bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimisation of process parameters to develop nutritionally rich spray‐dried honey powder with vitamin C content and antioxidant properties
Authors: Suhag Yogita , Nanda Vikas
Published: May 2015

The aim of present research was to optimise the conditions to develop nutritionally rich honey powder using honey, whey protein concentrate (WPC), aonla (Emblica officinalis. Gaertn) and basil (Ocimum sanctum) extract with the help of co‐current spray drier. Response surface methodology was applied to study the effects of inlet temperature (160–180 °C), whey protein concentrate (25–35%), feed flow rate (0.08–0.13 mL s−1), aonla extract (6–8%) and basil extract (6–8%) on product responses, viz. bulk density, hygroscopicity, antioxidant activity (AOA), total phenolic content (TPC) and vitamin C. Statistical analysis revealed that independent variables significantly affected all the responses. The results demonstrated that increasing inlet temperature lowered the bulk density, hygroscopicity, AOA, TPC and vitamin C, whereas addition of aonla extract and basil extract increased the AOA (82.73%), TPC (63.27%) and total vitamin C content (94.89%) as these functional compounds were encapsulated by WPC. Similarly, with increase in feed flow rate and WPC, there was increase and decrease in the bulk density and hygroscopicity, respectively. The recommended optimum spray‐drying conditions were inlet air temperature (170 °C), feed rate (0.11 mL s−1), whey protein concentrate (35%), aonla (8%) and basil extract (6%).
Effect of instant controlled pressure drop process on some physicochemical and nutritional properties of snacks produced from chickpea and wheat
Authors: Yağcı Sibel , Evci Tuba
Published: May 2015

The chickpea and wheat seeds were processed using laboratory‐scale equipment of instant controlled pressure drop process (DIC) to produce nutritious snack products. In this study, we present the results concerning the effect of various DIC‐processing variables, moisture content, steam pressure and processing time on some physicochemical (water absorption (WAI) and water solubility (WSI) indices) and nutritional properties (total phenolic and phytic acid contents, starch gelatinisation and digestibility values). Among the DIC‐processing conditions, processing pressure and time had the highest significance rather than the moisture content. DIC process increased the total phenolic content of chickpea by approximately twofold, whereas it usually decreased in that of wheat. Severe processing conditions such as long processing time and high steam pressures generally led to an increase in WAI, WSI and starch gelatinisation as well as phenolic content, but a decrease in the antinutritional factor of phytic acid content within the working limit of the study. DIC treatment significantly increased the level of starch gelatinisation and digestibility of snack products.
Phytochemicals and quality characteristics of candied paprika (Capsicum annuum L.) during storage
Authors: Kim Suna , Park Jihyun , Moon BoKyung
Published: May 2015

In this study, we prepared candied paprika from various coloured fresh paprika and compared the changes in phytochemicals and quality for 42 days by analysing carotenoids, ascorbic acids and total phenolic content, and by assessing sensory and instrumental qualities. We identified five types of carotenoids from candied red paprika (CRP) and three from candied orange paprika (COP) and candied yellow paprika (CYP). At 0‐day storage, capsanthin and β‐carotene in CRP were quantitatively analysed to 26.96 μg g−1 fw and 3.81 μg g−1 fw, zeaxanthin and β‐carotene in COP were 9.35 μg g−1 fw and 4.16 μg g−1 fw, and lutein and β‐carotene in CYP were 0.27 μg 100 g−1 fw and 0.70 μg 100 g−1 fw, respectively. After 42‐days storage, CRP retained approximately 68.6% carotenoids, COP retained 40%, and CYP retained 33%. Ascorbic acid and total phenolic content decreased during storage as carotenoids did. However, rates of decrease were different in different coloured paprika, especially, ascorbic acid in COP and phenolic acid in CRP were considerably conserved for 42 days. Hardness, springiness and chewiness in all samples were significantly increased by 14‐days storage and maintained until 42‐days storage, and all the sensory parameters, including colour, appearance, odour, texture, paprika flavour and overall consumer preference showed no differences until 28 days.
Effects of genotype and growing locations on properties of wheat starch gels
Authors: Nhan Minh Tri , Copeland Les
Published: May 2015

This study examines the contributions of genotype and the effects of growing location and storage to variability in the strength, syneresis and in vitro enzyme digestibility of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) starch gels. The study involved starch that was extracted from five wheat varieties grown in four locations. Length of storage at 4 °C after hydrothermal treatment of the starch accounted for 30–50% of the variance in the three gel properties. Genotype contributed significantly to variability in syneresis and enzyme digestibility of the starch gels, indicating a degree of heritability of these characteristics in the wheat varieties studied. Gel strength was strongly influenced by effects from the growing location. Syneresis and enzyme‐resistant starch were negatively correlated with granule size and swelling power of native starch. Syneresis was also correlated negatively with pasting viscosities of starch granules, and positively with amylose content and pasting temperature. Gel strength was correlated positively with relative crystallinity and negatively with the breakdown of peak viscosity. Length of storage had a major influence on gel strength, syneresis and in vitro enzyme digestibility, although genotype contributed significantly to variability in syneresis and enzyme‐digestibility. Growing conditions were a significant influence on gel strength.
Production of Agaricus brasiliensis mycelium from food industry residues as a source of antioxidants and essential fatty acids
Authors: Mokochinski João B. , López Begoña G. C. , Sovrani Vanessa , Dalla Santa Herta S. , González‐Borrero Pedro Pablo , Sawaya Alexandra Christine Helena F. , Schmidt Eduardo M. , Eberlin Marcos N. , Torres Yohandra R.
Published: May 2015

