bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bacterial Diversity Analysis during the Fermentation Processing of Traditional Chinese Yellow Rice Wine Revealed by 16S rDNA 454 Pyrosequencing
Authors: Fang Ruo‐si , Dong Ya‐chen , Chen Feng , Chen Qi‐he
Published: September 2015

Rice wine is a traditional Chinese fermented alcohol drink. Spontaneous fermentation with the use of the Chinese starter and wheat Qu lead to the growth of various microorganisms during the complete brewing process. It's of great importance to fully understand the composition of bacteria diversity in rice wine in order to improve the quality and solve safety problems. In this study, a more comprehensive bacterial description was shown with the use of bacteria diversity analysis, which enabled us to have a better understanding. Rarefaction, rank abundance, alpha Diversity, beta diversity and principal coordinates analysis simplified their complex bacteria components and provide us theoretical foundation for further investigation. It has been found bacteria diversity is more abundant at mid‐term and later stage of brewing process. Bacteria community analysis reveals there is a potential safety hazard existing in the fermentation, since most of the sequence reads are assigned to Enterobacter (7900 at most) and Pantoea (7336 at most), followed by Staphylococcus (2796 at most) and Pseudomonas (1681 at most). Lactic acid bacteria are rare throughout the fermentation process which is not in accordance with other reports. This work may offer us an opportunity to investigate micro ecological fermentation system in food industry.
Antioxidant Properties of Aqueous Extract of Roasted Hulled Barley in Bulk Oil or Oil‐in‐Water Emulsion Matrix
Authors: Oh Sumi , Kim Mi‐Ja , Park Kye Won , Lee Jae Hwan
Published: September 2015

Antioxidant properties of the aqueous extracts of hulled barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) that had been roasted at 210 °C for 20 min were determined in bulk oil and oil‐in‐water (O/W) emulsions. Bulk oils were heated at 60, 100, and 180 °C, and O/W emulsions were oxidized under riboflavin photosensitization. The content of phenolic compounds was analyzed by high‐performance liquid chromatography, and in vitro antioxidant assays were also conducted. The major phenolics contained in the aqueous extract of roasted hulled barley (AERB) were p‐coumaric, ferulic, protocatechuic, chlorogenic, 4‐hydroxybenzoic, and vanillic acids. Depending on the concentration and oxidation temperature, AERB had antioxidant or prooxidant properties in bulk oil. At 60 °C, AERB at a concentration of 0.5% acted as a prooxidant, whereas at 1.0% it acted as an antioxidant. At 100 °C, AERB acted as an antioxidant irrespective of concentration. In 180 °C conditions, 0.5% AERB acted as a prooxidant, whereas other concentrations of AERB acted as antioxidants. In the case of riboflavin photosensitized O/W emulsions, AERB showed antioxidant properties irrespective of concentration. Antioxidant abilities of AERB are affected by the food matrix, including bulk oil and O/W emulsions, and concentrations of AERB, even though diverse phenolic compounds may display high antioxidant properties in in vitro assays.
From self‐disclosure to prosocial behaviour: Feedback as a moderator
Authors: Song Xuan , Zhang Xin , Melloy Robert , Wang Fei , Zhan Hongliu , Wang Lei
Published: September 2015

Prosocial behaviours and their correlates have been extensively studied; however, few studies have examined the linkage between self‐disclosure and prosocial behaviours. Three studies were conducted aimed at examining the relationship between self‐disclosure and prosocial tendencies, as well as the moderating role of feedback from the help provider's perspective. We hypothesized that participants' self‐disclosure was positively associated with his/her prosocial tendencies and that this association would be moderated by feedback received. The results generally support our hypotheses, and reveal that participants with higher levels of self‐disclosure tend to exhibit more prosocial tendencies (Studies 1 and 2), but this association was only true for those participants that received self‐disclosure feedback (Study 3). The present study suggests that, other than self‐disclosure, reciprocal feedback also plays an important role in promoting prosocial behaviours.
Outcome in 212 anti‐Ro/SSA‐positive pregnancies and population‐based incidence of congenital heart block
Authors: Skog Amanda , Lagnefeldt Linda , Conner Peter , Wahren‐Herlenius Marie , Sonesson Sven‐Erik
Published: September 2015

Introduction

We investigated the effects of maternal autoimmune disease and fetal congenital heart block (CHB) on pregnancy outcomes in anti‐Ro/SSA‐positive women and assessed the population‐based incidence of isolated CHB.

Material and methods

One hundred and ninety nine anti‐Ro/SSA‐positive pregnancies were prospectively followed at our center (2000–2013). Seven fetuses developed atrioventricular block (AVB) II–III. In this period, another 13 anti‐Ro/SSA‐positive pregnancies were referred for fetal bradycardia, subsequently diagnosed with AVB II–III. Cesarean section rates, gestational age, body measurements at birth, and the incidence of CHB in these 212 pregnancies were analyzed in relation to fetal atrioventricular conduction and maternal diagnosis and compared with data from the Medical Birth Registry on 352 104 pregnancies in the Stockholm County.

