bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role for the banana AGAMOUS‐like gene MaMADS7 in regulation of fruit ripening and quality
Authors: Liu Juhua , Liu Lin , Li Yujia , Jia Caihong , Zhang Jianbin , Miao Hongxia , Hu Wei , Wang Zhuo , Xu Biyu , Jin Zhiqiang
Published: May 2015

MADS‐box transcription factors play important roles in organ development. In plants, most studies on MADS‐box genes have mainly focused on flower development and only a few concerned fruit development and ripening. A new MADS‐box gene named MaMADS7 was isolated from banana fruit by rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE) based on a MADS‐box fragment obtained from a banana suppression subtractive hybridization (SSH) cDNA library. MaMADS7 is an AGAMOUS‐like MADS‐box gene that is preferentially expressed in the ovaries and fruits and in tobacco its protein product localizes to the nucleus. This study found that MaMADS7 expression can be induced by exogenous ethylene. Ectopic expression of MaMADS7 in tomato resulted in broad ripening phenotypes. The expression levels of seven ripening and quality‐related genes, ACO1, ACS2, E4, E8, PG, CNR and PSY1 in MaMADS7 transgenic tomato fruits were greatly increased while the expression of the AG‐like MADS‐box gene TAGL1 was suppressed. Compared with the control, the contents of β‐carotene, lycopene, ascorbic acid and organic acid in transformed tomato fruits were increased, while the contents of glucose and fructose were slightly decreased. MaMADS7 interacted with banana 1‐aminocyclopropane‐1‐carboxylic acid (ACC) oxidase gene 1 (MaACO1) and tomato phytoene synthase gene (LePSY1) promoters. Our results indicated that MaMADS7 plays an important role in initiating endogenous ethylene biosynthesis and fruit ripening.
Exposure to herbivores increases seedling growth and survival of American chestnut (Castanea dentata) through decreased interspecific competition in canopy gaps
Authors: Dalgleish Harmony J. , Lichti Nathanael I. , Schmedding Nicholas , Swihart Robert K.
Published: May 2015

The successful development of early stages of blight‐resistant hybrid stock has increased hopes for restoration of American chestnut (Castanea dentata) to eastern North American forests. However, these forests have undergone substantial ecological change in the century since the functional extirpation of American chestnut, and it remains unknown to what extent American chestnut will be able to recolonize contemporary forests. In particular, high densities of white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) and competition with mesophytic tree species such as maple (Acer) may impede chestnut regeneration, much as they affect oak (Quercus). We used a split‐plot analysis of variance (ANOVA) design to examine the effects of canopy gaps and herbivory on survival and growth of third generation backcrossed (BC3) hybrid chestnut seedlings over two growing seasons in central Indiana, U.S.A. Only 4 of 588 (0.7%) seedlings in closed‐canopy plots survived to the end of the study, as opposed to 264 of 589 (45%) seedlings in gap plots. Within the gap treatment, fencing was associated with reduced chestnut survival as well as reduced herbivory and increased cover of non‐chestnut vegetation. Our results indicate that herbivory may indirectly benefit chestnut regeneration by suppressing competition. However, this beneficial effect is likely context‐dependent and additional work is needed to establish the conditions under which it occurs.
Critical Assessment of the Foundations of Power Transmission and Distribution Reliability Metrics and Standards
Authors: Nateghi Roshanak , Guikema Seth D. , Wu Yue (Grace) , Bruss C. Bayan
Published: May 2015

The U.S. federal government regulates the reliability of bulk power systems, while the reliability of power distribution systems is regulated at a state level. In this article, we review the history of regulating electric service reliability and study the existing reliability metrics, indices, and standards for power transmission and distribution networks. We assess the foundations of the reliability standards and metrics, discuss how they are applied to outages caused by large exogenous disturbances such as natural disasters, and investigate whether the standards adequately internalize the impacts of these events. Our reflections shed light on how existing standards conceptualize reliability, question the basis for treating large‐scale hazard‐induced outages differently from normal daily outages, and discuss whether this conceptualization maps well onto customer expectations. We show that the risk indices for transmission systems used in regulating power system reliability do not adequately capture the risks that transmission systems are prone to, particularly when it comes to low‐probability high‐impact events. We also point out several shortcomings associated with the way in which regulators require utilities to calculate and report distribution system reliability indices. We offer several recommendations for improving the conceptualization of reliability metrics and standards. We conclude that while the approaches taken in reliability standards have made considerable advances in enhancing the reliability of power systems and may be logical from a utility perspective during normal operation, existing standards do not provide a sufficient incentive structure for the utilities to adequately ensure high levels of reliability for end‐users, particularly during large‐scale events.
Development of a District‐Level Programmatic Assessment Tool for Risk of Measles Virus Transmission
Authors: Lam Eugene , Schluter W. William , Masresha Balcha G. , Teleb Nadia , Bravo‐Alcántara Pamela , Shefer Abigail , Jankovic Dragan , McFarland Jeffrey , Elfakki Eltayeb , Takashima Yoshihiro , Perry Robert T. , Dabbagh Alya J. , Banerjee Kaushik , Strebel Peter M. , Goodson James L.
Published: May 2015