Agaricus brasiliensis is a medicinal mushroom traditionally employed in prevention and treatment of cancer, used as immunostimulant and as a source of antioxidants. We investigated the chemical composition of the mycelium produced by submerged (SF) and solid‐state fermentation (SSF), using residues from food industry as substrates. After fermentation, antiradical activity and levels of antioxidants were enhanced, indicating that the micro‐organism produces these metabolites. For myceliated substrate (mushroom mycelia grown around and into the substrate particles) obtained by SSF, phenolics ranged from 18.57 to 70.46 mg g−1 and flavonoids from 0.83 to 4.51 mg g−1. For myceliated substrate obtained by SF, the variation was 27.19 to 66.99 mg g−1 and 0.75 to 5.34 mg g−1 for phenolics and flavonoids, respectively. The fatty acid profile determined by FT‐ICR MS and UPLC‐MS showed predominance of palmitic, linoleic, linolenic and oleic acids. Our findings indicated that mycelium has nutraceutical potential and can be incorporated in food supplements.
Characteristics of collagen from the skin of clown featherback (Chitala ornata)
Authors: Kittiphattanabawon Phanat , Benjakul Soottawat , Sinthusamran Sittichoke , Kishimura Hideki
Published: May 2015

Acid soluble collagen (ASC) and pepsin soluble collagen (PSC) from the skin of clown featherback (Chitala ornata) were isolated and characterised. Yields of ASC and PSC were 27.64 and 44.63% (dry weight basis) with total collagen recovery of 82.08%. Both collagens contained glycine as the major amino acid with relatively high content of proline, hydroxyproline and glutamic acid/glutamine. Nevertheless, they had the low content of cysteine, histidine and tryrosine. The collagen was characterised as type I, comprising (α1)2α2‐heterotrimer. Pepsin‐aided process did not affect triple‐helical structure of PSC as determined by FTIR spectra. Thermal transition temperature of ASC (36.28 °C) was slightly higher than that of PSC (35.23 °C). However, no differences in isoelectric point (5.54–5.68) between ASC and PSC were observed. Therefore, collagen from the skin of clown featherback could be successfully extracted for further applications.
Thermal stability and transition temperatures of monovalent salts of high‐acyl gellan gels
Authors: Murillo‐Martínez María M. , Tecante Alberto
Published: May 2015

Thermogravimetry/derivative thermogravimetry (TG/DTG), rheometry and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) were used to study the thermal stability and determine the transition temperatures of the sodium and potassium salts of high‐acyl gellan (HAG) in the presence of 0–100 mm NaCl and KCl, respectively. TG/DTG revealed the potassium gellan (KHAG) gels to be more stable than those of sodium gellan (NaHAG), regardless of external cation concentration. Rheometry and DSC showed the melting (Tm) and gelling (Tg) temperatures to increase with cation concentration. The DSC peak temperatures showed thermal hysteresis contrary to rheometry. In most cases, DSC revealed KHAG to exhibit higher Tm and Tg than NaHAG. Consequently, thermal characteristics of NaHAG and KHAG gels depend on the size of the external cation and its ability to coordinate water molecules. Cation salts of HAG exhibit significantly lower transition temperatures than the commercial preparation from which they were produced.
Influenza surveillance in Europe: comparing intensity levels calculated using the moving epidemic method
Authors: Vega Tomás , Lozano José E. , Meerhoff Tamara , Snacken René , Beauté Julien , Jorgensen Pernille , Ortiz de Lejarazu Raúl , Domegan Lisa , Mossong Joël , Nielsen Jens , Born Rita , Larrauri Amparo , Brown Caroline
Published: May 2015

Objectives

Although influenza‐like illnesses (ILI) and acute respiratory illnesses (ARI) surveillance are well established in Europe, the comparability of intensity among countries and seasons remains an unresolved challenge. The objective is to compare the intensity of ILI and ARI in some European countries.

Design and setting

Weekly ILI and ARI incidence rates and proportion of primary care consultations were modeled in 28 countries for the 1996/1997–2013/2014 seasons using the moving epidemic method (MEM). We calculated the epidemic threshold and three intensity thresholds, which delimit five intensity levels: baseline, low, medium, high, and very high. The intensity of 2013/2014 season is described and compared by country.

Results

The lowest ILI epidemic thresholds appeared in Sweden and Estonia (below 10 cases per 100 000) and the highest in Belgium, Denmark, Hungary, Poland, Serbia, and Slovakia (above 100 per 100 000). The 2009/2010 season was the most intense, with 35% of the countries showing high or very high intensity levels. The European epidemic period in season 2013/2014 started in January 2014 in Spain, Poland, and Greece. The intensity was between low and medium and only Greece reached the high intensity level, in weeks 7 to 9/2014. Some countries remained at the baseline level throughout the entire surveillance period.

