bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Semantically Enriching an Open Source Sensor Observation Service Implementation for Accessing Heterogeneous Environmental Data Sources
Authors: Hilbring Désirée , Moumtzidou Anastasia , Moßgraber Jürgen , Vrochidis Stefanos
Published: December 2013

Many kinds of environmental data are nowadays publicly available, but spread over the web. This article discusses using the Sensor Observation Service (SOS) standard of the Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC) as a common interface for providing data from heterogeneous sources which can be integrated to a user tailored environmental information system. In order to allow for providing user‐tailored and problem‐specific information the adjusted SOS is augmented by a semantic layer which maps the environmental information to ontology concepts. The necessary information fusion from different domains and data types lead to several specific requirements for the SOS. Addressing these requirements we have implemented a SOS which still conforms to the OGC SOS 1.0.0 standard specification. The developed SOS has been integrated in a publicly available demonstrator of our personalized environmental information system. Additionally this article discusses future consequences for the SOS, caused by the recently published SOS 2.0 specification.
Lack of isocitrate lyase in Chlamydomonas leads to changes in carbon metabolism and in the response to oxidative stress under mixotrophic growth
Authors: Plancke Charlotte , Vigeolas Helene , Höhner Ricarda , Roberty Stephane , Emonds‐Alt Barbara , Larosa Véronique , Willamme Remi , Duby Franceline , Onga Dhali David , Thonart Philippe , Hiligsmann Serge , Franck Fabrice , Eppe Gauthier , Cardol Pierre , Hippler Michael , Remacle Claire
Published: November 2013

Isocitrate lyase is a key enzyme of the glyoxylate cycle. This cycle plays an essential role in cell growth on acetate, and is important for gluconeogenesis as it bypasses the two oxidative steps of the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle in which CO2 is evolved. In this paper, a null icl mutant of the green microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii is described. Our data show that isocitrate lyase is required for growth in darkness on acetate (heterotrophic conditions), as well as for efficient growth in the light when acetate is supplied (mixotrophic conditions). Under these latter conditions, reduced acetate assimilation and concomitant reduced respiration occur, and biomass composition analysis reveals an increase in total fatty acid content, including neutral lipids and free fatty acids. Quantitative proteomic analysis by 14N/15N labelling was performed, and more than 1600 proteins were identified. These analyses reveal a strong decrease in the amounts of enzymes of the glyoxylate cycle and gluconeogenesis in parallel with a shift of the TCA cycle towards amino acid synthesis, accompanied by an increase in free amino acids. The decrease of the glyoxylate cycle and gluconeogenesis, as well as the decrease in enzymes involved in β–oxidation of fatty acids in the icl mutant are probably major factors that contribute to remodelling of lipids in the icl mutant. These modifications are probably responsible for the elevation of the response to oxidative stress, with significantly augmented levels and activities of superoxide dismutase and ascorbate peroxidase, and increased resistance to paraquat.
Jasmonate‐dependent modifications of the pectin matrix during potato development function as a defense mechanism targeted by Dickeya dadantii virulence factors
Authors: Taurino Marco , Abelenda Jose A. , Río‐Alvarez Isabel , Navarro Cristina , Vicedo Begonya , Farmaki Theodora , Jiménez Pedro , García‐Agustín Pilar , López‐Solanilla Emilia , Prat Salomé , Rojo Enrique , Sánchez‐Serrano José J. , Sanmartín Maite
Published: November 2013

The plant cell wall constitutes an essential protection barrier against pathogen attack. In addition, cell‐wall disruption leads to accumulation of jasmonates (JAs), which are key signaling molecules for activation of plant inducible defense responses. However, whether JAs in return modulate the cell‐wall composition to reinforce this defensive barrier remains unknown. The enzyme 13–allene oxide synthase (13–AOS) catalyzes the first committed step towards biosynthesis of JAs. In potato (Solanum tuberosum), there are two putative St13–AOS genes, which we show here to be differentially induced upon wounding. We also determine that both genes complement an Arabidopsis aos null mutant, indicating that they encode functional 13–AOS enzymes. Indeed, transgenic potato plants lacking both St13–AOS genes (CoAOS1/2 lines) exhibited a significant reduction of JAs, a concomitant decrease in wound‐responsive gene activation, and an increased severity of soft rot disease symptoms caused by Dickeya dadantii. Intriguingly, a hypovirulent D. dadantii pel strain lacking the five major pectate lyases, which causes limited tissue maceration on wild‐type plants, regained infectivity in CoAOS1/2 plants. In line with this, we found differences in pectin methyl esterase activity and cell‐wall pectin composition between wild‐type and CoAOS1/2 plants. Importantly, wild‐type plants had pectins with a lower degree of methyl esterification, which are the substrates of the pectate lyases mutated in the pel strain. These results suggest that, during development of potato plants, JAs mediate modification of the pectin matrix to form a defensive barrier that is counteracted by pectinolytic virulence factors from D. dadantii.
Distinct Pseudomonas type‐III effectors use a cleavable transit peptide to target chloroplasts
Authors: Li Guangyong , Froehlich John E. , Elowsky Christian , Msanne Joseph , Ostosh Andrew C. , Zhang Chi , Awada Tala , Alfano James R.
Published: December 2013