All six World Health Organization (WHO) regions have now set goals for measles elimination by or before 2020. To prioritize measles elimination efforts and use available resources efficiently, there is a need to identify at‐risk areas that are offtrack from meeting performance targets and require strengthening of programmatic efforts. This article describes the development of a WHO measles programmatic risk assessment tool to be used for monitoring, guiding, and sustaining measles elimination efforts at the subnational level. We outline the tool development process; the tool specifications and requirements for data inputs; the framework of risk categories, indicators, and scoring; and the risk category assignment. Overall risk was assessed as a function of indicator scores that fall into four main categories: population immunity, surveillance quality, program performance, and threat assessment. On the basis of the overall score, the tool assigns each district a risk of either low, medium, high, or very high. The cut‐off criteria for the risk assignment categories were based on the distribution of scores from all possible combinations of individual indicator cutoffs. The results may be used for advocacy to communicate risk to policymakers, mobilize resources for corrective actions, manage population immunity, and prioritize programmatic activities. Ongoing evaluation of indicators will be needed to evaluate programmatic performance and plan risk mitigation activities effectively. The availability of a comprehensive tool that can identify at‐risk districts will enhance efforts to prioritize resources and implement strategies for achieving the Global Vaccine Action Plan goals for measles elimination.
Measuring the Consistency of Cross‐Sectional and Longitudinal Income Information in EU‐SILC
Authors: Krell Kristina , Frick Joachim R. , Grabka Markus M.
Published: May 2015

The EU‐wide survey “Statistics on Income and Living Conditions” (EU‐SILC) is extremely important for international social science research and policy advice. It is therefore crucial to ensure that the data are of the highest quality and international comparability. This paper is aimed at identifying unexpected developments in income levels, income mobility, and inequality in the EU‐SILC data between 2005 and 2009. We examine the consistency of EU‐SILC by comparing cross‐sectional results with findings based on two‐year longitudinal samples. Although the data represent similar populations, for several countries the results of this comparison differ widely. One important outcome is the high degree of variability over time in countries that obtain their income information from register data. This suggests methodological challenges in the clear designation of new subsample members, in the reweighting of the data, in imputation of missing values, and in other areas.
Nurses' characteristics and organisational factors associated with their assessments of individualised care in care institutions for older people
Authors: Rodríguez‐Martín Beatriz , Stolt Minna , Katajisto Jouko , Suhonen Riitta
Published: May 2015

Rationale

Individualised care is considered a key attribute of the quality in clinical care. Despite the environment in which the care is delivered and the care providers can influence in this concept, perceptions of individuality in the care settings for older people are rarely studied.

Aim

To identify nurses' characteristics and organisational factors associated with nurses' views about the provision of individualised care in care settings for older people.

Study Design

A cross‐sectional multisite survey design.

Methods

A multisite survey of nursing staff (N = 1513, n = 874, response rate 58%) working in 62 different units for older people in southwest Finland was carried out using self‐administered questionnaires (The Individualised Care Scale‐Nurse‐B and a questionnaire gathering socio‐demographic and organisational variables). Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Spearman's correlation coefficients, paired‐sample t‐tests and one‐way analyses of variance.

Results

Participants' perceptions about the level of individualised care provided to older people were generally positive (Mean 3.92, SD 0.56). In this regard, taking into account the patients' clinical situation (Mean 4.31, SD 0.53) and the support of older patients' decisional control (Mean 3.80, SD 0.71) obtained the highest scores. Regarding nurses' socio‐demographic variables, a positive correlation between age and type of organisation with the assessments of individualised care provision was found.

Conclusions

The findings of this study show that nurses' age and the type of organisation where the care is delivered have an impact on the perceptions of individualised care of nurses working in institutions for older people. The participants' assessments about individualised care delivery have practical utility as it may help managers better understand and develop areas that obtained the lowest scores. This information may lead to the reduction of barriers (structures and processes) that hinder individualised care delivery and facilitate programs aimed at developing professional environments that improve the delivery of older people's care.
Creative industries in the tropics: Reflections on creativity and northeastern Australia as place
Authors: Daniel Ryan
Published: May 2015

This paper explores the concept of creativity and place as relevant to Cairns and Townsville in northeastern Australia. These two provincial cities are key to the economic and population growth of northern Australia and as such are the focus of renewed interest from all levels of government. While the creative industries sector in each location is significant, to date there has been no research specifically exploring the views of industry participants in terms of the creative strengths, impediments and opportunities across the region. Interviews with 38 creative industries participants were completed, revealing the significant benefits and challenges associated with being located in a remote tropical environment where the concept of place is strong. The interviews also reveal a number of potential growth strategies for the sector in each location that have the potential to inform policy and urban development approaches not only in the tropical north of Australia but also more broadly across the country. That is, the findings provide further evidence in support of the need for ongoing research into the particular contributions of regional and rural cities to the global creative economy.
Schistosoma mansoni and HIV infection in a Ugandan population with high HIV and helminth prevalence
Authors: Sanya Richard E. , Muhangi Lawrence , Nampijja Margaret , Nannozi Victoria , Nakawungu Prossy Kabuubi , Abayo Elson , Webb Emily L. , Elliott Alison M. ,   the LaVIISWA study team
Published: May 2015

Objectives

Recent reports suggest that Schistosoma infection may increase the risk of acquiring human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). We used data from a large cross‐sectional study to investigate whether Schistosoma mansoni infection is associated with increased HIV prevalence.

Methods

We conducted a household survey of residents in island fishing communities in Mukono district, Uganda, between October 2012 and July 2013. HIV status was assessed using rapid test kits. Kato‐Katz (KK) stool tests and urine‐circulating cathodic antigen (CCA) were used to test for Schistosoma infection. Multivariable logistic regression, allowing for the survey design, was used to investigate the association between S. mansoni infection and HIV infection.

