bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic features in mucoepidermoid carcinoma of major salivary glands with emphasis on tumour histologic grading
Authors: Katabi Nora , Ghossein Ronald , Ali Safina , Dogan Snjezana , Klimstra David , Ganly Ian
Published: July 2014

Aims

To compare the different grading systems of mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) and identify the most reliable and objective histopathologic features predictive of outcome.

Methods and results

Seventy‐two cases diagnosed as MEC were subjected to a meticulous histopathologic re‐review. 20 of 72 (28%) cases were originally misdiagnosed as MEC including 16 as high grade (HG). Among the 52 confirmed MEC, median follow up (FU) was 59 months. Mitosis (≥4/10 High Power Fields), necrosis, pleomorphism, focal keratinization, desmoplasia, and lymph node metastasis were associated with adverse disease specific survival (DSS) and recurrence free survival (RFS) (P < 0.002). In all grading systems, low and intermediate grade had similar DSS and RFS but much better outcome than HG (P < 0.007). All patients with tumour harboring low mitotic rate and no necrosis did not recur except for one patient with a positive margin. All cases with high mitotic rate and necrosis died or recurred.

Conclusions

The majority of previously diagnosed HG MEC cases are misclassified. There is no difference in outcome between low and intermediate grade in all grading schemes. Consideration should be given to stratify MEC based on relatively objective criteria such as mitosis and necrosis.
Burden of Stroke in Egypt: Current Status and Opportunities
Authors: Abd-Allah Foad , Moustafa Ramez Reda
Published: July 2014

Middle East and North Africa (MENA) countries have a diversity of populations with similar life style, dietary habits, and vascular risk factors that may influence stroke risk, prevalence, types, and disease burden. Egypt is the most populated nation in the Middle East with an estimated 85.5 million people. In Egypt, according to recent estimates, the overall prevalence rate of stroke is high with a crude prevalence rate of 963/100 000 inhabitants. In spite of disease burden, yet there is a huge evidence practice gap. The recommended treatments for ischemic stroke that are guideline include systematic supportive care in a stroke unit or stroke center is still deficient. In addition, the frequency of thrombolysis in Egypt is very low for many reasons; the major one is that the health insurance system is not covering thrombolysis therapy in nonprivate sectors so patients must cover the costs using their own personal savings; otherwise, they will not receive treatment. Another important factor is the pronounced delay in prehospital and in hospital management of acute stroke. Improvement of stroke care in Egypt should be achieved through multi and interdisciplinary approach including public awareness, physicians' education, and synergistic approach to stroke care with Emergency Medical System.
Consumer Protection in Postwar Canada: Role and Contributions of the Consumers' Association of Canada to the Public Policy Process
Authors: SADOVNIKOVA ANNA , MIKHAILITCHENKO ANDREY , SHAPIRO STANLEY J.
Published: July 2014

This article traces the contribution of the Consumers' Association of Canada (CAC) to the advancement of Canadian consumer protection legislation in the decades after World War II. The theory of the consumerism life cycle shows that the CAC as the spearhead of grassroots consumer activism in Canada was able to address effectively consumer concerns at both the administrative and policymaking levels of government. Analysis of the rise and fall of consumerism in post–WWII Canada from the perspective of the consumerism life cycle also might well have implications for the further development of that theory.
Suffering and transition strategies in adult patients attending a chronic pain management programme
Authors: Furnes Bodil , Natvig Gerd Karin , Dysvik Elin
Published: July 2014

Aims and objectives

To develop a deeper understanding of suffering and useful transition strategies in patients after participation in a chronic pain management programme.

Background

Chronic pain is a complex, multifaceted, individual experience. Limitations in patients' ability to perform their usual activities, as well as social isolation, are frequently reported. This condition may include a state of suffering that leads to challenges with transitions, for which support, guidance and achievement of useful strategies are needed.

Design

Qualitative study with a descriptive and explorative design from a phenomenological perspective.

Methods

A phenomenological–hermeneutic approach was used to analyse interviews with 12 participants in a group‐based cognitive–behavioural therapy management programme.

Results

Suffering from chronic pain means handling difficult thoughts and feelings. Expression of these thoughts and feelings through group support and therapeutic writing alleviates suffering. In addition, new perspectives through active involvement in the cognitive–behavioural therapy programme indicate a transition towards adaptation to the chronic pain situation.

Conclusion

Qualitative analysis of participation in a cognitive–behavioural therapy programme deepens our understanding of both patient suffering and helpful transition strategies towards adaptation. Group participation in the programme appeared to be useful in improving patients' ability to handle challenging experiences with transitions. It is essential that the patients play an active role in adaptive transitions by developing new perspectives and insight.

Relevance to clinical practice

It is an important activity for nurses or other healthcare workers to assist in the transition process so that the patient can take an active role to achieve alleviation. Focus on transition conditions seems to be helpful because it considers the factors that might facilitate successful transitions towards optimal adaptation.
Effect of Intracoronary Nitroprusside in Preventing No Reflow Phenomenon during Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: ZHAO SHIJIE , QI GUOXIAN , TIAN WEN , CHEN LING , SUN YUJIAO
Published: July 2014

Background

Adjunctive therapy with intracoronary nitroprusside (NTP) in primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) had controversial benefits in patients with ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Objectives

To evaluate the effect of intracoronary NTP on no reflow phenomenon (NR) and clinical outcomes in STEMI patients undergoing PPCI.

