bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structure, Microwave Dielectric Properties, and Low‐Temperature Sintering of Acceptor/Donor Codoped Li2Ti1−x(Al0.5Nb0.5)xO3 Ceramics
Authors: Zhang Tianwen , Zuo Ruzhong , Zhang Jian
Published: December 2015

The structure, microwave dielectric properties, and low‐temperature sintering behavior of acceptor/donor codoped Li2TiO3 ceramics [Li2Ti1−x(Al0.5Nb0.5)xO3, x = 0–0.3] were investigated systematically. The x‐ray diffraction confirmed that a single‐phase solid solution remained within 0 < x ≤ 0.2 and secondary phases started to appear as x > 0.2, accompanied by an order–disorder phase transition in the whole range. Scanning electron microscopy observation indicated that the complex substitution of Al3+ and Nb5+ produced a significant effect on the microstructural morphology. Both microcrack healing and grain growth contributed to the obviously enhanced Q×f values. By comparison, the decrease of εr and τf values was ascribed to the ionic polarizability and the cell volume, respectively. Excellent microwave dielectric properties of εr ~ 21.2, Q×f ~ 181 800 GHz and τf  ~ 12.8 ppm/°C were achieved in the x = 0.15 sample when sintered at 1150°C. After 1.5 mol% BaCu(B2O5) additive was introduced, it could be well sintered at 950°C and exhibited good microwave dielectric properties of εr ~ 20.4, Q×f ~ 53 290 GHz and τf ~ 3.6 ppm/°C as well. The cofiring test of the low‐sintering sample with Ag powder proved its good chemical stability during high temperature, which enables it to be a promising middle‐permittivity candidate material for the applications of low‐temperature cofired ceramics.
Illness perception, coping and adherence to treatment among patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Vélez‐Vélez Esperanza , Bosch Ricardo J.
Published: December 2015

Aim

To analyse the predictive value of illness representations on treatment adherence and coping strategies in a group of patients on haemodialysis.

Background

Understanding the cognitive and emotional factors that influence adherence behaviour and coping strategies and determining their relationship to sociodemographic factors remain a challenge; meeting this challenge would encourage comprehensive patient care, thereby improving their quality of life

Design

Cross‐sectional study with predictive means in a sample of 135 patients on haemodialysis.

Methods

Data collection occurred from September 2010–January 2012 and tools included the following: sociodemographic data, Illness Perception Questionnaire‐Revised, the Cuestionario de Afrontamiento del Estrés and the Morisky–Green test to study adherence to treatment.

Results

Being a woman, having a greater knowledge of the disease and having a poorer sense of personal control affected adherence to treatment on controlling for each factor. ‘Identity’, ‘personal control’ and ‘adherence’ were associated with a proactive coping strategy, whereas ‘evolution’ and ‘gender’ were related independently to avoidance coping strategies; those who believed that their illness had a chronic course were more likely to cope by avoiding the problem and this tendency was stronger among women.

Conclusions

This study provides evidence supporting the role of gender, knowledge about the disease and sense of personal control in adherence to therapeutic regimens of patients in chronic haemodialysis. The identification and characterization of patients’ perception of chronic illness may represent a useful framework to influence disease outcomes such as adherence.
Pattern, prediction and parsimony in continental‐scale synthesis of pyromes: a reply to Gosper et al.
Authors: Murphy Brett P. , Lawes Michael J. , Bowman David M.J.S.
Published: December 2015

We (Murphy et al., 2013; Clarke et al., 2015) have recently developed a framework to understand the spatial distribution of fire regimes and plant fire‐response traits at large spatial scales. We integrated a range of data sources to create a continental‐scale overview of Australian pyromes from which to infer pyrogeographic drivers. Gosper et al. (in press) have criticized our approach, based on our misclassification of a vegetation type (eucalypt woodland), with distinct fire regime, in the Coolgardie bioregion of Western Australia. We argue that the intention of our integrative approach was to develop and refine conceptual models of Australian pyrogeography, not to produce a predictive map of fire regimes, and certainly not to guide local‐scale fire management. Like all models, continental‐scale syntheses of pyromes are imperfect, yet they still represent powerful tools for understanding the drivers of the spatial distribution of fire regimes.
Nebivolol Effects on Nitric Oxide Levels, Blood Pressure, and Renal Function in Kidney Transplant Patients
Authors: Santos Alfonso H , Casey Michael J. , Bucci Charles M. , Rehman Shehzad , Segal Mark S.
Published: December 2015

