bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment and management of severely obese children and adolescents
Authors: Wright Neil , Wales Jerry
Published: June 2016

Approximately 3% of children and adolescents in the UK have severe obesity. The incidence of cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension, hyperinsulinism and hyperlipidaemia approaches 20% in such individuals. Lifestyle intervention programmes and pharmacotherapy are effective in some individuals, but the relapse rate is high. In exceptional cases, bariatric surgery is effective. This review outlines the scale of the problem, highlights those at risk and discusses referral, current services, appropriate screening and therapeutic interventions.
Columella erosion secondary to nasal prongs in the neonate
Authors: Campbell Ewan , Pacifico Marc D
Published: June 2016

There is limited awareness of the risks of pressure necrosis to the columella when using nasal prongs in the neonate. Previous studies have found that signs of skin damage can occur rapidly—within days. This case report aims to illustrate a simple technique of prophylactically lowering the risk of septal injury (if prolonged use of nasal prongs is envisaged), as well as a way of conservatively treating already damaged skin areas. Routine daily skin inspections are also recommended.
Multifocal infantile haemangioma: a diagnostic challenge
Authors: Torres Erica , Rosa João , Leaute-Labreze Christine , Soares-de-Almeida Luis
Published: June 2016

We describe a case of a newborn who presented with multiple dark red macules that developed into red-to-purple papules associated with thrombocytopaenia. Abdominal ultrasound showed multiple hyperechoic papules and nodules. Endothelial cells from a skin biopsy stained positively for endothelial cell glucose transporter 1, which was consistent with a diagnosis of multifocal infantile haemangioma. At the age of 2 months, the child developed intestinal bleeding and anaemia. Upper and lower endoscopies showed no intestinal haemangiomas. Oral treatment with propranolol (3 mg/kg/day) resulted in complete involution of the skin and hepatic haemangiomas over the period of treatment, which lasted until the child was aged 15 months. This is a rare case of multifocal cutaneous haemangioma with hepatic and probable intestinal involvement, successfully treated with propranolol.
Injury and illness in aquatic sport: how high is the risk? A comparison of results from three FINA World Championships
Authors: Prien Annika , Mountjoy Margo , Miller Jim , Boyd Kevin , van den Hoogenband Cees , Gerrard David , Cherif Mohamed Yahia , Lu Yifan , Nanousis Kyriakos , Ortiz Liscano Edgar Ivan , Shahpar Farhad Moradi , Junge Astrid
Published: June 2016

Background

Epidemiological information on injury/illness is required to develop effective injury prevention strategies.

Aim

To assess the frequency and characteristics of injuries/illnesses (1) in the 4 weeks prior to and (2) during the Fédération Internationale de Natation (FINA) World Championships 2015 compared with 2013 and 2009.

Method

(1) Athletes answered a retrospective questionnaire, and (2) the medical staff reported injuries/illnesses prospectively during the championships.

Results

(1) A quarter of responding athletes reported symptoms in the 4 weeks prior to the championships. More than half of all affected athletes presented with substantial severity, 80% took medication, 70% had overuse injuries and 30% did not modify their training regime despite symptoms. At the start of the championships, 70% of affected participants were still symptomatic. (2) During the championships, injury and illness incidence was 12.9 per 100 athletes. The most common injuries were shoulder sprains (5.7%) and muscle cramps of the lower back (5.7%). The most common illnesses were infections of the respiratory (33.9%) and gastrointestinal tract (23.5%). Risk factors included discipline and age, but not gender. Incidence was highest in athletes competing in high diving (HD), water polo (WP) and diving (DIV) for injuries, and WP and swimming (SW) for illnesses. The significantly higher incidence of injuries and illnesses at the FINA World Championships 2015 compared with 2013 and 2009 was most probably due to a similarly improved response rate of the medical staff.

Conclusions

In aquatic sports, surveillance and health promotion should focus on prevention of out-of-competition overuse injuries and athlete education.
Effect modification ofFADS2polymorphisms on the association between breastfeeding and intelligence: protocol for a collaborative meta-analysis
Authors: Hartwig Fernando Pires , Davies Neil Martin , Horta Bernardo Lessa , Victora Cesar Gomes , Davey Smith George
Published: June 2016

Introduction

Evidence from observational studies and randomised controlled trials suggests that breastfeeding is positively associated with IQ, possibly because breast milk is a source of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. Different studies have detected gene-breastfeeding interactions involvingFADS2variants and intelligence. However, findings are inconsistent regarding the direction of such effect modification.

Methods/design

To clarify howFADS2and breastfeeding interact in their association with IQ, we are conducting a consortium-based meta-analysis of independent studies. Results produced by each individual study using standardised analysis scripts and harmonised data will be used.Inclusion criteria: breastfeeding, IQ and either rs174575 or rs1535 polymorphisms available; and being of European ancestry.Exclusion criteria: twin studies; only poorly imputed genetic data available; or unavailability of proper ethics approval. Studies will be invited based on being known to have at least some of the required data, or suggested by participating studies as potentially eligible. This inclusive approach will favour achieving a larger sample size and be less prone to publication bias.

