bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Descriptive sensory analysis of Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena DOP and Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Reggio Emilia DOP
Authors: Zeppa Giuseppe , Gambigliani Zoccoli Mario , Nasi Enrico , Masini Giovanni , Meglioli Giuseppe , Zappino Matteo
Published: May 2013

BACKGROUND

Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale (ABT) is a typical Italian vinegar available in two different forms: Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena DOP (ABTM) and Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Reggio Emilia DOP (ABTRE). ABT is obtained by alcoholic fermentation and acetic bio‐oxidation of cooked grape must and aged at least 12 years in wooden casks and is known and sold around the world. Despite this widespread recognition, data on sensory characteristics of these products are very scarce. Therefore a descriptive analysis was conducted to define a lexicon for the ABT sensory profile and to create a simple, stable and reproducible synthetic ABT for training panellists.

RESULTS

A lexicon of 20 sensory parameters was defined and validated and a synthetic ABT was prepared as standard reference. Simple standards for panellist training were also defined and the sensory profiles of ABTM and ABTRE were obtained.

CONCLUSION

The obtained results confirm that descriptive analysis can be used for the sensory characterisation of ABT and that the sensory profiles of ABTM and ABTRE are very different. Furthermore, the results demonstrate that a lexicon and proper standard references are essential for describing the sensory qualities of ABT both for technical purposes and to protect the product from commercial fraud. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Evaluation of matrix effects in different multipesticide residue analysis methods using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry, including an automated two‐dimensional cleanup approach
Authors: Kittlaus Stefan , Kempe Günther , Speer Karl
Published: May 2013

Pesticide residue analysis is an important part of food quality control. Three of the most widely used methods are the DFG S19 (extraction with acetone), the ChemElut method (extraction with methanol), and QuEChERS (quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, safe; acetonitrile‐based). Despite many developments in the field of sample preparation, matrix effects are still one of the most disturbing problems in routine analysis. In this study, we compare the matrix effects in LC–MS analysis after using these three methods in pesticide analysis. Using postcolumn infusion, we were able to visualize all suppressions over the whole chromatogram in matrix‐effect profiles. Recently, we also presented a system for the determination of up to 300 pesticides from various kinds of fruit and vegetables. For the measurement, we injected an aliquot of a raw acetonitrile extract. The subsequent cleanup was carried out fully automated by a multidimensional LC. Matrix compounds and analytes are separated in the first dimension on a hydrophilic interaction LC column. In this study, we also compared this new approach with the classical methods. The matrix‐effect profiles showed less suppression with the hydrophilic interaction LC‐based cleanup. A final evaluation of the partitioning steps of all methods confirmed the benefits of the chromatographic cleanup approach.
Direct Electrospinning of Cellulose–Chitosan Composite Nanofiber
Authors: Devarayan Kesavan , Hanaoka Hirokatsu , Hachisu Masakazu , Araki Jun , Ohguchi Masakatsu , Behera Bijoya Kumar , Ohkawa Kousaku
Published: May 2013

The direct electrospinning of a non‐derivatized cellulose (Cs)–chitosan (Ch) composite nanofiber is described for the first time. Either of two cellulose preparations from different sources, i.e., cotton (CsC) or bamboo (CsB), is fabricated into composite electrospun non‐woven fabrics (ESNWs) with Ch using the trifluoroacetic acid–acetic acid mixed solvent. The total concentration of Cs + Ch in the mixed solvent is fixed at 4.0 wt.‐% with various Cs/Ch weight ratios of 8:2, 5:5 (Figure shows CsB/Ch‐ESNW), and 2:8, which are fabricated into fine fibers in the Cs/Ch‐ESNWs having average diameters mostly <100 nm. The treatment of the composite fibers with an alkaline–alcohol solution produces the water‐resistant ESNWs, which can retain their fine fibrous network in aqueous environments.
Increasing the success of reverse sural flap from proximal part of posterior calf for traumatic foot and ankle reconstruction: Patient selection and surgical refinement
Authors: Tsai Johnlong , Liao Han Tsung , Wang Po Fang , Chen Chien Tzung , Lin Chih Hung
Published: May 2013

In this report, we present our experience on the use of the reverse sural flap for traumatic foot and ankle reconstruction. The patient selection and surgical refinement are discussed. From 2007 to 2010, 11 consecutive patients underwent modified reverse sural flap at the Chang Gung Memorial Hospital. The defects were located at the ankle (three cases), foot (two cases), and heel (six cases). Particular attention was paid to precise patient selection and surgical refinements. Patient selection was based on the lower limb vascular status by palpable distal pedal pulses and ankle brachial index ranging from 0.9 to 1.2. Surgical techniques were refined as precisely locating the perforators of peroneal artery, placing the skin paddle in upper third of leg for a distal region coverage, designing a 7‐cm‐wide adipofascial pedicle with a 2 cm skin paddle on it, preserving the mesentery structure of sural nerve and concomitant artery with or without including gastrocnemius muscles cuff, no tunneling when inset this flap and supercharging with lesser saphenous vein whenever needed. All the flaps survived completely. Only one patient required immediate anastomosis of lesser saphenous vein to local vein around defect in order to relieve the venous congestion during operation. Patients felt diminished but adequate recovery of sense of touch and temperature at the flap. Following the precise patient selection and surgical refinements, the modified reverse sural flap seemed to be a reliable and effective local flap for reconstruction of the soft tissue defects on ankle and foot. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 33:342–349, 2013.
Health Behaviour Change Interventions for the Promotion of Physical Activity in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Cramp Fiona , Berry John , Gardiner Matthew , Smith Felicity , Stephens Daniel
Published: May 2013

