bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Commander-in-Chief Test
Authors: Friedman Jeffrey A.
Published: June 2024

This book offers a fresh explanation for why Americans are often frustrated by the cost and scope of US foreign policy—and how we can fix that for the future. Americans frequently criticize US foreign policy for being overly costly and excessively militaristic. With its rising defense budgets and open-ended “forever wars,” US foreign policy often appears disconnected from public opinion, reflecting the views of elites and special interests rather than the attitudes of ordinary citizens. The book argues that this conventional wisdom underestimates the role public opinion plays in shaping foreign policy. Voters may prefer to elect leaders who share their policy views, but they prioritize selecting presidents who seem to have the right personal attributes to be an effective commander in chief. Leaders then use hawkish foreign policies as tools for showing that they are tough enough to defend America's interests on the international stage. This link between leaders' policy positions and their personal images steers US foreign policy in directions that are more hawkish than what voters actually want. Combining polling data with survey experiments and original archival research on cases from the Vietnam War through the occupations of Iraq and Afghanistan, the book demonstrates that public opinion plays a surprisingly extensive—and often problematic—role in shaping US international behavior. The book offers important lessons on how the politics of image-making impacts foreign policy and how the public should choose its president.
Rematch: A novel regex engine for finding all matches
Authors:   , Van Sint Jan Campos Nicolás Andre
Published: June 2024

En esta tesis presentamos el sistema REmatch para la extraccion de información. REmatch esta basado en un algoritmo de enumeración recientemente propuesto para evaluar expresiones regulares con variables de captura que soportan la semantica de encontrar todos los resultados. Se expone lo necesario para hacer que un algoritmo teóricamente óptimo funcione en la práctica. Como mostraremos, una implementación ingenua del algoritmo original tendría dificultades para lidiar con cargas de trabajo realistas. Dado lo anterior, desarrollamos un nuevo algoritmo y una serie de optimizaciones que hacen que REmatch sea tan o mas rápido que muchos motores RegEx populares, al mismo tiempo que puede devolver todos los resultados, una tarea con la que la mayoría de los otros motores suele tener problemas.
Incorporando dinámicas de no aparición en la programación de sesiones de quimioterapia
Authors:   ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Escuela de Ingeniería, Lozano Moore Francisco José
Published: June 2024

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide and the demand for chemotherapy treatments is growing faster than the capacity health centers have to provide them. Consequently, it is imperative to identify efficient resource management practices for the inter-day scheduling of chemotherapy sessions. We approach the inter-day chemotherapy scheduling problem through a three-step solution approach. First, we reclaim future resources tied to treatments disrupted by patient no-shows. Second, we identify patients for whom current wait times can be reduced. Third, we employ a proactive scheduling policy obtained through the resolution of a Markov decision process via approximate dynamic programming techniques. Using data from the UC CHRISTUS Health Network, we present a case study that demonstrates the impact of no-shows on health systems and the potential benefits that can be obtained from the use the proposed solution approach. From the results, we can conclude that our approach leads to substantial improvements in multiple aspects of outpatient chemotherapy operations. Specifically, the proposed approach achieves a discounted operational cost reduction of 22.3% and a 32.6% reduction in average waiting times when compared with existing algorithms. The results allow us to conclude that there are multiple benefits associated with incorporating no-shows into the problem’s resolution and that the proposed solution approach not only reduces discounted operational costs, but also improves the level of service offered to patients.
La sangre y la expiación: territorio y subjetividad en El desenlace de Edesio Alvarado
Authors:   , Alvarado Fuentes Sebastián Ignacio
Published: June 2024

La presente investigación tiene como objetivo analizar la relación entre territorio y subjetividad en la novela El desenlace (1973) del escritor calbucano Edesio Alvarado. Específicamente, se aborda el modo en el que los personajes se constituyen a partir de su interacción con el sur austral de Chile, en particular con la zona fronteriza de la Región de Aysén, en el contexto de la primera mitad del siglo XX. Se postula, al respecto, que la obra sostiene una noción de sujeto que, al enfrentarse a ciertas características materiales e históricas, erige una conciencia singular de su propia existencia, que se enfoca en el hecho de prevalecer ante la adversidad. Bajo otra arista, también se propone, posterior a revisar los componentes de las distintas vertientes del género policial, que el relato difiere del esquema clásico del mismo y, por lo tanto, se puede considerar más cercano a la novela negra.En un sentido metodológico, considerando que El desenlace, en lo relativo a su composición, por un lado, utiliza, para representar la subjetividad de los personajes, procedimientos narrativos que se distinguen por sus cualidades sintácticas, y que, por otro, describe un conjunto de experiencias estéticas que considera propias de la zona, la investigación se orienta a explicar las particularidades de ambas dimensiones del relato, para luego, además, abordar cómo estas se relacionan en pos de construir un mundo ficcional que sostiene una mirada distintiva del sur del país.
Guided internet-based intervention for postpartum depression symptoms: Development and feasibility trial
Authors:   , Franco Vivanco Pamela Verónica
Published: June 2024

