bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Micronized fibres affect in vitro fermentation under normal buffered and osmotic stress conditions using porcine inocula
Authors: Aumiller T. , Mosenthin R. , Rink F. , Hartung K. , Weiss E.
Published: January 2015

In this in vitro study, the modified Hohenheim gas test was used to determine fermentation activity and bacterial composition of pig's faecal microbial inoculum, when fermenting a standard pig diet with varying levels of crude protein (CP; 20, 24 and 28% CP), and supplemented with one of three fibre sources manufactured by micronization treatment. These were wheat envelopes (MWE), pea fibre (MPF) and lupine fibre (MLF). For comparison, inulin was used. As intestinal bacteria have to cope with varying osmotic conditions in their ecosystem, fermentation was performed under normal buffered and osmotic stress conditions. After 24 h of fermentation, total gas production and ammonia production were measured. In addition, the effect of MWE and inulin on short‐chain fatty acid (SCFA) production and numbers of total eubacteria, Lactobacillus spp., Bifidobacterium spp., Enterobacteriaceae, Enterococcus spp., Clostridium cluster XIVa and Clostridium cluster IV, were determined using quantitative real‐time PCR. Under normal buffered conditions, supplementation of MWE resulted in increased (p < 0.05) SCFA, acetic, propionic and valerianic acid production at CP levels of 20 and 28%. There was an increase (p < 0.05) in ammonia production for the micronized supplements, and for MWE an increased (p < 0.05) branched‐chain proportion was observed, possibly due to higher availability of protein for fermentation which was released during the micronization process. Osmotic stress conditions reduced (p < 0.05) total gas as well as total SCFA, acetic and propionic acid production for all treatments, while cell counts were increased (p < 0.05) for Bifidobacterium spp., Enterococcus spp. and Lactobacillus spp. Under normal buffered conditions in combination with 24 and 28% CP levels, lactobacilli were increased for MWE, compared to inulin (p < 0.05). In conclusion, micronized supplements such as MWE may beneficially modulate pigs' intestinal microbiota by increasing SCFA production in addition to a selective proliferation of lactobacilli.
Effects of competition on acute phase proteins and lymphocyte subpopulations – oxidative stress markers in eventing horses
Authors: Valle E. , Zanatta R. , Odetti P. , Traverso N. , Furfaro A. , Bergero D. , Badino P. , Girardi C. , Miniscalco B. , Bergagna S. , Tarantola M. , Intorre L. , Odore R.
Published: January 2015

The aim of the study was to evaluate markers of the acute phase response (APR) in eventing horses by measuring acute phase proteins (APP) (haptoglobin, Hp, and serum amyloid A, SAA), lysozyme, protein adducts such as pentosidine‐like adducts (PENT), malondialdehyde adducts (MDA), hydroxynonenal adducts (HNE) and total advanced glycation/glycoxidation end products (AGEs), complete blood count and lymphocyte subpopulations (CD4+, CD8+ and CD21+) both at rest and at the end of an eventing competition. Blood samples were collected from eight Warmblood horses (medium age 10 ± 3) during an official national 2‐day event competition at rest (R) and 10 min after the arrival of the cross‐country test on the second day. Exercise caused a significant increase in red blood cell number, haemoglobin, packed cell volume, neutrophils, white blood cell and lymphocyte number; however, these values remained within the normal range. The CD4+ and CD8+ cells significantly increased, whereas the CD21+ lymphocytes decreased; a significant increase in serum SAA, lysozyme and protein carbonyl derivates was also observed. Two‐day event causes significant changes in APR markers such as lysozyme, protein carbonyl derivates (HNE, AGEs, PENT) and lymphocyte subpopulations. The data support the hypothesis that 2‐day event may alter significantly APR markers. Limitations of the study were the relatively small sample size and sampling time conditioned by the official regulations of the event. Therefore, further studies are needed to investigate the time required for recovery to basal values in order to define the possible effects on the immune function of the athlete horse.
The effects of linearity on sentence comprehension in oral and silent reading
Authors: Muto Hiroyuki
Published: January 2015

This study examined the effects of linearity of language (e.g., deSaussure, 1916/1972) on performance on a sentence comprehension task, manipulating (a) presentation method (simultaneous, phrase, or flow) and (b) reading method (oral or silent reading). The study also examined the predictive powers of the digit span test (DST) and the reading span test (RST) for task performance. Fifty‐four undergraduate and graduate students participated in the experiment. The results showed that theDSTscore predicted performance on both garden‐path (GP) and non‐garden‐path (NGP) sentences, whereas theRSTscore did so only forGPsentences. This suggests that the sentence comprehension task requires not only comprehension but also temporarily storing verbal information, and that theRSTscore reflects the degree of tolerance for deviation from linearity. The results also revealed that silent reading has an advantage over oral reading in simultaneous presentation and vice versa in flow presentation, whereas the difference between reading methods disappeared in phrase presentation. This suggests that oral and silent reading require different strategies to facilitate sentence comprehension.
Stimulated rejuvenation of dormant Aulacoseira granulata (Bacillariophyta) by Gloeocystis planctonica (Chlorophyta) in a eutrophic river
Authors: Poister David , Schaefer Alison , Baert Andrew , Tracey John , Richards Katelyn
Published: January 2015