Background

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, inflammatory, autoimmune disease with typical onset between the ages of 40 and 50 years. Increasing levels of physical activity (PA) have been shown to decrease inflammation, reduce pain, increase functional ability and improve self‐esteem in people with RA. Health behaviour change (HBC) interventions have recently shown promise in facilitating the promotion of PA within a range of long‐term conditions. There is currently no evidence synthesis relating to HBC interventions to increase PA in the RA population.

Objectives

The aim of the present study was to determine whether HBC interventions can increase PA in people with RA and identify optimal interventions or promising constituent components of the HBC interventions.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted to identify randomized, controlled trials investigating the effect of HBC interventions on PA level in adults with RA. Four review authors independently assessed the methodological quality of studies and extracted data based upon predefined criteria.

Results

Following the application of inclusion/exclusion criteria, three studies remained for inclusion. Two studies reported significant short‐term (<9 months) beneficial effects of HBC upon PA (p < 0.05). Individualized interventions were significantly more effective (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Due to methodological flaws and a lack of comparison with usual care, it is not possible to conclude whether HBC interventions can increase PA in the RA population. Although it is possible to highlight promising elements of HBC interventions, such as goal setting and feedback on performance, further research on all specific components, including information provision, behaviour contracts and problem solving, is required to establish conclusive clinical guidelines. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Responsive core–shell microgels: Synthesis, characterization, and possible applications
Authors: Hellweg Thomas
Published: May 2013

Core–shell microgels are of increasing interest as smart carriers of catalysts, as sensors, or as building blocks for colloidal superstructures. In the context of colloidal assemblies, photonic applications are probably the most promising ones. This progress report presents and discusses the most recent results in this area focusing on the last 2–3 years, and also gives some background information. In addition, potential perspectives of this area will be outlined. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2013, 51, 1073–1083
Human error analysis of the Macondo well blowout
Authors: Smith Patrick , Kincannon Haley , Lehnert Ryan , Wang Qingsheng , D. Larrañaga Michael
Published: May 2013

The Macondo well blowout resulted in 11 fatalities and caused the largest nonintentional oil spill in history. The situation stemmed from a series of human errors through all stages of the project leading up to the blowout and subsequent explosion. These errors include faulty interpretation of signals indicating problems with well and safety system integrity, inappropriate modifications to safety systems, inadequate design of critical systems, failure to provide redundancy in the design stage, failure to adhere to administrative controls for the safe operation, failure to follow the American Petroleum Institute Recommended Practices 75 on drilling mud circulation, and others. Twenty five specific errors have been identified and classified into eight categories. The results show that the majority of the errors are latent errors and caused by poor leadership in the organization or management. In order to resolve these issues it is necessary to create a safety culture in which safety is paramount in operations and facilities. There are many lessons learned from this incident, but the most important lesson is that safety must be a way of life, beginning in the design stage and carrying through the project life cycle. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog 32: –, 2013
Synergistic manipulations of plant and insect defences
Authors: Bingham Georgina , Alptekin Selcan , Delogu Giovanna , Gurkan Oktay , Moores Graham
Published: May 2013

BACKGROUND

It has been demonstrated previously that cis‐jasmone acts as an elicitor of plant defence mechanism(s) by inducing secondary metabolism. It has also been demonstrated that temporal synergism can result in hypersensitive insect pests due to the inhibition of metabolic enzymes.

RESULTS

Laboratory bioassays demonstrated that pre‐exposure of insects by piperonyl butoxide followed by cis‐jasmone treatment of crops, reduced Aphis gossypii on cotton by 80% and Myzus persicae on sweet pepper by 90%. By microencapsulating the cis‐jasmone and combining with piperonyl butoxide, Bemisia tabaci on tomatoes was reduced by 99%. A field trial with microencapsulated cis‐jasmone combined with piperonyl butoxide resulted in a comparable reduction of whitefly egg numbers to that given by the registered rate of imidacloprid, with efficacy of 89% and 93%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

If insect defence enzymes are compromised by piperonyl butoxide whilst plant defence is primed by cis‐jasmone, there are possibilities of an insecticide‐free method of controlling insect pests. The success seems largely dependent upon the toxicity of the plants' secondary chemistry. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Iterative algorithm for maximum‐likelihood estimation of the observation‐error covariance matrix for ensemble‐based filters
Authors: Ueno Genta , Nakamura Nagatomo
Published: May 2013