Postpartum depression (PPD) represents a significant concern in Chile due to its high prevalence and considerable treatment gap. Amidst this challenge, the prevalent use of digital technologies and parenting applications offers new avenues for delivering Internet-based psychological interventions (IBIs), which have shown effectiveness in mitigating depression symptoms and hold potential for addressing PPD. This doctoral thesis project embarked on developing and assessing an IBI tailored for PPD, named “Mamá, te entiendo” (“Mom, I get you”). This 8-week guided intervention, aiming to diminish depressive symptoms among postpartum women, is rooted in cognitive-behavioral therapy, incorporating insights from mentalization and attachment theories, and delivered through a web app. Developed in line with the CeHRes Roadmap framework, this human-centered approach involved a systematic review, online surveys, focus groups, usability tests, interviews, and a technical pilot for its creation. To assess the intervention’s feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy, a pilot randomized controlled trial with 65 postpartum women diagnosed with minor to major depression was conducted. Participants were allocated to either the intervention or a waitlist control group, with assessments at the baseline, post-intervention (8 weeks), and one-month post-intervention (12 weeks). This mixed-methods approach combined quantitative and qualitative analyses to gain insights into participant experiences. Primary outcomes focused on feasibility and acceptability measures like recruitment rates, attrition, and participant satisfaction and engagement. Secondary outcomes examined depression symptoms, perceived social support, mother-infant bonding, and maternal self-efficacy. “Mamá, te entiendo” showed promising feasibility and acceptability, characterized by high satisfaction and engagement levels, although adherence posed a challenge. Participants highlighted several strengths: emotional support, beneficial content, practical exercises, empathetic e-coach feedback, and a user-friendly interface. However, some faced barriers like extensive texts, difficulty tracking progress, and time constraints. Initial efficacy findings indicated no significant differences across outcomes between the intervention and control groups. Nonetheless, both groups experienced improvements in PPD symptoms, mother-infant bonding, and maternal self-efficacy, which could be attributed to spontaneous recovery or concurrent mental health treatments. This study marks the first attempt in Chile to evaluate a psychological IBI for PPD symptoms, underscoring the potential and acceptability of technology-driven mental health solutions.
Optimization of Nitrogen Fertilizer Dose for the Growth and Development of BRRI Dhan47
Authors: Afroz Nice , Zomo Shakil Arvin , Zaman Jesmin , Reza Md. Obayedul Hoque , Kayess Md. Omar
Published: June 2024

An experiment was conducted at the Agronomy Field Laboratory of Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh during the period to study the effect of nitrogen on the yield of Boro rice cv. BRRI dhan47. The experiment consisted of four levels of nitrogen viz. 0, 80, 100, and 120 kg N ha-1 as treatment. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The level of nitrogen significantly influenced all the parameters except the weight of 1000-grain. The tallest plant (99.18 cm), highest number of total tillers hill­1 (13.23), maximum number of non-effective tillers hill-1 (4.18), uppermost panicle length (24.60 cm), highest number of sterile spikelets panicle-1 (18.50), top number of total spikelets panicle-1 (153.82) and highest straw yield (6.84 t ha-1) were obtained from 120 kg N ha-1. The greater number of effective tillers hill-1 (10.32), uppermost number of grains panicle-1 (135.32), maximum grain yield (5.36 t ha-1), top biological yield (12.01 t ha-1), and the highest harvest index (44.59%) were recorded from 100 kg N ha-1. The dwarf plant (84.47 cm), lowest number of total tillers hill-1 (7.40), minimum number of effective tillers hill-1 (5.83), bottommost non-effective tillers hill-1 (1.57),  shortest panicle length (21.09), lowest number of grains panicle-1 (84.90), minimum number of sterile spikelets panicle-1 (11.90), fewer total spikelets panicle-1 (100.88), the minimum grain yield (3.20 t ha-1), the least straw yield (4.67 t ha-1),  lowest biological yield (7.87 t ha-1) and the lowest harvest index (40.71%) were obtained from the control treatment (0 kg N ha-1). Based on the findings of the study, it can be suggested that the use of 100 kg N ha-1 would be a promising practice to maximize the growth and grain yield of BRRI dhan47.
Equal Sums of Four Even Powers
Authors: Simatwo Kimtai Boaz
Published: June 2024

Let u, v, w, z,  k, m and I be any integers such that k = z - w = w - v = v - u . The study of integer I for which I = u2n + v2n + w2n + z2n = k2 + m2 + r2 is not known. This study is therefore, set to partially overcome this challenge by introducing new formula relating sums of four even powers as an exact sum of three squares.
Investigation of Nitrogen Levels and Row Spacing on Growth and Yield of Mustard Crop Variety VNR 509: A Case Study
Authors: Dekhane Swapnil S. , Kumar Narendra , Pisal Rahul R.
Published: June 2024

Objective: To investigate the effect of varying nitrogen levels and row spacings on the growth and yield of the mustard crop (variety VNR 509).
Methods: The experimental trial was conducted during the rabi season at ASPEE Agricultural Research and Development Foundation (ARDF) in the north Konkan region of Maharashtra, India. A factorial randomized block design (FRBD) with three replications was employed to test different combinations of treatments.
Results: The study found a significant influence of nitrogen levels and row spacings on mustard growth and yield. Specifically, applying 90 kg N per hectare at a row spacing of 45 cm x 10 cm resulted in optimal plant growth and yield. Higher nitrogen doses and wider row spacings increased plant height, branch development, and the number of seeds per siliquae. Conversely, reducing row spacing increased the number of pods per plant
Conclusion: The findings suggest that a balanced approach in nitrogen application and row spacing can significantly enhance mustard crop yield and quality. These insights can aid in developing cultivation strategies for similar crops to achieve higher yields and maintain crop quality.
Spatial and Temporal Trend Analysis of Precipitation and Temperature Data in Malwa Region of Kshipra River Basin, India
Authors: Meena Pramod Kumar , Khare Deepak , Chandniha Surendra Kumar , V Harithalekshmi
Published: June 2024