The pathogen Pseudomonas syringae requires a type‐III protein secretion system and the effector proteins it injects into plant cells for pathogenesis. The primary role for P. syringae type‐III effectors is the suppression of plant immunity. The P. syringae pv. tomato DC3000 HopK1 type‐III effector was known to suppress the hypersensitive response (HR), a programmed cell death response associated with effector‐triggered immunity. Here we show that DC3000 hopK1 mutants are reduced in their ability to grow in Arabidopsis, and produce reduced disease symptoms. Arabidopsis transgenically expressing HopK1 are reduced in PAMP‐triggered immune responses compared with wild‐type plants. An N‐terminal region of HopK1 shares similarity with the corresponding region in the well‐studied type‐III effector AvrRps4; however, their C‐terminal regions are dissimilar, indicating that they have different effector activities. HopK1 is processed in planta at the same processing site found in AvrRps4. The processed forms of HopK1 and AvrRps4 are chloroplast localized, indicating that the shared N‐terminal regions of these type‐III effectors represent a chloroplast transit peptide. The HopK1 contribution to virulence and the ability of HopK1 and AvrRps4 to suppress immunity required their respective transit peptides, but the AvrRps4‐induced HR did not. Our results suggest that a primary virulence target of these type‐III effectors resides in chloroplasts, and that the recognition of AvrRps4 by the plant immune system occurs elsewhere. Moreover, our results reveal that distinct type‐III effectors use a cleavable transit peptide to localize to chloroplasts, and that targets within this organelle are important for immunity.
Fault Diagnosis of Exhaust Gas Recirculation and Variable Geometry Turbocharger Systems in a Passenger Car Diesel Engine Based on a Sliding Mode Observer for Air System States Estimation
Authors: Lee Hyunjun , Lee Joonhee , Sunwoo Myoungho
Published: December 2013

In this paper, we propose a sliding mode observer based fault diagnosis algorithm for diesel engines with exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) systems. The nonlinear sliding mode observer is proposed for precise states estimation of air system in diesel engines. Based on the estimation results of the observer and the limited sensor information in mass-produced engines, a residual generation model is derived. A modified cumulative summation algorithm is applied to the residual generation model for robust fault detection and isolation of the EGR and VGT systems. The proposed observer based fault diagnosis algorithm is implemented on a real-time embedded system, and the bypass function of an engine management system (EMS) is applied to generate multiple types of fault conditions in the systems. As a result of this study, estimation performance of the proposed observer is validated and successful fault diagnosis of the EGR and VGT systems is demonstrated through engine experiments.
Long-Distance Integration of Nuclear ERK Signaling Triggered by Activation of a Few Dendritic Spines
Authors: Zhai Shenyu , Ark Eugene D. , Parra-Bueno Paula , Yasuda Ryohei
Published: November 2013

It Takes a Few

Persistent maintenance of long-term potentiation (LTP) of glutamatergic synapses and long-term memory requires neuronal nuclear signaling that leads to gene transcription. It is unclear whether signaling produced at a single dendritic spine can be transmitted into the nucleus to regulate gene transcription. Using two-photon glutamate uncaging in combination with two-photon fluorescence lifetime imaging,

Zhai
et al.

(p.
1107
) show that induction of LTP in only three to seven dendritic spines in a hippocampal pyramidal neuron can trigger activation of nuclear extracellular signal–regulated kinase and downstream transcription factors cyclic adenosine monophosphate response element–binding protein and E26-like transcription factor-1. Thus, signaling initiated in each dendritic spine can be transmitted into the nucleus to regulate gene transcription. Furthermore, biochemical signaling in multiple dendritic branches was integrated to activate the nuclear signaling.
Calibrating Asteroid Impact
Authors: Chapman Clark R.
Published: November 2013

The airburst over the Russian city of Chelyabinsk earlier this year provides a calibration point to assess the possible damage due to asteroid strikes.

[Also see Research Article by

Popova
et al.

]
Imaging the Absolute Configuration of a Chiral Epoxide in the Gas Phase
Authors: Herwig Philipp , Zawatzky Kerstin , Grieser Manfred , Heber Oded , Jordon-Thaden Brandon , Krantz Claude , Novotný Oldřich , Repnow Roland , Schurig Volker , Schwalm Dirk , Vager Zeev , Wolf Andreas , Trapp Oliver , Kreckel Holger
Published: November 2013

Foil-Forged Images

X-ray diffraction is widely used to determine molecular geometries and can often distinguish mirror image isomers (enantiomers), which generally requires well-ordered crystals.

Herwig
et al.