Discussion

Improving current understanding ofFADS2-breastfeeding interaction may provide important biological insights regarding the importance of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids for the breastfeeding-IQ association. This meta-analysis will help to improve such knowledge by replicating earlier studies, conducting additional analysis and evaluating different sources of heterogeneity. Publishing this protocol will minimise the possibility of bias due to post hoc changes to the analysis protocol.
Effectiveness of β-blockers in physically active patients with hypertension: protocol of a systematic review
Authors: Tučková Dagmar , Klugar Miloslav , Sovová Eliška , Sovová Markéta , Štégnerová Lenka
Published: June 2016

Introduction

Based on more than 5 decades of epidemiological studies, it is now widely accepted that higher physical activity patterns and levels of cardiorespiratory fitness are associated with better health outcomes. Therefore, it is necessary to consider how treatment methods affect these two components. Clinically, one very important question concerns the influence of aerobic performance on patients being treated for hypertension. The administration of β-blockers can significantly reduce maximal—and especially submaximal—aerobic exercise capacity. The objective of this review is to determine, by comparison of existing mono and combination therapy, which β-blockers are less physically limiting for patients with hypertension who are physically active.

Methods

A three-step strategy will be adopted in the review, following the methods used by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI). The initial search will be conducted using the MEDLINE and EMBASE databases. The second search will involve the listed databases for the published literature (MEDLINE, Biomedica Czechoslovaca, Tripdatabase, Pedro, EMBASE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cinahl, WoS) and the unpublished literature (Open Grey, Current Controlled Trials, MedNar, ClinicalTrials.gov, Cos Conference Papers Index, the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform of the WHO). Following the JBI methodology, analysis of title/abstracts and full texts, critical appraisal and data extraction will be carried out on selected studies using the JBI tool, MAStARI. This will be performed by two independent reviewers. If possible, statistical meta-analysis will be pooled. Statistical heterogeneity will be assessed. Subgroup analysis will be used for different age and gender characteristics. Funnel plots, Begg's rank correlation and Egger's regression test will be used to detect or correct publication bias.

Ethics and dissemination

The results will be disseminated by publishing in a peer-reviewed journal. Ethical assessment is not needed—we will search/evaluate the existing sources of literature.

Trial registration number

CRD42015026914.
Medical consumption compared for TIMI and HEART score in chest pain patients at the emergency department: a retrospective cost analysis
Authors: Nieuwets A , Poldervaart J M , Reitsma J B , Buitendijk S , Six A J , Backus B E , Hoes A W , Doevendans P A
Published: June 2016

Objective

To investigate which risk score (TIMI score or HEART score) identifies the largest population of low-risk patients at the emergency department (ED). Furthermore, we retrospectively calculated the corresponding expected decrease in medical consumption if these patients would have been discharged from the ED.

Methods

We performed analyses in two hospitals of the multicentre prospective validation study of the HEART score, executed in 2008 and 2009. Patients with chest pain presenting to the ED were included and information was collected on major adverse cardiac events (MACEs) and on hospital admissions and diagnostic procedures within 6 weeks. The TIMI and HEART score were calculated for each patient.

Results

We analysed 640 patients (59% male, mean age of 60, cumulative incidence of MACE 17%). An estimated total of €763 468 was spent during follow-up on hospital admission and diagnostic procedures. In total, 256 (40%) patients had a HEART score of 0–3 and were considered low risk (miss rate 1.6%), a total of €64 107 was spent on diagnostic procedures and hospital admission after initial presentation in this group. In comparison, 105 (16%) patients with TIMI score of 0 were considered low risk (miss rate 0%), with a total of €14 670 spent on diagnostic procedures and initial hospital admission costs. With different cut-offs for low risk, HEART 0–2 (miss rate 0.7%), would have resulted in a total of €25 365 in savings, compared with €71 905 when an alternative low risk cut-off for TIMI of TIMI≤1 would be used (miss rate 3.0%).

Conclusions

The HEART score identifies more patients as low risk compared with the TIMI score, which may lead to a larger reduction in diagnostic procedures and costs in this low-risk group. Future studies should prospectively investigate whether adhering to the HEART score in clinical practice and early discharge of low-risk patients is safe and leads to a reduction in medical consumption.
Effectiveness of a pharmacist-led educational intervention to reduce the use of high-risk abbreviations in an acute care setting in Saudi Arabia: a quasi-experimental study
Authors: Haseeb Abdul , Winit-Watjana Win , Bakhsh Abdul-Rahman R , Elrggal Mahmoud E , Hadi Muhammad Abdul , Mously Alaa A , Gadibalban Asmaa Z , Al-Ibraheem Bashayir F , Almubark Rasha A , Ekram Rawan A , Khan Tahir Mehmood
Published: June 2016

Objectives

To evaluate the effectiveness of a pharmacist-led educational intervention to reduce the use of high-risk abbreviations (HRAs) by healthcare professionals.

Design

Quasi-experimental study consisting of a single group before-and-after study design.

Setting

A public emergency hospital in Mecca, Saudi Arabia.

Participants

660 (preintervention) and then 498 (postintervention) handwritten physician orders, medication administration records (MRAs) and pharmacy dispensing sheets of 482 and 388 patients, respectively, from emergency wards, inpatient settings and the pharmacy department were reviewed.

Intervention

The intervention consisted of a series of interactive lectures delivered by an experienced clinical pharmacist to all hospital staff members and dissemination of educational tools (flash cards, printed list of HRAs, awareness posters) designed in line with the recommendations of the Institute for Safe Medical Practices and the US Food and Drug Administration. The duration of intervention was from April to May 2011.