Results

The prevalence of maternal systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and primary Sjögren's syndrome and the outcomes at birth were similar in normal conduction and AVB I cases. Only 1/20 AVB II–III cases (0/7 in the surveillance group) had a mother diagnosed with SLE, compared with 73/192 in cases with normal conduction or AVB I. Excluding cases with AVB II–III, SLE mothers more frequently delivered by cesarean section (31% vs. 20%, p < 0.05) and had a higher incidence of preterm birth (13% vs. 5.8%, p < 0.05) than the county population. Both SLE and primary Sjögren's syndrome mothers had a fourfold greater rate of growth‐retarded babies (10.11% vs. 2.2%, p < 0.001). The incidence of autoantibody‐related AVB II–III in Stockholm County was 1/23 300.

Conclusion

This study of CHB provides new information on the incidence of CHB and outcome of pregnancy in anti‐Ro/SSA‐positive women, which has clinical relevance when counseling rheumatic patients considering pregnancy.
Morphological features in eyes with endophthalmitis after cataract surgery – histopathology and optical coherence tomography assessment
Authors: Solborg Bjerrum Søren , Prause Jan Ulrik , Fuchs Josefine , la Cour Morten , Kiilgaard Jens F.
Published: September 2015

Purpose

To assess the ocular damage that occurs in eyes with postoperative endophthalmitis after cataract surgery (PE) based on optical coherence tomography (OCT) retinal scans of PE eyes and histological specimens of eyes removed due to PE.

Methods

Case–control study and case series. Fifty‐one patients who had previously developed PE were clinically examined with OCT scans of the retina of both eyes. Histological specimens of 10 removed PE eyes were studied.

Results

The OCT scans showed that PE eyes had a statistically significantly higher frequency of hyperdense elements on the internal limiting membrane (ILM) of the retina (14 eyes versus 3 eyes, p = 0.015) and a higher degree of retinal atrophy temporal to the fovea (13 eyes versus 1 eye, p = 0.013) compared to fellow eyes. The histopathological analyses showed the formation of epiretinal membranes, derangement of all retinal layers with a reduced number of nuclei in the nuclear layers, loss of photoreceptor outer segments and massive retinal gliosis.

Conclusions

Optical coherence tomography scans of the retina and histopathology analyses provide insights in the pathological process occurring in PE.
Predictors of the time to attain full oral feeding in late preterm infants
Authors: Jackson Bianca N. , Kelly Bronwen Noreen , McCann Clare Maria , Purdy Suzanne Carolyn
Published: September 2015

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine the factors that predict the timing and age at which preterm infants (born 32–36 weeks gestation) commenced and attained full oral feeding.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of medical records of 647 preterm infants born 2005–2011. Infants were from six neonatal intensive care units in New Zealand, all World Health Organisation Baby‐friendly Hospital Initiative accredited.

Results

Median time to the first oral feed offered was one day, and median time to the time of full oral feeding was 12 days. No infants attained full oral feeding before 33+3 weeks postmenstrual age. Gestational age, birthweight, medical conditions and location of the neonatal unit were significantly associated with the time taken to commence and attain full oral feeding.

Conclusion

This study highlights the factors that are associated with the rate at which late preterm infants commence oral feeding and progress to full oral feeding. These findings offer important considerations not only for clinical practice but also discharge planning given the preference for preterm infants reaching full oral feeds before discharge from hospital. Prospective experimental research is required to confirm infant, maternal and environmental factors that influence feeding milestones in late preterm infants.
Multiple pathological fractures and delayed union associated with lead exposure in a German Shepherd Dog
Authors: Cole G , Weigel J , Headrick A , Adams W , Biskup J
Published: September 2015

Case report

An 8‐year‐old 40.8‐kg intact male German Shepherd Dog was evaluated for bilateral antebrachial fractures.

Radiographs revealed osteopenia and comminuted proximal diaphyseal fractures of the left radius and ulna, and proximal articular fracture of the right ulna. A dual energy X‐ray absorptiometry scan confirmed decreased bone mineral density. Bone mineral analysis collected at the time of definitive surgical repair demonstrated high lead concentration. Analysis further demonstrated normal bone calcium and phosphorus concentrations. Serum lead concentration was normal.

The left radial and ulnar fractures were surgically stabilised with an external fixator. The right ulnar fracture was splinted. The left antebrachial fractures were palpably unstable at 12 weeks after surgery. Moderate callus formation and incomplete bone union were present at 17 weeks postoperatively. The dog was re‐presented 15 months later for right metacarpal and left metatarsal fractures, which were managed conservatively. Complete bone union of the right radial and ulnar fractures was not present at that time.

Conclusion

Excessive lead accumulation in bone should be considered as a differential diagnosis for increased susceptibility to pathologic fracture and delayed fracture healing in dogs.
In vitro activity of chloramphenicol, florfenicol and enrofloxacin againstChlamydia pecorumisolated from koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus)
Authors: Black LA , Higgins DP , Govendir M
Published: September 2015

Objective

To determine the in vitro susceptibilities of koala isolates ofChlamydia pecorumto enrofloxacin and chloramphenicol, which are frequently used to treat koalas with chlamydiosis, and florfenicol, a derivative of chloramphenicol.

Methods

The in vitro susceptibilities were determined by culturing three stored isolates and seven clinical swabs ofC. pecorum.Susceptibility testing was undertaken using cycloheximide‐treated buffalo green monkey kidney cells in 96 well microtitre plates.