The abundance of Aulacoseira granulata (Ehrenburg) Simonsen and Gloeocystis planctonica (West & G.S.West) Lemmermann was assessed during the summers of 2005 and 2010 in the eutrophic Fox River, Wisconsin, USA. In both years, a mid‐summer bloom of G. planctonica was followed by the rapid growth of A. granulata. Laboratory experiments in which A. granulata was grown in cell‐free filtrate of a G. planctonica culture revealed that the growth of A. granulata was stimulated in the G. planctonica‐treated medium relative to controls. This effect was detected when dormant A. granulata cells were used as the source culture for the experiment but not when actively growing cells were used. Dormant A. granulata also grew more rapidly in river water collected after the 2010 G. planctonica bloom relative to river water collected before the bloom. These results suggest that the summer bloom of A. granulata in the river was stimulated by G. planctonica. This relationship can be described as stimulated rejuvenation, an interaction where the transition of an algal resting stage into active growth is triggered by exposure to another species.
Serum Cardiac Troponin I Concentrations in Dogs with Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome
Authors: Hamacher L. , Dörfelt R. , Müller M. , Wess G.
Published: January 2015

Background

Myocardial injury can be detected by cardiac troponin I (cTnI) concentration, which appears to be a predictor of short‐term death in critically ill patients. It is unknown if the best prognostic indicator of short‐term survival is cTnI measurement at admission or at later time points.

Hypothesis/Objectives

Measuring cTnI with a high‐sensitivity (HS) test at different time points after admission may be a better short‐term prognostic indicator than a single cTnI measurement at admission in dogs with systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS).

Animals

Prospective, observational clinical study of 60 dogs with SIRS.

Methods

Cardiac troponin I concentration was measured in 133 serum samples, collected at days 1, 2, 3, and 5. Additionally, the acute patient physiologic and laboratory evaluation (APPLE) fast score was evaluated at admission. Prognostic capabilities of cTnI measurement and APPLE fast score for 28‐day mortality were assessed by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis.

Results

Forty‐one dogs with SIRS that survived 28 days had significantly lower serum cTnI concentrations at admission (median, 0.09 ng/mL; P = .004) and at the peak time point (median, 0.23 ng/mL; P = .01) compared to 19 nonsurvivors (median at admission, 0.63 ng/mL; median at peak, 1.22 ng/mL). Area under the curve to predict survival, using cTnI was similar at admission (0.732) and at peak (0.708), and was 0.754 for the APPLE fast score.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Increased cTnI concentration in dogs with SIRS is associated with poor outcome. Daily follow‐up measurement of cTnI concentration provides no additional prognostic information for short‐term mortality.
Brainstem Auditory Evoked Responses in Foals: Reference Values, Effect of Age, Rate of Acoustic Stimulation, and Neurologic Deficits
Authors: Lecoq L. , Gains M. , Blond L. , Parent J.
Published: January 2015

Background

Age and rate of acoustic stimulation affect peak latencies in brainstem auditory evoked responses (BAER) in humans. Those effects are unknown in foals.

Hypothesis/Objectives

Our goals were to (1) establish reference values for BAER in foals by using 3 different stimulation protocols, (2) evaluate the effects of age and stimulation frequencies on BAER tracing in foals up to 6 months old, and (3) compare the data with BAER obtained from foals with central nervous system (CNS) disorders.

Animals

Thirty‐nine neurologically normal foals and 16 foals with neurologic diseases.

Methods

Prospective observational clinical study. BAER recorded by using 3 protocols of stimulation (11.33 repetitions per second [Hz]/70 decibel normal hearing level [dBNHL]; 11.33 Hz/90 dBNHL; 90 Hz/70 dBNHL).

Results

No effect of age was observed in normal foals (P > .005). No significant difference was observed for latencies and interpeak latencies (IPL) when comparing foals with neurologic diseases and normal foals (P > .05), but 78.6% of foals with neurologic diseases had an asymmetry in their tracing, reflecting a difference in conduction time between the left and right side of the brainstem. Increasing the stimulation rate did not improve detection of CNS disorders.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

We propose BAER reference values for foals up to 6 months of age by using 3 protocols. Most foals with neurologic deficits had abnormal BAER tracing.
P‐Glycoprotein Mediated Drug Interactions in Animals and Humans with Cancer
Authors: Mealey K.L. , Fidel J.
Published: January 2015

Drug–drug interactions can cause unanticipated patient morbidity and mortality. The consequences of drug–drug interactions can be especially severe when anticancer drugs are involved because of their narrow therapeutic index. Veterinary clinicians have traditionally been taught that drug–drug interactions result from alterations in drug metabolism, renal excretion or protein binding. More recently, drug–drug interactions resulting from inhibition of P‐glycoprotein‐mediated drug transport have been identified in both human and veterinary patients. Many drugs commonly used in veterinary patients are capable of inhibiting P‐glycoprotein function and thereby causing an interaction that results in severe chemotherapeutic drug toxicity. The intent of this review is to describe the mechanism and clinical implications of drug–drug interactions involving P‐glycoprotein and anticancer drugs. Equipped with this information, veterinarians can prevent serious drug–drug interactions by selecting alternate drugs or adjusting the dose of interacting drugs.
Reliability of the i‐STATfor the determination of blood electrolyte (K+, Na+, andCI−) concentrations in cattle
Authors: Yildirim E. , Karapinar T. , Hayirli A.
Published: January 2015

Background

Rapid determination of blood electrolyte concentrations can help determine electrolyte status and delivery of effective volume of electrolyte solutions in field conditions.