We present an iterative algorithm for estimating the observation‐noise covariance matrix Rt for ensemble‐based data assimilation. The proposed algorithm enables us to estimate parameters in Rt, the number of which may become exceedingly large for data assimilation. The optimal Rt is estimated based on the maximum likelihood and the algorithm can be described as an expectation‐maximization (EM) algorithm. The key to constructing the algorithm is to obtain the optimality condition of Rt in a closed form. The proposed method estimates Rt, which is adaptive to the current observation yt. We present an application of the proposed method to a coupled atmosphere–ocean model and find that only a few iterations are necessary for convergence. We also find that Rt needs to have some kind of structure to obtain a reasonable covariance matrix using the proposed algorithm.
Analysis of furo[3,2‐c]tetrahydroquinoline and pyrano[3,2‐c]tetrahydroquinoline derivatives as antitumor agents and their metabolites by liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Hou Xueyan , Luo Hao , Zhong Hao , Wu Feng , Zhou Meng , Zhang Wenjuan , Han Xuan , Yan Guoyi , Zhang Mengqi , Lu Lufei , Ding Zhenyu , He Gu , Li Rui
Published: May 2013

RATIONALE

Tetrahydroquinoline derivatives possess a broad range of biological activities. Since few studies have been reported concerning metabolites of furo[3,2‐c]tetrahydroquinoline‐ and pyrano[3,2‐c]tetrahydroquinoline‐derived antitumor agents, the proposed fragmentation mechanisms and their metabolites were investigated in this study.

METHODS

The fragmentation pathways of eight furo[3,2‐c]tetrahydroquinoline derivatives and six pyrano[3,2‐c]tetrahydroquinoline derivatives were analyzed using electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry. Hydrogen/deuterium (H/D) exchange reactions were employed to identify the proposed structures of the product ions. In addition, compounds were incubated with human liver microsomes (HLM) at 37 °C for 8 h and the related metabolites were analyzed by liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (LC/ESI‐MS/MS).

RESULTS

Two protonation modes were summarized and protonation occurring on the oxygen atom of furan or pyran ring could trigger the cleavage of the C–O bond, followed by the elimination of a molecule of water and the substituent at the C2 site, respectively. On the other hand, a proton added to the nitrogen atom may lead to the loss of dihydrofuran or dihydropyran from the protonated molecules. Apart from the general proposed fragmentation pathways above, the variations on the C2 site could result in some specific fragmentation patterns. Further incubating compound B1 with HLM in vitro produced two major metabolites, and the structures were proposed by tandem mass experiments together with the fragmentation mechanisms of these compounds.

CONCLUSIONS

These observations play an important role in monitoring and characterization of the presence and metabolites of furo[3,2‐c]tetrahydroquinoline and pyrano[3,2‐c]tetrahydroquinoline derivatives in complex mixtures, and can provide some applications in further pharmaceutical and therapeutic research. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dehydrodimerization of pterostilbene during electrospray ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Raji Misjudeen , Amad Ma'an , Emwas Abdel‐Hamid
Published: May 2013

RATIONALE

Pterostilbene is a member of the hydroxystilbene family of compounds commonly found in plants such as blueberry and grapes. During the analysis of this compound by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS), an ion was observed that corresponds to the dehydrodimer of pterostilbene in mass‐to‐charge ratio. Since such unexpected dimerization may lead to decreased monomer signal during quantitative analysis, it was of interest to identify the origin and structure of the observed pterostilbene dimer and examine the experimental conditions that influence its formation.

METHODS

Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (LC/MS), Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), and High‐Field Asymmetric Waveform Ion Mobility Spectrometry (FAIMS) were used to examine the origin of the dimerization products. The structure of the formed pterostilbene dimer was examined by performing MSn analysis on the dimer ion. Effects of solvent composition, analyte concentration, radical scavenger, and other experimental conditions on the dimerization were also studied.

RESULTS

LC/MS and NMR analyses clearly showed that the starting solution did not contain the pterostilbene dimer. Solvent type and radical scavenger concentration were found to have pronounced effects on the dimer formation. Particularly, presence of acetonitrile or ammonium acetate had favorable effects on the extent of dimerization during ESI‐MS analysis whereas hydroquinone and butylated hydroquinone had negative effects. Dimer formation decreased at high flow rates and when fused‐silica capillary was used as the spray needle.

CONCLUSIONS

The data indicate that this dimerization occurs as a result of solution‐phase electrochemical reactions taking place during the electrospray process. A possible structure for this dimer was proposed based on the MSn analysis and was similar to that of the enzymatically derived pterostilbene dehydrodimer already reported in the literature. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Estimation of causal mediation effects for a dichotomous outcome in multiple‐mediator models using the mediation formula
Authors: Wang Wei , Nelson Suchitra , Albert Jeffrey M.
Published: May 2013

