bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lactobacillus mudanjiangensis sp. nov., Lactobacillus songhuajiangensis sp. nov. and Lactobacillus nenjiangensis sp. nov., isolated from Chinese traditional pickle and sourdough
Authors: Gu Chun Tao , Li Chun Yan , Yang Li Jie , Huo Gui Cheng
Published: August 2013

Three Gram-stain-positive bacterial strains, 11050T, 7-19T and 11102T, were isolated from traditional pickle and sourdough in Heilongjiang Province, China. These bacteria were characterized by a polyphasic approach, including 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, pheS gene sequence analysis, rpoA gene sequence analysis, dnaK gene sequence analysis, fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) analysis, determination of DNA G+C content, DNA–DNA hybridization and an analysis of phenotypic features. Strain 11050T belonged to the

Lactobacillus plantarum

species group and shared 98.0–98.4 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities and 84.7–88.9 % dnaK gene sequence similarities with type strains of

Lactobacillus plantarum subsp. plantarum

,

Lactobacillus plantarum subsp. argentoratensis

,

Lactobacillus pentosus

,

Lactobacillus paraplantarum

,

Lactobacillus fabifermentans

and

Lactobacillus xiangfangensis

and had 75.9–80.7 % pheS gene sequence similarities and 90.7–92.5 % rpoA gene sequence similarities with

Lactobacillus plantarum subsp. plantarum

LMG 6907T,

Lactobacillus plantarum subsp. argentoratensis

LMG 9205,

Lactobacillus pentosus

LMG 10755T,

Lactobacillus paraplantarum

LMG 16673T,

Lactobacillus fabifermentans

LMG 24284T and

Lactobacillus xiangfangensis

3.1.1T, respectively. Strain 7-19T was phylogenetically related to

Lactobacillus thailandensis

,

Lactobacillus pantheris

and

Lactobacillus sharpeae

, having 94.1–96.7 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities, 71.5–82.3 % pheS gene sequence similarities and 71.2–83.4 % rpoA gene sequence similarities with type strains of

Lactobacillus thailandensis

,

Lactobacillus pantheris

and

Lactobacillus sharpeae

, respectively. Strain 11102T was phylogenetically related to

Lactobacillus oligofermentans

,

Lactobacillus suebicus

,

Lactobacillus vaccinostercus

and

Lactobacillus hokkaidonensis

. Strain 11102T had 99.2 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity, 81.3 % pheS gene sequence similarity and 96.1 % rpoA gene sequence similarity with

Lactobacillus oligofermentans

LMG 22743T, respectively. Strain 11102T shared 96.0–96.8 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities, 73.3–81.0 % pheS gene sequence similarities and 74.6–76.9 % rpoA gene sequence similarities with type strains of

Lactobacillus suebicus

,

Lactobacillus vaccinostercus

and

Lactobacillus hokkaidonensis

, respectively. Based upon the data from polyphasic characterization obtained in the present study, three novel species, Lactobacillus mudanjiangensis sp. nov., Lactobacillus songhuajiangensis sp. nov. and Lactobacillus nenjiangensis sp. nov., are proposed and the type strains are 11050T ( = LMG 27194T = CCUG 62991T), 7-19T ( = LMG 27191T = NCIMB 14832T = CCUG 62990T) and 11102T ( = LMG 27192T = NCIMB 14833T), respectively.
An empirical framework of financial characteristics and outperformance in troubled economic times
Authors: Hua Nan , Xiao Qu , Yost Elizabeth
Published: August 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the financial characteristics associated with outperformance of US public restaurant firms in challenging economic times and the empirical measure of outperformance proposed herein.

Design/methodology/approach

This study utilizes a Logit model and considers the relevant financial variables in annual deviation forms to explore an empirical model that explains financial outperformance in troubled economic times for the restaurant industry.

Findings

The results of the study indicate that larger market share, asset turnover, and profit margin, combined with lower leverage, BM, earnings variance, and size, in addition to franchise utilization, appear to produce collectively a fine balance for success in difficult economic times.

Research limitations/implications

This paper does not address the fine balance between short‐term financial performance and long‐term sustainability. Further, the employed contemporaneous modeling framework may limit generality of findings of this paper.

Originality/value

This study provides systematic evidence on an empirical framework linking financial characteristics and outperformance of restaurant firms in difficult economic times. Its results have timely and significant implications for practitioners, researchers and other parties of interest.
The influence of the number of presented symptoms in product‐claim direct‐to‐consumer advertising on behavioral intentions
Authors: Nikki Lee‐Wingate Sooyeon , Xie Ying
Published: August 2013

Purpose

In order to improve the effectiveness of product‐claim direct‐to‐consumer advertising (DTCA), the current research examines the effect of a presentational element – the number of treatable symptoms for the advertised medical condition featured in the ad – on consumers' intentions to seek treatment.

Design/methodology/approach

Ninety‐five participants recruited at a mall in the northeastern US provided data on behavioral and attitudinal intentions regarding a product‐claim print DTCA for an antidepressant.

