bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does Corporate Social Responsibility Really Make a Difference? An Explorative Analysis for Chinese Companies
Authors: Graafland Johan , Smid Hugo
Published: March 2014

Many studies have been performed to assess the impacts of corporate social responsibility (CSR) on the financial performance of companies. There are, however, very few studies that analyze how CSR policies and instruments affect the realization of social and environmental CSR goals, such as the reduction of workplace accidents or CO2 emissions. Therefore, it remains uncertain to what extent CSR really contributes to sustainable development and whether it can serve as an alternative to government regulation to internalize external effects from market operation. The present study provides an explorative empirical analysis that aims to fill this gap. We employ regression analysis on a sample of 109 Chinese companies. The estimation results show that having a code of conduct stimulates the implementation of other organizational CSR instruments, but CSR implementation only partly affects the realization of CSR goals. Having codes of conduct without implementing CSR does not have a significant impact on societal welfare.
A randomized controlled trial of a nurse‐led case management programme for hospital‐discharged older adults with co‐morbidities
Authors: Chow Susan Ka Yee , Wong Frances Kam Yuet
Published: March 2014

Aim

To examine the effects of a nurse‐led case management programme for hospital‐discharged older adults with co‐morbidities.

Background

The most significant chronic conditions today involve diseases of the cardiovascular, respiratory, endocrine and renal systems. Previous studies have suggested that a nurse‐led case management approach using either telephone follow‐ups or home visits was able to improve clinical and patient outcomes for patients having a single, chronic disease, while the effects for older patients having at least two long‐term conditions are unknown. A self‐help programme using motivation and empowerment approaches is the framework of care in the study.

Design

Randomized controlled trial.

Method

The study was conducted from 2010–2012. Older patients having at least two chronic diseases were included for analysis. The participants were randomized into three arms: two study groups and one control group. Data were collected at baseline and at 4 and 12 weeks later.

Results

Two hundred and eighty‐one patients completed the study. The interventions demonstrated significant differences in hospital readmission rates within 84 days post discharge. The two intervention groups had lower readmission rates than the control group. Patients in the two study arms had significantly better self‐rated health and self‐efficacy. There was significant difference between the groups in the physical composite score, but no significant difference in mental component score in SF‐36 scale.

Conclusion

The postdischarge interventions led by the nurse case managers on self‐management of disease using the empowerment approach were able to provide effective clinical and patient outcomes for older patients having co‐morbidities.
Professional conduct among Registered Nurses in the use of online social networking sites
Authors: Levati Sara
Published: March 2014

Aim

To explore the use of Facebook by Registered Nurses (RNs) in Italy and the United Kingdom (UK), focusing on the disclosure of personal and professional information.

Background

The use of online social network sites among medical students and doctors is posing new ethical challenges to the profession. To date, little research has explored the use of online social networking sites among nurses.

Design

A cross‐national survey.

Methods

Data were assessed on 124 nurses’ profile pages, readily available without viewing restrictions. Content analysis and inferential statistics were undertaken to describe usage and identify similarities and differences between the two country‐groups of nurses. Data were collected between December 2011–January 2012.

Results

Overall, UK and Italian RNs showed a similar use of the online platform, tending to disclose personal pictures, home town and current home location, as well as updates and comments related to personal and work‐related activities. A statistically significant higher proportion of nurses in Italy disclosed their sexual orientation. In both groups, a few cases were observed of potentially unprofessional content in relation to the use of alcohol, nudity and material of a salacious nature.

Conclusion

Although most of the UK and Italy RNs appear to be aware of the risks posed by their online exposure, their online activity indicates the blurring of their personal and professional lives; this is posing new ethical, legal and professional challenges to members of the nursing profession. Further research and debate is encouraged at national and international level.
Psychometric properties of a Swedish version of the Consequences of Screening – Breast Cancer questionnaire
Authors: Bolejko Anetta , Brodersen John , Zackrisson Sophia , Wann‐Hansson Christine , Hagell Peter
Published: March 2014

Aim

To evaluate the psychometric properties of a questionnaire addressing psychosocial consequences of false‐positive mammographic screening.

Background

The Consequences of Screening ‐ Breast Cancer and Lung Cancer questionnaires target psychosocial consequences of false‐positive cancer screening. The Consequences of Screening ‐ Breast Cancer questionnaire and ten items not considered lung cancer specific from the Lung Cancer questionnaire have been adapted for use in mammographic screening in Sweden, but remain psychometrically untested.

Design

Instrument development paper with psychometric cross‐sectional and test–retest design.

Methods

Twelve scales of a Swedish questionnaire version were tested by the Rasch model and traditional psychometric methods. Women with false‐positive (Group I, n = 640) and negative (Group II, n = 802) screening mammography responded to the study questionnaire and the Nottingham Health Profile during 2009–2011.

Results

Iterative analyses resulted in nine scales demonstrating Rasch model fit, but all scales exhibited poor targeting with relatively large floor effects. Corrected item‐total correlations exceeded the recommended criterion. Score differences between Groups I and II and correlations with Nottingham Health Profile sections followed an expected pattern. Cronbach's α and test–retest reliability was acceptable for group‐level assessments for ten and seven scales, respectively.