Mediators are intermediate variables in the causal pathway between an exposure and an outcome. Mediation analysis investigates the extent to which exposure effects occur through these variables, thus revealing causal mechanisms. In this paper, we consider the estimation of the mediation effect when the outcome is binary and multiple mediators of different types exist. We give a precise definition of the total mediation effect as well as decomposed mediation effects through individual or sets of mediators using the potential outcomes framework. We formulate a model of joint distribution (probit‐normal) using continuous latent variables for any binary mediators to account for correlations among multiple mediators. A mediation formula approach is proposed to estimate the total mediation effect and decomposed mediation effects based on this parametric model. Estimation of mediation effects through individual or subsets of mediators requires an assumption involving the joint distribution of multiple counterfactuals. We conduct a simulation study that demonstrates low bias of mediation effect estimators for two‐mediator models with various combinations of mediator types. The results also show that the power to detect a nonzero total mediation effect increases as the correlation coefficient between two mediators increases, whereas power for individual mediation effects reaches a maximum when the mediators are uncorrelated. We illustrate our approach by applying it to a retrospective cohort study of dental caries in adolescents with low and high socioeconomic status. Sensitivity analysis is performed to assess the robustness of conclusions regarding mediation effects when the assumption of no unmeasured mediator‐outcome confounders is violated. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Presynaptic pH and vesicle fusion in Drosophila larvae neurones
Authors: Caldwell Lesley , Harries Peter , Sydlik Sebastian , Schwiening Christof J.
Published: May 2013

Both intracellular pH (pHi) and synaptic cleft pH change during neuronal activity yet little is known about how these pH shifts might affect synaptic transmission by influencing vesicle fusion. To address this we imaged pH‐ and Ca2+‐sensitive fluorescent indicators (HPTS, Oregon green) in boutons at neuromuscular junctions. Electrical stimulation of motor nerves evoked presynaptic Ca2+i rises and pHi falls (∼0.1 pH units) followed by recovery of both Ca2+i and pHi. The plasma‐membrane calcium ATPase (PMCA) inhibitor, 5(6)‐carboxyeosin diacetate, slowed both the calcium recovery and the acidification. To investigate a possible calcium‐independent role for the pHi shifts in modulating vesicle fusion we recorded post‐synaptic miniature end‐plate potential (mEPP) and current (mEPC) frequency in Ca2+‐free solution. Acidification by propionate superfusion, NH4+ withdrawal, or the inhibition of acid extrusion on the Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE) induced a rise in miniature frequency. Furthermore, the inhibition of acid extrusion enhanced the rise induced by propionate addition and NH4+ removal. In the presence of NH4+, 10 out of 23 cells showed, after a delay, one or more rises in miniature frequency. These findings suggest that Ca2+‐dependent pHi shifts, caused by the PMCA and regulated by NHE, may stimulate vesicle release. Furthermore, in the presence of membrane permeant buffers, exocytosed acid or its equivalents may enhance release through positive feedback. This hitherto neglected pH signalling, and the potential feedback role of vesicular acid, could explain some important neuronal excitability changes associated with altered pH and its buffering. Synapse 67:729–740, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Extended Lymphadenectomy in Colon Cancer Is Debatable
Authors: Murphy Jamie , Young‐Fadok Tonia
Published: May 2013

Extended lymphadenectomy has gained considerable attention as an adjunct to conventional colon cancer surgery with the hope that it may potentially decrease local recurrence rates and improve cancer‐specific outcome measures. Despite the enthusiasm surrounding these techniques, it is difficult to establish any additional survival benefit associated with more comprehensive lymphadenectomy strategies when these are performed in addition to conventional colon cancer surgery. Furthermore, these techniques remain unproven by large randomized clinical trials. The appropriate indications for performing extended lymphadenectomy also remain unclear, and there is a lack of standardization with regard to surgical technique. Moreover, there are a number of confounding factors that frequently receive little attention when oncological outcome measures are reported following extended lymphadenectomy in the setting of colon cancer. The purpose of this review is to outline these confounding issues and discuss their impact on reports describing cancer‐specific outcome measures following the use of extended lymphadenectomy techniques. Furthermore, this review proposes that in light of the available published evidence, the role of radical lymphadenectomy is currently unproven, with large randomized clinical trials required in the future to determine whether there is a survival benefit for colon cancer patients.
Oilseed Meal Based Plastics from Plasticized, Hot Pressed Crambe abyssinica and Brassica carinata Residuals
Authors: Newson William R. , Kuktaite Ramune , Hedenqvist Mikael S. , Gällstedt Mikael , Johansson Eva
Published: May 2013

With the increased use of plant oils as sustainable feedstocks, industrial oilseed meal from Crambe abyssinica (crambe) and Brassica carinata (carinata) can become a potential source for oilseed meal based plastics. In this study, crambe and carinata oilseed meal plastics were produced with 10–30 % glycerol and compression molding at 100–180 °C. Size exclusion HPLC was used to relate tensile properties to changes in protein solubility and molecular weight distribution. By combining glycerol and thermal processing, increased flexibility has been observed compared to previous work on unplasticized oilseed meal. Tensile results varied from a brittle crambe based material (10 % glycerol, 130 °C), Young's modulus 240 MPa, strain at maximum stress of 2 %, to a soft and flexible carinata based material (30 % glycerol, 100 °C), Young's modulus 6.5 MPa, strain at maximum stress of 13 %. Strength and stiffness development with increasing molding temperature is in agreement with the protein profiles obtained. Thus, the highest mechanical parameters were obtained at the protein solubility minimum at 140 °C. Higher temperatures caused protein degradation, increasing the level of low molecular weight extractable proteins. In carinata based materials the strain at maximum stress decreased as the protein aggregation developed. Results presented indicate that both crambe and carinata oilseed meal based materials can have their properties modulated through thermal treatment and the addition of plasticizers.
Mitochondrial degradation during starvation is selective and temporally distinct from bulk autophagy in yeast
Authors: Eiyama Akinori , Kondo-Okamoto Noriko , Okamoto Koji
Published: May 2013