Main outcome

Reduction in the incidence of HRAs use from the preintervention to postintervention study period.

Findings

The five most common abbreviations recorded prior to the interventions were ‘IJ for injection’ (28.6%), ‘SC for subcutaneous’ (17.4%), drug name and dose running together (9.7%), ‘OD for once daily’ (5.8%) and ‘D/C for discharge’ (4.3%). The incidence of the use of HRAs was highest in discharge prescriptions and dispensing records (72.7%) followed by prescriptions from in-patient wards (47.3%). After the intervention, the overall incidence of HRA was significantly reduced by 52% (ie, 53.6% vs 25.5%; p=0.001). In addition, there was a statistically significant reduction in the incidence of HRAs across all three settings: the pharmacy department (72.7% vs 39.3%), inpatient settings (47.3% vs 23.3%) and emergency wards (40.9% vs 10.7%).

Conclusions

Pharmacist-led educational interventions can significantly reduce the use of HRAs by healthcare providers. Future research should investigate the long-term effectiveness of such educational interventions through a randomised controlled trial.
Screening of (–SEA) α-thalassaemia using an immunochromatographic strip assay for the ζ-globin chain in a population with a high prevalence and heterogeneity of haemoglobinopathies
Authors: Jomoui Wittaya , Fucharoen Goonnapa , Sanchaisuriya Kanokwan , Fucharoen Supan
Published: June 2016

Aims

The presence of the ζ-globin chain is a good marker of (--SEA) α0-thalassaemia. We evaluated an immunochromatographic (IC) strip assay for ζ-globin in screening for (--SEA) α0-thalassaemia in a population with a high prevalence and heterogeneity of haemoglobinopathies.

Methods

The study was carried out on 300 screen positive blood samples of Thai individuals. The IC strip assay for the ζ-globin chain was performed on all samples. The results were interpreted with thalassaemia genotyping using standard haemoglobin and DNA analyses.

Results

Several thalassaemia genotypes were noted. Among the 300 subjects investigated, 79 had a positive IC strip assay for ζ-globin and (--SEA) α0-thalassaemia was identified in 40 of them. No (--SEA) α0-thalassaemia was detected in the remaining 39 samples with a positive IC strip test result or in the 221 samples with a negative IC strip test result. Further DNA analysis identified α+-thalassaemia in 25 of the 39 (--SEA) α0-thalassaemia negative samples. Using this IC strip assay in combination with a conventional screening protocol for (--SEA) α0-thalassaemia could provide sensitivity and specificity of 100% and 90.4%, respectively.

Conclusions

IC strip assay for ζ-globin is simple, rapid and does not require sophisticated equipment. Use of this test in addition to the existing screening protocol could detect potential (--SEA) α0-thalassaemia leading to a significant reduction in the workload of DNA analysis. This could be used in areas where haemoglobinopathies are prevalent and heterogeneous but molecular testing is not available.
Dual antiplatelet therapy may increase the risk of non-intracranial haemorrhage in patients with minor strokes: a subgroup analysis of the CHANCE trial
Authors: Wang David , Gui Li , Dong Yi , Li Hao , Li Shujuan , Zheng Huaguang , Wang Anxin , Meng Xia , Liu Li-Ping , Wang Yi-Long , Wang Guangyao , Jing Jing , Li Zixiao , Zhao Xing-Quan , Wang Yong-Jun
Published: June 2016

Aim

The aim of this study was to explore the difference between haemorrhagic events among those patients on either aspirin or aspirin plus clopidogrel who were enrolled in the Clopidogrel in High-Risk Patients with Acute Non-disabling Ischemic Cerebrovascular Events (CHANCE) trial.

Methods

This was an ad hoc analysis of the CHANCE trial; data on all patients with any haemorrhagic event were reviewed and analysed. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to determine factors association with any bleeding.

Results

In the CHANCE trial, there were a total of 101 (2%) haemorrhagic events reported from 50 different hospitals. The clopidogrel–aspirin group had 60 (2.3%) cases and the aspirin group had 41 (1.6%, p=0.09). Moderate or severe haemorrhagic events occurred in 7 patients (0.3%) in the clopidogrel–aspirin group and in 8 (0.3%) in the aspirin group (p=0.73). Of 36 (0.7%) cases of intracranial haemorrhages, 20 (0.4%) were in the clopidogrel–aspirin group and 16 (0.3%) in the aspirin group. Each group had 8 (0.3%) cases of symptomatic haemorrhagic strokes. Other common haemorrhagic events included 24 (0.5%) cases of skin bruises, 13 (0.3%) gastrointestinal haemorrhages, 9 (0.2%) gum haemorrhages and 8 (0.2%) intraocular haemorrhages.

Conclusions

There was no overall significant difference in haemorrhagic events (p=0.29), especially in the rate of intracranial haemorrhages between the 2 treatment groups. However, patients enrolled with minor strokes had an increased risk of haemorrhagic events regardless of treatment group, not seen in patients with high-risk transient ischaemic attacks. Being elderly, of male gender and with a history of aspirin or proton pump inhibitor usage were associated with increased risk of haemorrhage. Patients with higher body mass index had lower risk of haemorrhagic events.