Conclusions

Epidemic and intensity thresholds varied by country. Influenza‐like illnesses and ARI levels normalized by MEM in 2013/2014 showed that the intensity of the season in Europe was between low and medium in most of the countries. Comparing intensity among seasons or countries is essential for understanding patterns in seasonal epidemics. An automated standardized model for comparison should be implemented at national and international levels.
Spatial segregation and realized niche shift during the parallel invasion of two olive subspecies in south‐eastern Australia
Authors: Cornuault Josselin , Khimoun Aurélie , Cuneo Peter , Besnard Guillaume
Published: May 2015

Aim

Greater understanding of the processes underlying biological invasions is required to determine and predict invasion risk. Two subspecies of olive (Olea europaea subsp. europaea and Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata) have been introduced into Australia from the Mediterranean Basin and southern Africa during the 19th century. Our aim was to determine to what extent the native environmental niches of these two olive subspecies explain the current spatial segregation of the subspecies in their non‐native range. We also assessed whether niche shifts had occurred in the non‐native range, and examined whether invasion was associated with increased or decreased occupancy of niche space in the non‐native range relative to the native range.

Location

South‐eastern Australia, Mediterranean Basin and southern Africa.

Methods

Ecological niche models (ENMs) were used to quantify the similarity of native and non‐native realized niches. Niche shifts were characterized by the relative contribution of niche expansion, stability and contraction based on the relative occupancy of environmental space by the native and non‐native populations.

Results

Native ENMs indicated that the spatial segregation of the two subspecies in their non‐native range was partly determined by differences in their native niches. However, we found that environmentally suitable niches were less occupied in the non‐native range relative to the native range, indicating that niche shifts had occurred through a contraction of the native niches after invasion, for both subspecies.

Main conclusions

The mapping of environmental factors associated with niche expansion, stability or contraction allowed us to identify areas of greater invasion risk. This study provides an example of successful invasions that are associated with niche shifts, illustrating that introduced plant species are sometimes readily able to establish in novel environments. In these situations the assumption of niche stasis during invasion, which is implicitly assumed by ENMs, may be unreasonable.
Consideration of dispersal processes and northern refugia can improve our understanding of past plant migration rates in North America
Authors: Snell Rebecca S. , Cowling Sharon A.
Published: May 2015

Aim

According to the palynological record, rapid plant migrations following the retreat of the last glacier were common in North America and Europe. However, providing an explanation for these rapid migration rates has been challenging considering modern‐day seed dispersal distances. We used the newly developed seed dispersal functionality in a hybrid dynamic global vegetation model (DGVM) to simulate two theories that have been proposed to explain rapid plant migrations: long‐distance seed dispersal and northern refugial populations.

Location

Idealized landscapes representing temperate and boreal regions of North America.

Methods

Vegetation migration rates for three species (Acer rubrum, Fagus grandifolia and Picea glauca) were simulated in response to climate change across a landscape. All simulations included long‐distance seed dispersal; however, we compared landscape colonization rates both with and without the presence of northern refugial populations.

Results

For all three species, the colonization rates were faster when there was a northern refugial population. Increasing the number of locations of refugia further increased the rate of landscape colonization, and this was most effective when refugial populations were spatially separated. The perceived migration rates (i.e. the time it took to spread the furthest distance away from the southern refugium) were approximately twice as fast when a refugium was present. For example, A. rubrum had a perceived migration rate of 119 m yr−1 without refugia and a perceived migration rate of 204 m yr−1 with a northern refugium.

Main conclusions

The simulated migration rates that matched the rapid migration rates observed in the pollen record for Acer were only achieved when both long‐distance dispersal and northern refugial populations were included in the simulations. Even with refugial populations, migration rates for P. glauca and F. grandifolia were slower than historical rates. The results of this study are consistent with the hypothesis that plant migration rates calculated from the pollen record overestimate the ability of most species to track rapid climate change.
The Economic Development Role of Regional Logistics Hubs: A Cross‐Country Study of Interorganizational Governance Models
Authors: Bolumole Yemisi A. , Closs David J. , Rodammer Frederick A.
Published: May 2015

As global competition intensifies, the geographic fragmentation of supply chain activities is creating a concentration of trade at regional freight gateways or hubs. This has significant implications for the economic prosperity of the specific gateway regions. The study explores the deliberate governance efforts of regional economic development agencies and the communities they support in their attempts to exploit location‐specific logistics assets to deliver economic productivity gains. Drawing on the new institutional economics’ body of literature, the research explores prevalent governance models which represent the proactive attempts by these agencies to transform regional logistics capability into cohesive hub strategies. By adopting exploratory cluster‐mapping procedures, web content analysis, and Delphi panels, study findings suggest a typology of multijurisdiction, and multiagency governance models representing the collaborative efforts between public sector and government agencies, academic institutions, and private sector organizations within selected European and U.S. logistics hubs. Each governance type is defined in accordance to specific economic organization and proficiency characteristics.
N‐acetyl‐l‐tryptophan, but not N‐acetyl‐d‐tryptophan, rescues neuronal cell death in models of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Sirianni Ana C. , Jiang Jiying , Zeng Jiang , Mao Lilly L. , Zhou Shuanhu , Sugarbaker Peter , Zhang Xinmu , Li Wei , Friedlander Robert M. , Wang Xin
Published: May 2015

