bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analytical perspectives on performance-based management: an outline of theoretical assumptions in the existing literature
Authors: Wadmann Sarah , Johansen Sarah , Lind Ane , Okkels Birk Hans , Hoeyer Klaus
Published: March 2013

Performance-based management (PBM) has become a dominant form of governance in health care and there is a need for careful assessment of its function and effects. This article contains a cross-disciplinary literature synthesis of current studies of PBM. Literature was retrieved by database searches and categorized according to analytical differences and similarities concerning (1) purpose and (2) governance mechanism of PBM. The literature could be grouped into three approaches to the study of PBM, which we termed: the ‘functionalist’, the ‘interpretive’ and the ‘post-modern’ perspective. In the functionalist perspective, PBM is perceived as a management tool aimed at improving health care services by means of market-based mechanisms. In the interpretive perspective, the adoption of PBM is understood as consequence of institutional and individual agents striving for public legitimacy. In the post-modern perspective, PBM is analysed as a form of governance, which has become so ingrained in Western culture that health care professionals internalize and understand their own behaviour and goals according to the values expressed in these governance systems. The recognition of differences in analytical perspectives allows appreciation of otherwise implicit assumptions and potential implications of PBM. Reflections on such differences are important to ensure vigilant appropriation of shifting management tools in health quality governance.
THE POTENTIAL HIERARCHY OF SETS
Authors: LINNEBO ØYSTEIN
Published: March 2013

Some reasons to regard the cumulative hierarchy of sets as potential rather than actual are discussed. Motivated by this, a modal set theory is developed which encapsulates this potentialist conception. The resulting theory is equi-interpretable with Zermelo Fraenkel set theory but sheds new light on the set-theoretic paradoxes and the foundations of set theory.
May-Thurner syndrome: diagnosis and management
Authors: Brazeau Nicholas F. , Harvey Harlan B. , Pinto Erique G. , Deipolyi Amy , Hesketh Richard L. , Oklu Rahmi
Published: March 2013

For over fifty years, the pathogenesis of May-Thurner syndrome (MTS) has been associated with chronic left common iliac vein compression resulting in the formation of intraluminal, permanent obstructive lesions. However, despite this association, the mechanism by which compression produces these lesions is unknown. Diagnostic accuracy of MTS is critical since it often afflicts young patients requiring endovascular management. This review will focus on the historical, embryological and evolutionary description of MTS and examine its development, diagnosis, clinical management and potential diagnostic errors.
Systemic therapy with bevacizumab in patients with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT)
Authors: Chavan Ajay , Schumann-Binarsch Silke , Luthe Lars , Nickau Britta , Elsässer Albrecht , Kühnel Thomas , Geisthoff Urban , Köhne Henning
Published: March 2013

Background: Frequent epistaxis, the hallmark of hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) significantly affects quality of life. Hepatic involvement may be associated with capsular pain, abdominal angina, high-output cardiac failure and portal hypertension with ascites and variceal bleeding. Liver transplantation as well as hepatic artery embolization as invasive treatment options for hepatic involvement are both associated with a certain morbidity and mortality. Patients and methods: Three patients with HHT and symptomatic hepatic involvement prospectively underwent off-label systemic treatment with the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-inhibitor Bevacizumab in 6 cycles. Clinical symptoms and cardiac output were assessed before as well as 3 months after therapy. Results: At 3 months follow-up, capsular pain and abdominal angina were significantly reduced in two of the three patients (Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) grade 4 and 5 changed to grade 2). Cardiac output, which was initially raised in both patients, normalized and was associated with an improvement in the signs and symptoms of cardiac insufficiency by one stage according to the NYHA classification in both patients. Symptoms however returned back gradually to pre-therapeutic levels after 9 months in one of these two patients. In the third patient with a normal cardiac status prior to therapy, a marked subjective improvement in the performance status, fatigability and quality of life was noted. Grade 2 nasal bleeding reduced to grade 0 - 1 in all three patients; this clinical improvement was persistent at 3, 7 and 9 months follow-up. No significant lasting complications were observed. Conclusions: Sytemic Bevacizumab therapy could become an important therapy option in the non-invasive medical treatment of patients with HHT. Further studies to document long-term results, to determine the appropriate drug dosage as well as to evaluate the necessity of a maintenance drug regime are warranted.
Zur Demographie der Grundversorger in der Schweiz
Authors: Gähler Ernst , Osterwalder Remo , Bosshard Christoph
Published: March 2013

Weshalb mangelt es in der Schweiz zunehmend an Hausärztinnen und Hausärzten? 47 % von ihnen sind im Jahr 2011 über 55 Jahre alt und ihre Pensionierung absehbar; die hohe Arbeitsbelastung, mangelnde Teilzeitstellen, inadäquate Tarifierungen wie etwa beim Praxislabor sowie negative politische Rahmenbedingungen – Stichwort Praxisstopp zwischen 2002 und 2009 – tragen weiter dazu bei, die Grundversorgung unattraktiv zu machen. Die FMH legt die aktuellen Zahlen und Fakten sowie deren Konsequenzen auf den Tisch und erläutert die wirtschaftlichen, tarifarischen und politischen Erfordernisse und Lösungsansätze.
Gruppenarbeit im Studium
Authors: Kostorz Peter , van den Berg Marco
Published: March 2013

