bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterisation of Lactobacilli from eweÊ¼s and goatÊ¼s milk for their further processing re-utilisation
Authors: Kološta Miroslav , Slottová Anna , Drončovský Maroš , Klapáčová Lýdia , Kmeť Vladimí­r , Bujňáková Dobroslava , Lauková Andrea , Greif Gabriel , Greifová Maria , Tomáška Martin
Published: May 2014

Raw ewe's and goat's milk is a good source for isolation of wild lactobacilli which are able to bring unique processing properties in development of dairy products - cheeses or fermented dairy products. 34 strains of lactobacilli were isolated, purified and identified from fermented ewe's and goat's dairy products. These products were processed without thermal treatment and without using of any commercial starters. After preliminary selection, the final collection of 5 strains was established. The strains were identified as: Lbc. plantarum (2), Lbc. paraplantarum (1), Lbc. paracasei (1) and Lbc. johnsonii (1). Except two strains, all were able to coagulate milk. After hydrolysis of lactose in milk, two strains were able to form sensorial attractive coagulate too. All of the strains were homofermentative, they produced lactic acid but they did not produce CO2. Their ability to produce diacetyl was low. They did not show strong proteolytic activity. All strains grew at 30 °C and 37 °C, however Lbc. johnsonii much slower at 30 °C than the others. Except Lbc. johnsonii, all strains tolerated 2% concentration of NaCl and even in presence of 5% concentration of NaCl their growth was inhibited only moderately. All of characterized strains can be provisionally used as starter or starter adjuncts in dairy technology, during production of cheeses or fermented milk products from pasteurised milk. These results will be used in further processing studies of isolated strains and will be supplemented with other properties e.g. safety, probiotic and antimicrobial properties.
Sensory quality, colour and oxidative stability of cured cooked ham with propolis extract
Authors: Kročko Miroslav , Bobko Marek , Bučko Ondřej , Čanigová Margita , Ducková Viera
Published: May 2014

The effect of 0.06% propolis ethanol extract on the sensory quality, colour and oxidative stability of cured cooked ham was evaluated. Half of the experimentally processed hams treated with 0.06% ethanolic extract of propolis with ascorbic acid (EEP), only with ascorbic acid (AA) and control samples (C) were sliced and vacuum packaged. Samples were kept at 4 °C 21 days (sliced) respectively 20, 50 and 100 days (unsliced). The results revealed that all samples were characterized without any significant colour discrepancies. In general, the thiobarbituric acid value (mg malondialdehyde/kg) increased gradually in all samples examined, with a significantly lower (P <0.05) level for treated samples than for controls. The significantly lowest (P <0.05) sensory parameters in comparison to unsliced hams were observed in sliced hams packaged in vacuum. Sliced hams with EEP were characterized with significantly lowest (P <0.05) intensity of characteristic aroma. Undesirable taste was detected in control sliced hams after storage period. Significantly (P <0.05) more desirable taste of sliced hams was observed in those with only ascorbic acid in comparison with EEP. In our study was demonstrated that 0.06% ethanol extract of propolis positive affected oxidation stability and not negative affected others technological (pH, colour) and sensory characteristics of poultry meat product - cured cooked ham.
Analysis of Corn Distillers Dried Grains With Solubles (DDGS) / Flour Mixtures, and Subsequent Bread Baking Trials
Authors: Saunders J. A. , Rosentrater Kurt A. , Krishnan P. G.
Published: May 2014

Grains offer a variety of nutrients; it is thought that through the addition of distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) the fiber and protein in baked products may be improved. In this study, all-purpose flour and bread flour were tested with various DDGS substitution levels (0%, 25%, or 50% flour substitution) with the dough conditioner sodium stearoyl lactylate (SSL) (0%, 0.15%, or 0.3% flour weight basis). SSL is surfactant produced from reacting stearic acid with food grade lactic acid in the presence of sodium. Overall, as the substitution level of DDGS increased, so did protein, moisture, ash, and Hunter-a values. Peak height, side height, width, and length of baked loaves decreased as DDGS quantity increased, however. Baked bread containing SSL had enhanced quality, with increasing dough strength, rate of hydration, mixing tolerance, crumb strength, loaf volume, and shelf life. Overall, 25-50% DDGS substitution appeared to have a negative effect on physical features despite the fact that the nutrient content was enhanced. Less than 25% DDGS had minimal negative effects on bread properties.
Functional Outcome After Anal Sphincter Injury and Treatment With Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Salcedo Levilester , Penn Marc , Damaser Margot , Balog Brian , Zutshi Massarat
Published: May 2014

