bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modelling the cross‐contamination of Listeria monocytogenes in pork during bowl chopping
Authors: Jiang Ronghua , Wang Xiang , Wang Wen , Liu Yangtai , Du Jianping , Cui Yang , Zhang Chunyan , Dong Qingli
Published: November 2017

This study has developed a predictive model for the cross‐contamination of pork by Listeria monocytogenes during bowl chopping. The transfer rates of L. monocytogenes were measured in sixteen chopping scenarios based on practical work. Meanwhile, contaminated bowl chopper was cleaned with either a dry rag (DR), warm water (WW) or 70% ethanol + water (EW), respectively. It was showed that significant differences (P < 0.05) were observed among the three cleaning methods on the reduction of L. monocytogenes, the greatest log reduction being achieved by EW. Moreover, the model introduced by a previous study, predicting cross‐contamination of L. monocytogenes during meat slicing, was improved and validated in this study. Verification results showed that the improved model was acceptable for predicting L. monocytogenes cross‐contamination during pork chopping with coefficients of determination (R2 > 0.82), accuracy factors (Af < 1.44), bias factors (Bf < 1.42), and root mean square error (RMSE < 0.99). Furthermore, the modified model might provide an effective tool for assessing the risk of the cross‐contamination of meat products.
Recruitment to adult habitats in terrestrial hermit crabs on the coast of Ishigakijima Island, Ryukyu Archipelago, Japan
Authors: Hamasaki Katsuyuki , Fujikawa Shunsuke , Iizuka Chikako , Sanda Tetsuya , Tsuru Takuma , Imai Hideyuki , Kitada Shuichi
Published: November 2017

Terrestrial hermit crabs in the family Coenobitidae (genera Coenobita and Birgus) are distributed in tropical and subtropical regions. They occupy various habitats ranging from shore to inland forests, and the two shore‐dwelling species, Coenobita rugosus and C. violascens, possess different distributional characteristics on Ishigakijima Island, Ryukyu Archipelago, Japan. Coenobita rugosus is distributed throughout the coast of the island and is abundant in beach areas, whereas C. violascens has mainly been found in river mouth areas. However, very little is known about the habitats used by the early life stages of coenobitid crabs because identifying the species of recently landed early juveniles is difficult. We tested whether the species compositions of early juveniles of coenobitids differed between beach and river mouth sites on Ishigakijima Island. We collected and identified the early stage coenobitids using PCR–RFLP techniques. A total of 576 early juveniles of five Coenobita species were collected, of which 0.7% were C. brevimanus, 7.3% were C. cavipes, 0.2% were C. purpureus, 70.1% were C. rugosus, and 21.7% were C. violascens. The early juveniles of Birgus latro were not found. The early juveniles of C. rugosus occurred at both beach and river mouth sites, and they were abundant at beach sites. The early juveniles of C. violascens were only found at river mouth sites. These findings indicate that C. rugosus and C. violascens complete their life cycles on land near the localities where they land. The early juveniles of the inland‐dwelling species, C. cavipes, were also mainly collected from river mouth sites, which suggested that juveniles of C. cavipes selected landing sites near river mouth areas and then migrated into the inland forests, passing through riverside areas. Our results highlighted the importance of river mouth areas for recruitment to adult habitats by some coenobitid species.
Toothbrushing behaviour and periodontal pocketing: An 11‐year longitudinal study
Authors: Joshi Shriraksha , Suominen Anna L. , Knuuttila Matti , Bernabé Eduardo
Published: November 2017

Aim

To explore the association between toothbrushing behaviour and change in periodontal pocketing among adults.

Methods

We pooled data from 1,025 adults, aged 30–89 years, who participated in two national surveys in Finland (Health 2000 and Health 2011, BRIF8901) and reported their toothbrushing frequency. A cumulative measure of regular toothbrushing was created by counting the number of times participants reported brushing twice or more daily across the two surveys (ranging from 0 to 2). The association between toothbrushing behaviour and the number of teeth with periodontal pocket depth (PPD) ≥4 mm over 11 years was assessed in linear regression models adjusting for confounders.

Results

There was a clear dose–response relationship between toothbrushing frequency (either at baseline or follow‐up) and change in number of teeth with PPD ≥ 4 mm. There was also evidence of a cumulative effect of regular toothbrushing on change in number of teeth with PPD ≥ 4 mm. Participants who reported brushing twice or more a day in both surveys developed 1.99 (95% CI: 1.02–2.95) fewer teeth with PPD ≥ 4 mm than those who did not report this behaviour in any survey.

Conclusion

This 11‐year prospective study showed that toothbrushing behaviour was associated with smaller increments in the number of teeth with periodontal pocketing.
Assessment of biologically aggressive, recurrent glandular odontogenic cysts for mastermind‐like 2 (MAML2) rearrangements: histopathologic and fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) findings in 11 cases
Authors: Greer Robert O. , Eskendri Jeffrey , Freedman Paul , Ahmadian Moni , Murakami‐Walter Aline , Varella‐Garcia Marileila
Published: November 2017

Background

Glandular odontogenic cyst (GOC) demonstrates a significant predilection toward localized biologic aggressiveness and recurrence. GOC shares certain histopathologic features with intraosseous mucoepidermoid carcinoma (IMEC). The current investigation evaluates a group of recurrent, biologically aggressive GOCs to determine whether any cases demonstrated unique histologic features or mastermind‐like2 (MAML2) rearrangements common to IMEC.