Findings

Featuring a high (vs low) number of symptoms improved the effectiveness of the product‐claim DTCA. Seeing more symptoms led to heightened perceptions of informativeness, lower persuasive intent, and higher intentions to discuss the advertised ailment and the advertised drug with the doctor. Perceptions of disease prevalence mediated this influence. The perceived impact of each symptom featured in the DTCA was controlled across experimental conditions.

Research limitations/implications

This research contributes to the healthcare marketing literature by demonstrating how managing a presentational element in DTCA influences consumers' metacognitive processing of the health information and consequently their intentions to engage in health‐related behaviors.

Practical implications

Within the regulatory boundaries, pharmaceutical marketers may wish to increase the number of treatable symptoms to feature in their product‐claim DTCA in order to improve the effectiveness.

Social implications

Within the regulatory boundaries, pharmaceutical marketers may wish to increase the number of treatable symptoms to feature in their product‐claim DTCA in order to improve the effectiveness.

Originality/value

This research builds on the extant literature of examining consumer perceptions of DTCA, and suggests a practical and metacognitive means to improve consumer perceptions to ultimately enhance DTCA effectiveness.
Understanding, attitude and environment
Authors: Walsh Elaine , Anders Katie , Hancock Sally
Published: August 2013

Purpose

This paper is written to add to current knowledge of the views of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) discipline early career researchers (ECRs) about creativity. It aims to explore their understandings of and attitudes towards creativity, as well as their perceptions of which environmental factors facilitate creative research. By discussing the findings in the context of earlier work, the paper seeks to challenge developers to re‐examine current practice in developing creativity by suggesting a broader and deeper approach than is currently often taken.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reports on a qualitative study which collected data from semi‐structured in‐depth interviews with STEM researchers. A thematic analysis was performed on the data.

Findings

This research demonstrates that young researchers have a complex range of perceptions of creativity, and that negative attitudes towards it are common in the STEM environment. Three key environmental facilitators of creativity were also uncovered which are: a positive research environment; sufficient constructive communication; and time and space to be creative. It is argued that more emphasis should be placed upon optimising the environment for creative work to occur.

Originality/value

Whereas most previous work has focussed on experienced scientists, this paper outlines the complex and important issue of creativity in the context of STEM ECRs. It offers those who wish to support such researchers an accessible summary and recommendations of how to improve practice in the development of creativity. In particular, the paper argues that placing a greater emphasis upon optimising the environment will enhance the impact of creativity development efforts.
Risk‐based dependability approach to maintenance performance measurement
Authors: Söderholm Peter , Norrbin Per
Published: August 2013

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to describe how a risk‐based dependability approach can be used to link maintenance performance measurement and management to overall objectives within an organization. Design/methodology/approach – The applied study approach is a case study at Trafikverket (the Swedish Transport Administration). Qualitative data were collected through interviews, workshops and document studies, while quantitative data was collected through data bases. As a framework for analysis, international standards within the risk and dependability areas were applied. Finally, the conclusions of the study were verified by key informants. Findings – Through the proposed risk‐based dependability approach, critical availability goals are communicated with and involve top management. The approach also contributes to enhanced data and information quality by pinpointing critical data and information for dependability management activities. The proposed availability indicator can be used to monitor the effect of dependability management activities aimed at different indenture levels of the infrastructure and related to the responsibility of different hierarchical levels of the organization, e.g. different maintenance echelons. Practical implications – The proposed approach strengthens the internal control of an organization by supporting the achievement of: objectives that are aligned with and support the mission; operations with an effective and efficient use of resources; reliable operational and financial reporting; compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Originality/value – By integrating risk management in the work with availability goals included in the balanced scorecard, a more holistic and risk‐based dependability management practice is achieved.
Intelligent performance measures for condition‐based maintenance
Authors: Juuso Esko K. , Lahdelma Sulo
Published: August 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a comprehensive approach to efficiently integrate maintenance and operation by combining process and condition monitoring data with performance measures.

Design/methodology/approach

Intelligent stress, condition and health indicators have been developed for control and condition monitoring by combining generalised moments and norms with efficient nonlinear scaling. The data analysis resulting nonlinear scaling functions can also be used to handle performance measures used for management. The generalised norms provide limits for an advanced statistical process control.

Findings

The data‐driven analysis methodology demonstrates that management‐oriented indicators can be presented in the same scale as intelligent condition and stress indices. Control, condition monitoring, maintenance and performance monitoring are represented as interactive feedback loops.

Practical implications

Performance analysis can be based on real‐time information by using various stress, condition and health indices as inputs. Similar approaches can be used for outputs: quality indices, harmonised indices, key performance indicators, process capability indices and overall equipment effectiveness. Since consistent linguistic explanations based on nonlinear scaling are available for all these indices, the analysis can be further deepened with LE modelling. Efficient monitoring with intelligent indices provides a good basis for control and condition‐based maintenance and performance monitoring.