Results

Data from 1412 participants aged 13 years and older were analysed (mean age 30.3 years, 45% female). The prevalence of HIV was 17.3%. Using the stool Kato‐Katz technique on a single sample, S. mansoni infection was detected in 57.2% (719/1257) of participants; urine CCA was positive in 73.8% (478/650) of those tested. S. mansoni infection was not associated with HIV infection. [KK (aOR = 1.04; 95% CI: 0.74–1.47, P = 0.81), CCA (aOR = 1.53; 95% CI: 0.78–3.00, P = 0.19)]. The median S. mansoni egg count per gram was lower in the HIV‐positive participants (P = 0.005).

Conclusions

These results add to the evidence that S. mansoni has little effect on HIV transmission, but may influence egg excretion.
Household coping strategies for delivery and related healthcare cost: findings from rural Bangladesh
Authors: Hoque Mohammad Enamul , Dasgupta Sushil Kanta , Naznin Eva , Al Mamun Abdullah
Published: May 2015

Objectives

This study aims to measure the economic costs of maternal complication and to understand household coping strategies for financing maternal healthcare cost.

Methods

A household survey of the 706 women with maternal complication, of whom 483 had normal delivery, was conducted to collect data at 6 weeks and 6 months post‐partum. Data were collected on socio‐economic information of the household, expenditure during delivery and post‐partum, coping strategies adopted by households and other related information.

Results

Despite the high cost of health care associated with maternal complications, the majority of families were capable of protecting consumption on non‐health items. Around one‐third of households spent more than 20% of their annual household expenditure on maternal health care. Almost 50% were able to avoid catastrophic spending because of the coping strategies that they relied on. In general, households appeared resilient to short‐term economic consequences of maternal health shocks, due to the availability of informal credit, donations from relatives and selling assets. While richer households fund a greater portion of the cost of maternal health care from income and savings, the poorer households with severe maternal complication resorted to borrowing from local moneylenders at high interest, which may leave them vulnerable to financial difficulties.

Conclusion

Financial protection, especially for the poor, may benefit households against economic consequences of maternal complication.
Trends in stroke admissions to a Tanzanian hospital over four decades: a retrospective audit
Authors: Walker Richard W. , Viney Rachel , Green Laura , Mawanswila Manasseh , Maro Venance P. , Gjertsen Charlotte , Godfrey Hannah , Smailes Rosanna , Gray William K.
Published: May 2015

Aims

The aim of this study was to record stroke admissions to a tertiary referral hospital in Tanzania over four decades.

Methods

We audited the medical records held at a large teaching and tertiary referral hospital in northern Tanzania over four decades. We collected records for the years 1974‐1976, 1984‐1986, 1994‐1995 and 2008. All patients admitted as inpatients with a primary diagnosis of stroke were included in the study. Data collected included age, sex, stroke subtype, predominant side of symptoms and survival to discharge.

Results

The number of stroke admissions rose from just four in the three‐year period 1974‐1976 (mean 1.3 cases annually) to 153 cases annually in 2008. The mean age of those admitted rose steadily during this period, as did the proportion of females admitted.

Conclusions

The burden of stroke on health services in Tanzania appears to have increased rapidly. If this increase is to be slowed, then sustainable primary preventative measures to target known stroke risk factors will be required.
Roles and activities of chromatin remodeling ATPases in plants
Authors: Han Soon‐Ki , Wu Miin‐Feng , Cui Sujuan , Wagner Doris
Published: May 2015

Chromatin remodeling ATPases and their associated complexes can alter the accessibility of the genome in the context of chromatin by using energy derived from the hydrolysis of ATP to change the positioning, occupancy and composition of nucleosomes. In animals and plants, these remodelers have been implicated in diverse processes ranging from stem cell maintenance and differentiation to developmental phase transitions and stress responses. Detailed investigation of their roles in individual processes has suggested a higher level of selectivity of chromatin remodeling ATPase activity than previously anticipated, and diverse mechanisms have been uncovered that can contribute to the selectivity. This review summarizes recent advances in understanding the roles and activities of chromatin remodeling ATPases in plants.
Anti‐A and anti‐B titers in donor plasma, plasma pools, and immunoglobulin final products
Authors: McVey John , Baker Don , Parti Rajesh , Berg Roger , Gudino Maria , Teschner Wolfgang
Published: May 2015

BACKGROUND

High‐dose intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) treatments are implicated in hemolytic events in some patients receiving treatment. The passive transfer of IgG anti‐A and anti‐B agglutinin is thought to play a role in the development of these events. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of high‐titer IgG anti‐A and anti‐B in plasma donors and investigate if there is any advantage of excluding these donors from the donor pool to limit anti‐A and anti‐B content in IVIG product.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

IgG anti‐A and anti‐B levels were assessed from group O donor plasma, manufacturing IgG plasma pools, and finished IVIG product (Gammagard Liquid). Antibody level in group O donors was also assessed by sex and age for their relative contribution of antibody to the plasma pool.

RESULTS

The majority of group O donors (80%) had antibody titers of less than 1000. Of those with titers of at least 1000, theoretical estimates provide further evidence that the effects of high‐titer donors are minimal. Antibody levels in plasma pools both during the manufacturing process and from the final IVIG product also support that anti‐A and anti‐B levels are low. In general, there were more females than males with higher antibody titer levels, with significantly more females than males with anti‐A.