Methods

Microscopic slides from 11 previously diagnosed GOCs were stained with hematoxylin and eosin and assessed by 2 study participants for 10 classic histopathologic features required to establish a diagnosis of GOC. Cases were evaluated utilizing break‐apart fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis for the presence of MAML2 gene rearrangements. Clinical and demographic data on all patients were recorded.

Results

The mean age for patients included in the study was 55.27 years with a range of 36 to 72 years. The most common presenting symptom was a jaw expansion, and all cysts presented initially as a unilocular or multilocular radiolucency. Cysts displayed a minimum of 6 of 10 histologic parameters necessary for a diagnosis of GOC. One case demonstrated MAML2 rearrangements by FISH. That case also showed marked ciliation of cyst‐lining epithelial cells and extensive mucous‐secreting goblet cell proliferation.

Conclusion

Findings in the current study are in concert with previous investigations, and although this study finds only limited molecular evidence to support the premise that recurrent biologically aggressive GOCs are a precursor to IMEC, detection of MAML2 rearrangements in 1 case suggests that such a theoretic transition, while rare, is possible.
Vertical vs. horizontal transmission of the microbiome in a key disease vector, Ixodes pacificus
Authors: Kwan Jessica Y. , Griggs Reid , Chicana Betsabel , Miller Caitlin , Swei Andrea
Published: November 2017

Vector‐borne pathogens are increasingly found to interact with the vector's microbiome, influencing disease transmission dynamics. However, the processes that regulate the formation and development of the microbiome are largely unexplored for most tick species, an emerging group of disease vectors. It is not known how much of the tick microbiome is acquired through vertical transmission vs. horizontally from the environment or interactions with bloodmeal sources. Using 16S rRNA sequencing, we examined the microbiome of Ixodes pacificus, the vector of Lyme disease in the western USA, across life stages and infection status. We also characterized microbiome diversity in field and laboratory‐collected nymphal ticks to determine how the surrounding environment affects microbiome diversity. We found a decrease in both species richness and evenness as the tick matures from larva to adult. When the dominant Rickettsial endosymbiont was computationally removed from the tick microbial community, we found that infected nymphs had lower species evenness than uninfected ticks, suggesting that lower microbiome diversity is associated with pathogen transmission in wild‐type ticks. Furthermore, laboratory‐reared nymph microbiome diversity was found to be compositionally distinct and significantly depauperate relative to field‐collected nymphs. These results highlight unique patterns in the microbial community of I. pacificus that is distinct from other tick species. We provide strong evidence that ticks acquire a significant portion of their microbiome through exposure to their environment despite a loss of overall diversity through life stages. We provide evidence that loss of microbial diversity is at least in part due to elimination of microbial diversity with bloodmeal feeding but other factors may also play a role.
An ANMS‐NASPGHAN consensus document on esophageal and antroduodenal manometry in children
Authors: Rosen R. , Garza J. M. , Tipnis N. , Nurko S.
Published: November 2017

Background

Upper gastrointestinal symptoms in children are common and motility disorders are considered in the differential diagnosis. High resolution esophageal manometry (HRM) has revolutionized the study of esophageal physiology, and the addition of impedance has provided new insights into esophageal function. Antroduodenal motility has provided insight into gastric and small bowel function.

Purpose

This review highlights some of the recent advances in pediatric esophageal and antroduodenal motility testing including indications, preparation, performance, and interpretation of the tests. This update is the second part of a two part series on manometry studies in children (first part was on anorectal and colonic manometry [Neurogastroenterol Motil. 2016;29:e12944]), and has been endorsed by the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (NASPGHAN) and the American Neurogastroenterology and Motility Society (ANMS).
A network of jasmonate‐responsive bHLH factors modulate monoterpenoid indole alkaloid biosynthesis in Catharanthus roseus
Authors: Patra Barunava , Pattanaik Sitakanta , Schluttenhofer Craig , Yuan Ling
Published: November 2017

The pharmaceutically valuable monoterpene indole alkaloids (MIAs) in Catharanthus roseus are derived from the indole and iridoid pathways that respond to jasmonate (JA) signaling.

Two classes of JA‐responsive bHLH transcription factor (TF), CrMYC2 and BIS1/BIS2, are known to regulate the indole and iridoid pathways, respectively. However, upregulation of either one of the TF genes does not lead to increased MIA accumulation. Moreover, little is known about the interconnection between the CrMYC2 and BIS transcriptional cascades and the hierarchical position of BIS1/BIS2 in JA signaling.

Here, we report that a newly identified bHLH factor, Repressor of MYC2 Targets 1 (RMT1), is activated by CrMYC2 and BIS1, and acts as a repressor of the CrMYC2 targets. In addition, we isolated and functionally characterized the core C. roseus JA signaling components, including CORONATINE INSENSITIVE 1 (COI1) and JASMONATE ZIM domain (JAZ) proteins. CrMYC2 and BIS1 are repressed by the JAZ proteins in the absence of JA, but de‐repressed by the SCFCOI1 complex on perception of JA.