Objective

To evaluate reliability of the i‐STAT, a point‐of‐care (POC) device, in measuring blood K+, Na+, andCI−concentrations in cattle.

Animals

Ninety‐eight cattle with various diseases.

Methods

In this prospective study, blood samples collected from the jugular vein were processed for determination of K+, Na+, andCI−concentrations in blood and plasma using the i‐STATand auto‐analyzer (Cobas C501), respectively. Blood and plasma electrolyte data were subjected to studentt‐test for comparison, the concordance analysis for agreement, accuracy, and precision, the Passing‐Bablok regression and the Bland‐Altman plot for reliability, and receiver operating characteristics curves for sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Sp).

Results

Plasma concentrations of K+(4.39 versus 4.2 mmol/L;P < .0001) andCI−(100.30 versus 99.4 mmol/L;P < .04) were greater than their concentrations in blood. Plasma and blood Na+concentrations were similar (136.95 versus 136.8 mmol/L). The i‐STATresults were highly correlated with the Cobas C501 results (r = 0.970, 0.922, and 0.866 for K+, Na+, andCI−, respectively). Regression equations fitting blood (Y) and plasma (X) concentration did not deviate from the identity line for K+(Y = −0.10 + 0.98 × X), Na+(Y = X), andCI−(Y = 3.04 + 0.96 × X). The mean bias (blood concentration ‐ plasma concentration) was −0.20 for K+(P = .03), −0.16 for Na+(P = .12), and −0.87 forCI−(P = .93). The i‐STAThad 76–100% Se and 87.7–100% Sp for assessing electrolyte statuses.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

The i‐STATyielded results that were in agreement with the auto‐analyzer, with negligible biases in measurement of plasma K+, Na+, andCI−concentrations. The i‐STATis a reliablePOCdevice and can be used in field condition to assess electrolyte status in cattle.
Respiratory Pathogens in Québec Dairy Calves and Their Relationship with Clinical Status, Lung Consolidation, and Average Daily Gain
Authors: Francoz D. , Buczinski S. , Bélanger A.M. , Forté G. , Labrecque O. , Tremblay D. , Wellemans V. , Dubuc J.
Published: January 2015

Background

Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is 1 of the 2 most important causes of morbidity and mortality in dairy calves. Surprisingly, field data are scant concerning the prevalence of respiratory pathogens involved inBRDin preweaned dairy calves, especially in small herds.

Objectives

To identify the main respiratory pathogens isolated from calves in Québec dairy herds with a high incidence ofBRD, and to determine if there is an association between the presence of these pathogens and clinical signs of pneumonia, lung consolidation, or average daily gain.

Animals

Cross‐sectional study using a convenience sample of 95 preweaned dairy calves from 11 dairy herds.

Methods

At enrollment, calves were weighed, clinically examined, swabbed (nasal and nasopharyngeal), and lung ultrasonography was performed. One month later, all calves were reweighed.

Results

Twenty‐two calves had clinicalBRDand 49 had ultrasonographic evidence of lung consolidation.Pasteurella multocida,Mannheimia haemolytica, andHistophilus somniwere isolated in 54, 17, and 12 calves, respectively.Mycoplasma boviswas identified byPCRtesting or culture in 19 calves, and 78 calves were found to be positive forMycoplasmaspp. Bovine coronavirus was detected in 38 calves and bovine respiratory syncytial virus in 1. Only the presence ofM. boviswas associated with higher odds of clinical signs, lung consolidation, and lower average daily gain.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Results suggested that nasopharyngeal carriage ofM. boviswas detrimental to health and growth of dairy calves in small herds with a high incidence ofBRD.
A Systematic Review of Function‐Based Interventions for Students with Learning Disabilities
Authors: McKenna John William , Flower Andrea , Kyung Kim Min , Ciullo Stephen , Haring Christa
Published: January 2015

Students with learning disabilities (LD) experience pervasive academic deficits requiring extensive academic intervention; however, they may also engage in problem behaviors that adversely affect teaching and learning, thus lessening the potential impact of specialized instruction and supports. The learning deficits of students with LD are prevalent in the extant research, but behavioral needs appear to receive less attention. The authors report the results of a systematic review investigating the evidence‐base for function‐based interventions for students with LD using the What Works Clearinghouse (WWC) criteria for evaluating single‐case studies. Fourteen studies with 17 participants met inclusion criteria, with the majority occurring in elementary settings. Although interventions tended to be effective, few included maintenance and generalization measures. Because of the small number of studies (n = 4) that met WWC design and effectiveness standards, the authors conclude that function‐based interventions, although promising, cannot currently be considered an evidence‐based practice for students with LD. Implications for practice, areas for future research, and study limitations are reported.
Non‐invasive evaluation of liver fibrosis: More well‐validated tests available for patient management
Authors: Guéchot Jérôme
Published: January 2015

See Article on Page 1673
A core of three amino acids at the carboxyl‐terminal region of glutamine synthetase defines its regulation in cyanobacteria
Authors: Saelices Lorena , Robles‐Rengel Rocío , Florencio Francisco J. , Muro‐Pastor M. Isabel
Published: January 2015