Conclusions

Five scales (Sense of dejection, Anxiety, Behavioural, Sleep and Existential values) of the Swedish questionnaire version demonstrated the best psychometric properties. Other scales should be used more cautiously. Although filling an important gap, causes of concern were identified across scales. The questionnaire should therefore be considered for group‐level assessments rather than for measurement of individual degrees of psychosocial consequences.
Atopy patch test with Aleuroglyphus ovatus antigen in patients with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Lorenzini D. , Pires M. , Aoki V. , Takaoka R. , Souza R.L. , Vasconcellos C.
Published: March 2014

Background

Epicutaneous test made with dust mite antigens.

Objective

Evaluation of the response of the epicutaneous test with Aleuroglyphus ovatus antigen in atopic patients.

Methods

We patch tested 119 individuals, 48 with atopic dermatitis, 50 with respiratory allergy and 21 healthy controls. We compare the positive response frequency to a closed patch test using Aleuroglyphus ovatus antigen in different concentrations and 48 and 96h reading times among those individuals.

Results

Six patients with atopic dermatitis (12.5%) and 4 with respiratory atopy (8.0%) had positive reactions. None of the non‐atopic controls had a positive response. As the antigen concentration raised, the number of positive reactions to epicutaneous test raised as well.

Conclusion

Our data suggest a positive relation between Atopy Patch Test positive responses and Aleuroglyphus ovatus antigen concentration, no matter the kind of the atopic clinical expression.
Trophic flexibility by roach Rutilus rutilus in novel habitats facilitates rapid growth and invasion success
Authors: Hayden B. , Massa‐gallucci A. , Harrod C. , O'grady M. , Caffrey J. , Kelly‐quinn M.
Published: March 2014

Stable isotope and gut content analyses, in conjunction with backcalculated
length‐at‐age estimates of growth, were employed to examine the relationship between trophic ecology and growth
rate of a successful invader, Rutilus rutilus, in eight lakes in Ireland. The data revealed that R. rutilus was a trophic generalist in Irish lakes. It utilized a greater proportion of pelagic resources in mesotrophic lakes than in eutrophic lakes, potentially due to a greater density of benthic macroinvertebrates in eutrophic systems. The species was characterized by a large dietary and isotopic niche width and high temporal and spatial variations in diet. Growth rates were typical of those found in the native range of the species and were unrelated to either lake productivity or fish's diet. A generalist trophic ecology confers significant advantages on an invasive species, allowing it to exploit a variety of novel resources and fluctuations in prey availability.
THE PRICE‐TAKER EFFECT ON THE VALUATION OF EXECUTIVE STOCK OPTIONS
Authors: Yang Tung‐Hsiao , Chance Don M.
Published: March 2014

Because of vesting requirements and the absence of liquidity, executive stock options are valued at less, and often far less, than Black–Scholes–Merton values. We argue that this view assumes the subtle condition that option holders are price takers and therefore cannot influence the payoffs of their options, an assumption that clearly contradicts the very reason for granting options. We build a model to incorporate the executive's effort and perception of his quality, private beliefs, and confidence to show that these options are worth considerably more than previously believed and under some conditions even more than Black–Scholes–Merton values.
Quality Optimization of Canned Potatoes during Rotary Autoclaving
Authors: Rattan Navneet Singh , Ramaswamy Hosahalli S.
Published: March 2014

The study was conducted to evaluate the optimal processing conditions for maximizing quality retention in canned potatoes during agitation thermal processing. A range of process parameters employed in this study were: retort temperature 115–125C; rotation speed 20 rpm; can headspace 10 mm; and still and agitating modes (end‐over‐end, fixed and free axial). Potatoes were prepared as 1.6 × 1.6 × 1.6‐cm cubes, filled in 307 × 409 cans, covered with 1% aqueous solution of carboxy‐methyl cellulose and the processing times were adjusted to provide an equivalent lethality (Fo value) of 10 min. During the study, selected color (L, b, h angle and ΔE) parameters and textural (hardness, gumminess and chewiness) attributes, as well as the heat penetration parameters (fh and jch) and cooking quality index (Co/Fo) were evaluated. The study indicated that potato particles processed at higher temperatures and under better agitating conditions demonstrated better quality retention.

Practical Applications

The food processing industries aim at achieving balance between the conducive and harmful effects of the thermal processing. Hence, for designing a thermal process, time–temperature combinations are chosen to impart required lethal effect to ensure microbiological safety and to simultaneously reduce the extent of thermal damage to color, texture and nutritional attributes. Optimization on the basis of color and texture becomes even more important because acceptance or rejection of most foods rely on the mouth feel and external appearance. Hence, in this study, the color and textural attributes were studied during retorting of potatoes and the optimal conditions for preparing canned potatoes were identified.
Use of Fulvic Acid or Sodium Silicate‐Based Sanitizers to Inactivate Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella Typhimurium and Pseudomonas aeruginosa on Food Contact Surfaces
Authors: Zhu Libin , Chirase Norbert , Ravishankar Sadhana
Published: March 2014