Our findings suggest that the repressors, JAZs and RMT1, mediate crosstalk between the CrMYC2 and BIS regulatory cascades to balance the metabolic flux in MIA biosynthesis.
Contrasting responses of crop legumes and cereals to nitrogen availability
Authors: Adams Mark A. , Buckley Thomas N. , Salter William T. , Buchmann Nina , Blessing Carola H. , Turnbull Tarryn L.
Published: November 2017

In nonagricultural systems, the relationship between intrinsic water‐use efficiency (WUEi) and leaf nitrogen (Narea) is known to be stronger for legumes than for nonlegumes. We tested whether these relationships are retained for major agricultural legumes and nonlegumes.

We compared the response to N nutrition of WUEi (and its component parts, photosynthesis (Asat) and stomatal conductance (gs)) for legumes Cicer arietinum, Glycine max, Lupinus alba and Vicia faba, nonlegume dicots Brassica napus and Helianthus annus, and nonlegume cereals Hordeum vulgare and Triticum aestivum.

Surprisingly, and in contrast to studied cereals and nonlegume dicots, Narea was positively related to photosynthesis in the legumes, explaining nearly half of the variance in Asat. WUEi was tightly coupled to Narea for agricultural legumes and nonlegume dicots, but not for cereal crops. Our analysis suggests that breeding efforts to reduce gs in legumes could increase WUEi by 120–218% while maintaining Asat at nonlegume values.

Physiologically informed breeding of legumes can enhance sustainable agriculture by reducing requirements for water and N.
The late Neogene rodent succession of the Guadix–Baza Basin (south‐eastern Spain) and its magnetostratigraphic correlation
Authors: Piñero Pedro , Agustí Jordi , Oms Oriol
Published: November 2017

In this paper a magnetostratigraphically calibrated biozonation of the Miocene–Pliocene continental record of the Guadix–Baza Basin (south‐eastern Spain) is presented. This biozonation is based on a rodent succession which ranges from the latest Miocene (c. 6 Ma) to the latest Pliocene (c. 2.6 Ma). A total of nine biozones have been defined for the late Miocene and Pliocene, all of them based on the range or concurrent‐range of rodent species: Apodemus gudrunae – Apocricetus alberti Zone, Apocricetus barrierei Zone, Paraethomys aff. abaigari Zone, Trilophomys Zone, Mimomys davakosi Zone, Dolomys adroveri Zone, Mimomys hassiacus Zone, Mimomys polonicus Zone and Kislangia ischus Zone. A magnetobiostratigraphical correlation has been established between these biozones and the standard ATNTS scale, on the basis of the palaeomagnetic analysis carried out on the sections of Negratín, Botardo‐1 and Gorafe. The correlation has been completed with previous palaeomagnetic analysis in the sections of Galera and Zújar. The magnetobiostratigraphical correlation here established indicates a late Messinian age for the Apodemus gudrunae – Apocricetus alberti Zone, a Zanclean age for the Apocricetus barrierei, Paraethomys aff. abaigari, Trilophomys and Mimomys davakosi zones and a Piazencian age for the Mimomys hassiacus, Mimomys polonicus and Kislangia ischus zones. The Dolomys adroveri Zone is mostly Zanclean in age, but its uppermost part belongs to the Piazencian. Therefore, unit MN13 is correlated with the late Messinian, MN14 is correlated with the early Zanclean, most of MN15 is correlated with the late Zanclean, while the uppermost part of MN15 and MN16 are correlated with the Piazencian.
Serum IgA/C3 and glomerular C3 staining predict severity of IgA nephropathy
Authors: Kawasaki Yukihiko , Maeda Ryo , Ohara Shinichiro , Suyama Kazuhide , Hosoya Mitsuaki
Published: November 2017

Background

The aim of this study was to determine whether serum immunoglobulin A/complement factor 3 (IgA/C3) ratio and glomerular C3 staining predict outcome in IgA nephropathy.

Methods

We collected data for 44 IgA nephropathy children treated with multi‐drug combination therapy. The children were retrospectively divided into four groups based on serum IgA/C3 ratio and glomerular C3 staining: group A, IgA/C3 ratio >2.68 (median) and glomerular C3 staining ≥2.0, n = 9; group B, IgA/C3 ratio >2.68 and glomerular C3 staining <2.0, n = 7; group C, IgA/C3 ratio <2.68 and glomerular C3 staining ≥2.0, n = 7; and group D, IgA/C3 ratio <2.68 and glomerular C3 staining <2.0, n = 21. Clinical features; pathology at the first and second renal biopsy and at the latest follow up; and prognosis were analyzed for the four groups.

Results

At the most recent follow up, urinary protein excretion, incidence of hematuria, and serum creatinine in group A were all higher than in group D. At the second biopsy, crescent absence/presence ratio; mesangial hypercellularity, segmental glomerulosclerosis or adhesion, endocapillary hypercellularity, and tubular atrophy/interstitial fibrosis as well as crescents and global glomerulosclerosis (MESTCG) score; and clonicity index in group A were higher than in group D. All patients in group D had normal urine, and the prevalence of persistent nephropathy in group A was higher than in group D.

Conclusions

Serum IgA/C3 ratio and glomerular C3 staining can predict outcome in IgA nephropathy.
Prognostic markers in congenital diaphragmatic hernia: Left ventricular diameter and pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Karpuz Derya , Giray Dilek , Celik Yalcin , Hallioglu Olgu
Published: November 2017

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate whether the outcome of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) in newborns can be predicted using left ventricular (LV) diameter and estimated pulmonary artery pressure.

