bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Broadly Conserved Fungal Effector BEC1019 Suppresses Host Cell Death and Enhances Pathogen Virulence in Powdery Mildew of Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) (Retracted)
Authors: Whigham Ehren , Qi Shan , Mistry Divya , Surana Priyanka , Xu Ruo , Fuerst Gregory , Pliego Clara , Bindschedler Laurence V. , Spanu Pietro D. , Dickerson Julie A. , Innes Roger W. , Nettleton Dan , Bogdanove Adam J. , Wise Roger P.
Published: May 2015

The authors have retracted ‘Broadly Conserved Fungal Effector BEC1019 Suppresses Host Cell Death and Enhances Pathogen Virulence in Powdery Mildew of Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.)’ by Ehren Whigham, Shan Qi, Divya Mistry, Priyanka Surana, Ruo Xu, Gregory Fuerst, Clara Pliego, Laurence V. Bindschedler, Pietro D. Spanu, Julie A. Dickerson, Roger W. Innes, Dan Nettleton, Adam J. Bogdanove, and Roger P. Wise published in Mol. Plant-Microbe Interact. Vol. 28, pages 968–983, doi: 10.1094/MPMI-02-15-0027-FI. In a re-examination of some of the results of the bacterial type III secretion–based assays, the authors discovered a confounding effect of the titer of the bacterium used that had not been controlled for, rendering some of the experimental results presented in the paper inconclusive. For details, please see their letter to the editor [Carter et al. 2018]. This article was retracted on 24 May 2018.
Controlling Rhizoctonia Damping-off of Chinese Mustard by Using Endomycorrhizal Rhizoctonia spp. Isolated from Orchid Mycorrhizae
Authors: Jiang Jr-Hau , Tam Si-Loi , Toda Takeshi , Chen Lung-Chung
Published: May 2015

Inoculation of hypovirulent Rhizoctonia spp. has been recognized as an effective strategy for protecting plants against damping-off caused by pathogenic Rhizoctonia spp. In this study, endomycorrhizal Rhizoctonia spp. isolated from fungal pelotons in orchid plants were used for controlling Rhizoctonia damping-off of Chinese mustard. According to phylogenetic analysis and anastomosis group (AG) determination, the virulence of three isolates of multinucleate Rhizoctonia solani in AG-6; eight isolates of binucleate Rhizoctonia in AG-A, AG-B, AG-G, AG-P, and AG-R; and two isolates of binucleate R. repens were evaluated using test plants. All isolates, except that in AG-R, caused low disease severity in 10-day-old radish (0.10 to 0.61), cucumber (0.28 to 0.54), and Chinese mustard (0.18 to 0.65). By contrast, pathogenic isolates in AG-4 killed almost all test plants with symptoms of collapsed hypocotyl and wilted leaves (0.88 to 0.96). Of the 13 endomycorrhizal Rhizoctonia isolates assessed, AG-P isolates Cno10-3 and CalS1-2 provided 91 and 100% protection, respectively, against R. solani AG-4 in 26-day-old Chinese mustard. This study revealed that endomycorrhizal Rhizoctonia spp. in orchid have the potential to biologically control damping-off of Chinese mustard.
First Report of Rhodococcus Isolates Causing Pistachio Bushy Top Syndrome on ‘UCB-1’ Rootstock in California and Arizona
Authors: Stamler Rio A. , Kilcrease James , Kallsen Craig , Fichtner Elizabeth J. , Cooke Peter , Heerema Richard J. , Randall Jennifer J.
Published: May 2015

‘UCB-1’ (Pistacia atlantica × Pistacia integerrima) rootstock is a hybrid cultivar widely used by the U.S. pistachio industry. In the last three years, a large number of micropropagated UCB-1 pistachio rootstocks planted in California and Arizona orchards exhibited shortened internodes, stunted growth, swollen lateral buds, bushy/bunchy growth, stem galls with multiple buds, and twisted roots with minimal lateral branching. Field T-budding success in affected orchards was reduced to approximately 30% with unusual bark cracking often observed around the bud-union. The percentage of abnormal rootstocks within affected orchards varied from 10 to 90%. We have termed the cumulative symptoms “pistachio bushy top syndrome” (PBTS) to describe these affected trees. Two isolates, both containing virulence factors from the phytopathogen Rhodococcus fascians, were identified on symptomatic trees in field and nursery samples. Micropropagated UCB-1 trees inoculated with the Rhodococcus isolates exhibited stunted growth, shortened internode length, swollen lateral buds, sylleptic branching, and differences in root morphology, compared with control UCB-1 trees. To our knowledge, this is the first report of Rhodococcus isolates, related to Rhodococcus fascians, causing disease on a commercial tree crop and the results presented indicate that this organism is responsible at least in part for PBTS in California and Arizona.
Development of a DNA Macroarray for the Detection and Identification of Fungal Pathogens Causing Decline of Young Grapevines
Authors: Úrbez-Torres J. R. , Haag P. , Bowen P. , Lowery T. , O’Gorman D. T.
Published: May 2015