CONCLUSION

Excluding donors with high anti‐A and anti‐B titers has minimal impact on the finished IVIG product titers due to ABO antibody neutralization and the dilution factor in the manufacturing pool.
Clinical effect of four different ointment bases on healthy cat eyes
Authors: Eördögh Réka , Schwendenwein Ilse , Tichy Alexander , Loncaric Igor , Nell Barbara
Published: May 2015

Objective

To describe the effects of long‐term treatment with four different eye ointment bases (OBs) in cats.

Animals studied

Ten healthy cats.

Procedures

The study was performed in two periods. Four differentOBs were tested. Hundred grams ofOBcontained the following:OB‐A: 35.17 g liquid paraffin (lp), 64.83 g white petrolatum (wp);OB‐B: 10.03 g lp, 84.95 g wp 5.02 g lanolin;OB‐C: 18.34 g lp, 51.40 g wp, 25.00 mgKH2PO4, 57.00 mg K2HPO4, 18.90 g eucerinum anhydricum, 11.28 g water for injections; andOB‐D: 70 g unguentum lanalcoli, 20 g lp, 10 g aqua conservans. One eye was treated, and the other served as a negative control. Cats received theOBsTIDfor 28 days. The two study periods were separated by a 4‐month washout phase. Samples for conjunctival impression cytology, swabs for bacteriologic and mycologic examination, and cytobrush samples forFHV‐1 andChlamydophila felisPCRdetection were obtained. Both eyes were examined daily. Severity of ocular symptoms was scored using a modified Draize eye irritation test. A total of five eyes were treated withOB‐A, five withOB‐B, four withOB‐C, and five withOB‐D.

Results

Treated eyes had significantly higher clinical scores. Eyes receivingOB‐A had the highest overall clinical score. The results of bacteriologic and mycologic examination concur with the previously published data. All samples tested were negative forFHV‐1 andChlamydophila felis. There was no significant difference between treated and control eyes upon cytological examination.

Conclusion

The application ofOBs resulted in clinical symptoms in treated eyes. The long‐term use of ointments is not well tolerated in cats and may lead to ocular irritation.
A single bout of whole‐leg, peristaltic pulse external pneumatic compression upregulates PGC‐1α mRNA and endothelial nitric oxide sythase protein in human skeletal muscle tissue
Authors: Kephart Wesley C. , Mobley C. Brooks , Fox Carlton D. , Pascoe David D. , Sefton JoEllen M. , Wilson Trent J. , Goodlett Michael D. , Kavazis Andreas N. , Roberts Michael D. , Martin Jeffrey S.
Published: May 2015

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Does 60 min of peristaltic pulse external pneumatic compression (EPC) alter gene and protein expression patterns related to metabolism, vascular biology, redox balance and inflammation in vastus lateralis biopsy samples?

What is the main finding and its importance?

A single bout of EPC transiently upregulates PGC‐1α mRNA, while also upregulating endothelial nitric oxide synthase protein and nitric oxide metabolite concentrations in vastus lateralis biopsy samples.

We investigated whether a single 60 min bout of whole‐leg, lower pressure external pneumatic compression (EPC) altered select vascular, metabolic, antioxidant and inflammation‐related mRNAs. Ten participants (eight male, two female; aged 22.0 ± 0.4 years) reported to the laboratory 4 h postprandial, and vastus lateralis muscle biopsies were obtained before (PRE) and 1 and 4 h after EPC treatment. Messenger RNA expression was analysed using real‐time RT‐PCR, and significant mRNA findings were investigated further by Western blot analysis of respective protein concentrations. Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ coactivator‐1α (PGC‐1α) mRNA increased by 77% 1 h following EPC compared with PRE levels (P = 0.005), but no change in protein concentration 1 or 4 h post‐EPC was observed. Increases in endothelial nitric oxide sythase (eNOS) mRNA (+44%) and superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) mRNA (+57%) 1 h post‐EPC as well as an increase in interleukin‐10 mRNA (+132%) 4 h post‐EPC compared with PRE levels were observed, but only approached significance (P = 0.076, 0.077 and 0.074, respectively). Interestingly, eNOS protein (+40%, P = 0.025) and nitrate and nitrite (NOx) concentrations (+69%, P = 0.025) increased 1–4 h post‐EPC. Moreover, SOD2 protein tended to increase from PRE to 4 h post‐EPC (+43%, P = 0.074), although no changes in tissue 4‐hydroxnonenal levels was observed. An acute bout of EPC transiently upregulates PGC‐1α mRNA, while also upregulating eNOS protein and NOx concentrations in vastus lateralis biopsy samples. Future research should characterize the origin of these responses (e.g. vascular or muscle fibre cells) and how the acute effects of EPC application on gene and protein expression observed herein are associated with functional improvements (e.g. metabolism, vascular function) in acute and chronic models.
Bending of a Cosserat Elastic Bar of Square Cross Section: Theory and Experiment
Authors: Lakes Roderic , Drugan W. J.
Published: May 2015