Gruppenarbeit im Studium – eine in der modernen Hochschuldidaktik kaum noch wegzudenkende Form kooperativen Lernens. Was aber macht deren besondere Bedeutung im Lehr-Lern-Prozess an Universitäten und Fachhochschulen aus? Wie beurteilen Studierende diese Form der Lehre als deren Adressaten? Und: Was können Studierende selber tun, um Gruppenarbeitsphasen effektiv zu gestalten und zur individuellen Kompetenzerweiterung zu nutzen? Der vorliegende Beitrag greift diese zentralen Fragen der Hochschullehre auf und bemüht sich um deren Beantwortung.
The unexpected discovery of a novel low-oxygen-activated locus for the anoxic persistence of Burkholderia cenocepacia
Authors: Sass Andrea M , Schmerk Crystal , Agnoli Kirsty , Norville Phillip J , Eberl Leo , Valvano Miguel A , Mahenthiralingam Eshwar
Published: March 2013

Burkholderia cenocepacia is a Gram-negative aerobic bacterium that belongs to a group of opportunistic pathogens displaying diverse environmental and pathogenic lifestyles. B. cenocepacia is known for its ability to cause lung infections in people with cystic fibrosis and it possesses a large 8 Mb multireplicon genome encoding a wide array of pathogenicity and fitness genes. Transcriptomic profiling across nine growth conditions was performed to identify the global gene expression changes made when B. cenocepacia changes niches from an environmental lifestyle to infection. In comparison to exponential growth, the results demonstrated that B. cenocepacia changes expression of over one-quarter of its genome during conditions of growth arrest, stationary phase and surprisingly, under reduced oxygen concentrations (6% instead of 20.9% normal atmospheric conditions). Multiple virulence factors are upregulated during these growth arrest conditions. A unique discovery from the comparative expression analysis was the identification of a distinct, co-regulated 50-gene cluster that was significantly upregulated during growth under low oxygen conditions. This gene cluster was designated the low-oxygen-activated (lxa) locus and encodes six universal stress proteins and proteins predicted to be involved in metabolism, transport, electron transfer and regulation. Deletion of the lxa locus resulted in B. cenocepacia mutants with aerobic growth deficiencies in minimal medium and compromised viability after prolonged incubation in the absence of oxygen. In summary, transcriptomic profiling of B. cenocepacia revealed an unexpected ability of aerobic Burkholderia to persist in the absence of oxygen and identified the novel lxa locus as key determinant of this important ecophysiological trait.
Acetate oxidation by syntrophic association between Geobacter sulfurreducens and a hydrogen-utilizing exoelectrogen
Authors: Kimura Zen-ichiro , Okabe Satoshi
Published: March 2013

Anodic microbial communities in acetate-fed microbial fuel cells (MFCs) were analyzed using stable-isotope probing of 16S rRNA genes followed by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis. The results revealed that Geobacter sulfurreducens and Hydrogenophaga sp. predominated in the anodic biofilm. Although the predominance of Geobacter sp. as acetoclastic exoelectrogens in acetate-fed MFC systems has been often reported, the ecophysiological role of Hydrogenophaga sp. is unknown. Therefore, we isolated and characterized a bacterium closely related to Hydrogenophaga sp. (designated strain AR20). The newly isolated strain AR20 could use molecular hydrogen (H2), but not acetate, with carbon electrode as the electron acceptor, indicating that the strain AR20 was a hydrogenotrophic exoelectrogen. This evidence raises a hypothesis that acetate was oxidized by G. sulfurreducens in syntrophic cooperation with the strain AR20 as a hydrogen-consuming partner in the acetate-fed MFC. To prove this hypothesis, G. sulfurreducens strain PCA was cocultivated with the strain AR20 in the acetate-fed MFC without any dissolved electron acceptors. In the coculture MFC of G. sulfurreducens and strain AR20, current generation and acetate degradation were the highest, and the growth of strain AR20 was observed. No current generation, acetate degradation and cell growth occurred in the strain AR20 pure culture MFC. These results show for the first time that G. sulfurreducens can oxidize acetate in syntrophic cooperation with the isolated Hydrogenophaga sp. strain AR20, with electrode as the electron acceptor.
Severe plant invasions can increase mycorrhizal fungal abundance and diversity
Authors: Lekberg Ylva , Gibbons Sean M , Rosendahl Søren , Ramsey Philip W
Published: March 2013