Originality/value

The paper extends the nonlinear scaling methodology and linguistic equations to intelligent performance measures. The methodology provides a consistent way to also represent all information with linguistic terms.
Building a horrific collection: a bibliography of horror reference resources
Authors: “Clare” Castleberry Margaret
Published: August 2013

Purpose ‐ This annotated bibliography serves as a guide for collection development and evaluation and readers' advisory tools for librarians and for any interested reader. The purpose of this paper is to locate and describe print and electronic resources pertaining to the horror genre for scholars and patrons, as well as librarians collecting in this area.Design/methodology/approach ‐ This bibliography surveys reference sources published in the past ten years, in order to provide an overview of publications focusing on the horror genre, and serves as a guide to understand this genre.Findings ‐ Reference resources in horror encompass the genre specifically and broadly, usually focusing on classic fiction and short stories in earlier years and fiction novels, magazines and online magazines in recent years.Originality/value ‐ The resources covered in this article survey both long‐standing reference resources as well as newer publications in the field. While not necessarily comprehensive, it provides patrons, researchers and librarians with a survey of useful resources, with factual information as well as a critical perspective in the discipline.
Organizational learning culture and leader‐member exchange quality
Authors: Islam Talat , ur Rehman Khan Saif , Norulkamar Ungku Bt. Ahmad Ungku , Ahmed Ishfaq
Published: August 2013

Purpose

In this global era every organization aims to retain its key workers through salary, incentives, rewards and recognition. Organizational learning culture and leaders' support are amongst those aspects that have not been focused on extensively by organizations to retain their key employees. The present study aims to investigate the relationship between organizational learning culture, leader‐member exchange quality, organizational commitment and turnover intention.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 415 employees working in Malaysian banks were approached on the basis of convenience sampling. Respondents were asked about leader‐member exchange, organizational learning culture, organizational commitment and their intention to leave the organization through a questionnaire‐based survey.

Findings

Leader‐member exchange, organizational learning culture and organizational commitment are found to correlate with each other. Furthermore, structural equation modeling confirms that organizational commitment performs the role of mediator between organizational learning culture and turnover intention.

Research limitations/implications

HR managers should know the importance of leaders' support and learning environment, as these affect employees' level of commitment, which ultimately reduces their intentions to leave the organization. Limitations are also discussed.

Originality/value

The current study elucidates the importance of learning culture for both employers and employees. It produces several unique findings and managerial takeaways for building a better organizational environment for employees to learn and stay with the organization.
Natural regeneration potential of abandoned agricultural land in the southern Gadarif Region, Sudan: implications for conservation
Authors: Sulieman Hussein M.
Published: August 2013

The present study seeks to provide a contribution to the understanding of vegetation regrowth on abandoned agricultural land by investigating the impacts of the previous cultivation period and the duration of the fallow on the subsequent natural regeneration in terms of vegetation composition, structure and diversity. The results of the study show that both factors have significant effects on the subsequent regeneration of plant species and thus the vegetation development in the southern Gadarif Region, Sudan. The oldest abandoned farmlands were recolonized by tree/shrub species, whereas recently abandoned ones are covered with herbaceous vegetation. There is a general tendency regarding the number of species to decrease with an increase in the period of cultivation. The plant species diversity pattern shows domination of herbaceous species with some scattered woody species. Vegetation changes due to land abandonment may have implications for the conservation of plant species diversity and composition of fauna harboured in the region. Although natural regeneration could be recommended as means of restoring natural vegetation that previously dominated that region, the current regeneration capacity might not be sufficient to reach the climax vegetation except for some pockets, which received more regenerative resources.
Corporate Transparency and Firm Performance: Evidence from Venture Firms Listed on the Korean Stock Market
Authors: Kim Younghwan , Lee Jungwoo , Yang Taeyong
Published: August 2013

This study proposes a new corporate transparency index comprising four sub‐indices: financial, governance, operational, and social transparency. Using our index, we examine the effects of corporate transparency on firm value and the profitability of 162 Korean venture firms. Results show that corporate transparency is positively associated with firm profitability. Financial transparency is positively related to firm profitability and negatively associated with firm value. Firms with a greater level of governance transparency have a higher firm value and a lower return on assets. Operational transparency is negatively related to firm value. Social transparency is positively associated with firm value and profit.
Fire and gap dynamics over 300 years in an old‐growth temperate forest
Authors: McEwan Ryan W. , Pederson Neil , Cooper Adrienne , Taylor Josh , Watts Robert , Hruska Amy
Published: August 2013

Questions

What are the long‐term patterns of wildfire occurrence and gap dynamics in an old‐growth deciduous forest? Are there temporal patterns in fire and gap dynamics over the last ca. 300 yrs? How is drought related to fire occurrence? Are there temporal interactions between gap dynamics and fire?

Location

Lilley Cornett Woods Appalachian Research Station, Southeastern Kentucky,USA.LCW; 37°05′ N, 83°00′ W.

Methods

We cross‐dated and analysed annually‐resolved tree‐ring data from 35 tree cross‐sections in an old‐growth deciduous forest to reconstruct historical fire and canopy disturbance and explore connections among these processes. Canopy disturbance patterns as indicated by tree growth release within this collection [fire history collection: (FHC)] were compared to cores from 26 trees collected in 1983 for the purposes of climate reconstruction [climate collection: (CC)].