Selective degradation of mitochondria is a fundamental process that depends on formation of autophagy‐related double‐membrane vesicles exclusive to mitochondria, and is thus termed mitophagy. In yeast, mitophagy is induced by a shift from respiration to starvation, or prolonged respiratory growth. Here we show that mitochondrial degradation in yeast also occurs selectively under starvation conditions even without respiration. Induction of mitophagy takes place much later than that of bulk autophagy, requiring Atg11 and Atg32 essential for mitophagy as well as Atg17, Atg29, and Atg31 specific for bulk autophagy. We propose that these two discrete protein complexes cooperatively activate starvation‐induced mitophagy.
THE WATER RELATIONS AND IRRIGATION REQUIREMENTS OF OLIVE (Olea europaeaL.): A REVIEW
Authors: CARR M. K. V.
Published: May 2013

The results of research on the water relations and irrigation needs of olive are collated and summarised in an attempt to link fundamental studies on crop physiology to irrigation practices. Background information on the ecology of the olive (it is native to the coastal areas of the eastern Mediterranean) and on crop development processes are presented, followed by reviews of the influence of water stress on gas exchange (stomatal conductance, photosynthesis and transpiration), crop water requirements, water productivities and irrigation systems. The olive has many attributes that help to protect it against drought, including the morphology of the leaf, and the capacity to conserve water under conditions of high evaporative demand through stomatal closure, osmotic regulation and resistance to cavitation. The concept of ‘deficit irrigation’ has been the subject of much research. Although vegetative growth is restricted, there is no convincing evidence that ‘sustained deficit irrigation’ or ‘regulated deficit irrigation’ or ‘partial root zone drying’ offer any advantages over conventional practices. Water productivities are very variable and difficult to reconcile due, in part, to biennial bearing, tree-to-tree variability and differences in tree population densities. Similarly, no clear consensus has emerged on how best to exploit the sensitivity of trunk expansion to water availability in irrigation scheduling. As production methods for this historical crop are intensified (high-density hedgerows, irrigated and mechanized orchards), so will the need to understand the role that water plays in the production processes become ever more critical.
Modified nasal dermoplasty technique for treatment of recurrent polyposis: preliminary results
Authors: Anastasopoulos G , Grigoriadis G , Papoutsi S
Published: May 2013

Objective:

To present and evaluate the use of nasal dermoplasty for control of recurrent nasal polyps.

Study design:

Prospective case series.

Method:

The mucosa of the fovea ethmoidalis and the lamina papyracea was replaced by a split-thickness skin graft. The follow-up period ranged from 2 to 12 months.

Results:

Five patients underwent nasal dermoplasty for recurrent nasal polyposis. In three cases, the graft uptake was successful. Post-operatively, four patients reported they were in better condition than at the same interval after their previous operation. Recurrence of polyps was noted in all patients but not in the grafted areas.

Conclusion:

In this study, there was a high prevalence of successful graft uptake following nasal dermoplasty. This technique may have potential for the control of recurrent nasal polyps. Although it is demanding and time-consuming, it may reduce the need for multiple operations. Further research is justified to establish its efficacy.
A new Opegrapha with submuriform ascospores from Brazil
Authors: CÁCERES Marcela Eugenia da Silva , LIMA Edvaneide Leandro de , APTROOT André
Published: May 2013

The new species Opegrapha subdictyospora is described from NE Brazil. It is only the third species in the genus with (sub)muriform ascospores and is further characterized by the brown pruinose discs. It was collected at Vale do Catimbau National Park in Pernambuco, which is a Caatinga area, where it is locally common.
Two new species of Cryptothecia from NE Brazil
Authors: LIMA Edvaneide Leandro de , MENDONÇA Cléverton de Oliveira , APTROOT André , CÁCERES Marcela Eugenia da Silva
Published: May 2013

The new species Cryptothecia fabispora and C. lichexanthonica are described from NE Brazil. The first has domed asci with two large, reniform ascospores and the thallus contains psoromic acid. The second contains lichexanthone and has globose asci. Cryptothecia fabispora was found at the Serra de Itabaiana National Park which represents one of the few rainforest remnants in the state, and is a transitional area with Mata Atlantica influence and also open vegetation spots like Caatinga. It was also found in Caxiuaná in Amazonian Para and may well occur elsewhere. Cryptothecia lichexanthonica was collected at Vale do Catimbau National Park in Pernambuco, which is in a Caatinga area.
Four new species of Verrucaria (Verrucariaceae, lichenized Ascomycota) from freshwater habitats in Europe
Authors: ORANGE Alan
Published: May 2013