Glutamine synthetase (GS) type I is a key enzyme in nitrogen metabolism, and its activity is finely controlled by cellular carbon/nitrogen balance. In cyanobacteria, a reversible process that involves protein–protein interaction with two proteins, the inactivating factors IF7 and IF17, regulates GS. Previously, we showed that three arginine residues of IFs are critical for binding and inhibition of GS. In this work, taking advantage of the specificity of GS/IFs interaction in the model cyanobacteria Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 and Anabaena sp. PCC 7120, we have constructed a different chimeric GSs from these two cyanobacteria. Analysis of these proteins, together with a site‐directed mutagenesis approach, indicates that a core of three residues (E419, N456 and R459) is essential for the inactivation process. The three residues belong to the last 56 amino acids of the C‐terminus of Synechocystis GS. A protein–protein docking modeling of Synechocystis GS in complex with IF7 supports the role of the identified core for GS/IF interaction.
Delirium assessment in intensive care units: practices and perceptions of Turkish nurses
Authors: Özsaban Aysel , Acaroglu Rengin
Published: January 2015

Background

As delirium in intensive care unit (ICU) patients is a serious problem that can result in increased mortality and morbidity, routine delirium assessment of all ICU patients is recommended. The severity, duration and outcome of the syndrome are directly related to nurses' continuous assessment of patients for signs and symptoms of delirium. However, studies indicate that very few nurses monitor for delirium as a part of their daily practices.

Aim

The aim of this study was to identify current practices and perceptions of intensive care nurses regarding delirium assessment and to examine the factors that affect these practices and perceptions.

Design

A descriptive, correlational study design was used.

Methods

Data were collected from five Turkish public hospitals using a structured survey questionnaire. The study sample comprised 301 nurses who agreed to participate. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics.

Results

More than half of the nurses performed delirium assessments. However, the proportion of nurses who use delirium assessment tools was quite low. Almost all of the nurses perceived delirium as a problem and serious problem for ICU patients. The patient group least monitored for delirium was that of unconscious patients. Statistically significant differences were found in the proportion of nurses who assessed delirium symptoms and whose care delivery system was patient‐centred and perceived delirium as a serious problem.

Conclusion

While a majority of ICU nurses perceived delirium as a problem and serious problem, the proportion of those who perform routine delirium assessments was less. It was found that delirium assessment practices of nurses were affected from their perceptions of delirium and the implementation of patient‐centred care delivery.

Relevance to clinical practice

It is essential to develop strategies to encourage ICU nurses to perform delirium assessments through the use of delirium assessment tools.
Inhibitory effects of extracellular self‐DNA: a general biological process?
Authors: Mazzoleni Stefano , Cartenì Fabrizio , Bonanomi Giuliano , Senatore Mauro , Termolino Pasquale , Giannino Francesco , Incerti Guido , Rietkerk Max , Lanzotti Virginia , Chiusano Maria Luisa
Published: January 2015

Self‐inhibition of growth has been observed in different organisms, but an underlying common mechanism has not been proposed so far. Recently, extracellular DNA (exDNA) has been reported as species‐specific growth inhibitor in plants and proposed as an explanation of negative plant–soil feedback. In this work the effect of exDNA was tested on different species to assess the occurrence of such inhibition in organisms other than plants.

Bioassays were performed on six species of different taxonomic groups, including bacteria, fungi, algae, plants, protozoa and insects. Treatments consisted in the addition to the growth substrate of conspecific and heterologous DNA at different concentration levels.

Results showed that treatments with conspecific DNA always produced a concentration dependent growth inhibition, which instead was not observed in the case of heterologous DNA.

Reported evidence suggests the generality of the observed phenomenon which opens new perspectives in the context of self‐inhibition processes. Moreover, the existence of a general species‐specific biological effect of exDNA raises interesting questions on its possible involvement in self‐recognition mechanisms. Further investigation at molecular level will be required to unravel the specific functioning of the observed inhibitory effects.
Habermasian knowledge interests: epistemological implications for health sciences
Authors: Granero‐Molina José , Fernández‐Sola Cayetano , Muñoz Terrón José María , Aranda Torres Cayetano
Published: January 2015

The Habermasian concept of ‘interest’ has had a profound effect on the characterization of scientific disciplines. Going beyond issues unrelated to the theory itself, intra‐theoretical interest characterizes the specific ways of approaching any science‐related discipline, defining research topics and methodologies. This approach was developed by Jürgen Habermas in relation to empirical–analytical sciences, historical–hermeneutics sciences, and critical sciences; however, he did not make any specific references to health sciences. This article aims to contribute to shaping a general epistemological framework for health sciences, as well as its specific implications for the medical and nursing areas, via an analysis of the basic knowledge interests developed by Habermas.
Survey of UV Emissions from Sunbeds in the UK
Authors: Khazova Marina , O'Hagan John B. , Robertson Stewart
Published: January 2015

