bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pedobacter nutrimenti sp. nov., isolated from chilled food
Authors: Derichs Julia , Kämpfer Peter , Lipski André
Published: January 2014

A Gram-stain-negative, aerobic, rod-shaped, non-motile, non-spore-forming bacterial strain, designated J22T, was isolated from fresh pasta filled with pork (tortellini) that had been stored at 6 °C. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, strain J22Tfalls within the radiation of species of the genusPedobacter. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities, the closest species phylogenetically arePedobacter panaciterraeLMG 23400T(98.7 %),Pedobacter africanusDSM 12126T(98.5 %) andPedobacter heparinusDSM 2366T(98.3 %). The only isoprenoid quinone of strain J22Twas menaquinone 7 (MK-7). The major fatty acids were iso-C15 : 0(34.8 %), C16 : 1cis9 (24.9 %), C16 : 0(7.3 %), C14 : 0(4.8 %) and iso-C17 : 03-OH (4.4 %). These chemotaxonomic characteristics supported the assignment of the isolate to the genusPedobacter. DNA–DNA hybridization experiments showed that the DNA–DNA relatedness between strain J22Tand its closest phylogenetic neighbour,Pedobacter panaciterraeLMG 23400T, was less than 36 %. This indicated that the isolate was distinct from this species. Biochemical tests allowed strain J22Tto be phenotypically differentiated from closely related species of the genusPedobacter. As a consequence, strain J22Tshould be classified as a representative of a novel species of the genusPedobacterfor which the namePedobacter nutrimentisp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is J22T( = DSM 27372T = CCUG 64422T).
Celeribacter marinus sp. nov., isolated from coastal seawater
Authors: Baek Kiwoon , Choi Ahyoung , Kang Ilnam , Cho Jang-Cheon
Published: January 2014

A Gram-staining-negative, non-motile, non-pigmented and rod-shaped bacterial strain, designated IMCC12053T, was isolated from coastal surface seawater of the Yellow Sea, Korea. Optimal growth of strain IMCC12053T was observed at 30 °C, pH 7.0 and in the presence of 2 % (w/v) NaCl. 16S rRNA gene sequence comparisons showed that strain IMCC12053T was most closely related to

Celeribacter baekdonensis

L-6T (97.5 % similarity) and

Celeribacter neptunius

H 14T (96.0 %). Strain IMCC12053T formed a robust phylogenetic clade with members of the genus

Celeribacter

. The DNA–DNA relatedness value between IMCC12053T and

C. baekdonensis

was far lower than 70 % (35.7–42.5 %), which indicated that strain IMCC12053T is a novel genomic species of the genus

Celeribacter

. The major respiratory isoprenoid quinone was ubiquinone-10 (Q-10) and major polar lipids were phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylcholine and aminolipids. The DNA G+C content was 61.0 mol%. On the basis of genotypic and phenotypic data collected in this study, it is proposed that strain IMCC12053T represents a novel species of the genus

Celeribacter

, for which the name Celeribacter marinus sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is IMCC12053T ( = KACC 17482T = NBRC 109702T).
The YscU/FlhB homologue HrcU from Xanthomonas controls type III secretion and translocation of early and late substrates
Authors: Hausner Jens , Büttner Daniela
Published: January 2014

The majority of Gram-negative plant- and animal-pathogenic bacteria employ a type III secretion (T3S) system to deliver effector proteins to eukaryotic cells. Members of the YscU protein family are essential components of the T3S system and consist of a transmembrane and a cytoplasmic region that is autocatalytically cleaved at a conserved NPTH motif. YscU homologues interact with T3S substrate specificity switch (T3S4) proteins that alter the substrate specificity of the T3S system after assembly of the secretion apparatus. We previously showed that the YscU homologue HrcU from the plant pathogen Xanthomonas campestris pv. vesicatoria interacts with the T3S4 protein HpaC and is required for the secretion of translocon and effector proteins. In the present study, analysis of HrcU deletion, insertion and point mutant derivatives led to the identification of amino acid residues in the cytoplasmic region of HrcU (HrcUC) that control T3S and translocation of the predicted inner rod protein HrpB2, the translocon protein HrpF and the effector protein AvrBs3. Mutations in the vicinity of the NPTH motif interfered with HrcU cleavage and/or the interaction of HrcUC with HrpB2 and the T3S4 protein HpaC. However, HrcU function was not completely abolished, suggesting that HrcU cleavage is not crucial for pathogenicity and T3S. Given that mutations in HrcU differentially affected T3S and translocation of HrpB2 and effector proteins, we propose that HrcU controls the secretion of different T3S substrate classes by independent mechanisms.
Binary co-crystals of the active pharmaceutical ingredient 1,4-bis(4-pyridyl)-2,3-diaza-1,3-butadiene and camphoric acid
Authors: Bisht Kamal Kumar , Patel Priyank , Rachuri Yadagiri , Eringathodi Suresh
Published: January 2014

