bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Skin Color and the Criminal Justice System: Beyond Black‐White Disparities in Sentencing
Authors: Burch Traci
Published: August 2015

This article analyzes sentencing outcomes for black and white men in Georgia. The analysis uses sentencing data collected by the Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC). Among first‐time offenders, both the race‐only models and race and skin color models estimate that, on average, blacks receive sentences that are 4.25 percent higher than those of whites even after controlling for legally‐relevant factors such as the type of crime. However, the skin color model also shows us that this figure hides important intraracial differences in sentence length: while medium‐ and dark‐skinned blacks receive sentences that are about 4.8 percent higher than those of whites, lighter‐skinned blacks receive sentences that are not statistically significantly different from those of whites. After controlling for socioeconomic status in the race‐only and race and skin color models the remaining difference between whites and dark‐ and medium‐skinned blacks increases slightly, to 5.5 percent. These findings are discussed with respect to the implications for public policy and for racial hierarchy in the United States.
Real‐time PCR identification of the ambrosia beetles, Trypodendron domesticum (L.) and Trypodendron lineatum (Olivier) (Coleoptera: Scolytidae)
Authors: Robideau G. P. , Foottit R. G. , Humble L. M. , Noseworthy M. K. , Wu T. , Bilodeau G. J.
Published: August 2015

The European hardwood ambrosia beetle (Trypodendron domesticum) and the striped ambrosia beetle (Trypodendron lineatum) are wood‐boring pests that can cause serious damage to lumber, resulting in a need for management of these pests in logging and lumber industries. Natural populations of ambrosia beetles exist throughout the world, but movement of ambrosia beetles into new habitats, particularly via international trade, can result in the establishment of invasive species that have the potential to spread into new territory. Efforts to monitor ambrosia beetle populations are time‐consuming and could be greatly enhanced by the use of molecular methods, which would provide accurate and rapid identification of potentially problematic species. Here, we present new real‐time PCR assays for the detection and identification of T. domesticum and T. lineatum. The methods described herein can be used with a variety of sampling strategies to enable timely and well‐informed decision‐making in efforts to control these ambrosia beetles.
Attract‐and‐kill systems efficiency against Ceratitis capitata (Diptera: Tephritidae) and effects on non‐target insects in peach orchards
Authors: Hafsi A. , Abbes K. , Harbi A. , Duyck P.‐F. , Chermiti B.
Published: August 2015

For control of the Mediterranean fruit fly Ceratitis capitata (Diptera: Tephritidae), the attract‐and‐kill or attracticide technique is an alternative to the spraying of traditional organophosphate pesticides. In this study, the effectiveness of Ceranock and AAL&K attract‐and‐kill bait stations was assessed for control of C. capitata in Tunisian peach (Prunus persica) orchards. Our results showed that, in orchards with early‐ripening varieties, the numbers of C. capitata males and fruit damage were significantly lower in plots treated with Ceranock and AAL&K bait stations than in plots treated with conventional organophosphate and pyrethroid insecticides. In addition, the abundances of non‐target insects in the Chrysopidae, Coccinellidae and Miridae were significantly greater in plots treated with the bait stations than in plots treated with the conventional pesticides; that is, the use of attract‐and‐kill bait stations had fewer negative effects than the application of conventional pesticides on the biological diversity in Tunisian peach orchards. Overall, the results indicate that Ceranock and AAL&K attract‐and‐kill bait stations are useful alternatives for the control of C. capitata in Tunisian peach orchards planted with early‐ripening varieties.
Control of mango seed weevils (Sternochetus mangiferae) using the African Weaver Ant (Oecophylla longinoda Latreille) (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)
Authors: Abdulla N. R. , Rwegasira G. M. , Jensen K‐M. V. , Mwatawala M. W. , Offenberg J.
Published: August 2015

The mango seed weevil, Sternochetus mangiferae (Fabricius), is among the major threats to mango production in Tanzania. Sternochetus mangiferae is primarily a quarantine pest whose presence inside the fruits restricts access to new foreign markets and leads to rejections of fruits destined for export. Management options for the pest have largely been dependent on field sanitation and application of synthetic insecticides with some success. Thus, more sustainable methods are needed to substitute insecticides, as this may also open up opportunities for organic markets. We conducted field experiments for two fruiting seasons in a mango plantation at Mlandizi, Kibaha district, along the coastal belt of Tanzania to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of the predaceous ant Oecophylla longinoda Latreille with foliar insecticidal sprays of Dudumida (70 WDG Imidacloprid) in controlling S. mangiferae. Mango seed weevil infestation was assessed fortnightly based on infestation marks on developing fruits starting eight weeks after fruit set to early ripening phase. Between 50 and 64 fruits were sampled, well labelled in jute bags, secured and transported to the laboratory at Kibaha Biological Control Unit (KBCU) for incubation at room temperature using rearing transparent containers. Two weeks later, the fruits were dissected and inspected for the presence of S. mangiferae developmental stages. Field and laboratory results indicated that fruits from trees that were occupied by O. longinoda and from those treated with insecticide showed significantly (P < 0.0001) lower incidences and infestation rates by S. mangiferae than from untreated trees. Furthermore, there were no significant differences between the insecticide and the weaver ant treatments. We conclude that in our experiments, O. longinoda is an efficient biological control agent for a long‐term control programme and is comparable to insecticide (Dudumida) in suppressing S. mangiferae and may be used in Tanzanian mango plantations.
Is the response of aphids to alarm pheromone stable?
Authors: Thieme T. , Dixon A. F. G.
Published: August 2015