Increased use of indoor tanning for cosmetic purposes has led to concerns for its impact on the risk of cutaneous cancers. The effects on UVR on skin depend on radiant dose, i.e. combination of irradiance and exposure duration. While a number of studies surveyed accessible emission from sunbeds, majority did not include the information on doses received during tanning sessions. Spectral irradiance of 195 sunbeds in five areas of the United Kingdom was measured in order to assess the radiant doses for comparison with the SED. Erythema weighted irradiance of more than 85% of all tested solaria exceeded 0.3 W m−2, consistent with the findings of other studies. However, evaluation of radiant doses showed no evidence of increasing exposure per session in the United Kingdom in the last decade despite the increasing sunbed emission levels. Use of sunbeds for cosmetic purposes should be discouraged, with effective enforcement of the ban on under‐18 use, strict control on tanning duration and promotion of information on health risks of sunbed use. Such an integrated approach on safe equipment, safe use, and information should reduce the risk of detrimental impact of sunbed use on public health.
Strategic Management of Operations in the Emergency Department
Authors: Venkat Arvind , Kekre Sunder , Hegde Gajanan G. , Shang Jennifer , Campbell Thomas P.
Published: January 2015

This study is based on the analysis of field data on the revenues and patient flows that we collected on all adult emergency department (ED) visits to a level‐1 trauma, tertiary referral center. Our objective was to provide researchers in operations a rich overview of the processes, resources, and metrics of financial and operations performance in the ED. We analyze how patients, physicians, hospitals/physician employer groups, and payers are party to the value created and financial workflow of the ED. A waterfall model for professional services revenue is developed that highlights the impacts of changes in processes, resources, scale, complexity, and mix of patients treated in the ED. We also discuss future implications of new compensation models and potential scenarios that will focus upon controlling costs while maximizing population health and patient satisfaction. These models will necessitate re‐engineering of operations in the ED from a strategic perspective. Four major thrusts for selecting the capacity portfolio in the ED operations to align the interests of all the stakeholders are recommended. New avenues for research are also identified.
Activation of photoprotective winter photoinhibition in plants from different environments: a literature compilation and meta‐analysis
Authors: Míguez Fátima , Fernández‐Marín Beatriz , Becerril José María , García‐Plazaola José Ignacio
Published: January 2015

Overwintering plants face a pronounced imbalance between light capture and use of that excitation for photosynthesis. In response, plants upregulate thermal dissipation, with concomitant reductions in photochemical efficiency, in a process characterized by a slow recovery upon warming. These sustained depressions of photochemical efficiency are termed winter photoinhibition (WPI) here. WPI has been extensively studied in conifers and in few overwintering crops, but other plant species have received less attention. Furthermore, the literature shows some controversies about the association of WPI with xanthophylls and the environmental conditions that control xanthophylls conversion. To overview current knowledge and identify knowledge gaps on WPI mechanisms, we performed a comprehensive meta‐analysis of literature published over the period 1991–2011. All publications containing measurements of Fv/Fm for a cold period and a corresponding warm control were included in our final database of 190 studies on 162 species. WPI was estimated as the relative decrease in Fv/Fm. High WPI was always accompanied by a high (A + Z)/(V + A + Z). Activation of lasting WPI was directly related to air temperature, with a threshold of around 0°C. Tropical plants presented earlier (at a temperature of >0°C) and higher WPI than non‐tropical plants. We conclude that (1) activation of a xanthophyll‐dependent mechanism of WPI is a requisite for maintaining photosynthetic structures at sub‐zero temperatures, while (2) absence (or low levels) of WPI is not necessarily related to low (A + Z)/(V + A + Z); and (3) the air temperature that triggers lasting WPI, and the maximum level of WPI, do not depend on plant growth habit or bioclimatic origin of species.
Overgrowth and killing of corals by the brown alga Lobophora hederacea (Dictyotales, Phaeophyceae) on healthy reefs in New Caledonia: A new case of the epizoism syndrome
Authors: Vieira Christophe , Payri Claude , De Clerck Olivier
Published: January 2015

Coral reef degradation is often associated with regime shifts from coral‐ to macroalgal‐dominated reefs. These shifts demonstrate that under certain conditions (e.g. coral mortality, decrease in herbivory, increased nutrients supply) some macroalgae may overgrow corals. The outcome of the competition is dependent on algal aggressiveness and the coral susceptibility. In undisturbed reefs, herbivore grazing is regulating macroalgal cover, thus preventing the latter from overgrowing corals. However, some macroalgae have evolved strategies not only to outcompete corals but also to escape herbivory to some extent, allowing overgrowth of some coral species in undisturbed reefs. Epizoism represents one of those successful strategies, and has been previously documented with red algae, cyanobacteria and Lobophora variegata (Dictyotales, Phaeophyceae). Here we report a new case of epizoism leading to coral mortality, involving a recently described species of Lobophora, L. hederacea, overgrowing the coral Seriatopora caliendrum (Pocilloporidae) in undisturbed reefs in New Caledonia.
Analysing the stakes of stakeholders in research and development project management: a systems approach
Authors: Elias Arun Abraham
Published: January 2015

Research and development (R&D) project management involves managing multiple stakeholders with conflicting stakes. This article proposes a systems approach to capture such conflicting stakes of multiple stakeholders in controversial R&D projects. The approach is illustrated using a New Zealand case study related to the use of 1080 chemical for pest management. Initially, the problem situation was structured systemically by analysing the behaviour of the main variables and by conducting a stakeholder analysis. Further, a participative systems model related to the problem situation was developed using a group model‐building process. The analysis of the model revealed a set of feedback loops operating in the system identified as constituting and responsible for the complexity of the problem situation relating to 1080 use. In conclusion, the paper highlights some strategies suggested by the stakeholders to manage conflict.
Effects of competition with Bromus tectorum on early establishment of Poa secunda accessions: can seed source impact restoration success?
Authors: Herget Mollie E. , Hufford Kristina M. , Mummey Daniel L. , Mealor Brian A. , Shreading Lauren N.
Published: January 2015