This research demonstrates the regenerative effects of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) on the injured anal sphincter by comparing anal sphincter pressures following intramuscular and serial intravascular MSC infusion in a rat model of anal sphincter injury. Fifty rats were divided into injury (n = 35) and no injury (NI; n = 15) groups. Each group was further divided into i.m., serial i.v., or no-treatment (n = 5) groups and followed for 5 weeks. The injury consisted of an excision of 25% of the anal sphincter complex. Twenty-four hours after injury, 5 × 105 green fluorescent protein-labeled MSCs in 0.2 ml of phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) or PBS alone (sham) were injected into the anal sphincter for i.m. treatment; i.v. and sham i.v. treatments were delivered daily for 6 consecutive days via the tail vein. Anal pressures were recorded before injury and 10 days and 5 weeks after treatment. Ten days after i.m. MSC treatment, resting and peak pressures were significantly increased compared with those in sham i.m. treatment (p < .001). When compared with the NI group, the injury groups had anal pressures that were not significantly different 5 weeks after i.m./i.v. treatment. Both resting and peak pressures were also significantly increased after i.m./i.v. MSC treatment compared with treatment with PBS (p < .001), suggesting recovery. Statistical analysis was done using paired t test with Bonferroni correction. Marked decrease in fibrosis and scar tissue was seen in both MSC-treated groups. Both i.m. and i.v. MSC treatment after injury caused an increase in anal pressures sustained at 5 weeks, although fewer cells were injected i.m. The MSC-treated groups showed less scarring than the PBS-treated groups, with the i.v. infusion group showing the least scarring.
Amniotic Fluid-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Prevent Fibrosis and Preserve Renal Function in a Preclinical Porcine Model of Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Baulier Edouard , Favreau Frederic , Le Corf Amélie , Jayle Christophe , Schneider Fabrice , Goujon Jean-Michel , Feraud Olivier , Bennaceur-Griscelli Annelise , Hauet Thierry , Turhan Ali G.
Published: May 2014

It is well known that ischemia/reperfusion injuries strongly affect the success of human organ transplantation. Development of interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy is the main deleterious phenomenon involved. Stem cells are a promising therapeutic tool already validated in various ischemic diseases. Amniotic fluid-derived mesenchymal stem cells (af-MSCs), a subpopulation of multipotent cells identified in amniotic fluid, are known to secrete growth factors and anti-inflammatory cytokines. In addition, these cells are easy to collect, present higher proliferation and self-renewal rates compared with other adult stem cells (ASCs), and are suitable for banking. Consequently, af-MSCs represent a promising source of stem cells for regenerative therapies in humans. To determine the efficiency and the safety of af-MSC infusion in a preclinical porcine model of renal autotransplantation, we injected autologous af-MSCs in the renal artery 6 days after transplantation. The af-MSC injection improved glomerular and tubular functions, leading to full renal function recovery and abrogated fibrosis development at 3 months. The strong proof of concept generated by this translational porcine model is a first step toward evaluation of af-MSC-based therapies in human kidney transplantation.
Quantified Observations of Sensory Processing (QOSP): Resource Tool for Screening Sensory Processing Difficulties in Preschoolers
Authors: Kadkol Moushami S.
Published: May 2014

Sensory Processing (SP) difficulties in children are seen to be increasing in today’s world. Quite a few typically developing children are reported to have difficulties in coping with school, home and play environments. Their difficulties are mostly labeled abnormal behaviors and with superficial assessments these children often receive traditional treatments that marginally decrease their problems without giving long term functional gains. Hence their SP dysfunctions make them adopt pathological behaviors as they grow, making them incompetent as compared to their peers.
One of the factors behind these children getting unnoticed at an early age is lack of awareness about SP difficulties among the parents, teachers and medical fraternity in India. The other important factors include unavailability of contributory study in this area done on the Indian population and the use of non-normated, generalized evaluation tools done for evaluation of these difficulties. Further less information on what is age related typical SP makes it trickier to differentiate between a typical behavior and SP difficulty. The present study is the first study that would make an effort to understand the age related SP in Indian preschoolers aged 3-7 years.
The QOSP includes observations based on literature and theoretical constructs of SP which are graded and made quantitative for ease of administration and interpretation. This study intends to establish the age appropriate expected response and estimate the children posing risk to develop SP dysfunctions. The study further attempts to understand correlations between the different parameters of QOSP and tries to identify those parameters that can be considered red flags for SP difficulties.
The results of the study suggest about 3% of children in the typically developing group to be at the risk of having SP difficulties. About 20% are estimated to be having difficulties in at least one of the SP areas when compared with behaviors rated on Sensory Processing Measure. Apart from typically developing children the tool was also used in co-morbid conditions and was found to be useful in understanding the underlying Sensory Processing difficulties. Thus the QOSP can be considered a good measure not only in screening children with suspected sensory processing difficulties but also to gear the intervention program to be streamlined and goal oriented.
Rural Public Libraries and Digital Inclusion: Issues and Challenges
Authors: Real Brian , Bertot John Carlo , Jaeger Paul T.
Published: May 2014

Rural public libraries have been relatively understudied when compared to public libraries as a whole. Data are available to show that rural libraries lag behind their urban and suburban counterparts in technology service offerings, but the full meaning and impact of such disparities is unclear. The authors combine data from the Public Library Technology and Access Study with data from smaller studies to provide greater insight to these issues. By filtering these data through the Digital Inclusion framework, it becomes clear that disparities between rural and non-rural libraries are not merely a problem of weaker technological infrastructure. Instead, rural libraries cannot reach their full customer service potential because of lower staffing (but not lower staff dedication) and funding mechanisms that rely primarily on local monies. The authors suggest possible solutions to these disparities, while also discussing the barriers that must be overcome before such solutions can be implemented.
Treinamento resistido para crianças e adolescentes
Authors: Benedet Jucemar , Freddi Juliana Carla , Luciano Alexandre Paiva , Almeida Fernando De Souza , Silva Gilvan Lira da , Hinnig Patrícia De Fragas , Adami Fernando
Published: May 2014