Young vine decline (YVD) is a complex disease caused by at least 51 different fungi and responsible for important economic losses to the grapevine industry worldwide. YVD fungi are known to occur in planting material. Hence, detection prior to planting is critical to assure longevity of newly established vineyards. A DNA macroarray based on reverse dot-blot hybridization containing 102 oligonucleotides complementary to portions of the β-tubulin region was developed for detection of YVD fungi. Specificity of the array was first evaluated against 138 pure fungal cultures representing 72 different taxa from nine genera, including 37 YVD species. In total, 61 species, including 34 YVD pathogens, were detected and identified by the array. The detection limit of the array was below 0.1 pg of genomic DNA. The array was validated against artificially inoculated canes and soil and commercial planting material, with the latter showing a high incidence of YVD fungi in nursery plants otherwise not detected by traditional plating and culturing. This DNA array proved to be a rapid and specific tool to simultaneously detect and identify most YVD fungi in a single test, which has the potential to be used in commercial diagnostics or by the grapevine nursery industry to determine the health status of the planting material.
Genome analysis leads to discovery of Quorum Sensing Genes inCedecea neteri
Authors: Tan Kian-Hin , Chan Kok-Gan
Published: May 2015

We have identified a strain of C. neteri SSMD04 isolated from pickled mackerel sashimi that produced N-acyl-homoserine lactone (AHL) type quorum sensing (QS) activity. Tandem mass sspectrometry revealed that C. neteri SSMD04 produced N-butyryl-homoserine lactone (C4-HSL). We identified a pair of luxIR homologues in this genome that shares the highest similarity with croIR from Citrobacter rodentium. The AHL synthase, which we named it as cneI (636 bp) and at 8bp distance from cneI is a sequence encoding a hypothetical protein, potentially the cognate receptor, a luxR homologue which we named it as cneR. We also found an orphan luxR in this isolate. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the AHL production activity in C. neteri, discovery of its luxI/R homologues and the orphan receptor.
Tropical Soil Metagenome Library Reveals Complex Microbial Assemblage
Authors: Chan Kok Gan , Ismail Zahidah
Published: May 2015

In this work, we characterized the metagenome of a Malaysian mangrove soil sample via next generation sequencing (NGS). Shotgun NGS data analysis revealed high diversity of microbes from Bacteria and Archaea domains. The metabolic potential of the metagenome was reconstructed using the NGS data and the SEED classification in MEGAN shows abundance of virulence factor genes, implying that mangrove soil is potential reservoirs of pathogens.
Designing and interpreting limiting dilution assays: general principles and applications to the latent reservoir for HIV-1
Authors: Rosenbloom Daniel I S , Elliott Oliver , Hill Alison L , Henrich Timothy J , Siliciano Janet M , Siliciano Robert F
Published: May 2015

Limiting dilution assays are commonly used to measure the extent of infection, and in the context of HIV they represent an essential tool for studying latency and potential curative strategies. To assist investigators using dilution assays, we illustrate the major statistical method for estimating the frequency of infected cells (or other infectious units) from assay results, and we offer an online tool for computing this estimate. We then recommend a procedure for optimizing assay design to achieve any desired set of sensitivity and precision goals, subject to experimental constraints. We discuss challenges involved in interpreting experiments in which no viral growth is observed and explain how using alternative measures for viral outgrowth may make measurement of HIV latency more efficient. Finally, we discuss how biological complications -- such as probabilistic growth of a small infection in culture -- alter interpretations of experimental results.
Physicochemical, microbiological, textural and sensory changes during the ripening of pasteurised goat milk cheese made with plant coagulant (Cynara scolymus)
Authors: García Víctor , Rovira Silvia , Boutoial Khalid , Ferrandini Eduardo , López María Belén
Published: May 2015

This study describes the changes that occur during the ripening of cheeses made with a plant coagulant derived from artichoke flowers (Cynara scolymus). The results indicate that the physicochemical composition during ripening evolves similarly to other cheeses. The texture and sensory features of the cheeses during ripening evolved differently from that observed for other goat cheeses. Although it is common for a bitter taste to develop during the ripening of cheeses elaborated with plant coagulants, bitterness was scored very low in the cheeses made with artichoke, so that these cheeses could be suitable for marketing.
Production of a whey‐based functional beverage supplemented with soy isoflavones and phytosterols
Authors: Seyhan Emine , Yaman Hülya , Özer Barbaros
Published: May 2015

Reconstituted whey beverages were prepared from whey powder by adding either soy isoflavones or phytosterols as functional compounds (at levels of 0%, 0.25%, 0.50% or 1.0% w/v) and probiotic bacteria (Lactobacillus acidophilus LA‐5 or Lactobacillus casei LBC‐81). The addition of nutraceuticals did not change the basic composition of the products. However, a time‐dependent increase in sedimentation/phase separation and acidity of fermented functional beverages was observed. Samples supplemented with phytosterols were more preferred by the panel group than the samples supplemented with isoflavones, and no considerable differences were noted between the control and phytosterol‐added samples in terms of overall perception.
Growth in Western Australian emergency department demand during 2007–2013 is due to people with urgent and complex care needs
Authors: Aboagye‐Sarfo Patrick , Mai Qun , Sanfilippo Frank M , Preen David B , Stewart Louise M , Fatovich Daniel M
Published: May 2015

Objectives

To determine the magnitude and characteristics of the increase in ED demand in Western Australia (WA) from 2007 to 2013.