Results

The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) for all isolates were 0.25–0.50 µg/mL (enrofloxacin), 1–2 µg/mL (chloramphenicol), and 1–2 µg/mL (florfenicol). Minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values for five isolates were also determined and were within one two‐fold dilution of MICs. The MICs and MBCs of these antimicrobials were within ranges previously reported for other chlamydial species.

Conclusion

When combined with previously published pharmacokinetic data, the in vitro susceptibility results support chloramphenicol as a more appropriate treatment option than enrofloxacin for koalas with chlamydiosis. The susceptibility results also indicate florfenicol may be an appropriate treatment option for koalas with chlamydiosis, warranting further investigation.
Comparative biometry and isotopy of three dominant pennatulacean corals in the Northwest Atlantic
Authors: Baillon Sandrine , English Matthew , Hamel Jean‐François , Mercier Annie
Published: September 2015

Spatial and temporal shifts in biometric features were examined in three common deep‐water pennatulacean corals (sea pens) from the Northwest Atlantic: Anthoptilum grandiflorum, Halipteris finmarchica and Pennatula aculeata. These three species show different morphological characters and adaptations to their environment. Analyses of colony length, ratio of peduncle to colony length, weight/length ratio, polyp size and density as well as sclerite shape, location and abundance indicate that their phenotype is modulated by environmental factors (e.g. food availability, currents and sediment type) and antipredator strategies. Moreover, the three species had different carbon and nitrogen stable isotope signatures that could be explain primarily by their different polyp diameters and colony shapes, suggesting that they rely on slightly different food sources (varying proportions of phytodetritus and zooplankton). Finally, sclerites were found only in H. finmarchica and P. aculeata and are not known to occur in A. grandiflorum, except for minute oval bodies inside the peduncle. The Mg/Ca ratio of sclerites differed between the two species and, for P. aculeata, among types of sclerites, evoking different biomineralization pathways related to their functional roles (structural support or defence). Overall, this study provides new information on the ecology of poorly known species, which are ubiquitous and suspected to play an important ecological role in deep‐water ecosystems.
Dissociating associative and motor aspects of action understanding: Processing of dual‐ended tools by 16‐month‐old infants
Authors: Ní Choisdealbha Áine , Westermann Gert , Dunn Kirsty , Reid Vincent
Published: September 2015

When learning about the functions of novel tools, it is possible that infants may use associative and motoric processes. This study investigated the ability of 16‐month‐olds to associate the orientation in which an actor held a dual‐function tool with the actor's prior demonstrated interest in one of two target objects, and their use of the tool on that target. The actors’ hand posture did not differ between conditions. The infants were shown stimuli in which two actors acted upon novel objects with a novel tool, each actor employing a different function of the tool. Using an eye‐tracker, infants’ looking time at images depicting the actors holding the tool in an orientation congruent or incongruent with the actor's goal was measured. Infants preferred to look at the specific part of the tool that was incongruent with the actor's goal. Results show that the association formed involves the specific part of the tool, the actor, and the object the actor acted upon, but not the orientation of the tool. The capacity to form such associations is demonstrated in this study in the absence of motor information that would allow 16‐month‐olds to generate a specific representation of how the tool should be held for each action via mirroring processes.
Morbidity after laparoscopic and open rectal cancer surgery: a comparative analysis of morbidity in octogenarians and younger patients
Authors: Landi F. , Vallribera F. , Rivera J. P. , Bertoli P. , Armengol M. , Espín E.
Published: September 2015

Aim

Although the oncological adequacy of laparoscopic rectal resection (LR) appears equivalent to open resection (OR), its benefit is controversial in the elderly. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of LR on morbidity and mortality in octogenarians.

Method

This was a retrospective analysis of all patients who underwent rectal surgery for cancer between 2003 and 2013 in a teaching hospital. The primary aim of the study was to assess the influence of surgical approach on mortality and morbidity of rectal resection in patients ≥ 80 years old. Regression analysis was performed to control the effect of covariables on the clinical outcome.

Results

Of 408 patients 203 were in the LR group and 205 in the OR group including 303 (74.3%) less than 80 years and 105 (25.7%) over 80 years. The mortality was lower in the LR group compared with the OR group for patients under 80 years (0% vs 4.6%; P = 0.049) and no different in the over 80 group (11.5% vs 9.4%; P = 0.859). In younger patients, the OR group showed longer hospital stay (9 vs 7 days; P < 0.001) and more complications (44.1% vs 29.8%; P = 0.042). Medical complications were more frequent in LR group than OR group octogenarians (40.4% vs 20.8%; P = 0.009) as well as grade C anastomotic leakage (13.8 vs 10.7; P = 0.041).

Conclusion

LR for rectal cancer showed clinical advantages in patients under 80 years and was as safe as OR in patients over 80 years, although the advantages of laparoscopic surgery were lost in the elderly group due to a higher rate of medical complications. OR may be an option in elderly patients with important comorbidities.
Ownership, Activism and Engagement: Institutional Investors as Active Owners
Authors: McNulty Terry , Nordberg Donald
Published: September 2015

Manuscript Type

Conceptual

Research Question/Issue

We research two questions: First, why do some institutional investors operate at a distance from organizations seemingly acting only to “exit” and “trade” shares, while others actively engage through various means of “voice”? Second, what processes and behaviour are associated with active ownership?