Co-crystals comprising the active pharmaceutical ingredient 1,4-bis(4-pyridyl)-2,3-diaza-1,3-butadiene, C12H10N4, and the chiral co-formers (+)-, (−)- and (rac)-camphoric acid (cam), C10H16O4, have been synthesized. Two different stoichiometries of the API and co-former are obtained, namely 1:1 and 3:2. Crystallization experiments suggest that the 3:2 co-crystal is kinetically favoured over the 1:1 co-crystal. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis of the co-crystals reveals N—H...O hydrogen bonding as the primary driving force for crystallization of the supramolecular structures. The 1:1 co-crystal contains undulating hydrogen-bonded ribbons, in which the chiral cam molecules impart a helical twist. The 3:2 co-crystal contains discrete Z-shaped motifs comprising three molecules of the API and two molecules of cam. The 3:2 co-crystals with (+)-cam, (−)-cam (space groupP21) and (rac)-cam (space groupP21/n) are isostructural. The enantiomeric co-crystals contain pseudo-symmetry consistent with space groupP21/n, and the co-crystal with (rac)-cam represents a solid solution between the co-crystals containing (+)-cam and (−)-cam.
C—I...NC halogen bonding in two polymorphs of the mixed-valence 2:1 charge-transfer salt (EDT-TTF-I2)2(TCNQF4), with segregatedversusalternated stacks
Authors: Lieffrig Julien , Jeannin Olivier , Vacher Antoine , Lorcy Dominique , Auban-Senzier Pascale , Fourmigué Marc
Published: January 2014

Oxidation of diiodoethylenedithiotetrathiafulvalene (EDT-TTF-I2), C8H4I2S6, with the strong oxidizer tetrafluorotetracyanoquinodimethane (TCNQF4), C12F4N4, affords, depending on the crystallization solvent, two polymorphs of the 2:1 charge-transfer salt (EDT-TTF-I2)2(TCNQF4), represented asD2A. In both salts, the TCNQF4is reduced to the radical anion state, and is associated through short C—I...NC halogen bonds to two EDT-TTF-I2molecules. The two polymorphs differ in the solid-state association of these trimericD–A–Dmotifs. In polymorph (I) the trimeric motif is located on an inversion centre, and hence both EDT-TTF-I2molecules have +0.5 charge. Together with segregation of the TTF and TCNQ derivatives into stacks, this leads to a charge-transfer salt with high conductivity. In polymorph (II) two crystallographically independent EDT-TTF-I2molecules bear different charges, close to 0 and +1, as deduced from an established correlation between intramolecular bond lengths and charge. Overlap interactions between the halogen-bondedD0–A^{{-}{\bullet}}–D^{{+}{\bullet}} motifs give rise, in a perpendicular direction, to diamagneticA22−andD0–D22+–D0entities, where the radical species are paired into the bonding combination of respectively the acceptor LUMOs and donor HOMOs. The strikingly different solid-state organization of the halogen-bondedD–A–Dmotifs provides an illustrative example of two modes of face-to-face interaction between π-type radicals, into either delocalized, uniform chains with partial charge transfer and conducting behaviour, or localized association of radicals into face-to-faceA22−andD22+dyads.
Polymorphs, hydrates and solvates of a co-crystal of caffeine with anthranilic acid
Authors: Madusanka Nadeesh , Eddleston Mark D. , Arhangelskis Mihails , Jones William
Published: January 2014

A polymorph screen on a new 1:1 co-crystal of caffeine, C8H10N4O2, with anthranilic acid, C7H7NO2, has revealed a rich diversity of crystal forms (two polymorphs, two hydrates and seven solvates, including two sets of isostructural solvates). These forms were prepared by liquid-assisted grinding and solution crystallization, and the crystal structures of nine of these forms have been solved using either single-crystal or powder X-ray data. The structures contain O—H...N and N—H...O hydrogen bonds through which caffeine and anthranilic acid molecules assemble to form zigzag-type chains. These chains can interact in an anti-parallel and offset manner to form cage- or channel-type skeletons within which solvent molecules can be located, giving rise to the diversity of forms observed for this co-crystal. In contrast, an equivalent series of liquid-assisted grinding and solution crystallization experiments with the closely related system of theobromine, C7H8N4O2, and anthranilic acid resulted in the formation of only one 1:1 co-crystal form.
Three new europium(III) methanetriacetate metal-organic frameworks: the influence of synthesis on the product topology
Authors: Cañadillas-Delgado Laura , Fabelo Óscar , Pasán Jorge , Déniz Mariadel , Martínez-Benito Carla , Díaz-Gallifa Pau , Martín Tomás , Ruiz-Pérez Catalina
Published: January 2014

Three new metal-organic framework structures containing EuIIIand the little explored methanetriacetate (C7H7O63−, mta3−) ligand have been synthesized. Gel synthesis yields a two-dimensional framework with the formula [Eu(mta)(H2O)3]n·2nH2O, (I), while two polymorphs of the three-dimensional framework material [Eu(mta)(H2O)]n·nH2O, (II) and (III), are obtained through hydrothermal synthesis at either 423 or 443 K. Compounds (I) and (II) are isomorphous with previously reported GdIIIcompounds, but compound (III) constitutes a new phase. Compound (I) can be described in terms of dinuclear [Eu2(H2O)4]6+units bonded through mta3−ligands to form a two-dimensional framework with topology corresponding to a (6,3)-connected binodal (43)(466683)-kgdnet, where the dinuclear [Eu2(H2O)4]6+units are considered as a single node. Compounds (II) and (III) have distinct three-dimensional topologies, namely a (41263)(4966)-nianet for (II) and a (41065)(41164)-K2O2; 36641net for (III). The crystal density of (III) is greater than that of (II), consistent with the increase of temperature, and thereby autogeneous pressure, in the hydrothermal synthesis.
Direct phasing in femtosecond nanocrystallography. I. Diffraction characteristics
Authors: Chen Joe P. J. , Spence John C. H. , Millane Rick P.
Published: January 2014