Verrucaria nodosa sp. nov. and V. rosula sp. nov. each have a thallus composed of initially discrete units which coalesce and overlap with age, forming an uneven crust. They are related species and similar in appearance, but the thallus units are coarser in Verrucaria nodosa, and the involucrellum is typically more regularly thickened than in V. rosula. Verrucaria placida sp. nov. has a smooth, subgelatinous thallus; it is related to V. hydrophila sp. nov. but differs in the larger ascospores and perithecia. It is not closely related to V. andesiatica but is morphologically similar, differing mainly in the narrower ascospores. Verrucaria hydrophila has been widely known as V. hydrela auct., non Ach. or V. denudata Zsch. nom. illeg. Verrucaria laevata Ach. is considered to be a nomen dubium.
Teuvoa, a new lichen genus inMegasporaceae(Ascomycota:Pertusariales), includingTeuvoa junipericolasp. nov.
Authors: SOHRABI Mohammad , LEAVITT Steven D. , RICO Víctor J. , HALICI Mehmet G. , SHRESTHA Gajendra , STENROOS Soili
Published: May 2013

The relationship ofAspicilia uxoriswithinMegasporaceaeis assessed within a phylogenetic context. ‘Aspicilia’uxorisand other related species are recovered as sister to the genusLobothallias. str. and described here as a new genus.Teuvoa(Ascomycota,Megasporaceae) is erected based on nuclear ITS and LSU sequence data and morphological characters. In addition toTeuvoa uxoris, a second species,T. junipericola,is added to the new genus based on material collected from North America.Teuvoa junipericola, T. uxorisandT. tibeticaform a group with 8-spored asci, absence of extrolites, rather short-sized conidia and ascospores, lack of a subhypothecial algal layer, and different substratum preferences (on organic substratum) with a sister relationship to genusLobothallias. lat. (AspiciliasubgenusPachyothalliaClauzade & C. Roux). Based on spore measurements of the holotypes,Lecanora ferganensisTomin from central Asia (Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan),Lecanora atrodiscataGintovt, from Tajikistan andLecanora takyroidesDzhur. from Turkmenistan are new synonyms toT. uxoris. A lectotype forLecanora ferganensisis designated, expanding the known distribution ofT. uxorisfrom Algeria, Morocco and Spain, into Central Asia.
The impact of forest management on changes in composition of terricolous lichens in dry acidophilous Scots pine forests
Authors: DINGOVÁ KOŠUTHOVÁ Alica , SVITKOVÁ Ivana , PIŠÚT Ivan , SENKO Dušan , VALACHOVIČ Milan
Published: May 2013

This study focuses on dry acidophilous Scots pine forests, well known for their high biodiversity of cryptogams. We hypothesized that dense forests and heavy management were responsible for changes in species diversity, decreasing trends in lichen cover and increasing moss cover. This hypothesis was tested in three types of Scots pine forests maintained under three different management regimes: 1) managed forests (forest plantations regenerated by planting), 2) semi-natural forests (forest plantations regenerated naturally), both located in the Borská nížina lowland in SW Slovakia, and 3) natural forests (primordial vegetation without visible management actions from the associationCladonio-PinetumJuraszek 1928), located in the Bory Tucholskie National Park, NW Poland.

We observed that the cover of the canopy tree layer had the most significant influence on the diversity of lichens. Managed forests are planted and maintained to achieve denser tree stocking, and although the environmental conditions created appear optimal for moss species, they are less suitable for terricolous lichens.
The impact of phonological neighborhood density on typical and atypical emerging lexicons*
Authors: STOKES STEPHANIE F.
Published: May 2013

According to the Extended Statistical Learning account (ExSL; Stokes, Kern & dos Santos, 2012) late talkers (LTs) continue to use neighborhood density (ND) as a cue for word learning when their peers no longer use a density learning mechanism. In the current article, LTs expressive (active) lexicon ND values differed from those of their age-matched, but not language-matched, TD peers, a finding that provided support for the ExSL account. Stokes (2010) claimed that LTs had difficulty abstracting sparse words, but not dense, from the ambient language. If true, then LTs' receptive (passive), as well as active lexicons should be comprised of words of high ND. However, in the current research only active lexicons were of high ND. LTs' expressive lexicons may be small not because of an abstraction deficit, but because they are unable to develop sufficiently strong phonological representations to support word production.
Protective Labor Legislation in the Courts: Substantive Due Process and Fairness in the Progressive Era
Authors: Katz Claudio J.
Published: May 2013

The Supreme Court's decision inLochner v. New York(1905), invalidating an act limiting working hours for bakers as a violation of contractual freedom, has come to symbolize an era in constitutional law. The period covers the years from the end of the Gilded Age through the Progressive Era. Its chief characteristic, according to its critics, is the judiciary's hostility to progressive labor legislation. Statutes intended to protect vulnerable classes from the ravages of industrialization were routinely defeated in the courts. Progressives pioneered an interpretation in whichLochnerbecame a leading “anticanonical” case, wrongly deploying the doctrine of substantive due process to shield inherited distributions of wealth and power. The time is long past when scholars characterized the era as a product of judges' reactionary commitments to laissez-faire or, worse, to Social Darwinism, following Justice Holmes's quip, dissenting inLochner, that “the Fourteenth Amendment does not enact Mr. Herbert Spencer's Social Statics.” Contemporary scholars have reconstructed the period's jurisprudence, finding in it a principled commitment to a conception of justice grounded in the Founding. The most widely accepted explanation, developed by Gillman's influential study, is that substantive due process embodied a principle of neutrality requiring courts to distinguish the authentic public aims of legislation from illegitimate attempts to advantage some classes at others' expense. An alternative explanation is that judges, drawing on the theory of natural rights, developed the doctrine of substantive due process to limit government's discretion to encumber prepolitical rights to private property and liberty of contract.
Constitutional Principle, Partisan Calculation, and the Beveridge Child Labor Bill
Authors: Sawyer Logan Everett
Published: May 2013