Research Findings/Insights

We develop the concept of active ownership by drawing on contrasting theories and images of ownership, identifying antecedents of active ownership and distinguishing between alternative processes of active ownership.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

Alternative pathways to active ownership contrast the distant, sometimes adversarial nature of shareholder activism with an engaged, collaborative relationship between investors and corporations. Few studies examine active ownership as a process of engagement and mutual exchange between parties taking a generally longer‐term perspective toward investment in the firm and its affairs. After modeling active ownership, we develop a research agenda of substantive issues ranging from market and institutional conditions, through investment organization and practice, to board and investor relations.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

Opening up the multidimensionality of engagement and relations between investors and corporations is crucial to promoting good corporate governance. Policymakers and practitioners require such knowledge when anticipating and developing adjustments to institutions of corporate governance.
Risk factors for MRSA colonization in dermatologic patients in Germany
Authors: Daeschlein Georg , von Podewils Sebastian , Bloom Tina , Assadian Ojan , Napp Matthias , Haase Hermann , Jünger Michael
Published: September 2015

Background and objectives

Detection of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) carriage requires well‐defined risk factors (RFs). Except for “chronic wounds”, RFs are mostly specified in national recommendations. To avoid ineffective and expensive screening, we divided the entity “wounds” into different categories and calculated further RFs in dermatologic patients.

Patients and Methods

After a surveillance period with general MRSA screening, we correlated MRSA results with wound categories and dermatologically relevant diagnoses. We analyzed the screening efficacy by adding potential new RFs.

Results

Ulcers (pressure, arterial, combined pressure/arterial ulcers, ulcers otherwise unclassified), type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM), and atopic dermatitis (AD) were significantly associated with MRSA carriage. Tumors (subgroup basal and squamous cell carcinoma) were also significantly associated with MRSA carriage but had a protective odds ratio. Differentiation of wound types did not provide added benefit. In all MRSA‐positive patients with chronic wounds, other RKI‐listed RFs or type 2 DM were found. Screening sensitivity was increased combining classic RFs (except wounds) with type 2 DM and AD.

Conclusions

In dermatologic patients, AD and type 2 DM were identified as new RFs. Distinct wound types were also found to be significant RFs, but differentiated screening offers no benefit. When screening patients according to national recommendations, excluding wounds but including type 2 DM and AD, there is no loss of sensitivity.
‘Participation’: a systematic review of language, definitions, and constructs used in intervention research with children with disabilities
Authors: Imms Christine , Adair Brooke , Keen Deb , Ullenhag Anna , Rosenbaum Peter , Granlund Mats
Published: September 2015

Aim

Improving participation of children with disabilities is a priority; however, the participation construct lacks clarity. This systematic review investigated how researchers defined ‘participation’ and the language used in participation intervention research.

Method

Nine health and education databases were searched for intervention studies of children with disabilities that included a participation outcome. Quantitative data were extracted using a customized form, and participation text data were extracted verbatim. Themes were derived using a thematic coding approach. These participation themes were applied to the outcome measures used in the included studies to compare participation language with the methods used to quantify participation changes.

Results

Of the 2257 articles retrieved, 25 were included in this review. Five participation themes and nine subthemes were developed. Two themes, attendance and involvement, were directly related to the participation construct. Three additional themes described related concepts: preferences, activity competence, and sense of self.

Interpretation

Attendance and involvement seem to describe the essence of the participation concept. The related themes may provide important avenues to enhance participation outcomes. This review highlighted the need for researchers to define the construct under investigation clearly and select measures carefully, as measurement choice is the mechanism through which the concept is operationalized in research.
Dental injuries sustained by high school athletes in the United States, from 2008/2009 through 2013/2014 academic years
Authors: Collins Christy L. , McKenzie Lara B. , Ferketich Amy K. , Andridge Rebecca , Xiang Huiyun , Comstock R. Dawn
Published: September 2015

Background/Aim

Risk of dental injuries is present in a variety of sports. Mouthguards are effective yet underutilized. This study aimed to estimate the rate of dental injuries among high school athletes and investigate the utilization of mouthguards across multiple high school sports.

Materials and Methods

Athlete exposure and dental injury data were collected during the 2008/2009 through 2013/2014 academic years from a large sample of high schools in the United States as part of the National High School Sports‐Related Injury Surveillance Study.

Results

There were 222 dental injuries sustained during 24 787 258 athlete exposures for a rate of 0.90 per 100 000 athlete exposures. The rate of dental injuries in competition (1.8) was three times higher than the rate in practice (0.6) (RR: 3.1, 95% CI: 2.3–4.0). Rates of dental injuries varied by sport with the highest rates in girls’ field hockey (3.9) and boys’ basketball (2.6). Dental injuries most commonly occurred as a result of contact with another player (61.3%) and contact with a playing apparatus (31.5%). For the majority of dental injuries, the athlete was not wearing a mouthguard (72.5%). Among injuries where athletes were wearing mouthguards, the majority were self‐fitted (95.9%).