Methods

We conducted a population‐based longitudinal study examining trends in ED demand, stratified by area of residence, age group, sex, Australasian Triage Scale category and discharge disposition. The outcome measures were annual number and rate of ED presentations. We calculated average annual growth, and age‐specific and age‐standardised rates. We assessed the statistical significance of trends, overall and within each category, using the Mann–Kendall trend test and analysis of variance ANOVA. We also calculated the proportions of growth in ED demand that were attributable to changes in population and utilisation rate.

Results

From 2007 to 2013, ED presentations increased by an average 4.6% annually from 739 742 to 945 244. The rate increased 1.4% from 354.1 to 382.6 per 1000 WA population (P = 0.02 for the trend). The main increase occurred in metropolitan WA, age 45+ years, triage category 2 and 3 and admitted cohorts. Approximately three‐quarters of this increase was due to population change (growth and ageing) and one‐quarter due to increase in utilisation.

Conclusion

Our study reveals a 4.6% annual increase in ED demand in WA in 2007–2013, mostly because of an increase in people with urgent and complex care needs, and not a shift (demand transfer) from primary care. This indicates that a system‐wide integrated approach is required for demand management.
FOAMSearch.net: A custom search engine for emergency medicine and critical care
Authors: Raine Todd , Thoma Brent , Chan Teresa M , Lin Michelle
Published: May 2015

The number of online resources read by and pertinent to clinicians has increased dramatically. However, most healthcare professionals still use mainstream search engines as their primary port of entry to the resources on the Internet. These search engines use algorithms that do not make it easy to find clinician‐oriented resources. FOAMSearch, a custom search engine (CSE), was developed to find relevant, high‐quality online resources for emergency medicine and critical care (EMCC) clinicians. Using GoogleTM algorithms, it searches a vetted list of >300 blogs, podcasts, wikis, knowledge translation tools, clinical decision support tools and medical journals. Utilisation has increased progressively to >3000 users/month since its launch in 2011. Further study of the role of CSEs to find medical resources is needed, and it might be possible to develop similar CSEs for other areas of medicine.
Adrenaline in cardiac arrest: Prefilled syringes are faster
Authors: Helm Claire , Gillett Mark
Published: May 2015

Objective

Standard ampoules and prefilled syringes of adrenaline are widely available in Australasian EDs for use in cardiac arrest. We hypothesise that prefilled syringes can be administered more rapidly and accurately when compared with the two available standard ampoules.

Methods

This is a triple arm superiority study comparing the time to i.v. administration and accuracy of dosing of three currently available preparations of adrenaline.

Results

In their standard packaging, prefilled syringes were on average more than 12 s faster to administer than the 1 mL 1:1000 ampoules and more than 16 s faster than the 10 mL 1:10 000 ampoules (P < 0.01 in both comparisons). With packaging removed, the time to administration was equal for the 1 mL (1:1000) ampoule and the prefilled syringe. Accuracy of dosing was excellent with both the 10 mL (1:10 000) ampoules and prefilled syringes. The 1 mL (1:1000) ampoules delivered a small number of markedly inaccurate doses, but these did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusions

The speed of administration of adrenaline utilising a Minijet (CSL Limited, Parkville, Victoria, Australia) is faster than using adrenaline in glass ampoules presented in their plastic packaging. Removing the plastic packaging from the 1 mL (1 mg) ampoule might result in more rapid administration similar to the Minijet. Resuscitation personnel requiring rapid access to adrenaline should consider storing it as either Minijets or ampoules devoid of packaging. These results might be extrapolatable to other clinical scenarios, including pre‐hospital and anaesthesia, where other drugs are required for rapid use.
Mechanisms, injuries and helmet use in cyclists presenting to an inner city emergency department
Authors: Dinh Michael M , Kastelein Christopher , Hopkins Roy , Royle Timothy J , Bein Kendall J , Chalkley Dane R , Ivers Rebecca
Published: May 2015

Objectives

The objectives of the present study were to describe the injury profiles of cyclists presenting to an ED and determine the risk of significant head injury associated with bicycle helmet use.

Methods

This was a retrospective single trauma centre study of all adult cyclists presenting to an inner city ED and undergoing a trauma team review between January 2012 and June 2014. The outcome of interest was significant head injury defined as any head injury with an Abbreviated Injury Scale score of two or more. Variables analysed included demographic characteristics, helmet use at time of incident, location, time and the presence of intoxication.

Results

The most common body regions were upper limb injuries (57%), followed by head injuries (43%), facial injuries (30%) and lower limb injuries (24%). A lower proportion of people wearing helmets had significant head injury (17% vs 31%, P = 0.018) or facial injury (26% vs 48%, P = 0.0017) compared with non‐helmet users. After adjustment for important covariates, helmet use was associated with a 70% decrease in the odds of significant head injury (odds ratio 0.34, 95% confidence interval 0.15, 0.76, P = 0.008).

Conclusions

Head injuries were common after inner city cycling incidents. The use of helmets was associated with a reduction in significant head injury.
Psychometric assessment of the Japanese version of the Revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire: reliability and validity
Authors: Isomura Tatsuya , Nakamura Ikuro , Kawaguchi Mika , Sato Emiko , Inuzuka Kyoko , Osada Kenichi , Nishioka Kenya , Hayakawa Kazuhiro
Published: May 2015

Aim

To assess the psychometric properties of the Japanese version of the Revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (JFIQR) in fibromyalgia (FM) patients.