In hypertensive kidney transplant recipients, the effects of nebivolol vs metoprolol on nitric oxide (NO) blood level, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and blood pressure (BP) have not been previously reported. In a 12‐month prospective, randomized, open‐label, active‐comparator trial, hypertensive kidney transplant recipients were treated with nebivolol (n=15) or metoprolol (n=15). Twenty‐nine patients (nebivolol [n=14], metoprolol [n=15]) completed the trial. The primary endpoint was change in blood NO level after 12 months of treatment. Secondary endpoints were changes in eGFR, BP, and number of antihypertensive drug classes used. After 12 months of treatment, least squares mean change in plasma NO level in the nebivolol kidney transplant recipient group younger than 50 years was higher by 68.19% (99.17% confidence interval [CI], 13.02–123.36), 69.54% (99.17% CI, 12.71–126.37), and 66.80% (99.17% CI, 12.95–120.64) compared with the metoprolol group younger than 50 years, the metoprolol group 50 years and older, and the nebivolol group 50 years and older, respectively. The baseline to month 12 change in mean arterial BP, eGFR, and number of antihypertensive drug classes used was not significantly different between the treatment groups. In hypertensive kidney transplant recipients, nebivolol use in patients younger than 50 years increased blood NO.
Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring and Echocardiographic Findings in Renal Transplant Recipients
Authors: Kendirlinan Demirkol Ozlem , Oruc Meric , Ikitimur Baris , Ozcan Sevgi , Gulcicek Sibel , Soylu Hikmet , Trabulus Sinan , Altiparmak Mehmet Riza , Seyahi Nurhan
Published: December 2015

Hypertension is common in renal transplant recipients (RTRs). Ambulatory blood pressure (BP) monitoring (ABPM) is important in diagnosing hypertension and diurnal BP variation. The authors set out to compare office BP and ABPM measurements to determine diurnal pattern and to evaluate echocardiographic findings in RTRs. ABPM and office BP measurements were compared in 87 RTRs. Echocardiographic evaluation was performed for each patient. The correlations between office and 24‐hour ABPM were 0.275 for mean systolic BP (P=.011) and 0.260 for mean diastolic BP (P=.017). Only 36.8% had concordant hypertension between office BP and ABPM, with a masked hypertension rate of 16.1% and white‐coat effect rate of 24.1%. Circadian BP patterns showed a higher proportion of nondippers (67.8%). Left ventricular mass index was increased in 21.8% of all recipients. There was a significant but weak correlation between office BP and ABPM.
Childhood peer network characteristics: genetic influences and links with early mental health trajectories
Authors: Szekely Eszter , Pappa Irene , Wilson James D. , Bhamidi Shankar , Jaddoe Vincent W. , Verhulst Frank C. , Tiemeier Henning , Shaw Philip
Published: December 2015

Background

Peer relationships are important for children's mental health, yet little is known of their etiological underpinnings. Here, we explore the genetic influences on childhood peer network characteristics in three different networks defined by rejection, acceptance, and prosocial behavior. We further examine the impact of early externalizing and internalizing trajectories on these same peer network characteristics.

Methods

Participants were 1,288 children from the Dutch ‘Generation R’ birth cohort. At age 7, we mapped out children's classroom peer networks for peer rejection, acceptance, and prosocial behavior using mutual peer nominations. In each network, genetic influences were estimated for children's degree centrality, closeness centrality and link reciprocity from DNA using Genome‐wide Complex Trait Analysis. Preschool externalizing and internalizing trajectories were computed using parental ratings at ages 1.5, 3, and 5 years.

Results

Of the three network properties examined, closeness centrality emerged as significantly heritable across all networks. Preschool externalizing problems predicted unfavorable positions within peer rejection networks and having fewer mutual friendships. In contrast, children with preschool‐internalizing problems were not actively rejected by their peers, but were less well‐connected within their social support network.

Conclusions

Our finding of significant heritability for closeness centrality should be taken as preliminary evidence that requires replication. Nevertheless, it can orient us to the role of genes in shaping a child's position within peer networks. Additionally, social network perspectives offer rich insights into how early life mental health trajectories impact a child's later functioning within peer networks.
Comparison of Safe Alternative Dipping Treatments to Maintain Quality of Zucchini
Authors: De Bruin Willeke , Rossouw Werner , Korsten Lise
Published: December 2015

Decay and quality loss severely affect the marketability of fresh zucchini. Zucchinis are easily damaged during harvesting, handling and storage, and no commercial treatment is currently available that can protect the fruit from desiccation, quality loss and decay. The aim of this study was to compare different environmentally friendly dipping treatments (CaCl2, Aloe vera, warm water, chitosan, ascorbic and citric acid) to retain the quality of fresh zucchini. Treated fruit were evaluated for physiological, sensory and microbiological parameters after storage for 7 and 14 days at 5.8C and 85% relative humidity. The CaCl2, Aloe vera and warm water treatments were the most effective in maintaining firmness and preventing an increase in the total microflora of the fruit. The outcome of this study shows that alternative control methods have potential for effective quality maintenance of fresh zucchini. Future studies should focus on alternative packaging materials in combination with these treatments.