Following the 1906 midterm elections, Indiana Senator Albert Beveridge was excited to return to Washington to introduce a bill that would prohibit child labor in the nation's factories, mines, and mills. He hoped the bill would curtail the unpopular practice and help rebrand his Republican Party as the nation's progressive party. The Party's old guard, however, proved uncooperative. Recognizing the unpopularity of child labor, they fought the bill on constitutional grounds and challenged Beveridge with a parade of horribles. If Congress could constitutionally regulate child labor, they asked, could it not also regulate the hours or wages of adults? Could it not prevent a man from joining a labor union? Or require it? One would have expected Beveridge—who opposed such regulations—to blunt that criticism with some legal distinction. Instead, he embraced it. Would Beveridge go so far as to claim that Congress could prohibit the interstate shipment of cotton picked by children, asked one Senator. “Yes,” Beveridge retorted, “or [by] a redheaded girl.”
Analysis of a mixture model of tumor growth
Authors: LOWENGRUB JOHN , TITI EDRISS , ZHAO KUN
Published: May 2013

We study an initial-boundary value problem for a coupled Cahn–Hilliard–Hele–Shaw system that models tumour growth. For large initial data with finite energy, we prove global (local resp.) existence, uniqueness, higher order spatial regularity and the Gevrey spatial regularity of strong solutions to the initial-boundary value problem in two dimensions (three dimensions resp.). Asymptotically in time, we show that the solution converges to a constant state exponentially fast as time tends to infinity under certain assumptions.
Measurement of Pain in the Prehospital Setting Using a Visual Analogue
Scale
Authors: Lord Bill A. , Parsell Brian
Published: May 2013

Introduction:

The aim of this study was to use a visual analogue scale (VAS) to
measure the adequacy of prehospital pain management. Patients reported
pain severity at two points in time during treatment and transport by
ambulance paramedics. The change in pain score was compared with a
benchmark reduction of 20 mm that has been shown to correspond with the
minimum clinically significant change in pain perception reported by
patients.

Methods:

This prospective, observational study used a VA S to record pain
severity among patients reporting pain who were transported to a
hospital by paramedics. Patients used a VAS to score pain severity
during the initial patient assessment process (T0), and again at the
hospital of destination (Tend). This study reports the mean changes in
the scores, and the percentage of cases for whom the difference between
T0and Tend in the study population achieved or exceeded the 20 mm
benchmark. A survey also was administered to paramedics who participated
in this study in order to identify attitudes, values, and beliefs
relating to the measurement of pain.

Results:

A total of 262 patients were enrolled in this study. The mean value
for thereduction in VAS (T0-Tend) was 18.2±23.9 mm [±SD] (Median =
14.0mm, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 15.3–21.1 mm). One hundred and
thirty-four patients (51.1%) did not receive analgesia (either morphine
sulfate or methoxyflurane). The mean initial (T0) pain score for the
no-analgesia group was 54.5 ±24.7 mm [±SD], with the mean value for the
change in VAS (T0-Tend) = 10.6 mm (median = 5 mm, 95% CI = 6.4–14.8 mm).
Fo rty-six patients (17.6%) recorded some deterioration in their pain
score at Tend (T0-Tend<0 mm). Survey results identified attitudes
that may affect paramedics' pain management practice.

Conclusion:

The results suggest that inadequate analgesia is an issue in this
study setting. Effective analgesia requires formal protocols or
guidelines supported by effective analgesic therapies along with
education that addresses attitudes that may inhibit pain assessment or
management by paramedics. Regular audits form part of clinical quality
assurance programs that assess analgesic practice. However, such
auditsmust have access to data obtained from patient self-reporting of
pain using a valid and reliable pain measurement tool.
Paramedic Identification of Electrocardiograph J-Point and ST-Segments
Authors: Williams Brett , Boyle Mal , Lord Bill
Published: May 2013

Introduction:

Correct identification of the J-Point and ST-segment on an electrocardiograph (ECG) is an important clinical skill for paramedics working in acute healthcare settings. The skill of ECG analysis and interpretation is known to be challenging to learn and often is a difficult concept to teach.

Objectives:

The objective of the study was to determine if undergraduate paramedic students could accurately identify ECG ST-segment elevation and J-Point location.

Methods:

A convenience sample of undergraduate paramedic students (n = 148) was provided with four enlarged ECGs (ECG1–4) that illustrated different levels, patterns, and characteristics of ST-segment elevation. Participants were asked to identify whether ST-elevation was present, and if so, height in millimeters (mm) and the correct location of the J-Point.