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive motor neuron loss. Evidence suggests that mitochondrial dysfunction, apoptosis, oxidative stress, inflammation, glutamate excitotoxicity, and proteasomal dysfunction are all responsible for ALS pathogenesis. N‐acetyl‐tryptophan has been identified as an inhibitor of mitochondrial cytochrome c release and therefore is a potential neuroprotective agent. By quantifying cell death, we demonstrate that N‐acetyl‐l‐tryptophan (L‐NAT) and N‐acetyl‐DL‐tryptophan are neuroprotective in NSC‐34 motor neuron‐like cells and/or primary motor neurons, while their isomer N‐acetyl‐d‐tryptophan has no protective effect. These findings are consistent with energy minimization and molecular modeling analysis, confirming that L‐NAT generates the most stable complex with the neurokinin‐1 receptor (NK‐1R). L‐NAT inhibits the secretion of Substance P and IL‐1β (Enzyme‐Linked Immunosorbent Assay and/or dot blots) and mitochondrial dysfunction by effectively inhibiting the release of cytochrome c/Smac/AIF from mitochondria into the cytoplasm and activation of apoptotic pathways, including the activation of caspase‐1, ‐9, and ‐3, as well as proteasomal dysfunction through restoring chymotrypsin‐like, trypsin‐like, and caspase‐like proteasome activity. These data provide insight into the molecular mechanisms by which L‐NAT offers neuroprotection in models of ALS and suggest its potential as a novel therapeutic strategy for ALS.

image

We demonstrate that L‐NAT (N‐acetyl‐l‐tryptophan), but not D‐NAT, rescues NSC‐34 cells and primary motor neurons from cell death. L‐NAT inhibits the secretion of Substance P and IL‐1β, and caspase‐1 activation, the release of cytochrome c/Smac/AIF, and the activation of caspase ‐9, and ‐3, as well as proteasomal dysfunction. The data suggest the potential of L‐NAT as a novel therapeutic strategy for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). AIF, apoptosis‐inducing factor.
Running the penultimate lap of the race: A multimethod analysis of growth, generativity, career orientation, and personality amongst men in mid/late career
Authors: Arnold John , Clark Mike
Published: May 2015

The dynamics of development in mid/late career are relatively uncharted territory in empirical research and represent a point of intersection between work/organizational psychology and lifespan developmental psychology. Using multimethod data from a study of 41 men aged between 45 and 55, we investigated the correlates and compatibility of two key developmental phenomena at this career stage: personal growth and generativity. We found that a forward momentum career orientation (not necessarily in the form of hierarchical advancement) was positively associated with personal growth and generativity, whereas a preoccupation with career maintenance had strong negative relationships with both. However, men's orientation towards their career did not uniquely predict growth or generativity when these variables were also regressed on the personality traits of ego resiliency and ego development, suggesting that personality more than subjective career stage is the root of a positive experience of mid/late career. We also conclude that the importance of personal growth is not confined to the first half of career and that contributing to others (i.e., generativity) is compatible with the ostensibly self‐focused concerns of growth. Differences between findings from self‐report questionnaire and coded interview narratives suggest that method matters in the investigation of these constructs.

Practitioner points

Personal growth is relevant to many people in mid–late career. Therefore, it is important not to assume that people at this stage are content to ‘coast’ towards retirement.

Generativity – a desire to contribute to current and future generations – is also important for many workers in mid–late career. It can be expressed in various ways and is not confined to the stereotypical mentoring role. Organizations should therefore facilitate and reward older workers’ generative contributions to mainstream activities.

A sense of forward momentum in career is associated with growth and generativity. In contrast, a maintenance career orientation (i.e., holding on to prior gains) is associated with less positive results. Discerning a person's career orientation is therefore a quick route to knowing whether they are likely to seek challenges and contribute to the well‐being and development of others at this career stage.

Relatively stable personality attributes appear to lie behind both career orientation and growth and generativity in mid–late career. Therefore, it may be difficult to achieve change in the way people approach this part of their career.
Temporal Dynamics of Tomato Severe Rugose Virus and Bemisia tabaci in Tomato Fields in São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Barbosa Júlio C. , Rezende Jorge A. M. , Amorim Lilian , Filho Armando Bergamin
Published: May 2015