Practical Applications

Zucchinis are rich in carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins and are good nutritional additives to a balanced and healthy diet. Recent observations at retail level showed preventable quality losses, indicating the need to improve postharvest technologies for retaining the overall standard of the product after harvest and during the supply chain. Quality parameters include firm texture, shiny, dark‐green skin color and freedom from shrivel and mechanical injuries. The assessment of different environmentally friendly dipping treatments indicated that CaCl2, Aloe vera and warm water treatments could lead to improved quality maintenance of zucchinis. Practical applications stemming from these results include the ability to extend shelf life and preserve the microbiological profile of this fruit after harvest. These treatments may serve as alternatives to chemical or synthetic treatments and may be considered as an inclusion to current postharvest management practices.
Added Values of Time Series in Material Flow Analysis: The Austrian Phosphorus Budget from 1990 to 2011
Authors: Zoboli Ottavia , Laner David , Zessner Matthias , Rechberger Helmut
Published: December 2015

Material flow analysis is a tool that is increasingly used as a foundation for resource management and environmental protection. This tool is primarily applied in a static manner to individual years, ignoring the impact of time on the material budgets. In this study, a detailed multiyear model of the Austrian phosphorus budget covering the period 1990–2011 was built to investigate its behavior over time and test the hypothesis that a multiyear approach can also contribute to the improvement of static budgets. Further, a novel method was applied to investigate the quality and characteristics of the data and quantify the uncertainty. The degree of change between the budgets was assessed and showed that approximately half of the flows have changed significantly and, at times, abruptly since 1990, but it is not possible to distinguish unequivocally between constant and moderately changing flows given their uncertainty. The study reveals that the phosphorus transported in waste flows has increased more rapidly than its recovery, which accounted for 55% to 60% of the total waste phosphorus in 1990 and only 40% in 2011. The loss ratio in landfills and cement kilns has oscillated in the range of 40% to 50%. From a methodological point of view, the multiyear approach has broadened the conceptual model of the budget, making it more suitable as a basis for material accounting and monitoring. Moreover, the analysis of the data reconciliation process over a long period of time proved to be a useful tool for identifying systematic errors in the model.
Wavelet transform analysis of chromatin texture changes during heat shock
Authors: HERBOMEL G. , GRICHINE A. , FERTIN A , DELON A. , VOURC'H C. , SOUCHIER C. , USSON Y.
Published: December 2015

Texture analysis can be a useful tool to investigate the organization of chromatin. Approaches based on multiscale analysis and in particular the ‘à trou’ wavelet analysis has already been used for microscopy (Olivo Marin). In order to analyse texture changes, the statistical properties of the wavelet coefficient images were summarized by the first four statistical orders: mean, standard deviation, skewness and kurtosis of the coefficient image histogram. The ‘à trou’ transform provided a representation of the wavelet coefficients and texture parameters with the same statistical robustness throughout the scale spaces. It was applied for quantifying chromatin texture and heat‐induced chromatin changes in living cells. We investigated the changes by both laser scanning and spinning disk confocal microscopies and compared the texture parameters before and after increasing duration of heat shock exposure (15 min, 30 min and 1 h). Furthermore, as activation of the heat shock response also correlates with a rapid localization of HSF1 within a few nuclear structures termed nuclear stress bodies (nSBs), we compared the dynamics of nSBs formation with that of textural changes during 1 h of continuous heat shock. Next, we studied the recovery phase following a 1‐h heat shock. Significant differences were observed, particularly affecting the perinucleolar region, even for the shortest heat shock time affecting mostly the skewness and standard deviation. Furthermore, progressive changes could be observed according to the duration of heat shock, mostly affecting fine details (pixel‐wise changes) as revealed by the parameters, obtained from the first‐ and second‐order wavelet coefficients. ‘A trou’ wavelet texture analysis provided a sensitive and efficient tool to investigate minute changes of chromatin.
Two cases of polydactyly in wild brown howler monkeys (Alouatta guariba clamitans)
Authors: da Silva Moira Ansolch , Steinberg Eliana R. , Paskulin Giorgio A. , Teixeira Fábio dos Santos , Jesus Anamélia de Souza , Mudry Marta D. , Bicca‐Marques Júlio César
Published: December 2015

We report the first two cases of polydactyly in an atelid species: (i) a wild ca. 16‐week‐old infant female presenting seven digits in both feet and other bone malformations and (ii) a wild newborn male presenting six digits in both feet with the extra digit fused to the hallux.
Does It Pay to Bet Against Beta? On the Conditional Performance of the Beta Anomaly
Authors: CEDERBURG SCOTT , O'DOHERTY MICHAEL S.
Published: December 2015

Prior studies find that a strategy that buys high‐beta stocks and sells low‐beta stocks has a significantly negative unconditional capital asset pricing model (CAPM) alpha, such that it appears to pay to “bet against beta.” We show, however, that the conditional beta for the high‐minus‐low beta portfolio covaries negatively with the equity premium and positively with market volatility. As a result, the unconditional alpha is a downward‐biased estimate of the true alpha. We model the conditional market risk for beta‐sorted portfolios using instrumental variables methods and find that the conditional CAPM resolves the beta anomaly.
Access to Sweden's Legal System of Crime Victims With Intellectual Disability Involved in Prostitution Activities
Authors: Kuosmanen Jari , Starke Mikaela
Published: December 2015