X-ray free-electron lasers solve a number of difficulties in protein crystallography by providing intense but ultra-short pulses of X-rays, allowing collection of useful diffraction data from nanocrystals. Whereas the diffraction from large crystals corresponds only to samples of the Fourier amplitude of the molecular transform at the Bragg peaks, diffraction from very small crystals allows measurement of the diffraction amplitudes between the Bragg samples. Although highly attenuated, these additional samples offer the possibility of iterative phase retrieval without the use of ancillary experimental data [Spenceet al.(2011).Opt. Express,19, 2866–2873]. This first of a series of two papers examines in detail the characteristics of diffraction patterns from collections of nanocrystals, estimation of the molecular transform and the noise characteristics of the measurements. The second paper [Chenet al.(2014).Acta Cryst.A70, 154–161] examines iterative phase-retrieval methods for reconstructing molecular structures in the presence of the variable noise levels in such data.
The interactive effects of soil transplant into colder regions and cropping on soil microbiology and biogeochemistry
Authors: Liu Shanshan , Wang Feng , Xue Kai , Sun Bo , Zhang Yuguang , He Zhili , Van Nostrand Joy D. , Zhou Jizhong , Yang Yunfeng
Published: January 2014

Soil transplant into warmer regions has been shown to alter soil microbiology. In contrast, little is known about the effects of soil transplant into colder regions, albeit that climate cooling has solicited attention in recent years. To address this question, we transplanted bare fallow soil over large transects from southernChina (subtropical climate zone) to central (warm temperate climate zone) and northernChina (cold temperate climate zone). After an adaptation period of 4 years, soil nitrogen components, microbial biomass and community structures were altered. However, the effects of soil transplant on microbial communities were dampened by maize cropping, unveiling a negative interaction between cropping and transplant. Further statistical analyses with Canonical correspondence analysis and Mantel tests unveiled annual average temperature, relative humidity, aboveground biomass, soilpHandNH4+‐Ncontent as environmental attributes closely correlated with microbial functional structures. In addition, average abundances ofamoA‐AOA(ammonia‐oxidizing archaea) andamoA‐AOB(ammonia‐oxidizing bacteria) genes were significantly (P < 0.05) correlated with soil nitrification capacity, hence bothAOAandAOBcontributed to the soil functional process of nitrification. These results suggested that the soil nitrogen cycle was intimately linked with microbial community structure, and both were subjected to disturbance by soil transplant to colder regions and plant cropping.
Intravenous ferrous sucrose versus placebo in addition to oral iron therapy for the treatment of severe postpartum anaemia: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Perelló MF , Coloma JL , Masoller N , Esteve J , Palacio M
Published: January 2014

Objective

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of intravenous iron versus placebo added to standard oral iron therapy in the treatment of severe postpartum anaemia.

Design

A randomised, double‐blind, parallel‐group, placebo‐controlled clinical trial was performed in a single centre.

Setting

Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.

Population

A cohort of 72 women with severe postpartum anaemia (6.0–8.0 g/dl) treated with oral ferrous sulphate (two tablets of 525 mg).

Methods

Women were randomised to receive either intravenous ferrous sucrose (200 mg/24 hours for two consecutive days) or intravenous placebo, in addition to standard iron therapy. Clinical and laboratory data were obtained at 1, 2, and 6 weeks.

Main outcome measures

Haemoglobin and haematocrit at 1, 2, and 6 weeks. Other haematological and clinical parameters, psychological status, and adverse side effects were also evaluated.

Results

Haemoglobin and haematocrit values were comparable in women receiving intravenous iron or placebo in addition to oral iron therapy at any of the time points. At 6 weeks, haemoglobin level (mean ± SD) was 12.2 ± 1.0 versus 12.2 ± 0.9 g/dl, with a mean difference of −0.03 (95% CI −0.6 to 0.6), in the placebo and in the intravenous iron groups, respectively. No differences were found between clinical symptoms of anaemia, psychological status, and adverse side effects between groups.

Conclusions

Intravenous iron added to oral iron therapy did not show significant benefits over placebo, neither in haemoglobin rise nor in symptoms or adverse side effects.
Angioplasty of the anterior tibial artery through an incidentally discovered persistent sciatic artery
Authors: H'ng Martin Weng Chin , Punamiya Sundeep
Published: January 2014

The persistent sciatic artery (PSA) is a rare arterial variant. Patients may present with a spectrum of atherosclerotic disease, but aneurysm formation with thromboembolic complications is more common. Although no intervention is required for asymptomatic individuals, stenting for stenosis, thrombolysis for occlusion and even utilisation of the PSA for intrapelvic embolisation have been reported. Angioplasty via an incidentally discovered PSA has rarely been described.
Discovery of three woolly apple aphid Eriosoma lanigerum (Hemiptera: Aphididae) biotypes in Australia: the role of antixenosis and antibiosis in apple tree resistance
Authors: Costa Arnaud , Williams David G , Powell Kevin S
Published: January 2014