The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy of five fulvic acid‐based and one sodium silicate‐based sanitizers against Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella Typhimurium DT104 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa on food contact surfaces. Minimum inhibitory concentration assays were conducted to determine the lowest effective concentration of sanitizers A, B, C, D, E and F against each bacterium. Stainless steel, high‐density polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride and polycarbonate coupons were inoculated with the culture of one of the test organisms and dried for 1 h. The coupons were then sprayed with sanitizer A, B, C, E or F, and treated for 2 min. Samples were taken to enumerate the surviving organisms. The sanitizers reduced L. monocytogenes, S. Typhimurium and P. aeruginosa population by 2–6, 2.7–5.8 and 2–6 log cfu/coupon on food contact surfaces, respectively. In general, the tested sanitizers were the most effective on P. aeruginosa, followed by S. Typhimurium and then L. monocytogenes.

Practical Applications

Microorganisms attached to food contact surfaces can be a source of contamination of foods, leading to spoilage and food safety issues. Chemical disinfection with sanitizers is generally used to reduce the microbial contamination on food contact surfaces. Fulvic acid or sodium silicate‐based sanitizers have been developed for use in food processing plants, but studies on the effects of these new sanitizers on food contact surfaces are limited. Our results demonstrated that sodium silicate‐based sanitizer A and fulvic acid‐based sanitizers B, C, E and F effectively reduced L. monocytogenes, S. Typhimurium and P. aeruginosa populations on stainless steel, high‐density polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride and polycarbonate coupon surfaces. These results may help the food industry in selecting alternative sanitizers for cleaning food contact surfaces.
Progress in TILLING as a tool for functional genomics and improvement of crops
Authors: Chen Liang , Hao Liugen , Parry Martin A. J. , Phillips Andrew L. , Hu Yin‐Gang
Published: March 2014

Food security is a global concern and substantial yield increases in crops are required to feed the growing world population. Mutagenesis is an important tool in crop improvement and is free of the regulatory restrictions imposed on genetically modified organisms. Targeting Induced Local Lesions in Genomes (TILLING), which combines traditional chemical mutagenesis with high‐throughput genome‐wide screening for point mutations in desired genes, offers a powerful way to create novel mutant alleles for both functional genomics and improvement of crops. TILLING is generally applicable to genomes whether small or large, diploid or even allohexaploid, and shows great potential to address the major challenge of linking sequence information to the function of genes and to modulate key traits for plant breeding. TILLING has been successfully applied in many crop species and recent progress in TILLING is summarized below, especially on the developments in mutation detection technology, application of TILLING in gene functional studies and crop breeding. The potential of TILLING/EcoTILLING for functional genetics and crop improvement is also discussed. Furthermore, a small‐scale forward strategy including backcross and selfing was conducted to release the potential mutant phenotypes masked in M2 (or M3) plants.
School‐Wide Programs Aimed at Obesity Among Latino Youth in the United States: A Review of the Evidence
Authors: Holub Christina K. , Lobelo Felipe , Mehta Setoo M. , Sánchez Romero Luz M. , Arredondo Elva M. , Elder John P.
Published: March 2014

BACKGROUND

In the past 30 years, childhood obesity rates have tripled, disproportionately affecting Latino children. From 2003 to 2006, 43.0% of Mexican‐American children were classified as overweight compared with 36.9% of non‐Hispanic Whites. Obesity interventions targeting children can have a significant impact in the school setting.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review of evidence‐based, obesity‐related interventions in the school setting. Inclusion criteria included: having 50% or more Latino children in the study, and usage of obesity‐related outcomes (eg, body mass index [BMI] z‐score, weight, and waist circumference, and body fat).

RESULTS

The majority of identified studies included interventions that targeted both nutrition and physical activity. The most successful interventions were randomized, controlled trials or quasi‐experimental controlled studies and had few limitations in execution in the study; however, overall results were mixed. There are promising results for interventions targeting Latino children who are already overweight or obese, but evidence of effectiveness is sparse.

CONCLUSIONS

This review is the first to gather evidence‐based research systematically aimed at obesity‐related interventions in the school setting that are specifically focused on Latino children. Results of the review are promising and timely, given the exigency of the needed evidence, and the current state of childhood obesity in the United States.
Effects of correcting for prematurity on cognitive test scores in childhood
Authors: Wilson‐Ching Michelle , Pascoe Leona , Doyle Lex W , Anderson Peter J
Published: March 2014

Aims

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that test scores should be corrected for prematurity up to 3 years of age, but this practice varies greatly in both clinical and research settings. The aim of this study was to contrast the effects of using chronological age and those of using corrected age on measures of cognitive outcome across childhood.

Methods

A theoretical model was constructed using norms from the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Third Edition; the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence, Third Edition Australian; and the Wechsler Intelligence Scales for Children, Fourth Edition Australian. Baseline scores representing different levels of functioning (70, below average; 85, borderline; and 100, average) were recalculated using the normative data for ages 6 months to 16 years to account for 1, 2, 3 and 4 months of prematurity. The model created depicted the difference in standardised scores between chronological and corrected age.