Pure bending experiments on prismatic bars of square cross section composed of reticulated polymer foam exhibit deformation behavior not captured by classical elasticity theory. Perhaps the clearest example of this is the observed sigmoidal deformation of the bars' lateral surfaces, which are predicted by classical elasticity theory to tilt but remain planar upon pure moment application. Such foams have a non-negligible length scale compared to the bars' cross-sectional dimensions, whereas classical elasticity theory contains no inherent length scale. All these facts raise the intriguing question: is there a richer, physically sensible, yet still continuum and relatively simple elasticity theory capable of modeling the observed phenomenon in these materials? This paper reports our exploration of the hypothesis that Cosserat elasticity can. We employ the principle of minimum potential energy for homogeneous isotropic Cosserat linear elastic material in which the microrotation vector is taken to be independent of the macrorotation vector (as prior experiments indicate that it should be in general to model such materials) to obtain an approximate three-dimensional solution to pure bending of a prismatic bar having a square cross section. We show that this solution, and hence Cosserat elasticity, captures the experimentally observed nonclassical deformation feature, both qualitatively and quantitatively, for reasonable values of the Cosserat moduli. A further interesting conclusion is that a single experiment—the pure bending one—suffices to reveal directly, via the observation of surface deformation, the presence of nonclassical elastic effects describable by Cosserat elasticity.
Numerical Investigation of the Spear Valve Configuration on the Performance of Pelton and Turgo Turbine Injectors and Runners
Authors: Benzon D. , Židonis A. , Panagiotopoulos A. , Aggidis G. A. , Anagnostopoulos J. S. , Papantonis D. E.
Published: May 2015

This paper uses two modern commercial cfd software packages to compare the performance of a standard and improved impulse turbine injector developed in a previous study. The two injector designs are compared by simulating the two-dimensional (2D) axis-symmetric cases as well as full three-dimensional (3D) cases including the bend in the branch pipe and the guide vanes. The resulting jet profiles generated by these simulations are used to initialize the inlet conditions for a full Pelton and Turgo runner simulation at different operating conditions in order to assess the impact of the injector design on the performance and efficiency of a real impulse turbine. The results showed that the optimized injector design, with steeper nozzle and spear angles, not only attains higher efficiencies in the 2D and 3D injector simulations but also produces a jet which performs better than the standard design in both the Pelton and the Turgo runner simulations. The results show that the greatest improvement in the hydraulic efficiency occurs within the injector with the improved design, showing an increase in efficiency of 0.76% for the Turgo 3D injector and 0.44% for the Pelton 3D injector. The results also show that in the case of the 3D injector, the improved injector geometry produces a jet profile which induces better overall runner performance, giving a 0.5% increase in total hydraulic efficiency for the Pelton case and 0.7% for the Turgo case.
A Methodology for Optimal Design of a Vehicle Suspension System With Energy Regeneration Capability
Authors: Huang Bo , Hsieh Chen-Yu , Golnaraghi Farid , Moallem Mehrdad
Published: May 2015

This paper proposes a systematic methodology for predicting and optimizing the performance of an energy regenerative suspension system to efficiently capture the vibratory energy induced by the road irregularities. The method provides a graphical design guideline for the selection of stiffness and damping coefficients aimed at either best ride comfort or maximum energy harvesting. To achieve energy regeneration capability, a low-power electronic circuit capable of providing a variable load resistance is developed and fabricated. The circuit is controlled to provide an adjustable damping coefficient in the real-time. A test-bed is utilized to experimentally verify the proposed techniques. The results indicate that the analytical and simulation results concerning the optimal values for dynamic control and power regeneration match the experimental results.
Macroscale superlubricity enabled by graphene nanoscroll formation
Authors: Berman Diana , Deshmukh Sanket A. , Sankaranarayanan Subramanian K. R. S. , Erdemir Ali , Sumant Anirudha V.
Published: May 2015

Slip sliding away

Many applications would benefit from ultralow friction conditions to minimize wear on the moving parts such as in hard drives or engines. On the very small scale, ultralow friction has been observed with graphite as a lubricant. Berman
et al.
achieved superlubricity using graphene in combination with crystalline diamond nanoparticles and diamondlike carbon (see the Perspective by Hone and Carpick). Simulations showed that sliding of the graphene patches around the tiny nanodiamond particles led to nanoscrolls with reduced contact area that slide easily against the amorphous diamondlike carbon surface.

Science
, this issue p.
1118
; see also p.
1087
C9ORF72
repeat expansions in mice cause TDP-43 pathology, neuronal loss, and behavioral deficits
Authors: Chew Jeannie , Gendron Tania F. , Prudencio Mercedes , Sasaguri Hiroki , Zhang Yong-Jie , Castanedes-Casey Monica , Lee Chris W. , Jansen-West Karen , Kurti Aishe , Murray Melissa E. , Bieniek Kevin F. , Bauer Peter O. , Whitelaw Ena C. , Rousseau Linda , Stankowski Jeannette N. , Stetler Caroline , Daughrity Lillian M. , Perkerson Emilie A. , Desaro Pamela , Johnston Amelia , Overstreet Karen , Edbauer Dieter , Rademakers Rosa , Boylan Kevin B. , Dickson Dennis W. , Fryer John D. , Petrucelli Leonard
Published: May 2015

A mouse model for ALS

A G4C2 repeat expansion in C9ORF72 is known to be the major genetic cause of frontotemporal dementia and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (c9FTD/ALS). However, a lack of animal models recapitulating key disease features has hindered efforts to understand and prevent c9FTD/ALS-related neurodegeneration. Until now. Chew
et al.
describe a mouse model that mimics both neuropathological and clinical phenotypes of c9FTD/ALS.