When landscapes are heavily impacted by biological invasion, local populations of native plant species may no longer be adapted to altered environmental conditions. In these cases, it is useful to investigate alternative sources of germplasm, such as cultivated varieties, for planting at restoration sites. This study compared cultivated and wild (local) varieties of the native perennial bunchgrass, Poa secunda J. Presl, grown with and without the exotic, invasive Bromus tectorum L. in a greenhouse setting. While P. secunda cultivars emerged and grew more rapidly than wild seed sources, this advantage declined in the presence of B. tectorum and cultivated germplasm did not outperform wild accessions in the presence of an invasive species. Given the novel genetic background of cultivars and their potential to alter patterns of dominance in native plant communities, we recommend the use of local or regional wild seed sources when possible to conserve regional patterns of genetic diversity and adaptation. Use of multiple seed sources may increase the potential for capturing vigorous genotypes in the restoration seed mix. In cases where sites are heavily impacted by exotic, invasive species, other control measures will be necessary to improve establishment of native species in grassland restoration programs.
Internal architecture of a till sheet, Tiskilwa Formation, north‐central Illinois, USA: Application of architectural element analysis
Authors: Slomka Jessica M. , Eyles Carolyn H. , Mulligan Riley P. M. , Mckay Edward Donald , Berg Richard C.
Published: January 2015

Thick till sheets deposited during the Quaternary form significant aquitards in many areas of North America. However, the detailed sedimentary heterogeneity and architecture and depositional history of till units are not well understood. This study utilizes architectural element analysis to delineate the internal sedimentary architecture of the Tiskilwa Formation exposed at two outcrop sections in north‐central Illinois, USA. Architectural element analysis facilitates systematic delineation of sedimentary architecture based on the nature of facies contacts and change in facies associations, delineation of unit geometries and understanding of depositional processes at different scales of resolution; making architectural element analysis suitable for the sedimentological analysis and palaeoenvironmental reconstruction of subglacial deposits. Eleven facies types are identified in this study, including sand, gravel and diamict facies that record a suite of subglacial depositional processes. Detailed analysis of facies contacts (bounding surface hierarchy) and change in facies associations allows the delineation of five architectural elements, including coarse‐grained lens, coarse‐grained sheet, mixed zone, diamict lens and diamict sheet elements. The spatial arrangement and genetic interpretation of elements, and their spatial relationship with fifth‐order bounding surfaces, allows the delineation of five larger scale architectural units (‘element associations’), which can be mapped in the local study area and record at least three stacked successions of meltwater accumulation and till deposition. The results of this study can be utilized for architectural analysis of till sheets and provide insight to groundwater flow pathways through till in the study area and elsewhere.
Characterization of the Immunogenicity and Allergenicity of Two Cow's Milk Hydrolysates – A Study in Brown Norway Rats
Authors: Bøgh K. L. , Barkholt V. , Madsen C. B.
Published: January 2015

Hypoallergenic infant formulas based on hydrolysed milk proteins are used in the diet for cow's milk allergic infants. For a preclinical evaluation of the immunogenicity and allergenicity of new protein ingredients for such hypoallergenic infant formulas as well as for the investigation of which characteristics of hydrolysates that contribute to allergenicity, in vivo models are valuable tools. In this study, we examine the immunogenicity and allergenicity of two hydrolysates in a Brown Norway (BN) rat model, using i.p. dosing, which allows for the use of small quantities. Intact BLG, hydrolysed BLG and a hydrolysed whey product suitable for use in extensively hydrolysed formulas were thoroughly characterized for protein chemical features and administered to BN rats by i.p. immunization with or without adjuvant. Sera were analysed for specific IgG and IgE for evaluation of sensitizing capacity, immunogenicity and antibody‐binding capacity. For evaluation of eliciting capacity a skin test was performed. The study showed that the hydrolysates had no residual allergenicity, lacking the capacity to sensitize and elicit reactions in the BN rats. Dosing with or without adjuvant induced a large difference in immunogenicity. Only antibodies from rats sensitized to intact BLG with adjuvant were able to bind the hydrolysates, and the whey‐based hydrolysate only showed immunogenicity when dosed with adjuvant. This study showed that hydrolysates can be evaluated by an i.p. animal model, but that the choice of in vitro tests used for evaluation of antibody responses may greatly influence the result as well as may the use of adjuvant.
Nitrous oxide emissions in a winter wheat – summer maize double cropping system under different tillage and fertilizer management
Authors: Huang M. , Liang T. , Wang L.
Published: January 2015