Trial registration number

NCT00979589.
Meningitis and orchitis in a hare (Lepus europaeus) infected with Francisella tularensis
Authors: Gregoire Fabien , Cassart Dominique , Desmecht Daniel J M , Madani Nora , Linden Annick
Published: June 2016

In southern Belgium, a brown hare (Lepus europaeus) was found moribund and killed for ethical reason. The animal was transmitted for postmortem examination. Major histopathological findings consisted of multifocal subacute necrotising meningitis and multifocal subacute necrotising orchitis. Infection with Francisella tularensis was confirmed by both bacteriological isolation and detection by real‐time PCR. Further, subtyping of F tularensis colonies stated that it was F tularensis subspecies holarctica biovar I. It is the first case of tularaemia detected in wildlife in Belgium since 2003. The event pushed health professionals to communicate with hunters and other groups with outdoor activities about the Francisella risk and the ways to take care of it, such as wearing gloves to handle found‐dead or hunted hares and taking protective measures against tick bites.
Opinions of veterinarians on antimicrobial use in farm animals in Flanders and the Netherlands
Authors: Postma M. , Speksnijder D. C. , Jaarsma A. D. C. , Verheij T. J. M. , Wagenaar J. A. , Dewulf J.
Published: June 2016

Veterinarians play an important role in the reduction of antimicrobial use in farm animals. This study aims to quantify opinions of veterinarians from the Netherlands and Flanders regarding antimicrobial use and resistance issues in farm animals. An online survey was sent out to 678 and 1100 farm animal veterinarians in Flanders and the Netherlands, of which 174 and 437 were returned respectively. Suboptimal climate conditions were regarded as the most important cause for high antimicrobial use in farm animals. Flemish veterinarians also regarded insufficient biosecurity measures and farmers’ mentality as important determinants, while the Dutch respondents ranked insufficient immunity of young animals and economic considerations of farmers as major causes. The majority of Dutch respondents (63.8 per cent) supported the existing national policy, which aimed to halve veterinary antimicrobial use, while the Flemish (32.9 per cent) were less supportive of such a policy. Improvements in housing and climate conditions, biosecurity measures and strict control of specific infectious diseases were seen as important and promising measures to reduce antimicrobial use. To reduce antimicrobial use in farm animals, some shared approaches might be applicable in both countries. However, cultural, political and societal differences between Flanders and the Netherlands require differentiated approaches to reduce veterinary antimicrobial use.
The Scenedesmus (Chlorophyceae) unicell: its importance to the species concept in the genus
Authors: Egan Patrick F. , Trainor Francis R.
Published: June 2016

Unicell production in 21 strains of Scenedesmus was investigated in our medium 7, Bristol's medium, and soil extract to gather data to be used in species determinations. All strains produced unicells. Three types of unicells were observed. Six strains consistently produced type A unicells. These were ovate or broadly ovoid in shape (4.0–15.3 × 2.2–9.5 μm) with four polar spines. One set of two spines was at right angles to the set at the opposing pole. Associated spine-bearing coenobia produced longitudinal ridges on the walls of the cells. Ten strains were identified as S. armatus (Chod.) Chod. sensu Egan & Trainor. Twenty-four taxa are placed in synonymy with S. armatus. Type B unicells (4.6–12.7 × 2.3–9.5 μm) possessed six or more spines that were not restricted to the poles of the cells. There were two type B subgroups. A specific coenobial form could not be associated consistently with either type B, or type C unicells. Type C unicells (4.6–12.1 × 2.9–8.1 μm) possessed five or six spines restricted to the polar regions of the cells. There were three type C subgroups. The unicells of two strains of S. communis Hegew. produced only small form coenobia distinct from typical S. communis-type coenobia. Key words: cell density, development, Scenedesmus, species, spine-pattern, unicell.
Kengyilia gobicola, a new taxon from west China
Authors: Yen Chi , Yang Jun-Liang
Published: June 2016

Kengyilia gobicola is a new taxon from west China. It has P, S, and Y genomes different from Roegneria and Elymus, and is closely related to Roegneria and Agropyron. In this paper, the morphological characteristics of this taxon have been described in Latin, and the results of karyotype analysis are reported. Key words: new genus, new species, Kengyilia gobicola.
Purification and characterization of a constitutive polygalacturonase associated with the infection process of French bean leaves by Botrytis cinerea
Authors: Leone G. , Schoffelmeer E. A. M. , Heuvel J. Van den
Published: June 2016

The constitutively produced polygalacturonase isoenzyme PG2 was isolated from culture filtrates of Botrytis cinerea, purified to homogeneity, and characterized. The shape of titration curves of PG2 and two other polygalacturonase isoenzymes explained the difficulties found in separating superimposed pectic enzyme activities during the purification procedure. PG2 hydrolyzed sodium polygalacturonate more quickly than pectin. The optimal pH for PG2 activity with polygalacturonate was 4.5 and with pectin, 4.0. PG2 activity was also influenced by the presence of NaCl or CaCl2 in the reaction mixture. Analysis of the breakdown products by paper chromatography and a comparison of the reaction rate by viscosimetry and reducing group assay revealed that PG2 has an endocatalytic mode of action on polygalacturonate. The isoelectric point and the molecular mass of PG2 were estimated to be 9.1 and 23.0 kDa, respectively. Key words: Botrytis cinerea, chromatofocusing, endopolygalacturonase, purification, substrate specificity, titration curve.
Composition chimique de sèves xylémiques du genre Lycopersicon (Solanaceae) en relation avec l'environnement. I. Effet de la température
Authors: Brunet Philippe , Sarrobert Bruno , Paris-Pireyre Nicole , Risterucci Ange-Marie
Published: June 2016