Method

The reliability and validity of the JFIQR were assessed using online data collected from Japanese FM patients. Reliability was evaluated based on test‐retest reliability results and internal consistency; validity was evaluated on the basis of concurrent and known‐group validity.

Results

A total of 105 patients completed the online questionnaire. Intra‐class correlation coefficients for test‐retest were 0.91 for the JFIQR total score with a range of 0.84–0.90 in three domains: function, overall impact and symptoms. Internal consistency results indicated a Cronbach's alpha of 0.90 for the total score with a range of 0.83 and 0.85 for the domains. Concurrent validity results showed that the total score was correlated to all external criteria (Japanese version of the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire, Fibromyalgia Activity Scale‐31, Medical Outcomes Study 36‐item Short‐Form health survey) from a moderate to strong degree with most indicating a strong correlation. Results of known‐group validity showed that the JFIQR total score is capable of discriminating between FM and the other groups, such as rheumatic arthritis and no chronic pain (P < 0.0001 for all pairwise comparisons).

Conclusion

The current psychometric assessment of the JFIQR demonstrated that it is a reliable and valid questionnaire in Japanese patients with FM. Usefulness of the JFIQR in clinical studies and medical practice for Japanese‐speaking populations is expected.
Incidence of severe local anaesthetic toxicity and adoption of lipid rescue in Finnish anaesthesia departments in 2011–2013
Authors: Heinonen J. A. , Litonius E. , Pitkänen M. , Rosenberg P. H.
Published: May 2015

Background

Although the incidence of severe local anaesthetic systemic toxicity (LAST) has been declining, the risk of LAST still remains. There are no national treatment guidelines for LAST in Finland. We performed a national survey of the occurrence of LAST and its treatment in 2011–2013.

Methods

A structured electronic questionnaire was sent to the anaesthesia department chiefs of all Finnish public hospitals (n = 45) in spring 2014. We collected information about the occurrence and outcome of LASTs and existence of treatment protocols.

Results

The questionnaire response rate was 100% covering approximately 95% of all regional anaesthesias managed by anaesthesiologists in Finnish hospitals. The total number of regional anaesthesias, excluding spinal anaesthesia, performed by anaesthesiologists was approximately 211,700 during the survey period. Fifteen cases of LAST were reported (0.7 : 10,000); all patients recovered without negative sequelae. Fourteen patients, in five of whom ultrasound guidance had been applied, developed central nervous system toxicity symptoms and only one cardiac symptoms. Lipid emulsion was given to this latter patient, and to four of the other 14. The relative risk (95% confidence intervals) for occurrence of LAST in non‐academic hospital vs. university hospitals was 3.3 (1.0–10.3; P = 0.04). Treatment protocols for LAST included lipid emulsion in 47% of the departments.

Conclusions

The incidence of LAST in Finland is very low. Several departments have adopted lipid emulsion treatment for LAST despite lack of national recommendations and knowledge of the possible mechanism of action.
Amyloid β: one of three danger‐associated molecules that are secondary inducers of the proinflammatory cytokines that mediate Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Clark I A , Vissel B
Published: May 2015

This review concerns how the primary inflammation preceding the generation of certain key damage‐associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) arises in Alzheimer's disease (AD). In doing so, it places soluble amyloid β (Aβ), a protein hitherto considered as a primary initiator of AD, in a novel perspective. We note here that increased soluble Aβ is one of the proinflammatory cytokine‐induced DAMPs recognized by at least one of the toll‐like receptors on and in various cell types. Moreover, Aβ is best regarded as belonging to a class of DAMPs, as do the S100 proteins and HMBG1, that further exacerbate production of these same proinflammatory cytokines, which are already enhanced, and induces them further. Moreover, variation in levels of other DAMPs of this same class in AD may explain why normal elderly patients can exhibit high Aβ plaque levels, and why removing Aβ or its plaque does not retard disease progression. It may also explain why mouse transgenic models, having been designed to generate high Aβ, can be treated successfully by this approach.
Diagnostic ability of macular ganglion cell asymmetry for glaucoma
Authors: Hwang Young Hoon , Ahn Sang Il , Ko Sung Ju
Published: May 2015

Background

Using spectral‐domain optical coherence tomography (OCT), this study aims to investigate the glaucoma diagnostic ability of macular ganglion cell asymmetry analysis.

Design

A cross‐sectional study was conducted. This study was performed to investigate glaucoma diagnostic ability of macular ganglion cell asymmetry analysis in eyes with various degrees of glaucoma.

Participants

We enrolled 181 healthy eyes and 265 glaucomatous eyes.

Methods

Glaucomatous eyes were subdivided into pre‐perimetric, early, moderate and advanced‐to‐severe glaucoma based on visual field test results. For each eye, macular ganglion cell‐inner plexiform layer (GCIPL) thickness was measured using OCT. Average GCIPL thickness, GCIPL thicknesses in superior and inferior hemispheres, absolute difference in GCIPL thickness between superior and inferior hemispheres and GCIPL asymmetry index calculated as the absolute value of log10 (inferior hemisphere thickness/superior hemisphere thickness) were analysed.

Main Outcome Measures

Areas under the receiver operating characteristics curves (AUCs) of GCIPL parameter were calculated and compared.