Em uma sociedade onde a aparência corporal é muito valorizada, as academias de musculação são procuradas de forma cada vez mais precoce pelos jovens. O objetivo deste estudo foi fazer uma análise retrospectiva sobre a evolução das recomendações do treinamento resistido para crianças e adolescentes. A busca bibliográfica foi realizada nas bases de dados PubMed, Web of Science e Scielo. As estratégias de busca incluíram a combinação dos seguintes descritores: “resistance training”, “strength training”, “weight-training” “adolescents”, “children” e “youth”. A busca bibliográfica resultou em 349 artigos. A leitura e análise dos resumos pelos autores resultou na seleção de 25 artigos, respeitando os critérios de inclusão adotados. Os resultados indicam que as primeiras publicações sobre o tema ocorreram em 1990 e, a partir de então, observou-se uma evolução substancial tanto no número de publicações quanto nas abordagens do treinamento resistido para crianças e adolescentes. A análise dos artigos mostra que atualmente é possível encontrar informações qualificadas cujos indicativos suportam a prática do treinamento resistido por parte de crianças e adolescentes de forma segura e eficaz. Pode-se concluir que não restam dúvidas sobre os benefícios do treinamento resistido para a saúde dos jovens, respeitadas as recomendações vigentes as quais são pontuadas ao longo desta revisão. Convém destacar que permanecem latentes questões associadas às respostas crônicas do treinamento resistido nesta faixa etária, assim como dúvidas em relação à prescrição para as diferentes idades, ergonomia dos equipamentos e ambientes.
Comparing the efficacy of efavirenz and boosted lopinavir using viremia copy‐years
Authors: Lima Viviane D , Sierra‐Madero Juan , Wu Zunyou , Singer Joel , Wood Evan , Hull Mark W , Harrigan Paul Richard , Montaner Julio SG
Published: May 2014

Introduction

HIV‐1 plasma viral load during treatment can be highly variable. Thus, there is the need to find a measure of cumulative viremia that can be used to assess both the short‐ and long‐term efficacy of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Here, we validate a measure of cumulative viremia to evaluate HAART efficacy.

Methods

We accessed HAART efficacy using data from a randomized clinical trial conducted in Mexico. We compared the proportion of individuals achieving a viral load <50 and <400 copies/mL at week 48, against the cumulative plasma viral load, estimated as the area under the plasma viral load curve (AUVLC). High AUVLC indicates high cumulative viremia.

Results and discussion

There was a strong and significant association between the proportion of individuals achieving a viral load <50 and <400 copies/mL at week 48, with individuals suppressed having significant lower cumulative viremia. The median area was 7513 (25th–75th percentile [Q1–Q3] 6634−8180) if viral load <50 copies/mL and 7679 (Q1–Q3 6899−9373) if viral load ≥50 copies/mL (p‐value 0.0284). When the analysis was stratified by study arm, individuals on efavirenz had lower cumulative viremia than those on boosted lopinavir.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that cumulative viremia should be explored further as a tool to simultaneously evaluate the individual and public health efficacy of HAART. This is particularly relevant to the implementation and evaluation of the Treatment 2.0 strategy recently proposed by UNAIDS and the WHO, as a means to maximize the individual and public health benefit of HAART.
The translational landscape of the splicing factor SRSF1 and its role in mitosis
Authors: Maslon Magdalena M , Heras Sara R , Bellora Nicolas , Eyras Eduardo , Cáceres Javier F
Published: May 2014

The shuttling serine/arginine rich (SR) protein SRSF1 (previously known as SF2/ASF) is a splicing regulator that also activates translation in the cytoplasm. In order to dissect the gene network that is translationally regulated by SRSF1, we performed a high-throughput deep sequencing analysis of polysomal fractions in cells overexpressing SRSF1. We identified approximately 1500 mRNAs that are translational targets of SRSF1. These include mRNAs encoding proteins involved in cell cycle regulation, such as spindle, kinetochore, and M phase proteins, which are essential for accurate chromosome segregation. Indeed, we show that translational activity of SRSF1 is required for normal mitotic progression. Furthermore, we found that mRNAs that display alternative splicing changes upon SRSF1 overexpression are also its translational targets, strongly suggesting that SRSF1 couples pre-mRNA splicing and translation. These data provide insights on the complex role of SRSF1 in the control of gene expression at multiple levels and its implications in cancer.
SETD2 is required for DNA double-strand break repair and activation of the p53-mediated checkpoint
Authors: Carvalho Sílvia , Vítor Alexandra C , Sridhara Sreerama C , Martins Filipa B , Raposo Ana C , Desterro Joana MP , Ferreira João , de Almeida Sérgio F
Published: May 2014

Histone modifications establish the chromatin states that coordinate the DNA damage response. In this study, we show that SETD2, the enzyme that trimethylates histone H3 lysine 36 (H3K36me3), is required for ATM activation upon DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs). Moreover, we find that SETD2 is necessary for homologous recombination repair of DSBs by promoting the formation of RAD51 presynaptic filaments. In agreement, SETD2-mutant clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) cells displayed impaired DNA damage signaling. However, despite the persistence of DNA lesions, SETD2-deficient cells failed to activate p53, a master guardian of the genome rarely mutated in ccRCC and showed decreased cell survival after DNA damage. We propose that this novel SETD2-dependent role provides a chromatin bookmarking instrument that facilitates signaling and repair of DSBs. In ccRCC, loss of SETD2 may afford an alternative mechanism for the inactivation of the p53-mediated checkpoint without the need for additional genetic mutations in TP53.
EDUCAÇÃO SUPERIOR EM TURISMO NO BRASIL: ANÁLISE DA OFERTA DE CURSOS SUPERIORES NO NORDESTE BRASILEIRO PELOS INSTITUTOS FEDERAIS
Authors: Mota Keila Cristina Nicolau , Anjos Francisco Antonio dos
Published: May 2014