Results

Compared with scores corrected for prematurity, the absolute reduction in scores using chronological age was greater for increasing degree of prematurity, younger ages at assessment and higher baseline scores and was substantial even beyond 3 years of age. However, the pattern was erratic, with considerable fluctuation evident across different ages and baseline scores.

Conclusions

Chronological age results in a lowering of scores at all ages for preterm‐born subjects that is greater in the first few years and in those born at earlier gestational ages. Whether or not to correct for prematurity depends upon the context of the assessment.
Phylogeography of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau endemic alpine herb Pomatosace filicula (Primulaceae)
Authors: WANG Gai‐Ni , HE Xin‐Yu , MIEHE Georg , MAO Kang‐Shan
Published: March 2014

In order to trace the response of alpine plants on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau (QTP) to the Quaternary climate oscillations, the phylogeographic history of Pomatosace filicula Maxim. was investigated in the present study. Based on sequence variations of two maternally inherited plastid markers, matK and trnH‐psbA, and the biparentally inherited nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (nrITS), we estimated the population genetic structure, lineage divergence timescale, and population dynamics of P. filicula. Seven plastid haplotypes and two nrITS genotypes were identified across the range‐wide sampling of 200 individuals from 24 populations. Although AMOVA revealed a high level of differentiation among populations (FST = 0.560), no significant phylogeographic structure was detected (NST = 0.503, GST = 0.518, P > 0.05). Molecular dating suggested that the divergences between major plastid lineages and nrITS genotypes occurred during the early and middle Pleistocene, and the middle Pleistocene, respectively. This species most likely survived at multiple unglaciated sites on the QTP during the Last Glacial Maximum, with most of these sites located above 4000 m a.s.l. The species probably experienced range expansion at its distribution fringe, but demographic tests did not suggest significant population size changes. We proposed that pronounced effective gene flow (Nem = 0.393) and short generation time may have obscured the phylogeographic and demographic patterns of this species. Our findings will shed new light on the Quaternary evolutionary history of the alpine flora of the QTP.
Accelerated evolution of early angiosperms: Evidence from ranunculalean phylogeny by integrating living and fossil data
Authors: Wang Wei , Dilcher David L. , Sun Ge , Wang Hong‐Shan , Chen Zhi‐Duan
Published: March 2014

The new discovery of angiosperm remains in the Jehol Biota of northeastern China contributes to our understanding of the origin and early evolution of flowering plants. The earliest eudicot genus with reproductive organs,Leefructus, was recently documented from the Lower Cretaceous Yixian Formation at 125.8–123.0 Ma, and was reconsidered to be close to the extant family Ranunculaceae based on gross morphology. However, this hypothesis has not been tested using a cladistic approach. To determine the possible allies ofLeefructuswithin extant eudicots, we constructed a 66 morphological data matrix. Molecular and morphological analyses of extant Ranunculales combined with the fossil suggest that it has an affinity with the Ranunculaceae. The earliest fossil record of the eudicots is 127–125 Ma based on tricolpate pollen grains. Thus, we suggest a hypothesis that the basal eudicots might have experienced an accelerated evolution and diversification during the latest Barremian and earliest Aptian, leading to the stem groups of at least six extant families or lineages, 10–15 Myr earlier than currently documented. Angiosperms have undergone multiple uneven pulses of radiation since their origin. Many key character innovations occurred in different stages that could have triggered those radiations in concert with various biotic and abiotic factors.
Early predictors of antiviral treatment response in liver transplant recipients with recurrent hepatitis C genotype 1
Authors: Campos‐Varela I. , Esteban J. I. , Bes M. , Caralt M. , Allende H. , Rodríguez‐Frías F. , Salcedo M. T. , Sauleda S. , Charco R. , Guardia J. , Esteban R. , Castells L.
Published: March 2014

The success of current antiviral treatment for hepatitis C virus (HCV) recurrence in liver transplant (LT) recipients remains limited. We aimed at evaluating the value of IL28B genotype and early viral kinetics to predict response to standard treatment in the transplant setting. We retrospectively evaluated 104 LT recipients treated for HCV genotype 1 recurrence between 2001 and 2010. Baseline variables, including IL28B genotype, and early viral kinetics were compared among patients who did or did not achieve a sustained virological response (SVR). Logistic regression analyses of candidate variables were conducted to generate a reliable predictive model based on the minimum set of variables. Twenty‐nine (28%) achieved an SVR. On multivariate analysis, the magnitude of HCV RNA decline at 4 weeks (OR: 3.74, 95% CI: 1.64–9.39; P = 0.003) and treatment compliance (OR: 35.27, 95% CI: 3.35–365.54; P = 0.003) were the only independent predictors of SVR. Favourable recipient IL28B genotype significantly correlates with virological response at week 4 (OR 3.23; 95% CI, 1.12–9.15; P = 0.03). By logistic regression analysis, a model including donor age, recipient rs12979860 genotype and viral load at 4 weeks showed the best predictive value for SVR with an area under the receiver operating curve of 0.861. Favourable recipient IL28B genotype strongly correlates with the viral response at week 4 which is the strongest predictor of response. The combination of recipient IL28B genotype and donor age with the week 4 response reliably estimates the probability of SVR early on‐treatment and may facilitate therapeutic strategies incorporating new antiviral agents.
Are oxidative stress mechanisms the common denominator in the progression from hepatic steatosis towards non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)?
Authors: Tariq Zoon , Green Charlotte J. , Hodson Leanne
Published: March 2014