Conclusions

Although dental injuries were relatively uncommon, the majority occurred while the athlete was not wearing a mouthguard. As previous studies have shown that mouthguards are effective in preventing injuries, all high school athletes participating in a sport that places them at risk of sustaining a dental injury should wear a mouthguard consistently in both competition and practice.
A global meta‐analysis of the relative extent of intraspecific trait variation in plant communities
Authors: Siefert Andrew , Violle Cyrille , Chalmandrier Loïc , Albert Cécile H. , Taudiere Adrien , Fajardo Alex , Aarssen Lonnie W. , Baraloto Christopher , Carlucci Marcos B. , Cianciaruso Marcus V. , de L. Dantas Vinícius , de Bello Francesco , Duarte Leandro D. S. , Fonseca Carlos R. , Freschet Grégoire T. , Gaucherand Stéphanie , Gross Nicolas , Hikosaka Kouki , Jackson Benjamin , Jung Vincent , Kamiyama Chiho , Katabuchi Masatoshi , Kembel Steven W. , Kichenin Emilie , Kraft Nathan J. B. , Lagerström Anna , Bagousse‐Pinguet Yoann Le , Li Yuanzhi , Mason Norman , Messier Julie , Nakashizuka Tohru , Overton Jacob McC. , Peltzer Duane A. , Pérez‐Ramos I. M. , Pillar Valério D. , Prentice Honor C. , Richardson Sarah , Sasaki Takehiro , Schamp Brandon S. , Schöb Christian , Shipley Bill , Sundqvist Maja , Sykes Martin T. , Vandewalle Marie , Wardle David A.
Published: September 2015

Recent studies have shown that accounting for intraspecific trait variation (ITV) may better address major questions in community ecology. However, a general picture of the relative extent of ITV compared to interspecific trait variation in plant communities is still missing. Here, we conducted a meta‐analysis of the relative extent of ITV within and among plant communities worldwide, using a data set encompassing 629 communities (plots) and 36 functional traits. Overall, ITV accounted for 25% of the total trait variation within communities and 32% of the total trait variation among communities on average. The relative extent of ITV tended to be greater for whole‐plant (e.g. plant height) vs. organ‐level traits and for leaf chemical (e.g. leaf N and P concentration) vs. leaf morphological (e.g. leaf area and thickness) traits. The relative amount of ITV decreased with increasing species richness and spatial extent, but did not vary with plant growth form or climate. These results highlight global patterns in the relative importance of ITV in plant communities, providing practical guidelines for when researchers should include ITV in trait‐based community and ecosystem studies.
Geographic variation of color polymorphism in two sibling ladybird species,Harmonia yedoensisandH. axyridis(Coleoptera:Coccinellidae)
Authors: Noriyuki Suzuki , Osawa Naoya
Published: September 2015

Geographical variation of elytra color pattern in two sibling ladybird species,Harmonia yedoensisandH. axyridis(Coleoptera:Coccinellidae), was examined. The two species are distributed sympatrically in centralJapan; however, onlyH. yedoensisandH. axyridisoccur in theRyukyuIslands (southernJapan) andHokkaido island (northernJapan), respectively. The frequency of elytra color patterns was significantly different between the two species in all sympatric locations and our results were inconsistent with the classical theory onMüllerian mimicry. The most dominant pattern ofH. axyridiswas the least dominant ofH. yedoensisin all sympatric populations. Furthermore, the frequency of the non‐melanic form (red ground color with or without black spots) increased towards the south inH. yedoensis. This tendency was in contrast to the known geographical cline inH. axyridisin which the melanic form (black ground color with red spots) was gradually displaced with the non‐melanic form northwards in theJapanese archipelago. We discuss possible selective factors including predator avoidance, thermal adaptation and reproductive character displacement, all of which might contribute to the maintenance of the color polymorphism in the twoHarmoniaspecies.
Theoretical study of the reaction mechanism of phenolic acid decarboxylase
Authors: Sheng Xiang , Lind Maria E.S. , Himo Fahmi
Published: September 2015

The cofactor‐free phenolic acid decarboxylases (PADs) catalyze the non‐oxidative decarboxylation of phenolic acids to their corresponding p‐vinyl derivatives. Phenolic acids are toxic to some organisms, and a number of them have evolved the ability to transform these compounds, including PAD‐catalyzed reactions. Since the vinyl derivative products can be used as polymer precursors and are also of interest in the food‐processing industry, PADs might have potential applications as biocatalysts. We have investigated the detailed reaction mechanism of PAD from Bacillus subtilis using quantum chemical methodology. A number of different mechanistic scenarios have been considered and evaluated on the basis of their energy profiles. The calculations support a mechanism in which a quinone methide intermediate is formed by protonation of the substrate double bond, followed by C–C bond cleavage. A different substrate orientation in the active site is suggested compared to the literature proposal. This suggestion is analogous to other enzymes with p‐hydroxylated aromatic compounds as substrates, such as hydroxycinnamoyl‐CoA hydratase‐lyase and vanillyl alcohol oxidase. Furthermore, on the basis of the calculations, a different active site residue compared to previous proposals is suggested to act as the general acid in the reaction. The mechanism put forward here is consistent with the available mutagenesis experiments and the calculated energy barrier is in agreement with measured rate constants. The detailed mechanistic understanding developed here might be extended to other members of the family of PAD‐type enzymes. It could also be useful to rationalize the recently developed alternative promiscuous reactivities of these enzymes.
Dominance of ‘Gallionella capsiferriformans’ and heavy metal association with Gallionella‐like stalks in metal‐rich pH 6 mine water discharge
Authors: Fabisch M. , Freyer G. , Johnson C. A. , Büchel G. , Akob D. M. , Neu T. R. , Küsel K.
Published: September 2015