The woolly apple aphid (WAA), Eriosoma lanigerum Hausmann, is a worldwide pest of apple orchards that has become widespread in apple‐growing regions of Australia. Several WAA populations that are geographically distant may have evolved into biotypes having different fitness (e.g. fecundity) in similar biotic and abiotic conditions. In this study, we investigated the performance of four different lines of WAA (designated as ALB, STA, BAT and YAR) originating from four locations in Victoria and New South Wales (Australia). Nymph establishment, nymph development to adult, nymph developmental time, female fecundity and adult weight of apterous virginoparae on apple trees (cv Granny Smith) were monitored under glasshouse conditions. Results showed that at least three lines examined here differ significantly in one or more performance parameters. Nymphs of the STA lineage showed a significantly higher establishment success after 7 days (64.3%) compared with lines BAT (53.1%) and YAR (43.6%). Nymph development to adulthood followed a similar trend. The average fecundity/female/7 days of the ALB lineage (19.7 ± 1.6 nymphs) was the lowest and significantly reduced relative to all other lines (from 36.6 to 40.5 nymphs). These results demonstrate the existence of at least three different biotypes in Australia. Antibiosis and antixenosis, respectively, could explain lower aphid establishment and lower female fecundity once settled. The characterisation of different WAA biotypes could have important implications for WAA management, and further studies should evaluate the overall diversity of biotypes, their geographical distribution and their growth characteristics to fully optimise pest control strategies.
Update of the WHO/IUIS Allergen Nomenclature Database based on analysis of allergen sequences
Authors: Radauer C. , Nandy A. , Ferreira F. , Goodman R. E. , Larsen J. N. , Lidholm J. , Pomés A. , Raulf‐Heimsoth M. , Rozynek P. , Thomas W. R. , Breiteneder H.
Published: January 2014

The IUIS Allergen Nomenclature Sub‐Committee, under the auspices of the World Health Organization and the International Union of Immunological Societies, maintains the systematic nomenclature of allergenic proteins and publishes a database of approved allergen names on its Web site, www.allergen.org. In this paper, we summarize updates of allergen names approved at the meetings of the committee in 2011 through 2013. These changes reflect recent progress in identification, cloning, and sequencing of allergens. The goals of this update were to increase consistency in the classification of allergens, isoallergens, and variants and in the incorporation of the evolutionary classification of proteins into allergen nomenclature, while keeping changes of established names to a minimum in the interest of continuity. Allergens for which names have been updated include respiratory allergens from birch and ragweed pollen, midge larvae, and horse dander; food allergens from peanut, cow's milk, and tomato; and cereal grain allergens. The IUIS Allergen Nomenclature Sub‐Committee encourages researchers to use these updated allergen names in future publications.
Subcutaneous protein C concentrate in the management of severe protein C deficiency – experience from 12 centres
Authors: Minford Adrian , Behnisch Wolfgang , Brons Paul , David Michele , Gomez Gomez Natividad , Hertfelder Hans‐Joerg , Kruempel Anne , Kurnik Karin , Mathias Mary , Molines Honrubia Antonio , Monagle Paul , Morgan Mary , Nowak‐Göttl Ulrike , Olivieri Martin
Published: January 2014

Since the first description of subcutaneous protein C concentrate as treatment for severe protein C deficiency in 1996, further cases have been reported but there is no uniform approach to this form of treatment. In order to assess the safety and effectiveness of subcutaneous protein C concentrate and suggest recommendations for future use, patients who had received subcutaneous protein C concentrate were identified from the literature, by contacting the manufacturers and by personal communication. Treatment details were available from 14 cases. Apart from one case where the infusion interval was inadvertently increased, no thrombotic events occurred even when doses were subsequently reduced. Initially, a trough protein C level of >0·25 iu/ml should be aimed for. Subsequently, a smaller dose of subcutaneous protein C concentrate, especially if taken with an oral anticoagulant, may be protective maintenance treatment. The treatment was well tolerated with few side effects. Subcutaneous protein C concentrate on its own or combined with an oral anticoagulant appears to be safe and effective as maintenance treatment of severe protein C deficiency. A major advantage is the avoidance of central venous access devices. The incidence of neurodevelopmental handicap was high with blindness affecting the majority of patients.
Variations in the wind‐energy regime of the Taklimakan Desert, central Asia, over the last 700 years as inferred from nebkha sedimentology and chronology
Authors: Wang Xunming , Lang Lili , Hua Ting , Zhang Caixia , Li Hui
Published: January 2014

Changes in the wind‐energy environment between AD 1359 and 2010 in the Taklimakan Desert (central Asia) are recorded by the evolution of Chinese tamarisk (Tamarix taklamakanensis) nebkhas. The carbonate component and sedimentological properties of the nebkha excavated during the study, together with AMS 14C dating control, indicate that significant regional environmental changes have occurred in the central Taklimakan Desert during the last 700 years. The nebkha data presented show that in the periods of AD c. 1480–1560, c. 1640–1690, c. 1760–1820, c. 1860–1930 and c. 1970–1980 the Taklimakan Desert was a relatively high wind‐energy environment. Although changes in the wind‐energy regime in the desert were mainly in phase with fluctuations of the Siberian High, the wind systems and the variations in wind energy exhibit slight differences when compared with the Tarim Basin. Nebkhas that develop in this region originate from the surfaces of mobile dunes or sand sheets, which differs from the origins of nebkhas found in other arid regions of China.
RETRACTED: Marginal bone loss evaluation around immediate non‐occlusal microthreaded implants placed in fresh extraction sockets in the maxilla: a 3‐year study
Authors: Calvo‐Guirado José L. , Gómez‐Moreno Gerardo , Aguilar‐Salvatierra Antonio , Guardia Javier , Delgado‐Ruiz Rafael A. , Romanos Georgios E.
Published: January 2014

Objective

To evaluate marginal bone loss over 3 years around immediate microthreaded implants placed in the maxillary anterior/esthetic zone and immediately restored with single crowns.