Results

All of the GCIPL parameters showed good glaucoma diagnostic ability (AUCs ≥ 0.817, P < 0.01). AUCs of average, superior and inferior GCIPL thickness increased as the severity of glaucoma increased. GCIPL thickness difference and asymmetry index showed the highest AUCs in early and moderate glaucoma and lower AUCs in pre‐perimetric and advanced‐to‐severe glaucoma. GCIPL thickness difference and asymmetry index showed better glaucoma diagnostic ability than other GCIPL parameters only in early stage of glaucoma (P < 0.05); in other stages, these parameters had similar to or worse glaucoma diagnostic ability than other GCIPL parameters.

Conclusions

Macular ganglion cell asymmetry analysis showed good glaucoma diagnostic ability, especially in early‐stage glaucoma. However, it has limited usefulness in other stages of glaucoma.
A Review of Eye Gaze in Virtual Agents, Social Robotics and HCI: Behaviour Generation, User Interaction and Perception
Authors: Ruhland K. , Peters C. E. , Andrist S. , Badler J. B. , Badler N. I. , Gleicher M. , Mutlu B. , McDonnell R.
Published: May 2015

A person's emotions and state of mind are apparent in their face and eyes. As a Latin proverb states: ‘The face is the portrait of the mind; the eyes, its informers’. This presents a significant challenge for Computer Graphics researchers who generate artificial entities that aim to replicate the movement and appearance of the human eye, which is so important in human–human interactions. This review article provides an overview of the efforts made on tackling this demanding task. As with many topics in computer graphics, a cross‐disciplinary approach is required to fully understand the workings of the eye in the transmission of information to the user. We begin with a discussion of the movement of the eyeballs, eyelids and the head from a physiological perspective and how these movements can be modelled, rendered and animated in computer graphics applications. Furthermore, we present recent research from psychology and sociology that seeks to understand higher level behaviours, such as attention and eye gaze, during the expression of emotion or during conversation. We discuss how these findings are synthesized in computer graphics and can be utilized in the domains of Human–Robot Interaction and Human–Computer Interaction for allowing humans to interact with virtual agents and other artificial entities. We conclude with a summary of guidelines for animating the eye and head from the perspective of a character animator.
An Analysis of the Time Course of Lexical Processing During Reading
Authors: Sheridan Heather , Reichle Erik D.
Published: May 2015

Reingold, Reichle, Glaholt, and Sheridan (2012) reported a gaze‐contingent eye‐movement experiment in which survival‐curve analyses were used to examine the effects of word frequency, the availability of parafoveal preview, and initial fixation location on the time course of lexical processing. The key results of these analyses suggest that lexical processing begins very rapidly (after approximately 120 ms) and is supported by substantial parafoveal processing (more than 100 ms). Because it is not immediately obvious that these results are congruent with the theoretical assumption that words are processed and identified in a strictly serial manner, we attempted to simulate the experiment using the E‐Z Reader model of eye‐movement control (Reichle, 2011). These simulations were largely consistent with the empirical results, suggesting that parafoveal processing does play an important functional role by allowing lexical processing to occur rapidly enough to mediate direct control over when the eyes move during reading.
The meaning of leisure for children and young people with physical disabilities: a systematic evidence synthesis
Authors: Powrie Benita , Kolehmainen Niina , Turpin Merrill , Ziviani Jenny , Copley Jodie
Published: May 2015

Aim

Participation in leisure has known health benefits. Children and young people (CYP) with physical disabilities demonstrate reduced participation in leisure. To facilitate their meaningful participation, one must understand what leisure means to CYP. The aim of this study was to systematically synthesize evidence from qualitative studies on the meaning of leisure for CYP with physical disabilities.

Methods

CINAHL, MEDLINE, AMED, EMBASE, PsycINFO, and ERIC were searched periodically from January 2012 until May 2013. Qualitative studies reporting the views of CYP (0–18y) with physical disabilities on leisure participation were included. The analysis involved thematic syntheses, double coding, and established quality appraisal procedures.

Results

Twelve studies met inclusion criteria, addressing the leisure experiences of 146 CYP with disabilities. Four themes core to the meaning of leisure for these CYP were (1) ‘fun’: the enjoyment and pleasure experienced from leisure; (2) ‘freedom’ of choice and from constraints; (3) ‘fulfilment’: discovering, developing, and displaying potential; and (4) ‘friendship’: social connectedness and belonging.

Interpretation

The identified themes resonate with the psychological needs outlined by self‐determination theory: fun relates to satisfaction and intrinsic motivation; freedom relates to ‘autonomy’; fulfilment relates to a belief in 'competence'; and friendship resonates with ‘relatedness’. Social context had an impact on all of these themes, indicating that this is an important target for leisure participation interventions.
Home ranges in moving habitats: polar bears and sea ice
Authors: Auger‐Méthé Marie , Lewis Mark A. , Derocher Andrew E.
Published: May 2015

