bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the Oil‐Gelling Properties of Natural Waxes in Rice Bran Oil: Rheological, Thermal, and Microstructural Study
Authors: Doan Chi Diem , Van de Walle Davy , Dewettinck Koen , Patel Ashok R.
Published: April 2015

The main objective of this research was to enhance the understanding of the oil‐structuring properties of natural waxes. A number of natural food‐grade waxes were evaluated for their oil‐gelling properties using a combination of techniques, including rheology, differential scanning calorimetry, and polarized light microscopy. Based on the rheological measurements (oscillatory, flow, and thixotropic behavior), we found that rice bran wax, carnauba Brazilian wax and fruit wax showed weak gelling behavior in rice bran oil (prepared at concentrations as high as 5 % w/w), exhibiting relative low elastic moduli that displayed a high frequency dependency. On the contrary, carnauba wild wax, berry wax, candelilla wax, beeswax, and sunflower wax were efficient oleogelators forming strong gels at concentration of <2 % w/w. We attempt to explain these observed differences in gelling behavior by crystal morphology, network formation, and the final amount of crystalline phase.
Performance of the CogState computerized battery in the Mayo Clinic Study on Aging
Authors: Mielke Michelle M. , Machulda Mary M. , Hagen Clinton E. , Edwards Kelly K. , Roberts Rosebud O. , Pankratz V. Shane , Knopman David S. , Jack Clifford R. , Petersen Ronald C.
Published: April 2015

Introduction

The feasibility and validity of brief computerized cognitive batteries at the population‐level are unknown.

Methods

Nondemented participants (n = 1660, age 50–97 years) in the Mayo Clinic Study on Aging completed the computerized CogState battery and standard neuropsychological battery. The correlation between tests was examined and comparisons between CogState performance on the personal computer (PC) and iPad (n = 331), and in the clinic vs. at home (n = 194), were assessed.

Results

We obtained valid data on greater than 97% of participants on each test. Correlations between the CogState and neuropsychological tests ranged from −0.462 to 0.531. Although absolute differences between the PC and iPad were small and participants preferred the iPad, performance on the PC was faster. Participants performed faster on Detection, One Card Learning, and One Back at home compared with the clinic.

Discussion

The computerized CogState battery, especially the iPad, was feasible, acceptable, and valid in the population.
Successful Rehabilitation of a Young Adult With Total Hip Arthroplasty a Decade After a Girdlestone Procedure: A Case Presentation
Authors: Marinko Lee N. , Christie Renee E. , Lewis Cara L.
Published: April 2015

This is a case presentation of a female patient who underwent a Girdlestone arthroplasty at age 10 years and a total hip arthroplasty at age 21. Despite early postoperative rehabilitation, the patient experienced increasing pain, progressive gait deviations, and functional limitations during the year after surgery. This course of care was initiated 1 year after surgery and focused on motor retraining to address pain and gait deviations. This case demonstrates that positive outcomes can be achieved after longstanding musculoskeletal dysfunction is corrected, but that prolonged rehabilitation may be necessary to produce changes in movement patterns at both the local (joint and muscle) and central (cortical) levels. Correction of both the structural problem and the learned movement patterns is necessary for a successful outcome.
THE CONVENIENCE OF THE TYPESETTER; NOTATION AND TYPOGRAPHY IN FREGE’SGRUNDGESETZE DER ARITHMETIK
Authors: GREEN J. J. , ROSSBERG MARCUS , EBERT PHILIP A.
Published: April 2015

We discuss the typography of the notation used by Gottlob Frege in hisGrundgesetze der Arithmetik.
Rethinking theDartmouth CollegeCase in American Political Development: Constituting Public and Private Educational Institutions
Authors: Thomas George
Published: April 2015

Dartmouth College v. Woodwardis taken to be the seminal case in the rise of the corporation. In recognizing a charter as a contract that vested private rights against many forms of state regulation, the case paved the way for the private business corporation and helped usher in large-scale commercial development against Jeffersonian agrarianism. In this “classical liberal story,”Dartmouth Collegeis understood to have preserved a private corporation against public interference. Yet this understanding ofDartmouth Collegeneglects what the actual case was about and erases an important moment of constitutional development. American colleges in the colonial period were church–state schools forged when the church and state were not separated. TheDartmouth Collegecase was part of a wider constitutional debate over what many saw as a public institution that, in the wake of the American Revolution, needed to be “disestablished” from the church. Doing so was part of a revolutionary constitutionalism that would help frame how we understood the relationship between public and private, church and state. This was a conflict about recasting institutions and embedding them in constitutional ideas. While advocates failed to solidify Dartmouth as a “public” institution, they succeeded in forging distinctions between public and private that shape how we think today.
GOOD TO BE BAD?
Authors: Bloomfield Paul
Published: April 2015

It is often thought that the first question of morality is ‘Why be moral?’, but since it is often thought that morality opposes our happiness, it is best to start with the question, ‘Why not be immoral?’. An answer is given: being immoral is self-disrespecting, and self-respect is necessary for happiness.
A DEBATE BETWEEN A THEIST AND A SANTA CLAUSIST (ACT I)
Authors: Tallman Ruth , Johnson David Kyle
Published: April 2015