An accurate estimation of nitrous oxide (N2O) emission from 110 million ha of upland in China is essential for the adoption of effective mitigation strategies. In this study, the effects of different tillage practices combined with nitrogen (N) fertilizer applications on N2O emission in soils were considered for a winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) – summer maize (Zea mays L.) double cropping system. Treatments included conventional tillage plus urea in split application (CTF1), conventional tillage with urea in a single application (CTF2), no‐tillage with straw retained plus reduced urea in a split application (NTSF1) and no‐tillage with manure plus reduced urea in a split application (NTMF1). The amounts of N input in each treatment were 285 and 225 kg N/ha for wheat and maize, respectively. Both NTSF1 and NTMF1 were found to reduce chemical N fertilizer rates by 33.3% (wheat) and 20% (maize), respectively, compared to CTF1 and CTF2. N2O emissions varied between 3.2 (NTSF1) and 9.9 (CTF2) kg N2O‐N/ha during the wheat season and between 7.6 (NTFS1) and 14.0 (NTMF1) kg N2O‐N/ha during the maize season. The yield‐based emission factors ranged from 21.9 (NTSF1) to 60.9 (CTF2) g N2O‐N/kg N for wheat and 92.5 (NTSF1) to 157.4 (NTMF1) g N2O‐N/kg N for maize. No significant effect of the treatments on crop yield was found. In addition to reducing production costs involved in land preparation, NTSF1 was shown to decrease chemical fertilizer input and mitigate N2O emissions while sustaining crop yield.
A tale of two haplotype groups: evaluating the New WorldJunoniaring species hypothesis using the distribution of divergentCOIhaplotypes
Authors: GEMMELL AMBER P. , MARCUS JEFFREY M.
Published: January 2015

The New WorldJunoniabutterflies are a possible ring species with a circum‐Caribbean distribution. Previous reports suggest a steady transition between North and South American forms in Mesoamerica, but in Cuba the forms were thought to co‐exist without interbreeding representing the overlapping ends of the ring. Three criteria establish the existence of a ring species: a ring‐shaped geographic distribution, gene flow among intervening forms and genetic isolation in the region of range overlap. We evaluated mitochondrialcytochrome oxidase Ihaplotypes inJunoniafrom nine species in the Western Hemisphere to test theJunoniaring species hypothesis.Junoniaspecies are generally not monophyletic with respect toCOIhaplotypes, which are shared across species. However, two majorCOIhaplotype groups exist. Group A predominates in South America, and Group B predominates in North and Central America. Therefore,COIhaplotypes can be used to assess the degree of genetic influence a population receives from each continent.Junoniashows a ring‐shaped distribution around the Caribbean, and evidence is consistent with gene flow among forms ofJunonia,including those from Mesoamerica. However, we detected no discontinuity in gene flow in Cuba or elsewhere in the Caribbean consistent with genetic isolation in the region of overlap. Although sampling is still very limited in the critical region, the only remaining possibility for a circum‐Caribbean discontinuity in gene flow is at the Isthmus of Panama, where there may be a transition from 98% Group B haplotypes in Costa Rica to 85–100% Group A haplotypes in South America.
Identification of six novel human leukocyte antigen alleles, HLA‐A*24:248, B*46:01:17, B*46:58, C*01:02:22, C*01:02:25 and C*01:91, in Chinese individuals
Authors: Pan J. , Chen LN. , Zhuo XF. , Huang LP. , Zheng ZZ.
Published: January 2015

Six novel human leukocyte antigen (HLA) alleles were identified using a sequence‐based typing of HLA in Chinese individuals.
KIR3DL1*0250102: a novel three‐domain KIR subtype identified in West Africa
Authors: Yindom L.‐M. , de Silva T. I. , Rowland‐Jones S. L.
Published: January 2015

KIR3DL1*0250102 differs from the common West African KIR3DL1*0150101 by 11 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs).
A new HLA‐B allele, B*18:105, identified in a Caucasian Spanish individual
Authors: Balas A. , García‐Sánchez F. , Vicario J. L.
Published: January 2015

HLA‐B*18:105 shows two nucleotide differences regarding B*18:22 (97 AGC>AGG, 99 TAC>TAT) and B*18:52 (94 ACC>ATC, 95 CTC>ATC).
HLAclassIIdiversity inHIV‐1 uninfected individuals from the placebo arm of theRV144Thai vaccine efficacy trial
Authors: Baldwin K. M. , Ehrenberg P. K. , Geretz A. , Prentice H. A. , Nitayaphan S. , Rerks‐Ngarm S. , Kaewkungwal J. , Pitisuttithum P. , O'Connell R. J. , Kim J. H. , Thomas R.
Published: January 2015

TheRV144 HIVvaccine trial in Thailand elicited antibody responses to the envelope ofHIV‐1, which correlated significantly with the risk ofHIV‐1 acquisition. Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) classIImolecules are essential in antigen presentation toCD4T cells for activation of B cells to produce antibodies. We genotyped the classicalHLA‐DRB1,DQB1, andDPB1genes in 450 individuals from the placebo arm of theRV144study to determine the background allele and haplotype frequencies of these genes in this cohort. High‐resolution 4 and 6‐digit classII HLAtyping data was generated using sequencing‐based methods. The observed diversity for theHLAloci was 33HLA‐DRB1, 15HLA‐DQB1, and 26HLA‐DPB1alleles. Common alleles with frequencies greater than 10% wereDRB1*07:01,DRB1*09:01,DRB1*12:02,DRB1*15:02,DQB1*02:01/02,DQB1*03:01,DQB1*03:03,DQB1*05:01,DQB1*05:02,DPB1*04:01:01,DPB1*05:01:01, andDPB1*13:01:01. We identified 28 rare alleles with frequencies of less than 1% in the Thai individuals. Ambiguity forHLA‐DPB1*28:01in exon 2 was resolved toDPB1*296:01by next‐generation sequencing of all exons. Multi‐locus haplotypes includingHLAclass I andIIloci were reported in this study. This is the first comprehensive report of allele and haplotype frequencies of all threeHLAclassIIgenes from a Thai population. A high‐resolution genotyping method such as next‐generation sequencing avoids missing rare alleles and resolves ambiguous calls. TheHLAclassIIgenotyping data generated in this study will be beneficial not only for future disease association/vaccine efficacy studies related to theRV144study, but also for similar studies in other diseases in the Thai population, as well as population genetics and transplantation studies.
Sedimentary markers in the Provençal Basin (western Mediterranean): a window into deep geodynamic processes
Authors: Leroux Estelle , Aslanian Daniel , Rabineau Marina , Moulin Maryline , Granjeon Didier , Gorini Christian , Droz Laurence
Published: January 2015