Aphid taxa are characterized by a number of biological features, such as their feeding behaviour and host selection, which it is generally accepted are affected by keeping them for several generations under standard conditions in a laboratory. Analyses of three strains of the green pea aphid, Acyrthosiphon pisum (Harris, 1776), reared in culture for long periods, indicate that other characters are also affected. For example, the response of these aphids to alarm pheromone is dramatically reduced. This raises an interesting question regarding the mechanism by which it occurs and has consequences when aphids from laboratory cultures are used for studies in ecology and applied biology and especially the long‐term effectiveness of crop plants genetically engineered to produce EBF as a means of controlling aphids.
Extraction of Oligosaccharides from Passion Fruit Peel by Subcritical Water Treatment
Authors: Klinchongkon Khwanjai , Khuwijitjaru Pramote , Wiboonsirikul Jintana , Adachi Shuji
Published: August 2015

Passion fruit peel, a major by‐product of the fruit processing, was treated in subcritical water under nonisothermal conditions in batch‐type reactor containing the dried peel and water in the ratio 1:16 (w/w), with maximum temperatures in the range of 100–245C. The effects of the treatment temperature and time on the composition of the obtained hydrolysates were combined and expressed as the severity factor (ln Ro). Both mono‐ and oligosaccharides with high degree of polymerizations (DP > 7) were extracted from the peel under every treatment tested. The treatment at ln Ro of 3.4 and 5.1, corresponding to the heating to 150C within 4.5 min and to 175C within 5.5 min, respectively, yielded the highest amount of oligosaccharides (ca. 21%) with galacturonan as a main component (ca. 65%), indicating that pectin was predominantly hydrolyzed and extracted under these conditions. The study showed that subcritical water treatment is an effective method for producing the oligosaccharides which may be useful as dietary fiber.

Practical Applications

Pectic oligosaccharide is a soluble dietary fiber that can be obtained by hydrolysis of pectin. This oligosaccharide can be classified as a prebiotic that possesses several health‐promoting functions. Utilizing the by‐product from passion fruit to produce pectic oligosaccharides is an alternative use for increasing the value of this bioresource.
An automatic method for atom identification in scanning tunnelling microscopy images of Fe‐chalcogenide superconductors
Authors: PERASSO A. , TORACI C. , MASSONE A.M. , PIANA M. , GERBI A. , BUZIO R. , KAWALE S. , BELLINGERI E. , FERDEGHINI C.
Published: August 2015

We describe a computational approach for the automatic recognition and classification of atomic species in scanning tunnelling microscopy images. The approach is based on a pipeline of image processing methods in which the classification step is performed by means of a Fuzzy Clustering algorithm. As a representative example, we use the computational tool to characterize the nanoscale phase separation in thin films of the Fe‐chalcogenide superconductor FeSexTe1‐x, starting from synthetic data sets and experimental topographies. We quantify the stoichiometry fluctuations on length scales from tens to a few nanometres.
Toward an Understanding of the Role of the Environment in the Development of Early Callous Behavior
Authors: Waller Rebecca , Shaw Daniel S. , Neiderhiser Jenae M. , Ganiban Jody M. , Natsuaki Misaki N. , Reiss David , Trentacosta Christopher J. , Leve Leslie D. , Hyde Luke W.
Published: August 2015

Key to understanding the long‐term impact of social inequalities is identifying early behaviors that may signal higher risk for later poor psychosocial outcomes, such as psychopathology. A set of early‐emerging characteristics that may signal risk for later externalizing psychopathology is callous‐unemotional (CU) behavior. CU behavior predicts severe and chronic trajectories of externalizing behaviors in youth. However, much research on CU behavior has focused on late childhood and adolescence, with little attention paid to early childhood when preventative interventions may be most effective. In this article, we summarize our recent work showing that (a) CU behavior can be identified in early childhood using items from common behavior checklists, (b) CU behavior predicts worse outcomes across early childhood, (c) CU behavior exhibits a nomological network distinct from other early externalizing behaviors, and (d) malleable environmental factors, particularly parenting, may play a role in the development of early CU behaviors. We discuss the challenges of studying contextual contributors to the development of CU behavior in terms of gene–environment correlations and present initial results from work examining CU behavior in an adoption study in which gene–environment correlations are examined in early childhood. We find that parenting is a predictor of early CU behavior even in a sample in which parents are not genetically related to the children.
Randomised controlled trial of a mobile phone infant resuscitation guide
Authors: Hawkes Gavin A , Murphy Geraldine , Dempsey Eugene M , Ryan Anthony C
Published: August 2015

Aim

The aim of this study was to develop a mobile phone resuscitation guide (MPRG) and to evaluate its use during simulated resuscitation of a mannequin.

Methods

An MPRG was developed using EpiSurveyor. A randomised controlled trial was performed in school‐going children aged 15–16 years. All subjects were taught infant CPR skills using the American Heart Association Infant CPR Anytime. Two weeks later, the students were randomised to use of MPRG or not, and their CPR skills were re‐assessed. The assessment was conducted using previously validated checklists.