Material and methods

Seventy‐one implants (with microthreads up to the platform – rough surface body and neck, internal connection and platform switching) were placed in fresh extraction sockets in the maxillary arches of 30 men and 23 women (mean age 37.85 ± 7.09 years, range 27–60). All subjects had at least 3 mm of soft tissue to allow the establishment of adequate biologic width and to reduce bone resorption. Each patient received a provisional restoration immediately after implant placement with slight occlusal contact. Mesial and distal bone height was evaluated using digital radiography on the day following implant placement (baseline) and after 1, 2, and 3 years. Primary stability was measured with resonance frequency analysis.

Results

No implants failed, resulting in a cumulative survival rate of 100% after 3 years. Marginal bone loss from implant collar to bone crest measured at baseline (peri‐implant bone defect at the fresh extraction socket) and after 3 years was 0.86 mm ± 0.29 mm. Mesial and distal site crestal bone loss ranged from 3.42 mm ± 1.2 mm at baseline to 3.51 mm ± 1.5 mm after 3 years (P = 0.063) and from 3.38 mm ± 0.9 mm at baseline to 3.49 mm ± 0.9 mm after 3 years, respectively (P = 0.086).

Conclusions

This prospective study found minimal marginal bone loss and a 100% implant survival rate over the 3‐year follow‐up for microthreaded immediate implants subjected to immediate non‐occlusal loading.
Sex‐associated differences in pancreatic β cell function in healthy preweaning pony foals
Authors: Jellyman J. K. , Valenzuela O. A. , Allen V. L. , Holdstock N. B. , Fowden A. L.
Published: January 2014

Reasons for performing study

Pancreatic β cells are responsive to a range of stimuli during early post natal life in healthy pony foals. However, little is known about whether these responses are sex‐linked.

Objectives

To determine pancreatic β cell responses to the insulin secretagogues, glucose, arginine and tolbutamide, in fillies and colts during the first 3 months after birth.

Study design

In vivoexperiment examining sex differences in pancreatic β cell function in foals.

Methods

Female (n = 8) and male (n = 5) pony foals were infused i.v. with glucose (0.5 g/kg bwt 40% dextrose), arginine (100 mg/kg bwt) or tolbutamide (10 or 20 mg/kg bwt) over 5 min, at 48 h intervals, to assess pancreatic β cell function at ages 2 and 12 weeks. Blood samples (4 ml) were taken through a jugular catheter at ‐30, ‐15 and 0 min (immediately before) and 5, 15, 30, 45, 60, 90 and 120 min after glucose, arginine and tolbutamide administration for measurements of plasma glucose, α‐amino‐nitrogen and insulin concentrations.

Results

The maximum increment in plasma insulin concentration in response to glucose was significantly higher in female (395 ± 58 ng/l) than male (172 ± 37 ng/l, P<0.05) pony foals 2 weeks after birth and the area under the insulin curve was significantly greater in females at this age. At 12 weeks, the insulin increment in response to glucose was significantly greater in fillies 45 min post infusion. The β cell responses to arginine and tolbutamide were not sex‐linked at either age.

Conclusions

These data show that in ponies, fillies have a greater β cell response to glucose than colts in early post natal life. Since glucose clearance was unaffected by sex, the results suggest that fillies may be less insulin sensitive than colts shortly after birth. Innate sex differences in the secretion and action of insulin in early post natal life may influence tissue development and growth with potentially more long‐term metabolic consequences.
Carbon storage in tropical forests correlates with taxonomic diversity and functional dominance on a global scale
Authors: Cavanaugh Kyle C. , Gosnell J. Stephen , Davis Samantha L. , Ahumada Jorge , Boundja Patrick , Clark David B. , Mugerwa Badru , Jansen Patrick A. , O'Brien Timothy G. , Rovero Francesco , Sheil Douglas , Vasquez Rodolfo , Andelman Sandy
Published: January 2014

Aim

We examined (1) the relationships between aboveground tropical forestCstorage, biodiversity and environmental drivers and (2) how these relationships inform theory concerning ecosystem function and biodiversity. Experiments have shown that there is a positive relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem functioning, but intense debate exists on the underlying mechanisms. While some argue that mechanisms such as niche complementarity increase ecosystem function, others argue that these relationships are a selection effect.

Location

Eleven tropical forests in theAmericas,Africa andAsia.

Methods

We analysed the correlates of biodiversity and carbon storage in tropical forests using data from 59 1‐ha tree plots from a standardized global tropical forest biodiversity‐monitoring network. We examined taxonomic and functional diversity, abovegroundCstorage and environmental variables in order to determine the relationships between biodiversity and carbon storage in natural (non‐plantation) tropical forests.

Results

We found that abovegroundCstorage in tropical forests increased with both taxonomic diversity and functional dominance, specifically the dominance of genera with large maximum diameters, after potential environmental drivers were accounted for (final modelR2 = 0.38,P < 0.001).

Main conclusions

Our results suggest that niche complementarity and the selection effect are not mutually exclusive: they both play a role in structuring tropical forests. While previous studies have documented relationships between diversity andCstorage, these have largely been conducted on small scales in biomes that are relatively species poor compared with tropical forests (e.g. grasslands and temperate or boreal forests). Our results demonstrate that these positive biodiversity–ecosystem functioning relationships are also present in hyperdiverse systems on spatial scales relevant to conservation and management. This insight can be used to inform the conservation and management of tropical forests, which play a critical role in the global carbon cycle and are some of the biologically richest ecosystems on the planet.
Governing precarious lives: land grabs, geopolitics, and ‘food security’
Authors: Nally David
Published: January 2014