Articles 12 and 13 of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities encourage modifications to member‐country justice systems to ensure equal access to justice for people with disabilities. The article explores Swedish professionals’ perceptions and experiences of the accessibility of the country's justice system to individuals with intellectual disability (ID) who are involved in prostitution and prostitution‐like activities and have become victims of crime. Barriers to this accessibility, as well as the use of advocacy by, and cooperation between, professionals as ways to overcome them, are investigated. Thirteen open‐themed, face‐to‐face interviews were conducted with 21 participants working for the police, public prosecutor's office, social services, and habilitation services. Participants described shortcomings in the implementation, and even lack, of access to the justice system for these individuals, including lack of clear policies and legislation that would take ID into account. Crime victims with ID, according to them, were frequently not considered as credible witnesses by the justice system and there was a need for alternative communication tools in court. Also, lack of knowledge about people with ID among other professionals was identified as a problem. The use of advocacy function and successful collaboration among relevant professionals were suggested as ways to improve accessibility. The findings indicate that the laws and directives to promote the access of people with ID to the Swedish justice system are poorly implemented in practice. To improve this access, better collaboration among professionals and more systematic use of them in an advocacy role to help and support persons with ID throughout the entire justice process are likely to be helpful.
Home Sharing and People With Intellectual Disabilities: A Qualitative Exploration
Authors: Hole Rachelle , Robinson Carole A. , Stainton Tim , Lige Sara , Crawford Cameron
Published: December 2015

Home sharing is a fast‐growing residential option in British Columbia (BC), Canada; yet little empirical research exists specific to home sharing. In BC, home sharing is defined as a living situation when one or more adults with an intellectual disability share a home with another person or unrelated family who is paid to provide residential and, at times, additional support as needed. The authors report the findings of a qualitative study exploring home sharing and the factors that contribute to quality home sharing. Guided by interpretive description, a qualitative method, individual interviews exploring participants’ experiences of home sharing were conducted with 68 individuals (22 individuals with ID, 33 home share providers, and 13 family members). Constant comparison was used to analyze the data. Key factors to perceived instances of successful home sharing included (1) finding a good match between the individual with ID and the provider, (2) engaging in proactive planning, (3) ensuring effective supports to maintain the sustainability of the home share that promotes balancing the independence of and support for the individual, and (4) being attuned to the relational dynamics among all stakeholders. The findings have implications for implementing policies and practices pertaining home sharing. The authors conclude that emphasis should be put on flexible and appropriate residential supports that address the person's changing needs where the home share relationship facilitates the individual's healthy lifestyle, well‐being, independence, valued social roles, and social inclusion. Additionally, a clearly articulated system of monitoring to ensure safety should be part of all home share arrangements subject to the wishes of the individual with ID.
Context‐Dependency of Mobility in Children and Adolescents With Cerebral Palsy: Optimal and Natural Environments
Authors: Kleiner Ana F. R. , Galli Manuela , Albertini Giorgio , Batistela Rosangela A. , Sánchez‐Arias Mónica R. , Mancini Marisa C. , Gobbi Lilian T. B.
Published: December 2015

According to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF), the mobility of individuals with spastic cerebral palsy (SCP) is influenced by the interaction between their health and the personal and environmental contexts in which they conduct their lives. In accord with the ICF, this observational study aimed to analyze and compare the functional mobility of children and adolescents with SCP in both natural environments (places typically encountered in their daily routine) and optimized environments (flat surfaces). The observed effects of the environment suggest that the functional mobility of individuals with cerebral palsy depends on the environmental context. The characteristics of the natural and optimized environments may act as barriers and/or facilitators to covering short and long distances among individuals of different ages with cerebral palsy.
Use of Liposomal Gentamicin for Treatment of 5 Foals with Experimentally Induced Rhodococcus equi Pneumonia
Authors: Cohen N.D. , Giguère S. , Burton A.J. , Rocha J.N. , Berghaus L.J. , Brake C.N. , Bordin A.I. , Coleman M.C.
Published: December 2015

Background

Adverse effects of, and bacterial resistance to, macrolides used to treat Rhodococcus equi infections have prompted search for clinically effective alternative antimicrobials. Liposomal gentamicin (LG) is effective against R. equi in vitro and decreases tissue concentrations of R. equi in experimentally infected mice. Effectiveness of LG treatment of foals with R. equi pneumonia, however, has not been described.

Hypothesis

Liposomal gentamicin is safe and effective for treating foals with R. equi pneumonia.

Animals

Ten foals with experimentally induced R. equi pneumonia.

Methods

Pilot treatment trial. Foals with pneumonia induced by intrabronchial instillation of R. equi were randomly allocated to receive either clarithromycin combined with rifampin (CLR + RIF) PO or LG IV, and followed by daily physical examinations and weekly thoracic ultrasonography and serum creatinine concentration determinations until the resolution of clinical signs. Treatment success was defined as the resolution of clinical signs and ultrasonographically identified pulmonary abscesses.