Heavy metal‐contaminated, pH 6 mine water discharge created new streams and iron‐rich terraces at a creek bank in a former uranium‐mining area near Ronneburg, Germany. The transition from microoxic groundwater with ~5 mm Fe(II) to oxic surface water may provide a suitable habitat for microaerobic iron‐oxidizing bacteria (FeOB). In this study, we investigated the potential contribution of these FeOB to iron oxidation and metal retention in this high‐metal environment. We (i) identified and quantified FeOB in water and sediment at the outflow, terraces, and creek, (ii) studied the composition of biogenic iron oxides (Gallionella‐like twisted stalks) with scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM, TEM) as well as confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), and (iii) examined the metal distribution in sediments. Using quantitative PCR, a very high abundance of FeOB was demonstrated at all sites over a 6‐month study period. Gallionella spp. clearly dominated the communities, accounting for up to 88% of Bacteria, with a minor contribution of other FeOB such as Sideroxydans spp. and ‘Ferrovum myxofaciens’. Classical 16S rRNA gene cloning showed that 96% of the Gallionella‐related sequences had ≥97% identity to the putatively metal‐tolerant ‘Gallionella capsiferriformans ES‐2’, in addition to known stalk formers such as Gallionella ferruginea and Gallionellaceae strain R‐1. Twisted stalks from glass slides incubated in water and sediment were composed of the Fe(III) oxyhydroxide ferrihydrite, as well as polysaccharides. SEM and scanning TEM‐energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy revealed that stalk material contained Cu and Sn, demonstrating the association of heavy metals with biogenic iron oxides and the potential for metal retention by these stalks. Sequential extraction of sediments suggested that Cu (52–61% of total sediment Cu) and other heavy metals were primarily bound to the iron oxide fractions. These results show the importance of ‘G. capsiferriformans’ and biogenic iron oxides in slightly acidic but highly metal‐contaminated freshwater environments.
Short‐ and long‐term effects of tracking devices on the European Roller Coracias garrulus
Authors: Rodríguez‐Ruiz J. , Parejo D. , de la Puente J. , Valera F. , Calero‐Torralbo M. A. , Bermejo A. , Catry I. , Avilés J. M.
Published: September 2015

Tracking devices have contributed enormously to our knowledge of avian migration, although their effects on birds are controversial. Here, we study the short‐ and long‐term effects of deploying geolocators on European Rollers Coracias garrulus and assess the optimal weight of tracking devices to use. In nests in which both parents had geolocators, brood mass was lighter than in nests where only one or neither parent had a geolocator. The year‐to‐year recapture rate for Rollers tagged with geolocators was lower than that for control birds and the recapture rate in different populations was negatively related to the device‐to‐bird weight ratio, decreasing greatly when the weight ratio exceeded 2.5%.
Fabrication of Ag–SnO2 Contact Materials from Gas‐Atomized Ag–Sn Powder Using Combined Oxidation and Ball‐Milling Process
Authors: Choi Sang‐Hoon , Ali Basit , Kim Song‐Yi , Hyun Soong‐Keun , Seo Suk‐Jun , Park Kyoung‐Tae , Kim Bum‐Sung , Kim Taek‐Soo , Park Jun Sung
Published: September 2015

Silver–tin oxide (Ag–SnO2) is considered to be an effective alternative to silver–cadmium oxide (Ag–CdO), which is carcinogenic and, therefore, toxic to the human body. In this study, Ag–SnO2 powder was prepared through a combined oxidation and ball‐milling process using gas‐atomized Ag–Sn powder. During oxidation, the Ag3Sn phase disappeared at 800°C and SnO2 was formed without Ag oxidation; this SnO2 formed a layer structure that covered the Ag matrix. The thickness of the oxide layer increased after the composite was subjected to a second oxidation process. Owing to the resultant core (Ag)‐shell (SnO2) structure, the electrical conductivity of the fabricated composite was considerably lower than that of commercially available materials. However, the electrical conductivity increased remarkably after ball milling of the samples, which allowed the SnO2 surface layer to be peeled off and crushed. Following high‐pressure magnetic pulsed compaction, the SnO2 was found to be homogeneously distributed in the Ag matrix, which exhibited a lamellar structure.
Infant food preparations from cowpea, coconut and soybean
Authors: AKINYELE I. O. , ADESINA A.
Published: September 2015

Composition and sensory properties of ‘milk’ extracted from cowpea (Vigna unguiculata), coconut (Cocus nucifera) and soybean (Glycine max) were compared with Frisolac (a commercial infant formula), cow's milk and human milk. Cowpea milk and soybean milk were higher in nutrients than cow or human milk and Frisolac except for calcium and energy. The flavour of the products were rated acceptable. There were no differences in the flavours but the odours and colours of the milks were significantly different (P < 0.05).
Release of metals from soya products by the action of some gastric and intestinal enzymes
Authors: ROBE P. , WILLIAMS D. R. , CREWS H. M. , McWEENY D. J.
Published: September 2015