Temporal progress of a begomovirus disease in tomato fields and the abundance of its whitefly vector, Bemisia tabaci biotype B, were evaluated during three consecutive tomato plantings in the municipality of Sumaré, state of São Paulo, Brazil, in 2006 and 2007. The incidence of symptomatic plants and the number of adult whiteflies were weekly monitored on experimental plots randomly chosen in tomato commercial fields. Tomato severe rugose virus (ToSRV) was identified as the causal agent of the disease, and its relationships with other Brazilian begomoviruses was confirmed by partial and complete nucleotide sequencing of the viral genome. The disease temporal progress was analysed by fitting different models to disease incidence. The monomolecular model showed the best fit, which is consistent with a predominant role of primary spread in the epidemiology of ToSRV. A higher number of adult whiteflies were observed at the borders of the plots, also suggesting primary spread of ToSRV from external sources of inoculum, which might be represented by weeds and volunteer tomato‐infected plants. In Brazil, since 2004, there is a legislative measure that mandates, for some regions of processing tomato plantings, a 2‐month crop‐free period during the year. Based on our results, we suggest the extension of this measure to all tomato‐producing regions, including fresh market tomato. We also suggest that growers emphasize the elimination of old plants from harvested fields that can serve as virus reservoirs several weeks prior to new plantings and weeds nearby the fields to limit the primary spread of ToSRV.
Two Endopolygalacturonase Genes in Trichoderma virens: In Silico Characterization and Expression during Interaction with Plants
Authors: Baroncelli Riccardo , Matarese Fabiola , Moncini Lorenzo , Vannacci Giovanni , Vergara Mariarosaria
Published: May 2015

The ability of Trichoderma spp. to antagonize most phytopathogenic fungi and to interact with plants by inducing their resistance and promoting their growth has been widely described. Endopolygalacturonases (endoPGs) produced by Trichoderma spp. can assist root penetration and play a pre‐eliciting role in induced systemic resistance (ISR), a beneficial effect detected in plants colonized by Trichoderma. In this study, two endoPG genes (Tvpg1 and Tvpg2) have been identified and partially characterized in a T. virens isolate, previously investigated for its antagonistic ability in several biological systems. An extensive in silico analysis showed relatively low sequence similarities (53%) between TvPG1 and TvPG2 proteins and underscored interesting phylogenetic relationships in the comparison of endoPG genes among fungal genomes. The phylogeny of endoPGs suggests a differentiation in action mechanisms associated with biological functions as one cluster shows only genes from plant‐interacting organisms. A gene expression analysis demonstrated a different regulation pattern for those genes. The Tvpg1 gene was induced both when the fungus was grown in liquid cultures supplemented with pectin or plant cell walls and when it was applied to tomato roots in a growth chamber. Expression times were comparable in both systems. On the contrary, the Tvpg2 gene displayed a constitutive expression in all conditions tested, including controls. The molecular communication between tomato roots and T. virens was investigated by checking the expression of a tomato PGIP (Lepgip1) in roots colonized by fungal mycelium. The Lepgip1 transcript was induced at times coincident with Tvpg1 expression, suggesting a correlation between the two gene products. This paper reports the results of first investigations of T. virens endoPG genes performed on a structural, phylogenetic and functional level.
Coagulation status in dogs with naturally occurring Angiostrongylus vasorum infection
Authors: Adamantos S. , Waters S. , Boag A.
Published: May 2015

OBJECTIVES

Angiostrongylus vasorum infection is associated with bleeding tendencies in approximately one‐third of clinical cases. The cause of the coagulopathy is poorly understood but may be related to disseminated intravascular coagulation. Thromboelastography is a global evaluation of coagulation and has not been described in a cohort of dogs with this disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thromboelastography in association with other measures of coagulation including prothrombin and activated partial thromboplastin times, antithrombin percentage activity and D‐dimer and von Willebrand factor concentrations was evaluated in a group of 30 dogs with A. varosum infection.

RESULTS

A total of 18 dogs had signs of bleeding on physical examination. Thromboelastography was consistent with hypocoagulation in 17 of these dogs. There was no association between any of the other measures and hypocoagulation on thromboelastography. Abnormal coagulation times were not significantly associated with bleeding. Only fibrinogen concentration was significantly lower in dogs that were bleeding compared with those that were not (P = 0 · 026). D‐dimer concentrations were increased in 22/25 cases in the study; however, other coagulation parameters were more variable.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Although the changes identified in this study were not consistent, there is activation of coagulation within this population, possibly consistent with an intravascular disseminated coagulopathy.
An Unbiased Measure of Integrated Volatility in the Frequency Domain
Authors: Wang Fangfang
Published: May 2015

This article studies the effect of market microstructure noise on volatility estimation in the frequency domain. We propose a bias‐corrected periodogram‐based estimator of integrated volatility. We show that the new estimator is consistent and the central limit theorem is established under a general assumption of the noise. We also provide a feasible procedure for computing the bias‐corrected estimator in practice. As a byproduct, we extract a consistent frequency‐domain estimator of the long‐run variance of market microstructure noise from high‐frequency data.
Climatological correlates of seed size in Amazonian forest trees
Authors: Malhado Ana C.M. , Oliveira‐Neto Jose A. , Stropp Juliana , Strona Giovanni , Dias Livia C.P. , Pinto Luciana B. , Ladle Richard J.
Published: May 2015

Question

Do precipitation, temperature and seasonality drive variation in the seed size of Amazonian tree genera?

Location

Amazonia.