Results

All 10 foals were successfully treated. Two of 5 foals treated with LG developed azotemia within 1 week; LG was discontinued and treatment switched to CLR + RIF for these foals. None of the CLR + RIF treated foals developed azotemia.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Liposomal gentamicin IV can be effective for treatment of R. equi pneumonia, but nephrotoxicity indicates that an alternative dosing interval or route (such as nebulization) will be needed before LG is adequately safe for clinical use. Larger comparative trials will be needed to evaluate the relative efficacy of a safer LG dosage regimen.
Hierarchical analysis of the population genetic structure in Concholepas concholepas, a marine mollusk with a long‐lived dispersive larva
Authors: Cárdenas Leyla , Castilla Juan Carlos , Viard Frédérique
Published: December 2015

For most marine invertebrate species, dispersal is achieved mainly or exclusively by pelagic larvae. When the duration of the pelagic larval stage is long, genetic homogeneity over large geographic scales is expected. However, genetic structure has often been reported over small spatial scales, suggesting that more complex processes occur than a simple positive relationship between pelagic larval duration and gene flow. Concholepas concholepas has a larval stage that can last up to 3 months in the water column with a wide distributional range covering from 6°S to 56°S. We used a hierarchical sampling technique to test if the genetic homogeneity of this highly dispersive species is maintained throughout its total geographic range in spite of environmental heterogeneity. In the three studied regions (Antofagasta Bay, Valdivia and Patagonia), a spatial pattern of isolation by distance in conjunction with a spatial genetic structure was observed. Within each region, different spatial genetic patterns were detected. In Antofagasta Bay and Valdivia there was evidence of substantial gene flow among populations, whereas in Patagonia, populations showed genetic structure and a unique, genetically isolated location was identified. These results revealed the existence of spatial differences in the genetic patterns among regions with different coastal topographies in C. concholepas, and give us new insights into the inter‐relationships of larval dispersal potential, actual larval dispersal and physical processes. Regarding the sustainable management of C. concholepas, two important issues are derived from this study: (i) to highlight the need for a regional context in the management of C. concholepas, (ii) to determine the distinctiveness of the most austral population and to focus on the conservation efforts due to the relevance of this area.
Model misspecification confounds the estimation of rates and exaggerates their time dependency
Authors: Emerson Brent C. , Alvarado‐Serrano Diego F. , Hickerson Michael J.
Published: December 2015

While welcoming the comment of Ho et al. (), we find little that undermines the strength of our criticism, and it would appear they have misunderstood our central argument. Here we respond with the purpose of reiterating that we are (i) generally critical of much of the evidence presented in support of the time‐dependent molecular rate (TDMR) hypothesis and (ii) specifically critical of estimates of μ derived from tip‐dated sequences that exaggerate the importance of purifying selection as an explanation for TDMR over extended timescales. In response to assertions put forward by Ho et al. (), we use panmictic coalescent simulations of temporal data to explore a fundamental assumption for tip‐dated tree shape and associated mutation rate estimates, and the appropriateness and utility of the date randomization test. The results reveal problems for the joint estimation of tree topology, effective population size and μ with tip‐dated sequences using beast. Given the simulations, beast consistently obtains incorrect topological tree structures that are consistent with the substantial overestimation of μ and underestimation of effective population size. Data generated from lower effective population sizes were less likely to fail the date randomization test yet still resulted in substantially upwardly biased estimates of rates, bringing previous estimates of μ from temporally sampled DNA sequences into question. We find that our general criticisms of both the hypothesis of time‐dependent molecular evolution and Bayesian methods to estimate μ from temporally sampled DNA sequences are further reinforced.
Military Expenditures and Profit Rates: Evidence from OECD Countries
Authors: Elveren Adem Y. , Hsu* Sara
Published: December 2015

This article provides evidence of the effect of military expenditures on the rate of profits for 24 OECD countries for the period of 1963–2008 by employing a panel autoregressive distributed lag model within a Marxist framework for the first time. Findings show that while for the whole period there is positive linkage between military expenditures and profit rates, in the post‐1980 era the impact of military expenditures is negative. Findings suggest weak evidence that there is positive linkage between military expenditures and profit rates for arms‐exporting countries and negative linkage for non‐arms‐exporting countries.
Opportunities and Outcomes: The Role of Peers in Developing the Oral Academic English Proficiency of Adolescent English Learners
Authors: CARHILL–POZA AVARY
Published: December 2015

Although researchers often acknowledge the importance of linguistically rich interactions in the academic language development of emergent bilingual students, few studies have explicitly examined the role of linguistic peer support and the underlying structure of social relationships in the second language learning experiences and outcomes of immigrant adolescents in schooling contexts. This mixed methods study investigates the role of peers—including bilingual peers—in the development of oral academic English during adolescence. Using social network analysis, this study describes the unique contribution of peer linguistic resources to the oral Academic English Proficiency of 102 adolescent Spanish‐speaking immigrant students. Findings show that having bilingual peers who collaborated on academic tasks with participants, in English or Spanish, contributed to academic English proficiency beyond individual predictors of second language acquisition (age, time in the United States, gender, and maternal education). Peer social network composition indexed the opportunities adolescent English learners encountered at school to learn and use academic English.
The burden of serious human fungal infections in Brazil
Authors: Giacomazzi Juliana , Baethgen Ludmila , Carneiro Lilian C. , Millington Maria Adelaide , Denning David W. , Colombo Arnaldo L. , Pasqualotto Alessandro C. ,   in association with the LIFE program
Published: December 2015