Methods

We searched the following databases without language or time limitation in January 2014: PubMed, EMBASE, CENTRAL, ISI Web of Science, and CNKI. Trials compared the effect of intracoronary NTP with control group (placebo or no NTP treatment) on NR in STEMI patients undergoing PPCI enrolled for analyzing.

Results

A total of 7 trials involving 781 patients were included into this meta‐analysis. Intracoronary NTP significantly reduced the incidence of thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) flow grade (TFG) ≤2 (RR: 0.47, 95% CI: 0.30–0.73, P = 0.001); the corrected TIMI frame count (CTFC) (WMD: −5.28, 95% CI: −6.79 to 3.78, P = 0.000) increased the events of myocardial blush grade (MBG) ≥2 (RR: 1.12, 95% CI: 1.01–1.24, P = 0.038), and reduced the incidence of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) (RR: 0.43, 95% CI: 0.27–0.70, P = 0.001). Although the events of the complete ST segment resolution (STR) did not reach statistical significance, there was a trend indicating improvement in the intracoronary NTP group (RR: 1.143, 95% CI: 0.97–1.34, P = 0.101).

Conclusions

Intracoronary NTP can significantly reduce the incidence of angiographic NR during PPCI, as well as the incidence of MACE. It seems to be a promising adjunctive therapy for NR during PPCI. (J Interven Cardiol 2014;27:356–364)
Local and temporal variations in near‐shore macrobenthic communities associated with submarine groundwater discharges
Authors: Encarnação  João , Leitão Francisco , Range Pedro , Piló David , Chícharo Maria Alexandra , Chícharo Luís
Published: July 2014

The influence of submarine groundwater discharges (SGD) on the dynamics of coastal ecosystems is receiving increasing scientific attention, although our knowledge of this issue still remains insufficient. Understanding the ecological response of coastal ecosystems to SGD dynamics is important in order to evaluate and predict changes in coastal communities. The aim of the present study was to characterize the effect of groundwater discharge on subtidal soft‐bottom macrofaunal assemblages in the south coast of Portugal (Algarve) at different times of the year and under different discharge regimes. Sediment macrofauna was sampled twice per season in spring and summer 2011 in two locations: one under influence of SGD (Olhos de Água) and one not under that influence (Arrifes). The results showed that differences in community structure between locations occurred mainly during spring, when the magnitude of groundwater discharge was higher. Several individual taxa were strongly associated with the SGD, particularly during spring: the polychaete families Magelonidae and Oweniidae; the isopod Cyathura carinata; and the bivalves Tellimya ferruginosa and Tellina fabula. Some of these taxa are already considered indicators of SGD, whereas others merit further investigation. The average similarity among samples was consistently larger in the location with SGD and the average similarity between the two locations was generally higher during spring, indicating that SGD promote stability in macrobenthic communities across time and space. SGD were also associated with higher values of Chlorophyll a (Chl a), fine sediments and total abundance of organisms (particularly suspension feeders). This suggests that differences between locations are associated with SGD and mediated by nutrient fluxes and sediment transport, or their interaction.
Strengths and weaknesses in the implementation of maternal and perinatal death reviews in Tanzania: perceptions, processes and practice
Authors: Armstrong C. E. , Lange I. L. , Magoma M. , Ferla C. , Filippi V. , Ronsmans C.
Published: July 2014

Objectives

Tanzania institutionalised maternal and perinatal death reviews (MPDR) in 2006, yet there is scarce evidence on the extent and quality of implementation of the system. We reviewed the national policy documentation and explored stakeholders’ involvement in, and perspectives of, the role and practices of MPDR in district and regional hospitals, and assessed current capacity for achieving MPDR.

Methods

We reviewed the national MPDR guidelines and conducted a qualitative study using semi‐structured interviews. Thirty‐two informants in Mara Region were interviewed within health administration and hospitals, and five informants were included at the central level. Interviews were analysed for comparison of statements across health system level, hospital, profession and MPDR experience.

Results

The current MPDR system does not function adequately to either perform good quality reviews or fulfil the aspiration to capture every facility‐based maternal and perinatal death. Informants at all levels express differing understandings of the purpose of MPDR. Hospital reviews fail to identify appropriate challenges and solutions at the facility level. Staff are committed to the process of maternal death review, with routine documentation and reporting, yet action and response are insufficient.

Conclusion

The confusion between MPDR and maternal death surveillance and response results in a system geared towards data collection and surveillance, failing to explore challenges and solutions from within the remit of the hospital team. This reduces the accountability of the health workers and undermines opportunities to improve quality of care. We recommend initiatives to strengthen the quality of facility‐level reviews in order to establish a culture of continuous quality of care improvement and a mechanism of accountability within facilities. Effective facility reviews are an important peer‐learning process that should remain central to quality of care improvement strategies.
A New Centroids Method for Ranking of Trapezoid Fuzzy Numbers
Authors: Abdullah Lazim , Azman Fateen Najwa
Published: July 2014

Ranking fuzzy numbers has become an important process in decision making. Many ranking methods have been proposed thus far and one of the commonly used is centroid of trapezoid. However, there is still no agreement on the method that can always provide a satisfactory solution to every situation. This paper aims to propose a new method of centroid using the circumcenter. The calculation for the circumcenter is derived from the trapezoidal fuzzy numbers and a series of the proposed steps. The proposed method offers a straightforward calculation by considering the centroid in each part of trapezoid to obtain a new centroid which eventually becomes the circumcenter. The Euclidean distance is used to calculate the ranking function from the circumcenter of centroids and the original point. A numerical example is given to illustrate the proposed method. At the end of this paper, a comparison of centroid method between the proposed method and other methods is presented.
Luminescence Properties of Dy3+ and Sm3+: Potassium Lithium Borate Glass
Authors: Aboud Haydar , Wagiran H. , Hussin R.
Published: July 2014

The present paper describes the spectral properties of Sm3+ (0.4 mol%) and Dy3+ (0.4 mol%) ions-doped 20Li2O–10K2O–70B2O3 glasses. X-ray diffraction method was use to confirm the amorphous phase of samples. The physical properties have been determined based on UV absorption spectra. The hypersensitive transition of Dy3+ and Sm3+ is found due to transition of (6F11/2,6H9/2) and (6F7/2), respectively. The emission bands of Dy3+: glass has shown around 572 nm, 612 nm and 646 nm; these emissions are attributed to the transitions of 4F9/2 ®6H15/2 (yellow), 4F9/2 - 6H13/2 (red) and 4F9/2 -6H11/2 (red). With regard to Sm3+: glass has three emission bands those have been generated from 4G5/2 ® 6H5/2 (616 nm), 4G5/2 ® 6H 7/2 (660 nm) and 4G5/2 ® 6H9/2 (719 nm) transitions. The current results promise several applications in optical fields such as UV-sensor, developing new color light sources and tunable visible lasers.
Keselarasan Personaliti dengan Pemilihan Program Sains Komputer dan Teknologi Maklumat
Authors: Ishak Azura , Rahmat Masura , Shahrani Shahrina , Zainal Noor Faridatul Ainun , Abd  Rahman Rohizah
Published: July 2014

This study discusses personality patterns of the students from computer science and information technology programs, personality congruence level in determining the selection of computer science and information technology’s program, factors of program selections in computer science and information technology and correlations between those factors and personality congruence level. The participants were 154 of first year students from 2012/2013 batch from Faculty of Information Science and Technology (FTSM), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM). The instrument used for this research is a set of online questionnaire (Self-Directed Search (SDS) – Form Easily, a translated version from Amla, (1984) and factor of program selections (Norlia Melawi, 2000). Iachan Congruence Index has been used to measure personality congruence degree. The results demonstrate that student personality pattern, SKI produces low congruence degree, meaning that the factors of program selection are weak, thus not reflecting the present program student had assigned with (what they get). However, program selections are done based on their own preferences and interests, also influenced by other factors such as environment, rewards and family. Despite that, all the factors are not related with their congruence personality degree.
Improving Shale Inhibitive Performance using Methyl Glucoside (MEG) in Potassium Chloride Mud
Authors: Ismail Issham , Ismail Ahmad Shamsul Izwan , Mamat Nur Suriani , Muhtar Muhamad Khairul Amin
Published: July 2014

Oil-based mud has shown a commended performance over the years in mitigating borehole instability especially when penetrating through a reactive shale zone which is known to have swelling and dispersion problems. However, the strict environmental regulations worldwide have limited the use of oil-based mud. Therefore the methyl glucoside, known as MEG, a specially formulated water-based mud has been introduced where its performance is close to the oil-based mud. This project studied the effect of using MEG in potassium chloride (MEG/KCl) mud in controlling shale swelling and dispersion. Five different concentrations (0, 5, 15, 25, and 35% by weight) were used in the hot rolling dispersion test. Besides, the rheological properties and fluid loss control were also tested as per the American Petroleum Institute – Recommended Practice – 13B (2009). The results showed that MEG/KCl mud was capable of improving the shale inhibitive performance to mitigate the shale swelling and dispersion problems. The higher concentration of MEG used such as 25% and 35%, the less shale would swell or disperse. However, the effectiveness of MEG was corresponding with clay content present in the shale.
A Review Study of Agarwood Oil and Its Quality Analysis
Authors: Ismail Nurlaila , Mohd Ali Nor Azah , Jamil Mailina , Rahiman Mohd Hezri Fazalul , Tajuddin Saiful Nizam , Taib Mohd Nasir
Published: July 2014

This paper presents an overview of analysis agarwood oil and its quality grading. The review suggested agarwood oil can be graded according to their chemical properties and so that there is a common standard recognized worldwide on grading the agarwood oil. Analysis based on chemical profiles is required to ensure that agarwood oil can be classified based on their respective classes or grades where the accurate results can be measured. Conventionally, the grading of agarwood oil is performed by trained human graders (sensory panels) depends on its physical appearance such as color, odor, high fixative and consumer perception. However, this method is limited due to human nose cannot accept many samples in one time and easily get fatigues especially when dealing with continuous production. The human sensory panel also limited in terms of subjectivity, poor reproducibility, time consumption and large labour expense. These are constraining factors in increasing agarwood oil trade and market penetration.
The Influence of Temperature Dependant Parameters in Plastic 0.0nd Metal Injection Molding using Taguchi Method
Authors: Wahid Zaliha , Muhamad Norhamidi , Abdullah Shahrir , A. Ghani Jaharah
Published: July 2014

Injection molding is a promising manufacturing process because of several advantages. Conventional injection molding was dominated by plastic as the raw material, but for better engineering properties feasibility, metal injection molding (MIM) has been given special attention. However, because of different properties and rheology, processing parameters for both processes must be treated accordingly. In this paper, the most influencing process parameter is identified for both processes using the state of the art Taguchi method. Simulation using Moldflow software is conducted with various process settings. From the study, it is proven that due to rheological behaviour, all the input parameters influence the MIM process while only one parameter is dominating during the injection molding of polypropylene.
Effect of Liquid Inhibitor De-dioTM on Dioxin-Furan Emission From Medical Waste Incineration Plant
Authors: Rashid M. , Ramli M. , Ammar M. , Noorhafizah K.
Published: July 2014

The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of liquid inhibitor (known as De-dioTM) on the emission of dioxin-furan from medical waste incineration plants.  Various concentrations of De-dioTM solutions were tested on the medical waste incinerator combustion chamber with an injection flow rate of 1.5 L/min. The sampling protocol of US EPA Method 23 was adopted to collect the sample using a modified US EPA Method 5 sampling train. The flue gas emission was collected before and during the injection of the chemical. The result showed that the De-dioTM was able to reduce or minimize the formation of dioxin-furan to meet its regulatory limits. The study illustrates that the higher the concentration of De-dioTM solution, the lower the dioxin-furan emission was observed in the flue gas.
Isolation and Characterization of Metal and Antibiotic Resistant Psychrotrophic Bacteria from Refrigerated Spoiled Food
Authors: Asadi Somayeh , Shahir Shafinaz , Ibrahim Zaharah , Yahya Adibah , Md Salleh Madihah , Ibrahim Norahim , Jamaluddin Haryati , Abdul Wahab Mohd Firdaus , Abd Manan Fazilah , Hussin Huszalina , Chun Shiong Chong , Wan Dagang Wan Rosmiza Zana
Published: July 2014

The aim of this study was to isolate and characterize psychrotrophic bacteria resistant to antibiotic and metals from cold samples of refrigerated spoiled food and ice. Two isolates named H and F were successfully isolated from samples incubated at 10°C and 4°C, respectively. Both isolates were able to grow at 4°C, 10°C, 20°C and 30°C and exhibited multidrug resistance to antibiotics (chloramphenicol, ampicillin, tetracycline and kanamycin). Bacteria H and F were then further tested for their resistance to metal ions such as Cd2+, Zn2+, Cr 6+ and As 3+   at concentrations ranging from 0-10 mM. The results of the test revealed that the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for isolate H was determined at 2 mM for all the metal ions. By comparison, isolate F was highly resistant to Cr6+, Cd2+ andZn2+ with MIC of 10 mM for these cations, while MIC for As3+ was 4 mM. The results of comparing 16S rRNA gens demonstrated that isolate F has 98% identity match with Bacillus sp. This strain could be used as a model microbial strain to understand the mechanisms of metal resistance and as a source of psychrotrophic enzymes with potential application for bioremediation of heavy metals in cold environments.
Acoustic Emission Signal Analysis and Artificial Intelligence Techniques in Machine Condition Monitoring and Fault Diagnosis: A Review
Authors: Ali Yasir Hassan , Abd Rahman Roslan , Raja Hamzah Raja Ishak
Published: July 2014

Acoustic Emission technique is a successful method in machinery condition monitoring and fault diagnosis due to its high sensitivity on locating micro cracks in high frequency domain. A recently developed method is by using artificial intelligence techniques as tools for routine maintenance. This paper presents a review of recent literature in the field of acoustic emission signal analysis through artificial intelligence in machine conditioning monitoring and fault diagnosis. Many different methods have been previously developed on the basis of intelligent systems such as artificial neural network, fuzzy logic system, Genetic Algorithms, and Support Vector Machine. However, the use of Acoustic Emission signal analysis and artificial intelligence techniques for machine condition monitoring and fault diagnosis is still rare. Although many papers have been written in area of artificial intelligence methods, this paper puts emphasis on Acoustic Emission signal analysis and limits the scope to artificial intelligence methods. In the future, the applications of artificial intelligence in machine condition monitoring and fault diagnosis still need more encouragement and attention due to the gap in the literature.
Improvement of 10-km Time-Trial Cycling With Motivational Self-Talk Compared With Neutral Self-Talk
Authors: Barwood Martin J. , Corbett Jo , Wagstaff Christopher R.D. , McVeigh Dan , Thelwell Richard C.
Published: July 2014

Purpose:

Unpleasant physical sensations during maximal exercise may manifest themselves as negative cognitions that impair performance, alter pacing, and are linked to increased rating of perceived exertion (RPE). This study examined whether motivational self-talk (M-ST) could reduce RPE and change pacing strategy, thereby enhancing 10-km time-trial (TT) cycling performance in contrast to neutral self-talk (N-ST).

Methods:

Fourteen men undertook 4 TTs, TT1–TT4. After TT2, participants were matched into groups based on TT2 completion time and underwent M-ST (n = 7) or N-ST (n = 7) after TT3. Performance, power output, RPE, and oxygen uptake (VO2) were compared across 1-km segments using ANOVA. Confidence intervals (95%CI) were calculated for performance data.

Results:

After TT3 (ie, before intervention), completion times were not different between groups (M-ST, 1120 ± 113 s; N-ST, 1150 ± 110 s). After M-ST, TT4 completion time was faster (1078 ± 96 s); the N-ST remained similar (1165 ± 111 s). The M-ST group achieved this through a higher power output and VO2 in TT4 (6th–10th km). RPE was unchanged. CI data indicated the likely true performance effect lay between 13- and 71-s improvement (TT4 vs TT3).

Conclusion:

M-ST improved endurance performance and enabled a higher power output, whereas N-ST induced no change. The VO2 response matched the increase in power output, yet RPE was unchanged, thereby inferring a perceptual benefit through M-ST. The valence and content of self-talk are important determinants of the efficacy of this intervention. These findings are primarily discussed in the context of the psychobiological model of pacing.
AKAP150-dependent cooperative TRPV4 channel gating is central to endothelium-dependent vasodilation and is disrupted in hypertension
Authors: Sonkusare Swapnil K. , Dalsgaard Thomas , Bonev Adrian D. , Hill-Eubanks David C. , Kotlikoff Michael I. , Scott John D. , Santana Luis F. , Nelson Mark T.
Published: July 2014

Local Ca
2+
signaling at specialized regions of endothelial cell–smooth muscle contact is impaired in hypertension.
A Novel (
S
)-6-Hydroxynicotine Oxidase Gene from Shinella sp. Strain HZN7
Authors: Qiu Jiguo , Wei Yin , Ma Yun , Wen Rongti , Wen Yuezhong , Liu Weiping
Published: July 2014

Nicotine is an important environmental toxicant in tobacco waste.
Shinella
sp. strain HZN7 can metabolize nicotine into nontoxic compounds via variations of the pyridine and pyrrolidine pathways. However, the catabolic mechanism of this variant pathway at the gene or enzyme level is still unknown. In this study, two 6-hydroxynicotine degradation-deficient mutants, N7-M9 and N7-W3, were generated by transposon mutagenesis. The corresponding mutant genes, designated
nctB
and
tnp2
, were cloned and analyzed. The
nctB
gene encodes a novel flavin adenine dinucleotide-containing (
S
)-6-hydroxynicotine oxidase that converts (
S
)-6-hydroxynicotine into 6-hydroxy-
N
-methylmyosmine and then spontaneously hydrolyzes into 6-hydroxypseudooxynicotine. The deletion and complementation of the
nctB
gene showed that this enzyme is essential for nicotine or (
S
)-6-hydroxynicotine degradation. Purified NctB could also convert (
S
)-nicotine into
N
-methylmyosmine, which spontaneously hydrolyzed into pseudooxynicotine. The kinetic constants of NctB toward (
S
)-6-hydroxynicotine (

K
m

= 0.019 mM,
k
cat
= 7.3 s
−1
) and nicotine (

K
m

= 2.03 mM,
k
cat
= 0.396 s
−1
) indicated that (
S
)-6-hydroxynicotine is the preferred substrate
in vivo
. NctB showed no activities toward the
R
enantiomer of nicotine or 6-hydroxynicotine. Strain HZN7 could degrade (
R
)-nicotine into (
R
)-6-hydroxynicotine without any further degradation. The
tnp2
gene from mutant N7-W3 encodes a putative transposase, and its deletion did not abolish the nicotine degradation activity. This study advances the understanding of the microbial diversity of nicotine biodegradation.
Evidence of Autoinducer-Dependent and -Independent Heterogeneous Gene Expression in Sinorhizobium fredii NGR234
Authors: Grote Jessica , Krysciak Dagmar , Schorn Andrea , Dahlke Renate I. , Soonvald Liina , Müller Johannes , Hense Burkhard A. , Schwarzfischer Michael , Sauter Margret , Schmeisser Christel , Streit Wolfgang R.
Published: July 2014

Populations of genetically identical
Sinorhizobium fredii
NGR234 cells differ significantly in their expression profiles of autoinducer (AI)-dependent and AI-independent genes. Promoter fusions of the NGR234 AI synthase genes
traI
and
ngrI
showed high levels of phenotypic heterogeneity during growth in TY medium on a single-cell level. However, adding very high concentrations of
N
-(3-oxooctanoyl-)-
l
-homoserine lactone resulted in a more homogeneous expression profile. Similarly, the lack of internally synthesized AIs in the background of the NGR234-Δ
traI
or the NGR234-Δ
ngrI
mutant resulted in a highly homogenous expression of the corresponding promoter fusions in the population. Expression studies with reporter fusions of the promoter regions of the quorum-quenching genes
dlhR
and
qsdR1
and the type IV pilus gene cluster located on pNGR234
b
suggested that factors other than AI molecules affect NGR234 phenotypic heterogeneity. Further studies with root exudates and developing
Arabidopsis thaliana
seedlings provide the first evidence that plant root exudates have strong effects on the heterogeneity of AI synthase and quorum-quenching genes in NGR234. Therefore, plant-released octopine appears to play a key role in modulation of heterogeneous gene expression.
RNA Sequencing Analysis of the Broad-Host-Range Strain Sinorhizobium fredii NGR234 Identifies a Large Set of Genes Linked to Quorum Sensing-Dependent Regulation in the Background of a
traI
and
ngrI
Deletion Mutant
Authors: Krysciak Dagmar , Grote Jessica , Rodriguez Orbegoso Mariita , Utpatel Christian , Förstner Konrad U. , Li Lei , Schmeisser Christel , Krishnan Hari B. , Streit Wolfgang R.
Published: July 2014

The alphaproteobacterium
Sinorhizobium fredii
NGR234 has an exceptionally wide host range, as it forms nitrogen-fixing nodules with more legumes than any other known microsymbiont. Within its 6.9-Mbp genome, it encodes two
N
-acyl-homoserine-lactone synthase genes (i.e.,
traI
and
ngrI
) involved in the biosynthesis of two distinct autoinducer I-type molecules. Here, we report on the construction of an NGR234-Δ
traI
and an NGR234-Δ
ngrI
mutant and their genome-wide transcriptome analysis. A high-resolution RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis of early-stationary-phase cultures in the NGR234-Δ
traI
background suggested that up to 316 genes were differentially expressed in the NGR234-Δ
traI
mutant versus the parent strain. Similarly, in the background of NGR234-Δ
ngrI
466 differentially regulated genes were identified. Accordingly, a common set of 186 genes was regulated by the TraI/R and NgrI/R regulon. Coregulated genes included 42 flagellar biosynthesis genes and 22 genes linked to exopolysaccharide (EPS) biosynthesis. Among the genes and open reading frames (ORFs) that were differentially regulated in NGR234-Δ
traI
were those linked to replication of the pNGR234
a
symbiotic plasmid and cytochrome
c
oxidases. Biotin and pyrroloquinoline quinone biosynthesis genes were differentially expressed in the NGR234-Δ
ngrI
mutant as well as the entire cluster of 21 genes linked to assembly of the NGR234 type III secretion system (T3SS-II). Further, we also discovered that genes responsible for rhizopine catabolism in NGR234 were strongly repressed in the presence of high levels of
N
-acyl-homoserine-lactones. Together with nodulation assays, the RNA-seq-based findings suggested that quorum sensing (QS)-dependent gene regulation appears to be of higher relevance during nonsymbiotic growth rather than for life within root nodules.
Differing Courses of Genetic Evolution of Bradyrhizobium Inoculants as Revealed by Long-Term Molecular Tracing in Acacia mangium Plantations
Authors: Perrineau M. M. , Le Roux C. , Galiana A. , Faye A. , Duponnois R. , Goh D. , Prin Y. , Béna G.
Published: July 2014

Introducing nitrogen-fixing bacteria as an inoculum in association with legume crops is a common practice in agriculture. However, the question of the evolution of these introduced microorganisms remains crucial, both in terms of microbial ecology and agronomy. We explored this question by analyzing the genetic and symbiotic evolution of two
Bradyrhizobium
strains inoculated on
Acacia mangium
in Malaysia and Senegal 15 and 5 years, respectively, after their introduction. Based on typing of several loci, we showed that these two strains, although closely related and originally sampled in Australia, evolved differently. One strain was recovered in soil with the same five loci as the original isolate, whereas the symbiotic cluster of the other strain was detected with no trace of the three housekeeping genes of the original inoculum. Moreover, the nitrogen fixation efficiency was variable among these isolates (either recombinant or not), with significantly high, low, or similar efficiencies compared to the two original strains and no significant difference between recombinant and nonrecombinant isolates. These data suggested that 15 years after their introduction, nitrogen-fixing bacteria remain in the soil but that closely related inoculant strains may not evolve in the same way, either genetically or symbiotically. In a context of increasing agronomical use of microbial inoculants (for biological control, nitrogen fixation, or plant growth promotion), this result feeds the debate on the consequences associated with such practices.
Chemical Structures of Streptococcus pneumoniae Capsular Polysaccharide Type 39 (CPS39), CPS47F, and CPS34 Characterized by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy and Their Relation to CPS10A
Authors: Bush C. Allen , Yang Jinghua , Yu Bingwu , Cisar John O.
Published: July 2014

Structural characterization of
Streptococcus pneumoniae
capsular polysaccharides (CPS) is a prerequisite for unraveling both antigenic and genetic relationships that exist between different serotypes. In the current study, comparative structural studies of
S. pneumoniae
CPS serogroup 10 (CPS10) were extended to include genetically related
S. pneumoniae
CPS34, CPS39, and CPS47F. High-resolution heteronuclear nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy confirmed the published structure of CPS34 and, in conjunction with glycosyl composition analyses, revealed the following repeat unit structures of the other serotypes, which have not been previously characterized:

Common and unique structural features of these polysaccharides, including different positions of O-acetylation, were unambiguously associated with specific genes in each corresponding
cps
locus. The only exception involved the gene designated
wcrC
, which is associated with the α1-2 transfer of Gal pyranoside (Gal
p
) to ribitol-5-phosphate in the synthesis of CPS10A, CPS47F, and CPS34 but with α1-1 transfer of Gal to ribitol-5-phosphate in the synthesis of CPS39. The corresponding gene in the
cps39
locus, although related to
wcrC
, more closely resembled a previously identified gene (i.e.,
wefM
) of
Streptococcus oralis
that is associated with α1-1 transfer of Gal
p
to ribitol-5-phosphate. These and other recent findings identify linkages from α-Gal
p
to ribitol-5-phosphate and from this residue to adjacent Gal furanoside (Gal
f
) as important sites of CPS structural and genetic diversity.
Evidence for a Hexaheteromeric Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase in Moorella thermoacetica
Authors: Mock Johanna , Wang Shuning , Huang Haiyan , Kahnt Jörg , Thauer Rudolf K.
Published: July 2014

Moorella thermoaceticacan grow with H2and CO2, forming acetic acid from 2 CO2via the Wood-Ljungdahl pathway. All enzymes involved in this pathway have been characterized to date, except for methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MetF). We report here that theM. thermoaceticagene that putatively encodes this enzyme,metF, is part of a transcription unit also containing the geneshdrCBA,mvhD, andmetV. MetF copurified with the other five proteins encoded in the unit in a hexaheteromeric complex with an apparent molecular mass in the 320-kDa range. The 40-fold-enriched preparation contained per mg protein 3.1 nmol flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD), 3.4 nmol flavin mononucleotide (FMN), and 110 nmol iron, almost as predicted from the primary structure of the six subunits. It catalyzed the reduction of methylenetetrahydrofolate with reduced benzyl viologen but not with NAD(P)H in either the absence or presence of oxidized ferredoxin. It also catalyzed the reversible reduction of benzyl viologen with NADH (diaphorase activity). Heterologous expression of themetFgene inEscherichia colirevealed that the subunit MetF contains one FMN rather than FAD. MetF exhibited 70-fold-higher methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase activity with benzyl viologen when produced together with MetV, which in part shows sequence similarity to MetF. Heterologously produced HdrA contained 2 FADs and had NAD-specific diaphorase activity. Our results suggested that the physiological electron donor for methylenetetrahydrofolate reduction inM. thermoaceticais NADH and that the exergonic reduction of methylenetetrahydrofolate with NADH is coupled via flavin-based electron bifurcation with the endergonic reduction of an electron acceptor, whose identity remains unknown.
Accessory breast tissue mimicking pedunculated lipoma
Authors: Husain Musharraf , Khan Sabina , Bhat Ashraf , Hajini Firdoos
Published: July 2014

Accessory breast tissue is an uncommon condition which occurs in 0.4–6% of women. It is mostly located in the axilla where it can cause diagnostic difficulty, especially if it is unilateral and large. Usually it is bilateral and presents as an asymptomatic mass during pregnancy or lactation. The diagnosis of ectopic breast tissue is important as it can undergo the same pathological changes that occur in a normal breast, such as mastitis, fibrocystic disease and carcinoma. We present a case of a large right-sided accessory breast in a 32-year-old woman that was clinically diagnosed as pedunculated lipoma. However, subsequent histopathological examination proved it to be an accessory breast tissue with lactational changes.
Quantification of the Hawthorne effect in hand hygiene compliance monitoring using an electronic monitoring system: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Srigley Jocelyn A , Furness Colin D , Baker G Ross , Gardam Michael
Published: July 2014

Background

The Hawthorne effect, or behaviour change due to awareness of being observed, is assumed to inflate hand hygiene compliance rates as measured by direct observation but there are limited data to support this.

Objective

To determine whether the presence of hand hygiene auditors was associated with an increase in hand hygiene events as measured by a real-time location system (RTLS).

Methods

The RTLS recorded all uses of alcohol-based hand rub and soap for 8 months in two units in an academic acute care hospital. The RTLS also tracked the movement of hospital hand hygiene auditors. Rates of hand hygiene events per dispenser per hour as measured by the RTLS were compared for dispensers within sight of auditors and those not exposed to auditors.

Results

The hand hygiene event rate in dispensers visible to auditors (3.75/dispenser/h) was significantly higher than in dispensers not visible to the auditors at the same time (1.48; p=0.001) and in the same dispensers during the week prior (1.07; p<0.001). The rate increased significantly when auditors were present compared with 1–5 min prior to the auditors’ arrival (1.50; p=0.009). There were no significant changes inside patient rooms.

Conclusions

Hand hygiene event rates were approximately threefold higher in hallways within eyesight of an auditor compared with when no auditor was visible and the increase occurred after the auditors’ arrival. This is consistent with the existence of a Hawthorne effect localised to areas where the auditor is visible and calls into question the accuracy of publicly reported hospital hand hygiene compliance rates.
Lithium and sodium diffusion in solid electrolyte materials of AM2(PO4)3(A = Li, Na, M = Ti, Sn and Zr)
Authors: Shi J. J. , Yin G. Q. , Jing L. M. , Guan J. , Wu M. P. , Zhou Y. L. , Lou H. L. , Wang Zhiguo
Published: July 2014

Electrolytes with a high ionic conductivity are the prerequisite for the success of solid state rechargeable ion batteries. In this paper, density functional theory (DFT) calculations are applied in combination with a climbing-image nudged elastic band (CI-NEB) method to obtain the diffusion barriers of the lithium (Li) and sodium (Na) in stoichiometric AM 2( PO 4)3 (A = Li, Na, M = Ti, Sn and Zr) compounds. In the AM 2( PO 4)3, Li and Na ions occupy the interstitial sites, M1, which is coordinated by a trigonal antiprism of oxygen, and M2, which has a distorted eight-fold coordination. Results show that the diffusion barriers are closely related with the average bond length of A–O bond when the atom A occupies the M2 site in the AM 2( PO 4)3 compounds, and the diffusion barriers decrease with increasing the average bond length. Among the various types of the AM 2( PO 4)3 compounds, the AM 2( PO 4)3 has a good potential for solid electrolytes due to its low diffusion barriers for the Li and Na.
Mechanisms for plasma etching of RRAM SiO2 with diblock copolymer selectivity
Authors: Ge Jie , Yang Yi , Li Xiao-Ning , Ren Tianling
Published: July 2014

To minimize the critical dimension of resistive switching random access memory (RRAM), good anisotropy and selectivity with diblock copolymer are required for silicon dioxide etching. Inductively coupled plasma (ICP) etcher using CHF 3/ H 2 mixture is used for effective etching of SiO 2. In this paper, a commercial software CFD-ACE+ was used to simulate reactor scale and feature scale model of SiO 2, diblock copolymer and Pt . Etch properties of SiO 2 at different chamber conditions were discussed. It was found that etch rate increased at the expense of selectivity as ICP power increased, which was the opposite trend for pressure. Selectivity and anisotropy are achieved at neutral to ion flux ratio 100:1. Moreover, the appropriate overetch time for SiO 2 layer to Pt layer was discussed.
Flip-flop detachment tectonics at nascent passive margins in SE Afar
Authors: Geoffroy Laurent , Le Gall Bernard , Daoud Mohamed Ahmed , Jalludin Mohamed
Published: July 2014

We propose a two-stage tectonic evolution of SE Afar in Djibouti leading to the complex development of highly asymmetric conjugate margins. From
c
. 8.5 to
c
. 2 Ma, an early mafic crust developed, associated in the upper crust with synmagmatic growth faults dipping dominantly to the SW. After an erosional stage, a new detachment fault system developed from
c
. 2 Ma with an opposite sense of motion (i.e. to the NE), during an amagmatic extensional event. In the Asal area, break-up occurred after
c
. 0.8 Ma along the footwall of an active secondary detachment fault rooted at depth above the lithospheric necking zone. This evolution suggests that flip-flop detachment tectonics is developed during extension at passive margins, in connection with the dynamics of the melting mantle and the associated magma plumbing of the crust.
A Tale of Two Countries
Authors: Gal-Ezer Judith , Stephenson Chris
Published: July 2014

This article tells a story of K-12 computer science in two different countries. These two countries differ profoundly in culture, language, government and state structure, and in their education systems. Despite these differences, however, they share the pursuit of excellence and high standards in K-12 education. In Israel, curriculum is determined at the national level. The high-school computer science curriculum has been in place for more than 20 years and is offered in all schools as an elective similar to biology, chemistry, and physics. The picture in the United States is more complex and therefore less amenable to generalization. Because educational policy is set at the state and sometimes even at the school district level, access to computer science courses and the content of those courses can vary even for schools within the same district. This article will describe the development of the curricula/standards in both countries and the current situation, focusing on common issues and challenges in areas such as equity and teacher training.
Noncoding RNAs and Epigenetic Mechanisms During X-Chromosome Inactivation
Authors: Gendrel Anne-Valerie , Heard Edith
Published: July 2014

In mammals, the process of X-chromosome inactivation ensures equivalent levels of X-linked gene expression between males and females through the silencing of one of the two X chromosomes in female cells. The process is established early in development and is initiated by a unique locus, which produces a long noncoding RNA, Xist. The Xist transcript triggers gene silencing in cis by coating the future inactive X chromosome. It also induces a cascade of chromatin changes, including posttranslational histone modifications and DNA methylation, and leads to the stable repression of all X-linked genes throughout development and adult life. We review here recent progress in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in the initiation of Xist expression, the propagation of the Xist RNA along the chromosome, and the cis-elements and trans-acting factors involved in the maintenance of the repressed state. We also describe the diverse strategies used by nonplacental mammals for X-chromosome dosage compensation and highlight the common features and differences between eutherians and metatherians, in particular regarding the involvement of long noncoding RNAs.
New Insights into Mycoviruses and Exploration for the Biological Control of Crop Fungal Diseases
Authors: Xie Jiatao , Jiang Daohong
Published: July 2014

Mycoviruses are viruses that infect fungi. A growing number of novel mycoviruses have expanded our knowledge of virology, particularly in taxonomy, ecology, and evolution. Recent progress in the study of mycoviruses has comprehensively improved our understanding of the properties of mycoviruses and has strengthened our confidence to explore hypovirulence-associated mycoviruses that control crop diseases. In this review, the advantages of using hypovirulence-associated mycoviruses to control crop diseases are discussed, and, as an example, the potential for Sclerotinia sclerotiorum hypovirulence-associated DNA virus 1 (SsHADV-1) to control the stem rot of rapeseed (Brassica napus) is also introduced. Fungal vegetative incompatibility is likely to be the key factor that limits the wide utilization of mycoviruses to control crop diseases; however, there are suggested strategies for resolving this problem.
Free Convection Nanofluid Flow in the Stagnation-Point Region of a Three-Dimensional Body
Authors: Farooq Umer , Xu Hang
Published: July 2014

Analytical results are presented for a steady three-dimensional free convection flow in the stagnation point region over a general curved isothermal surface placed in a nanofluid. The momentum equations inx- andy-directions, energy balance equation, and nanoparticle concentration equation are reduced to a set of four fully coupled nonlinear differential equations under appropriate similarity transformations. The well known technique optimal homotopy analysis method (OHAM) is used to obtain the exact solution explicitly, whose convergence is then checked in detail. Besides, the effects of the physical parameters, such as the Lewis number, the Brownian motion parameter, the thermophoresis parameter, and the buoyancy ratio on the profiles of velocities, temperature, and concentration, are studied and discussed. Furthermore the local skin friction coefficients inx- andy-directions, the local Nusselt number, and the local Sherwood number are examined for various values of the physical parameters.
Facile Synthesis of Carbon‐Coated Zn2SnO4 Nanomaterials as Anode Materials for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Ji Xiaoxu , Huang Xintang , Zhao Qinghuai , Wang Aihua , Liu Xuyan
Published: July 2014

Carbon‐coated Zn2SnO4 nanomaterials have been synthesized by a facile hydrothermal method in which as‐prepared Zn2SnO4 was used as the precursor and glucose as the carbon source. The structural, morphological, and electrochemical properties were investigated by means of X‐ray (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and electrochemical measurement. The first discharge/charge capacity of carbon‐coated Zn2SnO4 was about 1248.8 mAh/g and 873.2 mAh/g at a current density of 200 mA/g in the voltage range of 0.05 V–3.0 V, respectively, corresponding to Coulombic efficiency of 69.92%. After 40 cycles, the capacity retained 400 mAh/g, which is much better than bare Zn2SnO4.