Many claim that belief in God is like belief in Santa Claus – it's an irrational belief that people justify with irrational arguments because they cherish it and because it comforts them. In this dialogue, true believers ‘have it out’ regarding whether either of their beliefs – belief in God, or belief in Santa – is rational, and a direct parallel between the reasoning of the two sides is demonstrated. Many important arguments regarding theistic belief are discussed in some form. The article is intended for use in an introduction to philosophy, or an introductory philosophy of religion course, as a humorous way to foster discussion and expose students to criticisms of theistic arguments, and to consider the possibility that theistic belief is no better than belief in the existence of Santa Claus. Act One.
Moon Receives 2014 Donald L. Turcotte Award
Authors:   AGU
Published: April 2015

Woosok Moon was awarded the 2014 Donald L. Turcotte Award, given annually to recent Ph.D. recipients for outstanding dissertation research that contributes directly to the field of nonlinear geophysics.
PHRF1 promotes genome integrity by modulating non-homologous end-joining
Authors: Chang C-F , Chu P-C , Wu P-Y , Yu M-Y , Lee J-Y , Tsai M-D , Chang M-S
Published: April 2015

Methylated histone readers are critical for chromatin dynamics, transcription, and DNA repair. Human PHRF1 contains a plant homeodomain (PHD) that recognizes methylated histones and a RING domain, which ubiquitinates substrates. A recent study reveals that PHRF1 is a tumor suppressor that promotes TGF-β cytostatic signaling through TGIF ubiquitination. Also, PHRF1 is a putative phosphorylation substrate of ataxia telangiectasia-mutated/ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related kinases; however, the role of PHRF1 in DNA damage response is unclear. Here we report a novel function of PHRF1 in modulating non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ). PHRF1 quickly localizes to DNA damage lesions upon genotoxic insults. Ablation of PHRF1 decreases the efficiency of plasmid-based end-joining, whereas PHRF1 overexpression leads to an elevated NHEJ in H1299 reporter cells. Immunoprecipitation and peptide pull-down assays verify that PHRF1 constitutively binds to di- and trimethylated histone H3 lysine 36 (H3K36) (H3K36me2 and H3K36me3) via its PHD domain. Substitution of S915DT917E to ADAE in PHRF1 decreases its affinity for NBS1. Both PHD domain and SDTE motif are required for its NHEJ-promoting activity. Furthermore, PHRF1 mediates PARP1 polyubiquitination for proteasomal degradation. These results suggest that PHRF1 may combine with H3K36 methylation and NBS1 to promote NHEJ and stabilize genomic integrity upon DNA damage insults.
Processing of visually evoked innate fear by a non-canonical thalamic pathway
Authors: Wei Pengfei , Liu Nan , Zhang Zhijian , Liu Xuemei , Tang Yongqiang , He Xiaobin , Wu Bifeng , Zhou Zheng , Liu Yaohan , Li Juan , Zhang Yi , Zhou Xuanyi , Xu Lin , Chen Lin , Bi Guoqiang , Hu Xintian , Xu Fuqiang , Wang Liping
Published: April 2015

The ability of animals to respond to life-threatening stimuli is essential for survival. Although vision provides one of the major sensory inputs for detecting threats across animal species, the circuitry underlying defensive responses to visual stimuli remains poorly defined. Here, we investigate the circuitry underlying innate defensive behaviours elicited by predator-like visual stimuli in mice. Our results demonstrate that neurons in the superior colliculus (SC) are essential for a variety of acute and persistent defensive responses to overhead looming stimuli. Optogenetic mapping revealed that SC projections to the lateral posterior nucleus (LP) of the thalamus, a non-canonical polymodal sensory relay, are sufficient to mimic visually evoked fear responses. In vivo electrophysiology experiments identified a di-synaptic circuit from SC through LP to the lateral amygdale (Amg), and lesions of the Amg blocked the full range of visually evoked defensive responses. Our results reveal a novel collicular–thalamic–Amg circuit important for innate defensive responses to visual threats.
Effectiveness of community-based integrated care in frail COPD patients: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Hernández Carme , Alonso Albert , Garcia-Aymerich Judith , Serra Ignasi , Marti Dolors , Rodriguez-Roisin Robert , Narsavage Georgia , Carmen Gomez Maria , Roca Josep ,   NEXES consortium
Published: April 2015

Background:

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) generates a high burden on health care, and hospital admissions represent a substantial proportion of the overall costs of the disease. Integrated care (IC) has shown efficacy to reduce hospitalisations in COPD patients at a pilot level. Deployment strategies for IC services require assessment of effectiveness at the health care system level.

Aims:

The aim of this study was to explore the effectiveness of a community-based IC service in preventing hospitalisations and emergency department (ED) visits in stable frail COPD patients.

Methods:

From April to December 2005, 155 frail community-dwelling COPD patients were randomly allocated either to IC (n=76, age 73 (8) years, forced expiratory volume during the first second, FEV1 41(19) % predicted) or usual care (n=84, age 75(9) years, FEV1 44 (20) % predicted) and followed up for 12 months. The IC intervention consisted of the following: (a) patient’s empowerment for self-management; (b) an individualised care plan; (c) access to a call centre; and (d) coordination between the levels of care. Thereafter, hospital admissions, ED visits and mortality were monitored for 6 years.

Results:

IC enhanced self-management (P=0.02), reduced anxiety–depression (P=0.001) and improved health-related quality of life (P=0.02). IC reduced both ED visits (P=0.02) and mortality (P=0.03) but not hospital admission. No differences between the two groups were seen after 6 years.