Measurements have been made of the amount of calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, copper, manganese and nickel released into solution from three types of soya product prior to, and following the use of, in vitro enzymatic degradation procedures. The amount of solubilized metal has been shown to depend upon the enzymes used, the metal under consideration, the pH and the type of soya being studied. Such experiments may help to improve understanding of the behaviour of metals released from soya by the action of enzymes in the gastro‐intestinal tract.
Functional Principal Component Regression and Functional Partial Least‐squares Regression: An Overview and a Comparative Study
Authors: Febrero‐Bande Manuel , Galeano Pedro , González‐Manteiga Wenceslao
Published: September 2015

Functional data analysis is a field of growing importance in Statistics. In particular, the functional linear model with scalar response is surely the model that has attracted more attention in both theoretical and applied research. Two of the most important methodologies used to estimate the parameters of the functional linear model with scalar response are functional principal component regression and functional partial least‐squares regression. We provide an overview of estimation methods based on these methodologies and discuss their advantages and disadvantages. We emphasise that the role played by the functional principal components and by the functional partial least‐squares components that are used in estimation appears to be very important to estimate the functional slope of the model. A functional version of the best subset selection strategy usual in multiple linear regression is also analysed. Finally, we present an extensive comparative simulation study to compare the performance of all the considered methodologies that may help practitioners in the use of the functional linear model with scalar response.
Building qualitative study design using nursing's disciplinary epistemology
Authors: Thorne Sally , Stephens Jennifer , Truant Tracy
Published: September 2015

Aim

To discuss the implications of drawing on core nursing knowledge as theoretical scaffolding for qualitative nursing enquiry.

Background

Although nurse scholars have been using qualitative methods for decades, much of their methodological direction derives from conventional approaches developed for answering questions in the social sciences. The quality of available knowledge to inform practice can be enhanced through the selection of study design options informed by an appreciation for the nature of nursing knowledge.

Design

Discussion paper.

Data sources

Drawing on the body of extant literature dealing with nursing's theoretical and qualitative research traditions, we consider contextual factors that have shaped the application of qualitative research approaches in nursing, including prior attempts to align method with the structure and form of disciplinary knowledge. On this basis, we critically reflect on design considerations that would follow logically from core features associated with a nursing epistemology.

Implications for nursing

The substantive knowledge used by nurses to inform their practice includes both aspects developed at the level of the general and also that which pertains to application in the unique context of the particular. It must be contextually relevant to a fluid and dynamic healthcare environment and adaptable to distinctive patient conditions. Finally, it must align with nursing's moral mandate and action imperative.

Conclusion

Qualitative research design components informed by nursing's disciplinary epistemology will help ensure a logical line of reasoning in our enquiries that remains true to the nature and structure of practice knowledge.
Lipid‐lowering agents use and systemic and oral inflammation in overweight or obese adult Puerto Ricans: the San Juan Overweight Adults Longitudinal Study (SOALS)
Authors: Andriankaja Oelisoa M. , Jiménez James J. , Muñoz‐Torres Francisco J. , Pérez Cynthia M. , Vergara José L. , Joshipura Kaumudi J.
Published: September 2015

The effects of lipid‐lowering agents (LLA) on reducing systemic and oral inflammation have not been evaluated.

Objective

To assess the association of LLA use with high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP) and oral inflammation.

Design

Cross‐sectional analysis using baseline data from 1300 overweight/obese participants aged 40–65 years, recruited for the ongoing San Juan Overweight Adults Longitudinal Study. Serum hs‐CRP was measured by ELISA, gingival/periodontal inflammation was evaluated as bleeding upon probing (BOP), and LLA was self‐reported. Separate logistic models were performed for systemic and oral inflammation.

Results

In all, 24% participants reported history of dyslipidaemia, of which, 50.3% self‐reported LLA use. Sixty percent of the participants had elevated hs‐CRP (>3 mg/dl) and 50% had high BOP (defined as at or above the median: 21%). After adjusting for age, gender, smoking, HDL‐C, physical activity, diabetes, blood pressure medications, and percent body fat composition, LLA users had significantly lower odds of elevated hs‐CRP compared to LLA non‐users (OR = 0.58; 95% CI: 0.39–0.85). After adjusting for age, gender, smoking status, educational level, mean plaque index and percent body fat, LLA users had significantly lower odds of high BOP compared to LLA non‐users (OR = 0.62; 95% CI: 0.42–0.91).

Conclusions

Lipid‐lowering agents may reduce both systemic and oral inflammatory responses.
Site‐specific treatment outcome in smokers following non‐surgical and surgical periodontal therapy
Authors: Bunæs Dagmar F. , Lie Stein Atle , Enersen Morten , Aastrøm Anne Nordrehaug , Mustafa Kamal , Leknes Knut N.
Published: September 2015

Aim

To evaluate the effect of smoking at patient, tooth, and site level following non‐surgical and surgical periodontal therapy.

Material and Methods

Eighty chronic periodontitis patients, 40 smokers and 40 non‐smokers, were recruited to this single‐arm clinical trial. Smoking status was validated by measuring serum cotinine levels. Periodontal examinations were performed at baseline (T0) and 3 months following non‐surgical and surgical periodontal therapy (T1). At T0 and T1, subgingival plaque samples were collected from the deepest periodontal pocket in each patient and analysed using checkerboard DNA–DNA hybridization. Probing depth (PD) ≥ 5 mm with bleeding on probing (BoP) was defined as the primary outcome. Unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression analyses, corrected for clustered observations within patients and teeth, were conducted comparing smokers with non‐smokers.