Results

Initiation dates in theFHCranged from ca. 1670 to 1925. Thirty‐three fire scars were identified from 1678 to 1956. The mean interval between fire events was 9.3 yrs, and there were many more fires after 1800 than before that date. Gap dynamics, as reconstructed through growth release detection, were relatively constant through theFHCrecord and were supported by a similar result in theCC. The mean number of years between detected release events was 5.2 yrs. Many individual trees, and the mean growth chronology for theFHC, indicate that many oak trees exhibit growth release after long periods of suppression and, after a final release, exhibit a step‐change in growth rate suggesting canopy accession.

Conclusions

Fire and gap dynamics occurred through much of the last ca. 350 yrs in this old‐growth forest. There was not evidence to support that these two processes were temporally linked – gap dynamics were ostensibly independent of fire occurrence. Even so, we posit that these two processes may have a synergistic effect on long‐term dynamics, wherein fire ‘filters’ the seedling pool and gap openings provide canopy accession opportunities. We also note several instances where release events are associated with stand‐wide growth increases suggesting large‐scale canopy accession. These events could influence the overstorey composition of the forest for centuries.
5‐Lipoxygenase mRNA and Protein Isoforms
Authors: Ochs Meike J. , Suess Beatrix , Steinhilber Dieter
Published: August 2013

5‐Lipoxygenase (5‐LO) catalyses the two initial steps in the biosynthesis of leukotrienes, a group of inflammatory lipid mediators derived from arachidonic acid. An increased level of leukotrienes is associated with chronic inflammatory diseases such as asthma or atherosclerosis. In this MiniReview, we focus on recent findings regarding alternative splice variants of 5‐LO with a special emphasis on two potential protein isoforms expressed in human B‐lymphocytes which might be of interest as new drug targets.
Acute chest syndrome is associated with single nucleotide polymorphism‐defined beta globin cluster haplotype in children with sickle cell anaemia
Authors: Bean Christopher J. , Boulet Sheree L. , Yang Genyan , Payne Amanda B. , Ghaji Nafisa , Pyle Meredith E. , Hooper W. Craig , Bhatnagar Pallav , Keefer Jeffrey , Barron‐Casella Emily A. , Casella James F. , DeBaun Michael R.
Published: August 2013

Genetic diversity at the human β‐globin locus has been implicated as a modifier of sickle cell anaemia (SCA) severity. However, haplotypes defined by restriction fragment length polymorphism sites across the β‐globin locus have not been consistently associated with clinical phenotypes. To define the genetic structure at the β‐globin locus more thoroughly, we performed high‐density single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) mapping in 820 children who were homozygous for the sickle cell mutation (HbSS). Genotyping results revealed very high linkage disequilibrium across a large region spanning the locus control region and the HBB (β‐globin gene) cluster. We identified three predominant haplotypes accounting for 96% of the βS‐carrying chromosomes in this population that could be distinguished using a minimal set of common SNPs. Consistent with previous studies, fetal haemoglobin level was significantly associated with βS‐haplotypes. After controlling for covariates, an association was detected between haplotype and rate of hospitalization for acute chest syndrome (ACS) (incidence rate ratio 0·51, 95% confidence interval 0·29–0·89) but not incidence rate of vaso‐occlusive pain or presence of silent cerebral infarct (SCI). Our results suggest that these SNP‐defined βS‐haplotypes may be associated with ACS, but not pain or SCI in a study population of children with SCA.
Peneciraistin C induces caspase‐independent autophagic cell death through mitochondrial‐derived reactive oxygen species production in lung cancer cells
Authors: Pan Xiaohong , Liu Desheng , Wang Juan , Zhang Xiuli , Yan Miaomiao , Zhang Dehai , Zhang Jinjin , Liu Weizhong
Published: August 2013

Peneciraistin C (Pe‐C) is a novel spiroketal compound isolated from the saline soil derived fungus Penicillium raistrickii. Our previous study showed that Pe‐C exerted a potent cytotoxic effect on many kinds of cancer cell lines, especially on human lung cancer A549 cells. Here, we report the anticancer mechanisms of Pe‐C in a variety of lung cancer cells. The results showed that Pe‐C induced caspase‐independent autophagic cell death and elevated mitochondrial‐derived reactive oxygen species levels. Interestingly, if autophagy was blocked by 3‐methyladenine or Atg5 siRNA, Pe‐C triggered a shift from autophagic cell death into caspase‐dependent apoptotic cell death. In addition, cotreatment with the antioxidant N‐acetyl‐l‐cysteine or Mito‐TEMPO could effectively reverse the effect of the enhanced reactive oxygen species production, which in turn almost completely prevented the cell death induced by Pe‐C. Thus, this study provided new insights into the mechanisms underlying Pe‐C‐mediated cell death, which indicated that Pe‐C could be a potential drug candidate for therapy of lung cancers.
Population‐based survey of refractive error among school‐aged children in rural northern China: the Heilongjiang eye study
Authors: Li Zhijian , Xu Keke , Wu Shubin , Lv Jia , Jin Di , Song Zhen , Wang Zhongliang , Liu Ping
Published: August 2013

Background

The prevalence of refractive error in the north of China is unknown. The study aimed to estimate the prevalence and associated factors of refractive error in school‐aged children in a rural area of northern China.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Participants or Samples

The cluster random sampling method was used to select the sample.

Methods

A total of 1700 subjects of 5 to 18 years of age were examined. All participants underwent ophthalmic evaluation. Refraction was performed under cycloplegia. Association of refractive errors with age, sex, and education was analysed.

Main Outcome Measures

The main outcome measure was prevalence rates of refractive error among school‐aged children.

Results

Of the 1700 responders, 1675 were eligible. The prevalence of uncorrected, presenting, and best‐corrected visual acuity of 20/40 or worse in the better eye was 6.3%, 3.0% and 1.2%, respectively. The prevalence of myopia was 5.0% (84/1675, 95% CI, 4.8%–5.4%) and of hyperopia was 1.6% (27/1675, 95% CI, 1.0%–2.2%). Astigmatism was evident in 2.0% of the subjects. Myopia increased with increasing age, whereas hyperopia and astigmatism were associated with younger age. Myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism were more common in females. We also found that prevalence of refractive error were associated with education. Myopia and astigmatism were more common in those with higher degrees of education.

Conclusion

This report has provided details of the refractive status in a rural school‐aged population. Although the prevalence of refractive errors is lower in the population, the unmet need for spectacle correction remains a significant challenge for refractive eye‐care services.
Local excision of rectal cancer followed by radical surgery because of poor prognostic features does not compromise the long term oncologic outcome
Authors: Gagliardi G. , Newton T. R. , Bailey H. R.
Published: August 2013

Aim

The outcome of patients undergoing full‐thickness local excision (LE) of rectal cancers may be compromised if poor prognostic features are found in the LE specimen. Our aim was to evaluate the long‐term results of radical surgery performed after LE because poor prognostic factors are identified.

Method

Patients with biopsy‐proven rectal cancer who had undergone full‐thickness LE followed by radical surgery because of a positive margin, T stage ≥3, lymphovascular invasion, poor differentiation or mucinous histology were identified from a prospective database. Their records were retrospectively reviewed and follow up was updated.

Results

Between 1995 and 2003, 17 patients underwent LE followed by radical surgery because of poor prognostic features. Combined chemotherapy and radiotherapy was given to 11 (65%) patients before radical surgery. Patients underwent radical surgery after a median of 14 (range: 0–40) weeks from LE. Nine underwent a low anterior resection and eight an abdominoperineal resection. At the time of radical surgery, residual disease was found in six (35%) patients (in lymph nodes in three; intramural in two; and both lymph nodes and intramural in one). Four of the patients with residual disease had undergone neoadjuvant therapy before radical surgery. The mean follow up was 110 (95% CI: 92–129) months. Recurrence‐free survival at 10 years was 88%. There was no case of local recurrence, and two patients died of metastatic disease.

Conclusion

In this series patients who underwent early radical surgery because of poor prognostic features found at LE had good overall and cancer‐specific long‐term survival. Even after neoadjuvant therapy, more than a third of patients had residual disease at the time of radical surgery. We therefore recommend radical surgery with neoadjuvant therapy when poor prognostic features are found at LE.
Q&A
Authors: Lafley A.G. , Norman Don , Brown Tim , Martin Roger
Published: August 2013

The Procter & Gamble leader describes how P&G uses design thinking to cope with problems that fall far outside the realm of product or package design.

The author of The Design of Everyday Things suggests that design thinkers have existed for millennia, and that many of them were not designers.

IDEO's CEO and president speaks out on creating design leaders in business, the value of apprenticeships, and the design issues facing our species.

Writer, strategist, advisor to CEOs, dean of the Rotman School of Management: however you want to describe him, Roger Martin has looked at design thinking from all the angles.
Stepping Up: Beyond Design Thinking
Authors: McCullagh Kevin
Published: August 2013

Let's get beyond the buzzwords and the snappy taglines and figure out how to use and improve our capabilities.
Theaters for Design Thinking
Authors: Inns Tom
Published: August 2013

Using DT in all manner of new areas is feasible. For businesses that want to explore the possibilities, this author facilitates a variety of workshops.
New genetic variants in the CCR5 gene and the distribution of known polymorphisms in Omani population
Authors: Al‐Mahruqi S. H. , Zadjali F. , Koh C. Y. , Balkhair A. , Said E. A. , Al‐Balushi M. S. , Hasson S. S. , Al‐Jabri A. A.
Published: August 2013

C–C motif chemokine receptor‐5 (CCR5) is a pro‐inflammatory receptor that binds to chemokines and facilitates the entry of the R5 strain of HIV‐1. A number of polymorphisms were identified within the promoter and coding regions of the CCR5 gene, some of which have been found to affect the protein expression and thus receptor function. Although several CCR5 polymorphisms were shown to vary widely in their distribution among different ethnic populations, there has been no study addressing the potential variants of the CCR5 gene in the Omani population. The aim of this study was to identify the polymorphic sites that exist within the CCR5 gene in Omanis. Blood samples were collected from 89 Omani adult individuals, and genomic DNA was amplified by polymerase chain reaction and sequenced to identify the polymorphic sites. The distribution of the detected variants was examined and compared with the previously published data. Four new indels were detected of 32 variable positions, −2973A/–, −2894A/–, −2827TA/– and −2769T/–, and all were located in the 5′UTR. Furthermore, two new mutations, −2248G/A and +658A/G, were observed for the first time; the −2248G/A was detected in the intron 1 region in one subject and +658A/G in the coding region of the CCR5 in another subject. In silico analysis showed that the novel variations in the 5′UTR may have effects on the transcription factor binding sites. Therefore, this study demonstrates the presence of two new SNPs and four novel indels in the CCR5 gene in the Omani population. Our findings support the wide spectrum of genetic diversity reported within the CCR5 gene region among different ethnic groups.
Tissue‐resident memory T cells
Authors: Shin Haina , Iwasaki Akiko
Published: August 2013

Tissues such as the genital tract, skin, and lung act as barriers against invading pathogens. To protect the host, incoming microbes must be quickly and efficiently controlled by the immune system at the portal of entry. Memory is a hallmark of the adaptive immune system, which confers long‐term protection and is the basis for efficacious vaccines. While the majority of existing vaccines rely on circulating antibody for protection, struggles to develop antibody‐based vaccines against infections such as herpes simplex virus (HSV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have underscored the need to generate memory T cells for robust antiviral control. The circulating memory T‐cell population is generally divided into two subsets: effector memory (TEM) and central memory (TCM). These two subsets can be distinguished by their localization, as TCM home to secondary lymphoid organs and TEM circulate through non‐lymphoid tissues. More recently, studies have identified a third subset, called tissue‐resident memory (TRM) cells, based on its migratory properties. This subset is found in peripheral tissues that require expression of specific chemoattractants and homing receptors for T‐cell recruitment and retention, including barrier sites such as the skin and genital tract. In this review, we categorize different tissues in the body based on patterns of memory T‐cell migration and tissue residency. This review also describes the rules for TRM generation and the properties that distinguish them from circulating TEM and TCM cells. Finally, based on the failure of recent T‐cell‐based vaccines to provide optimal protection, we also discuss the potential role of TRM cells in vaccine design against microbes that invade through the peripheral tissues and highlight new vaccination strategies that take advantage of this newly described memory T‐cell subset.
Paediatric gastrointestinal conditions and their oral implications
Authors: Crighton Alexander
Published: August 2013

Objectives

The paediatric dentist must be familiar with a range of medical problems which can affect the mouth or general health of children. Dental clinicians are ideally placed to help with the detection of a range of gastrointestinal issues and should know when to refer to the paediatric specialist for advice.

Methods

This article reviews the common gastrointestinal tract (GIT) conditions that can affect children reviewing the conditions, their usual treatments, and how they can influence the mouth and the oral environment. This article will review how the different conditions may produce oral symptoms and signs. The management of the oral problems and appropriate photographs are covered well in other texts and will not be included here.

Conclusion

The mouth is a specialised part of the GIT and can be involved in or affected by many of the diseases encountered in other GIT regions.
The influence of different forms of early childcare on children's emotional and behavioural development at school entry
Authors: Stein A. , Malmberg L.‐E. , Leach P. , Barnes J. , Sylva K. ,   the FCCC Team
Published: August 2013

Background

Over the past few decades there has been a dramatic increase in maternal employment and, as a result, an increase in the use of non‐maternal childcare in the early years. The purpose of this longitudinal study was to examine, in a large representative English sample, the influence of different forms of childcare on children's behavioural and emotional development around the age of school entry.

Methods

A sample of 991 families, originally recruited when the children were 3 months old, was assessed around school entry age at 51 months. The main outcome variable was the children's emotional and behavioural functioning, measured by questionnaire completed by both mothers and teachers. A range of repeated assessments were carried out at different time points, including direct observation of the quality of maternal caregiving and observations of the quality of non‐parental care, and amount of time spent in different forms of care.

Results

The strongest and most consistent influences on behaviour and emotional problems were derived from the home, including lower socio‐demographic status, poorer maternal caregiving, parental stress/maternal mental health problems, as well as child gender (being a boy). Non‐parental childcare had small effects on child outcome. One finding that did emerge was that children who spent more time in group care, mainly nursery care, were more likely to have behavioural problems, particularly hyperactivity.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that interventions to enhance children's emotional and behavioural development might best focus on supporting families and augmenting the quality of care in the home.
Methodology and Application of Hafnium Isotopes in Ilmenite and Rutile by MC‐ICP‐MS
Authors: Morisset Caroline‐Emmanuelle , Scoates James S. , Weis Dominique , Rahier André
Published: August 2013

The high abundances of the high field‐strength elements in ilmenite and rutile make these minerals particularly suitable for hafnium isotopic investigations. We present a technique for separating Hf by ion exchange chemistry from high‐TiO2 (> 40% m/m) minerals to achieve precise Hf isotopic composition analyses by MC (multiple collector)‐ICP‐MS. Following digestion and conversion to chlorides, the first elution column is used to separate iron and the rare earth elements, the second column is designed to separate most of the titanium from Hf, an evaporation step using HClO4 is then performed to remove any trace of HF in preparation for the third column, which is needed to eliminate any remaining trace of titanium. The modified chemistry helped to improve the yields from < 10 to > 78% as well as the analytical precision of the processed samples (e.g., sample 2033‐A1, 176Hf/177Hf = 0.282251 ± 25 before vs. 0.282225 ± 6 after). The technique was tested on a case study in which the Hf isotopic ratios of ilmenite and rutile (analysed prior to the chemistry improvement) were determined and permitted to evaluate that the origin of rutile‐bearing ilmenite deposits is from the same or similar magma than their, respectively, associated Proterozoic anorthosite massifs (Saint‐Urbain and Lac Allard) of the Grenville Province in Québec, Canada.
Effect of the alcohol consumption on osteocyte cell processes: a molecular imaging study
Authors: Maurel Delphine B. , Benaitreau Delphine , Jaffré Christelle , Toumi Hechmi , Portier Hugues , Uzbekov Rustem , Pichon Chantal , Benhamou Claude L. , Lespessailles Eric , Pallu Stéphane
Published: August 2013

We have previously shown microarchitectural tissue changes with cellular modifications in osteocytes following high chronic alcohol dose. The aim of this study was to assess the dose effect of alcohol consumption on the cytoskeleton activity, the cellular lipid content and modulation of differentiation and apoptosis in osteocyte. Male Wistar rats were divided into three groups: Control (C), Alcohol 25% v/v (A25) or Alcohol 35% v/v (A35) for 17 weeks. Bone mineral density (BMD) was assessed by DXA, osteocyte empty lacunae, lacunae surface, bone marrow fat with bright field microscopy. Osteocyte lipid content was analysed with transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and epifluorescence microscopy. Osteocyte apoptosis was analysed with immunolabelling and TEM. Osteocyte differentiation and cytoskeleton activity were analysed with immunolabelling and real time quantitative PCR. At the end of the protocol, BMD was lower in A25 and A35 compared with C, while the bone marrow lipid content was increased in these groups. More empty osteocyte lacunae and osteocyte containing lipid droplets in A35 were found compared with C and A25. Cleaved caspase‐3 staining and chromatin condensation were increased in A25 and A35 versus C. Cleaved caspase‐3 was increased in A35 versus A25. CD44 and phosphopaxillin stainings were higher in A35 compared with C and A25. Paxillin mRNA expression was higher in A35 versus A25 and C and sclerostin mRNA expression was higher in A35 versus C. We only observed a dose effect of alcohol consumption on cleaved caspase‐3 osteocyte immunostaining levels and on the number of lipid droplets in the bone marrow.
Identification of RAPD‐SCAR marker linked to white spot syndrome virus resistance in populations of giant black tiger shrimp, Penaeus monodon Fabricius
Authors: Dutta S , Biswas S , Mukherjee K , Chakrabarty U , Mallik A , Mandal N
Published: August 2013

White spot disease (WSD) caused by white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) creates severe epizootics in shrimp aquaculture industry worldwide. Despite several efforts, no such permanent remedy was yet developed. Selective breeding using DNA markers would be a cost‐effective strategy for long‐term solution of this problem. In the present investigation, out of 30 random primers, only one primer produced a statistically significant (P < 0.01) randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) marker of 502 bp, which provided a good discrimination between disease resistant and disease susceptible populations of Penaeus monodon from three geographical locations along the East coast of India. Because RAPD markers are dominant, a sequence characterized amplified region (SCAR) marker was developed by cloning and sequencing of 502 bp RAPD fragment, which generates a single 457 bp DNA fragment after PCR amplification only in the disease resistant shrimps. Challenge experiment was also conducted to validate this 457 bp SCAR marker, and the results suggested that the WSSV loads were 2.25 × 103 fold higher in disease susceptible than that in disease resistant shrimps using real‐time PCR. Therefore, this 457 bp DNA SCAR marker will be very valuable towards the development of disease‐free shrimp aquaculture industry.
Ranks Are Not Bypassed, Rituals Are Not Negated: The Dionysian Corpus on Return
Authors: Knepper Timothy
Published: August 2013

Modern readings of the Dionysian corpus often subordinate its hierarchical treatises to its theological treatises. Two unfortunate consequences follow: one, the thetic positions and aphairetic removals of the Divine Names and Mystical Theology bypass or transcend the hierarchical ranks and hierurgical rituals of the Celestial Hierarchy and Ecclesiastical Hierarchy. Second, the return to God occurs through apophatic abstraction rather than sacramental performance. This article interprets the Dionysian corpus differently, offering four arguments why Dionysian negative theology is not the means by which ranks and rituals are negated or abandoned but rather a means by which they are affirmed and accomplished.
Delivering high‐level food industry skills for future food security through Advanced Training Partnerships
Authors: Frazier R. A.
Published: August 2013

The UK Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council's (BBSRC) Advanced Training Partnerships (ATPs) initiative represents a significant investment in the provision of high‐level skills for the UK food industry sector to address global food security from farm to fork. This paper summarises the background, aims and scope of the Advanced Training Partnerships, their development so far, and offers a view on future directions and evaluation of impact.
Effects of High‐Dose Radiotherapy on Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators: An In Vivo Porcine Study
Authors: ZAREMBA TOMAS , JAKOBSEN ANNETTE R. , THØGERSEN ANNA M. , RIAHI SAM , KJÆRGAARD BENEDICT
Published: August 2013

Introduction

Although the effects of radiotherapy (RT) on implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) have been studied in vitro, and some information has been gathered from case reports and series, no in vivo experiments have previously been performed.