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is not a single disease entity, rather it describes a spectrum of liver conditions that range from fatty liver (steatosis) to more severe steatosis coupled with marked inflammation and fibrosis [non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)] to severe liver disease such as cirrhosis and possibly hepatocellular carcinoma. Obesity, notably abdominal obesity, is a common risk factor for NAFLD. The pathogenesis from steatosis to NASH is poorly understood, and the ‘two hit’ model, as suggested nearly two decades ago, provides a feasible starting point for characterization of underlying mechanisms. This review will examine the oxidative stress factors (‘triggers’) which have been implicated as a ‘second hit’ in the development of primary NASH. It would be reasonable to assume that multiple, rather than single, pro‐oxidative intracellular and extracellular triggers act in conjunction promoting oxidative stress that drives the development of NASH. It is likely that the common denominator of these pro‐oxidative triggers is mitochondrial dysfunction. Understanding the contribution of each of these ‘triggers’ is an essential step in starting to understand and elucidate the mechanisms responsible for progression from steatosis to NASH, thus enabling the development of therapeutic targeting to prevent NASH development and progression.
Autotomy in porcelain crabs is an effective escape mechanism from rockfish predation
Authors: Knope Matthew L. , Larson Ralph J.
Published: March 2014

Porcelain crabs possess a ‘hair‐trigger’ propensity to autotomize their chelipeds (claws), and laboratory studies have demonstrated that this ability is highly effective in avoiding predation from other crabs. However, porcelain crabs are also subject to predation from fishes, which use a very different means of capture. In this study, we investigated whether autotomy in porcelain crabs is also effective against predation by fishes. To do this, we examined stomach‐contents data from four common species of kelp‐forest rockfishes and determined the frequency of disassociated chelipeds (those with no associated bodies) in porcelain crabs and in brachyuran crabs, which do not readily autotomize their chelipeds. We found that disassociated chelipeds of porcelain crabs were six times as common as those of brachyuran crabs (35% of the remains of all porcelain crabs versus 6% of the remains of all brachyuran crabs). We interpret this difference to be evidence that, through autotomy, porcelain crabs escaped ingestion of their entire bodies, and thus certain mortality, at a higher rate than did brachyuran crabs. We conclude that autotomy constituted an effective escape strategy from rockfish predation. This evidence, in conjunction with previous studies, suggests that autotomy of chelipeds in porcelain crabs is an effective anti‐predatory strategy against phylogenetically disparate predatory groups.
Fine‐scale diet of the Australian sea lion (Neophoca cinerea) using DNA‐based analysis of faeces
Authors: Peters Kristian J. , Ophelkeller Kathy , Bott Nathan J. , Deagle Bruce E. , Jarman Simon N. , Goldsworthy Simon D.
Published: March 2014

We applied DNA‐based faecal analysis to determine the diet of female Australian sea lions (n = 12) from two breeding colonies in South Australia. DNA dietary components of fish and cephalopods were amplified using the polymerase chain reaction and mitochondrial DNA primers targeting the short (~100 base pair) section of the 16S gene region. Prey diversity was determined by sequencing ~50 amplicons generated from clone libraries developed for each individual. Faecal DNA was also combined and cloned from multiple individuals at each colony and fish diversity determined. Diets varied between individuals and sites. Overall, DNA analysis identified a broad diversity of prey comprising 23 fish and five cephalopod taxa, including many species not previously described as prey of the Australian sea lion. Labridae (wrasse), Monacanthidae (leatherjackets) and Mullidae (goat fish) were important fish prey taxa. Commonly identified cephalopods were Octopodidae (octopus), Loliginidae (calamary squid) and Sepiidae (cuttlefish). Comparisons of fish prey diversity determined by pooling faecal DNA from several samples provided a reasonable but incomplete resemblance (55–71%) to the total fish diversity identified across individual diets at each site. Interpretation of diet based on the recovery of prey hard‐parts identified one cephalopod beak (Octopus sp.) and one fish otolith (Parapriacanthus elongatus). The present study highlights the value of DNA‐based analyses and their capabilities to enhance information of trophic interactions.
A test of the metabolic theory of ecology with two longevity data sets reveals no common cause of scaling in biological times
Authors: Lemaître Jean‐François , Müller Dennis W. H. , Clauss Marcus
Published: March 2014

The metabolic theory of ecology (MTE) predicts that biological times should universally scale to body mass M as M0.25. However, support for this prediction came principally from non‐phylogenetically controlled studies, whereas more recent analyses, which take the degree of shared ancestry between species into account, have revealed that both length of the gestation period and time to first reproduction do not follow this rule.