Two species of tomato, Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. var. EGE12P1 and Lycopersicon hirsutum Humb. & Bonpl. ecotype LA 1777, were submitted to two temperature treatments, 20 or 10 °C. After a short study of plant growth, we analysed the chemical composition (cations, anions, and amino acids) of xylem sap by high performance liquid chromatography. A comparison of fresh weight increase at 20 and 10 °C of both plant species showed that L. hirsutum was the least affected by low temperature. The volumes of secreted sap and the quantities of ions transported showed great disturbances in the sensitive species (L. esculentum), especially in the case of potassium. In xylem sap of both species studied, but only at 10 °C, we noticed the appearance of ammonium. The possibility of contamination during analytical processing was eliminated. Moreover, determinations of amino acids levels showed that ammonium did not arise from degradation of amides present in xylem sap. In any event, the proportion of nitrate absorbed and reduced in roots increased at low temperature; it is much more important in L. hirsutum and could constitute a tolerance factor to low temperatures. Key words: ammonium, low temperature, Lycopersicon, xylem sap.
Composition chimique de sèves xylémiques du genre Lycopersicon (Solanaceae) en relation avec l'environnement. II. Effet de la salinité
Authors: Sarrobert Bruno , Brunet Philippe , Paris-Pireyre Nicole , Risterucci Ange-Marie
Published: June 2016

Two tomato species, Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. var. Edkawy and Lycopersicon cheesmanii (Hook) C. H. Mull, ecotype LA 1138, were grown in saline (100 mM NaCl) conditions. The study of weight increase of these two species showed that L. cheesmanii was the least affected by salinity. The chemical composition of xylem sap (cations, anions, amino acids) was analysed by high performance liquid chromatography. This study demonstrated a control of NaCl transport in L. esculentum, but not in L. cheesmanii. Moreover, ammonium appeared in xylem sap of L. cheesmanii in saline culture. Different hypotheses about its origin are discussed. Key words: ammonium, salinity, xylem sap, Lycopersicon.
The fine structure of the zoospore of Sorochytrium milnesiophthora
Authors: Dewel Ruth Ann , Dewel William C.
Published: June 2016

As a part of an investigation of Sorochytrium milnesiophthora Dewel, a parasite of the tardigrade Milnesium tardigradum, the ultrastructure of the zoospore was examined. In overall organization, the zoospore is similar to the spores of the Blastocladiales. The nucleus is conical and located in the posterior third of the cell. A large nuclear cap is anterior to the nucleus. In an arrangement unique for members of the Blastocladiales, the nuclear cap contains, in addition to aggregated ribosomes, a single complex mitochondrion, lipid globules, and microbodies. Portions of the nuclear cap extend posteriorly and partially surround the kinetosome. The kinetosome has nine anterior rootletlike projections that link it to the mitochondrion and nine posterior kinetosomal props that attach it to the plasmalemma. It lies at the base of the nucleus as an anchor for a single, posterior whiplash flagellum. A nonkinetosomal centriole is positioned at an approximate 45° angle to the kinetosome. In the peripheral cytoplasm, there are three structurally distinct types of inclusions hypothesized to be adhesion vesicles, phosphate storage bodies, and gamma-like particles. Therefore, the ultrastructure of the zoospore supports the inclusion of this fungus in the Blastocladiales. Key words: Blastocladiales, zoospore, ultrastructure.
Seed germination ecology of poison hemlock, Conium maculatum
Authors: Baskin Jerry M. , Baskin Carol C.
Published: June 2016

In north-central Kentucky, United States, seeds of Conium maculatum are dispersed from mid-September to mid to late February, with up to 95% of them being dispersed by late December. Depending on the year, 40–85% of the freshly matured seeds had morphological dormancy (MD) and thus needed only a moist substrate, 10–15 14-h photoperiod days and 12-h alternating thermoperiods of 30:15 °C for embryo growth and germination. The other seeds had morphophysiological dormancy (MPD), and embryo dormancy had to be broken before embryo growth and germination could occur. MPD was broken in some of the undispersed seeds during summer, and by September 50–85% (depending on the year) germinated at 25:15 °C in light. During late autumn and winter, 35–95% (depending on the year) of the undispersed seeds in MD in autumn entered MPD. Cold stratification at 5 °C induced about half the seeds with MD into MPD. Seeds in MD germinated to higher percentages on soil than on sand, and in light than in darkness. Most of the seeds sown on soil in a nonheated greenhouse in July, August, and September germinated in September. Seeds sown in October and November germinated in autumn, late winter, and the following autumn, and those sown in late winter germinated in spring and autumn. The later seeds were sown, the higher germination percentages were the following autumn. Key words: dispersal, dormancy, germination, morphological dormancy, poison hemlock, Conium maculatum, monocarpic perennial.
Sapindaceous flowers from the Middle Eocene Princeton chert (Allenby Formation) of British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Erwin Diane M. , Stockey Ruth A.
Published: June 2016

Seventeen small, staminate flowers, 3.0–4.5 mm long × 1.0–1.5 mm wide, representing two developmental stages of the same type of flower have been recovered from the Middle Eocene Princeton chert locality of British Columbia. Some specimens are immature buds with overlapping perianth parts enclosing the stamens; others represent mature flowers with an open perianth. Flowers are pedicellate with a small flat receptacle bearing a perianth of at least three sepals and up to four petals. Five specimens show a three- to four-lobed rudimentary pistil surrounded by an intrastaminal nectary disk. The 10 stamens are included or barely exserted with nonconnate filaments, 1.2–2.0 mm long, attached by a slender connective to large dithecal anthers up to about 0.9 mm long that open by longitudinal slits. The anther wall is represented by a palisadelike endothecium composed of cells that are thick-walled and radially elongated relative to the long axis of the anther. Abundant in situ pollen is semitectate–columellate, tricolporate, subprolate to prolate, and prominently striated with equatorially bridged colpi. This fossil combines flower and pollen characteristics similar to those of the Sapindaceae, resembling most closely the tribe Dodonaeeae. Key words: Sapindales, Dodonaeeae, Tertiary, permineralization, flowers, pollen.
An analysis of architectural parameters of male and female Fraxinus pennsylvanica in relation to crown shape and crown location
Authors: Davidson Campbell G. , Remphrey William R.
Published: June 2016

Architectural variables from male and female green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica var. subintergerrima (Vahl) Fern.) comprising three different crown-shape classes were analyzed at four different crown levels to determine which variables influenced crown shape. The narrow conical shape class had the largest mid shoot diameters and the smallest shoot tip abortion frequencies. The broad to round shape class had greater abortion frequency overall. In addition, there was less difference in shoot length between the top and bottom of the crown. The more oval shape class was intermediate for both shoot diameters and abortion frequency. Parent and daughter shoot lengths were longer, midshoot diameters larger, and elevation angles greater with increasing sampling height in the tree. Male trees had shorter shoot lengths and shorter and fewer daughter lateral shoots than female trees. Principal component analysis was used to identify shoot lengths, elevation angles, and abortion frequencies as potentially key variables in understanding crown shape in green ash. Interrelationships of many of the architectural variables suggest that a significant change in one may lead to changes in others, which ultimately would lead to changes in overall crown shape.
X-ray micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) of pyrite-permineralized fruits and seeds from the London Clay Formation (Ypresian) conserved in silicone oil: a critical evaluation
Authors: Collinson Margaret E. , Adams Neil F. , Manchester Steven R. , Stull Gregory W. , Herrera Fabiany , Smith Selena Y. , Andrew Mary J. , Kenrick Paul , Sykes Dan
Published: June 2016

Pyrite-permineralized fruits and seeds from the London Clay Formation (Ypresian; England) in the NHMUK are stored in silicone oil to retard decay processes. X-ray micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) has revealed internal morphology for multiple holotypes (including severely cracked and encrusted specimens) scanned in the protective fluid. Silicone oil alone has a similar X-ray attenuation to parts of the specimens, causing minor uncertainty for digitally rendered surfaces, but key systematic characters are readily visualized. Further work is needed to optimize visualization of fine-scale cellular detail. Labelling and segmentation to visualize important structures is achievable with these micro-CT datasets. However, manual labelling of individual slices is required, and defining boundaries between features can be difficult due to differential pyritization and silicone oil permeation. Digital sections through specimens can be made in any orientation and digital locule casts can be produced for studies in virtual taphonomy. These achievements have been accomplished with minimal risk to specimens, which remained in silicone oil and were studied within the museum. The datasets provide a potentially permanent record of at-risk specimens, can be made widely available to researchers unable to visit the collections and to other interested parties, and they enable monitoring for future conservation.
Towards an integrated database on Canadian ocean resources: benefits, current states, and research gaps
Authors: Cisneros-Montemayor Andrés Miguel , Cheung William Wai Lung , Bodtker Karin , Teh Louise , Steiner Nadja , Bailey Megan , Hoover Carie , Sumaila Ussif Rashid
Published: June 2016

Oceanic ecosystem services support a range of human benefits, and Canada has extensive research networks producing growing data sets. We present a first effort to compile, link, and harmonize available information to provide new perspectives on the status of Canadian ocean ecosystems and corresponding research. The metadata database currently includes 1094 individual assessments and data sets from government (n = 716), nongovernment (n = 320), and academic sources (n = 58), comprising research on marine species, natural drivers and resources, human activities, ecosystem services, and governance, with data sets spanning 1979–2012 on average. Overall, research shows a strong prevalence towards single-species fishery studies, with an underrepresentation of economic and social aspects, and of the Arctic region in general. Nevertheless, the number of studies that are multispecies or ecosystem-based have increased since the 1960s. We present and discuss two illustrative case studies — marine protected area establishment in Canada and herring resource use by the Heiltsuk First Nation — highlighting the potential use of multidisciplinary data sets drawn from metadata records. Identifying knowledge gaps is key to achieving the comprehensive, accessible and interdisciplinary data sets and subsequent analyses necessary for new sustainability policies that meet both ecological and socioeconomic needs.
Comparative analysis of sigma factors RpoS, FliA, and RpoN in Edwardsiella tarda
Authors: Song ShanShan , Xue Yuanyuan , Liu Enfu , Wang Keping , Zhang Yuanxing , Wu Haizhen , Zhang Huizhan
Published: June 2016