Deep Earth dynamics impact so strongly on surface geological processes that we can use sediment palaeo‐markers as a window into the deeper Earth. Derived from climatic and tectonic erosive actions on the continents, and related to eustasy, subsidence and isostasy, the sediment in a deep basin is the main recorder of these processes. Nevertheless, defining and quantifying the relative roles of parameters that interact to give the final sedimentary architecture is not a simple task. Using a 3D‐grid of seismic and wide‐angle data, boreholes and numerical stratigraphic modelling, we propose here a quantification of post‐rift vertical movements in the Provençal Basin (West Mediterranean) involving three domains of subsidence: seaward tilting on the platform and the slope and purely vertical subsidence in the deep basin. These domains fit the deeper crustal domains highlighted by previous geophysical data. Post‐break‐up sedimentary markers may therefore be used to identify the initial hinge lines of the rifting phase and the subsidence laws.
ENO2 activity is required for the development and reproductive success of plants, and is feedback‐repressed by AtMBP‐1
Authors: Eremina Marina , Rozhon Wilfried , Yang Saiqi , Poppenberger Brigitte
Published: January 2015

Enolases are key glycolytic enzymes that are highly conserved in prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms, and are among the most abundant cytosolic proteins. In this study we provide evidence that activity of the enolase ENO2 is essential for the growth and development of plants. We show that Arabidopsis plants with compromised ENO2 function, which were generated by mutating the LOS2/ENO2 locus, have severe cellular defects, including reduced cell size and defective cell differentiation with restricted lignification. At the tissue and organ level LOS2/ENO2‐deficient plants are characterized by the reduced growth of shoots and roots, altered vascular development and defective secondary growth of stems, impaired floral organogenesis and defective male gametophyte function, resulting in embryo lethality as well as delayed senescence. These phenotypes correlate with reduced lignin and increased salicylic acid contents as well as altered fatty acid and soluble sugar composition. In addition to an enolase the LOS2/ENO2 locus encodes the transcription factor AtMBP‐1, and here we reveal that this bifunctionality serves to maintain the homeostasis of ENO2 activity. In summary, we show that in plants enolase function is required for the formation of chorismate‐dependent secondary metabolites, and that this activity is feedback‐inhibited by AtMBP‐1 to enable the normal development and reproductive success of plants.
Transient Elastohydrodynamic Lubrication Film Thickness During Normal Approach Considering Shear-Thinning and Linear Piezoviscous Oils
Authors: Kumar Punit , Kalita Tapash Jyoti
Published: January 2015

Transient film thickness behavior is investigated using full elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) line contact simulations during film collapse due to sudden halt and impact loading. Due attention is given to realistic shear-thinning behavior and comparisons are made with a largely ignored class of EHL lubricants that exhibit linear pressure–viscosity dependence at low pressures. The EHL film collapse is found to be governed by the piezoviscous response and the linear P–V oils exhibit rapidly collapsing EHL entrapment. Under impact loading, the transient film thickness deviates markedly from the corresponding steady-state behavior and this departure is a function of lubricant rheology.
A Transient Thermoelastohydrodynamic Lubrication Model for the Slipper/Swashplate in Axial Piston Machines
Authors: Schenk Andrew , Ivantysynova Monika
Published: January 2015

A transient lubrication model has been developed for the sliding interface between the slipper and swashplate in axial piston hydraulic pumps and motors. The model considers a nonisothermal fluid model, microdynamic motion of the slipper, as well as pressure and thermal deformations of the bounding solid bodies through a partitioned solution scheme. The separate contributions of elastohydrostatic and elastohydrodynamic lubrication are studied. Although hydrostatic deformation dominates, hydrodynamic effects are crucial for actual operation. Finally, the impact of transient deformation on lubricant pressure is explored, with its consideration necessary for accurate analysis.
Dynamic Analysis of a Motorized Spindle With Externally Pressurized Air Bearings
Authors: Xu Chundong , Jiang Shuyun
Published: January 2015

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the dynamic characteristics of a motorized spindle with externally pressurized air bearings. The externally pressurized air bearings consist of a journal bearing and a double pad thrust bearing with orifice restrictors. The equations of motion for the rotor-bearing system are established considering five degrees-of-freedom (DOF). The perturbation method and the finite difference method are introduced to calculate the static and dynamic characteristics of the air bearings; and the effects of the rotating speed and tilt angle of the rotor on the dynamic characteristics of the air bearings are analyzed. With the dynamic coefficients of the air bearings and the 5DOF rotor-dynamic model obtained, the stability, the unbalance response, and the forced response of the rotor-bearing system are investigated. Finally, the static and dynamic characteristics of the spindle are verified by an experimental study.