Invasions by non-native plants can alter ecosystem functions and reduce native plant diversity, but relatively little is known about their effect on belowground microbial communities. We show that invasions by knapweed (Centaurea stoebe) and leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula, hereafter spurge)—but not cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum)—support a higher abundance and diversity of symbiotic arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) than multi-species native plant communities. The higher AMF richness associated with knapweed and spurge is unlikely due to a co-invasion by AMF, because a separate sampling showed that individual native forbs hosted a similar AMF abundance and richness as exotic forbs. Native grasses associated with fewer AMF taxa, which could explain the reduced AMF richness in native, grass-dominated communities. The three invasive plant species harbored distinct AMF communities, and analyses of co-occurring native and invasive plants indicate that differences were partly driven by the invasive plants and were not the result of pre-invasion conditions. Our results suggest that invasions by mycotrophic plants that replace poorer hosts can increase AMF abundance and richness. The high AMF richness in monodominant plant invasions also indicates that the proposed positive relationship between above and belowground diversity is not always strong. Finally, the disparate responses among exotic plants and consistent results between grasses and forbs suggest that AMF respond more to plant functional group than plant provenance.
Space‐vector slope‐based method for fast locating of switched capacitors in power systems
Authors: Saadatpoor Atieh , Tabesh Ahmadreza , Iravani Reza
Published: March 2013

This study introduces a fast locating algorithm for a switched shunt capacitor based on the slopes of the voltage/current space vectors at monitoring points of a power system. Compared with the other suggested slope‐based methods, such as signal‐processing and filter‐based methods, the proposed algorithm herein offers a robuster and more reliable locating method because of using the information of all three phases, whereas other methods separately process individual phase signals. The method is training free and established based on algebraic calculations with a simple realisation algorithm, which is independent of the power system dynamics and parameters. The proposed method is analytically investigated and then verified based on the time‐domain simulation of two study systems. The study systems cover various capacitor‐switching scenarios, harmonic effects and measurement noise and power system dynamics including dynamics of rotating machines and power electronic converters.
Stochastic multi‐objective frequency control in joint energy and reserve markets considering power system security
Authors: Jadid Shahram , Rabbanifar Payam
Published: March 2013

This study presents a novel stochastic multi‐objective model for precise scheduling of energy and reserve services in day‐ahead markets. This model is based on a security‐constrained market clearing with an emphasis on preservation of system frequency. A frequency index that is derived from the total system frequency profile during post‐contingency intervals has been defined as an extra objective function to control system frequency after the occurrence of a contingency. The model is capable of scheduling the tertiary regulation interval through appropriate generators’ reference power setting instructions made by the ISO based on participants’ bids for energy and reserve services. The reference power settings are obtained by an optimisation model and can be performed directly by the speed changers. The load dependency on frequency has also been analysed in the proposed model. This approach could be used by ISOs to make a trade‐off concurrently between system frequency profile and total operating cost to operate the power system securely in an economically efficient manner. The developed multi‐objective programming is analysed through two case studies; a three‐bus system scheduled over 1 h and the IEEE 24‐bus reliability test system over 24 h, solved by means of mixed‐integer linear programming methods.
Identification of prospective locations for generation expansion with least augmentation of network
Authors: Surendra S. , Thukaram Dhadbanjan
Published: March 2013

With ever increasing demand for electric energy, additional generation and associated transmission facilities has to be planned and executed. In order to augment existing transmission facilities, proper planning and selective decisions are to be made whereas keeping in mind the interests of several parties who are directly or indirectly involved. Common trend is to plan optimal generation expansion over the planning period in order to meet the projected demand with minimum cost capacity addition along with a pre‐specified reliability margin. Generation expansion at certain locations need new transmission network which involves serious problems such as getting right of way, environmental clearance etc. In this study, an approach to the citing of additional generation facilities in a given system with minimum or no expansion in the transmission facility is attempted using the network connectivity and the concept of electrical distance for projected load demand. The proposed approach is suitable for large interconnected systems with multiple utilities. Sample illustration on real life system is presented in order to show how this approach improves the overall performance on the operation of the system with specified performance parameters.
Compensating scheme for limiting secondary arc current of 1000 kV ultra‐high voltage long parallel lines
Authors: Xu Zhenyu , Yan Xiaoqing , Zhang Xu , Wen An
Published: March 2013

Optimal compensating schemes for the secondary arc current limiting using neutral reactor for 1000 kV ultra‐high voltage long parallel transmission lines in maintenance state are investigated in this study. For maintenance safety, the line in maintenance must be electrically isolated from the line in normal operation state. The influential factors such as transposition degree, arc resistance, load current and fault location are studied. Finally, the sensitivity of secondary arc current against the variation of neutral reactor value is investigated. Real‐time digital simulator (RTDS) simulation tests have been carried out to verify the correctness and validity of the analysis presented in this study.
Identification of generator loss‐of‐excitation from power‐swing conditions using a fast pattern classification method
Authors: Pajuelo Eli , Gokaraju Ramakrishna , Sachdev Mohindar S.
Published: March 2013