Results:

There were significant variations in students'accuracy with both J-Point and ST-segment determination. Eleven (10%) students correctly identified the ST-segment being present in all ECGs. Also, ECG 2 reflected 6 mm of ST-elevation; however, only one student correctly identified this. Overall the students were 0.55 mm (95% CI = 0.29–0.81 mm, range = -6.5–5.8 mm) from the J-point on the horizontal and -0.18 mm (95% CI = -0.31–0.04 mm, range = -2.8–2.3 mm) on the vertical axis.

Conclusions:

Undergraduate paramedic students recognize ST-segment elevation. However, inaccuracies occurred with measurements of ST-segment and precise location of J-Points. Errors in ECG analysis may reflect weaknesses in teaching this skill. Consideration should be given to the design of an educational program that can reliably improve performance of this skill.
Dietary patterns and breast cancer risk among women
Authors: Karimi Zeinab , Jessri Mahsa , Houshiar-Rad Anahita , Mirzaei Hamid-Reza , Rashidkhani Bahram
Published: May 2013

Objective

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women worldwide. Several studies have examined the role of single nutrients and food groups in breast cancer pathogenesis but fewer investigations have addressed the role of dietary patterns. Our main objective was to identify the relationship between major dietary patterns and breast cancer risk among Iranian women.

Design

Hospital-based case–control study.

Setting

Shohada Teaching Hospital, Tehran, Iran.

Subjects

Overall, 100 female patients aged 30–65 years with breast cancer and 174 female hospital controls were included in the present study. Dietary intake was assessed using a valid and reliable semi-quantitative FFQ consisting of 168 food items.

Results

Two dietary patterns were identified explaining 24·31 % of dietary variation in the study population. The ‘healthy’ food pattern was characterized by the consumption of vegetables, fruits, low-fat dairy products, legumes, olive and vegetable oils, fish, condiments, organ meat, poultry, pickles, soya and whole grains; while the ‘unhealthy’ food pattern was characterized by the consumption of soft drinks, sugars, tea and coffee, French fries and potato chips, salt, sweets and desserts, hydrogenated fats, nuts, industrial juice, refined grains, and red and processed meat. Compared with the lowest tertile, women in the highest tertile of the ‘healthy’ dietary pattern score had 75 % decreased risk of breast cancer (OR = 0·25, 95 % CI 0·08, 0·78), whereas women in the highest tertile of the ‘unhealthy’ dietary pattern had a significantly increased breast cancer risk (OR = 7·78, 95 % CI 2·31, 26·22).

Conclusions

A healthy dietary pattern may be negatively associated with breast cancer risk, while an unhealthy dietary pattern is likely to increase the risk among Iranian women.
Sodium and nutrition labelling: a qualitative study exploring New Zealand consumers’ food purchasing behaviours
Authors: McLean Rachael , Hoek Janet
Published: May 2013

Objective

Dietary sodium reduction is an important public health intervention that would reduce blood pressure and chronic disease. An understanding of how New Zealand consumers’ food purchasing behaviour is influenced by perceptions of dietary sodium will inform future sodium-reduction strategies.

Design

The present qualitative study used in-depth interviews of adult consumers to explore consumer knowledge, understanding of food labels and food purchasing behaviour with respect to dietary sodium.

Setting

New Zealand.

Subjects

A convenience sample of sixteen adult grocery shoppers.

Results

A thematic analysis of the transcripts showed New Zealand consumers lacked the background knowledge necessary to understand and regulate their own salt intake and were unable to interpret existing food labels with respect to dietary salt.

Conclusions

The findings add further weight to calls for food labels that do not require background knowledge or numerical skills and highlight the need for population-based public health interventions. Education of New Zealand consumers on the health benefits of sodium reduction and how this may be achieved would complement this approach.
Is frequency of family meals associated with parental encouragement of healthy eating among ethnically diverse eighth graders?
Authors: Poulos Natalie S , Pasch Keryn E , Springer Andrew E , Hoelscher Deanna M , Kelder Steven H
Published: May 2013

Objective

The purpose of the present study was to explore the relationship between family meals and parental encouragement of healthy eating overall and by ethnicity.

Design

Family meal frequency was measured with one item asking how many times in the past 7 d all or most of the family ate a meal together, which was then categorized to represent three levels of family meals (≤2 times, 3–6 times and ≥7 times). Parental encouragement of healthy eating assessed how often parents encouraged the student to eat fruits and vegetables, drink water, eat wholegrain bread, eat breakfast and drink low-fat milk (never to always). An overall scale of parental encouragement of healthy eating was created. Mixed-effect regression analyses were run controlling for gender, ethnicity, age and socio-economic status. Moderation by ethnicity was explored.

Setting

Middle schools.

Subjects

Participants included 2895 US eighth grade students participating in the Central Texas CATCH (Coordinated Approach To Child Health) Middle School Project (mean age 13·9 years; 24·5 % White, 52·7 % Hispanic, 13·0 % African-American, 9·8 % Other; 51·6 % female).

Results

Eating more family meals was significantly associated with having parents who encouraged healthy eating behaviours (P for trend <0·001). The number of family meals was positively associated with encouragement of each of the healthy eating behaviours (P for trend <0·0001). There were no differences in the relationships by ethnicity of the students.

Conclusions

Families who eat together are more likely to encourage healthy eating in general. Interventions which promote family meals may include tips for parents to increase discussions about healthy eating.