Methods

We use a combination of global biodiversity information facility (GBIF) records, climatic data from BIOCLIM and seed size categories derived from the literature.

Results

Tree genera with very small seeds were associated with lower temperatures and higher seasonality, but not with precipitation; the opposite patterns being observed for trees with large seeds. These correlations remained even when the numerically dominant (and ecologically specialized) Fabaceae were removed from the analysis.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that Amazonian tree genera with smaller seeds occur more frequently in transitional or seasonal forests, and genera with large seeds are more associated with climatically stable rain forests (warmer and less seasonality). These results are broadly consistent with the ‘recruitment hypothesis’, which predicts that large seeds have a competitive advantage in closed canopy forest vegetation.
A repeat photograph analysis of long‐term vegetation change in semi‐arid South Africa in response to land use and climate
Authors: Masubelele Mmoto L. , Hoffman Michael T. , Bond William J.
Published: May 2015

Questions

How has the vegetation of the major biomes (Grassland, Nama‐karoo, Albany Thicket, Azonal) of southeastern South Africa changed over the course of the 20th century? How do changes in climate and land‐use drivers relate to long‐term changes in vegetation? What are the implications of these findings for land degradation hypotheses and future climate change projections for the region?

Location

The biogeographically complex semi‐arid, Karoo Midlands region of the southeastern part of South Africa.

Methods

We re‐photographed 65 historical landscape photographs, the majority of which dated from 1950 to 1970, to measure long‐term changes in the cover of grasses, dwarf shrubs, tall shrubs and alien plants. The cover of each growth form as well as total vegetation cover was estimated from matched photograph pairs with the aid of detailed cover estimates recorded in the field. The change in cover was relativized between sites by dividing the difference in cover between the two time steps by the number of years between photographs, expressed as the percentage change in cover per decade. Significant changes in mean annual rainfall and the standardized precipitation index (SPI) from 27 climate stations were assessed using a Mann‐Kendall test for trend. This non‐parametric test was also used to assess the significance of long‐term trends in the number of cattle, sheep and goats in each of the biomes over the period 1911–1996.

Results

Grass cover and total vegetation cover had increased by between 1.0% to 4.5% per decade and 2.0% to 4.5% per decade, respectively, in all biomes investigated. In contrast, the cover of dwarf shrubs had decreased significantly by between 0.25% and 3.0% per decade, although not significantly so in the Nama‐karoo biome. The change in tall shrub cover varied between different biomes but had generally increased in the study area. Alien plants were absent in the historical photographs and had increased significantly but only in Azonal habitats, where increases of 1.5% per decade were recorded. For the majority of climate stations no significant trend in mean annual rainfall and SPI values was recorded, while stocking rate had declined significantly in all biomes by between 36% and 48% from 1911 to 1996.

Conclusions

The findings support the hypothesis that vegetation cover and condition has improved in the semi‐arid regions of South Africa. These findings are discussed in light of future projections for the region.
Suspension of oysters reduces the populations of Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Vibrio vulnificus
Authors: Cole K.M. , Supan J. , Ramirez A. , Johnson C.N.
Published: May 2015

Vibrio parahaemolyticus (Vp) and Vibrio vulnificus (Vv) are associated with the consumption of raw oysters and cause illnesses ranging from simple gastroenteritis to life-threatening septicaemia. These halophilic bacteria are frequently found in marine and estuarine systems, accumulating within the tissues of a number of aquatic organisms and passing on to humans after consumption, through contaminated water, or via open wounds. As benthic organisms capable of filtering 40 gallons of water per hour, sediment is an important source of potentially pathogenic vibrios in oysters destined for raw consumption. This research used off-bottom oyster culture to reduce vibrio concentrations in oysters. Colony hybridization was used to enumerate Vp and Vv in bottom and suspended oysters. Vv and Vp concentrations were generally lower in oysters suspended off-bottom, and suspension decreased vibrio loads in oysters by an average of 13%. Suspension of oysters reduced vibrio concentrations.

Significance and Impact of the Study

This study found that oyster suspension significantly reduced some populations of potentially pathogenic vibrios. These results indicate that oyster suspension could be a viable approach for preharvest treatment to reduce illness in consumers of raw oysters.
Nares‐to‐carina distance in children: does a ‘modified Morgan formula’ give useful guidance during nasal intubation?
Authors: Hunyady Agnes I. , Otto Randolph K. , Christensen Alexis , Jonmarker Christer
Published: May 2015

Background

Knowledge of the normal nares‐to‐carina (NC) distance might prevent accidental bronchial intubation and be helpful when designing preformed endotracheal tubes (ETT).

Objective

The aim was to measure NC distance and to examine whether a height/length‐based ‘modified Morgan formula’ would give useful guidance for nasotracheal ETT depth positioning.

Methods

Two groups were studied. A younger group consisted of nasally intubated postoperative patients. In these, NC distance was obtained as the sum of ETT length and the distance from the ETT tip to the carina, as measured from an anteroposterior chest X‐ray. An older group consisted of children who had undergone computerized tomography (CT) examination including head, neck, and chest. In these, NC was measured directly from the CT image. The modified Morgan formula was derived from the NC vs height/length relationship.