This study investigated trends in climatic variables, such as rainfall and temperature (mean, maximum, and minimum), on both annual and seasonal basis (pre-monsoon, monsoon, post-monsoon, winter) at four stations viz. Mahidpur, Alot, Dewas, and Indore in the Kshipra River basin, India. Using the non-parametric Mann-Kendall test and Sen’s slope estimator, trends were analyzed for data from 1980 to 2012. The analysis revealed statistically significant positive trends in maximum, minimum, and average temperatures on both annual and winter scales across all stations. Additionally, a significant positive trend in average temperature was observed in the post-monsoon season, except at Alot station. The annual trend magnitude for average temperature (Tavg) ranged from 0.020°C/year (Indore) to 0.024°C/year (Mahidpur). Rainfall trends on an annual scale showed a non-significant increase at Indore and Alot, while Mahidpur and Dewas exhibited a decreasing trend. Over the 32 year period, 2000 and 1993 were identified as breakpoint years for rainfall and temperature, respectively. From 1993 to 2012, annual minimum, maximum, and average temperatures increased by approximately 1.5%. Findings of this study can be used as a valuable information for water resource and crop planning, policy making and preparation of contingency plans.
Harnessing Earth's Green Guardians: Exploring Carbon Sequestration in Agricultural Practices
Authors: Patil Pratiksha , Shalini  , J T Deepika , N S Saniga , Kumar Sanjeev , R Tejaswini , Siddiqua Ayesha , Behera Himanshu Sekhar
Published: June 2024

The article for delves into the critical role of sustainable agriculture in mitigating climate change. It examines innovative farming techniques that enhance carbon sequestration, the process by which CO2 is captured and stored in the soil and biomass. By integrating practices such as cover cropping, agroforestry, and no-till farming, the research highlights how these methods can significantly reduce atmospheric carbon levels. The study underscores the dual benefits of these techniques, not only in improving soil health and crop yields but also in contributing to global efforts to curb greenhouse gas emissions. Through a combination of field experiments and modelling, the findings provide compelling evidence for policymakers and farmers to adopt these green practices, positioning agriculture as a pivotal player in the fight against climate change.
Influence of N, P, K, Rhizobium and Vermicompost on Soil Health Parameters and Yield of Green Gram (Vigna radiata L.) var. Samrat
Authors: Kapat Tanubrata , David Arun Alfred , Dawson Joy , Thomas Tarence , Toppo Neha , Chowdhury Bidisha , Sen Paritosh , Kushwaha Raghvendra Kumar
Published: June 2024

An experiment was conducted on “Influence of N, P, K, Rhizobium and Vermicompost on Soil Health Parameters and Yield of Green Gram (Vigna radiata L.) var. Samrat”. during zaid season 2023-2024 at the central research farm, department research farm of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, The design applied was 3x3 RBD having three levels each of vermicompost and N.P.K i.e., 0, 50, and 100% respectively and three levels of rhizobium treated seed @ 0, 50, 100%. The result obtained in treatment T9 (N25P50K25 kg ha-1 + vermicompost @ 5 t ha-1 and rhizobium @ 200g 10 kg-1) has showed a slight change in soil pH i.e., 6.79 and EC i.e., 0.208 dS m-1. The post-harvest soil samples have showed significant increase in pore space, water holding capacity and organic carbon i.e., about 49.20 %, 47.59 % and 0.49 % respectively. Whereas available N, P and K found to be 334.12 kg ha-1, 34.36 kg ha-1, and 204.28 kg ha-1 respectively. The increase in NPK (kg ha-1) was found to be significant among all treatments in green gram cultivation and soil quality improvement. The best results among all treatment combination with respect to plant height (65.76 cm), number of leaves plant-1 (44.34), number of branches plant-1 (14.58), number of grain pod-1 (14.28), number of pod plant-1 (42.11) and seed yield q ha-1 (16.67) were found in treatment combination T9 (N25P50K25 kg ha-1 + vermicompost @ 5 t ha-1 and Rhizobium @ 200g 10 kg-1. T9 gave the highest gross return with ₹ 1,49,030 and the benefit of ₹ 29,849.13 with highest cost benefit ratio i.e., 1:1.38. vermicompost along with other combinations has showed improvement in soil health as well as in crop development and yield. Study has also revealed that the application of  N, P, and K with vermicompost was an excellent source for fertilization than sole fertilizers.
The Correlation between Severity of Acanthosis Nigricans and Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Ahluwalia Daisy , Khunger Niti , Lachyan Abhishek , Prathibha Kuchana , Goyal Abhay
Published: June 2024