O contexto da sociedade pós-industrial é de grandes mudanças, exigindo mais qualificação e provocando o aumento da quantidade e da qualidade da oferta de cursos superiores em turismo e áreas afins no Brasil. Este artigo, decorrente de pesquisa de doutorado, teve como objetivo analisar os cursos superiores de turismo ofertados no Nordeste Brasileiro pelos Institutos Federais de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia do país, considerando o contexto da educação superior brasileira. Buscou também, entre outros objetivos específicos, mapear a oferta de cursos superiores na área de turismo no Brasil. A pesquisa tratou de temas relevantes nessa área, com abordagem sistêmica. Caracterizado como descritivo-explicativo do objeto, segundo seus objetivos, o trabalho envolveu pesquisas do tipo bibliográfica, documental e de campo. No campo realizou-se pesquisa com os Institutos Federais do nordeste, pesquisando e analisando aspectos do projeto pedagógico e organização curricular, objetivos do curso e perfil profissiográfico do egresso, comunicação, relacionamento e qualidade dos cursos de turismo e áreas afins por eles ofertados. Foram identificados mais de mil cursos superiores de turismo e áreas afins em oferta no Brasil, em 2010, dos quais 251 são ofertados no nordeste e apenas 13 deles são ofertados pelos IF. Os cursos elaboram seus projetos baseado nos parâmetros do MEC (92,30%), não consideram a política de qualificação do estado onde se inserem, ofertam três línguas estrangeiras e objetivam formar principalmente para o planejamento e a elaboração de projetos, diferenciando-se dos bacharelados pelo aspecto mais prático e operacional do curso e não focando para a pesquisa. A pesquisa pretendeu ser um instrumento que promova discussão sobre o tema, podendo subsidiar estudos acadêmicos e ações práticas de gestores educacionais e políticos do Brasil, principalmente no Nordeste.
HOSPITALIDADE NUMA PERSPECTIVA COLETIVA: O CORPO COLETIVO ACOLHEDOR
Authors: Cappellano dos Santos Marcia Maria , Perazzolo Olga Araujo
Published: May 2014

O acolhimento, na perspectiva singular e coletiva, constitui hoje um dos principais pilares que sustentam a organização teórica, as práticas, e os sistemas estratégicos de planejamento turístico, na esfera pública e privada. Assim, com o objetivo de contribuir para a distinção dos processos que envolvem o acolher na forma singular e coletiva, apresenta-se o modelo do Corpo Coletivo Acolhedor, desenvolvido a partir de estudo realizado em comunidades potencialmente turísticas. O modelo é compreendido como um sistema que envolve: a) o conjunto dos serviços disponibilizados no âmbito das relações internas/externas; b) o organismo gestor, de natureza operacional, pública e privada; c) a cultura e o conhecimento gerado, compartilhado e transmitido pelo grupo/comunidade. O traçado dessa triangulação delimita o espaço em que o fenômeno do acolhimento e as práticas de hospitalidade se organizam e se desenvolvem. O modelo permite assim o estudo do fenômeno do acolhimento/hospitalidade no contexto das relações em que um dos corpos se constitui coletivamente.
ATITUDE E COMPORTAMENTO DE CONSUMO EM UM DESTINO ECOLÓGICO: UM ESTUDO COM JOVENS DE ILHABELA (SP, BRASIL)
Authors: Oliveira Braulio , Strehlau Suzane , Ximenes Régis Thomaz
Published: May 2014

A preservação do meio ambiente vem sendo discutida há bastante tempo na mídia e no meio acadêmico. O objetivo deste trabalho foi verificar a atitude e o comportamento de jovens de uma estância ecoturística, quanto ao consumo ecologicamente correto. A pesquisa foi realizada com uma amostra probabilística de 143 estudantes de ensino médio de Ilhabela, cidade do litoral norte do Estado de São Paulo, que tem como uma das principais atividades econômicas o turismo ecológico. As análises realizadas apontam que a população pesquisada pode ser dividida em três grupos em relação à atitude e ao comportamento de consumo ecologicamente correto, os quais foram rotulados de “proativo”, de “indiferente” e de “negativo”; mostram, ainda, que 10 das 40 assertivas da escala utilizada para mensurar o fenômeno discriminam os grupos e geram uma função que permite a alocação preditiva adequada de 92,3% da população pesquisada. A maioria dos perfis considerados “proativos”, gerados a partir da combinação das variáveis “gênero”, “ano escolar que cursa” e “renda”, é formado por mulheres. Conclui-se que é imperativo trabalhar a questão da preservação ambiental junto aos jovens, pois apenas 21% da população foram considerados “proativos”.
Turismo comunitário a partir de experiências brasileiras, chilenas e costarriquenha
Authors: Sampaio Carlos Alberto Cioce , Zechner Talita , Henríquez Christian , Coriolano Luzia Neide Menezes , Fernandes Soraia
Published: May 2014