In the present study, we test this prediction of MTE on maximum longevity using two commonly accessible sources of information in zoology and ecology (AnAge and PanTHERIA data bases) that allow us to assess the scaling relation of longevity in more than 1200 mammalian species. We performed our analyses using both ordinary least square (OLS) and phylogenetic generalized least square (PGLS) regressions to assess the importance of controlling for phylogeny in such analyses.

Our results revealed clear discrepancies between analyses using the AnAge and PanTHERIA data bases. The scaling of longevity was consistently higher with the PanTHERIA than with the AnAge data base. However, we found that with both data sets, PGLS models performed better than OLS models, and the scaling exponent of longevity is, in nearly all cases, lower than the exponent of 0.25 predicted by the MTE. In addition, we provided evidence that gestation length and longevity do not scale isometrically (i.e. with a scaling exponent of 1.0) with each other as we would expect if these two life history traits had – perhaps due to the same biological principle – the same scaling exponent.

Our findings contradict the MTE and suggest that more complex processes than simple relationships with metabolism or body size control the evolution of longevity. Moreover, they reveal differences in relationships of gestation length and longevity that are probably tightly dependent on phylogeny.
Vigorous Exercise Training Improves Reactivity of Cerebral Arterioles and Reduces Brain Injury Following Transient Focal Ischemia
Authors: Arrick Denise M. , Yang Shu , Li Chun , Cananzi Sergio , Mayhan William G.
Published: March 2014

Objective

Our objective was to examine whether vigorous exercise training (VExT) could influence nitric oxide synthase (NOS)‐dependent vasodilation and transient focal ischemia‐induced brain injury. Rats were divided into sedentary (SED) or VExT groups.

Materials and Methods

Exercise was carried out 5 days/week for a period of 8–10 weeks. First, we measured responses of pial arterioles to an eNOS‐dependent (ADP), an nNOS‐dependent (NMDA) and a NOS‐independent (nitroglycerin) agonist in SED and VExT rats. Second, we measured infarct volume in SED and VExT rats following middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). Third, we measured superoxide levels in brain tissue of SED and VExT rats under basal and stimulated conditions.

Results

We found that eNOS‐ and nNOS‐dependent, but not NOS‐independent vasodilation, was increased in VExT compared to SED rats, and this could be inhibited with L‐NMMA in both groups. In addition, we found that VExT reduced infarct volume following MCAO when compared to SED rats. Further, superoxide levels were similar in brain tissue from SED and VExT rats under basal and stimulated conditions.

Conclusions

We suggest that VExT potentiates NOS‐dependent vascular reactivity and reduces infarct volume following MCAO via a mechanism that appears to be independent of oxidative stress, but presumably related to an increase in the contribution of nitric oxide.
On the Probabilistic and Physical Consistency of Traffic Random Variables and Models
Authors: Castillo Enrique , Calviño Aida , Nogal María , Lo Hong K.
Published: March 2014

In this article we deal with the probabilistic and physical consistency of traffic‐related random variables and models. We analyze and discuss the conditions for a model to be consistent from two different points of view: probabilistic and physical (dimensional analysis). The first, leads us to the concept of stability in general and reproductivity in particular because, for example, origin–destination (OD) and link flows are the sum of route flows and route travel times are the sum of link travel times. This implies stability with respect to sums (reproductivity). Normal models are justified because when the number of summands increases the averages approach the normal distribution. Similarly, stability with respect to minimum or maximum operations arises in practice. From the dimensional analysis point of view, some models are demonstrated not to be convenient. In particular, it is shown that some families of distributions are valid only for dimensionless variables. All these and other problems are discussed and some proposed models in the literature are analyzed from these two points of view. When some families fail to satisfy the desired properties, alternative models are provided via extension of the original families. Finally, some simple examples and conclusions are given to summarize the analysis.
Water Distribution System Computer‐Aided Design by Agent Swarm Optimization
Authors: Montalvo I. , Izquierdo J. , Pérez‐García R. , Herrera M.
Published: March 2014

Optimal design of water distribution systems (WDSs), including the sizing of components, quality control, reliability, renewal, and rehabilitation strategies, etc., is a complex problem in water engineering that requires robust methods of optimization. Classical methods of optimization are not well suited for analyzing highly dimensional, multimodal, nonlinear problems, especially given inaccurate, noisy, discrete, and complex data. Agent Swarm Optimization (ASO) is a novel paradigm that exploits swarm intelligence and borrows some ideas from multiagent‐based systems. It is aimed at supporting decision‐making processes by solving multiobjective optimization problems. ASO offers robustness through a framework where various population‐based algorithms coexist. The ASO framework is described and used to solve the optimal design of WDS. The approach allows engineers to work in parallel with the computational algorithms to force the recruitment of new searching elements, thus contributing to the solution process with expert‐based proposals.
The PAS domain‐containing histidine kinase RpfS is a second sensor for the diffusible signal factor of Xanthomonas campestris
Authors: An Shi‐Qi , Allan John H. , McCarthy Yvonne , Febrer Melanie , Dow J. Maxwell , Ryan Robert P.
Published: March 2014