Conclusion:

The intervention improved clinical outcomes including survival and decreased the ED visits, but it did not reduce hospital admissions. The study facilitated the identification of two key requirements for adoption of IC services in the community: appropriate risk stratification of patients, and preparation of the community-based work force.
Near-shore Antarctic pH variability has implications for the design of oceanacidification experiments
Authors: Kapsenberg Lydia , Kelley Amanda L. , Shaw Emily C. , Martz Todd R. , Hofmann Gretchen E.
Published: April 2015

Understanding how declining seawater pH caused by anthropogenic carbon emissions, or oceanacidification, impacts Southern Ocean biota is limited by a paucity of pH time-series. Here,we present the first high-frequency in-situ pH time-series in near-shore Antarctica fromspring to winter under annual sea ice. Observations from autonomous pH sensors revealed aseasonal increase of 0.3 pH units. The summer season was marked by an increase in temporalpH variability relative to spring and early winter, matching coastal pH variability observedat lower latitudes. Using our data, simulations of ocean acidification show a future periodof deleterious wintertime pH levels potentially expanding to 7–11 months annually by 2100.Given the presence of (sub)seasonal pH variability, Antarctica marine species have anexisting physiological tolerance of temporal pH change that may influence adaptation tofuture acidification. Yet, pH-induced ecosystem changes remain difficult to characterize inthe absence of sufficient physiological data on present-day tolerances. It is thereforeessential to incorporate natural and projected temporal pH variability in the design ofexperiments intended to study ocean acidification biology.
One-dimension-based spatially ordered architectures for solar energy conversion
Authors: Liu Siqi , Tang Zi-Rong , Sun Yugang , Colmenares Juan Carlos , Xu Yi-Jun
Published: April 2015

The current status, future developments, and challenges of one-dimension-based spatially ordered architectures in solar energy conversion are discussed and elucidated.
Carbon nanotube catalysts: recent advances in synthesis, characterization and applications
Authors: Yan Yibo , Miao Jianwei , Yang Zhihong , Xiao Fang-Xing , Yang Hong Bin , Liu Bin , Yang Yanhui
Published: April 2015

Carbon nanotubes are promising materials for various applications.
Computational prediction and experimental validation of low-affinity target of triptolide and its analogues
Authors: Liu Xiufeng , Wang Kai , Duan Ningjun , Lan Yan , Ma Pengcheng , Zheng Heng , Zheng Weijuan , Li Jiahuang , Hua Zi-chun
Published: April 2015

ERα as a novel low affinity target for triptolide and its analogues triptonide and triptriolide.
Structure determination of bound nitrogen-based adducts with copper(ii) acetylacetonato; an EPR, ENDOR and DFT study
Authors: Carter Emma , Sharples Katherine M. , Platts James A. , Murphy Damien M.
Published: April 2015

1H ENDOR spectroscopy and DFT have been used to characterize the coordination and geometry of bound pyridine and substituted pyridine substrates in the [Cu(acac)2](pyridine) and [Cu(acac)2](2-amino-6-methyl-pyridine) adducts.
Dielectric and Raman investigations of structural phase transitions in (C2H5NH3)2CdCl4
Authors: Yadav Ruchika , Swain Diptikanta , Kundu Partha P. , Nair Harikrishnan S. , Narayana Chandrabhas , Elizabeth Suja
Published: April 2015

Structure of (C2H5NH3)2CdCl4 used for calculating Raman modes using Gaussian software.
A squaramide and tertiary amine: an excellent hydrogen-bonding pair organocatalyst for living polymerization
Authors: Liu Jingjing , Chen Cheng , Li Zhenjiang , Wu Wenzhuo , Zhi Xu , Zhang Qiguo , Wu Hao , Wang Xin , Cui Saide , Guo Kai
Published: April 2015

A hydrogen-bond motif based on a squaramide and sparteine efficiently promoted the ring-opening polymerization of l-lactide at ambient temperature.
The OH-initiated chemical transformation of 1,2,4,6,8,10,11-heptachloroundecane in the atmosphere
Authors: Liu Ruirui , Zhang Chenxi , Kang Lingyan , Sun Xiaomin , Zhao Yan
Published: April 2015

1,2,4,6,8,10,11-Heptachloroundecane (HCU) is selected to investigate the chemical transformation of SCCPs using the density functional theory method.
Novel efficient fluorophores synthesized from citric acid
Authors: Kasprzyk Wiktor , Bednarz Szczepan , Żmudzki Paweł , Galica Mateusz , Bogdał Dariusz
Published: April 2015

Citric acid was reacted with α,β-diamines, β-amino thiols and β-amino alcohols to produce fluorescent derivatives of 2-pyridone (QY up to ∼79%). The chemical structures of these compounds were confirmed by analyses of 1D, 2D NMR and ESI-MS data.
Hydrogen diffusion in MgH2 doped with Ti, Mn and Fe
Authors: Koteski Vasil , Belošević-Čavor Jelena , Batalović Katarina , Radaković Jana , Umićević Ana
Published: April 2015

Incorporation of suitable dopants in MgH2 is widely investigated as the way of improving hydrogen storage characteristics of this material.
Enhanced oral absorption of saquinavir mediated by PEGylated solid lipid nanoparticles
Authors: Hu Xiaoyu , Kang Xuqi , Ying Xiaoying , Wang Lejian , Du Yongzhong
Published: April 2015