Home range size estimates are often used to assess the amount of space required for animals to perform the activities essential for their survival and reproduction. However, in moving environments, traditional home range estimates may be ill suited to this task. In particular, traditional home range estimates are inaccurate representations of the space required by polar bearsUrsus maritimus. The sea ice is the prime foraging platform of polar bears, and estimating the amount of ice encountered by bears may provide a better approximation of space use. We develop a technique to make these estimates. Our results confirm that polar bears use more space than terrestrial carnivores to find the resources and conditions they require. We also show that the traditional geographic home range can underestimate both the movement of bears and the amount of space encountered. Moreover, area of ice encountered increased with ice drift, indicating that bears living on highly mobile ice might be exposed to higher energetic costs, and potentially larger energetic gains, than bears inhabiting more stable ice. The methods and concepts presented here can serve as a foundation for new approaches to study the space use of the many species living in moving environments.
Decoding the conformation‐linked functional properties of nucleic acids by the use of computational tools
Authors: Iacovelli Federico , Falconi Mattia
Published: May 2015

DNA and RNA are large and flexible polymers selected by nature to transmit information. The most common DNA three‐dimensional structure is represented by the double helix, but this biopolymer is extremely flexible and polymorphic, and can easily change its conformation to adapt to different interactions and purposes. DNA can also adopt singular topologies, giving rise, for instance, to supercoils, formed because of the limited free rotation of the DNA domain flanking a replication or transcription complex. Our understanding of the importance of these unusual or transient structures is growing, as recent studies of DNA topology, supercoiling, knotting and linking have shown that the geometric changes can drive, or strongly influence, the interactions between protein and DNA, so altering its own metabolism. On the other hand, the unique self‐recognition properties of DNA, determined by the strict Watson–Crick rules of base pairing, make this material ideal for the creation of self‐assembling, predesigned nanostructures. The construction of such structures is one of the main focuses of the thriving area of DNA nanotechnology, where several assembly strategies have been employed to build increasingly complex DNA nanostructures. DNA nanodevices can have direct applications in biomedicine, but also in the materials science field, requiring the immersion of DNA in an environment far from the physiological one. Crucial help in the understanding and planning of natural and artificial nanostructures is given by modern computer simulation techniques, which are able to provide a reliable structural and dynamic description of nucleic acids.
The roles of resource availability and competition in mediating growth rates of invasive and native freshwater snails
Authors: Riley Leslie A. , Dybdahl Mark F.
Published: May 2015

The classic paradigm in community ecology is that competition structures communities, limiting the number of species that can coexist. Under this paradigm, highly diverse communities should be biotically resistant to invasion. However, the importance of biotic resistance in repelling invasions might depend on resources because high resource availability can increase growth rates of invasive species and either reduce or increase competitive effects of invasive species on native community members.

We tested how experimentally altered resource levels affected growth rates of an invasive (Potamopyrgus antipodarum) and a native snail (Pyrgulopsis robusta) and interspecific competition between them. Potamopyrgus and Pyrgulopis are the dominant macroinvertebrates in streams within the range of the locally endemic Pyrgulopsis in Wyoming, U.S.A.

In the absence of competition, we found that Potamopyrgus always grew faster than Pyrgulopsis at both high and low resource levels. In the presence of interspecific competition, Potamopyrgus growth rates were not affected by resource levels or the biomass of Pyrgulopsis competitors. On the other hand, Pyrgulopsis grew slower at low resource levels and especially when the biomass of Potamopyrgus competitors was high.

These results indicate that negative effects of Potamopyrgus on Pyrgulopsis growth rates were stronger at low resource levels. In contrast, Pyrgulopsis did not reduce Potamopyrgus growth under any resource scenario. Thus, increased resource availability seems to mitigate strong competitive effects of Potamopyrgus on the native snail in this stream.
Resilient communities: transitions, pathways and resourcefulness
Authors: Robinson Guy M , Carson Doris A
Published: May 2015

This is a Review Essay. It uses as a starting point ideas from the recent book by Geoff A Wilson, Community resilience and environmental transitions, to develop arguments about the nature of work by geographers on the resilience of human communities. It considers the legacy of ideas about resilience derived from ecology and engineering, whilst noting a third interpretation relating to adaptive resilience and the contribution of work from psychology on resilience in individuals. The Review addresses the notion of ‘community capital’, considering how ideas from Pierre Bourdieu have been extended in the past two decades, including attempts to measure various capitals. Scale effects of resilience are examined as is the development of theory linking multi‐functionality and resilience. Related work on adaptability and transition pathways are also addressed as are contributions on the resilience of cities and regions. The Review concludes by presenting critiques of some of the work on resilience, whilst referring to potential alternatives and potentially fruitful future lines of inquiry.
Wearing complete dentures is associated with changes in the three‐dimensional shape of the oropharynx in edentulous older people that affect swallowing
Authors: Furuya Junichi , Tamada Yasushi , Sato Tomohide , Hara Atsushi , Nomura Taro , Kobayashi Takuya , Sakai Maiko , Kondo Hisatomo
Published: May 2015

Objective

To investigate the effects of wearing complete dentures on pharyngeal shape for swallowing in edentulous older people.

Background

In the absence of complete dentures, edentulous older people often lose the occlusal support necessary to position the mandible, which leads to an anterosuperior shift of the mandible during swallowing. This may result in pharyngeal shape changes effecting swallowing function in older people. However, the details of this phenomenon are currently unclear.