Results

Nares‐to‐carina distance was best predicted by a linear equation based on patient height. The equation in the younger group (1 day–8 years, n = 57) was: NC (cm) = 0.14 × height + 5.8, R2 = 0.90, and in the older group (2.1–20 years, n = 45): NC (cm) = 0.15 × height + 3.4, R2 = 0.93. The equation for the groups combined (n = 102) was: NC (cm) = 0.14 × height + 6.2, R2 = 0.97. Based on the latter equation, a modified Morgan formula was identified as: ETT position at nares in cm = 0.12 × height + 5. If the ETT had been placed as calculated by this formula, the ETT tip would have been at 85 + 5% (mean ± sd) of NC distance, and the ETT tip‐to‐carina distance would have been 3.1 ± 1.1 cm (range 0–6.6). Bronchial intubation would not have occurred in any child, but a comparison to tracheal length measurements indicates that ETT tip position could be too proximal in some children.

Conclusion

The study confirms previous reports: NC distance can be well predicted from height/length. A modified Morgan formula might decrease the risk for accidental endobronchial intubation in infants and children, but ETT position need to be confirmed by auscultation or other verification.
Genetic and reproductive characterisation of seasonal flowering morphs ofGentianella bohemicarevealed strong reproductive isolation and possible single origin
Authors: Plenk K. , Göd F. , Kriechbaum M. , Kropf M.
Published: May 2015

Phenotypic polymorphism represents the most obvious type of intraspecific diversity raising scientific interest in its evolution and maintenance. We studied the regional endemicGentianella bohemica, which exhibits an early‐ and a late‐flowering morph. Genetic variation and structuring were investigated in relation to potential pollination and mating system differences, to verify hypotheses of evolutionary integrity, origin, and reproductive isolation of both flowering morphs. We identified the rarer early‐flowering morph as an independent genetic entity, being more selfing, likely stronger pollinator‐limited and reproductively isolated. All analysed populations showed strong among population differentiation and low overall genetic diversity due to habitat fragmentation and reduced population sizes. These results indicate likely inbreeding, but we also found evidence for possible outbreeding depression in the late‐flowering morph. BothG. bohemicamorphs are characteristic of traditionally used, nutrient‐poor grasslands, but they represent independent conservation units and need temporally adapted management. We, therefore, also briefly discuss our results in the general context of conservation activities in relation to intraspecific polymorphisms and strongly argue for their formal and consequent consideration.
Diel trends in stomatal response to ozone and water deficit: a unique relationship of midday values to growth and allometry in Pima cotton?
Authors: Grantz D. A. , Paudel R. , Vu H.‐B. , Shrestha A. , Grulke N.
Published: May 2015

Plant responses to ozone (O3) and water deficit (WD) are commonly observed, although less is known about their interaction. Stomatal conductance (gs) is both an impact of these stressors and a protective response to them. Stomatal closure reduces inward flux of O3and outward flux of water. Stomatal measurements are generally obtained at midday when gas exchange is maximal, but these may not be adequate surrogates for stomatal responses observed at other times of day, nor for non‐stomatal responses. Here, we find in Pima cotton that stomatal responses to O3observed at midday do not reflect responses at other times. Stomata were more responsive to O3andWDnear midday, despite being at quasi‐steady state, than during periods of active opening or closing in morning or evening. Stomatal responsivity to O3was not coincident with maximum gas exchange or with periods of active regulation, but coincident with plant sensitivity to O3previously determined in this cultivar. Responses of pigmentation and shoot productivity were more closely related to stomatal responses at midday than to responses at other times of day under well‐watered (WW) conditions, reflecting higher stomatal responsivity, sensitivity to O3, and magnitude of middaygs. Under WD conditions, shoot responses were more closely related to early morning gs. Root responses were more closely related to early morning gsunder both WW and WD. Responses of stomata to O3at midday were not good surrogates for stomatal responses early or late in the day, and may not adequately predicting O3flux under WD or when maximum ambient concentrations do not occur near midday.
The response of lake margin sedimentary systems to climatically driven lake level fluctuations: Middle Devonian, Orcadian Basin, Scotland
Authors: Andrews Steven D. , Hartley Adrian J.
Published: May 2015

Lake margin sedimentary systems can provide highly sensitive records of sedimentary response to climate change. The Middle Old Red Sandstone of Northern Scotland comprises a thick succession of cyclic lacustrine sediments. Within this succession the deepest lake phase, the Achanarras fish bed, allows bed‐scale correlation over 160 km across the basin. This provides a unique opportunity to examine the character of synchronous lake margin deposits, and their response to climatically driven lake level fluctuations, across a large continental basin. Detailed characterization of two separate lake margin systems was carried out utilizing multiple sections in western Orkney, in the north, and Easter Ross, in the south. Seven facies have been recognized, which include upper and lower shoreface, deep lake, shallow lake, playa, turbidite and fluvial facies. Differences in vertical and lateral facies stacking patterns reflect the response of these systems to climatically driven fluctuations in lake level. Comparison of the northern and southern systems examined highlights the variable response of lake margin systems to the same climatic change and related lake level fluctuations. In the south, a greater fluvial influence is recognized on the development of the lake margin successions, whereas in the northern example, which lay on the downwind margin of the lake, shore zone facies are more commonly developed. The variability recognized can be accounted for by regional variations in sediment supply, coastal physiography, lake size, bathymetry and potential fetch. Lake level stability is also recognized as a major control on the development of lake margin sedimentary systems, as is the linked or unlinked relationship of the catchment and the lake basin climate for which a conceptual model is proposed.
Hamstrings functional properties in athletes with high musculo‐skeletal flexibility
Authors: Moltubakk M. M. , Eriksrud O. , Paulsen G. , Seynnes O. R. , Bojsen‐Møller J.
Published: May 2015