In Brazil, human fungal infections are prevalent, however, these conditions are not officially reportable diseases. To estimate the burden of serious fungal diseases in 1 year in Brazil, based on available data and published literature. Historical official data from fungal diseases were collected from Brazilian Unified Health System Informatics Department (DATASUS). For fungal diseases for which no official data were available, assumptions of frequencies were made by estimating based on published literature. The incidence (/1000) of hospital admissions for coccidioidomycosis was 7.12; for histoplasmosis, 2.19; and for paracoccidioidomycosis, 7.99. The estimated number of cryptococcal meningoencephalitis cases was 6832. Also, there were 4115 cases of Pneumocystis pneumonia in AIDS patients per year, 1 010 465 aspergillosis and 2 981 416 cases of serious Candida infections, including invasive and non‐invasive diseases. In this study, we demonstrate that more than 3.8 million individuals in Brazil may be suffering from serious fungal infections, mostly patients with malignant cancers, transplant recipients, asthma, previous tuberculosis, HIV infection and those living in endemic areas for truly pathogenic fungi. The scientific community and the governmental agencies should work in close collaboration in order to reduce the burden of such complex, difficult‐to‐diagnose and hard to treat diseases.
Thiamine antivitamins – an opportunity of therapy of fungal infections caused by Malassezia pachydermatis and Candida albicans
Authors: Siemieniuk Magdalena , Czyzewska Urszula , Strumilo Slawomir , Tylicki Adam
Published: December 2015

Severe skin diseases and systemic fungaemia are caused by Malassezia pachydermatis and Candida albicans respectively. Antifungal therapies are less effective because of chronic character of infections and high percentage of relapses. Therefore, there is a great need to develop new strategies of antifungal therapies. We previously found that oxythiamine decreases proliferation of yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae), therefore we suggest that thiamine antivitamins can be considered as antifungal agents. The aim of this study was the comparison of thiamine antivitamins (oxythiamine, amprolium, thiochrome, tetrahydrothiamine and tetrahydrooxythiamine) inhibitory effect on the growth rate and energetic metabolism efficiency in non‐pathogenic S. cerevisiae and two potentially pathogenic species M. pachydermatis and C. albicans. Investigated species were cultured on a Sabouraud medium supplemented with trace elements in the presence (40 mg l−1) or absence of each tested antivitamins to estimate their influence on growth rate, enzyme activity and kinetic parameters of pyruvate decarboxylase and malate dehydrogenase of each tested species. Oxythiamine was the only antivitamin with antifungal potential. M. pachydermatis and S. cerevisiae were the most sensitive, whereas C. albicans was the least sensitive to oxythiamine action. Oxythiamine can be considered as supportive agent in superficial mycoses treatment, especially those caused by species from the genus Malassezia.
Invasive pulmonary mycosis due to Chaetomium globosum with false‐positive galactomannan test: a case report and literature review
Authors: Capoor Malini R. , Agarwal Poojan , Goel Manoj , Jain Sarika , Shivaprakash Mandya Rudramurthy , Honnavar Prasanna , Gupta Sunita , Chakrabarti Arunaloke
Published: December 2015

In this case, the authors report Chaetomium globosum as a cause of invasive pulmonary infection in a patient with Wegener's granulomatosis. Fungal hyphae (KOH and Calcofluor) were seen on direct microscopy of lung biopsy sample and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) sample. C. globosum isolated on culture clinched the diagnosis of invasive pulmonary infection by Chaetomium spp. A positive galactomannan of serum and BAL was repeatedly seen and was utilised for follow‐up and as prognostic marker in patient management. The patient was successfully treated with liposomal amphotericin B followed by voriconazole. All the Chaetomium infections reported till date since 1980 are reviewed. Chaetomium spp. with its unique ecology has a hidden clinical potential to cause invasive mould infections.
Dermatophytosis in northern Africa
Authors: Nweze E. I. , Eke I.
Published: December 2015

Infections caused by dermatophytes are a global problem and a major public health burden in the world today. In Africa, especially in the northern geographical zone, dermatophytic infections are being reported at an alarming rate. This is mostly because of some local but unique cultural practices, socioeconomic and environmental conditions, lack of reliable diagnostic personnel and facilities and ineffective treatment. Interestingly, the pathogen spectrum and the clinical manifestation are most times different from what is seen in other continents. Several epidemiological studies have been performed on the incidence and aetiology of dermatophytoses in northern Africa. However, there is currently no review article with up‐to‐date information on the relevant findings reported so far in this region. This information is necessary for clinicians who treat dermatophytic infections all over the world since agents of dermatophytes are no longer restricted because of the rapid mobility of humans from one part of the world to another. Moreover, the epidemiology of dermatophytoses is known to change over time, thus requiring the update of information from time to time. A review of relevant studies published on dermatophytoses in northern Africa is presented. This covers all of old Sudan, Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Tunisia and Morocco.
Carbon dynamics in aboveground biomass of co‐dominant plant species in a temperate grassland ecosystem: same or different?
Authors: Ostler Ulrike , Schleip Inga , Lattanzi Fernando A. , Schnyder Hans
Published: December 2015

Understanding the role of individual organisms in whole‐ecosystem carbon (C) fluxes is probably the biggest current challenge in C cycle research. Thus, it is unknown whether different plant community members share the same or different residence times in metabolic (τmetab) and nonmetabolic (i.e. structural) (τnonmetab) C pools of aboveground biomass and the fraction of fixed C allocated to aboveground nonmetabolic biomass (Anonmetab).