A cell–cell signalling system mediated by the fatty acid signal DSF controls the virulence of Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris (Xcc) to plants. The synthesis and recognition of the DSF signal depends upon different Rpf proteins. DSF signal generation requires RpfF whereas signal perception and transduction depends upon the sensor RpfC and regulator RpfG. Detailed analyses of the regulatory roles of different Rpf proteins have suggested the occurrence of further sensors for DSF. Here we have used a mutagenesis approach coupled with high‐resolution transcriptional analysis to identify XC_2579 (RpfS) as a second sensor for DSF in Xcc. RpfS is a complex sensor kinase predicted to have multiple Per/Arnt/Sim (PAS) domains, a histidine kinase domain and a C‐terminal receiver (REC) domain. Isothermal calorimetry showed that DSF bound to the isolated N‐terminal PAS domain with a Kd of 1.4 μM. RpfS controlled expression of a sub‐set of genes distinct from those controlled by RpfC to include genes involved in type IV secretion and chemotaxis. Mutation of XC_2579 was associated with a reduction in virulence of Xcc to Chinese Radish when assayed by leaf spraying but not by leaf inoculation, suggesting a role for RpfS‐controlled factors in the epiphytic phase of the disease cycle.
Polymorphisms in the ITS rDNA regions for differentiating strains of the Trichophyton mentagrophytes complex in Sfax‐Tunisia
Authors: Drira I. , Neji S. , Hadrich I. , Trabelsi H. , Sellami H. , Cheikhrouhou F. , Guidara R. , Makni F. , Ayadi A.
Published: March 2014

The Trichophyton mentagrophytes complex is the main cause of superficial mycoses in humans and animals. Molecular research has provided useful insights into the taxonomy of this complex to overcome the challenges with conventional diagnostics. The aim of this study was to identify, type and differentiate anthropophilic and zoophilic species of the T. mentagrophytes complex. Sixty clinical samples identified as T. mentagrophytes by morphological characteristics were isolated using polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism and sequence analysis of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions. The identification of our strains by conventional methods was confirmed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) sequencing in 93.34% of the cases. The strains under investigation were recategorised as T. rubrum (Tr2711). In addition, PCR products were independently digested with the restriction endonucleases, MvaI and HinfI, to produce a single dominant profile for T. interdigitale. ITS sequence analysis revealed a polymorphism in the ITS1 and 5.8S regions. Analysis of the consensus sequences distinguished four types of genotypes among our T. interdigitale species. Moreover, ITS type I was the dominant genotype characterising the anthropophilic variant of T. interdigitale. The phylogenetic study showed that only 5% of our strains were zoophilic. PCR sequencing was useful for distinguishing anthropophilic and zoophilic species of T. interdigitale, in which the differentiation is relevant because it helps to prescribe the correct treatment and to identify the surrounding source of infection.
Engineering fire blight resistance into the apple cultivar ‘Gala’ using the FB_MR5 CC‐NBS‐LRR resistance gene of Malus × robusta 5
Authors: Broggini Giovanni A. L. , Wöhner Thomas , Fahrentrapp Johannes , Kost Thomas D. , Flachowsky Henryk , Peil Andreas , Hanke Maria‐Viola , Richter Klaus , Patocchi Andrea , Gessler Cesare
Published: March 2014

The fire blight susceptible apple cultivar Malus × domestica Borkh. cv. ‘Gala’ was transformed with the candidate fire blight resistance gene FB_MR5 originating from the crab apple accession Malus × robusta 5 (Mr5). A total of five different transgenic lines were obtained. All transgenic lines were shown to be stably transformed and originate from different transgenic events. The transgenic lines express the FB_MR5 either driven by the constitutive CaMV 35S promoter and the ocs terminator or by its native promoter and terminator sequences. Phenotyping experiments were performed with Mr5‐virulent and Mr5‐avirulent strains of Erwinia amylovora, the causal agent of fire blight. Significantly less disease symptoms were detected on transgenic lines after inoculation with two different Mr5‐avirulent E. amylovora strains, while significantly more shoot necrosis was observed after inoculation with the Mr5‐virulent mutant strain ZYRKD3_1. The results of these experiments demonstrated the ability of a single gene isolated from the native gene pool of apple to protect a susceptible cultivar from fire blight. Furthermore, this gene is confirmed to be the resistance determinant of Mr5 as the transformed lines undergo the same gene‐for‐gene interaction in the host–pathogen relationship Mr5–E. amylovora.
New Japanese neonatal anthropometric charts for gestational age at birth
Authors: Itabashi Kazuo , Miura Fumihiro , Uehara Ritei , Nakamura Yoshikazu
Published: March 2014

Background

More than 10 years have passed since the previous Japanese neonatal growth charts were published, therefore the aim of this study was to develop an updated set of Japanese neonatal growth charts.

Methods

We used data from the registry database of the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology from 2003 until 2005. A total of 150 471 singleton live births without stillbirth or severe congenital malformation were enrolled in the preliminary analysis. It was found that the distribution of the 10th centile charts based on these subjects was skewed toward lower birthweight for preterm infants, because of the significantly lower birthweight in the 10th centile in neonates delivered by cesarean section than those delivered vaginally. Therefore, the data of subjects delivered by cesarean section were also excluded.