Background: Acanthosis Nigricans (AN) is a dermatologic manifestation characterized by hyperpigmentation and thickening of the skin, commonly observed in body folds. While traditionally considered a cutaneous marker of insulin resistance, recent studies have hinted at broader metabolic implications associated with AN. Understanding the intricate connections between AN and various metabolic parameters is crucial for comprehensive patient care and management.
Purpose: The primary objective of this study was to investigate the metabolic associations of Acanthosis Nigricans, with a specific emphasis on its correlation with obesity, insulin resistance (IR), and metabolic syndrome (METS). The aim was to provide insights into the interplay between AN severity and metabolic health indicators, particularly focusing on the 18-40 age group and the impact on the neck area.
Methods: The study employed a cross-sectional design, involving a diverse sample of participants within the 18-40 age range. Data collection included detailed clinical assessments, anthropometric measurements, biochemical analyses, and ultrasound evaluations. Statistical analyses explored associations between AN severity, obesity, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, and other relevant metabolic parameters.
Results: The study found a high prevalence of AN in the 18-40 age group, primarily affecting the neck area. Significant associations were observed between AN and metabolic derangements such as obesity, hypertension, hyperinsulinemia, and type 2 diabetes. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome in AN cases was 20.0%, with ultrasound changes like fatty liver and polycystic ovary syndrome noted in 13.3% of the participants.
Conclusion: The findings highlight the importance of recognizing the broader impact of AN on metabolic health beyond its traditional association with insulin resistance. The intricate interplay between AN and various metabolic parameters, including abnormal insulin levels, BMI, ultrasound findings, and metabolic syndrome, underscores the complexity of this dermatologic manifestation. It is crucial to shift the focus from AN severity alone to a comprehensive understanding of its multifaceted connections with systemic metabolic health.
Efficacy and safety of saxagliptin in drug‐naïve Asian patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Pan Chang Yu , Yang Wenying , Tou Conrad , Gause‐Nilsson Ingrid , Zhao June
Published: November 2011

Background

Few studies have assessed the use of new oral anti‐diabetic agents in Asian populations. This study assesses the efficacy and safety of saxagliptin versus placebo in Asian patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Materials and Methods

Five hundred sixty‐eight drug‐naïve adult patients with T2DM and glycated haemoglobin levels (HbA1c) of 7.0–10.0% (53–86 mmol/mol) were randomized 1 : 1 to receive saxagliptin 5 mg daily or placebo. Efficacy endpoints included changes from baseline to week 24 in HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), post‐prandial glucose area under the curve from 0 to 180 min (PPG AUC0–180), and the proportion of patients achieving HbA1c <7.0% (53 mmol/mol). Adverse events (AEs) and serious AEs (SAEs) were evaluated.

Results

Saxagliptin provided statistically significant adjusted mean decreases from baseline to week 24 compared with placebo, respectively, in HbA1c (−0.84% [−9 mmol/mol] versus −0.34% [−4 mmol/mol]; p < 0.0001), FPG (−0.90 versus −0.17 mmol/L; p < 0.0001), and PPG AUC0–180 (−417 versus −235 mmol · min/L; p = 0.0010). A significantly greater proportion of patients achieved a therapeutic glycaemic response (HbA1c <7.0% [53 mmol/mol]) with saxagliptin (45.8%) versus placebo (28.8%; p < 0.0001). The proportions of patients who experienced ≥1 AE (excluding hypoglycaemia) was 43.3% for saxagliptin and 35.6% for placebo. Few patients in either treatment group experienced an SAE (2.8%, saxagliptin; 1.4%, placebo). A low proportion of patients reported hypoglycaemic events (1.8%, saxagliptin; 0.7%, placebo).

Conclusions

Saxagliptin improved glycaemic control and was well tolerated in drug‐naïve Asian patients with T2DM. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Snowmelt variability in Polar Bear Pass, Nunavut, Canada, from QuikSCAT: 2000–2009
Authors: Howell Stephen E. L. , Assini Jane , Young Kathy L. , Abnizova Anna , Derksen Chris
Published: November 2011

Snowmelt onset and end date estimates are made from QuikSCAT scatterometer measurements in the Canadian High Arctic wetland of Polar Bear Pass (PBP) and the surrounding region of Bathurst Island, Nunavut. In situ data within PBP is used to validate QuikSCAT snowmelt onset/end date estimates. Results indicate that within PBP from 2000 to 2009, the mean snowmelt onset date was Year Day (YD) 162, the mean snowmelt end date was YD179, and the mean snowmelt duration was 17 days. More interannual variability was apparent in snowmelt end date and duration compared with onset, and only snowmelt end date was significantly correlated with mean June air temperature at −0.78. Cooler air temperatures in 2004 contributed to a long snowmelt duration of 24 days, and the very short snowmelt duration in 2007 of just 11 days was caused by rapid and sustained increases in air temperature. For snowmelt end date and duration the mean spatial pattern revealed two centres of later snowmelt end date/longer snowmelt duration over Bathurst Island. They were separated by early snowmelt end date/short snowmelt duration in PBP. These patterns are in agreement with the spatial distribution of mean May to July air temperature over Bathurst Island and are likely influenced by the local‐scale topography of Bathurst Island. Given the correlation between air temperature and snowmelt end date, we might expect quicker snowmelt under increased warming. The latter process may have implications for the sustainability of the PBP wetland under a warmer climate. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Turkey's Rise as a Regional Power
Authors: Bechev Dimitar
Published: November 2011