Science
, this issue p.
1151
Draft Genome Sequence of Pantoea anthophila Strain 11-2 from Hypersaline Lake Laysan, Hawaii
Authors: Wan Xuehua , Hou Shaobin , Phan Nolwenn , Malone Moss Jennifer S. , Donachie Stuart P. , Alam Maqsudul
Published: May 2015

Most
Pantoea
spp. have been isolated from plant sources or clinical samples. However, we cultivated
Pantoea anthophila
11-2 from hypersaline water from the lake on Laysan, Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Draft genome sequencing of 11-2 provides a molecular basis for studies in evolution and pathogenicity in
Pantoea
spp.
Genome Sequences of 11 Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli Strains
Authors: Gabrielsen C. , Drabløs F. , Afset J. E.
Published: May 2015

Shiga toxin-producing
Escherichia coli
(STEC) strains are a common cause of both sporadic infection and outbreaks of enteric disease in humans. Here, we present draft genome sequences of 11 STEC strains of different serotypes (O145, O121, O26, O177, and O-type unknown), that have been isolated from patients with enteric disease of various degrees of severity, in the years 2001 to 2014 at St. Olavs Hospital in Trondheim, Norway.
Draft Genome Sequence of Phenylobacterium immobile Strain E (DSM 1986), Isolated from Uncontaminated Soil in Ecuador
Authors: Reznicek Ondrej , Luesken Francisca , Facey Sandra J. , Hauer Bernhard
Published: May 2015

We report the draft genome sequence of 3.3 Mb and the sequence (19.2 kb) of a natural plasmid isolated from
Phenylobacterium immobile
strain E (DSM 1986), able to degrade xenobiotic compounds as the sole carbon source. The sequences reveal a large number of novel Rieske nonheme iron aromatic ring-hydroxylating oxygenases (RHOs).
Draft Genome Sequences of Four NDM-1-Producing Klebsiella pneumoniae Strains from a Health Care Facility in Northern California
Authors: Greninger Alexander L. , Chorny Ilya , Knowles Susan , Ng Valerie L. , Chaturvedi Vishnu
Published: May 2015

We report the draft genome sequences of
Klebsiella pneumoniae
strains from four patients at a northern California health care facility. All strains contained the New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase (NDM1) carbapenemase with extended antibiotic resistance, including resistance to expanded-spectrum cephalosporins, imipenem, ertapenem, and meropenem. NDM gene alignments revealed that the resistance was plasmid encoded.
Draft Whole-Genome Sequence of Lactobacillus fermentum LfQi6, Derived from the Human Microbiome
Authors: Subhadra Bobban , Krier Jill , Hofstee Karina , Monsul Nicholas , Berkes Eva
Published: May 2015

We report a 2.21-Mbp draft whole-genome sequence of
Lactobacillus fermentum
Qi6 (LfQi6). This strain demonstrates activity against pathogenic biofilms, enhances the skin barrier, and upregulates innate immune defenses. The genome sequence information of this strain will help to identify molecules that hold promise for the discovery of novel therapeutics for dermatological disorders.
Draft Genome Sequence of Erythrobacter vulgaris Strain O1, a Glycosyl Hydrolase-Producing Bacterium
Authors: Yaakop Amira Suriaty , Chan Chia Sing , Kahar Ummirul Mukminin , Ee Robson , Chan Kok-Gan , Goh Kian Mau
Published: May 2015

Erythrobacter vulgaris
strain O1, a moderate halophile, was isolated from a beach in Johor, Malaysia. Here, we present the draft genome and suggest potential applications of this bacterium.
Complete Genome Assemblies for Two Single-Chromosome Vibrio cholerae Isolates, Strains 1154-74 (Serogroup O49) and 10432-62 (Serogroup O27)
Authors: Johnson S. L. , Khiani A. , Bishop-Lilly K. A. , Chapman C. , Patel M. , Verratti K. , Teshima H. , Munk A. C. , Bruce D. C. , Han C. S. , Xie G. , Davenport K. W. , Chain P. , Sozhamannan S.
Published: May 2015

Here, we report the completed genome sequences for two non-O1/non-O139
Vibrio cholerae
isolates. Each isolate has only a single chromosome, as opposed to the normal paradigm of two chromosomes found in all other
V. cholerae
isolates.
Draft Genome Sequence of Oleiagrimonas soli 3.5X
T
, a Type Species in a Newly Identified Genus, Isolated from an Oil Field in China
Authors: Huang Yong , Fang Tingting , Wang Hui , Zhou Haiyan
Published: May 2015

Oleiagrimonas gudaosoli
3.5X
T
was isolated from an oil field and identified as a new member of a novel genus. The draft genome sequence of this strain, which comprises 3,379,958 bp encoding 3,010 open reading frames (ORFs), can provide insight into the life style of this newly identified genus in petroleum-contaminated soil.
Draft Genome Sequence of
Anaeromyxobacter
sp. Strain PSR-1, an Arsenate-Respiring Bacterium Isolated from Arsenic-Contaminated Soil
Authors: Tonomura Mimori , Ehara Ayaka , Suzuki Haruo , Amachi Seigo
Published: May 2015