Results

Twenty‐one students participated in this trial. The MPRG group performed notably better in the areas of calling emergency services (80% vs. 36.4%, P = 0.044), completing sufficient CPR cycles (90% vs. 45.5%, P = 0.047) and following the correct CPR sequence (60% vs. 9.1%, P = 0.013). No difference in resuscitation skills of participants was observed.

Conclusions

We have shown that participants were more likely to call emergency services if they were using the MPRG. Further trials are needed to investigate the utility of mobile phone guides and whether or not they can reduce the time taken to contact emergency services as well as if they can sustain correct CPR sequence in an in‐vivo setting.
Sensitivity and specificity of General Movements Assessment for diagnostic accuracy of detecting cerebral palsy early in an Australian context
Authors: Morgan Catherine , Crowle Cathryn , Goyen Traci‐Anne , Hardman Caroline , Jackman Michelle , Novak Iona , Badawi Nadia
Published: August 2015

Aim

The aim of this study was to calculate the sensitivity and specificity of the General Movements Assessment (GMA) for estimating diagnostic accuracy in detecting cerebral palsy (CP) in an Australian context by a newly established NSW rater network.

Methods

A prospective longitudinal cross‐sectional study was conducted. The GMA was blind‐rated from conventional video by two independent certified raters, blinded to medical history. A third rater resolved disagreements. High‐risk population screening for CP using the GMA during the fidgety period (12–20 weeks) was carried out in four neonatal intensive care units and one CP service over a 30‐month period (2012–2013). Participants were 259 high‐risk infants. Sensitivity and specificity values were calculated with true positives defined as a confirmed diagnosis of CP from a medical doctor.

Results

Of the 259 infants assessed, 1‐year follow‐up data were available for 187. Of these, n = 48 had absent fidgety (high risk for CP), n = 138 had normal fidgety (low risk for CP), and n = 1 had abnormal fidgety (high risk for a neurological disorder). Of the 48 with absent fidgety movements, 39 had received a diagnosis of CP by 18 months and another 6 had an abnormal outcome. Of the n = 138 normal fidgety cases, n = 99 cases had a normal outcome, n = 38 had an abnormal outcome but not CP, and n = 1 had CP. For detecting CP, we had a sensitivity of 98% and specificity of 94%.

Conclusion

GMA was feasible in an Australian context and accurately identified CP with a sensitivity and specificity comparable with European standards and published neuroimaging data.
The Intensity of a Bean Fusarium Root Rot Epidemic is Dependent on Planting Strategies
Authors: Naseri Bita , Shobeiri Seyedeh Soudabeh , Tabande Leila
Published: August 2015

Restricting Fusarium root rot (FRR) epidemics and improving productivity using fewer chemicals is a major concern in bean‐growing regions. The main purpose of this research was to identify the planting strategies associated with FRR development and seed production in bean crops. A 2‐year study of 122 commercial bean farms in four major producing regions in Zanjan, Iran, was performed to characterize the associations of farming indicators with FRR and productivity. Linear mixed‐effect models, contingency tables and correspondence analyses were used to describe the variables relationships. Low disease and high productivity were linked to herbicide and manure applications, fungicidal treatment of seeds, manual sowing and sprinkler irrigation. Furrow irrigation, mechanical sowing, planting on raised seedbeds, the lack of fertilizer and herbicide use accounted for high disease and low seed production. The results of the study provide further evidence of factors contributions to the wider FRR spread over bean‐cropping systems. Overall, this suggests that the selected composition of planting strategies can improve bean production and reduce FRR intensity.
Optimization of Nutrient and Fermentation Parameters for Antifungal Activity byStreptomyces lavendulaeXjy and Its Biocontrol Efficacies againstFulvia fulvaandBotryosphaeria dothidea
Authors: Gao Xiaoning , He Qirui , Jiang Yun , Huang Lili
Published: August 2015

This study has been proved that statistical experimental designs offer efficient and feasible approaches for determination of culture medium and fermentation conditions ofStreptomyces lavendulaeXjy. Nutrition and cultural conditions have high influence on the antibiotic production ofS. lavendulaeXjy. Soya bean meal, NaCl and (NH4)2SO4were identified as the best ingredients for high antifungal activity of Xjy based on single variable experiments. Using response surface methodology, the best concentrations of medium ingredients were 1.46% soya bean meal, 2.25% NaCl and 1.26% (NH4)2SO4. The potential components were reduced from seven to three, and the antibiotic activity was increased by 10%. The optimized conditions for Xjy in a 250‐ml Erlenmeyer flask were initialpH5, medium volume 25 ml/250 ml and inoculation volume 10% at 30°C with 200 rpm by response surface methodology. Validation experiments carried out to check the accuracy of the models indicated that the predicted values agreed with the experimental values. The extension of necrosis lesion ofBotryosphaeria dothideawas impeded by the application of Xjy in apple fruit. In tomato plants, Xjy showed the 43.7–51.7% curative and protective effects againstFulvia fulva. The optimal medium not only gave a 20% increase in antifungal activity, but it provided a simpler formulation. The results will set a basis for further study on large‐scale fermentation volumes usingS. lavendulaeXjy and be useful for the development of more advanced control strategies on plant diseases.
Retrobulbar lymphoma associated with a ballistic foreign body in a cat
Authors: Robat C. , Bemelmans I. , Marescaux L.
Published: August 2015