PEGylated solid lipid nanoparticles containing saquinavir exhibited higher relative bioavailability which increased with enhancing of the polyethylene glycol content in the nanoparticles.
Non-linear viscoelastic properties of TATB-based polymer bonded explosives modified by a neutral polymeric bonding agent
Authors: Lin Congmei , Liu Jiahui , He Guansong , Chen Luoliang , Huang Zhong , Gong Feiyan , Liu Yonggang , Liu Shijun
Published: April 2015

The application of NPBA provides an efficient route to reinforce, toughen, and improve the creep resistance of explosive composites.
Testing of three‐phase equipment under voltage sags
Authors: Rolán Alejandro , Córcoles Felipe , Pedra Joaquin , Monjo Lluis , Bogarra Santiago
Published: April 2015

This paper provides insight into the testing of three‐phase equipment exposed to voltage sags caused by faults. The voltage sag recovers at the fault‐current zeros, leading to a ‘discrete’ voltage recovery, that is, the fault is cleared in different steps. In the literature, the most widespread classification divides ‘discrete’ sags into 14 types. The authors study shows that it is generally sufficient to consider only five sag types for three‐phase equipment, here called ‘time‐invariant (TI)’ equipment. As the remaining nine sag types cause identical equipment behaviour in Park or Ku variables, the number of laboratory tests (or of extensive simulations) on equipment under sags is reduced by a ratio of 14/5. The study is validated by simulation of a three‐phase induction generator and a three‐phase inverter, which are ‘TI’, and a three‐phase diode bridge rectifier, which is not ‘TI’. Both analytical study and simulation results are validated by testing a three‐phase induction motor and a three‐phase diode bridge rectifier.
Dual-body magnetic helical robot for drilling and cargo delivery in human blood vessels
Authors: Lee Wonseo , Jeon Seungmun , Nam Jaekwang , Jang Gunhee
Published: April 2015

We propose a novel dual-body magnetic helical robot (DMHR) manipulated by a magnetic navigation system. The proposed DMHR can generate helical motions to navigate in human blood vessels and to drill blood clots by an external rotating magnetic field. It can also generate release motions which are relative rotational motions between dual-bodies to release the carrying cargos to a target region by controlling the magnitude of an external magnetic field. Constraint equations were derived to selectively manipulate helical and release motions by controlling external magnetic fields. The DMHR was prototyped and various experiments were conducted to demonstrate its motions and verify its manipulation methods.
Effect of Cu substitution on the magnetic and dielectric properties of La2NiMnO6
Authors: Biswal A. K. , Ray J. , Babu P. D. , Siruguri V. , Vishwakarma P. N.
Published: April 2015

In the continuation of our previous work [Biswal et al., J. Appl. Phys. 115, 194106 (2014)] of biphasic La2NiMnO6 (LNM) prepared via sol-gel technique, here we are reporting the effect of Cu substitution at Ni site of LNM. The powder x-ray diffraction results of La2Ni1−xCuxMnO6 (x = 0, 0.05, 0.1) confirm the biphasic nature (Pbnm + R-3c) for all samples along with increasing R-3c phase with Cu content in the sample. The temperature variation of magnetization (M) plot shows sharp ferromagnetic transitions of R-3c phase at 285 K, 278 K, and 270 K (obtained from dM/dT plot) and that of Pbnm phase at 165 K, 145 K, and 145 K for x = 0, 0.05, and 0.1, respectively. Weak antiferromagnetic type feature at 25 K (x = 0), is getting pronounced with Cu content in the sample and is now seen at 32 K & 266 K (for x = 0.05) and 32K & 257 K (for x = 0.1). Fitting of Curie-Weiss law in the paramagnetic region of χ−1 vs T plot results slightly lower values of corresponding Tc's of R-3 c phase (277 K, 270 K, and 260 K), thus manifesting possibility of Griffiths like singularity. The onset temperature of Griffiths singularity occurs at 295 K (x = 0) and 281 K (x = 0.05 and 0.1), such that 295–277 K in x = 0, 281–270 K in x = 0.05, and 281–260 K in x = 0.1 sample is in Griffith's phase. Temperature dependent dielectric constant (εr) shows usual step-like transitions with corresponding relaxation peaks in the dielectric loss (D) part. Cu substitution in LNM makes the entire dielectric plot shifts towards lower temperature such that high temperature plateau of step transition becomes evident. The peaks in dielectric loss for all compositions are found to obey Arrhenius law with activation energies 237 meV, 207 meV, and 180 meV for x = 0, 0.05, and 0.1, respectively.
Impact of surface coated magnetite used in magnetic drug delivery system on immune response
Authors: Oaku Yoshihiro , Tamada Junya , Mishima Fumihito , Akiyama Yoko , Osako Mariana Kiomy , Koriyama Hiroshi , Nakagami Hironori , Nishijima Shigehiro
Published: April 2015

Magnetic drug delivery system (MDDS) is a technique to effectively accumulate drugs, which are combined with ferromagnetic particles, into the affected area using magnetic force control. This study intends to apply MDDS for immunotherapy by enhancing immune responses by a surface treatment of a ferromagnetic particle. The objective of this study is to give the adjuvant effect to a ferromagnetic particle by the surface treatment with alum, which is known as one of the common adjuvants that activates inflammasome pathway. First, magnetite was prepared as a ferromagnetic particle and coated with alum. Alum-coated magnetite increased the expression of caspase-1, which is an activated indicator of inflammasome, in the culture of human monocyte cell (THP-1 cell). To evaluate the potential of the surface coated particles, the particles were subcutaneously injected to mice with a peptide vaccine. As a result, the antibody titer was increased by the surface coated particles as assessed by ELISA. Although a magnetic force has not yet applied in this study, the administration experiment to mice using magnetic force control is our next step. In conclusion, we modified the immune response to magnetite by coating the surface with alum. This can lead to a clinical application for vaccine therapy in future.
Employee factors associated with interest in improving sun protection in an Australian mining workforce
Authors: Street Tamara D. , Thomas Drew Leighton
Published: April 2015

Background

As Australia experiences moderate to extreme levels of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, high participation in sun protection behaviour is required to minimise the risk of developing skin cancer. Understanding factors associated with interest in improving sun protection will enable employers to increase enrolment in sun protection programs.