This study describes a support vector machine (SVM)‐based technique for identifying loss‐of‐excitation (LOE) condition in synchronous generators from other disturbances such as external faults and power‐swing conditions. In this new approach, only one zone of LOE is required and the time coordination is reduced significantly. The proposed method is compared with traditional two‐zone impedance method. Several operating conditions within the generator capability are used to verify the generality of the SVM‐based classifier. The proposed classifier identifies an LOE condition in all cases before the impedance enters the larger mho impedance zone. Faults and power‐swing conditions are identified correctly, thereby preventing incorrect operation of the LOE impedance zone.
Research on dynamic load modelling based on power quality monitoring system
Authors: Yuan Ren‐Feng , Ai Qian , He Xing
Published: March 2013

This study proposes a novel approach for load modelling fulfilled in Guangdong Power Grid, Southern China. Dynamic load modelling lies on real‐time data provided by load disturbances. These data can be acquired by power quality equipment fixed on each substation. This study introduces the approach to data processing and load modelling during asymmetric disturbance to solve the problems of insufficient inartificial disturbance data. In order to improve the global optimisation capability and identification efficiency in multi‐dimensional function, an improved clone selection algorithm is proposed, which includes adaptive‐adjust Gaussian mutation operators and the directional evolution mechanism, and also using the character of parameters independence between induction motor model and ZIP model referring to the third‐order induction‐motor paralleling ZIP model in BPA. The results of practical load modelling prove that the proposed algorithm has great effects on improving model precision and adaptability. Finally, the influences on power angle, frequency, voltage and power between dynamic load model and ZIP are discussed.
CLIL classroom discourse
Authors: Nikula Tarja , Dalton-Puffer Christiane , García Ana Llinares
Published: March 2013

Under the label of Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) the teaching of curriculum subjects through the medium of a foreign language has become a widely accepted feature in mainstream education systems in Europe and other parts of the world. After contextualizing its subject matter in CLIL research as a whole, this article focuses on research into classroom discourse. In order to unravel the complexities involved, three different takes on CLIL classroom discourse are discussed as an evidence-base for (a) language learning, (b) language use and social-interactional aspects of L2-interaction, and (c) processes of knowledge construction in and through a second or foreign language. The article concludes with an outline of requirements for further research in the area.
Variation in the translation patterns of English complex noun phrases into Spanish in a specific domain
Authors: Carrió Pastor María Luisa , Candel Mora Miguel Ángel
Published: March 2013

This paper focuses on a functionalist analysis of the patterns followed when translating specific texts from English into Spanish. The original texts are written in English and, afterwards, translated to other languages. In this process, lexical variation may appear. The main objectives of this study are to determine whether English noun phrases have different lexical equivalents when translated into Spanish and whether this depends on the position of the head in the complex noun phrase. Other objectives of this paper are, on the one hand, to detect the role of the head and modifiers in English complex noun phrases when translated into the target language, and, on the other hand, to determine whether the specificity of nouns could be the cause of variation. The answer to these research questions will be useful for translators, communication specialists and scientists who use English and Spanish to communicate.
The passive voice in spoken and written Danish, Norwegian and Swedish
Authors: Laanemets Anu
Published: March 2013

Taking a comparative corpus-based approach, the article examines the use of the passive voice in Danish, Norwegian, and Swedish written as well as spoken language. More specifically, we measure the relative frequency of the passive voice in general and in its two forms — periphrastic and morphological — within two written and two oral genres. Although we find differences in the relative frequency of the passive voice, with Danish and Norwegian being more similar than Swedish, the basic pattern is identical across the three languages. Situational and stylistic factors — especially the degree of formality — appear more important for the choice of passive voice than the distinction between written and spoken media. More formal genres use more passive voice and have a preference for the morphological passive, whereas less formal genres tend to use less passive voice with the periphrastic passive playing a relatively more prominent role.
A closer walk
Authors: Richardson Peter
Published: March 2013

Committed, conservative Christians and Muslims are often characterised by a perceived sense of the absolute certainty of their beliefs. This certainty and the seemingly rigid nature of what they believe (including notions such as judgement and eternal punishment) often bring them into a degree of conflict and competition with other worldviews. This situation can make attempts at mutually stimulating engagement and co-existence outside of evangelisation or debate difficult. However, I will argue that this sense of certainty is primarily located in the implicit presuppositions beneath inherently fluid action and relationship language that can often be expressed through metaphors of movement and proximity. This article analyses such metaphors in testimonials produced by Muslim and Christian converts and argues that they exhibit varying patterns of emphasis. These include a focus on a relationship with God derived from the language of intimate human relationships in the Christian testimonials, as compared to a focus on a personal journey of research and reflection in the Muslim testimonials. I will conclude by arguing that an awareness of particular individual or community patterns of emphasis in the action and relationship language of conservative believers may help those outside these communities establish points of personal connection. These points of connection may in turn contribute to the possibility of successful, mutually stimulating co-existence.
A cross-cultural investigation of email communication in Peninsular Spanish and British English
Authors: Lorenzo-Dus Nuria , Bou-Franch Patricia
Published: March 2013