Turkey has become a regional power, thanks to its economic success and democratic achievements catalysed by the EU. Under the AKP, the Turkish neighbourhood policy has grown increasingly assertive, especially in the Middle East. Yet the Arab Spring caught Turkey, much like the West, off guard. As a result Ankara is recalibrating its foreign policy. This presents a chance to rein-vigorate relations with the EU and the US despite tensions and challenges.
Novel pathogenic role of fibrin as revealed by a case study on ligneous gingivitis
Authors: Shimo Tsuyoshi , Nishiyama Akiyoshi , Kubota Satoshi , Kurio Naito , Okui Tatsuo , Katase Naoki , Hassan Nur Mohammad Monsur , Honami Tatsuki , Kishimoto Koji , Mese Hiroshi , Takigawa Masaharu , Sasaki Akira
Published: November 2011

Purpose of the research: Ligneous gingivitis is a rare disease characterized by nodular gingival enlargement secondary to fibrin deposits induced by micro‐injury in the gingiva, which disorder results from plasminogen (PLG) deficiency. Although none have investigated the association of wound healing factors with ligneous gingivitis. In this study, in addition to a histopathologic examination of ligneous gingivitis in a case of type I PLG deficiency, we further present data showing the effect of wound healing factors in association with fibrin in vitro to clarify the pathobiology of ligneous gingivitis in PLG‐deficient patients.

Principle results: Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β1, connective tissue growth factor/CCN2 (CCN2), and endothelin‐1 (ET‐1) had accumulated in the extracellular matrix around the epithelial and fibroblastic cells near the fibrin deposition. Consistent with these results, fibrin and TGF‐β1 synergistically up‐regulated CCN2 and ET‐1 gene expression in human dermal fibroblasts.

Major conclusions: Fibrin plays a vicious role in ligneous gingivitis pathobiology by up‐regulating CCN2 and ET‐1 expression through the TGF‐β signaling pathway.
Arginine residues at internal positions in a protein are always charged
Authors: Harms Michael J. , Schlessman Jamie L. , Sue Gloria R. , García-Moreno E. Bertrand
Published: November 2011

Many functionally essential ionizable groups are buried in the hydrophobic interior of proteins. A systematic study of Lys, Asp, and Glu residues at 25 internal positions in staphylococcal nuclease showed that their pK
a
values can be highly anomalous, some shifted by as many as 5.7 pH units relative to normal pK
a
values in water. Here we show that, in contrast, Arg residues at the same internal positions exhibit no detectable shifts in pK
a
; they are all charged at pH ≤ 10. Twenty-three of these 25 variants with Arg are folded at both pH 7 and 10. The mean decrease in thermodynamic stability from substitution with Arg was 6.2 kcal/mol at this pH, comparable to that for substitution with Lys, Asp, or Glu at pH 7. The physical basis behind the remarkable ability of Arg residues to remain protonated in environments otherwise incompatible with charges is suggested by crystal structures of three variants showing how the guanidinium moiety of the Arg side chain is effectively neutralized through multiple hydrogen bonds to protein polar atoms and to site-bound water molecules. The length of the Arg side chain, and slight deformations of the protein, facilitate placement of the guanidinium moieties near polar groups or bulk water. This unique capacity of Arg side chains to retain their charge in dehydrated environments likely contributes toward the important functional roles of internal Arg residues in situations where a charge is needed in the interior of a protein, in a lipid bilayer, or in similarly hydrophobic environments.
US Hospital Requirements for Pertussis Vaccination of Healthcare Personnel, 2011
Authors: Miller Brady L. , Ahmed Faruque , Lindley Megan C. , Wortley Pascale M.
Published: November 2011

In 2011, institutional requirements for pertussis vaccination of healthcare personnel were reported by nearly one-third of surveyed US hospitals. Requirements often applied to personnel with certain clinical responsibilities, such as those caring for infants. Healthcare personnel who were not on an institution's payroll were rarely subject to pertussis vaccination requirements.
Oceanicaulis stylophorae sp. nov., isolated from the reef-building coral Stylophora pistillata
Authors: Chen Ming-Hui , Sheu Shih-Yi , Chen Chaolun Allen , Wang Jih-Terng , Chen Wen-Ming
Published: November 2011

A bacterial strain designated GISW-4T was isolated from the reef-building coral Stylophora pistillata, collected from seawater off the coast of southern Taiwan, and was characterized in this taxonomic study using a polyphasic approach. Strain GISW-4T was Gram-stain-negative, aerobic, beige, rod-shaped, and dimorphic, either non-motile with stalks (or prosthecae), or non-stalked and motile by means of a single polar flagellum. 16S rRNA gene sequence studies showed that the novel strain clustered with

Oceanicaulis alexandrii

C116-18T (98.9 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity). Strain GISW-4T exhibited optimal growth at 35–40 °C, 1–2 % (w/v) NaCl and at pH 7–9. The predominant cellular fatty acids (>10 %) were C18 : 0, C18 : 1ω7c and C18 : 1ω7c 11-methyl. The predominant polar lipids were phosphatidylglycerol, sulfoquinovosyl diacylglycerol and two unknown phospholipids (PL1–2). The major respiratory quinones were ubiquinone Q-10 and Q-9, and the DNA G+C content was 61.6 mol%. The results of physiological and biochemical tests allowed clear phenotypic differentiation of strain GISW-4T from the type strain of