Method

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted at mining sites in rural Australia. The survey assessed employee demographics, stages of change and health‐belief model variables, sun protection behaviour, and preferences for improving sun protection.

Results

Overall, 897 employees participated: 73% were male and 47% were classed as being at high risk of ultraviolet‐related illnesses. Although 24% of high‐risk participants wanted to increase their sun protection practices, only 6% wanted employerprovided sun protection assistance. Marital status and recent experience of sunburn were associated with desire to improve sun protection. Over 50% of the high‐risk participants who did not want to increase their sun protection and did not want assistance were in the pre‐contemplative stage of change. Self‐efficacy was associated with desire to improve sun protection while susceptibility was associated with desire for assistance.

Conclusion

The use of sun protection behaviours among this sample was low. Many employees at high risk of ultraviolet radiation exposure do not believe their approach to sun protection needs changing.
New opportunities for conservation of a threatened biogenic habitat: a worldwide assessment of knowledge on bivalve-reef representation in marine and coastal Ramsar Sites
Authors: Kasoar Tim , zu Ermgassen Philline S. E. , Carranza Alvar , Hancock Boze , Spalding Mark
Published: April 2015

The present study draws attention to the current state of knowledge of bivalve reef, an important but historically overlooked habitat type. Recent interest has led to the explicit recognition of this habitat type under the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance (the Ramsar Convention), an international treaty that has widespread governmental and scientific involvement. To assess the state of knowledge, the Information Sheet on Ramsar Wetlands (RIS) for marine and coastal Sites was searched for evidence that bivalve-reef habitat is present in the site. We then examined the quality of this information using alternative data sources. These were public databases of geolocated species records at three spatial scales, local and regional experts, and a general web search. It was found that of the 893 marine and coastal Ramsar Sites considered, the RIS for 16 Sites provided strong evidence of bivalve-reef habitat and 99 had confirmed presence of reef-forming bivalves, a strikingly high number, given that it is not yet compulsory to include bivalve reef in RISs. However, the alternative information sources identified bivalve reefs or reef-forming bivalves in 142 further Sites. No one information source provided comprehensive information, highlighting the overall poor state of knowledge of this habitat type.
Hydrophilic microenvironment required for the channel-independent insertase function of YidC protein
Authors: Shimokawa-Chiba Naomi , Kumazaki Kaoru , Tsukazaki Tomoya , Nureki Osamu , Ito Koreaki , Chiba Shinobu
Published: April 2015

Significance

How membrane proteins are guided into the membrane is a fundamental question of cell biology. Translocons are known to create a polypeptide-conducting transmembrane (TM) channel having a lateral gate to allow lipid-phase partitioning of the substrate. Here, we show that YidC guides a class of membrane proteins in a channel-independent fashion. Our experiments using intact
Bacillus subtilis
cells show that SpoIIIJ, a YidC homolog, forms a water-accessible cavity in the cell membrane and that the cavity’s overall hydrophilicity, as well as the presence of an Arg residue at one of several alternative places on the cavity, is functionally important. The extracellular part of substrate is probably first attracted to the YidC cavity before establishment of a TM configuration through hydrophobic partitioning.
Does Whirling Disease Mediate Hybridization between a Native and Nonnative Trout?
Authors: Carim Kellie , Eby Lisa , Pierce Ron
Published: April 2015

The spread of nonnative species over the last century has profoundly altered freshwater ecosystems, resulting in novel species assemblages. Interactions between nonnative species may alter their impacts on native species, yet few studies have addressed multispecies interactions. The spread of whirling disease, caused by the nonnative parasite Myxobolus cerebralis, has generated declines in wild trout populations across western North America. Westslope Cutthroat Trout Oncorhynchus clarkii lewisi in the northern Rocky Mountains are threatened by hybridization with introduced Rainbow Trout O. mykiss. Rainbow Trout are more susceptible to whirling disease than Cutthroat Trout and may be more vulnerable due to differences in spawning location. We hypothesized that the presence of whirling disease in a stream would (1) reduce levels of introgressive hybridization at the site scale and (2) limit the size of the hybrid zone at the whole-stream scale. We measured levels of introgression and the spatial extent of hybridization between Rainbow Trout and Westslope Cutthroat Trout in four disease-positive streams and six disease-negative streams within the Blackfoot River basin of Montana. In addition to disease status, we considered habitat quality, stream slope, distance from the confluence, temperature, and elevation. Whirling disease presence was not associated with either the level of introgression at a site or the size of the hybrid zone. Temperature, elevation, and stream slope were all influential in determining levels of introgression at the site scale. Stream slope was the most influential factor determining the size of the hybrid zone, as longer, steeper streams contained smaller hybrid zones. Stream slope is a driver of many habitat characteristics that may provide refuge from invasive species in the coming decades. Although the multispecies interactions examined in this study did not alter the impacts of invasion on native species, community assemblages will continue to change with the spread of nonnative species, requiring continued assessment to determine their impacts on native species.