Methods

Patients in the newborn unit in 2012–2016 were screened retrospectively. Echocardiographic measurements of 35 patients with isolated left lateral CDH and 27 healthy newborns were compared in the first 24 h of life.

Results

Mean LV end‐diastolic diameter (LVEDD) and end‐systolic diameter (LVESD), and LV ejection fraction were significantly lower in the CDH group. Moreover, tricuspid regurgitation (TR) and pulmonary regurgitation (PR) were significantly higher than in the controls (P < 0.001). Six CDH patients died within the next 40 days after birth. Mean LVEDD and LVESD were significantly lower in the CHD patients who died compared with those who were discharged (P < 0.001, P = 0.016). Also, mean TR and PR (P < 0.001) and the frequency of pulmonary hypertension (PH; P = 0.001) were significantly higher in these patients. On receiver operating characteristic analysis of the CDH non‐survivors, LVEDD < 11 mm (sensitivity, 100%; 95%CI: 87.9–100; specificity, 100%; 95%CI: 54.1–100) and TR > 3.5 m/s (sensitivity, 89.66%; 95%CI: 72.6–97.7; specificity, 100%; 95%CI: 54.1–100) were associated with poor prognosis.

Conclusions

Decrease in LVEDD and presence of PH are associated with poor prognosis. Also, PH was associated with mortality in CDH patients. Thus, outcome may be predicted on careful echocardiographic evaluation of the LV diameters and pulmonary pressure.
Health education needs of intimate partner violence survivors: Perspectives from female survivors and social service providers
Authors: Ferranti Dina , Lorenzo Dalia , Munoz‐Rojas Derby , Gonzalez‐Guarda Rosa M.
Published: November 2017

Objective

To explore the health education needs and learning preferences of female intimate partner violence (IPV) survivors in a social service agency located in South Florida, United States.

Design and Sample

An exploratory two‐phase sequential mixed‐methods study was completed through semistructured interviews with social service providers (n = 10), followed by a survey with predominately female IPV survivors (n = 122, 98.4%).

Measures

Data obtained from interviews with social service providers were analyzed through conventional thematic content analysis. Data from interviews were used in developing a health survey completed by IPV survivors and analyzed utilizing descriptive statistics, chi‐square tests and t tests.

Results

Three themes emerged from interviews including multidimensional health needs, navigating barriers to health care, and self‐improvement specific to survivors of intimate partner violence. Survey results indicated that depression and self‐esteem were the health education needs of highest priority. Demographic characteristics, including age and language use, were significantly associated to preferred methods of learning, p < .05.

Conclusions

IPV survivors present with various health education needs. Current study findings can inform public health nurses in developing interventions or health‐based programs for female IPV survivors in social service agency settings.
Social perspectives on the use of reference conditions in restoration of fire‐adapted forest landscapes
Authors: Urgenson Lauren S. , Nelson Cara R. , Haugo Ryan D. , Halpern Charles B. , Bakker Jonathan D. , Ryan Clare M. , Waltz Amy E. M. , Belote R. Travis , Alvarado Ernesto
Published: November 2017

As approaches to ecological restoration become increasingly large scale and collaborative, there is a need to better understand social aspects of restoration and how they influence land management. In this article, we examine social perspectives that influence the determination of ecological reference conditions in restoration. Our analysis is based on in‐depth interviews with diverse stakeholders involved in collaborative restoration of fire‐adapted forest landscapes. We conducted interviews with 86 respondents from six forest collaboratives that are part of the U.S. Forest Service's Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Program. Collaboratives use a variety of approaches to develop reference conditions, including historic, contemporary, and future scenarios. Historical conditions prior to European settlement (nineteenth century or “pre‐settlement” conditions), or prior to more recent grazing, logging, and exclusion of fire, were the predominant type of reference used in all sites. Stakeholders described benefits and limitations of reference conditions. Primary benefits include (1) providing a science‐based framework for bringing stakeholders together around a common vision; (2) gaining social understanding and acceptance of the underlying need for restoration; and (3) serving to neutralize otherwise value‐laden discussions about multiple, sometimes competing, resource objectives. Limitations stem from (1) concerns over social conflict when reference conditions are perceived to contradict other stakeholder values and interests, (2) differing interpretations of reference condition science, (3) inappropriate application or over‐generalization of reference information, and (4) limited relevance of historical references for current and future conditions in some ecosystems. At the same time, collaboratives are adopting innovative strategies to address conceptual and methodological limitations of reference conditions.
Diagnostic utility of surgical lung biopsies in elderly patients with indeterminate interstitial lung disease
Authors: Vaszar Laszlo T. , Larsen Brandon T. , Swanson Karen L. , Ryu Jay H. , Tazelaar Henry D.
Published: November 2017

Background and objective

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is increasingly diagnosed by clinical and computed tomography (CT) criteria; however, surgical lung biopsy (SLB) may still be required in patients who lack definite CT features of usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP). We reviewed a cohort of elderly patients who underwent SLB, to evaluate the benefit of SLB in diagnosing idiopathic interstitial pneumonia (IIP).