Results

Finally, 104 748 singleton vaginal births at 22–41 weeks of gestation were used to construct a new set of Japanese neonatal anthropometric charts. The birthweight chart is parity and sex specific. The differences between the Japanese fetal growth chart and the new neonatal birthweight chart were small.

Conclusion

The present new neonatal anthropometric charts may reveal unrestricted growth pattern mimicking fetal growth. Use of these charts may result in recognition of abnormal fetal growth and risk in preterm infants. Further studies are needed to evaluate the risk for adverse neonatal and long‐term outcome among small‐for‐gestational‐age infants using these neonatal charts.
Aquaporin water channel in the salivary glands of the Formosan subterranean termite Coptotermes formosanus is predominant in workers and absent in soldiers
Authors: Kambara Kohei , Nagae Tomone , Ohmura Wakako , Azuma Masaaki
Published: March 2014

Termite society is unique because the worker caste fetches and carries free water, utilizing it as a solvent for nest construction and gallery building and to maintain wetness for their nestmates. Such water management in a social organization relies largely upon the function of the workers in the colony, as well as on the individuals controlling the location and movement of water inside their bodies. The movement of water via aquaporins (AQPs; water channels) into and out of cells is a key feature of the numerous physiological functions related to whole‐insect water balance. In the present study, the homologue of the water‐specific Drosophila AQP [Drosophila integral protein (DRIP)] is characterized in workers of the Formosan subterranean termite Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae), a highly active wood decomposer. Immunoblot analysis of DRIP‐type AQP using an antibody from the silkworm Bombyx mori reveals that the Coptotermes DRIP (formerly cloned as ‘CfAQP1’) with a molecular mass of approximately 25.7 kDa is expressed predominantly in the salivary (labial) gland of the workers. The Coptotermes DRIP is present at the basal plasma membrane of the parietal cells, as demonstrated by immunocytochemistry. By contrast, there is no DRIP detected within the salivary glands of soldier termites, and neither caste expresses DRIP in their labial gland reservoir (water sac), a tissue that is suggested to have a function as a water sink. The AQP present in the salivary glands is of physiological importance with respect to salivation, aiding in the secretion of cellulolytic enzymes for wood ingestion by the workers of the subterranean termite.
A new cryptic species of theChrysoperla carneagroup (Neuroptera:Chrysopidae) from westernAsia: parallel speciation without ecological adaptation
Authors: HENRY CHARLES S. , BROOKS STEPHEN J. , JOHNSON JAMES B. , MOCHIZUKI ATSUSHI , DUELLI PETER
Published: March 2014

Parallel (or convergent) evolution of vibrational mating songs between species confined to different continents has been found several times in theChrysoperla carneaspecies‐group of cryptic (morphologically indistinguishable) green lacewings. Repeated parallel speciation resulting in taxa that differ in duetting songs but not in appearance or ecology suggests an atypical mode of speciation, one that need not involve ecological adaptation. Here we describe an additional example of convergent song phenotypes reflecting parallel nonadaptive speciation, between the commonNorthAmerican speciesChrysoperla plorabunda(Fitch) and a newly discovered species that appears to be widespread in westernAsia. To support the hypothesis of parallel evolution, we describe the song of the new species in detail, comparing it to that ofC. plorabundaand demonstrate their acoustical similarity. Results of song playback trials are then presented, showing that the songs are also functionally (behaviourally) indistinguishable between individuals of both species and could not prevent hybridisation if the two species were sympatric. We demonstrate that the new species is very similar in morphology and ecology not only toC. plorabunda, but also to at least four other species in thecarnea‐group that co‐occur with it in westernAsia. To reject the alternative hypothesis thatC. plorabundaand the new species are alike simply due to common ancestry, we show that they occupy relatively distant positions in a phylogenetic analysis of 4630 base pairs of protein‐coding mitochondrialDNA. We then formally describe the new species asChrysoperla heidariisp.n., including with this description observations of its behaviour, ecology and life history.

This published work has been registered in ZooBank,http://zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:60C0FFC5‐92B9‐4C20‐9FDF‐561EB2764F16.
Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia with an atypical granulomatous response after kidney transplantation
Authors: Ramalho J. , Bacelar Marques I.D. , Aguirre A.R. , Pierrotti L.C. , de Paula F.J. , Nahas W.C. , David‐Neto E.
Published: March 2014

Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP) continues to be a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in kidney transplant recipients. Granulomatous PCP is an unusual histological presentation that has been described in a variety of immunosuppressive conditions. Previous studies have demonstrated an association between granulomatous disorders and hypercalcemia, the purported mechanism of which is extrarenal production of 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D by activated macrophages. Here, we report a case of granulomatous formation in a kidney transplant recipient with PCP who presented with hypercalcemia and suppressed parathyroid hormone, both of which resolved after successful treatment of the pneumonia. In immunocompromised patients, pulmonary infection associated with hypercalcemia should raise the suspicion of PCP and other granulomatous disorders.