We assessed τmetab, τnonmetab and Anonmetab of co‐dominant species from different functional groups (two bunchgrasses, a stoloniferous legume and a rosette dicot) in a temperate grassland community. Continuous, 14–16‐d‐long 13C‐labeling experiments were performed in September 2006, May 2007 and September 2007.

A two‐pool compartmental system, with a well‐mixed metabolic and a nonmixed nonmetabolic pool, was the simplest biologically meaningful model that fitted the 13C tracer kinetics in the whole‐shoot biomass of all species. In all experimental periods, the species had similar τmetab (5–8 d), whereas τnonmetab ranged from 20 to 58 d (except for one outlier) and Anonmetab from 7 to 45%.

Variations in τnonmetab and Anonmetab were not systematically associated with species or experimental periods, but exhibited relationships with leaf life span, particularly in the grasses. Similar pool kinetics of species suggested similar kinetics at the community level.
Strategies for the prevention of contact lens‐related Acanthamoeba keratitis: a review
Authors: Carnt Nicole , Stapleton Fiona
Published: December 2015

Purpose

Acanthamoeba keratitis is a severe, often sight threatening, corneal infection which in Western countries is predominantly seen in daily wear of contact lenses. This review aims to summarise the pathobiology and epidemiology of contact lens‐related Acanthamoeba keratitis, and to present strategies for prevention, particularly with respect to modifiable risk factors in contact lens wear.

Recent Findings

The virulence of Acanthamoeba and resistance to treatment in keratitis appears to be linked with the production of a low molecular weight protease MIP133 by the organism, in response to binding to corneal epithelial cells through a mannose binding protein, and to the ability of the organism to convert from the trophozoite to the resistant cyst form. Recent epidemiological studies in contact lens relate disease have confirmed the link between solution topping up and Acanthamoeba keratitis and have reinforced the importance of avoidance of tap water, either as part of the care for the contact lens or storage case, handling lenses with wet hands or showering while wearing lenses. In the most recent analysis from the USA, there were no strong effects for solution type, water source or water disinfection process. Wearer age, lens wear time and history to appear to be linked with Acanthamoeba keratitis. Daily disposable contact lens use would be expected to reduce the prevalence of Acanthamoeba disease although this is unproven.

While Acanthamoeba keratitis remains challenging to diagnose and manage, strategies to limit the disease severity in contact lens wearers should include attention to recently identified risk factors, particularly those related to water contact. Public health awareness measures, the use of daily disposable contact lenses, a better understanding of the contribution of the host immunity and the development of standardised methods for culture of amoeba and testing of contact lens care systems against Acanthamoeba in the licensing process may be of value. Alternative treatments for the future may include those which target the mannose binding protein or the genes which control conversion to the cyst form.
Early‐stage screening for heat tolerance in cotton
Authors: Demİrel Ufuk , Çopur Osman , Gür Atİlla
Published: December 2015

The study aimed to identify early‐stage traits of cotton for heat tolerance using multitrait approach reflecting field yield performance. Seedling growth and physiological response of 16 cultivars to high temperature were investigated at three different developmental stages and four heat stress conditions in a climate chamber. Some traits such as hypocotyl dry weight, leaf pigment contents and cellular respiration were significantly correlated with previously known yield of ten cultivars grown in the hot field conditions. Sixteen cotton cultivars were classified for their heat tolerance by principle component analysis (PCA) using yield‐correlated physiological traits. As a result, we showed that heat tolerance classification of cultivars based on PCA significantly coincided with the yield results of cultivars grown in hot field. As a conclusion, yield‐correlated physiological traits determined in the study may facilitate selection of heat‐tolerant cotton genotypes at early stage. In addition, yield‐correlated early‐stage traits can be used in phenotyping for QTL and association mapping studies to develop selection markers for heat tolerance.
Impact of donor–recipient sex match on long‐term survival after heart transplantation in children: An analysis of 5797 pediatric heart transplants
Authors: Kemna Mariska , Albers Erin , Bradford Miranda C. , Law Sabrina , Permut Lester , McMullan D. Mike , Law Yuk
Published: December 2015