Here, we report a draft genome sequence of
Anaeromyxobacter
sp. strain PSR-1, an arsenate-respiring bacterium isolated from arsenic-contaminated soil. It contained three distinct arsenic resistance gene clusters (
ars
operons), while no respiratory arsenate reductase gene (
arr
) was identified.
Draft Genome Sequence of Pseudomonas abietaniphila KF701 (NBRC110664), a Polychlorinated Biphenyl-Degrading Bacterium Isolated from Biphenyl-Contaminated Soil
Authors: Fujihara Hidehiko , Yamazoe Atsushi , Hosoyama Akira , Suenaga Hikaru , Kimura Nobutada , Hirose Jun , Watanabe Takahito , Futagami Taiki , Goto Masatoshi , Furukawa Kensuke
Published: May 2015

Pseudomonas abietaniphila
KF701 utilizes biphenyl as a sole source of carbon and degrades polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Here, we report the 6,886,250-bp draft genome sequence of KF701, which contains 6,315 coding sequences and 59.4 mol% G+C content. The strain possesses genes for biphenyl catabolism and other genes that mediate the degradation of benzoate, salicylate, and phenol.
Draft Genome Sequence of Lactobacillus rhamnosus CLS17
Authors: Kozhakhmetov Samat S. , Kushugulova Almagul R. , Saduakhasova Saule A. , Shakhabayeva Gulnara S. , Khassenbekova Zhanagul R. , Molkenov Askhat B. , Kairov Ulykbek E. , Issayeva Raushan B. , Nurgozhin Talgat S. , Zhumadilov Zhaxybay S.
Published: May 2015

We announce the draft genome sequence of the type strain
Lactobacillus rhamnosus
CLS17 (2,889,314 nt, with a GC content of 46.8%), which is one of the most prevalent lactic acid bacteria present during the manufacturing process of dairy products; the genome consists of 71 large contigs (>100 bp in size). It contains 2,643 protein-coding sequences, single predicted copies of the 5S, 16S, and 23S rRNA genes, and 51 predicted tRNAs.
Complete Genome Sequence of Scardovia inopinata JCM 12537
T
, Isolated from Human Dental Caries
Authors: Oshima Kenshiro , Hayashi Jun-ichiro , Toh Hidehiro , Nakano Akiyo , Omori Emi , Hattori Yasue , Morita Hidetoshi , Honda Kenya , Hattori Masahira
Published: May 2015

Scardovia inopinata
JCM 12537
T
was isolated from human dental caries. Here, we report the complete genome sequence of this organism. This paper is the first report to demonstrate the fully sequenced and completely annotated genome of an
S. inopinata
strain.
Sphingomonas taxi
, Isolated from
Cucurbita pepo
, Proves to Be a DDE-Degrading and Plant Growth-Promoting Strain
Authors: Eevers Nele , Van Hamme Jonathan D. , Bottos Eric M. , Weyens Nele , Vangronsveld Jaco
Published: May 2015

The draft genome of
Sphingomonas taxi
, a strain of the
Sphingomonadaceae
isolated from
Cucurbita pepo
root tissue, is presented. This Gram-negative bacterium shows 2,2-bis(
p
-chlorophenyl)-1,1-dichloroethylene (DDE)-degrading potential and plant growth-promoting capacities. An analysis of its 3.9-Mb draft genome will enhance the understanding of DDE-degradation pathways and phytoremediation applications for DDE-contaminated soils.
Drug use in French children: a population-based study
Authors: Bénard-Laribière Anne , Jové Jérémy , Lassalle Régis , Robinson Philip , Droz-Perroteau Cécile , Noize Pernelle
Published: May 2015

Background and objective

To provide an overview of drug use in outpatient children in France, a population-based study using a national reimbursement claims database representative of 90% of the French population was conducted.

Design

Cross-sectional study performed between January and December 2011 using the EGB database (Echantillon Généraliste de Bénéficiaires), a 1/97th sample of the national healthcare insurance system beneficiaries. Drug use in children <18 years old was estimated through reimbursements for prescribed drugs excluding vaccines. Prevalences of use were calculated for different levels of the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical classification by considering as users children who had at least one reimbursement during the study period.

Results

In 2011, 133 800 children were included in the study. The overall prevalence of drug use was 84% and the median number of different drugs per child was 5. Drug use was greatest in children aged <2 years. The most widely used drugs were paracetamol, systemic anti-infectives, nasal corticosteroids and decongestants, and anti-histamines. 21% children <2 years received domperidone.

Conclusions

There is widespread use of medicines that are unlikely to be effective and may have significant toxicity in French children. Irrational use of medicines appears to be greatest in children aged 5 years and under.
A lotus root-like appearance in carotid stenosis on optical coherence tomography
Authors: Chang Hyukwon , Yoon Hyuck Jun , Hong Jeong-Ho , Kim Chang-Hyun , Sohn Sung-il , Lee Chang-Young
Published: May 2015

An 82-year-old man visited the outpatient clinic of our stroke centre because of dizziness. He had a previous history of stroke without definite sequelae. Severe stenosis in the left proximal internal carotid artery (ICA) was seen on Doppler sonography. Conventional angiography revealed focal severe stenosis with ‘string sign’ in the left proximal ICA and delayed distal run off. Optical coherence tomography showed multiple channels surrounding a narrowed central lumen (lotus root-like appearance). Carotid stent placement with a protection device was done without complications. The patient was discharged in good condition 5 days after the procedure.
Time-varying impact of comorbidities on mortality after liver transplantation: a national cohort study using linked clinical and administrative data
Authors: Tovikkai Chutwichai , Charman Susan C , Praseedom Raaj K , Gimson Alexander E , van der Meulen Jan
Published: May 2015

Objective

We assessed the impact of comorbidity on mortality in three periods after liver transplantation (first 90 days, 90 days–5 years and 5–10 years).