This paper has a two‐part structure. The first part of the paper explores contemporary land grabs and shows how they both reflect and constitute a new neoliberal governance structure over land and land‐based resources. In this sense, what is noteworthy about land grabs is their world‐making capacity: the deals structure and make possible new relations of power in the global food economy. For this very reason, it is crucial to understand how land grabs affect both thepaceanddirectionof agrarian change. The second part of the paper examines the discursive strategies that align ‘food security’ concerns with land‐grabbing practices. HereIsuggest that ‘food security’ supplies a moral sanction for land grabs. By mustering public empathy around a desire to ‘feed the future’, food security discourse – to borrow an idea from Fassin (2012) – converts a relationship of dominance (the governance of precarious lives) into a relationship of assistance (the provision of a remedy).
The status of gifts in the receiver's life: reasons for the transformation of commercial products into special, common or hated objects
Authors: Cruz‐Cárdenas Jorge
Published: January 2014

Within the framework of consumer behaviour, products received as gifts are a complex accumulation of values and meanings that continue to change over time, from their origin as primarily commercial products until their disposition. Through a survey of 1088 adults in Ecuador, a Latin American country with a high level of collectivism, this study aimed to determine the predictors of the gift's status in the receiver's life. Results showed that the comparison of the giver's and receiver's resources and ages, the receiver's liking for the product received, being a gift from a first‐time giver, the receiver's satisfaction with the experience and the impact of the gift on the giver–receiver relationship were significant predictors of whether a commercial product received as a gift would become a special, common or hated object for the receiver.
Perceptions and preference for fresh seafood in an Australian context
Authors: McManus Alexandra , Hunt Wendy , Storey Jessica , McManus Jennifer , Hilhorst Samantha
Published: January 2014

Seafood as a whole food is highly nutritious. It is an important dietary source of protein, omega‐3 fatty acids and a wide array of highly bioavailable micronutrients. Despite the established health benefits associated with fish and seafood consumption, in Australia consumption levels still remain below those recommended for health. Although considerable research has been carried out on enablers and barriers to seafood consumption, the reasons Australian consumers do not consume recommended amounts of seafood while stating they would like to consume more seafood are complex and have not been fully illuminated. This paper reports on the development and results of a self‐administered questionnaire that aimed to identify consumer perceptions and preferences for fresh and frozen seafood. Data were collected through intercept surveys at an Australian university and 239 valid responses were received. Results confirmed respondent preference for fresh fish and seafood. There was significant confusion among respondents about what constitutes fresh seafood, with the term ‘fresh’ having different meanings to different respondents. Over half of respondents understood the term fresh to relate to seafood having been caught that same day. In comparison, approximately 15% understood fresh to reflect the accepted definition of having never been frozen. Additionally, results indicated respondents find it difficult to recognize if seafood is fresh, particularly in comparison with other meats. There is significant potential for the development of regulations for labelling of unpackaged seafood in order to allow consumers to make informed decisions about their purchases.
Exploring opportunities for providing pharmacists with feedback on their practice and performance around the electronic Minor Ailments Service in Scotland
Authors: Paudyal Vibhu , Hansford Denise , Cunningham Scott , Stewart Derek
Published: January 2014

Background

The electronic Minor Ailments Service (e-MAS), implemented in all community pharmacies in Scotland since 2006, allows pharmacists to manage minor ailments at no charge to patients including provision of medication, advice or referral. E-MAS is supported through an electronic network, ‘E-pharmacy’, which is managed by National Health Service Scotland. E-pharmacy has the capacity to remotely record e-MAS activities, such as details of medicines supply and patient registration allowing provision of feedback to community pharmacies.

Objective

The aim of this research was to explore community pharmacists' views on potential utility of e-MAS performance data as a source of feedback on the quality of their own practice.

Method

Focus groups and telephone interviews with community pharmacists from four geographical Health Board areas in Scotland were utilised.

Key findings

 Twenty community pharmacists took part in the study. Pharmacists highlighted potential for feedback to support practice in areas related to medicines supply (for example, formulary adherence and reimbursements to pharmacies from the Health Boards), patient registration and the impact of the new guidelines on their practice. Participants deemed individualised feedback to be potentially more useful than local or national aggregated data sets. Issues of confidentiality and participants' disinterest in feedback were potential barriers to the use of the data.

Conclusions

This qualitative study has identified potential benefits of performance feedback data to pharmacists' practice. Key barriers to the use of the feedback, such as the issues of privacy and confidentiality need to be addressed by National Health Service information providers. Findings warrant further large scale evaluation of their application to practice.
Zimeldine in depressive illness — efficacy and safety data
Authors: Burrows G. D. , Norman T. R. , Marriott P. F. , Davies B.
Published: January 2014

ABSTRACT— Two studies of zimeldine in depressive illness are reported, one a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial, the other an open evaluation. In both studies, zimeldine was shown to have antidepressant properties. No simple relationship between plasma zimeldine or norzimeldine and clinical effect was demonstrated in eight patients treated for 6 weeks. Minor changes in electrocardiographic parameters were noted in some zimeldine patients. Side‐effects attributable to zimeldine treatment were generally of mild to moderate severity and the drug was well tolerated. During the studies, one patient overdosed on zimeldine (5.2 g) and, although plasma concentrations were excessive, minimum side‐effects were recorded. Two cases of suspected adverse drug reactions with zimeldine are described.
A multicentre double‐blind comparative trial of zimeldine and imipramine in primary major depressive disorders
Authors: Hiramatsu K‐I. , Takahashi R. , Mori A. , Inoue R. , Kazamatsuri H. , Murasaki M. , Sakuma A.
Published: January 2014

ABSTRACT— Zimeldine, a new antidepressant with a selective inhibition of 5‐HT reuptake, was compared with imipramine in a double‐blind comparative study. The trial was conducted on 95 patients with primary major depressive disorder, of endogenous character. During the 4‐week study period clinical efficacy was evaluated by using the Hamilton Depression (HAM‐D) scale, Beck's Inventory and global ratings.