A seven‐year‐old domestic shorthair cat, adopted 5 years previously with a corneal perforation of the left eye, was presented for investigation of a left orbital mass. Computed tomography revealed a metallic foreign body within a contrast‐enhancing, heterogeneous orbital mass. Large cell lymphoma was diagnosed from a fine needle aspirate. The cat staged negatively and was treated with l‐asparaginase, prednisolone and three fractions of radiation therapy. A rapid clinical remission was obtained and the cat remained in remission for 3 years after therapy. This is the first report of large cell lymphoma likely occurring secondary to a foreign body.
Correlates of Heterosexual Anal Intercourse among Women in the 2006–2010 National Survey of Family Growth
Authors: Benson Lyndsey S. , Martins Summer L. , Whitaker Amy K.
Published: August 2015

Introduction

Heterosexual anal intercourse (HAI) is common among U.S. women. Receptive anal intercourse is a known risk factor for HIV, yet there is a paucity of data on HAI frequency and distribution in the United States. Condom use is lower with HAI vs. vaginal intercourse, but little is known regarding of correlates of HAI with and without condoms.

Aims

The aims of this study were to describe recent (past 12 months) and lifetime HAI among sexually active reproductive-aged U.S. women, and to characterize women who engage in HAI with and without condoms.

Methods

We analyzed a sample of 10,463 heterosexually active women aged 15–44 years for whom anal intercourse data were available in the 2006–2010 National Survey of Family Growth.

Main Outcome Measures

Weighted bivariate and multivariable analyses were used to determine HAI prevalence and correlates. Primary outcomes were lifetime HAI, recent (last 12 months) HAI, and condom use at last HAI.

Results

In our sample, 13.2% of women had engaged in recent HAI and 36.3% in lifetime HAI. Women of all racial and ethnic backgrounds and religions reported recent anal intercourse. Condom use was more common at last vaginal intercourse than at last anal intercourse (28% vs. 16.4%, P < 0.001). In multivariable analysis, correlates of recent HAI included: less frequent church attendance, younger age at first intercourse, multiple sexual partners, history of oral intercourse, history of unintended pregnancy, and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (all P < 0.05). Correlates of lifetime HAI were similar, with the addition of older age, higher education, higher income, and history of drug use (all P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Women of all ages and ethnicities engage in HAI, at rates higher than providers might realize. Condom use is significantly lower for HAI vs. vaginal intercourse, putting these women at risk for acquisition of sexually transmitted infections.
The Effect of Lexical Predictability on Eye Movements in Reading: Critical Review and Theoretical Interpretation
Authors: Staub Adrian
Published: August 2015

A word's predictability in its context has a reliable influence on eye movements in reading. This article reviews the extensive literature that has investigated this influence, focusing on several specific empirical issues. These include assessment of cloze probability as the critical measure of predictability, the form of the relationship between predictability and reading time, the distributional effects of predictability, the interaction between predictability and word frequency, and the interaction between predictability and parafoveal preview. On the basis of this review, two theoretical conclusions are proposed. First, predictability effects in reading result from graded activation of potentially many words, as opposed to discrete prediction of a specific word. Second, this activation has the effect of facilitating either very early stages of lexical processing or pre‐lexical processing of visual features or letters.
A compound Ca‐, Al‐rich inclusion from CV3 chondrite Northwest Africa 3118: Implications for understanding processes during CAI formation
Authors: Ivanova Marina A. , Lorenz Cyril A. , Krot Alexander N. , MacPherson Glenn J.
Published: August 2015

A calcium‐aluminum‐rich inclusion 3N from the Northwest Africa (NWA) 3118 CV3 carbonaceous chondrite is a unique cm‐sized compound object, primarily a forsterite‐bearing type B (FoB) CAI, that encloses at least 26 smaller CAIs of different types, including compact type A (CTA), B, C, and an ultra‐refractory inclusion. Relative to typical type A and B CAIs found elsewhere, the bulk compositions of the types A and B CAIs within 3N more closely match the bulk compositions predicted by equilibrium condensation of a gas of solar composition. Being trapped within the FoB melt may have protected them from melt evaporation that affected most “stand‐alone” CAIs. 3N originated either as an aggregate of many smaller (mostly types A, B, C) CAIs plus accreted Fo‐bearing material (like an amoeboid olivine aggregate) which experienced partial melting of the whole, or else as a FoB melt droplet that collided with and trapped many smaller solid CAIs. In the former case, 3N recorded the earliest accretion of pebble‐sized bodies known. In the latter case, the presence of a large number of individual refractory inclusions within 3N suggests a very high local density of refractory solids in the immediate region of the host CAI during the brief time while it was melted. Collisions would have occurred on time scales of hours at most, assuming a melt solidification interval for the host CAI of 300–400 °C (maximum) and a cooling rate of ~10 °C/h.
Morphometrics, body condition, and growth of the ringed seal (Pusa hispida saimensis) in Lake Saimaa: Implications for conservation
Authors: Auttila Miina , Kurkilahti Mika , Niemi Marja , Levänen Riikka , Sipilä Tero , Isomursu Marja , Koskela Jouni , Kunnasranta Mervi
Published: August 2015

Morphometrics and growth of the critically endangered Saimaa ringed seal (Pusa hispida saimensis), which inhabits a freshwater lake in Finland were studied using data from 344 carcasses. This study presents the first detailed information on ringed seal pup growth and body condition from birth to the age of one year. Newborn pups were on average 68 cm long and weighed 5 kg. Pups attained the majority of their first year growth during the nursing period. Body condition and growth declined after weaning, but pups recovered from postweaning nutritional deprivation at the age of 8 mo. The seals achieved their maximum body length, girth, and mandible size around the age of 4 yr, and asymptotic body mass two years later. Baculum growth indicated that males reached sexual maturity at age 5–6 yr. The Saimaa ringed seals' asymptotic body length and mass were 132 cm and 59 kg, respectively, which is similar to medium sized marine ringed seals. Saimaa ringed seals' survival to adulthood is extremely low due to high bycatch mortality; furthermore climate change may hamper pup growth and elevate mortality. Therefore we recommend continuation of fishing closures to improve pup survival.
Home range size of adult Indo‐Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus) in a coastal and estuarine system is habitat and sex‐specific
Authors: Sprogis Kate R. , Raudino Holly C. , Rankin Robert , MacLeod Colin D. , Bejder Lars
Published: August 2015

This study examined sex‐specific differences in home range size of adult Indo‐Pacific bottlenose dolphins off Bunbury, Western Australia. We applied a new kernel density estimation approach that accounted for physical barriers to movements. A Bayesian mixture model was developed to estimate a sex effect in home range size with latent group partitioning constrained by association data. A post hoc analysis investigated group partitioning relating to the proportion of time spent in open vs. sheltered waters. From 2007 to 2013, photographic‐identification data were collected along boat‐based systematic transect lines (n = 586). Analyses focused on adult dolphins of known sex (sighted ≥ 30 times; n = 22 males and 34 females). The 95% utilization distributions of males varied between 27 and 187 km2 (; 94.8 ± 48.15) and for females between 20 and 133 km2 (65.6 ± 30.9). The mixture model indicated a 99% probability that males had larger home ranges than females. Dolphins mostly sighted in open waters had larger home ranges than those in sheltered waters. Home ranges of dolphins sighted in sheltered waters overlapped with areas of highest human activity. We suggest that sex differences in home ranges are driven by male mating strategies, and home range size differences between habitats may be influenced by prey availability and predation risk.
Envy and Habits: Panel Data Estimates of Interdependent Preferences
Authors: Alvarez‐Cuadrado Francisco , Casado Jose Maria , Labeaga Jose Maria
Published: August 2015

We estimate the importance of preference interdependence from consumption choices. Our strategy follows the literature that tests the constraints imposed by optimality on the evolution of individual consumption. The introduction of habits and envy places additional restrictions on the evolution of the optimal consumption path. We use a unique data set to test these restrictions. Our estimates suggest that, if one defines utility over consumption services, a large fraction of these services is relative, with one third of the weight placed in the consumption of the reference group and another third placed in the agent's past consumption.
Evolutionarily distant pathogens require the Arabidopsis phytosulfokine signalling pathway to establish disease
Authors: Rodiuc Natalia , Barlet Xavier , Hok Sophie , Perfus‐Barbeoch Laetitia , Allasia Valérie , Engler Gilbert , Séassau Aurélie , Marteu Nathalie , de Almeida‐Engler Janice , Panabières Franck , Abad Pierre , Kemmerling Birgit , Marco Yves , Favery Bruno , Keller Harald
Published: August 2015

Secreted peptides and their specific receptors frequently orchestrate cell‐to‐cell communication in plants. Phytosulfokines (PSKs) are secreted tyrosine‐sulphated peptide hormones, which trigger cellular dedifferentiation and redifferentiation upon binding to their membrane receptor. Biotrophic plant pathogens frequently trigger the differentiation of host cells into specialized feeding structures, which are essential for successful infection. We found that oomycete and nematode infections were characterized by the tissue‐specific transcriptional regulation of genes encoding Arabidopsis PSKs and the PSK receptor 1 (PSKR1). Subcellular analysis of PSKR1 distribution showed that the plasma membrane‐bound receptor internalizes after binding of PSK‐α. Arabidopsis pskr1 knockout mutants were impaired in their susceptibility to downy mildew infection. Impaired disease susceptibility depends on functional salicylic acid (SA) signalling, but not on the massive up‐regulation of SA‐associated defence‐related genes. Knockout pskr1 mutants also displayed a major impairment of root‐knot nematode reproduction. In the absence of functional PSKR1, giant cells arrested their development and failed to fully differentiate. Our findings indicate that the observed restriction of PSK signalling to cells surrounding giant cells contributes to the isotropic growth and maturation of nematode feeding sites. Taken together, our data suggest that PSK signalling in Arabidopsis promotes the differentiation of host cells into specialized feeding cells.
Xylaria hypoxylon Lectin as Adjuvant Elicited Tfh Cell Responses
Authors: Kang J. , Zuo Y. , Guo Q. , Wang H. , Liu Q. , Liu Q. , Xia G. , Kang Y.
Published: August 2015