O turismo comunitário é uma estratégia para que populações tradicionais, independente do grau de descaracterização frente à hegemonia das sociedades urbanas industriais, sejam protagonistas de seus modos de vida próprios, tornando-se uma alternativa possível ao modo de vida materialista-consumista. O objetivo deste artigo é refinar ou, melhor, justificar o conceito de turismo comunitário a partir de experiências latinoamericanas. Estas, por sua vez, se enquadram num contexto de desvantagens históricas, principalmente de populações tradicionais. Como resultado da pesquisa, essas experimentações não se resumem em uma nova alternativa heterodoxa de turismo, e sim de experimentações que possibilitam pensar uma nova economia, ou seja, a ecossocioeconomia, por via de uma outra racionalidade e que vem acontecendo nos domicílios, nos grupos produtivos e nas comunidades, onde os problemas e suas soluções acontecem, e raramente são devidamente qualificados. Conclui-se que o turismo comunitário é uma teoria pensada a partir das experimentações, das complexidades do cotidiano, das contradições inerentes à mudança paradigmática que se deseja quando se pensa nas limitações do utilitarismo econômico e que, muitas vezes, não se dá infelizmente na velocidade que se deseja. O desafio se coloca, como preservar a lógica comunitária dessas experiências de turismo comunitário sem perder sua dinâmica própria na ocasião que se inserem na economia de mercado.
The spectral variability of kieserite (MgSO4·H2O) with temperature and grain size and its application to the Martian surface
Authors: Jamieson C. S. , Noe Dobrea E. Z. , Dalton J. B. , Pitman K. M. , Abbey W. J.
Published: May 2014

We spectrally characterize (λ = 0.35–10 µm) the low‐humidity polymorph of kieserite (MgSO4·H2O), which is abundant on Mars and likely present on Europa, at various grain sizes and temperatures (100–300 K) relevant to the surfaces of Mars and Europa. Compositional analysis of these surfaces often relies on remote sensing using imaging spectrometers such as Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter Compact Reconnaissance Imaging Spectrometer for Mars (CRISM), Mars Express Observatoire pour la Minéralogie, l'Eau, les Glaces et l'Activité, and Galileo Near‐Infrared Mapping Spectrometer. To estimate surface abundances from these observations, well‐characterized laboratory spectra are required for comparison. Several variables, including temperature and grain size, affect the observed spectra and must be quantified in the laboratory to more confidently evaluate the returned data. Certain spectral features of kieserite exhibit predictable variability with changes in temperature and grain size that may be exploited to better understand the nature of kieserite on the surface of Mars. For instance, trends in our spectral analysis suggest that absorption features centered at λ < 3.0 µm were primarily sensitive to temperature changes, while features at λ > 3.0 µm were additionally sensitive to grain size changes. We compare our laboratory spectra with selected CRISM data of suspected Martian kieserite and assess the inherent uncertainty that exists in using band center minima to determine surface composition. Incorporation of these temperature and grain size‐specific spectra into linear mixture models of planetary surface spectra will improve the compositional interpretation and contribute to our understanding of surface geochemistry and chemical evolution.
UV sensitivity of planktonic net community production in ocean surface waters
Authors: Regaudie‐de‐Gioux Aurore , Agustí Susana , Duarte Carlos M.
Published: May 2014

The net plankton community metabolism of oceanic surface waters is particularly important as it more directly affects the partial pressure of CO2 in surface waters and thus the air‐sea fluxes of CO2. Plankton communities in surface waters are exposed to high irradiance that includes significant ultraviolet blue (UVB, 280–315 nm) radiation. UVB radiation affects both photosynthetic and respiration rates, increase plankton mortality rates, and other metabolic and chemical processes. Here we test the sensitivity of net community production (NCP) to UVB of planktonic communities in surface waters across contrasting regions of the ocean. We observed here that UVB radiation affects net plankton community production at the ocean surface, imposing a shift in NCP by, on average, 50% relative to the values measured when excluding partly UVB. Our results show that under full solar radiation, the metabolic balance shows the prevalence of net heterotrophic community production. The demonstration of an important effect of UVB radiation on NCP in surface waters presented here is of particular relevance in relation to the increased UVB radiation derived from the erosion of the stratospheric ozone layer. Our results encourage design future research to further our understanding of UVB effects on the metabolic balance of plankton communities.
Does oxygen exposure time control the extent of organic matter decomposition in peatlands?
Authors: Philben Michael , Kaiser Karl , Benner Ronald
Published: May 2014

The extent of peat decomposition was investigated in four cores collected along a latitudinal gradient from 56°N to 66°N in the West Siberian Lowland. The acid:aldehyde ratios of lignin phenols were significantly higher in the two northern cores compared with the two southern cores, indicating peats at the northern sites were more highly decomposed. Yields of hydroxyproline, an amino acid found in plant structural glycoproteins, were also significantly higher in northern cores compared with southern cores. Hydroxyproline‐rich glycoproteins are not synthesized by microbes and are generally less reactive than bulk plant carbon, so elevated yields indicated that northern cores were more extensively decomposed than the southern cores. The southern cores experienced warmer temperatures, but were less decomposed, indicating that temperature was not the primary control of peat decomposition. The plant community oscillated between Sphagnum and vascular plant dominance in the southern cores, but vegetation type did not appear to affect the extent of decomposition. Oxygen exposure time appeared to be the strongest control of the extent of peat decomposition. The northern cores had lower accumulation rates and drier conditions, so these peats were exposed to oxic conditions for a longer time before burial in the catotelm, where anoxic conditions prevail and rates of decomposition are generally lower by an order of magnitude.
Modeling priming effects on microbial consumption of dissolved organic carbon in rivers
Authors: Hotchkiss E. R. , Hall R. O. , Baker M. A. , Rosi‐Marshall E. J. , Tank J. L.
Published: May 2014