Received May 15, 2014; accepted January 7, 2015
Effect of varied recovery interventions on markers of psychophysiological stress in professional rugby union
Authors: Lindsay Angus , Lewis John , Gill Nicholas , Gieseg Steven P. , Draper Nick
Published: April 2015

Rugby union is a physical demanding sport that requires optimum recovery between games to maintain performance levels. Analysis of four unique biochemical markers of stress is measured here to determine which recovery strategy currently in use by a professional team provides the necessary requirements for sustained performance. Urine and saliva samples were collected from 37 professional rugby players before, immediately after and 36 hours after five home games, and analysed by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay and high performance liquid chromatography for urinary myoglobin, total neopterin (NP; NP + 7,8‐dihydroneopterin), salivary cortisol and immunoglobulin A. Subjects completed a cold water immersion (CWI) or pool session (PS), donned compression garments, consumed protein and carbohydrate food and fluid, and slept for 8 hours post‐game. The following day subjects choose from one or a combination of CWI, PS or active recovery/stretching to complete. There was no difference between the recovery protocols for cortisol, total NP, immunoglobulin A concentration or myoglobin at 36 hours post‐game. Immunoglobulin A secretion rate significantly increased above pre‐game levels at 36 hours post‐game for all protocols; however, protocol three did not increase as much (p = 0.038). Total NP was also significantly increased above pre‐game levels at 36 hours post‐game for all protocols. This study provides evidence that the immediate post‐game recovery intervention following a game of professional rugby union may be the most important aspect of psychophysiological player recovery, irrespective of the “next‐day” intervention. The concentrations of total NP and immunoglobulin A suggest these professional rugby players are still in a state of recovery 36 hours post‐game.
Fatty Acid Metabolism in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Role in Right Ventricular Dysfunction and Hypertrophy
Authors: Talati Megha , Hemnes Anna
Published: April 2015

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a complex, multifactorial disease in which an increase in pulmonary vascular resistance leads to increased afterload on the right ventricle (RV), causing right heart failure and death. Our understanding of the pathophysiology of RV dysfunction in PAH is limited but is constantly improving. Increasing evidence suggests that in PAH RV dysfunction is associated with various components of metabolic syndrome, such as insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, and dyslipidemia. The relationship between RV dysfunction and fatty acid/glucose metabolites is multifaceted, and in PAH it is characterized by a shift in utilization of energy sources toward increased glucose utilization and reduced fatty acid consumption. RV dysfunction may be caused by maladaptive fatty acid metabolism resulting from an increase in fatty acid uptake by fatty acid transporter molecule CD36 and an imbalance between glucose and fatty acid oxidation in mitochondria. This leads to lipid accumulation in the form of triglycerides, diacylglycerol, and ceramides in the cytoplasm, hallmarks of lipotoxicity. Current interventions in animal models focus on improving RV dysfunction through altering fatty acid oxidation rates and limiting lipid accumulation, but more specific and effective therapies may be available in the coming years based on current research. In conclusion, a deeper understanding of the complex mechanisms of the metabolic remodeling of the RV will aid in the development of targeted treatments for RV failure in PAH.
Anti-Semaphorin 3A neutralization monoclonal antibody prevents sepsis development in lipopolysaccharide-treated mice
Authors: Yamashita Naoya , Jitsuki-Takahashi Aoi , Ogawara Miyuki , Ohkubo Wataru , Araki Tomomi , Hotta Chie , Tamura Tomohiko , Hashimoto Shu-ichi , Yabuki Takashi , Tsuji Toru , Sasakura Yukie , Okumura Hiromi , Takaiwa Aki , Koyama Chika , Murakami Koji , Goshima Yoshio
Published: April 2015

Semaphorin 3A (Sema3A), originally identified as a potent growth cone collapsing factor in developing sensory neurons, is now recognized as a key player in immune, cardiovascular, bone metabolism and neurological systems. Here we established an anti-Sema3A monoclonal antibody that neutralizes the effects of Sema3A both in vitro and in vivo. The anti-Sema3A neutralization chick IgM antibodies were screened by combining an autonomously diversifying library selection system and an in vitro growth cone collapse assay. We further developed function-blocking chick-mouse chimeric and humanized anti-Sema3A antibodies. We found that our anti-Sema3A antibodies were effective for improving the survival rate in lipopolysaccharide-induced sepsis in mice. Our antibody is a potential therapeutic agent that may prevent the onset of or alleviate symptoms of human diseases associated with Sema3A.
The ever-evolving landscape of candidaemia in patients with acute leukaemia: non-susceptibility to caspofungin and multidrug resistance are associated with increased mortality
Authors: Wang Emily , Farmakiotis Dimitrios , Yang Daisy , McCue Deborah A. , Kantarjian Hagop M. , Kontoyiannis Dimitrios P. , Mathisen Michael S.
Published: April 2015

Objectives

The epidemiology and clinical course of candidaemia in patients with acute leukaemia, a population frequently exposed to antifungals, have not been extensively studied. In the present contemporary series of acute leukaemia patients, we describe patient characteristics, Candida species and MIC distributions and investigate the association between antifungal resistance and all-cause mortality.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of medical records and microbiological data of adult patients with acute leukaemia or high-risk myelodysplastic syndrome with at least one positive blood culture for Candida species at the MD Anderson Cancer Center between January 2008 and October 2012. Susceptibility was defined according to the 2012 epidemiological cut-off values and clinical breakpoints.