Zimeldine (100 mg b.d.) was shown to have as good an antidepressive effect as imipramine (50 mg t.d.s.) when evaluated on the HAM‐D scale. Assessment of the symptom improvement on this rating scale suggested that zimeldine was more effective in improving the patient's insight of the disease.

There was no significant difference between zimeldine and imipramine as assessed by a final global improvement rating scale as well as by the patient's own impression.

Exploratory data analysis revealed that zimeldine was significantly more effective than imipramine in the following groups; patients over 40 years of age; patients whose initial onset of illness occurred at over 40 years; patients with a history of at least three episodes of depressive illness; patients with mild to moderate depression; and patients who had previously failed to show an appreciable response to other antidepressant treatment. Analysis of global safety ratings revealed that zimeldine is significantly safer than imipramine, with a lower incidence of adverse symptoms involving the autonomic nervous system, especially anticholinergic reactions.

No significant difference was observed between the two groups with respect to abnormal laboratory reports. One zimeldine patient developed symptoms suggesting a hypersensitivity reaction (fever, skin eruption and elevation of plasma levels of transaminases), which led to the patient's withdrawal from drug treatment.
A comparison of zimeldine and amitriptyline on cardiovascular effects in healthy volunteers
Authors: Wester H. A.
Published: January 2014

ABSTRACT— The cardiovascular effects of zimeldine (200 mg) and amitriptyline (150 mg) for 6 days were compared in a study involving 10 healthy volunteers. No significant changes were found in heart rate, mean arterial blood pressure or left ventricular contractility when patients were taking zimeldine. With amitriptyline, significant changes were seen at some point during the trial period for all these parameters. No significant changes were seen in the ECGs recorded.

Thus, zimeldine appears to be free of adverse effects on contractility, but amitriptyline appears to have a negative inotropic effect.
Effects of zimeldine and other antidepressants on skilled performance: a comprehensive review
Authors: Seppälä T. , Linnoila M.
Published: January 2014

ABSTRACT— Existing data suggest that amitriptyline, doxepin, mianserin, viloxazine and imipramine impair the performance of skilled psychomotor tasks. The degree of impairment, as well as the degree of interaction with alcohol, is closely related to the sedative potency of the drug. The adverse effects on psychomotor skills are, however, mainly limited to the first 10 days of treatment. In contrast, nortriptyline, clomipramine, desipramine, protriptyline, nomifensine and zimeldine have much less marked effects on skilled performance. Despite its being a relatively new antidepressant, the effects of zimeldine on psychomotor skills have already been extensively investigated. It has been shown to be without stimulant or sedative effects, and there does not appear to be any additive effect between zimeldine and ethanol. The lack of detrimental effects on skills related to such tasks as driving, makes zimeldine suitable for use in out‐patient populations.
The influence of perceived accountability and outcome interdependence on goals and effort
Authors: Converse Patrick D. , Piccone Katrina , Lockamy Christen N. , Miloslavic Stephanie A. , Mysiak Kamil , Pathak Jaya
Published: January 2014

Self‐regulatory processes are central to achievement contexts, as individuals spend much of their time in these situations pursuing goals. This study investigated the effects of accountability and outcome interdependence on goal and effort regulation over time. Participants completed five task trials, reporting goals and intended effort prior to each trial and receiving performance feedback after each trial. Hierarchical linear modeling analyses indicated that there was a positive within‐person relationship between performance and subsequent goals. More importantly, findings indicated that the performance–goal relationship was moderated by accountability and the performance–effort relationship was moderated by outcome interdependence. These results reveal that the goal and effort regulation patterns observed in prior studies are influenced by common social contextual factors, leading to different patterns of self‐regulation.
Dutch adolescents' tolerance ofMuslim immigrants: the role of assimilation ideology, intergroup contact, and national identification
Authors: Gieling Maike , Thijs Jochem , Verkuyten Maykel
Published: January 2014

This study set out to examine nativeDutch adolescents' tolerance (N = 1,139) of Muslim immigrants in relation to the endorsement of assimilation, national identification, and contact with ethnic minority peers. The focus was on two dimensions of tolerance: the acceptance of practices byMuslim actors, andMuslims persuading co‐believers to engage in the same practices. Tolerance was found to be higher for the practices than for persuading others. Higher endorsement of assimilation was related to lower levels of tolerance, and this relation was stronger for higher compared to lower national identifiers. Assimilation mediated the positive relationship between intergroup contact and tolerance. These effects did not differ for the two dimensions of tolerance. The implications of these findings are discussed.
Retarded low‐dose doxycycline for EGFR or MEK inhibitor–induced papulopustular rash
Authors: Vaubel J. , Livingstone E. , Schadendorf D. , Zimmer L.
Published: January 2014

Background

Epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors (EGFRi) and MEK inhibitors (MEKi) are notorious for causing papulopustular rash. Treatment recommendations from studies and expert panels include, amongst others, oral tetracyclines. The efficacy of retarded low‐dose doxycycline (rld‐doxycycline), however, has not been investigated. The objective was to review the response and development of EGFRi‐ and MEKi‐induced rash under therapy with rld‐doxycycline.