Sigma factors are important regulators that bacteria employ to cope with environmental changes. Studies on the functions of sigma factors have uncovered their roles in many important cellular activities, such as growth, stress tolerance, motility, biofilm formation, and virulence. However, comparative analyses of sigma factors that examine their common and unique features or elucidate their cross-regulatory relationships have rarely been conducted for Edwardsiella tarda. Here, we characterized and compared motility and resistance to oxidative stress of E. tarda strains complemented with rpoS, fliA, and rpoN mutants. The results suggest that the sigma factors FliA and RpoN regulated motility, whereas RpoS exhibited no such function. RpoS and RpoN were essential for oxidative stress resistance, whereas FliA had no obvious impact under oxidative stress conditions. Furthermore, 2-dimensional gel electrophoresis based proteomics analysis combined with matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry revealed 12 differentially expressed protein spots that represented 11 proteins between the mutant and wild-type strains. Quantification of the expression of target genes by quantitative reverse transcription PCR confirmed the results of our proteomics analysis. Collectively, these results suggest that these sigma factors are multifunctional mediators involved in controlling the expression of many metabolic pathway genes.
Insight into theKluyveromyces lactisPdr1p regulon
Authors: Toth Hervay Nora , Konecna Alexandra , Balazfyova Zuzana , Svrbicka Alexandra , Gbelska Yvetta
Published: June 2016

The overexpression of efflux pumps is an important mechanism leading to the development of multidrug resistance phenomenon. The transcription factor KlPdr1p, belonging to the Zn2Cys6family, is a central regulator of efflux pump expression in Kluyveromyces lactis. To better understand how KlPDR1-mediated drug resistance is achieved in K. lactis, we used DNA microarrays to identify genes whose expression was affected by deletion or overexpression of the KlPDR1 gene. Eighty-nine targets of the KlPDR1 were identified. From those the transcription of 16 genes was induced in the transformant overexpressing KlPDR1* and simultaneously repressed in the Klpdr1Δ deletion mutant. Almost all of these genes contain putative binding motifs for the AP-1-like transcription factors in their promoters. Furthermore, we studied the possible interplay between KlPdr1p and KlYap1p transcription factors. Our results show that KlYap1p does not significantly contribute to the regulation of KlPDR1 gene expression in the presence of azoles. However, KlPDR1 expression markedly increased in the presence of hydrogen peroxide and hinged upon the presence of KlYap1p. Our results show that although both KlPdr1p and KlYap1p transcription factors are involved in the control of K. lactis multidrug resistance, further studies will be needed to determine their interplay.
Exact solution at a transition to frequency synchronization of three coupled phase oscillators
Authors: El-Nashar Hassan F.
Published: June 2016

A model of three bidirectionally coupled phase oscillators in a ring is studied at the transition to a complete frequency synchronization. Analytic expressions for the critical coupling strengths, at which oscillators synchronize to a common frequency, are obtained. These expressions are determined for cases when the initial oscillators’ frequencies are arranged arbitrarily or they are assigned according to fixed separations. Three unidirectionally coupled phase oscillators are synchronized in an analogous manner to the bidirectional system. This finding allows us to find an analytic equation for the critical coupling strength in the case of the model of the unidirectionally coupled phase oscillators. The bifurcation diagrams show excellent agreement between the analytic formulas and the numerical solutions of the differential equations that describe the models.
Topological hardcore bosons on the honeycomb lattice
Authors: Owerre S.A.
Published: June 2016

This paper presents a connection between the topological properties of hardcore bosons and that of magnons in quantum spin magnets. We utilize the Haldane-like hardcore bosons on the honeycomb lattice as an example. We show that this system maps to a spin-1/2 quantum XY model with a next-nearest-neighbour Dzyaloshinsky–Moriya interaction. We obtain the magnon excitations of the quantum spin model and compute the edge states, Berry curvature, and thermal and spin Nernst conductivities. Because of the mapping from spin variables to bosons, the hardcore bosons possess the same nontrivial topological properties as those in quantum spin systems. These results are important in the study of magnetic excitations in quantum magnets and they are also useful for understanding the control of ultracold bosonic quantum gases in honeycomb optical lattices, which is experimentally accessible.
Biochar as soil amendment: Impact on chemical properties and corn nutrient uptake in a Podzol
Authors: Syuhada A.B. , Shamshuddin J. , Fauziah C.I. , Rosenani A.B. , Arifin A.
Published: June 2016

A study was conducted to investigate the impact of biochar amendment on chemical properties and corn nutrient uptake in a sandy Podzol soil. Four rates of biochar (0, 5, 10, and 15 g kg−1) and two rates of inorganic fertilizer (0 and local recommendation rate for corn) were randomly applied to a completely randomized design with four replicates. Corn was grown for 45 d in a glasshouse using sandy Podzol. The increase in pH of the soil was concomitant with a decrease of exchangeable Al. The fertilized soil significantly increased total N, with a concomitant decrease in soil pH due to a N nitrification. Positive changes did occur in the soil due to biochar application, leading to a significant increase in dry matter yield and corn height. Corn N and K uptakes were significantly increased by the addition of biochar, but the same was not true for Ca and Mg. However, it was found that the concentrations of N, Ca, and Mg in the corn tissue were still lower than their critical level. Our results demonstrate that application of biochar alone is not able to supply enough nutrients for the healthy growth of corn.
Comparison of models for predicting pore space indices and their relationships with CO2 and N2O fluxes in a corn–soybean field
Authors: Panday Dinesh , Nkongolo Nsalambi V.
Published: June 2016