Results

We identified 67 episodes of candidaemia in 65 patients. Almost all episodes (94%) occurred in patients who were receiving antifungal agents, 71% in patients receiving an echinocandin. Almost all isolates (99%) were of non-albicans Candida species [most frequently Candida parapsilosis (32%), Candida tropicalis (23%) and Candida glabrata (20%)]. Caspofungin non-susceptibility was significantly associated with fluconazole resistance (P < 0.001). Non-susceptibility to caspofungin and multidrug resistance were associated with excess 14 day [adjusted HR (aHR) 3.02 (95% CI 1.28–7.09), P = 0.011 and aHR 3.02 (95% CI 1.27–7.14), P = 0.012, respectively] and 30 day [aHR 2.96 (95% CI 1.38–6.37), P = 0.005 and aHR 2.86 (95% CI 1.31–6.21), P = 0.008, respectively] all-cause mortality.

Conclusions

In patients with acute leukaemia, a shift in candidaemia epidemiology was noted with a 99% predominance of non-albicans species. Non-susceptibility of Candida strains to caspofungin or multidrug resistance were independent markers of poor outcome in this patient population.
First-line eradication rates comparing two shortened non-bismuth quadruple regimens againstHelicobacter pylori: an open-label, randomized, multicentre clinical trial
Authors: Cuadrado-Lavín Antonio , Salcines-Caviedes J. Ramón , Diaz-Perez Ainhoa , Carrascosa Miguel F. , Ochagavía María , Fernandez-Forcelledo José Luis , Cobo Marta , Fernández-Gil Pedro , Ayestarán Blanca , Sánchez Blanca , Campo Cristina , Llorca Javier , Lorenzo Silvia , Illaro Aitziber
Published: April 2015

Objectives

Helicobacter pylori eradication remains a challenge. Non-bismuth-based quadruple regimens (NBQR) have shown high eradication rates (ER) elsewhere that need to be locally confirmed. The objective of this study was to compare the first-line ER of a hybrid therapy (20 mg of omeprazole twice daily and 1 g of amoxicillin twice daily for 10 days, adding 500 mg of clarithromycin twice daily and 500 mg of metronidazole every 8 h for the last 5 days; OA-OACM) with that of a 10 day concomitant regimen consisting of taking all four drugs twice daily every day (including 500 mg of metronidazole every 12 h; OACM). A 10 day arm with standard triple therapy (OAC; 20 mg of omeprazole/12 h, 1 g of amoxicillin/12 h and 500 mg of clarithromycin/12 h) was included.

Patients and methods

Three hundred consecutive patients were randomized (1: 2: 2) into one of the three following regimens: (i) OAC (60); (ii) OA-OACM (120); and (iii) OACM (120). Eradication was generally confirmed by a [13C]urea breath test at least 4 weeks after the end of treatment. Adverse events and compliance were assessed. EudraCT: 2011-006258-99.

Results

ITT cure rates were: OAC, 70.0% (42/60) (95% CI: 58.3–81.7); OA-OACM, 90.8% (109/120) (95% CI: 85.6–96.0); and OACM, 90.0% (107/119) (95% CI: 84.6–95.4). PP rates were: OAC, 72.4% (42/58) (95% CI: 60.8–84.1); OA-OACM, 93.9% (108/115) (95% CI: 89.5–98.3); and OACM, 90.3% (102/113) (95% CI: 84.8–95.8). Both NBQR significantly improved ER compared with OAC (P < 0.01), but no differences were seen between them. Mean compliance was elevated [98.0% (SD = 9.8)] with no differences between groups. There were more adverse events in the quadruple arms (OACM, 65.8%; OA-OACM, 68.6%; OAC, 46.6%; P < 0.05), but no significant differences between groups in terms of severity were seen.

Conclusions

Hybrid and concomitant regimens show good ER against H. pylori infection with an acceptable safety profile. They clearly displace OAC as first-line regimen in our area.
Uniform stress fields inside multiple inclusions in an elastic infinite plane under plane deformation
Authors: Dai Ming , Gao Cun-Fa , Ru C. Q.
Published: April 2015

Multiple elastic inclusions with uniform internal stress fields in an infinite elastic matrix are constructed under given uniform remote in-plane loadings. The method is based on the sufficient and necessary condition imposed on the boundary value of a holomorphic function that guarantees the existence of the holomorphic function in a multiply connected region. The unknown shape of each of the multiple inclusions is characterized by a conformal mapping. This work focuses on a major large class of multiple inclusions characterized by a simple condition that covers and is much beyond the known related results reported in previous works. Extensive examples of multiple inclusions with or without geometrical symmetry are shown. Our results showed that the inclusion shapes obtained for the uniformity of internal stress fields are independent of the remote loading only when all of the multiple inclusions have the same shear modulus as that of the matrix. Moreover, specific conditions are derived on remote loading, elastic constants of the inclusions and uniform internal stress fields, which guarantee the existence of multiple symmetric inclusions or multiple rotationally symmetrical inclusions with uniform internal stress fields.
Minor works control in Hong Kong: a preliminary evaluation
Authors: WONG Johnny Kwok Wai , Shum Ringo W.H.
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– This study aims to understand the impacts of the Minor Works Control System (MWCS) on the performance of minor works contractors following its implementation in 2011, and specifically the initiatives adopted by minor works contractors in response to the new building control regime. Suggestions are made for the further improvement of the MWCS. Like many Western countries and Asian counterparts, Hong Kong has recently implemented a new building control system (the MWCS), which aims to restructure the building proposal approval process and shift the responsibility for building control from the public to the private sector. The effectiveness of the MWCS has been strongly questioned by the industry and the public.