Foot‐and‐mouth disease (FMD) caused by FMD virus (FMDV) is a major health and economic problem in the farming industry. Vaccination of livestock against this highly infectious viral disease is crucial, and inactivated FMD vaccine has been effective at controlling infection. However, accumulated data show that the inactivated vaccine generates weak immune responses and that the oil formulation results in undesirable side effects. Mushroom lectins have recently been shown to display adjuvant effects when incorporated into DNA vaccines. In this study, to enhance the cellular immune response of FMDV antigen (146S), C57BL/6 mice were immunized with 146S combined with Xylaria hypoxylon lectin (XHL). The oil formulation (146S/Oil) was served as control group. Strong humoral immune responses were elicited in mice immunized with 146S/XHL as shown by high 146S antigen‐specific IgG levels, and also in 146S/Oil group. Interestingly, XHL in conjunction with inactivated FMD vaccine activated strong Th1 and Tc1 cell responses, especially Tfh cell responses, in immunized mice. XHL stimulated dendritic cell maturation by upregulating expression of major histocompatibility complex II (MHCII) molecules and co‐stimulatory molecules CD40 and CD86 in immunized mice. No XHL‐specific IgG or inflammatory factors were detected indicating the safety of XHL as an adjuvant. Taken together, these results suggest the effectiveness of XHL at inducing cellular immune responses and therefore confirm its suitability as an adjuvant for inactivated FMD vaccine.
Services Linkages and the Value Added Content of Trade
Authors: Francois Joseph , Manchin Miriam , Tomberger Patrick
Published: August 2015

Working with a set of global social accounting matrices spanning intermittent years from 1992 to 2011, this paper examines the services embodied in trade on a value added basis. Data include not only the direct and indirect contribution of services to value added contained in a given country's exports, but also the extent to which third‐country value added in services, through intermediate linkages of imported goods and services, is also embodied in production and trade. Our data indicate, in line with previous findings, that the ratio of value added to gross trade has been decreasing both for goods and for services, which is consistent with growing vertical production fragmentation. On the other hand, while value added in goods sectors including indirect exports is less than the gross value of exports, in services, it is greater, highlighting the service intensity of trade.
Progression of anemia and its relationship with renal function, blood pressure, and erythropoietin in rats with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Phillips Jacqueline K. , Boyd Rochelle , Krockenberger Mark B. , Burgio Gaetan
Published: August 2015

Background

In chronic kidney disease (CKD), anemia and hypertension are significant co‐morbidities that contribute to cardiovascular and renal disease progression.

Objective

The purpose of the study was to identify correlations between changes in hematologic variables against markers of renal function, blood pressure, and erythropoietin (EPO) in a naturally occurring hypertensive model of CKD, the Lewis polycystic kidney (LPK) rat.

Methods

Complete blood count, systolic blood pressure, urea and creatinine concentration, urinary protein to creatinine ratio, and plasma EPO concentration were determined in control Lewis (n = 51) and LPK rats (n = 56) aged 6–24 weeks. Renal EPO gene expression and RBC osmotic fragility were also documented. Hematopoiesis in spleen and bone marrow were assessed.

Results

Lewis polycystic kidney rats had increasing urea and creatinine concentrations, concurrent with the development of a nonregenerative normocytic/normochromic anemia and hypertension, with a significant negative correlation between both HGB and HCT with urea concentration and blood pressure (P < .01). HCT was also significantly negatively correlated with creatinine concentration (P = .014). WBC was significantly negatively correlated with urea (P < .01). Plasma EPO concentration was increased and renal EPO mRNA expression was significantly upregulated in LPK animals. The former was significantly positively correlated with blood pressure and platelet count (P < .05). RBC osmotic fragility was normal in LPK rats and there was no evidence for increased RBC elimination or extramedullary hematopoiesis.

Conclusions

Marked anemia in the LPK CKD rodent model in the presence of elevated EPO suggests inefficient erythropoiesis that is correlated with plasma urea concentration and blood pressure.
Gas density alters expiratory time constants before and after experimental lung injury
Authors: Henderson William R. , Molgat‐Seon Yannick , Dominelli Paolo B. , Brasher Penelope M. A. , Griesdale Donald E. G. , Foster Glen E. , Yacyshyn Alexandra , Ayas Najib T. , Sheel A. William
Published: August 2015

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Does the induction of a model of lung injury affect the expiratory time constant (τE) in terms of either total duration or morphology? Does ventilation with gases of different densities alter the duration or morphology of τE either before or after injury?

What is the main finding and its importance?

The use of sulfur hexafluoride in ventilating gas mixtures lengthens total expiratory time constants before and after lung injury compared with both nitrogen and helium mixtures. Sulfur hexafluoride mixtures also decrease the difference and variability of τE between fast‐ and slow‐emptying compartments before and after injury when compared with nitrogen and helium mixtures.