The effect of donor–recipient sex matching on long‐term survival in pediatric heart transplantation is not well known. Adult data have shown worse survival when male recipients receive a sex‐mismatched heart, with conflicting results in female recipients. We analyzed 5795 heart transplant recipients ≤18 yr in the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients (1990–2012). Recipients were stratified based on donor and recipient sex, creating four groups: MM (N = 1888), FM (N = 1384), FF (N = 1082), and MF (N = 1441). Males receiving sex‐matched donor hearts had increased unadjusted allograft survival at five yr (73.2 vs. 71%, p = 0.01). However, this survival advantage disappeared with longer follow‐up and when adjusted for additional risk factors by multivariable Cox regression analysis. In contrast, for females, receiving a sex‐mismatched heart was associated with an 18% higher risk of allograft loss over time compared to receiving a sex‐matched heart (HR 1.18, 95% CI: 1.00–1.38) and a 26% higher risk compared to sex‐matched male recipients (HR 1.26, 95% CI: 1.10–1.45). Females who receive a heart from a male donor appear to have a distinct long‐term survival disadvantage compared to all other groups.
Massive pulmonary hemorrhage before living donor liver transplantation in infants
Authors: Matsuura Toshiharu , Yoshimaru Koichiro , Yanagi Yusuke , Esumi Genshiro , Hayashida Makoto , Taguchi Tomoaki
Published: December 2015

A massive pulmonary hemorrhage in patients with liver cirrhosis is a life‐threatening complication that may result in a contraindication of a liver transplantation because of its high mortality rate. Herein, we present two infant biliary atresia cases that successfully underwent an LDLT that was followed by intensive respiratory care for the pretransplant massive pulmonary hemorrhage. Both cases exhibited severe respiratory failure (minimum PaO2/FiO2; 46 mmHg and 39 mmHg, respectively). To arrest the bleeding, we applied a very high positive pressure ventilation treatment (maximum PIP/PEEP; 38/14 cmH2O and 55/15 cmH2O, respectively), plasma exchange, several FFP transfusions, and recombinant factor VIIa via intrapulmonary administration. In addition, we used CHDF treatment, applied HFOV transiently, and treated the patient with inhalation of nitric oxide. Although we prepared ECMO for intra‐operative use, both cases were successfully managed with conventional mechanical ventilation without using ECMO, which may have worsened the pulmonary hemorrhage due to the use of an anticoagulant. Use of an excessive positive pressure management, although it poses a risk for barotrauma, could be acceptable to arrest the pulmonary bleeding in selected cases of liver failure patients who have no time remaining before LDLT.
Interaction between sexes and between different circadian phenotypes affects lifespan in the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Kawaguchi Tomoaki , Umezaki Yujiro , Ito Chihiro , Tomioka Kenji
Published: December 2015

Circadian clocks regulate the daily temporal structure of physiological and behavioural functions. In the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster Meigen, disruption of daily rhythms is suggested to reduce the fly's lifespan. In the present study, because pairs of mixed‐sex flies are known to show an activity pattern different from that of individual flies, this hypothesis is tested by measuring the lifespan of flies housed same‐sexually or mixed‐sexually under an LD 12 : 12 h photocycle at a constant temperature of 25 °C. The effect of housing wild‐type (Canton‐S) flies with period (per) circadian clock mutant flies is also examined because the mutant flies have different daily activity patterns. When males and females of wild‐type flies are housed together, their lifespan is substantially lengthened (males) or shortened (females) compared with same‐sex housed flies. The shortening of the lifespan in females is significantly enhanced when mated with per mutant males. The shortening effects are significantly reduced when the mixed‐sex interaction is limited for the first 5 days after emergence. A slight elongation in lifespan, rather than a reduction, occurs when wild‐type females are housed same‐sexually with per0 or perL mutant flies. In male flies, the elongation of lifespan occurs not only when wild‐type males are housed with wild‐type, per0 or perL females, but also when housed with per0 or perS mutant males. Mixed‐sex couples always show altered daily locomotor rhythms with an enhanced night‐time activity, whereas same‐sex couples show daily behavioural profiles slightly altered but essentially similar to a sum of the respective two flies. No significant correlation is found between the lifespan and reproductive capacity. These results suggest that the alteration of daily activity rhythms and sexual interaction may have significant impact on the fly's lifespan.
Implementing Operations Strategy: How Vertical and Horizontal Coordination Interact
Authors: Sting Fabian J. , Loch Christoph H.
Published: December 2015

We study the implementation of operations strategy at six German manufacturers in mature businesses. Search theory argues that vertical coordination (i.e., unilateral top‐down adjustment of lower‐level search actions) balances stability against the improvement potential enabled by frontline search and also that horizontal coordination (i.e., bilateral adjustment among lower‐level search actions) is required to ensure compatibility among the initiatives generated in various organizational subunits. Much less is known about how vertical and horizontal coordination interact in operations strategy implementation—that is the focus of this study. We first study how horizontal and vertical coordination affect the compatibility and creativity of distributed search, triangulating our cross‐level interviews with data on the manufacturers' productivity gains and their strategic projects. We then examine whether and how vertical and horizontal coordination interact. Our case comparisons suggest that leaving either one of them “loose” and keeping the other one “tight” results in a useful balance between compatibility and creativity; in contrast, tightening both types of coordination suppresses creativity and loosening both types risks incompatibility of initiatives across units. These results lead to a theoretical framework that identifies vertical and horizontal coordination as partial substitutes for operations strategy implementation.