Design/methodology/approach

– A mixed method including a questionnaire survey (quantitative) and focus group discussions (qualitative) was adopted to provide an initial evaluation of the impact of the MWCS on practitioners and the industry.

Findings

– The results suggest that implementation of the new control system has helped increase safety awareness and the technical capacity of minor works contractors. Despite these benefits, registered contractors are encountering challenges under the MWCS, such as manpower arrangement problems and higher business operating costs. Initiatives that include maintaining a sound financial background, an adequate in-house supervisory staff and a safe working environment are considered critical by practitioners to maintain their competitive edge under the new control regime.

Originality/value

– This study is one of the first studies in Hong Kong to evaluate the impact of the new building control system. The feedback and suggestions provided by the practitioners and experts during the research provide valuable insights for the government on how to provide support to practitioners under the MWCS to achieve a better built environment in Hong Kong.
Impacts of poor quality of information in the facility management field
Authors: Jylhä Tuuli , Suvanto Maila Elina
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– This paper aims to analyse the quality of information and its impact on the facility management (FM) service processes from a lean management perspective. Waste has a key role in lean management when improving productivity. Unfortunately, the potential of waste elimination has not been utilised in FM. Poorly managed information has already been recognised as a source of waste.

Design/methodology/approach

– The quality of information and related waste activities were studied in a value creation context through four in-depth case studies. The research included 130 interviews and workshops with the case organisations and their customers.

Findings

– The results confirm that poor quality of information produces a lot of waste activities. In the cross-case analysis, three impacts were found as a result of the poor quality of information in FM service processes: a lot of time is wasted for searching, a great deal of extra work is conducted and potential is lost.

Research limitations/implications

– Although the case study approach has its limitations, this study with its extensive data provides findings that are grounded in solid evidence.

Practical implications

– By utilising waste elimination and re-engineering value creation processes, FM organisations could improve the quality of information and increase their overall efficiency.

Originality/value

– This paper provides a deeper insight into the impacts that poor quality of information generates.
Improving confidence in environmental DNA species detection
Authors: Jerde Christopher L. , Mahon Andrew R.
Published: April 2015

Will we catch fish today? Our grandfathers’ responses were usually something along the lines of, ‘Probably. I've caught them here before’. One of the foundations of ecology is identifying which species are present, and where. This informs our understanding of species richness patterns, spread of invasive species, and loss of threatened and endangered species due to environmental change. However, our understanding is often lacking, particularly in aquatic environments where biodiversity remains hidden below the water's surface. The emerging field of metagenetic species surveillance is aiding our ability to rapidly determine which aquatic species are present, and where. In this issue of Molecular Ecology Resources, Ficetola et al. () provide a framework for metagenetic environmental DNA surveillance to foster the confidence of our grandfathers’ fishing prowess by more rigorously evaluating the replication levels necessary to quantify detection errors and ultimately improving our confidence in aquatic species presence.
The Influence of Mood on Subordinates’ Ability to Resist Coercive Pressure in Public Accounting
Authors: Johnson Eric N. , Lowe D. Jordan , Reckers Philip M. J.
Published: April 2015

This study reports on an experiment conducted to assess the influence of different affective mood states on auditors’ ability to resist obedience pressure to commit or overlook unethical acts in six audit contexts. Obedience pressure from superiors to comply with unethical directives is of particular concern in public accounting, given the hierarchical structure of audit teams and the power imbalance in superior–subordinate relationships. One hundred and seventy audit seniors from two large international public accounting firms participated in an experiment. Three different moods were induced in participants through work‐related trigger events: one positive active mood state (arousal) and two negative passive mood states (fear and insignificance). These mood states were anticipated to influence auditors’ expressed willingness to comply with their superiors’ unethical directives as set forth in our ethical scenarios. Our results indicate that low levels of arousal and high levels of fear and insignificance influenced compliance intentions. Our results also indicate overall high levels of expressed willingness to comply with superiors’ unethical directives. Implications of our findings for understanding the antecedents of unethical conduct within the accounting profession and for future research are discussed.
Early recognition of ipilimumab‐related autoimmune hypophysitis in patients with metastatic melanoma: Case studies and recommendations for management
Authors: Tiu Crescens , Pezaro Carmel , Davis Ian D , Grossmann Mathis , Parente Phillip
Published: April 2015

Ipilimumab is a human anti‐CTLA‐4 monoclonal antibody recently approved for the treatment of advanced melanoma. Stimulation of T‐cell activity unmasks antitumor activity, but can cause immune‐related adverse events. Autoimmune hypophysitis is of particular importance because its presentation can be subtle but life threatening. We present two cases where early recognition of ipilimumab‐related autoimmune hypophysitis led to timely intervention and low subsequent morbidity, without compromise of antitumor effects. We provide recommendations for detection and management of this potentially life‐threatening complication of ipilimumab.