Materials and methods

Participants were 17 older edentulous volunteers. Cone‐beam computed tomography imaging was performed with the participant in the seated position and wearing (i) both maxillary and mandibular dentures, (ii) maxillary dentures only and (iii) no dentures. During imaging, participants were instructed to keep their mouth closed to the mandibular position determined in advance during swallowing for each denture‐wearing condition. The volume, height and average cross‐sectional area of the velopharynx and oropharynx were measured, and the positions of the epiglottis and mandible were recorded.

Results

While the vertical height of the oral cavity and pharynx significantly decreased, the volume and average cross‐sectional area of the oropharynx significantly increased when dentures were not worn (p < 0.01). The absence of dentures caused an anterosuperior shift of the mandible when swallowing and drew the epiglottis forward, resulting in expansion of the oropharynx where the tongue base forms the anterior wall.

Conclusion

The absence of dentures results in anatomical changes in oropharyngeal shape that may exacerbate the pharyngeal expansion caused by ageing and reduce the swallowing reserve.
Discovery of an NRF1‐specific inducer from a large‐scale chemical library using a direct NRF1‐protein monitoring system
Authors: Tsujita Tadayuki , Baird Liam , Furusawa Yuki , Katsuoka Fumiki , Hou Yoshika , Gotoh Satomi , Kawaguchi Shin‐ichi , Yamamoto Masayuki
Published: May 2015

NRF1 (NF‐E2‐p45‐related factor 1) plays an important role in the regulation of genes encoding proteasome subunits, a cystine transporter, and lipid‐metabolizing enzymes. Global and tissue‐specific disruptions of the Nrf1 gene in mice result in embryonic lethality and spontaneous development of severe tissue defects, respectively, suggesting NRF1 plays a critical role in vivo. Mechanistically, the continuous degradation of the NRF1 protein by the proteasome is regarded as a major regulatory nexus of NRF1 activity. To develop NRF1‐specific inducers that act to overcome the phenotypes related to the lack of NRF1 activity, we constructed a novel NRF1ΔC‐Luc fusion protein reporter and developed cell lines that stably express the reporter in Hepa1c1c7 cells for use in high‐throughput screening. In screening of a chemical library with this reporter system, we identified two hit compounds that significantly induced luciferase activity. Through an examination of a series of derivatives of one of the hit compounds, we identified T1‐20, which induced a 70‐fold increase in luciferase activity. T1‐20 significantly increased the level of NRF1 protein in the mouse liver, indicating that the compound is also functional in vivo. Thus, these results show the successful identification of the first small chemical compounds which specifically and significantly induce NRF1.
Population genetics of the endangered obligatorily myrmecophilous butterfly Phengaris (=Maculinea) arion in two areas of its European range
Authors: Sielezniew Marcin , Patricelli Dario , Rutkowski Robert , Witek Magdalena , Bonelli Simona , Buś Magdalena M.
Published: May 2015

The socially parasitic Phengaris arion is one of the most threatened butterfly species in Europe. Using 12 microsatellite loci, we studied the genetic structure of 14 ecologically diverse populations (285 individuals) originating from two distinct areas of the European distribution range (Poland and Italy).

Italian populations were more differentiated (FST = 0.124) than Polish populations (0.073). Nevertheless, in contrast to the results of previous studies on mitochondrial (COI) and nuclear (EF‐1α) genes, indices of genetic variability were higher in Poland. Within‐population genetic variability in Italy decreased southwards, whereas in Poland no similar gradient of changes was detected.

Bayesian clustering of individuals (STRUCTURE, BAPS) and analysis of principal components (PCA) indicated a genetic structure in Italian sampling sites that was more pronounced than in Poland. The analysis also suggested a common evolutionary history for populations inhabiting the northern slopes of the Alps and Central Europe, or that the alpine populations are localised in a mixed zone of different post‐glacial colonisation routes (STRUCTURE, PCA). In addition, implementation of spatial information into the analysis (BAPS) suggested that the observed pattern of differentiation could be shaped simply by landforms as all Italian sampling sites and two mountainous Polish sites formed separate cluster.

The pattern of ecological variation did not influence genetic structure and no grounds for separation of subspecies (P. arion ligurica and P. arion obscura) were found. Our results are therefore in agreement with conclusions inferred from other studies carried out in Europe on P. arion.
Randomized, double‐blinded, vehicle‐controlled, split‐face study to evaluate the effects of topical application of a Gold Silk Sericin/Niacinamide/Signaline complex on biophysical parameters related to skin ageing
Authors: Berardesca E. , Ardigo M. , Cameli N. , Mariano M. , Agozzino M. , Matts P.J.
Published: May 2015

Synopsis

Objective

To investigate the effects of topical application of a Gold Silk Sericin (GSS) complex on biophysical parameters related to skin ageing.

Methods

A range of non‐invasive bioengineering methods were deployed in an 8‐week randomized, double‐blinded, vehicle‐controlled, split‐face study among 40 female subjects aged 40–70. Endpoints measured included expert grades of skin condition, stratum corneum (SC) hydration, SC barrier function, elasticity and surface topography.

Results

The GSS complex produced significant single‐variable (P < 0.05) improvements in SC hydration, barrier function, elasticity and surface topography compared with the Vehicle control.