Acute lung injury is characterized by regional heterogeneity of lung resistance and elastance that may lead to regional heterogeneity of expiratory time constants (τE). We hypothesized that increasing airflow resistance by using inhaled sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) would lengthen time constants and decrease their heterogeneity in an experimental model of lung injury when compared with nitrogen or helium mixtures. To overcome the limitations of a single‐compartment model, we employed a multisegment model of expiratory gas flow. An experimental model of lung injury was created using intratracheal injection of sodium polyacrylate in anaesthetized and mechanically ventilated female Yorkshire‐cross pigs (n = 7). The animals were ventilated with 50% O2 and the remaining 50% as nitrogen (N2), helium (He) or sulfur hexafluoride (SF6). Values for τE decreased with injury and were more variable after injury than before (P < 0.001). Values for τE increased throughout expiration both before and after injury, and the rate of increase in τE was lessened by SF6 (P < 0.001 when compared with N2 both before and after injury). Altering the inhaled gas density did not affect indices of oxygenation, dead space or shunt. The use of SF6 in ventilating gas mixtures lengthens total expiratory time constants before and after lung injury compared with both N2 and He mixtures. Importantly, SF6 mixtures also decrease the difference and variability of τE between fast‐ and slow‐emptying compartments before and after injury when compared with N2 and He mixtures.
A Cervico-Thoraco-Lumbar Multibody Dynamic Model for the Estimation of Joint Loads and Muscle Forces
Authors: Khurelbaatar Tsolmonbaatar , Kim Kyungsoo , Hyuk Kim Yoon
Published: August 2015

Computational musculoskeletal models have been developed to predict mechanical joint loads on the human spine, such as the forces and moments applied to vertebral and facet joints and the forces that act on ligaments and muscles because of difficulties in the direct measurement of joint loads. However, many whole-spine models lack certain elements. For example, the detailed facet joints in the cervical region or the whole spine region may not be implemented. In this study, a detailed cervico-thoraco-lumbar multibody musculoskeletal model with all major ligaments, separated structures of facet contact and intervertebral disk joints, and the rib cage was developed. The model was validated by comparing the intersegmental rotations, ligament tensile forces, facet joint contact forces, compressive and shear forces on disks, and muscle forces were to those reported in previous experimental and computational studies both by region (cervical, thoracic, or lumbar regions) and for the whole model. The comparisons demonstrated that our whole spine model is consistent with in vitro and in vivo experimental studies and with computational studies. The model developed in this study can be used in further studies to better understand spine structures and injury mechanisms of spinal disorders.
Theoretical Model of Buoyancy-Induced Flow in Rotating Cavities
Authors: Owen J. Michael , Tang Hui
Published: August 2015

The Ekman-layer equations, which have previously been solved for isothermal source–sink flow in a rotating cavity, are derived for buoyancy-induced flow. Although the flow in the inviscid core is three-dimensional and unsteady, it is assumed that the flow in the Ekman layers is axisymmetric and steady; and, as for source–sink flow, the average mass flow rate in the Ekman layers is assumed to be invariant with radius. In addition, it is assumed that the flow in the core is adiabatic, and consequently the core temperature increases with radius and with rotational speed. Approximate solutions are obtained for laminar flow, and it is shown that the Nusselt numbers for the rotating disks and the mass flow rate in the Ekman layers are proportional to Grc1/4, where Grc is a Grashof number based on the rotational Reynolds number and the temperature difference between the disk and the core. The equation for the Nusselt numbers, which includes two empirical constants, depends strongly on the radial distribution of the temperature of the disks.
Experimental Analysis of the Pressure Field Inside a Vaneless Diffuser From Rotating Stall Inception to Surge
Authors: Bianchini Alessandro , Biliotti Davide , Tommaso Rubino Dante , Ferrari Lorenzo , Ferrara Giovanni
Published: August 2015

An accurate estimation of rotating stall is one of the key points for high-pressure centrifugal compressors, as it is often connected with the onset of detrimental subsynchronous vibrations which can prevent the machine from operating beyond this limit. With particular reference to vaneless diffuser rotating stall, the most common practice in industrial machines is to make use of a limited number of dynamic pressure probes to reconstruct the stall characteristics after an ensemble averaging approach. In this study, a 1:1 model of an industrial compressor stage was tested in a dedicated test rig and equipped with 24 pressure probes properly distributed along the diffuser circumference with the scope of providing a real-time visualization of the spatial pressure distribution within the diffuser. The results allowed the assessment of some important characteristics of the stall cells that were historically supposed based on averaged data, e.g., the cells rigidity. Moreover, the present study confirmed the existence of a stall pattern with two almost axisymmetric lobes. Finally, the transient analysis of both the stall inception (SI) and the surge onset (SO) was carried out, highlighting the flow field evolution in the diffuser under these conditions.
Effects of Blade Deformation on the Performance of a High Flow Coefficient Mixed Flow Impeller
Authors: Hazby Hamid , Woods Ian , Casey Michael , Numakura Ryusuke , Tamaki Hideaki
Published: August 2015

The effects of blade deformation under running conditions on the performance of a highly loaded transonic mixed flow impeller were investigated. Two impellers were manufactured, one using the “running” blade profiles as designed and one using the converted “unrunning” or “cold” geometry. Both impellers were tested experimentally and investigated numerically. The test data taken with smooth casing showed that at maximum speed, the isentropic efficiency and pressure ratio of the running geometry was higher than the unrunning geometry by about 0.4% and 1.4%, respectively. However, the difference in performance diminished in the presence of recirculating casing treatment. Numerical calculations suggested that the differences at high speeds were mainly due to the variation in the impeller tip clearance. The calculations using deformed blade profiles under centrifugal load only, predicted performance differences which were about twice as high as the measured values. However, closer predictions were obtained when the effects of pressure loads on blade deformation were included using closely coupled fluid-structural analyses.
Heat Transfer to an Actively Cooled Shroud With Blade Rotation
Authors: Tamunobere Onieluan , Drewes Christopher , Acharya Sumanta , Nakamata Chiyuki
Published: August 2015