Rivers receive and process large quantities of terrestrial dissolved organic carbon (DOC). Biologically available (unstable) DOC leached from primary producers may stimulate (i.e., prime) the consumption of more stable terrestrially derived DOC by heterotrophic microbes. We measured microbial DOC consumption (i.e., decay rates) from contrasting C sources in 10 rivers in the western and Midwestern United States using short‐term bioassays of river water, soil and algal leachates, glucose, and commercial humate. We added inorganic nutrients (ammonium and phosphorus) to a subset of bioassays. We also amended a subset of river, soil, and commercial humate bioassays with glucose or algal leachates to test the hypothesis that unstable DOC primes consumption of more stable DOC. We used prior measurements of source‐specific DOC bioavailability, linked with a Bayesian process model, to estimate means and posterior probability distributions for source‐specific DOC decay rates in multisource bioassays. Modeled priming effects ranged from a −130 to +370% change in more stable DOC decay when incubated with unstable DOC. Glucose increased modeled river DOC decay by an average of 87% among all rivers. Glucose and algal leachates increased soil leachate and commercial humate decay by an average of 25% above background rates. Inorganic nutrient additions did not have consistent effects on DOC decay, likely because most of the study rivers had high ambient background nutrients. Our results demonstrate that the priming effect can augment DOC decay in rivers. In addition, Bayesian models can be used to estimate mechanisms driving aquatic ecosystem processes that are difficult to measure directly.
Bioremediation of Turbid Surface Water Using Seed Extract from the Moringa oleifera Lam. (Drumstick) Tree
Authors: Lea Michael
Published: May 2014

An indigenous water treatment method uses Moringa oleifera seeds in the form of a crude water‐soluble extract in suspension, resulting in an effective natural clarification agent for highly turbid and untreated pathogenic surface water. Efficient reduction (80.0% to 99.5%) of high turbidity produces an aesthetically clear supernatant, concurrently accompanied by 90.00% to 99.99% (1 to 4 log) bacterial reduction. Application of this low‐cost Moringa oleifera protocol is recommended for water treatment where rural and peri‐urban people living in extreme poverty are presently drinking highly turbid and microbiologically contaminated water. Curr. Protoc. Microbiol. 33:1G.1‐1G.8. © 2014 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Western Blot Assay for Quantitative and Qualitative Antigen Detection in Vaccine Development
Authors: Kumar Sanjai , Zheng Hong , Mahajan Babita , Kozakai Yukiko , Morin Merribeth , Locke Emily
Published: May 2014

Immunological methods for quantitative measurement, antigenic characterization, and monitoring the stability of active immunogenic component(s) are a critical need in the vaccine development process. This unit describes an enhanced chemiluminescence‐based western blot for quantitative detection of Plasmodium falciparum circumsporozoite protein (PfCSP), a major malaria candidate vaccine antigen. The most salient features of this assay are its high sensitivity and reproducibility; it can reliably detect ∼5 to 10 pg PfCSP expressed on native parasites or recombinantly expressed in Escherichia coli. Although described for a specific vaccine antigen, this assay should be applicable for any antigen‐antibody combination for which relevant detection reagents are available. Detailed stepwise experimental procedures and methods for data acquisition and analysis are described. Curr. Protoc. Microbiol. 33:18.4.1‐18.4.11. © 2014 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Overlapping trisomies for human chromosome 21 orthologs produce similar effects on skull and brain morphology of Dp(16)1Yey and Ts65Dn mice
Authors: Starbuck John M. , Dutka Tara , Ratliff Tabetha S. , Reeves Roger H. , Richtsmeier Joan T.
Published: May 2014

Trisomy 21 results in gene‐dosage imbalance during embryogenesis and throughout life, ultimately causing multiple anomalies that contribute to the clinical manifestations of Down syndrome. Down syndrome is associated with manifestations of variable severity (e.g., heart anomalies, reduced growth, dental anomalies, shortened life‐span). Craniofacial dysmorphology and cognitive dysfunction are consistently observed in all people with Down syndrome. Mouse models are useful for studying the effects of gene‐dosage imbalance on development. We investigated quantitative changes in the skull and brain of the Dp(16)1Yey Down syndrome mouse model and compared these mice to Ts65Dn and Ts1Cje mouse models. Three‐dimensional micro‐computed tomography images of Dp(16)1Yey and euploid mouse crania were morphometrically evaluated. Cerebellar cross‐sectional area, Purkinje cell linear density, and granule cell density were evaluated relative to euploid littermates. Skulls of Dp(16)1Yey and Ts65Dn mice displayed similar changes in craniofacial morphology relative to their respective euploid littermates. Trisomy‐based differences in brain morphology were also similar in Dp(16)1Yey and Ts65Dn mice. These results validate examination of the genetic basis for craniofacial and brain phenotypes in Dp(16)1Yey mice and suggest that they, like Ts65Dn mice, are valuable tools for modeling the effects of trisomy 21 on development. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Trihapto Ligation of a Borirene to a Single Metal Atom: A Heterocyclic Analogue of the η3‐Cyclopropenyl Ligand
Authors: Braunschweig Holger , Dewhurst Rian D. , Radacki Krzysztof , Tate Christopher W. , Vargas Alfredo
Published: May 2014