Methods

We searched the pathology records of Mayo Clinic for ambulatory patients at least 75 years old, who underwent SLB between 2000 and 2012 for indeterminate IIP. Histologic slides were reviewed and clinical data were extracted from the record.

Results

A total of 55 patients (35 male) were enrolled. Median (interquartile range) age was 77 (76–80) years. Forced vital capacity was 70 (61–76)% and diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide was 48 (42–54)% of predicted. In total, 37 (67%) patients had IPF, including 61% of those with HRCT findings inconsistent with UIP. Thirty‐day mortality was 10% and 90‐day mortality was 15%.

Conclusion

The high mortality rate of SLB complicates the risk–benefit analysis in elderly patients with IIP. The expected value of the SLB is probably highest when the HRCT features are inconsistent with UIP, due to the frequent (39%) retrieval of patterns other than UIP.
No indication of increased infection rates using low‐dose alemtuzumab instead of anti‐thymocyte globulin as graft‐versus‐host disease prophylaxis before allogeneic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Neumann Thomas , Schneidewind Laila , Thiele Thomas , Pink Daniel , Schulze Meike , Schmidt Christian , Krüger William
Published: November 2017

Background

Alemtuzumab as part of the conditioning protocol is effective in reducing graft‐versus‐host disease (GvHD), but may be associated with increased infection rates, especially when using high doses (ie, 100 mg).

Methods

We performed a retrospective, single‐center, case‐control study analyzing the rates of neutropenic fever, cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivation, Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) reactivation, clinical manifest toxoplasmosis, and clinical manifest human herpesvirus‐6 (HHV6) infection using low‐dose alemtuzumab in comparison with anti‐thymocyte globulin (ATG) as GvHD prophylaxis before allogeneic stem cell transplantation. Forty‐four patients transplanted from unrelated donors between 2001 and 2012 were matched by age, diagnosis, and conditioning regimen and treated either with alemtuzumab 10 mg at day −2 (respectively, 20 mg in case of mismatch transplantation) or ATG. ATG Fresenius (10 mg/kg for 3 days) or Thymoglobulin (2 mg/kg for 3 days) were used.

Results

Rates of CMV reactivation, EBV reactivation, and clinical manifest HHV6 infection or toxoplasmosis did not differ significantly between both groups until 2 years after transplantation. No case of post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disorder was observed. Also, rates of neutropenic fever during inpatient treatment after transplantation did not differ significantly in both groups.

Conclusion

We saw no indication of increased infections rates when using low‐dose alemtuzumab as GvHD prophylaxis before allogeneic stem cell transplantation in this retrospective analysis.
Successful treatment of thrombotic microangiopathy associated with dengue infection: A case report and literature review
Authors: Nieto‐Ríos John Fredy , Álvarez Barreneche María Fernanda , Penagos Sara Catalina , Bello Márquez Diana Carolina , Serna‐Higuita Lina Maria , Ramírez Sánchez Isabel Cristina
Published: November 2017

Dengue infection has been associated with multiple renal complications, including glomerulonephritis, acute tubular necrosis, tubulointerstitial nephritis, and thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA), this last one being a rare complication of dengue, with only a few reported cases. TMA associated with dengue can be explained by an alteration in the activity of the enzyme ADAMTS13, leading to thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura; or it can be secondary to direct or indirect endothelial injury by the virus, which leads to hemolytic uremic syndrome. Here, we present a case of severe TMA, not related to ADAMTS13, which was clearly associated with dengue infection.
Status of tuberculosis‐related stigma and associated factors: a cross‐sectional study in central China
Authors: Yin Xiaoxv , Yan Shijiao , Tong Yeqing , Peng Xin , Yang Tingting , Lu Zuxun , Gong Yanhong
Published: November 2017

Objectives

Tuberculosis (TB) poses a significant challenge to public health worldwide. Stigma is a major obstacle to TB control by leading to delay in diagnosis and treatment non‐adherence. This study aimed to evaluate the status of TB‐related stigma and its associated factors among TB patients in China.

Methods

Cross‐sectional survey. Thus, 1342 TB patients were recruited from TB dispensaries in three counties in Hubei Province using a multistage sampling method and surveyed using a structured anonymous questionnaire including validated scales to measure TB‐related stigma. A generalised linear regression model was used to identify the factors associated with TB‐related stigma.

Results

The average score on the TB‐related Stigma Scale was 9.33 (SD = 4.25). Generalised linear regression analysis revealed that knowledge about TB (ß = −0.18, P = 0.0025), family function (ß = −0.29, P < 0.0001) and doctor–patient communication (ß = −0.32, P = 0.0005) were negatively associated with TB‐related stigma.

Conclusions

TB‐related stigma was high among TB patients in China. Interventions concentrating on reducing TB patients’ stigma in China should focus on improving patients’ family function and patients’ knowledge about TB.
Cargo crowding at actin‐rich regions along axons causes local traffic jams
Authors: Sood Parul , Murthy Kausalya , Kumar Vinod , Nonet Michael L. , Menon Gautam I. , Koushika Sandhya P.
Published: November 2017

Steady axonal cargo flow is central to the functioning of healthy neurons. However, a substantial fraction of cargo in axons remains stationary up to several minutes. We examine the transport of precursors of synaptic vesicles (pre‐SVs), endosomes and mitochondria in Caenorhabditis elegans touch receptor neurons, showing that stationary cargo are predominantly present at actin‐rich regions along the neuronal process. Stationary vesicles at actin‐rich regions increase the propensity of moving vesicles to stall at the same location, resulting in traffic jams arising from physical crowding. Such local traffic jams at actin‐rich regions are likely to be a general feature of axonal transport since they also occur in Drosophila neurons. Repeated touch stimulation of C. elegans reduces the density of stationary pre‐SVs, indicating that these traffic jams can act as both sources and sinks of vesicles. This suggests that vesicles trapped in actin‐rich regions are functional reservoirs that may contribute to maintaining robust cargo flow in the neuron.