Results

Clinical parameters significantly improved in both groups (p < 0.001). An association was revealed between smoking and PD ≥ 5 mm with BoP (OR= 1.90, CI: 1.14, 3.15, p = 0.013), especially for plaque‐positive sites (OR= 4.14, CI: 2.16, 7.96, p < 0.001). A significant reduction of red complex microbiota was observed for non‐smokers only (p = 0.010).

Conclusion

Smokers respond less favourably to non‐surgical and surgical periodontal therapy compared with non‐smokers, in particular at plaque‐positive sites.
The genomic bases of morphological divergence and reproductive isolation driven by ecological speciation in Senecio (Asteraceae)
Authors: Chapman M. A. , Hiscock S. J. , Filatov D. A.
Published: September 2015

Ecological speciation, driven by adaptation to contrasting environments, provides an attractive opportunity to study the formation of distinct species, and the role of selection and genomic divergence in this process. Here, we focus on a particularly clear‐cut case of ecological speciation to reveal the genomic bases of reproductive isolation and morphological differences between closely related Senecio species, whose recent divergence within the last ~200 000 years was likely driven by the uplift of Mt. Etna (Sicily). These species form a hybrid zone, yet remain morphologically and ecologically distinct, despite active gene exchange. Here, we report a high‐density genetic map of the Senecio genome and map hybrid breakdown to one large and several small quantitative trait loci (QTL). Loci under diversifying selection cluster in three 5 cM regions which are characterized by a significant increase in relative (FST), but not absolute (dXY), interspecific differentiation. They also correspond to some of the regions of greatest marker density, possibly corresponding to ‘cold‐spots’ of recombination, such as centromeres or chromosomal inversions. Morphological QTL for leaf and floral traits overlap these clusters. We also detected three genomic regions with significant transmission ratio distortion (TRD), possibly indicating accumulation of intrinsic genetic incompatibilities between these recently diverged species. One of the TRD regions overlapped with a cluster of high species differentiation, and another overlaps the large QTL for hybrid breakdown, indicating that divergence of these species may have occurred due to a complex interplay of ecological divergence and accumulation of intrinsic genetic incompatibilities.
Does plasticity enhance or dampen phenotypic parallelism? A test with three lake–stream stickleback pairs
Authors: Oke K. B. , Bukhari M. , Kaeuffer R. , Rolshausen G. , Räsänen K. , Bolnick D. I. , Peichel C. L. , Hendry A. P.
Published: September 2015

Parallel (and convergent) phenotypic variation is most often studied in the wild, where it is difficult to disentangle genetic vs. environmentally induced effects. As a result, the potential contributions of phenotypic plasticity to parallelism (and nonparallelism) are rarely evaluated in a formal sense. Phenotypic parallelism could beenhancedby plasticity that causes stronger parallelism across populations in the wild than would be expected from genetic differences alone. Phenotypic parallelism could bedampenedif site‐specific plasticity induced differences between otherwise genetically parallel populations. We used a common‐garden study of three independent lake–stream stickleback population pairs to evaluate the extent to which adaptive divergence has a genetic or plastic basis, and to investigate the enhancing vs. dampening effects of plasticity on phenotypic parallelism. We found that lake–stream differences in most traits had a genetic basis, but that several traits also showed contributions from plasticity. Moreover, plasticity was much more prevalent in one watershed than in the other two. In most cases, plasticity enhanced phenotypic parallelism, whereas in a few cases, plasticity had a dampening effect. Genetic and plastic contributions to divergence seem to play a complimentary, likely adaptive, role in phenotypic parallelism of lake–stream stickleback. These findings highlight the value of formally comparing wild‐caught and laboratory‐reared individuals in the study of phenotypic parallelism.
Inflammatory bowel disease on the risk of acute pancreatitis: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Chen Yu‐Tso , Su Jiann‐Sheng , Tseng Chih‐Wei , Chen Chia‐Chang , Lin Cheng‐Li , Kao Chia‐Hung
Published: September 2015

Background and Aims:

To determine whether inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) influences the risk of acute pancreatitis.

Methods:

We identified 11 909 patients diagnosed with IBD between 2000 and 2010 from Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database as the study cohort. A comparison cohort comprised 47 636 age‐matched patients without IBD. Both cohorts were followed‐up until the end of 2010 or until being censored. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to study the effects of IBD on the risks of acute pancreatitis.

Results:

The overall incidence of acute pancreatitis was 3.56‐fold higher in the study cohort than in the comparison cohort (31.8 vs 8.91 per 10 000 person‐years, crude hazard ratio [HR] = 3.56, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.96–4.28). After adjustment for age, sex, and comorbidities, namely alcohol‐related disease, biliary stone, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes mellitus, obesity, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, hypertriglyceridemia, cardiovascular diseases, chronic kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and hypercalcemia, the adjusted HR for acute pancreatitis was 2.93‐fold higher (95% CI = 2.40–3.58) in the study cohort than in the comparison cohort.

Conclusions:

IBD is a risk factor for acute pancreatitis. © 2015 Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Foundation and Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd