bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Management applications of discontinuity theory
Authors: Angeler David G. , Allen Craig R. , Barichievy Chris , Eason Tarsha , Garmestani Ahjond S. , Graham Nicholas A. J. , Granholm Dean , Gunderson Lance H. , Knutson Melinda , Nash Kirsty L. , Nelson R. John , Nyström Magnus , Spanbauer Trisha L. , Stow Craig A. , Sundstrom Shana M.
Published: July 2015

Human impacts on the environment are multifaceted and can occur across distinct spatiotemporal scales. Ecological responses to environmental change are therefore difficult to predict, and entail large degrees of uncertainty. Such uncertainty requires robust tools for management to sustain ecosystem goods and services and maintain resilient ecosystems.

We propose an approach based on discontinuity theory that accounts for patterns and processes at distinct spatial and temporal scales, an inherent property of ecological systems. Discontinuity theory has not been applied in natural resource management and could therefore improve ecosystem management because it explicitly accounts for ecological complexity.

Synthesis and applications. We highlight the application of discontinuity approaches for meeting management goals. Specifically, discontinuity approaches have significant potential to measure and thus understand the resilience of ecosystems, to objectively identify critical scales of space and time in ecological systems at which human impact might be most severe, to provide warning indicators of regime change, to help predict and understand biological invasions and extinctions and to focus monitoring efforts. Discontinuity theory can complement current approaches, providing a broader paradigm for ecological management and conservation.
Phylogenetic measures of plant communities show long‐term change and impacts of fire management in tallgrass prairie remnants
Authors: Larkin Daniel J. , Hipp Andrew L. , Kattge Jens , Prescott William , Tonietto Rebecca K. , Jacobi Sarah K. , Bowles Marlin L.
Published: July 2015

Phylogenies are increasingly incorporated into ecological studies on the basis that evolutionary relatedness broadly correlates with trait similarity. However, phylogenetic approaches have rarely been applied to monitoring long‐term community change or guiding management.

We analysed a 25‐year resampling data set (1976–2001) of 41 tallgrass prairie remnants (Illinois,USA) to test for phylogenetic signals of plant community structure, change, environmental associations, fire management and functional traits. A community phylogeny was constructed using GenBank sequences, and trait data were acquired from theTRYconsortium. Phylogenetic measures of alpha and beta diversity were compared with taxonomic and functional measures.

From 1976 to 2001, communities became more phylogenetically clustered relative to null model expectations, that is increasingly restricted to subsets of species more closely related than expected by chance. Phylogeny was a sensitive indicator of environmental gradients and fire management. There were strong relationships between phylogeny and traits: key traits were phylogenetically non‐random and phylogenetic diversity was a necessary complement to species richness for explaining variation in trait diversity.

Phylogeny revealed a shift in community structure over time, with sites having been phylogenetically random in 1976 but becoming differentiated from each other by 2001. In contrast, measures of taxonomic and functional diversity showed differentiation at both time points. Phylogenetic patterns likely reflected changes in species’ abundances mediated by the influence of environmental conditions and fire frequency.

Synthesis and applications. Phylogenetic analyses can elucidate factors central to sound monitoring and management of plant communities. In this system, phylogeny was not a proxy for other indicators, but provided information complementing taxonomic‐based and trait‐based approaches for understanding vegetation structure, change and response to fire management. Phylogenetic approaches to ecological analysis are increasingly accessible, but fuller understanding of phylogeny–trait relationships and further development of user‐friendly analytical tools are needed for phylogenetics to widely inform restoration and management. In some systems, targeting phylogenetic diversity may be an effective means for restoring functionally diverse plant communities.
The phylogenetics of succession can guide restoration: an example from abandoned mine sites in the subarctic
Authors: Shooner Stephanie , Chisholm Chelsea , Davies T. Jonathan
Published: July 2015

Phylogenetic tools have increasingly been used in community ecology to describe the evolutionary relationships among co‐occurring species. In studies of succession, such tools may allow us to identify the evolutionary lineages most suited for particular stages of succession and habitat rehabilitation. However, to date, these two applications have been largely separate. Here, we suggest that information on phylogenetic community structure might help to inform community restoration strategies following major disturbance.

Our study examined phylogenetic patterns of succession based on a chronosequence of three abandoned subarctic mine spoil heaps (waste piles) dating from the early 1970s, mid‐1970s and early 1980s. The vegetation at each mine site was compared to the surrounding vegetation, and community structure on mines was explored assuming species pools at nested spatial scales.

We found that the adjacent vegetation was more phylogenetically clustered than the vegetation on the mines, with mines demonstrating weaker phylogenetic community structure. Using simulation models, we showed that phylogenetic dissimilarity between mine sites did not depart from null expectations. However, we found evidence for species sorting along abiotic gradients (slope and aspect) on the mine sites that had been abandoned for the longest.

Synthesis and applications. Understanding the trajectory of succession is critical for restoration efforts. Our results suggest that early colonizers represent a phylogenetically random subset of species from the local species pool. Over time, there appears to be selection for particular lineages that come to be filtered across space and environment. The species most appropriate for mine site restoration might, therefore, depend on the successional stage of the community and the local species composition. For example, in later succession, it could be more beneficial to facilitate establishment of more distant relatives. Our findings can improve management practices by providing relatedness information for known successful colonizers and by informing seeding decisions with knowledge of the surrounding and regional species pools. The application of phylogenetics to restoration ecology and succession is relatively new, but it has the potential to provide novel insight into the dynamics of changing community structures during succession.
Histone H3K4 methylation regulates hyphal growth, secondary metabolism and multiple stress responses in Fusarium graminearum
Authors: Liu Ye , Liu Na , Yin Yanni , Chen Yun , Jiang Jinhua , Ma Zhonghua
Published: July 2015

Histone H3 lysine 4 methylation (H3K4me) is generally associated with actively transcribed genes in a variety of eukaryotes. The function of H3K4me in phytopathogenic fungi remains unclear. Here, we report that FgSet1 is predominantly responsible for mono‐, di‐ and trimethylation of H3K4 in Fusarium graminearum. The FgSET1 deletion mutant (ΔFgSet1) was crippled in hyphal growth and virulence. H3K4me is required for the active transcription of genes involved in deoxynivalenol and aurofusarin biosyntheses. Unexpectedly, FgSet1 plays an important role in the response of F. graminearum to cell wall‐damaging agents via negatively regulating phosphorylation of FgMgv1, a core kinase in the cell wall integrity pathway. In addition, ΔFgSet1 exhibited increased resistance to the transcription elongation inhibitor mycophenolic acid. Yeast two‐hybrid assays showed that FgSet1 physically interacts with multiple proteins including FgBre2, FgSpp1 and FgSwd2. FgBre2 further interacts with FgSdc1. Western blotting analyses showed that FgBre2 and FgSdc1 are associated with H3K4me. Both proteins are also involved in regulating deoxynivalenol biosynthesis and in responses to mycophenolic acid and cell wall‐damaging agents. Taken together, these data indicate that H3K4me plays critical roles not only in regulation of fungal growth and secondary metabolism but also in multiple stress responses in F. graminearum.
Chlorobaculum tepidum growth on biogenic S(0) as the sole photosynthetic electron donor
Authors: Hanson Thomas E. , Bonsu Ernest , Tuerk Amalie , Marnocha Cassandra L. , Powell Deborah H. , Chan Clara S.
Published: July 2015

The green sulfur bacteria, the Chlorobi, are phototrophic bacteria that oxidize sulfide and deposit extracellular elemental sulfur globules [S(0)]. These are subsequently consumed after sulfide is exhausted. S(0) globules from a Chlorobaculum tepidum mutant strain were purified and used to show that the wild‐type strain of Cba. tepidum can grow on biogenic S(0) globules as the sole photosynthetic electron donor, i.e. in medium with no other source of reducing power. Growth yields and rates on biogenic S(0) are comparable with those previously determined for Cba. tepidum grown on sulfide as the sole electron donor. Contact between cells and S(0) was required for growth. However, only a fraction of the cell population was firmly attached to S(0) globules. Microscopic examination of cultures growing on S(0) demonstrated cell–S(0) attachment and allowed for the direct observation of S(0) globule degradation. Bulk chemical analysis, scanning electron microscopy, secondary ion mass spectrometry and SDS‐PAGE indicate that Cba. tepidum biogenic S(0) globules contain carbon, oxygen and nitrogen besides S and may be associated with specific proteins. These observations suggest that current models of S(0) oxidation in the Chlorobi need to be revised to take into account the role of cell–S(0) interactions in promoting S(0) degradation.
Simulated soil crust conditions in a chamber system provide new insights on cyanobacterial acclimation to desiccation
Authors: Raanan Hagai , Oren Nadav , Treves Haim , Berkowicz Simon M. , Hagemann Martin , Pade Nadin , Keren Nir , Kaplan Aaron
Published: July 2015

Environmental research often faces two major hurdles: (i) fluctuating spatial and temporal conditions and consequently large variability in the organisms' abundance and performance, and (ii) complex, costly logistics involved in field experiments. Measurements of physiological parameters or molecular analyses often represent single shot experiments. To study desiccation acclimation of filamentous cyanobacteria, the founders and main primary producers in desert biological soil crusts (BSC), we constructed an environmental chamber that can reproducibly and accurately simulate ambient conditions and measure microorganism performance. We show that recovery from desiccation of BSC cyanobacteria and Leptolyngbya ohadii isolated thereof are strongly affected by dehydration rate following morning dew. This effect is most pronounced in cells exposed to high light and temperature in the dry phase. Simultaneous measurements of water content, gas exchange and fluorescence were performed during dehydration. Photosynthetic performance measured by fluorescence begins declining when light intensity reaches values above 100 μmol photons m−2 s−1, even in fully hydrated cells. In contrast, photosynthetic rates measured using O2 evolution and CO2 uptake increased during rising irradiance to the point where the water content declined below ∼ 50%. Thus, fluorescence cannot serve as a reliable measure of photosynthesis in desert cyanobacteria. The effects of drying on gas exchange are discussed.
Identification and characterization of naturally occurring DSF‐family quorum sensing signal turnover system in the phytopathogen Xanthomonas
Authors: Zhou Lian , Wang Xing‐Yu , Sun Shuang , Yang Li‐Chao , Jiang Bo‐Le , He Ya‐Wen
Published: July 2015

Molecules of the diffusible signal factor (DSF)‐family are a class of quorum sensing (QS) signals used by the phytopathogens Xanthomonas. Studies during the last decade have outlined how Xanthomonas cells enter the QS phase. However, information on the mechanism underlying its exit from the QS phase is limited. RpfB has recently been reported as a fatty acyl‐CoA ligase (FCL) that activates a wide range of fatty acids to their CoA esters in vitro. Here, we establish an improved quantification assay for DSF‐family signals using liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry in X. campestris pv. campestris (Xcc). We first demonstrated that RpfB represents a naturally occurring DSF‐family signal turnover system. RpfB effectively turns over DSF‐family signals DSF and BDSF in vivo. RpfB FCL enzymatic activity is required for DSF and BDSF turnover. Deletion of rpfB slightly increased Xcc virulence in the Chinese radish and overexpression of rpfB significantly decreased virulence. We further showed that the expression of rpfB is growth phase‐dependent, and its expression is significantly enhanced when Xcc cells enter the stationary phase. DSF regulates rpfB expression in a concentration‐dependent manner. rpfB expression is also negatively regulated by the DSF signalling components RpfC, RpfG and Clp. The global transcription factor Clp directly binds to the AATGC‐tgctgc‐GCATC motif in the promoter region of rpfB to repress its expression. Finally, RpfB‐dependent signal turnover system was detected in a wide range of bacterial species, suggesting that it is a conserved mechanism.
The social gradient in preventive healthcare use: what can we learn from socially mobile individuals?
Authors: Missinne Sarah , Daenekindt Stijn , Bracke Piet
Published: July 2015

Little is known about the origins of the stratified nature of preventive health behaviour. In this paper, we introduce theory and methodology from the field of social mobility research. Intergenerational socially mobile individuals can provide insights into the central discussion about how health lifestyles or cultural health capital develop over the life course, as they have encountered different contexts of socialisation, each with its own characteristic health‐related practices. We study the use of regular mammography screening by Belgian women using data from the Survey of Health, Aging and Retirement and we operationalise social mobility as occupational mobility using the International Standard Classification of Occupations (ISCO‐88). By means of diagonal reference models, we are able to discern the effects of the social position of origin, the social position of destination and social mobility itself, contrary to the less rigorous linear regression approach that prevails in health behaviour research. As expected, the take up of mammography screening is strongly influenced by social position. It seems that both upwardly and downwardly mobile women adapt to the mammography screening practices in their position of destination. This study shows the potential for social mobility research to enrich the debate on health lifestyles.
Diacetyl in Foods: A Review of Safety and Sensory Characteristics
Authors: Clark Stephanie , Winter Carl K.
Published: July 2015

Diacetyl, noted for its appealing butter‐like aroma, is present naturally in many foods, and humans have been exposed to it since the beginning of civilization. The advent of microwave (MW) cooking technology has led to the development of a significant market for MW popcorn, to which diacetyl and other flavoring compounds have been frequently added. Based upon reported associations between diacetyl inhalation and lung disease in employees of MW popcorn processing facilities, a very conservative safe level of occupational exposure to diacetyl has been proposed by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. Yet there is conflicting evidence that diacetyl causes lung disease in workers, and no evidence to condemn diacetyl as the cause of lung problems in MW popcorn consumers. Consumer dietary exposure to diacetyl in foods is below levels of health concern while common airborne levels of diacetyl from MW popcorn are far below the conservatively established limit to protect workers.
Medium‐Chain Acyl‐CoA Dehydrogenase Deficiency in Adulthood: A Potential Diagnosis in a Patient with Mental Status Changes Suspected of Drug Toxicity
Authors: Randall Morgan , Rolf Cristin , Gibson Stephanie Mayfield , Hall Patricia L. , Rinaldo Piero , Davis Gregory J.
Published: July 2015

Medium‐chain acyl‐CoA dehydrogenase (MCAD) deficiency is a rare but important component of the differential diagnosis for adults with a history of premortem mental status changes and the postmortem finding of hepatic steatosis. This case report describes a 30‐year‐old white man who, following a period of nausea and vomiting, was admitted to the hospital with sudden mental status deterioration followed rapidly by clinical deterioration and death. Treating physicians in this case suspected acute illicit drug toxicity with synthetic cathinones based on social history. Clinicians and medical examiners should be aware that the presentation, signs, and symptoms described may indicate an underlying inborn error of metabolism such as MCAD deficiency and take action accordingly.
Mating behavior as an indicator of quality of Drosophila subobscura males?
Authors: Savic Veselinovic Marija , Pavkovic‐Lucic Sofija , Kurbalija Novicic Zorana , Jelic Mihailo , Stamenkovic‐Radak Marina , Andjelkovic Marko
Published: July 2015

According to current theoretical predictions, any deleterious mutations that reduce nonsexual fitness may have a negative influence on mating success. This means that sexual selection may remove deleterious mutations from the populations. Males of good genetic quality should be more successful in mating, compared to the males of lower genetic quality. As mating success is a condition dependent trait, large fractions of the genome may be a target of sexual selection and many behavioral traits are likely to be condition dependent. We manipulated the genetic quality of Drosophila subobscura males by inducing mutations with ionizing radiation and observed the effects of the obtained heterozygous mutations on male mating behavior: courtship occurrence, courtship latency, mating occurrence, latency to mating and duration of mating. We found possible effects of mutations. Females mated more frequently with male progeny of nonirradiated males and that these males courted females faster compared to the male progeny of irradiated males. Our findings indicate a possible important role of sexual selection in purging deleterious mutations.
Characterization of Spaghetti Prepared Under Different Drying Conditions
Authors: Ogawa Takenobu , Chuma Asako , Aimoto Utano , Adachi Shuji
Published: July 2015

Spaghetti dried at low (max. 50 °C), high (max. 70 °C), and very high (max. 85 °C) temperatures were characterized by their color, surface structure, rupture strength, texture analysis, and sauce retention capacity. The texture and sauce retention capacity were estimated for cooked spaghetti. The color of the spaghetti's methanol extracts, as evaluated through absorbance at 440 and 466 nm, did not depend on the drying temperature. A trend was observed in the surface texture of spaghetti, as estimated by atomic force microscopy and mercury intrusion porosimetry, where the surface was rougher when dried at higher temperatures than at low temperatures. Furthermore, the rupture strength was also higher for the spaghetti dried at higher temperatures. This result can be ascribed to the formation of stronger gluten networks, promoted by denaturation of gluten at the higher temperatures. However, the hardness of cooked spaghetti was not affected by the drying temperature, a result attributable to the action of water sorption to offset any differences in hardness among the spaghettis dried at the 3 different temperatures. The sauce retention capacity of cooked spaghetti was evaluated using a dextran solution as a simulated sauce, and by this method, the capacity of the spaghetti dried at a low temperature was shown to be significantly lower than that of the spaghetti dried at higher temperatures. This can be ascribed to the smoother surface of cooked spaghetti dried at the lower temperature and also to the leakage of amylose onto the surface during cooking.
Medical mirroring: granulomatosis with polyangiitis (formerly Wegener's) mimicking immunoglobulin‐G4 related disease
Authors: Kaushik Prashant , Stone John H. , Anderson James T. , Dugar Shaifali , Mathew Roy , Nikolic Boris , Patel Raina
Published: July 2015

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA; formerly Wegener's) can present with clinical and histopathological features similar to those of immunoglobulin‐G4 related disease (IgG4‐RD), a recently described fibro‐inflammatory condition. The ability of these two distinct entities to mimic each other closely creates significant pitfalls in diagnosis. We present a unique case in which GPA presented as a peri‐aortic fibrotic mass in the retroperitoneum. The patient's other clinical features also overlapped with classic IgG4‐RD disease manifestations, but the histopathology in two organs and the serological data confirmed the diagnosis of GPA. Rigorous histopathological review remains the gold standard for the diagnosis of GPA and the distinction of this entity from IgG4‐RD and other mimickers.
IgE responses to exogenous and endogenous allergens in atopic dermatitis patients under long‐term systemic cyclosporine A treatment
Authors: Lucae S. , Schmid‐Grendelmeier P. , Wüthrich B. , Kraft D. , Valenta R. , Linhart B.
Published: July 2015

Atopic dermatitis (AD) patients mount IgE antibody responses to a variety of environmental allergens and also to autoantigens. We analyzed serum samples from four AD patients who had received oral cyclosporine A (CyA) treatment for up to 17 months regarding IgE autoreactivity to nitrocellulose‐blotted human epithelial cell extracts and IgE levels to environmental allergens by quantitative ImmunoCap measurements. Skin inflammation was assessed by SCORAD. During full‐dose treatment, a strong reduction in T‐cell‐mediated skin symptoms was observed which reappeared when CyA treatment was reduced or stopped. The intensity of IgE autoreactivity seemed to follow skin inflammation as it was reduced during full‐dose treatment and increased upon inflammation. Interestingly, IgE levels to exogenous allergens were boosted by allergen exposure, declined thereafter, and seemed to be unaffected by CyA. Our data thus indicate that allergen‐specific IgE production is boosted by allergen contact and cannot be reduced by CyA‐mediated T‐cell suppression.
Health coaching to prevent excessive gestational weight gain: A randomized‐controlled trial
Authors: Skouteris Helen , McPhie Skye , Hill Briony , McCabe Marita , Milgrom Jeannette , Kent Bridie , Bruce Lauren , Herring Sharon , Gale Janette , Mihalopoulos Cathrine , Shih Sophy , Teale Glyn , Lachal Jennifer
Published: July 2015

Objectives

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the efficacy of a health coaching (HC) intervention designed to prevent excessive gestational weight gain (GWG), and promote positive psychosocial and motivational outcomes in comparison with an Education Alone (EA) group.

Design

Randomized‐controlled trial.

Methods

Two hundred and sixty‐one women who were <18 weeks pregnant consented to take part. Those allocated to the HC group received a tailored HC intervention delivered by a Health Coach, whilst those in the EA group attended two education sessions. Women completed measures, including motivation, psychosocial variables, sleep quality, and knowledge, beliefs and expectations concerning GWG, at 15 weeks of gestation (Time 1) and 33 weeks of gestation (Time 2). Post‐birth data were also collected at 2 months post‐partum (Time 3).

Results

There was no intervention effect in relation to weight gained during pregnancy, rate of excessive GWG or birth outcomes. The only differences between HC and EA women were higher readiness (b = 0.29, 95% CIs = 0.03–0.55, p < .05) and the importance to achieve a healthy GWG (b = 0.27, 95% CIs = 0.02–0.52, p < .05), improved sleep quality (b = −0.22, 95% CIs = −0.44 to −0.03, p < .05), and increased knowledge for an appropriate amount of GWG that would be best for their baby's health (b = −1.75, 95% CI = −3.26 to −0.24, p < .05) reported by the HC at Time 2.

Conclusions

Whilst the HC intervention was not successful in preventing excessive GWG, several implications for the design of future GWG interventions were identified, including the burden of the intervention commitment and the use of weight monitoring.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on the subject?

Designing interventions to address gestational weight gain (GWG) continues to be a challenge.

To date, health behaviour change factors have not been the focus of GWG interventions.

What does this study add?

Our health coaching (HC) intervention did not reduce GWG more so than education alone (EA).

There was an intervention effect on readiness and importance to achieve healthy GWG.

Yet there were no group differences regarding confidence to achieve healthy GWG post‐intervention.
Relationship Reciprocation Modulates Resource Allocation in Adolescent Social Networks: Developmental Effects
Authors: Burnett Heyes Stephanie , Jih Yeou‐Rong , Block Per , Hiu Chii‐Fen , Holmes Emily A. , Lau Jennifer Y. F.
Published: July 2015

Adolescence is characterized as a period of social reorientation toward peer relationships, entailing the emergence of sophisticated social abilities. Two studies (Study 1: N = 42, ages 13–17; Study 2: N = 81, ages 13–16) investigated age group differences in the impact of relationship reciprocation within school‐based social networks on an experimental measure of cooperation behavior. Results suggest development between mid‐ and late adolescence in the extent to which reciprocation of social ties predicted resource allocation. With increasing age group, investment decisions increasingly reflected the degree to which peers reciprocated feelings of friendship. This result may reflect social‐cognitive development, which could facilitate the ability to navigate an increasingly complex social world in adolescence and promote positive and enduring relationships into adulthood.
Hearing Where the Eyes See: Children Use an Irrelevant Visual Cue When Localizing Sounds
Authors: Petrini Karin , Jones Peter R. , Smith Louise , Nardini Marko
Published: July 2015

To reduce sensory uncertainty, humans combine cues from multiple senses. However, in everyday life, many co‐occurring cues are irrelevant to the task at hand. How do humans know which cues to ignore? And does this ability change with development? This study shows the ability to ignore cross‐modal irrelevant information develops late in childhood. Participants performed a sound discrimination task, with or without an irrelevant visual flash, presented synchronously in front of them. Adults ignored the irrelevant visual information, while 7‐ to 10‐year‐olds' responses were biased toward the flash location. The findings show that acquiring mature cue combination mechanisms is a multifaceted process that includes learning to ignore irrelevant cues, as well as to optimally combine relevant cues.
Educational level and chronic inflammation in the elderly – the role of obesity: results from the population‐based CARLA study
Authors: Medenwald D. , Loppnow H. , Kluttig A. , Nuding S. , Greiser K. H. , Thiery J. , Tiller D. , Herzog B. , Werdan K. , Haerting J.
Published: July 2015

This study aimed to assess the mediating role of anthropometric parameters in the relation of education and inflammation in the elderly. Cross‐sectional data from the population‐based CARdio‐vascular Disease, Living and Ageing in Halle study were used after excluding subjects with a plasma level of high‐sensitive C‐reactive protein (hsCRP) above 10 mg L−1 (916 men/760 women remaining). Education was categorized in accordance with International Standard Classification of Education. As inflammation parameters, the soluble tumour necrosis factor type 1 (sTNF‐R1), hsCRP and interleukin 6 (IL‐6) were taken into account. Anthropometric parameters were the body mass index (BMI), waist‐to‐hip ratio (WHR) and waist‐to‐height ratio (WHeR). We used covariate adjusted mixed models to assess associations. Effect measures were the natural indirect effect (NIE), controlled direct effect and total effect (TE). Education was associated with sTNF‐R1, hsCRP and IL‐6 in men, and sTNF‐R1 and hsCRP in women. Anthropometric parameters correlated with all inflammation parameters after covariate adjustment. BMI and WHeR were strong mediators of educational differences in sTNF‐R1 (percentage of NIE of TE: 28% in men; 33% in women) and hsCRP (percentage of NIE of TE: 35% in men; 52% in women), while WHR was the weakest mediator. General obesity mediates roughly one‐third of the association of education with chronic inflammation in the elderly.
Strategies against Architecture: Interactive Media and Transformative Technology at the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum
Authors: Chan Sebastian , Cope Aaron
Published: July 2015

After being closed for three years, the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum reopened at the end of 2014 a transformed museum in a renovated heritage building: Andrew Carnegie's former home on the Upper East Side of New York City. New galleries, a collection that was being rapidly digitized, a new brand, and a desire for new audiences drove the museum to rethink and reposition its role as a design museum. At the core of the new museum is a digital platform, built in‐house, that connects collection‐ and patron‐management systems to in‐gallery and online experiences. These have allowed the museum to redesign everything from object labels and vitrines to the fundamentals of the “visitor experience.” This paper explores in detail the process, the decisions made—and resulting tradeoffs—during each stage of the process. In so doing, it reveals the challenges of collaborating with internal and external capacities, operating internationally with online collaboration tools, and rapid prototyping.
A role for exercise after bariatric surgery?
Authors: Coen Paul M. , Goodpaster Bret H.
Published: July 2015

Obesity predisposes an individual to develop numerous comorbidities, including type 2 diabetes, and represents a major healthcare issue in many countries worldwide. Bariatric surgery can be an effective treatment option, resulting in profound weight loss and improvements in metabolic health; however, not all patients achieve similar weight loss or metabolic improvements. Exercise is an excellent way to improve health, with well‐characterized physiological and psychological benefits. In the present paper we review the evidence to determine whether there may be a role for exercise as a complementary adjunct therapy to bariatric surgery. Objectively measured physical activity data indicate that most patients who undergo bariatric surgery do not exercise enough to reap the health benefits of exercise. While there is a dearth of data on the effects of exercise on weight loss and weight loss maintenance after surgery, evidence from studies of caloric restriction and exercise suggest that similar adjunctive benefits may be extended to patients who perform exercise after bariatric surgery. Recent evidence from exercise interventions after bariatric surgery suggests that exercise may provide further improvements in metabolic health compared with surgery‐induced weight loss alone. Additional randomized controlled exercise trials are now needed as the next step to more clearly define the potential for exercise to provide additional health benefits after bariatric surgery. This valuable evidence will inform clinical practice regarding much‐needed guidelines for exercise after bariatric surgery.
Intraventricular versus intravenous colistin for the treatment of extensively drug resistant Acinetobacter baumannii meningitis
Authors: De Bonis P. , Lofrese G. , Scoppettuolo G. , Spanu T. , Cultrera R. , Labonia M. , Cavallo M. A. , Mangiola A. , Anile C. , Pompucci A.
Published: July 2015

Background and purpose

Reports on the safety and efficacy of intraventricularly administered (IVT) colistin for the treatment of Acinetobacter baumannii ventriculomeningitis in adults are limited and no comparative studies of IVT colistin versus intravenous (IV) therapy alone have been published. This study compared outcomes of patients with postneurosurgical ventriculomeningitis caused by extensively drug‐resistant A. baumannii treated with IV colistin or IV plus IVT colistin.

Methods

In an 11‐year period, information on 18 consecutive patients with extensively drug‐resistant A. baumannii ventriculomeningitis was collected. Infection was defined on the basis of (i) isolation of A. baumannii from the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF); (ii) laboratory evidence of CSF infection; (iii) signs/symptoms of central nervous system (CNS) infection. Patients were divided into group 1 (nine patients, IV colistin alone) and group 2 (nine patients, IV plus IVT colistin).

Results

Cerebrospinal fluid sterilization was documented for 12 of 18 patients (66.6%). The CSF sterilization rate was 33.3% in group 1 and 100% in group 2 (P = 0.009). The mean time to CSF sterilization was 21 days (range 8–48). Five patients died due to A. baumannii CNS infection (all in group 1), and five deaths were unrelated to A. baumannii ventriculomeningitis. Intensive care unit mean length of stay was shorter in group 2 (20.7 vs. 41.6 days, P = 0.046). Crude relative risk ratio of cumulative incidence of persistent CNS infection in group 1 versus group 2 was 13. No cases of chemical meningitis due to intrathecal colistin administration were encountered.

Conclusions

Intraventricular colistin administration is much more effective than IV therapy alone and does not seem to add further toxicity.
The brain‐derived neurotrophic factor Val66Met polymorphism and degeneration of the corticospinal tract after stroke: a diffusion tensor imaging study
Authors: Kim E.‐J. , Park C.‐H. , Chang W. H. , Lee A. , Kim S. T. , Shin Y.‐I. , Kim Y.‐H.
Published: July 2015

Background and purpose

A common single nucleotide polymorphism, Val66Met, in the human brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene has a potential role in the pathogenesis and treatment of stroke. The relevance of the BDNF Val66Met polymorphism to long‐term stroke outcomes was examined, specifically with respect to changes in corticospinal integrity.

Methods

Thirty‐five stroke patients with unilateral motor weakness were genotyped within 2 weeks after onset (T1), and changes in the integrity of the ipsilesional corticospinal tract (CST) as well as alterations in motor function at 1 month (T2) and 3 months after onset (T3) were tracked.

Results

On the basis of the Fugl−Meyer assessment upper extremity score, carriers of the Met allele (Val/Met and Met/Met) showed poorer motor outcomes at T2 and T3 compared to carriers of only the Val allele (Val/Val). For both BDNF allele types, patients exhibited characteristic degeneration of the CST compared to healthy controls. There were no differences between the two genotypes with respect to time‐dependent changes in diffusion‐tensor‐imaging‐derived parameters of the CST. However, the two groups showed different relationships between motor outcomes and directional diffusivities according to the elapsed time after onset. Poorer motor function was associated with lower axial diffusivity values for the Val/Val genotype group in the sub‐acute phase (T1 and T2) but with higher radial diffusivity values for the Val/Met and Met/Met genotype group in the early chronic phase (T3).

Conclusions

Motor recovery in stroke patients may be affected by the BDNF Val66Met polymorphism, possibly through its effects on distinct pathological processes underlying corticospinal degeneration.
Early prognostication markers in cardiac arrest patients treated with hypothermia
Authors: Karapetkova M. , Koenig M. A. , Jia X.
Published: July 2015

Background and purpose

Established prognostication markers, such as clinical findings, electroencephalography (EEG) and biochemical markers, used by clinicians to predict neurological outcome after cardiac arrest (CA) are altered under therapeutic hypothermia (TH) conditions and their validity remains uncertain.

Methods

MEDLINE and Embase were searched for evidence on the current standards for neurological outcome prediction for out‐of‐hospital CA patients treated with TH and the validity of a wide range of prognostication markers. Relevant studies that suggested one or several established biomarkers and multimodal approaches for prognostication are included and reviewed.

Results

Whilst the prognostic accuracy of various tests after TH has been questioned, pupillary light reflexes and somatosensory evoked potentials are still strongly associated with negative outcome for early prognostication. Increasingly, EEG background activity has also been identified as a valid predictor for outcome after 72 h after CA and a preferred prognostic method in clinical settings. Neuroimaging techniques, such as magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography, can identify functional and structural brain injury but are not readily available at the patient's bedside because of limited availability and high costs.

Conclusions

A multimodal algorithm composed of neurological examination, EEG‐based quantitative testing and somatosensory evoked potentials, in conjunction with newer magnetic resonance imaging sequences, if available, holds promise for accurate prognostication in CA patients treated with TH. In order to avoid premature withdrawal of care, prognostication should be performed more than 72 h after CA.
DYNLT (Tctex‐1) forms a tripartite complex with dynein intermediate chain and RagA, hence linking this small GTPase to the dynein motor
Authors: Merino‐Gracia Javier , García‐Mayoral María Flor , Rapali Peter , Valero Ruth Ana , Bruix Marta , Rodríguez‐Crespo Ignacio
Published: July 2015

It has been suggested that DYNLT, a dynein light chain known to bind to various cellular and viral proteins, can function as a microtubule–cargo adaptor. Recent data showed that DYNLT links the small GTPase Rab3D to microtubules and, for this to occur, the DYNLT homodimer needs to display a binding site for dynein intermediate chain together with a binding site for the small GTPase. We have analysed in detail how RagA, another small GTPase, associates to DYNLT. After narrowing down the binding site of RagA to DYNLT we could identify that a β strand, part of the RagA G3 box involved in nucleotide binding, mediates this association. Interestingly, we show that both microtubule‐associated DYNLT and cytoplasmic DYNLT are equally able to bind to the small GTPases Rab3D and RagA. Using NMR spectroscopy, we analysed the binding of dynein intermediate chain and RagA to mammalian DYNLT. Our experiments identify residues of DYNLT affected by dynein intermediate chain binding and residues affected by RagA binding, hence distinguishing the docking site for each of them. In summary, our results shed light on the mechanisms adopted by DYNLT when binding to protein cargoes that become transported alongside microtubules bound to the dynein motor.
SWITCHING COST AND DEPOSIT DEMAND IN CHINA
Authors: Ho Chun‐Yu
Published: July 2015

This article develops and estimates a dynamic model of consumer demand for deposits in which banks provide differentiated products and product characteristics that evolve over time. The switching cost is 0.8% of the deposit's value, which leads the static model to bias the demand estimates. The dynamic model shows that the price elasticity over a long time horizon is larger than the same elasticity over a short time horizon. Counterfactual experiments with a dynamic monopoly show that reducing the switching cost has a comparable competitive effect on bank pricing as a result of reducing the dominant position of the monopoly.
REGULATION, IMPERFECT COMPETITION, AND THE U.S. ABORTION MARKET
Authors: Beauchamp Andrew
Published: July 2015

The U.S. abortion market has grown increasingly concentrated recently, while many states tightened abortion laws. Using data on abortion providers, I estimate an equilibrium model of demand, price competition, entry and exit, to capture the effect of regulation on industry dynamics. Estimates show regulations played an important role in determining the abortion market structure and evolution. Counterfactual simulations reveal increases in demand‐aimed regulation were the most important observed factor in explaining recent abortion declines. Simulating Utah's regulatory regime nationally shows tightening abortion restrictions can increase abortions in equilibrium, mainly through tilting the competitive landscape toward low‐price providers.
BARGAINING FAILURES AND MERGER POLICY
Authors: Burguet Roberto , Caminal Ramon
Published: July 2015

We study approval rules in a model where horizontal merger proposals arise endogenously as the outcome of negotiations among the firms in the industry. We make two main points. First, relatively inefficient merger proposals succeed with positive probability. That is, the negotiation process may result in a particular merger agreement despite the existence of an alternative one that would generate higher profits and higher consumer surplus. Second, the antitrust authority should optimally commit to an approval rule that is more stringent for all mergers than the optimal ex post rule.
Gamma Rays Effects on the Optical Properties of Cerium‐Doped Glasses
Authors: Baccaro Stefania , Cemmi Alessia , Di Sarcina Ilaria , Menchini Francesca
Published: July 2015

Optical systems employed in high‐energy environments are subjected to high doses of ionizing radiation and the stability of their optical properties is required to avoid a possible failure of the experiments. Radiation hard glasses are widely used as substrates or windows in high‐energy applications, due to their resistance in hostile environments where energetic particles and γ rays are present. In this work, radiation‐resistant commercial glass samples were irradiated by 60Co γ rays from 50 to 3 × 105 Gy absorbed doses and at three different dose rates. The optical properties of the samples were measured to evaluate the gamma irradiation effects and the damage recovery after the end of irradiation. A dependence on the irradiation dose rates was found.
Subacute oral toxicity of cocoa tea (Camellia ptilophylla) water extract in SD rats
Authors: Li Kaikai , Zhou Xuelin , Yang Xiaorong , Shi Xianggang , Song Xiaohong , Ye Chuangxing , Ko Chun Hay
Published: July 2015

Camellia ptilophylla, known as cocoa tea, is a natural decaffeinated tea plant which has been proved with potential bioactivities. This study was carried out to evaluate the safety of green cocoa tea water extract (CWE) by determining its potential toxicity after subacute administration in SD rats. In the subacute toxicity study, oral administration of CWE up to 800 mg kg−1 body weight day−1 for twenty‐eight consecutive days did not cause either mortality or toxicity in SD rats, regardless of gender. There were no adverse effects in body weight, food consumption, relative organ weight, haematological parameters, clinical chemistry, gross pathology and histopathology between treatment and control groups. Several parameters (e.g. neutrophils%, Ca2+, total Ca) in CWE‐treated rats with high dosage were significantly different from the control groups, but still in a safety level. A dose of 800 mg kg−1 day−1 was identified as the no observed adverse effect level (NOAEL) in this study.
Effect of chitosan on Bacillus cereus inhibition and quality of cooked rice during storage
Authors: Rachtanapun Chitsiri , Tantala Juthamas , Klinmalai Phatthranit , Ratanasumawong Savitree
Published: July 2015

Improper cooling of cooked rice at an inappropriate temperature or leaving cooked rice at room temperature can cause food poisoning attributed to Bacillus cereus. Natural food preservative of either squid or crab polymer chitosan solution was added to examine their antibacterial properties against Bacillus cereus in cooked rice during storage at 37 and 4 °C. Both types of chitosan could retard the growth of B. cereus and total aerobic counts in cooked rice stored at 37 °C up to 1 day. In addition, the effect of chitosans on the physical and textural properties of cooked rice during storage was studied. Both chitosans slightly increased the moisture content of cooked rice. However, chitosans had no effect on the whiteness and hardness of cooked rice during storage (P > 0.05). Therefore, both chitosans have a potential to be used as food preservative for cooked rice with no negative effects on rice quality.
Fundamentals of Watershed Hydrology
Authors: Edwards Pamela J. , Williard Karl W.J. , Schoonover Jon E.
Published: July 2015

This is a primer about hydrology, the science of water. Watersheds are the basic land unit for water resource management and their delineation, importance, and variation are explained and illustrated. The hydrologic cycle and its components (precipitation, evaporation, transpiration, soil water, groundwater, and streamflow) which collectively provide a foundation for how landscapes and water interact are discussed at length. Important hydrologic concepts and methods are described in detail but primarily within the context of forested watersheds since most of the nation's fresh water originates from forest lands. The contents of this paper are designed to provide fundamental hydrologic principles to both citizens and policy makers, with the intention of helping to guide informed watershed management activities.
An Introduction to Soil Concepts and the Role of Soils in Watershed Management
Authors: Schoonover Jon E. , Crim Jackie F.
Published: July 2015

Soil is a non‐renewable dynamic natural resource that is essential to life. Water movement, water quality, land use, and vegetation productivity all have relationships with soil. This article introduces many important soil concepts including development, classification, properties (physical, chemical, and biological), quality, and conservation. A general understanding of soil concepts and these interwoven relationships is essential to making sound land management decisions.
Phase Transformation in Ca3(PO4)2:Eu2+ via the Controlled Quenching and Increased Eu2+ Content: Identification of New Cyan‐Emitting α‐Ca3(PO4)2:Eu2+ Phosphor
Authors: Ji Haipeng , Huang Zhaohui , Xia Zhiguo , Molokeev Maxim S. , Chen Mingyue , Atuchin Victor V. , Fang Minghao , Liu Yan'gai , Wu Xiaowen
Published: July 2015

A case of phosphor is reported where the cooling rate parameter significantly influences the luminescence property. By quenching the sample after the high‐temperature solid‐state reaction at 1250°C, we successfully prepared the Eu2+‐doped α form Ca3(PO4)2 (α‐TCP:Eu2+) as a new kind of bright cyan‐emitting phosphor. The unusual emission color variation (from cyan to blue) depends on the cooling rate after sintering and Eu2+ doping level as it was observed in the TCP‐based phosphors. By the Rietveld analysis, it is revealed that the cyan‐ and blue‐emitting phosphors are two different TCP forms crystallizing in the monoclinic (space group P21/a, α‐TCP) and the rhombohedral structure (space group R3c, β‐TCP), respectively. Upon 365 nm UV light excitation, α‐TCP:Eu2+ exhibits an asymmetric broad‐band cyan emission peaking at 480 nm, while β‐TCP:Eu2+ displays a relatively narrow‐band blue emission peaking at 416 nm. The Eu2+‐doping in Ca3(PO4)2 shifts the upper temperature limit of the stable structural range of β form from 1125°C to ≥1250°C. Moreover, the crystal structures of α/β‐TCP:Eu2+ were compared in the aspects of compactness and cation site sets. The emission thermal stability of α/β‐TCP:Eu2+ was comparatively characterized and the difference was related to the specific host structural features.