The first example of a complex containing an η3‐coordinated borirene ligand bound to a single metal atom was prepared by photolytic transfer of an arylborylene ligand to diphenylacetylene and loss of three CO ligands from the precursor. The η3‐borirene complex possesses a chromium(0) atom which is also bound to one phenyl group in an η6 fashion. The complex was isolated in 15 % yield along with the corresponding metal‐free borirene, which was isolated in 62 % yield. The bonding between the chromium center and the borirene ring was studied computationally by DFT methods.
Resveratrol and Its Metabolites Bind to PPARs
Authors: Calleri Enrica , Pochetti Giorgio , Dossou Katina S. S. , Laghezza Antonio , Montanari Roberta , Capelli Davide , Prada Ellen , Loiodice Fulvio , Massolini Gabriella , Bernier Michel , Moaddel Ruin
Published: May 2014

Resveratrol, a modulator of several signaling proteins, can exert off‐target effects involving the peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor (PPAR) transcription factors. However, evidence for the direct interaction between this polyphenol and PPARs is lacking. Here, we addressed the hypothesis that resveratrol and its metabolites control aspects of PPAR transcriptional activity through direct interaction with PPARs. Bioaffinity chromatographic studies with the immobilized ligand‐binding domains (LBDs) of PPARγ and PPARα and isothermal titration calorimetry allowed the binding affinities of resveratrol, resveratrol 3‐O‐glucuronide, resveratrol 4‐O‐glucuronide, and resveratrol 3‐O‐sulfate to both PPAR‐LBDs to be determined. Interaction of resveratrol, resveratrol 3‐O‐glucuronide, and resveratrol 4‐O‐glucuronide with PPARγ‐LBD occurred with binding affinities of 1.4, 1.1, and 0.8 μM, respectively, although only resveratrol bound to the PPARα‐LBD with a binding affinity of 2.7 μM. Subsequently, X‐ray crystallographic studies were carried out to characterize resveratrol binding to the PPARγ‐LBD at the molecular level. The electron density map from the crystal structure of the complex between PPARγ‐LBD and resveratrol revealed the presence of one molecule of resveratrol bound to the LBD of PPARγ, with the ligand occupying a position close to that of other known PPARγ ligands. Transactivation assays were also performed in HepG2 cells, with the results showing that resveratrol was not a PPAR agonist but instead was able to displace rosiglitazone from PPARγ and Wy‐14643 from PPARα with IC50 values of (27.4±1.8) μM and (31.7±2.5) μM, respectively. We propose that resveratrol acts as a PPAR antagonist through its direct interaction with PPARγ and PPARα.
Free Energy Fluctuations for Directed Polymers in Random Media in 1 + 1 Dimension
Authors: Borodin Alexei , Corwin Ivan , Ferrari Patrik
Published: May 2014

We consider two models for directed polymers in space‐time independent random media (the O'Connell‐Yor semidiscrete directed polymer and the continuum directed random polymer) at positive temperature and prove their KPZ universality via asymptotic analysis of exact Fredholm determinant formulas for the Laplace transform of their partition functions. In particular, we show that for large time τ, the probability distributions for the free energy fluctuations, when rescaled by τ1/3, converges to the GUE Tracy‐Widom distribution.

We also consider the effect of boundary perturbations to the quenched random media on the limiting free energy statistics. For the semidiscrete directed polymer, when the drifts of a finite number of the Brownian motions forming the quenched random media are critically tuned, the statistics are instead governed by the limiting Baik–Ben Arous–Péché distributions from spiked random matrix theory. For the continuum polymer, the boundary perturbations correspond to choosing the initial data for the stochastic heat equation from a particular class, and likewise for its logarithm—the Kardar‐Parisi‐Zhang equation. The Laplace transform formula we prove can be inverted to give the one‐point probability distribution of the solution to these stochastic PDEs for the class of initial data. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Phylogenetic community structure: temporal variation in fish assemblage
Authors: Santorelli Sergio , Magnusson William , Ferreira Efrem , Caramaschi Erica , Zuanon Jansen , Amadio Sidnéia
Published: May 2014

Hypotheses about phylogenetic relationships among species allow inferences about the mechanisms that affect species coexistence. Nevertheless, most studies assume that phylogenetic patterns identified are stable over time. We used data on monthly samples of fish from a single lake over 10 years to show that the structure in phylogenetic assemblages varies over time and conclusions depend heavily on the time scale investigated. The data set was organized in guild structures and temporal scales (grouped at three temporal scales). Phylogenetic distance was measured as the mean pairwise distances (MPD) and as mean nearest‐neighbor distance (MNTD). Both distances were based on counts of nodes. We compared the observed values of MPD and MNTD with values that were generated randomly using null model independent swap. A serial runs test was used to assess the temporal independence of indices over time. The phylogenetic pattern in the whole assemblage and the functional groups varied widely over time. Conclusions about phylogenetic clustering or dispersion depended on the temporal scales. Conclusions about the frequency with which biotic processes and environmental filters affect the local assembly do not depend only on taxonomic grouping and spatial scales. While these analyzes allow the assertion that all proposed patterns apply to the fish assemblages in the floodplain, the assessment of the relative importance of these processes, and how they vary depending on the temporal scale and functional group studied, cannot be determined with the effort commonly used. It appears that, at least in the system that we studied, the assemblages are forming and breaking continuously, resulting in various phylogeny‐related structures that makes summarizing difficult.
Autophagy plays a protective role as an anti‐oxidant system in human T cells and represents a novel strategy for induction of T‐cell apoptosis
Authors: Watanabe Ryu , Fujii Hiroshi , Shirai Tsuyoshi , Saito Shinichiro , Ishii Tomonori , Harigae Hideo
Published: May 2014