This paper examines the email discursive practices of particular speakers of two different languages, namely
Peninsular Spanish and British English. More specifically, our study focuses on (in)formality and (in)directness therein,
for these lie at the heart of considerable scholarly debate regarding, respectively (i) the general stylistic drift towards orality
and informality in technology-mediated communication, and (ii) the degree of communicative (in)directness – within broader
politeness orientations – of speakers of different languages, specifically an orientation towards directness in Peninsular
Spanish vis-à-vis indirectness in British English. The aim of this paper is thus to investigate the role of (in)formality and
(in)directness in email messages sent by members of two groups of undergraduate students to their university lecturers.
To this end, a corpus of 100 impromptu emails was compiled and analysed. Results revealed complex, fluctuating patterns
regarding levels of (in)formality and (in)directness that underlined cross-cultural variation in the way that different
sociopragmatic principles found expression in a specific computer-mediated communicative situation.
Growth Responses of Picea Mongolica Saplings to Goat Browsing
Authors: Zou Chunjing , Zhang Chao , Shimizu Hideyuki , Song Qing , Jin Mudan , Ma Yongliang , Xu Wenduo
Published: March 2013

Picea mongolicaW. D. Xu is an endemic and endangered species that is only found in semiarid areas in north China. It has also been widely used as the forestation tree in China's "Three-North" shelterbelts construction. Although a National Natural Reserve has been set up for conserving the rare species, it always suffers from goat browsing, especially during the winter. Dendrochronology analysis is applied to understand the consequences of goat browsing onPicea mongolica's growth. Two sites with different types of trees were chosen side by side to compare the differences between shape, radial growth, height growth, and age of spruce saplings: (1) stunted and heavily browsed spruce, shorter than the browsing limit and (2) escaped spruce that were taller than the browsing limit but still browsed in their lower part. Under repeated and intense browsing, the shape in stunted spruce was compact and heavily ramified, and the same phenomenon was shown below the browsing limit in escaped spruce (1.05 ± 0.06 m), distinctly different from the shape of escaped spruce above the browsing limit. The results showed that the release of browsing pressure, once the tree reached the browsing limit, was characterized by an abrupt increase in radial growth. Before release, trees showed a growth stagnation characterized by annual rings (0.5 mm per year) and annual height (<5 cm per year) increments. After release, the increments of rings and height were 2 mm and 14 cm each year, respectively. We use this pattern to estimate the release ages and their possible variation over time. Age differences between stunted and escaped spruce were highly significant and indicate that, despite browsing, most, if not all, trees will ultimately reach the browsing limit and escape. Heavy goat pressure delayed spruce sapling recruitment by about 10 years. This delay varied in relation to site quality and seemed to have increased over time, suggesting an increase in browsing pressure.
The Phylogeny of Rhizocephalan Parasites of the Genus Heterosaccus using Molecular and Larval Data (Cirripedia: Rhizocephala; Sacculinidae)
Authors: Glenner Henrik , Thomsen Philip Francis , Rybakov Alexey V. , Galil Bella S. , Hoeg Jens T.
Published: March 2013

Within parasitic barnacles of the family Sacculinidae, the genus Heterosaccus is the third largest, with 12 species infesting various brachyuran hosts throughout the world. As part of an effort to reconstruct rhizocephalan phylogeny we performed an analysis of four species of Heterosaccus and of selected sacculinid and non-sacculinid rhizocephalans. We used both molecular sequence data (16s rDNA and 18s rDNA) and morphological characters from an SEM analysis of the cypris larvae. Using Bayesian methods we obtained a highly supported tree in which the four species of Heterosaccus form a monophylum, whereas both the genus Sacculina and the family Sacculinidae are polyphyletic. The sistergroup to Heterosaccus is a clade consisting of the sacculinids Loxothylacus panopaei and the "classical" rhizocephalan Sacculina carcini. The molecular results found support in cypris morphology, where we identified two distinct synapomorphies for Heterosaccus, both present in male cyprids only: A large flap extending posteriorly from the third antennular segment, and the male-specific aesthetasc on the third segment being reduced to a rudiment or lacking completely. Female cyprids didn't show generic level apomorphies but resembled those of other sacculinid species. No morphological synapomorphies were identified between Heterosaccus, L. panopaei and S. carcini. While larval characters proved to be informative, we conclude that future studies on rhizocephalan taxonomy must rely primarily on molecular data, both to provide an overall phylogenetic framework and to assure an accurate identification of species for biogeographical and other biological purposes.
Differential Regulation ofSalmonellaTyphimurium Genes Involved in O-Antigen Capsule Production and Their Role in Persistence Within Tomato Fruit
Authors: Marvasi Massimiliano , Cox Clayton E. , Xu Yimin , Noel Jason T. , Giovannoni James J. , Teplitski Max
Published: March 2013