O. alexandrii

. It is evident from the genotypic, phenotypic and chemotaxonomic data that the isolate should be classified as a novel species of the genus

Oceanicaulis

. The name proposed for this taxon is Oceanicaulis stylophorae sp. nov., with the type strain GISW-4T ( = LMG 25723T = BCRC 80207T).
Luteolibacter luojiensis sp. nov., isolated from Arctic tundra soil, and emended description of the genus

Luteolibacter
Authors: Jiang Fan , Li Wenjuan , Xiao Mengchen , Dai Jun , Kan Wenjing , Chen Lu , Li Wenxin , Fang Chengxiang , Peng Fang
Published: November 2011

A yellow-pigmented, Gram-reaction-negative, non-motile, aerobic bacterium, designated DR4-30T, was isolated from tundra soil near Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard Archipelago, Norway (78° 58′ N 12° 03′ E). Growth occurred at 4–28 °C (optimum 20–25 °C) and at pH 7–8 (optimum pH 7). Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that strain DR4-30T belongs to the genus

Luteolibacter

in the family

Verrucomicrobiaceae

. The 16S rRNA gene sequence of this strain showed 95.4 and 94.7 % sequence similarity to those of

Luteolibacter pohnpeiensis

A4T-83T and

Luteolibacter algae

A5J-41-2T, respectively. The major respiratory quinones were MK-9 and MK-10; the predominant cellular fatty acids were summed feature 3 (C16 : 1ω7c and/or C16 : 1ω6c; 20.7 %), iso-C14 : 0 (20.3 %), C17 : 0 (10.7 %), C16 : 0 (8.0 %) and C14 : 0 (6.6 %). The DNA G+C content was 57.3 mol%. On the basis of phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and phylogenetic data, strain DR4-30T represents a novel species of the genus

Luteolibacter

, for which the name Luteolibacter luojiensis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is DR4-30T ( = CCTCC AB 2010415T  = NRRL B-59669T). An emended description of the genus Luteolibacter is also provided.
Pricia antarctica gen. nov., sp. nov., a member of the family

Flavobacteriaceae

, isolated from Antarctic intertidal sediment
Authors: Yu Yong , Li Hui-Rong , Zeng Yin-Xin , Sun Kun , Chen Bo
Published: November 2011

A yellow-coloured, rod-shaped, Gram-reaction- and Gram-staining-negative, non-motile and aerobic bacterium, designated strain ZS1-8T, was isolated from a sample of sandy intertidal sediment collected from the Antarctic coast. Flexirubin-type pigments were absent. In phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene sequences, strain ZS1-8T formed a distinct phyletic line and the results indicated that the novel strain should be placed in a new genus within the family

Flavobacteriaceae

. In pairwise comparisons between strain ZS1-8T and recognized species, the levels of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity were all <93.3 %. The strain required Ca2+ and K+ ions as well as NaCl for growth. Optimal growth was observed at pH 7.5–8.0, 17–19 °C and with 2–3 % (w/v) NaCl. The major fatty acids were iso-C15 : 1 G, iso-C15 : 0, summed feature 3 (iso-C15 : 0 2-OH and/or C16 : 1ω7c), an unknown acid with an equivalent chain-length of 13.565 and iso-C17 : 0 3-OH. The major respiratory quinone was MK-6. The predominant polar lipid was phosphatidylethanolamine. The genomic DNA G+C content was 43.9 mol%. Based on the phylogenetic, phenotypic and chemotaxonomic data, strain ZS1-8T represents a novel species in a new genus in the family

Flavobacteriaceae

for which the name Pricia antarctica gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of the type species is ZS1-8T ( = JCM 17291T = DSM 23421T).
Cecembia lonarensis gen. nov., sp. nov., a haloalkalitolerant bacterium of the family

Cyclobacteriaceae

, isolated from a haloalkaline lake and emended descriptions of the genera

Indibacter

,

Nitritalea

and

Belliella
Authors: Anil Kumar P. , Srinivas T. N. R. , Madhu S. , Sravan R. , Singh Shashi , Naqvi S. W. A. , Mayilraj S. , Shivaji S.
Published: November 2011

A novel Gram-staining-negative, rod-shaped, non-motile bacterium, designated strain LW9T, was isolated from a water sample collected from Lonar Lake of Buldhana district, Maharashtra, India. Colonies and broth cultures were reddish orange due to the presence of carotenoid pigments. Strain LW9T was positive for catalase, ornithine decarboxylase and lysine decarboxylase activities and negative for gelatinase, oxidase, urease and lipase activities. The predominant fatty acids were iso-C15 : 0 (31.3 %), iso-C16 : 0 (9.3 %), anteiso-C15 : 0 (7.3 %), iso-C16 : 1 H (6.1 %), summed feature 3 (comprising C16 : 1ω7c/C16 : 1ω6c; 5.9 %), iso-C17 : 1ω9c (5.4 %) and iso-C17 : 0 3-OH (5.0 %). Strain LW9T contained MK-7 as the major respiratory quinone. The polar lipids consisted of phosphatidylethanolamine, two unidentified aminolipids and seven unidentified lipids. The DNA G+C content of strain LW9T was 40.5 mol%. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis indicated that the type strains of