Autophagy is an intracellular degradation system that plays an important role in T‐cell survival. However, the precise mechanism linking autophagy and cell death in primary human T cells is unclear because methods for monitoring autophagy in small numbers of primary human cells remain controversial. We established a novel method for assessing autophagy in activated human T cells using a retroviral GFP–LC3 expression system. We found that autophagy was induced after TCR stimulation and that autophagy‐defective naïve CD4+ T cells were susceptible to apoptosis through the intrinsic apoptotic pathway. Enhanced apoptosis of autophagy‐defective T cells resulted from accumulation of ROS due to impaired mitophagy. We also demonstrated that effector memory CD4+ T cells had lower autophagic activity than naïve CD4+ T cells, which contributed to their enhanced apoptosis due to increased ROS. Moreover, blocking autophagy increased intracellular mitochondrial volume and ROS levels in activated T cells. These results suggest a protective role of autophagy as an anti‐oxidant system in activated human T cells. The combination of an autophagy blocker and a mitochondrial electron transport chain inhibitor has a synergistic effect on T‐cell death, which could be a novel strategy for induction of T‐cell apoptosis.
Investigator® Argus X‐12 study on the population of Czech Republic: Comparison of linked and unlinked X‐STRs for kinship analysis
Authors: Zidkova Anastassiya , Capek Pavel , Horinek Ales , Coufalova Pavla
Published: May 2014

DNA samples of 523 unrelated anonymized individuals (307 males and 216 females) born and living in the Czech Republic were genotyped using Investigator® Argus X‐12 system in the following loci localized in four linkage groups: DXS10148, DXS10135, DXS8378, DXS7132, DXS10079, DXS10074, DXS10103, HPRTB, DXS10101, DXS10146, DXS10134, DXS742. Haplotype frequencies were calculated for each LG (Linkage Group). The frequency of most common haplotype was 0.016, 0.036, 0.042, and 0.023 for LG1, LG2, LG3, and LG4, respectively. The combined power of discrimination was more than 0.999999999 both for female and male samples. The mean exclusion chance was 0.99999999 (trios) and 0.999999 (duos). Informativity and suitability of Investigator® Argus X‐12 for kinship determination was assessed by computing in several female–female duos using LR (Likelihood Ratio) determination for autosomal STR (PowerPlex ESI‐17), linked (Investigator® Argus X‐12 system), and unlinked (X‐STR Decaplex) X‐STR kits. Investigator® Argus X‐12 proved to be very useful for sibship determination, since its LR values were relatively similar to LR for autosomal STR kit. This work presents the first population data for Investigator® Argus X‐12 system in the Czech Republic.
Combining bar adsorptive microextraction with capillary electrophoresis—Application for the determination of phenolic acids in food matrices
Authors: da Rosa Neng Nuno , Sequeiros Rute C. P. , Florêncio Nogueira José Manuel
Published: May 2014

In this contribution, bar adsorptive microextraction coated with a mixed‐mode anion exchange/RP followed by liquid desorption was combined for the first time with a capillary electrophoresis‐diode array detection system (BAμE(MAX)‐LD/CE‐DAD), for the determination of phenolic acids in food matrices, using chlorogenic, ferulic, cumaric, and caffeic acids as model compounds. Assays performed in aqueous media spiked at the 0.8 mg/L level yielded average recoveries up to 40% for all four phenolic acids, under optimized experimental conditions. The analytical performance showed also good precision (RSD < 15%), convenient LODs (18.0–85.0 μg/L) and linear dynamic ranges (0.8–8.0 mg/L) with convenient determination coefficients (r2 > 0.9900). By using the standard addition method, the application to food matrices such as green tea, red fruit juice, and honey allowed very good performances for the determination of minor amounts of phenolic acids. The proposed methodology proved to be a suitable alternative for the analysis of polar to ionic compounds, showing to be easy to implement, reliable, sensitive, and requiring a low sample volume to determine phenolic acids in food samples.
Using problem solving therapy to treat veterans with subsyndromal depression: a pilot study
Authors: Kasckow J. , Klaus J. , Morse J. , Oslin D. , Luther J. , Fox L. , Reynolds C. , Haas G. L.
Published: May 2014

Objective

We conducted a pilot study comparing problem solving therapy for primary care (PST‐PC) to a dietary education control condition in middle‐aged and older veterans with symptoms of emotional distress and subsyndromal depression.

Methods

This was a two‐site study at the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System and Philadelphia VA Medical Center. Participants included veterans >50 years of age referred from primary care clinics who were eligible if they obtained a pre‐screen score >11 on the Centers for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CES‐D) scale. Exclusions were a DSM‐IV Major Depressive Episode within the past year, active substance abuse/dependence within 1 month, current antidepressant therapy, and a Mini mental status exam score <24. Participants were randomized to receive one of two interventions—either PST‐PC or an attention control condition consisting of dietary education (DIET)—each consisting of six to eight sessions within a 4‐month period.

Results

Of 45 individuals randomized, 23 (11 PST‐PC and 12 DIET) completed treatment. Using regression models in completers that examined outcomes at end of treatment while controlling for baseline scores, there were significant differences between treatment groups in SF‐36 mental health component scores but not in depressive symptoms (as assessed with either the 17‐item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression or the Beck Depression Inventory), social problem solving skills, or physical health status (SF‐36 physical health component score).

Conclusions

These pilot study findings suggest that a six‐to‐eight session version of PST‐PC may lead to improvements in mental health functioning in primary care veterans with subsyndromal depressive symptoms. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.