Enteric pathogens, including non-typhoidal Salmonella spp. and enterovirulent Escherichia coli, are capable of persisting and multiplying within plants. Yet, little is still known about the mechanisms of these interactions. This study identified the Salmonella yihT gene (involved in synthesis of the O-antigen capsule) as contributing to persistence in immature tomato fruit. Deletion of yihT reduced competitive fitness of S. enterica sv. Typhimurium in green (but not ripe, regardless of color) tomato fruit by approximately 3 logs. The yihT recombinase-based in vivo expression technology (RIVET) reporter was strongly activated in unripe tomato fruit, and fitness of the mutant inversely correlated with the level of the yihT gene expression. Expression of yihT in mature tomato fruit was low, and yihT did not affect competitive fitness within mature fruit. To better understand the molecular basis of the phenotype, behaviors of the yihT RIVET reporter and the yihT mutant were tested in tomato fruit defective in ethylene signaling. These experiments suggest a role for functional ethylene-mediated signaling in the persistence of Salmonella spp. within tomato fruit. Furthermore, jasmonic acid and its precursors strongly reduced expression of yihT.
Inhibition of rotavirus replication by downregulation of fatty acid synthesis
Authors: Gaunt Eleanor R. , Cheung Winsome , Richards James E. , Lever Andrew , Desselberger Ulrich
Published: March 2013

Recently the recruitment of lipid droplets (LDs) to sites of rotavirus (RV) replication was reported. LDs are polymorphic organelles that store triacylglycerols, cholesterol and cholesterol esters. The neutral fats are derived from palmitoyl-CoA, synthesized via the fatty acid biosynthetic pathway. RV-infected cells were treated with chemical inhibitors of the fatty acid biosynthetic pathway, and the effects on viral replication kinetics were assessed. Treatment with compound C75, an inhibitor of the fatty acid synthase enzyme complex (FASN), reduced RV infectivity 3.2-fold (P  =  0.07) and modestly reduced viral RNA synthesis (1.2-fold). Acting earlier in the fatty acid synthesis pathway, TOFA [5-(Tetradecyloxy)-2-furoic acid] inhibits the enzyme acetyl-CoA carboxylase 1 (ACC1). TOFA reduced the infectivity of progeny RV 31-fold and viral RNA production 6-fold. The effect of TOFA on RV infectivity and RNA replication was dose-dependent, and infectivity was reduced by administering TOFA up to 4 h post-infection. Co-treatment of RV-infected cells with C75 and TOFA synergistically reduced viral infectivity. Knockdown by siRNA of FASN and ACC1 produced findings similar to those observed by inhibiting these proteins with the chemical compounds. Inhibition of fatty acid synthesis using a range of approaches uniformly had a more marked impact on viral infectivity than on viral RNA yield, inferring a role for LDs in virus assembly and/or egress. Specific inhibitors of fatty acid metabolism may help pinpoint the critical structural and biochemical features of LDs that are essential for RV replication, and facilitate the development of antiviral therapies.
Innate cellular responses to rotavirus infection
Authors: Holloway Gavan , Coulson Barbara S.
Published: March 2013

Rotavirus is a leading cause of severe dehydrating diarrhoea in infants and young children. Following rotavirus infection in the intestine an innate immune response is rapidly triggered. This response leads to the induction of type I and type III interferons (IFNs) and other cytokines, resulting in a reduction in viral replication. Here we review the current literature describing the detection of rotavirus infection by pattern recognition receptors within host cells, the subsequent molecular mechanisms leading to IFN and cytokine production, and the processes leading to reduced rotavirus replication and the development of protective immunity. Rotavirus countermeasures against innate responses, and their roles in modulating rotavirus replication in mice, also are discussed. By linking these different aspects of innate immunity, we provide a comprehensive overview of the host’s first line of defence against rotavirus infection. Understanding these processes is expected to be of benefit in improving strategies to combat rotavirus disease.
Four novel papillomavirus sequences support a broad diversity among equine papillomaviruses
Authors: Lange Christian E. , Vetsch Elisabeth , Ackermann Mathias , Favrot Claude , Tobler Kurt
Published: March 2013

Papillomaviruses appear to be species-specific pathogens, and it was suggested that each animal species might harbour its own set of papillomaviruses. However, all approaches addressing the underlying evolutionary phenomena still suffer from very limited data about animal papillomaviruses. In case of the horse for example, only three equine papillomaviruses (EcPVs) have been identified. To further address the situation in this host, suspected papillomavirus-associated lesions were tested for EcPV DNA. Four novel EcPV types were detected and their genomes entirely cloned and sequenced. They display the characteristic organization, with early (E) and late (L) regions harbouring the seven classical open reading frames divided by non-coding regions. They were named EcPVs 4, 5, 6 and 7, according to their dissimilarity to other papillomaviruses. Most L1 nucleotide identities were shared with EcPV2 in case of EcPV4 (62 %) and EcPV5 (60 %) or with EcPV3 in case of EcPV6 (70 %) and EcPV7 (71 %). Thus, EcPVs 4 and 5 may establish novel species within the genus Dyoiota, while EcPVs 6 and 7 might fit into the genus Dyorho and belong to the same species as EcPV3. They were found in genital plaques (EcPV4), aural plaques (EcPV5, EcPV6) or penile masses (EcPV7). Interestingly, PCR analysis revealed the DNA of EcPV2 and EcPV4 as well as of EcPV3 and EcPV6 together in the same tissue samples, respectively. In conclusion, the DNA of four novel EcPV types was identified and cloned. They cluster with the known types and support broad genetic EcPV diversity in at least two of the known clades. Furthermore, PCR assays also provide evidence for EcPV co-infections in horses.
Transcriptomic Analysis of the Role of Carboxylic Acids in Metabolite Signaling in Arabidopsis Leaves
Authors: Finkemeier Iris , König Ann-Christine , Heard William , Nunes-Nesi Adriano , Pham Phuong Anh , Leister Dario , Fernie Alisdair R. , Sweetlove Lee J.
Published: March 2013