Conclusion

The GSS complex examined in this study represents an interesting new cosmetic topical technology with which to address multiple aspects of aged/photoaged female facial skin.
Food waste paradox: antecedents of food disposal in low income households
Authors: Porpino Gustavo , Parente Juracy , Wansink Brian
Published: May 2015

This article aims to identify antecedents of food waste among lower‐middle class families – a paradox, given the financial constraints this population faces. The importance of this research is evident in escalating environmental pressures for better use of our planet's scarce resources. Given that most of the world is low‐income, any behavioral change in this population is likely to have a considerable impact. Empirical data were collected from 14 lower‐middle income Brazilian households, based on observations, in‐depth interviews, photographs and a focus group (n = 6). Five major categories of food waste antecedents were identified: (1) excessive purchasing, (2) over‐preparation, (3) caring for a pet, (4) avoidance of leftovers and (5) inappropriate food conservation. Several subcategories were also found, including impulse buying, lack of planning and preference for large packages. Surprisingly, findings show that strategies used to save money – such as buying groceries in bulk, monthly shopping trips, preference for supermarkets and cooking from scratch – actually end up generating more food waste. This mitigates the savings made during the purchasing phase.
Framing consumer education conceptual innovations as consumer activism
Authors: McGregor Sue L.T.
Published: May 2015

This position paper developed the argument that creating innovative and forward‐thinking conceptual approaches to consumer education is aproactiveprocess, the trademark of consumer activism. Assuming that (re)conceptualizing consumer education is a form of consumer activism, this article identified the conceptual contributions and intellectual innovations of 24 consumer education initiatives in North America (1962–2012). Using an historical analysis method, this study profiled consumer educators who tried to stay ahead of the curve by creating leading‐edge approaches to socializing people into their consumer role. In effect, they were expressing their personal and intellectual convictions about the potential and possibilities of consumer education as a means to promote change to protect and empower people in their consumer‐citizen role.
Conceptualizing and measuring consumer social responsibility: a neglected aspect of consumer research
Authors: Quazi Ali , Amran Azlan , Nejati Mehran
Published: May 2015

Despite the availability of extensive research on a wide range of consumer‐related areas, some socially sensitive consumer issues have still remained relatively unexplored. Since literature review revealed a gap in the conceptualization of consumer social responsibilities, this article conceptualized, developed and validated a measurement scale for consumer social responsibility (CnSR), using a rigorous methodology suggested in the scale development literature. The study responded to the scholarly calls for further research in this area. Using a total sample of 491 respondents (53 respondents for pilot, 207 for exploratory survey and 231 for confirmatory survey), the study proposed a six‐dimensional measurement scale for CnSR, including: (1) social impacts, (2) solidarity, (3) critical appraisal, (4) supporting business growth, (5) environmental impacts and (6) action. It is argued that with ever growing impacts of corporate social responsibility on business practices, the validated measurement scale will contribute to the advancement of research in this nascent consumer area.
Compositions, flavour and antiradical properties of products from subcritical water treatment of raw Isada krill
Authors: Koomyart Intira , Nagamizu Hironori , Khuwijitjaru Pramote , Kobayashi Takashi , Shiga Hirokazu , Yoshii Hidefumi , Adachi Shuji
Published: May 2015

Comparative analysis of subcritical water (SCW) treatment and ambient pressure boiling one of raw Isada krill was performed for the nutritive, flavour and antiradical properties of krill extracts and residues as well as the molecular mass and odour intensity of the extract. SCW treatment was performed for 10 min in a batch‐type vessel in the temperature range of 100–240 °C, using a 1:1 weight ratio of raw krill to water. Higher protein and lipid contents were obtained by SCW treatment relative to boiling. The lipid content of the SCW extracts increased with increasing treatment temperature. Protein was the main component in these extracts, and the highest protein content was achieved by SCW treatment at 200 °C. High‐molecular‐mass species decomposed under SCW treatment at high temperatures with consequent generation of smaller molecules. The antiradical activity of the SCW extract, determined by DPPH and ABTS assays, increased with increasing treatment temperature. The krill extracts and residues exhibited shrimp‐like flavour, and the most desirable flavour was obtained by SCW treatment at 140 °C or 160 °C for 10 min. The treatment would be applicable for the production of seasonings from Isada krill.
Influence of processing on the antioxidant capacity and bioactive compounds in jellies from different blackberry cultivars
Authors: de Souza Vanessa Rios , Pereira Patrícia Aparecida Pimenta , Teixeira Taísa Rezende , Silva Thais Lomônaco Teodoro da , Pio Rafael , Queiroz Fabiana
Published: May 2015

The effect of thermal processing and the berry cultivar has been the subject of several studies, to serve as a basis for the least possible loss of bioactive compounds and antioxidant capacity. In Brazil, there are numerous blackberry cultivars under cultivation, and in this context, the aim of this work was to study how the bioactive compound contents and antioxidant capacity of blackberry jelly were influenced by the cultivars (Guarani, Brazos, Comanche, Tupy, Cherokee, Caingangue and Choctaw). Analysis was made of 7 fresh blackberry cultivars and 7 blackberry jelly formulations. Analysis of antioxidant activity, total phenolics, total anthocyanins and ascorbic acid was performed. It was verified that the contribution of the heat sensitive antioxidants compounds is considerable in all blackberry cultivars, and the degradation of these compounds was significantly different between the different blackberry cultivars. The Brazos and Caingangue cultivars stand out as undergoing the lowest losses in processing, resulting in jellies richer in bioactive compounds and higher antioxidant capacity.