A video abstract of this article can be found at: Video S1; Video S2
Optimization of a full‐scale site to achieve total nitrogen removal through implementation of a denitrification‐submerged anoxic filter
Authors: Manzano I. , Dias J. S. , Cannon J. , Soares A.
Published: November 2017

A full‐scale wastewater treatment plant with a 5500 population equivalent was retrofitted with a pre‐denitrification‐submerged anoxic filter (SAnoF) in order to achieve new total nitrogen (TN) consent of 35 mg/L. A 36 m3 SAnoF was installed downstream the primary settling tanks. The optimal operation of the anoxic SAnoF was investigated by varying the recirculation ratio, the carbon‐to‐nitrate ratio, and the hydraulic retention time. After stable operation was achieved, nitrate was removed by 80% at a loading of 0.5 kg NO3/m3 day and a retention time of 60 min. The SAnoF presented a number of advantages, including the use of internal carbon for denitrification, decrease of carbon load to the trickling filter by 30%, and production of alkalinity required for nitrification in the trickling filter (11 mg CaCO3/mg NH4 removed). Overall, the SAnoF was satisfactory and the effluent TN concentration reached 20–25 mg TN/L.
Multidisciplinary Optimization Design for the Section Layout of Umbilicals Based on Intelligent Algorithm
Authors: Yang Zhixun , Lu Qingzhen , Yan Jun , Chen Jinlong , Yue Qianjin
Published: November 2017

Umbilicals, which link top floaters and subsea devices, provide control functions through electrical cables and hydraulic remote transmission. These cables are considered the “lifeline” of subsea production systems for offshore oil and gas exploitation. Umbilicals should undertake self-weight and periodic loading during operation because of the severe conditions of the ocean environment. Heat is released to the umbilical body during power transmission in electric cables, which influences the mechanical properties and optical transmission in the cable. However, several sectional arrangements can be applied to a number of umbilical components. Thus, sectional layout design with multiple components should be treated as a multidisciplinary optimization problem. From the mechanical point of view, the umbilical structure should be designed with compact and symmetric layout to obtain an even probability of resistance to loads and reduce structural stress, thereby improving fatigue performance. In terms of thermal effect, these electric cables should be arranged to dissipate heat easily and avoid influence on functional and structural components. This study quantifies compactness, symmetry, and temperature distribution by introducing corresponding indices. A multidisciplinary optimization framework is then established. Particle swarm optimization (PSO) intelligent algorithm is adopted to perform optimization and obtain the optimal solution, which is superior to the initial design. The optimization design strategy is proven effective and efficient by a case study, which provides a reference for umbilical design.
Nonlinear Piecewise Restoring Force in Hydrokinetic Power Conversion Using Flow-Induced Vibrations of Two Tandem Cylinders
Authors: Ma Chunhui , Sun Hai , Bernitsas Marinos M.
Published: November 2017

Flow-induced vibrations (FIVs) of two tandem, rigid, circular cylinders with piecewise continuous restoring force are investigated for Reynolds number 24,000 ≤ Re ≤ 120,000 with damping, and restoring force function as parameters. Selective roughness is applied to enhance FIV and increase the hydrokinetic energy captured by the vortex-induced vibration for aquatic clean energy (VIVACE) converter. Experimental results for amplitude response, frequency response, interactions between cylinders, energy harvesting, and efficiency are presented and discussed. All experiments were conducted in the low-turbulence free-surface water (LTFSW) Channel of the MRELab of the University of Michigan. The main conclusions are as follows: (1) the nonlinear-spring converter can harness energy from flows as slow as 0.33 m/s with no upper limit; (2) the nonlinear-spring converter has better performance at initial galloping than its linear-spring counterpart; (3) the FIV response is predominantly periodic for all nonlinear spring functions used; (4) the influence from the upstream cylinder is becoming more dominant as damping increases; (5) optimal power harnessing is achieved by changing the linear viscous damping and tandem spacing L/D; (6) close spacing ratio L/D = 1.57 has a positive impact on the harnessed power in VIV to galloping transition; and (7) the interactions between two cylinders have a positive impact on the upstream cylinder regardless of the spacing and harness damping.
Performance and Cost Analysis of Conventional Petrol Car Converted Into Solar-Electric Hybrid Car
Authors: Karim A. , Shahid Z.
Published: November 2017