The transcriptional response to metabolites is an important mechanism by which plants integrate information about cellular energy and nutrient status. Although some carboxylic acids have been implicated in the regulation of gene expression for select transcripts, it is unclear whether all carboxylic acids have the same effect, how many transcripts are affected, and how carboxylic acid signaling is integrated with other metabolite signals. In this study, we demonstrate that perturbations in cellular concentrations of citrate, and to a lesser extent malate, have a major impact on nucleus-encoded transcript abundance. Functional categories of transcripts that were targeted by both organic acids included photosynthesis, cell wall, biotic stress, and protein synthesis. Specific functional categories that were only regulated by citrate included tricarboxylic acid cycle, nitrogen metabolism, sulfur metabolism, and DNA synthesis. Further quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis of specific citrate-responsive transcripts demonstrated that the transcript response to citrate is time and concentration dependent and distinct from other organic acids and sugars. Feeding of isocitrate as well as the nonmetabolizable citrate analog tricarballylate revealed that the abundance of selected marker transcripts is responsive to citrate and not downstream metabolites. Interestingly, the transcriptome response to citrate feeding was most similar to those observed after biotic stress treatments and the gibberellin biosynthesis inhibitor paclobutrazol. Feeding of citrate to mutants with defects in plant hormone signaling pathways did not completely abolish the transcript response but hinted at a link with jasmonic acid and gibberellin signaling pathways. Our results suggest that changes in carboxylic acid abundances can be perceived and signaled in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) by as yet unknown signaling pathways.
Evaluation of selected library associations' web sites
Authors: Ahmadian Yazdi Fahimeh , Deshpande N.J.
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The aim of the study reported in this paper is to evaluate 71 library association web sites using 15 selected Webometric criteria.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses Webometric analysis and ranking based on a scaling method and comparative means analysis (One Way ANOVA), and homogeneous subsets using criteria from SPSS13 and Excel2007.

Findings

The majority of library association web sites have “contact us” links, but few have Frequently Answered Questions (FAQ) links. Library association web sites are categorised into three groups: high, medium and low, with significant differences between and within the three groups. A combination of criteria scores and classified groups shows that among the 15 criteria, only four criteria have no significant difference between the three groups and the classified groups are heterogeneous based on 11 criteria.

Research limitations/implications

Only 71 library association web sites were analysed is this study.

Originality/value

The paper provides a three category classification for library associations web sites.
Personal information management practices of students and its implications for library services
Authors: Osae Otopah Francis , Dadzie Perpetua
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The aim of this study is to investigate the personal information management (PIM) practices of students and its implications for library services at the University of Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach

This was a survey research, and questionnaires were administered to 150 students across their various programs of study. Questionnaire design was based on the literature reviewed and research objectives.

Findings

Results showed that, format, skills, size of collection, memory, and habits accounted for diverse PIM practices among students. Among the major drawbacks were inadequate skills, information fragmentation, inappropriate habits, and imperfect memory. These aspects when improved, would enhance the effectiveness of students' PIM practices tremendously.

Research limitations/implications

The study adopted the PIM framework developed by James and Teevan and focused on the core activities of PIM namely: keeping, organizing and re‐finding. In order to provide a fair rounded picture of the PIM situation of students, it is expected that subsequent studies would cover the remaining variables notably‐ information maintenance; selection and implementation of a scheme; managing privacy and the flow of information; matters of security; measurement and evaluation; and making sense of things.

Practical implications

The study concludes that, through comprehensive information literacy training programmes offered by libraries; student‐oriented PIM researches; the formation of PIM clubs spearheaded by librarians and supported by university administrators, benevolent organizations and individuals, the PIM practices of students can be made better. PIM efforts should aim at shaping, improving, integrating and supporting students' PIM habits, skills, personal information collections and memories respectively.