Several models predict soil pore space indices (the relative gas diffusion coefficient, Ds/Do and the pore tortuosity, τ), but information is lacking on which models predicted indices better relate to soil processes. We compared pore space indices’ predictive models based on air-filled porosity (fa) alone vs. models using air-filled porosity and total pore space (Φ) (fa + Φ). We also assessed the relationships between these indices and CO2 and N2O. The study was conducted from 2011 to 2014 on a silt loam soil at Lincoln University. Soil samples were collected at 0–10 and 10–20 cm depth and oven dried at 105 °C for 72 h. After drying, fa and Φ were calculated and later used in models for predicting Ds/Do and τ. CO2 and N2O were measured with a Shimadzu gas chromatograph (GC) and a photoacoustic gas analyzer (PSA). Results showed that Ds/Do predicted using fa alone (Marshall and Buckingham) was higher as compared with values predicted with models based on fa + Φ (Sallam et al., Millington, and Jin and Jury) (P < 0.001). However, values of τ predicted with models based on fa alone were lowest (P < 0.001). CO2 and N2O measured with GC better related with Ds/Do and τ.
PRICE LINKAGES AMONG EMERGING GOLD FUTURES MARKETS
Authors: BAKLACI HASAN F. , SÜER ÖMÜR , YELKENCİ TEZER
Published: June 2016

The gold futures in emerging markets have gained more importance in parallel to the increase in the size of gold trading in these markets. This research aims to detect the long-run price linkages and causality effects in these markets. China, Brazil, Russia, India, Korea, Taiwan, Turkey and Indonesia have been selected to represent emerging markets. US and Japan are also included as benchmark markets. The results denote the existence of long-term price dependencies and limited risk diversification benefits in the sample countries. The results further signify that China and Russia are the most isolated countries among the emerging markets sample.
THE INFLUENCE OF THE SURFACE ORIENTATION ON THE MORPHOLOGY DURING HOMOEPITAXIAL GROWTH OF NICKEL BY MOLECULAR DYNAMICS SIMULATION
Authors: HASSANI A. , MAKAN A. , SBIAAI K. , TABYAOUI A. , HASNAOUI A.
Published: June 2016

Homoepitaxial growth film for (001), (110) and (111) Ni substrates is investigated by means of molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. Embedded atom method (EAM) is considered to represent the interaction potential between nickel atoms. The simulation is performed at 300[Formula: see text]K using an incident energy of 0.06[Formula: see text]eV. In this study, the deposition process is performed periodically and the period, [Formula: see text], is relative to a perfect layer filling. The coverage rate of the actual expected level, [Formula: see text], can be considered a determinant for thin-film growth of nickel. The [Formula: see text] level is the most filled level during the deposition on (001) substrate, while it is the less filled one in the case of (111) substrate. Moreover, the upper level is the one which is responsible for the surface roughness and the appearance time of an upper layer may also be a factor influencing the surface roughness. The deposition on (111) substrate induces the most rigorous surface with a rapid appearance time of the upper layers. The [Formula: see text] layers are almost completely filled for all substrates. The [Formula: see text] and lower layers are completely filled for (001) and (110) substrates while for (111) substrate the completely filled layers are [Formula: see text] and lower ones.
A MODEL OF DYNAMIC REWIRING AND KNOWLEDGE EXCHANGE IN R&D NETWORKS
Authors: TOMASELLO MARIO V. , TESSONE CLAUDIO J. , SCHWEITZER FRANK
Published: June 2016

This paper investigates the process of knowledge exchange in inter-firm Research and Development (R&D) alliances by means of an agent-based model. Extant research has pointed out that firms select alliance partners considering both network-related and network-unrelated features (e.g., social capital versus complementary knowledge stocks). In our agent-based model, firms are located in a metric knowledge space. The interaction rules incorporate an exploration phase and a knowledge transfer phase, during which firms search for a new partner and then evaluate whether they can establish an alliance to exchange their knowledge stocks. The model parameters determining the overall system properties are the rate at which alliances form and dissolve and the agents’ interaction radius. Next, we define a novel indicator of performance, based on the distance traveled by the firms in the knowledge space. Remarkably, we find that — depending on the alliance formation rate and the interaction radius — firms tend to cluster around one or more attractors in the knowledge space, whose position is an emergent property of the system. And, more importantly, we find that there exists an inverted U-shaped dependence of the network performance on both model parameters.
Influence Analysis in Consensus Search — A Multi Criteria Group Decision Making Approach in Environmental Management
Authors: Romero-Gelvez Jorge Ivan , Garcia-Melon Monica
Published: June 2016

The environmental decision problems often are divisive, even in a technical realm, decision makers with strong personalities influence outcomes. The purpose of this study is to define and quantify the factors that affect the conservation objectives of a national natural park located in Colombia, South America adding the judgments of six decision makers with different knowledge (every decision maker is also a stakeholder representative). This paper uses a hybrid multiple criteria group decision-making model (MCDM), combining the social network analysis (SNA), analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and similarity measures to solve the consensus and anchoring problem among environmental decision makers. The SNA technique is used to build an influential network relation map among decision makers and to obtain their weights for applying a weighted AHP. Then, the final decision matrices for every decision maker are compared between them in order to identify the consensus level of the problem.