Indibacter alkaliphilus

and

Aquiflexum balticum

, two members of the family

Cyclobacteriaceae

(phylum ‘

Bacteroidetes

’) were the most closely related strains with sequence similarities of 93.0 and 94.0 %, respectively. Other members of the family

Cyclobacteriaceae

showed sequence similarities <93.0 %. Based on these phenotypic characteristics and on phylogenetic inference, strain LW9T is proposed as the representative of novel species in a new genus, Cecembia lonarensis gen. nov., sp. nov. The type strain of the type species, Cecembia lonarensis, is LW9T ( = CCUG 58316T = KCTC 22772T). Emended descriptions of the genera

Indibacter

,

Nitritalea

and

Belliella

are also proposed.
Repression of Sucrose/Ultraviolet B Light-Induced Flavonoid Accumulation in Microbe-Associated Molecular Pattern-Triggered Immunity in Arabidopsis
Authors: Serrano Mario , Kanehara Kazue , Torres Martha , Yamada Kohji , Tintor Nico , Kombrink Erich , Schulze-Lefert Paul , Saijo Yusuke
Published: November 2011

Recognition of microbe-associated molecular patterns (MAMPs) leads to the generation of MAMP-triggered immunity (MTI), which restricts the invasion and propagation of potentially infectious microbes. It has been described that the perception of different bacterial and fungal MAMPs causes the repression of flavonoid induction upon light stress or sucrose application. However, the functional significance of this MTI-associated signaling output remains unknown. In Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana), FLAGELLIN-SENSING2 (FLS2) and EF-TU RECEPTOR act as the pattern recognition receptors for the bacterial MAMP epitopes flg22 (of flagellin) and elf18 (of elongation factor [EF]-Tu), respectively. Here, we reveal that reactive oxygen species spiking and callose deposition are dispensable for the repression of flavonoid accumulation by both pattern recognition receptors. Importantly, FLS2-triggered activation of PATHOGENESIS-RELATED (PR) genes and bacterial basal defenses are enhanced in transparent testa4 plants that are devoid of flavonoids, providing evidence for a functional contribution of flavonoid repression to MTI. Moreover, we identify nine small molecules, of which eight are structurally unrelated, that derepress flavonoid accumulation in the presence of flg22. These compounds allowed us to dissect the FLS2 pathway. Remarkably, one of the identified compounds uncouples flavonoid repression and PR gene activation from the activation of reactive oxygen species, mitogen-activated protein kinases, and callose deposition, corroborating a close link between the former two outputs. Together, our data imply a model in which MAMP-induced repression of flavonoid accumulation serves a role in removing the inherent inhibitory action of flavonoids on an MTI signaling branch.
Transcriptional Regulation of Arabidopsis LEAFY COTYLEDON2 Involves RLE, a cis-Element That Regulates Trimethylation of Histone H3 at Lysine-27
Authors: Berger Nathalie , Dubreucq Bertrand , Roudier François , Dubos Christian , Lepiniec Loïc
Published: November 2011

LEAFY COTYLEDON2 (LEC2) is a master regulator of seed development in Arabidopsis thaliana. In vegetative organs, LEC2 expression is negatively regulated by Polycomb Repressive Complex2 (PRC2) that catalyzes histone H3 Lys 27 trimethylation (H3K27me3) and plays a crucial role in developmental phase transitions. To characterize the cis-regulatory elements involved in the transcriptional regulation of LEC2, molecular dissections and functional analyses of the promoter region were performed in vitro, both in yeast and in planta. Two cis-activating elements and a cis-repressing element (RLE) that is required for H3K27me3 marking were characterized. Remarkably, insertion of the RLE cis-element into pF3H, an unrelated promoter, is sufficient for repressing its transcriptional activity in different tissues. Besides improving our understanding of LEC2 regulation, this study provides important new insights into the mechanisms underlying H3K27me3 deposition and PRC2 recruitment at a specific locus in plants.
Utilization of some cashew by‐products
Authors: Gyedu‐Akoto Esther
Published: November 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show how to develop useful products from cashew by‐products, to help expand the income base of cashew farmers in the Savanna area.

Design/methodology/approach

Investigations into the utilization of some by‐products from cashew were carried out using the apples and gum from the cashew tree. The apples were processed into clarified and non‐clarified juices and jam. Cashew gum, a by‐product of the cashew tree, was used in the development of baked doughnuts as a fat replacer. The gum was used at five different levels in the preparation of the products – 0, 20, 40, 60 and 80 per cent of fat used.

Findings

The average yield of cashew juice after extraction with a screw press ranged from 53.0 to 54.6 per cent. Results on chemical and sensory analyses of the two juices showed that clarification with Polyvinylpyrrolidone reduced both the chemical and sensory quality of the juices. Protein content, total sugar concentration and K content reduced from 0.548, 58.23 and 4.23 per cent to 0.443, 18.50 and 3.32 per cent, respectively. Fat contents of the baked doughnuts were 16.72, 14.68, 8.10, 8.24 and 5.82 per cent for products with 0, 20, 40, 60 and 80 per cent cashew gum, respectively. Results of sensory analysis showed that decreasing the fat content reduced the flavour, moistness and consumer acceptance of the products. However, there was no significant difference between the products. Therefore, it is suggested that cashew gum can replace fat in baked dough nuts up to 20 per cent.