Vehicles are getting transformed from a single source of energy to dual or multiple sources of energy due to ever-increasing fuel problems and environment-related issues. Although hybrid vehicles provide environmental friendly option, however, they require sophisticated mechanical, electrical, and electronic parts and systems. As a result, hybrid cars are more expensive than fossil fuel-based conventional cars. One of the cost effective options is to convert used fossil fuel-based conventional cars into hybrid or electric cars. This conversion requires installation of electric motor and complex electronic control system for smooth and safe operation. This paper presents necessary details about the conversion of a conventional fossil fuel-based car into a solar-electric hybrid (SOLECT) car. Conversion of a conventional car into a SOLECT car can help people to save on fuel costs and protect environment.
An Improved Methodology to Design Large-Scale Photovoltaic Power Plant
Authors: Durusu Ali , Erduman Ali
Published: November 2017

A secure and reliable supply of energy is important for economic stability and even in social life. Increasing human population, industrialization, and rising living standards lead to increased electrical energy demand. Uncertainties in oil prices, shortage of fossil fuel reserves, and environmental pollution from conventional fuels leads solar energy as an alternative resource for electricity production. The share of installed photovoltaic (PV) capacity as a percent of total installed power generating capacity is increasing every year. In this study, an improved methodology to design large-scale PV power plant is proposed. The proposed methodology is performed for designing optimal configurations of PV power plants. The design methodology is performed using commercially available PV modules and inverters. In addition, solar radiation, ambient temperature, wind speed, shadow effect, and location and shape of plant field are taken into consideration as input parameters. The alternatives and parameters are evaluated with the purpose of minimizing the levelized cost of generated electricity (LCOE). The methodology includes the use of a genetic algorithm (GA) for determining the optimal number of PV modules and inverters, optimum tilt angle of PV modules, required installation area for the plant and optimum cable cross section and lengths. In the paper, the methodology is implemented, and case studies and results using pvsyst software for the same case studies are compared with each other.
Modeling and Control of Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Power Plant With Fault Ride-Through Capability
Authors: Al-Shetwi Ali Q. , Sujod Muhamad Zahim
Published: November 2017

According to modern grid codes (GCs), high penetration of photovoltaic power plants (PVPPs) to the utility grid requires a reliable PV generation system by achieving fault ride-through (FRT) requirements. In order to meet these requirements, there are two major issues that should be addressed to keep the inverter connected during grid fault. The two issues are the ac over-current and dc-link over-voltage that may cause disconnection or damage to the grid inverter. In this paper, the control of single-stage PVPP inverters is developed to address these issues and enhance FRT capability. The proposed control scheme introduces the dc brake chopper circuit and current limiter to protect the inverter and ride through the fault smoothly with no perceptible overcompensation. A 1.5 MW PVPP connected into the Malaysian grid and modeled in simulink is utilized to explain the proposed control scheme. The simulation results presented demonstrate the effectiveness of the overall proposed control strategy to ride through different types of faults and to help to ensure the safety of the system equipment.
Characterization of gain and directivity of exponential horn receivers
Authors: Mennitt Daniel J. , Fristrup Kurt M. , Notaros Branislav M.
Published: November 2017

It is difficult and expensive to match the sensitivity of the most sensitive vertebrate ears with off-the-shelf microphones due to the self-noise of the sensor. The extremely small apertures of microelectromechanical microphones create options to use horn waveguides to amplify sound prior to transduction without resulting in an unacceptably narrow directivity. Substantial gain can be achieved at wavelengths larger than the horn. An analytical model of an exponential horn embedded in a rigid spherical housing was formulated to describe the gain relative to a free-field receiver as a function of frequency and angle of arrival. For waves incident on-axis, the analytical model provided an accurate estimate of gain at high frequencies as validated by experimental measurement. Numerical models, using the equivalent source method, can account for higher order modes and comprehensively describe the acoustic scattering within and around the horn for waves arriving from any direction. Results show the directivity of horn receivers were adequately described by the analytical model up to a critical wavelength, and the mechanisms of deviation in gain at high frequencies and large angles of arrival were identified.
Spatial and temporal seismic velocity changes on Kyushu Island during the 2016 Kumamoto earthquake
Authors: Nimiya Hiro , Ikeda Tatsunori , Tsuji Takeshi
Published: November 2017

We mapped temporal seismic velocity variations during the Kumamoto earthquake due to fault rupture and a volcanic eruption.
Efficacy of Novel Antistaphylococcal Ectolysin P128 in a Rat Model of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia
Authors: Channabasappa Shankaramurthy , Durgaiah Murali , Chikkamadaiah Ravisha , Kumar Senthil , Joshi Amruta , Sriram Bharathi
Published: November 2017

Staphylococcus aureus
causes systemic infections with high morbidity and mortality, and the emergence of drug-resistant strains is a rapidly growing clinical concern. Novel therapeutic agents are required to tackle
S. aureus
infections. P128 is a bacteriophage-derived chimeric ectolysin with potent and rapid bactericidal activity against
S. aureus
. In the present study, the efficacy of P128 was evaluated in a newly developed rat model of
S. aureus
bacteremia. Prior to
in vivo
testing, P128 was shown to be stable in whole blood by incubation in rat blood for up to 6 h and testing its bactericidal activity against the methicillin-resistant
S. aureus
isolate USA300. Rats succumbed to intravenous challenge with 10
9
CFU of
S. aureus
USA300, resulting in 80 to 100% mortality by day 14. Evaluation of the bacterial load in various organs at 96 h postinfection revealed high bacterial counts in the kidney, and this correlated with the presence of renal abscesses. Treatment of infected animals with P128 either by intravenous bolus administration via tail vein or by 1-h infusion via the jugular vein at 2 h postinfection resulted in the dose-dependent survival of rats. P128 treatment also resulted in very few or no abscesses in the kidneys. These data show that P128 is stable in the physiological milieu and that intravenous treatment with P128 is highly effective in rescuing rats from
S. aureus
bacteremia. P128 can be a novel therapeutic option for treatment of
S. aureus
systemic infections.
Limited Effects of Variable-Retention Harvesting on Fungal Communities Decomposing Fine Roots in Coastal Temperate Rainforests
Authors: Philpott Timothy J. , Barker Jason S. , Prescott Cindy E. , Grayston Sue J.
Published: November 2017