The purpose of this study was to examine whether athletes with highly flexible hamstring muscle‐tendon units display different passive and contractile mechanical properties compared with controls. Flexibility, passive, and active torque–angle properties were assessed in 21 female elite rhythmic gymnasts and 16 female age‐matched athletes. Passive resistance to stretch was measured during knee extension with the hip fixed at 100° of flexion. Concentric isokinetic maximal voluntary knee flexion and extension torques were measured at 60°/s in the same position. Tests of flexibility and passive resistance to stretch indicated a greater flexibility in the gymnasts. Despite no differences between groups in knee flexion and extension peak torque, gymnasts reached knee flexion peak torque at more extended positions (longer muscle lengths) and displayed significantly different torque–angle relations. When active torque was corrected for passive resistance to stretch, differences increased, gymnasts producing more work, and maintaining ≥ 70% of peak torque over a larger range of joint excursion. In conclusion, individuals with a higher flexibility of the hamstrings MTU present a different torque–angle profile, favoring the production of flexion torque toward extended knee positions, displaying larger functional range of motion and a higher mechanical work output during knee flexion.
Histopathology and immune histochemistry of red tattoo reactions
Authors: Høgsberg T. , Thomsen B. M. , Serup J.
Published: May 2015

Background

The majority of tattoo reactions are affiliated to red pigmented areas and often suspected to be allergic in nature. A sizeable series of biopsies of such reactions has not previously been performed. The aim of this study was to type and grade epidermal and dermal changes in tattoo reactions to red/red nuances by microscopy and immunochemistry relevant for the assessment of a possible allergic pathomechanism.

Methods

Skin biopsies were taken from red tattoo reactions, graded by conventional microscopy and stained for T and B‐lymphocytes, Langerhans cells, macrophages and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α.

Results

The study included 19 biopsies from 19 patients. The culprit colours were red/pink (n = 15) and purple/bordeaux (n = 4). Interface dermatitis was clearly the lead pathology found in 78% of samples, overlapped with granulomatous (in 32%) and pseudolymphomatous reaction patterns (in 32%). Epidermal hyperkeratosis (in 89%) was common as was leakage of red pigment across the dermo‐epidermal junction, with transepidermal elimination (in 28%). The dermal cellular infiltration was dominated by T‐lymphocytes (in 100%), Langerhans cells (in 95%) and macrophages (in 100%). TNF‐α was common.

Conclusion

The predominant histological pattern of chronic tattoo reactions in red/red nuances is interface dermatitis. T‐lymphocytes and Langerhans cells are increased suggesting an allergic pathomechanism. TNF‐α may contribute to reactions. In many cases, overlapping reactive patterns were identified.
A prion reduction filter does not completely remove endogenous prion infectivity from sheep blood
Authors: McCutcheon Sandra , Alejo Blanco A. Richard , Tan Boon Chin , González Lorenzo , Martin Stuart , Mallinson Gary , Appleford Nigel E. , Turner Marc L. , Manson Jean C. , Houston E. Fiona
Published: May 2015

BACKGROUND

Variant Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease (vCJD) is a transmissible spongiform encephalopathy affecting humans, acquired initially through infection with bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE). A small number of vCJD cases have been acquired through the transfusion of blood from asymptomatic donors who subsequently developed vCJD. Filter devices that selectively bind the infectious agent associated with prion disease have been developed for removal of infection from blood. This study independently assessed one such filter, the P‐CAPT filter, for efficacy in removing infectivity associated with the BSE agent in sheep blood. The sheep BSE model has previously been used to evaluate the distribution of infectivity in clinically relevant blood components. This is the first study to assess the ability of the P‐CAPT filter to remove endogenous infectivity associated with blood components prepared from a large animal model.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Paired units of leukoreduced red blood cells (LR‐RBCs) were prepared from donors at the clinical stage of infection and confirmed as having BSE. One cohort of recipients was transfused with LR‐RBCs alone, whereas a parallel cohort received LR and P‐CAPT–filtered RBCs (LR‐RBCs‐P‐CAPT).

RESULTS

Of 14 recipients, two have been confirmed as having BSE. These sheep had received LR‐RBCs and LR‐RBCs‐P‐CAPT from the same donor.

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicate that, after leukoreduction and P‐CAPT filtration, there can still be sufficient residual infectivity in sheep RBCs to transmit infection when transfused into a susceptible recipient.