Originality/value

These findings are important to cashew farmers, processors, nutritionists and consumers as a whole.
Measuring supply chain efficiency from a green perspective
Authors: Kim Ilsuk , Min Hokey
Published: November 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to examine whether some countries achieve logistics efficiency at the cost of undermining environmental quality. In so doing, a hybrid index, the green logistics performance index (GLPI) combining both the LPI and the environmental performance index (EPI), is constructed.

Design/methodology/approach

Being a macro analysis measuring the green supply chain efficiency of a country, this paper utilizes the secondary data compiled by the World Bank and the World Economic Forum. A series of simple regression analyses were conducted in order to find out the varying degrees of association between the LPI, the EPI, the GLPI and the national income level.

Findings

As active logistics activities can have an impact on carbon footprints such as greenhouse gas emissions, it was found that some countries chose to increase their income level at the expense of the environment degradation. Consequently, the GLPI is suggested as a good indicator of a country's green logistics efficiency, showing what impact the country's logistics competitiveness has on its environment.

Originality/value

This paper is the first attempt to measure the efficiency of the supply chain of a country from a green perspective by proposing the GLPI combining the LPI and the EPI. It is also the first literature in the supply chain management academia to utilize both the LPI and the EPI.
Successfully implementing radical management at Salesforce.com
Authors: Denning Stephen
Published: November 2011

Purpose

This case aims to describe the practices of Salesforce.com, one of the most successful examples of a company transitioning from traditional management to radical management.

Design/methodology/approach

The article explores the factors that made the implementation successful and identifies the pitfalls that were avoided. Salesforce.com provides on‐demand services for customer‐relationship management.

Findings

Salesforce.com has had more spectacular results than most other companies that have adopted the radical management principles of Scrum.

Research limitations/implications

Over the past five years Salesforce.com has delivered a 41 percent annual return to shareholders. This extraordinary performance – in fact, an example of an innovation turnaround – occurred after the firm instituted a set of radical practices that make it a model for business seeking to grow though continuous innovation.

Practical implications

The leadership at Salesforce.com saw that if a radically different approach to management were to be introduced in one part of the organization, there would be a tension at the interface between the part of the company still doing traditional management and the part managing work in the new way. So they opted to go all out with change right across the whole organization.

Originality/value

What made Salesforce.com different is that when it innovativeness was threatened it adopted a radically different way of managing work. It implemented a set of agile, customer‐driven, outcome‐oriented, iterative management practices known in software development as Scrum.
An empirical comparative analysis of various issues of foreign trade among firms in South‐East Asian countries
Authors: Sirpal Rajeshwar
Published: November 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to conduct a comparative analysis of the various issues faced by firms involved in foreign trade in Brunei Darussalam and Singapore. It tries to delineate the issues or concerns in export and import trade that are significant, but of either same or different magnitudes in these countries. It also attempts to determine the concerns that are of lesser extent for both importers and exporters, and extent of usage of insurance against non‐payment of export debts, and/or loss of goods in transit.

Design/methodology/approach

Judgment and snowball sampling methods are employed to collect data from various companies in these countries. The results are analyzed from two samples of 42 and 25 responding firms of Brunei Darussalam, and Singapore, respectively. Descriptive statistics is used to present and analyze the data.

Findings

The paper highlights the various important issues related to foreign trade by firms. The issues that are significant, but are of the same magnitudes in these countries along with the issues that are of different magnitudes are mentioned. Furthermore, concerns of lesser extent for both importers and exporters along with a comparative analysis of buying insurance by firms are also mentioned.

Research limitations/implications

The results are basically from the various trading companies involved in foreign trade in Brunei Darussalam and Singapore. The sample size of firms from Singapore may be another limiting factor.

Originality/value

This study fills the gap in the existing literature about current issues prevalent in these countries. Furthermore, some suggestions to reduce the concerns of foreign trade are also mentioned in the paper. The findings may be useful for financial institutions interested in providing better services to the firms.
Modelling investment in the tourism industry using the World Bank's good governance indicators
Authors: Rios‐Morales Ruth , Gamberger Dragan , Jenkins Ian , Smuc Tom
Published: November 2011

Purpose

Foreign direct investment has been extensively recognised as an important resource of economic growth. Governments have been playing an active role in encouraging this type of investment. Despite efforts by governments, only a few countries have been successful in attracting investment for their tourism industry. The purpose of this paper is to detect meaningful relationships between government policies and investment.

Design/methodology/approach

This study utilizes statistical and machine learning techniques. A predictive model has been constructed and evaluated using a set of countries, which differ from those putatively used for model generation. Good governance indicators, together with data about investments in the tourism industry, are the main instruments used in the model.

Findings

The findings suggest that the formulation and implementation of sound policies, together with regulations, promotes the development of a private sector; and the private sector has a significant role in attracting tourism investment.

Practical implications

The study contributes to research in the tourism industry by using intelligent data analysis techniques.

Originality/value

The availability of comprehensive datasets and a very limited set of empirical studies, related to investment in the tourism industry, has stimulated this research to focus on integrating quantitative resources and assessing the significance of government policies.