Fine root litter is the principal source of carbon stored in forest soils and a dominant source of carbon for fungal decomposers. Differences in decomposer capacity between fungal species may be important determinants of fine-root decomposition rates. Variable-retention harvesting (VRH) provides refuge for ectomycorrhizal fungi, but its influence on fine-root decomposers is unknown, as are the effects of functional shifts in these fungal communities on carbon cycling. We compared fungal communities decomposing fine roots (in litter bags) under VRH, clear-cut, and uncut stands at two sites (6 and 13 years postharvest) and two decay stages (43 days and 1 year after burial) in Douglas fir forests in coastal British Columbia, Canada. Fungal species and guilds were identified from decomposed fine roots using high-throughput sequencing. Variable retention had short-term effects on β-diversity; harvest treatment modified the fungal community composition at the 6-year-postharvest site, but not at the 13-year-postharvest site. Ericoid and ectomycorrhizal guilds were not more abundant under VRH, but stand age significantly structured species composition. Guild composition varied by decay stage, with ruderal species later replaced by saprotrophs and ectomycorrhizae. Ectomycorrhizal abundance on decomposing fine roots may partially explain why fine roots typically decompose more slowly than surface litter. Our results indicate that stand age structures fine-root decomposers but that decay stage is more important in structuring the fungal community than shifts caused by harvesting. The rapid postharvest recovery of fungal communities decomposing fine roots suggests resiliency within this community, at least in these young regenerating stands in coastal British Columbia.

IMPORTANCE
Globally, fine roots are a dominant source of carbon in forest soils, yet the fungi that decompose this material and that drive the sequestration or respiration of this carbon remain largely uncharacterized. Fungi vary in their capacity to decompose plant litter, suggesting that fungal community composition is an important determinant of decomposition rates. Variable-retention harvesting is a forestry practice that modifies fungal communities by providing refuge for ectomycorrhizal fungi. We evaluated the effects of variable retention and clear-cut harvesting on fungal communities decomposing fine roots at two sites (6 and 13 years postharvest), at two decay stages (43 days and 1 year), and in uncut stands in temperate rainforests. Harvesting impacts on fungal community composition were detected only after 6 years after harvest. We suggest that fungal community composition may be an important factor that reduces fine-root decomposition rates relative to those of above-ground plant litter, which has important consequences for forest carbon cycling.
Ankyrin-Like Protein AnkB Interacts with CatB, Affects Catalase Activity, and Enhances Resistance of Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae and Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzicola to Phenazine-1-Carboxylic Acid
Authors: Pan Xiayan , Xu Shu , Wu Jian , Duan Yabing , Zheng Zhitian , Wang Jianxin , Song Xiushi , Zhou Mingguo
Published: November 2017

Xanthomonas oryzaepv. oryzae, which causes rice bacterial leaf blight, andXanthomonas oryzaepv. oryzicola, which causes rice bacterial leaf streak, are important plant-pathogenic bacteria. A member of the adaptor protein family, ankyrin protein, has been investigated largely in humans but rarely in plant-pathogenic bacteria. In this study, a novel ankyrin-like protein, AnkB, was identified inX. oryzaepv. oryzae andX. oryzaepv. oryzicola. The expression ofankBwas significantly upregulated when these bacteria were treated with phenazine-1-carboxylic acid (PCA).ankBis located 58 bp downstream of the genecatB(which encodes a catalase) in both bacteria, and the gene expression ofcatBand catalase activity were reduced followingankBdeletion inX. oryzaepv. oryzae andX. oryzaepv. oryzicola. Furthermore, we demonstrated that AnkB directly interacts with CatB by glutathioneS-transferase (GST) pulldown assays. Deletion ofankBincreased the sensitivity ofX. oryzaepv. oryzae andX. oryzaepv. oryzicola to H2O2and PCA, decreased bacterial biofilm formation, swimming ability, and exopolysaccharide (EPS) production, and also reduced virulence on rice. Together our results indicate that the ankyrin-like protein AnkB has important and conserved roles in antioxidant systems and pathogenicity inX. oryzaepv. oryzae andX. oryzaepv. oryzicola.

IMPORTANCEThis study demonstrates that the ankyrin protein AnkB directly interacts with catalase CatB inXanthomonas oryzaepv. oryzae andXanthomonas oryzaepv. oryzicola. Ankyrin protein AnkB can affect the gene expression ofcatB, catalase activity, and sensitivity to H2O2. InXanthomonasspp., the locations of genesankBandcatBand the amino acid sequence of AnkB are highly conserved. It is suggested that in prokaryotes, AnkB plays a conserved role in the defense against oxidative stress.