Methods

In vivo effects of photon RT applied directly to five modern ICD generators from different manufacturers implanted in pigs were studied. The devices were interrogated between and after increasing doses of ionizing radiation. Afterwards, the shock function was tested.

Results

All ICDs withstood fractionated irradiations with a cumulative dose of 18.5 gray (Gy) of 6 megavolt (MV) photons and 18.5 Gy of 18 MV photons and were still fully functional. Especially, no oversense was recorded. Induced ventricular fibrillation was detected and treated properly by shock therapy in all cases. However, one of the ICDs converted to back‐up mode later the same night.

Conclusion

The animal model is feasible for investigating RT effects on implanted cardiac devices. During irradiations with 37 Gy, one recoverable malfunction was present in the tested devices. Additional animal studies could provide supplementary evidence for treating ICD patients, including recommendations for reprogramming of the ICD during RT and avoidance of relocating the device.
Effects of Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy on Muscle Sympathetic Nerve Activity
Authors: KUNIYOSHI RICARDO R. , MARTINELLI MARTINO , NEGRÃO CARLOS E. , SIQUEIRA SÉRGIO F. , RONDON MARIA U. P. B. , TROMBETTA IVANI C. , KUNIYOSHI FATIMA H. S. , LATERZA MATEUS C. , NISHIOKA SILVANA A. D’ÓRIO , COSTA ROBERTO , TAMAKI WAGNER T. , CREVELARI ELIZABETH S. , PEIXOTO GISELLE DE LIMA , RAMIRES JOSÉ A. F. , KALIL ROBERTO
Published: August 2013

Introduction

Muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) is an independent prognostic marker in patients with heart failure (HF). Therefore, its relevance to the treatment of HF patients is unquestionable.

Objectives

In this study, we investigated the effects of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) on MSNA response at rest and during exercise in patients with advanced HF.

Methods

We assessed 11 HF patients (51 ± 3.4 years; New York Heart Association class III–IV; left ventricular ejection fraction 27.8 ± 2.2%; optimal medical therapy) submitted to CRT. Evaluations were made prior to and 3 months after CRT. MSNA was performed at rest and during moderate static exercise (handgrip). Peak oxygen consumption (VO2) was evaluated by means of cardiopulmonary exercise test. HF patients with advanced NYHA class without CRT and healthy individuals were also studied.

Results

CRT reduced MSNA at rest (48.9 ± 11.1 bursts/min vs 33.7 ± 15.3 bursts/min, P < 0.05) and during handgrip exercise (MSNA 62.3 ± 13.1 bursts/min vs 46.9 ± 14.3 bursts/min, P < 0.05). Among HF patients submitted to CRT, the peak VO2 increased (12.9 ± 2.8 mL/kg/min vs 16.5 ± 3.9 mL/kg/min, P < 0.05) and an inverse correlation between peak VO2 and resting MSNA (r = –0.74, P = 0.01) was observed.

Conclusions

In patients with advanced HF and severe systolic dysfunction: (1) a significant reduction of MSNA (at rest and during handgrip) occurred after CRT, and this behavior was significantly superior to HF patients receiving only medical therapy; (2) MSNA reduction after CRT had an inverse correlation with O2 consumption outcomes.
Subtle direct effects of rising atmospheric CO2 on insect eggs
Authors: KERR EMILY D. , PHELAN CONAN , WOODS H. ARTHUR
Published: August 2013

Ocean acidification is an important consequence of rising levels of atmospheric CO2. The chemistry of acidification is, however, general and may disturb pH in terrestrial systems. The present study examines the effects of rising CO2 on insect eggs, which may be vulnerable to acidification because they are small, have (at least initially) poorly developed physiological systems, and support important developmental events. Newly‐laid eggs of the moth Manduca sexta are exposed to levels of CO2 between 0 and 2200 p.p.m., in air, and effects on yolk pH, total developmental time, and survival are measured. Altered CO2 has no effect, over several hours, on the pH of egg yolk, suggesting that yolk fluids are well buffered. By contrast, there is a large developmental change in yolk pH. Eggs exposed to eight different levels of CO2 for the duration of development show a small but significant parabolic response in development time. Eggs develop fastest at intermediate levels of CO2, between 400 and 1200 p.p.m., and slower at 0, 1600 and 2000 p.p.m. These results suggest that future rises in CO2 may not have strong direct effects on insect development.
Narratives and Social Identity Formation Among Somalis and Post‐Enlargement Poles
Authors: Scuzzarello Sarah
Published: August 2013

The article examines the narratives of collective belonging among two migrant groups, Somalis and post‐enlargement Poles, who live in the London borough of Ealing (United Kingdom). In order to gain a better understanding of the processes of social identity formation, the article proposes a synthesis of a social identity approach, in particular the recent discursive developments in the field, with a political opportunity structure approach. Drawing upon these bodies of research, the article analyzes the understandings of collective identity among Somalis and post‐enlargement Poles according to three sets of social relationships: the group's relationship with the political environment; its relationship with other groups; and its relationship with people who share the same ascribed identity. The findings of the study confirm that social identity is shaped by not only intra‐ and intergroup cognitive elements but also by the political environment in which a group operates.