Originality/value

PIM practices of students is among the least explored topics in the field of library and information studies in Ghana. This research would not only create awareness about PIM practices, but would also draw attention to the efforts that can be made to improve PIM practices of students in Ghana.
The implementation of internet filtering in Scottish public libraries
Authors: Brown Graeme , McMenemy David
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the way that Scottish public library authorities are implementing filtering software as a public access internet management tool. The aim of the study is to determine the extent to which filtering systems are used as a public access internet management tool and to examine the nature of this implementation. This constitutes an analysis of the actual policies and procedures in place within each library authority to manage public access to the internet.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper utilizes a literature review and an analysis of data supplied by the public library services. The data required was gathered through Freedom of Information requests sent to all Scottish public library authorities.

Findings

A total of 31 of the 32 public library services operating within the 32 Scottish local authorities utilized some form of filtering software to control internet access. The main justifications cited for this were to prevent access to illegal or inappropriate materials; however it was found that in the majority of cases the decision to implement the software was not made by the management of the library but external IT staff. This raises major issues related to the historical role of the librarian as selector of content for their community.

Research limitations/implications

The paper presents results from a subset of local authorities in the UK, thus cannot claim to be anything more than indicative of the geographic sample.

Practical implications

The findings can help inform the rationale utilized by public library services in implementing filtering policies.

Originality/value

This paper is the only paper to directly address the issue of internet filtering in all public libraries in Scotland.
A pilot study on food composition of five Turkish traditional foods
Authors: Biringen Löker Gül , Amoutzopoulos Birdem , Özge Özkoç Semin , Özer Hayrettin , Şatir Gülçin , Bakan Ayşe
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe methodology and practices undertaken during a pilot study on food composition of Turkish traditional foods (TTF).

Design/methodology/approach

The pilot study was conducted under the European Food Information Resource Network (EuroFIR) Project for the systemic investigation of traditional foods. As a partner country of the EuroFIR, Turkey has selected five traditional foods, tarhana soup, yoğurtlu kebap (kebab with yoghurt), hamsi buğulama (anchovy stew), pastırma, and baklava. The traditional recipes of the selected foods were recorded by field studies. Nutritional composition of foods was determined by chemical analyses.

Findings

Information on the identification, sampling, sample handling, and analysis was collected for each of the selected foods. The food composition data were evaluated by using EuroFIR standards, and the recommended dietary allowances (RDA) for nutritents. Five TTF were meeting with various nutrient recommendations.

Originality/value

This pilot study on the systemic investigation of traditional foods would be an example for further traditional food studies in Turkey and would enable the generation of reliable, representative and sufficient quality data on TTF.
Understanding efficiencies behind logistics service providers' green offerings
Authors: Isaksson Karin , Huge‐Brodin Maria
Published: March 2013

Purpose

Awareness of environmental impacts on society is increasing among companies. In order to turn environmental problems into business opportunities, many companies are beginning to consider how environmental, or green aspects can be integrated into their service offerings. This opportunity can be of specific interest to logistics service providers, whose core business is an environmental impact in itself. The purpose of this article is to indicate where green‐labelled logistics service providers are positioned today in their development, and to seek the underlying rationale in development of green service offerings.

Design/methodology/approach

This article takes a logistics service provider's perspective and is based on a multiple case study of six companies. The analysis is based on cross‐case analysis, and empirical, as well as theoretical, pattern matching.

Findings

The attitude towards a green approach differs among the case companies: while some are working towards a green integration throughout the entire business, others offer green alternatives to the original service offering. The results point to possible explanations for these differences, and include differences in range of service offerings, size, and to different management principles for green aspects.

Practical implications

The article can inspire logistics service providers in their continuing work to integrate green initiatives into the company. By introducing alternative green approaches in the development of service offerings, logistics service providers can match their own business and context with alternative rationales.

Originality/value

While most of the green logistics research focuses on the logistics system's characteristics, this article offers initial insights into how the integration of green aspects into logistics services can impact logistics service providers.
The impact of physical changes on customer behavior
Authors: Mobach Mark P.
Published: March 2013

Purpose

This paper's aim is to determine whether shopping facilities in a waiting area influence customer behaviour and whether these behaviours positively influence their satisfaction and related sales of the displayed products.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach used was a field experiment. At two sites patient behaviours were directly observed before a reconstruction of waiting areas during two weeks; at both sites a two‐week follow‐up was performed after the reconstruction. The responses of patients were surveyed in a convenience sample in the same periods of weeks and the data on sales were collected with desk research.

Findings

In comparison with waiting areas that were almost empty, customers in a waiting area with shopping facilities had more interaction with the physical environment, experienced a shorter wait, were more satisfied with the prompt taking of orders, and spent more money.

Practical implications

Organizations seeking to positively influence patient behaviour during the wait should take into account the quality of facility design of waiting areas and, if well chosen, these facilities can also be used to positively influence satisfaction and sales.

Originality/value

This paper integrates theories from environmental psychology, marketing, and operations management in facility design to improve the properties of a waiting area, and by doing so, improve behaviour, satisfaction, and sales of customers. The study aims to inform marketers in the pharmacy shop sector allowing them to increase interaction with the shopping environment, improve customers' satisfaction, and raise customers' expenditures with facilities.