Design

Prospective cohort study using records from the UK Liver Transplant Audit (UKLTA) linked to Hospital Episode Statistics (HES), an administrative database of hospital admissions in the English National Health Service (NHS). Comorbidities relevant for liver transplantation were identified from the 10th revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) codes in HES records of admissions in the year preceding their operation. Multivariable Cox regression was used to estimate HRs for three different time periods after liver transplantation.

Setting

All liver transplant centres in the NHS hospitals in England.

Participants

Adults who received a first elective liver transplant between April 1997 and March 2010 in the linked UKLTA-HES database.

Outcomes

Patient mortality in three different time periods after transplantation.

Results

Among 3837 recipients, 45.1% had comorbidities. Recipients with cardiovascular disease had statistically significantly higher mortality in all three periods after transplantation (first 90 days: HR=2.0; 95% CI 1.4 to 2.9, 90 days–5 years: 1.6; 1.2 to 2.2, beyond 5 years: 2.8; 1.7 to 4.4). Prior congestive cardiac failure (3.2; 2.1 to 4.9) significantly increased mortality only in the first 90 days. History of non-hepatic malignancy appeared to increase risk over all periods, but significantly only in the first 90 days (1.9; 1.0 to 3.6). A diagnosis of connective tissue disease, dementia, diabetes, chronic pulmonary and renal disease did not have a significant impact on mortality in any period.

Conclusions

The impact of comorbidities present at the time of transplantation changes with time after transplantation. Renal disease, pulmonary disease and diabetes had no impact on mortality in contrast to previous reports.
Hyaluronan for knee osteoarthritis: an updated meta-analysis of trials with low risk of bias
Authors: Richette Pascal , Chevalier Xavier , Ea Hang Korng , Eymard Florent , Henrotin Yves , Ornetti Paul , Sellam Jérémie , Cucherat Michel , Marty Marc
Published: May 2015

Background

The effectiveness of intra-articular hyaluronic acid (IAHA) injection for knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is debated.

Objectives

To evaluate the effect of IAHA for patients with KOA by analysing data from trials of IAHA versus placebo with low risk of bias, to provide the highest level of evidence.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) with a low risk of bias (adequate randomisation and concealment and double-blind design) that investigated IAHA versus placebo (saline solution) injection were eligible. The primary efficacy measure was pain intensity and secondary outcome function at 3 months. The treatment effect was summarised with the standardised mean difference (SMD) calculated from differences in means of pain and function measures between treatment and control groups at 3 months. Trials were pooled by a random-effects model with DerSimonian and Laird weights. Statistical heterogeneity was explored by a visual exploration of forest plots and the I2statistic.

Results

A total of eight RCTs (2 199 randomised patients) met our inclusion criteria. IAHA significantly reduced the pain intensity (SMD=−0.21, 95% CI (95% CI) −0.32 to −0.10) and improved function (SMD=−0.12, 95% CI −0.22 to −0.02). Trials showed no heterogeneity.

Conclusions

This meta-analysis of high-quality trials of IAHA versus placebo shows that IAHA provides a moderate but real benefit for patients with KOA.
Effect of moderate exercise on peritoneal neutrophils from juvenile rats
Authors: Braz Glauber Ruda , Ferreira Diorginis Soares , Pedroza Anderson Apolonio , da Silva Aline Isabel , Sousa Shirley Maria , Pithon-Curi Tania Cristina , Lagranha Claudia
Published: May 2015

Previous studies showed that moderate exercise in adult rats enhances neutrophil function, although no studies were performed in juvenile rats. We evaluated the effects of moderate exercise on the neutrophil function in juvenile rats. Viability and neutrophils function were evaluated. Moderate exercise did not impair the viability and mitochondrial transmembrane potential of neutrophils, whereas there was greater reactive oxygen species production (164%; p < 0.001) and phagocytic capacity (29%; p < 0.05). Our results suggest that moderate exercise in juvenile rats improves neutrophil function, similar to adults.
Effect of support characteristics on the earth pressure in a jointed rock mass
Authors: Son Moorak , Adedokun Solomon
Published: May 2015

This study examines the magnitude and distribution of earth pressures against a support system in a jointed rock mass according to the support characteristics (strut stiffness and spacing), different rock types, and joint conditions (joint shear strength and joint inclination angle). A series of numerical parametric analyses were performed after verifying the numerical approach through a physical model test. These analyses were based on the discrete element method, which can take into account the joint characteristics of the rock strata and the interactions between the ground and the retaining structure. The results were compared with Peck’s earth pressure for soil ground, which showed that the magnitude and distribution of earth pressure are strongly affected by the support characteristics, rock types, and joint conditions, and that the earth pressure in the rock stratum can be significantly different from that in the soil ground. The results suggest that the support characteristics, including the rock types and joint conditions, are important factors affecting the earth pressure, and should be considered for the safe and economic design and construction of retaining structures in a jointed rock mass.
Radion effects on γγ scattering
Authors: Trang Trieu Quynh , Bang Ha Huy
Published: May 2015

In this paper, we investigate the effects of the radion on [Formula: see text] processes. From these, we point out a few remarkable properties of this process at high energy, which should allow one to search for effects of radion interactions. Interestingly, the cross-section with radion effect should be about 1020 times larger than the one without radion effects.