Patients and method

A retrospective review of all patients treated with rld‐doxycyline 40 mg once daily between September 2011 and June 2012 for papulopustular rash. Rash development and severity (according to the Common Terminology Criteria of Adverse Events V4.0) were assessed.

Results

Seventeen patients (13 men, 4 women) were treated with rld‐doxycycline while receiving EGFRi [monoclonal antibodies (mab) n = 8, tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKi) n = 7] or MEKi (n = 2). In 47% (n = 8) the rash was reduced by at least one grade, in 29% (n = 5) the rash was stabilized, 24% (n = 4) did not profit from the treatment. All patients treated with an EGFR‐TKi or a MEKi profited of the rld‐doxycycline. All patients who experienced deterioration were on treatment with an EGFR‐mab.

Conclusions

Rld‐doxycyline can improve EGFR‐TKi‐ and MEKi‐induced rash severity. Its effectiveness appears to be inferior to doxycycline 200 mg/day in more severe cases and in EGFR‐mab‐induced rash, but due to the advantageous side‐effect profile, rld‐doxycycline should be considered as a possible treatment option for papulopustular rash. Prospective, randomized trials are necessary to confirm these findings.
Changes in C‐reactive protein in patients with moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis switched to adalimumab therapy after suboptimal response to etanercept, methotrexate or phototherapy
Authors: Strober B.E. , Poulin Y. , Teller C. , Wang Y. , Williams D.A. , Goldblum O.M.
Published: January 2014

Background

Psoriasis treatment can lower levels of the inflammatory biomarker C‐reactive protein (CRP).

Objective

Evaluate CRP changes in patients with chronic plaque psoriasis who switched to adalimumab following suboptimal response to previous therapies.

Methods

C‐reactive protein was measured at screening and after 16 weeks of adalimumab treatment following discontinuation of previous therapies: etanercept (substudy E; n = 77), methotrexate (substudy M; n = 38) or narrow‐band ultraviolet B phototherapy (substudy P; n = 27). Associations of CRP with baseline characteristics and efficacy measures were evaluated.

Results

Median CRP change at the final visit was −0.3 mg/L overall and −0.4, −0.3 and −0.3 mg/L in substudies E, M and P respectively. Clinical response [Physician Global Assessment (PGA) ‘clear’ or ‘minimal’] was associated with greater CRP reductions vs. no response (PGA ‘mild’ or worse) overall (−0.4 vs. −0.3 mg/L) and in substudies E (−0.4 vs. −0.1 mg/L) and M (−0.5 vs. −0.2 mg/L), but not P (−0.1 vs. −0.4 mg/L). CRP decreases were, respectively, −0.4 and −0.3 mg/L in patients with and without a history of psoriatic arthritis and −0.1, −0.3 and −0.6 mg/L in normal weight, overweight and obese patients, respectively. CRP decreases after 16 weeks correlated positively (β = 0.004) with percentage change in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI; P = 0.0398) and negatively (β = −0.360) with baseline CRP (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

C‐reactive protein levels decreased during adalimumab therapy in patients with psoriasis who experienced suboptimal response to previous therapies. Clinical response was associated with greater CRP reductions overall and in substudies E and M, but not P. CRP reductions correlated with percentage reductions in PASI.
Controlled infection of Poecilia reticulata Peters (guppy) with Tetrahymena by immersion and intraperitoneal injection
Authors: Sharon G , Pimenta‐Leibowitz M , Vilchis M C L , Isakov N , Zilberg D
Published: January 2014

Tetrahymena is a protozoan parasite, which infects guppy, Poecilia reticulata Peters, and causes substantial economical losses in commercial farms worldwide. Studies of guppy infected by Tetrahymena require standardized infection protocols. The LD50 for Tetrahymena infection of guppies by intraperitoneal (IP) injection was calibrated, and the level obtained was 946 parasites per fish. Guppy infection with Tetrahymena by immersion, imitating the natural route of infection via the integument, was studied under normal or stress conditions. Exposure to cold and netting (CNI) and to cold only (CI) followed by immersion exposure to 10 000 Tetrahymena per mL resulted in 22.5% and 19.2% mortality, respectively, as compared to 14.2% and 10% in groups that were netted only (NI) or non‐stressed (I). Histopathology revealed that immersion infection resulted in a systemic infection. Lysozyme levels, measured 3 weeks after infection, were significantly higher in the CNI group (288 μg per mg protein) compared with CI‐, NI‐ and I‐treated groups (94.5, 64 and 62.3 μg mg−1, respectively). There was no evident parasite immobilization activity in body homogenates, suggesting no development of acquired immunity. Re‐infection by IP injection revealed no increase in protection in any of the treatment groups, mortality range of 56.3–75%, higher than in the non‐exposed control (40.6% mortality).
Recovery of Hafnia alvei from diseased brown trout, Salmo trutta L., and healthy noble crayfish, Astacus astacus (L.), in Bulgaria
Authors: Orozova P , Sirakov I , Chikova V , Popova R , Al‐Harbi A H , Crumlish M , Austin B
Published: January 2014

Hafnia alvei was isolated in Bulgaria from healthy noble crayfish, Astacus astacus (L.), and then from farmed diseased brown trout, Salmo trutta L., with signs of haemorrhagic septicaemia. The isolates were identified initially with conventional phenotyping and commercial Merlin Micronaut and API 20E rapid identification systems, followed by sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene. Hafnia alvei Bt1, Bt2 and Aa4 were of low virulence to rainbow trout and brown trout, although cytotoxicity was demonstrated by Bt1 and Bt2, but not by Aa4.