An experimental study of the shroud heat transfer behavior and the effectiveness of shroud cooling are undertaken in a single-stage turbine at low rotation speeds. The shroud consists of a periodic distribution of laterally oriented cooling holes that are angled at 45 deg to the shroud surface in a repeating circumferential pattern and has five unique hole pitches in the axial direction. Measurements of the normalized Nusselt number and film cooling effectiveness are done using liquid crystal thermography. These measurements are reported for the no-coolant case and nominal blowing ratios (BRs) of 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, and 3.0. The tests are performed at an inflow Reynolds number of 17,500 corresponding to a scaled down design rotation speed of 550 rpm, and two off-design speeds imposed by a motor: (1) a rotation speed below the design speed (400 rpm) and (2) a rotation speed above the design speed (700 rpm). The results at the design speed show that increasing the BR increases the area-averaged film cooling effectiveness, while the Nu/Nu0 in the shroud hole region decreases. As the rotor speed is changed from the design speed, the high Nu/Nu0 region migrates on the shroud surface. This migration affects the coolant coverage in the shroud hole region resulting in increased coolant coverage at below-design rotation speeds and decreased coolant coverage at above-design rotation speeds. At all rotation speeds, as the BR increases, the area-averaged film cooling effectiveness in the shroud hole region increases. Decreasing the circumferential shroud coolant hole spacing changes the lateral heat transfer profile from a periodic sinusoidal distribution for a shroud hole spacing of P/D = 10.4 to a more even distribution for a smaller shroud hole spacing (P/D = 4.8).
Experimental Investigation of Single-Phase Heat Transfer in a Plate Heat Exchanger
Authors: Khan Tariq S. , Khan Mohammad S. , Ayub Zahid H.
Published: August 2015

The present experimental study is carried out to verify previously published heat transfer results attained using a simpler yet nascent data reduction technique for the same plate heat exchanger. A gasketed, commercially available plate heat exchanger with mixed (30/60) plate configuration was used in this study to obtain experimental heat transfer coefficient using modified Wilson plot method for data reduction. The comparison between current data and previously published results has shown excellent agreement between the two techniques hence verifying the results of the simpler method used earlier.
The supplement sleuth
Authors: Couzin-Frankel Jennifer
Published: August 2015

Some dietary supplements are spiked with drugs. Pieter Cohen is out to expose the hazards.
Membrane potential modulates plasma membrane phospholipid dynamics and K-Ras signaling
Authors: Zhou Yong , Wong Ching-On , Cho Kwang-jin , van der Hoeven Dharini , Liang Hong , Thakur Dhananiay P. , Luo Jialie , Babic Milos , Zinsmaier Konrad E. , Zhu Michael X. , Hu Hongzhen , Venkatachalam Kartik , Hancock John F.
Published: August 2015

Membrane potential regulates growth

Changes in electrical potential across the plasma membrane can affect cell growth. Zhou
et al.
discovered that membrane potential influenced the organization of phospholipids in the membrane of cultured mammalian cells and neurons in intact flies (see the Perspective by Accardi). This in turn regulated localization and activity of the small guanine nucleotide binding protein K-Ras, an important regulator of cell proliferation. The cell membrane may thus function analogously to a field-effect transistor by adjusting the strength of mitogenic signaling.

Science
, this issue p.
873
; see also p.
789
Achieving equality
Inequality
What Can Be Done?
Anthony B. Atkinson
Harvard University Press, 2015. 398 pp.
Authors: Fleurbaey Marc
Published: August 2015

Economist Anthony Atkinson proposes ambitious policies for combating inequality.
Forestry in the Anthropocene
Authors: Lugo Ariel E.
Published: August 2015

Human activity has had enormous effects on the species composition of floras and faunas, creating new ecological biomes worldwide. A principal challenge in forestry research and conservation is how to deal with these novel ecosystems. Most attention to this phenomenon is centered on the negative effects of species introductions and the need to stem the tide of species invasion. However, we need to scientifically understand new ecosystems and learn to recognize adaptive species combinations that will function sustainably in changing environmental conditions.
Tolosa-Hunt syndrome: an arcane pathology of cavernous venous sinus
Authors: Arshad Adeel , Nabi Shahzaib , Panhwar Muhammad Siyab , Rahil Ali
Published: August 2015

Tolosa-Hunt syndrome, an idiopathic granulomatous inflammation of the cavernous sinus, is primarily a diagnosis of exclusion. The majority of patients present with unilateral orbital pain and features suggestive of paralysis of one or more of the cranial nerves passing through the cavernous sinus and/or superior orbital fissure. MRI of the head may show unilateral enhancement of the cavernous sinus and orbital apex. Treatment is with high-dose intravenous steroids followed by tapering oral steroids. Rapid amelioration of pain within 24–48 h supports this rare diagnosis. Resolution of neuropathies may take longer. We describe a case of a young man who presented with left periorbital pain, complete ophthalmoplaegia and ptosis of the left eye. MRI showed enhancement of the left cavernous sinus and orbital apex. High dose steroids led to complete resolution of pain, while ptosis and ophthalmoplaegia improved gradually.