(p.
1084
) report an imaging technique to characterize enantiomers in the gas phase. A succession of ionization events were induced by passage through a carbon foil that culminated in a Coulomb explosion of mutually repelling nuclei. The trajectories of these nuclei precisely reflected the original molecular structure.
Genomes from Metagenomics
Authors: Sharon Itai , Banfield Jillian F.
Published: November 2013

Metagenomic approaches are rapidly expanding our knowledge of microbial metabolic potential.
Research Integrity in China
Authors: Yang Wei
Published: November 2013

China's research capacity has grown dramatically in the past decade, an expansion that is reshaping the landscape of global scientific investigation. This rapid growth has not necessarily been accompanied by an equally measured promotion of the cultural norms of the scientific enterprise. Most troubling is a lack of research integrity, which may hinder China's growth in original science, damage the reputation of Chinese academics, and dampen the impact of science developed in China.
New Head of Advocacy Group Plans to 'Fight the Good Fight'
Authors: Mervis Jeffrey
Published: November 2013

The new head of the National Center for Science Education promises to "fight the good fight" against attacks on evolution and climate change in U.S. classrooms.
Development of a Highly Sensitive and Specific Blastomycosis Antibody Enzyme Immunoassay Using Blastomyces dermatitidis Surface Protein BAD-1
Authors: Richer Sarah M. , Smedema Melinda L. , Durkin Michelle M. , Brandhorst T. Tristan , Hage Chadi A. , Connolly Patricia A. , Leland Diane S. , Davis Thomas E. , Klein Bruce S. , Wheat L. Joseph
Published: November 2013

Serologic tests for antibodies toBlastomyces dermatitidisare not thought to be useful for the diagnosis of blastomycosis, in part due to the low sensitivity of immunodiffusion and complement fixation. Earlier studies have shown that the enzyme immunoassay improves the sensitivity of antibody detection for the diagnosis of blastomycosis. Microplates coated with theB. dermatitidissurface protein BAD-1 were used for testing sera from patients with proven blastomycosis or histoplasmosis and controls. Semiquantification was accomplished by using standards containing human anti-B. dermatitidisantibodies. The antibodies were detected in 87.8% of the patients with blastomycosis by the enzyme immunoassay compared to 15.0% by immunodiffusion. The specificities were 99.2% for patients with nonfungal infections and healthy subjects and 94.0% for patients with histoplasmosis. The results were highly reproducible on repeat testing. When combined with antigen testing, antibody testing improved the sensitivity from 87.8% to 97.6%. Enzyme immunoassay detection of antibodies against BAD-1 is highly specific, has greatly improved sensitivity over immunodiffusion, and may identify cases with negative results by antigen testing. This assay has the potential to aid in the diagnosis of blastomycosis.
Whole-Genome Sequences of Two Beak and Feather Disease Viruses in the Endangered Swift Parrot (
Lathamus discolor
)
Authors: Sarker Subir , Ghorashi Seyed A. , Forwood Jade K. , Raidal Shane R.
Published: November 2013

Two complete genomes of beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) were characterized from
Lathamus discolor
, the Australian swift parrot. This is the first report of BFDV complete genome sequences in this host. The completed BFDV genomes consist of 1,984 nucleotides encoding two open reading frames with 99.7% pairwise nucleotide identity.
Complete Genome Sequence of a Novel Iflavirus from the Transcriptome of
Halyomorpha halys
, the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug
Authors: Sparks Michael E. , Gundersen-Rindal Dawn E. , Harrison Robert L.
Published: November 2013

We report the genome sequence of a novel iflavirus recovered from the transcriptome of a colony of the brown marmorated stink bug,
Halyomorpha halys
. The genome is 9,263 nucleotides (nt) and contains an open reading frame (ORF) encoding a 3,017-amino-acid polyprotein.
Genome Sequence of
Mycoplasma parvum
(Formerly Eperythrozoon parvum), a Diminutive Hemoplasma of the Pig
Authors: do Nascimento Naíla C. , dos Santos Andrea P. , Chu Yuefeng , Guimaraes Ana M. S. , Pagliaro Apryl , Messick Joanne B.
Published: November 2013

We report the complete genome sequence of
Mycoplasma parvum
strain Indiana. Its circular chromosome is 564,395 bp, which is smaller than that of
Mycoplasma genitalium
, which was previously considered the smallest member of the
Mollicutes
. Comparative analyses of the genomes of
M. parvum
and
Mycoplasma suis
will provide novel insights into the molecular basis of their virulence.
Draft Genome Sequence of Lactobacillus jensenii Strain MD IIE-70(2)
Authors: Karlyshev Andrey V. , Nadarajah Sindhujan , Abramov Vyacheslav M.
Published: November 2013

A draft genome sequence of
Lactobacillus jensenii
strain MD IIE-70(2) was determined using Ion PGM technology. The reads were mapped to a reference strain and assembled using a combination of tools. The genetic features revealed in this study will assist in understanding the probiotic properties of
Lactobacillus
bacteria.
Recurrent Melioidosis in the Darwin Prospective Melioidosis Study: Improving Therapies Mean that Relapse Cases Are Now Rare
Authors: Sarovich Derek S. , Ward Linda , Price Erin P. , Mayo Mark , Pitman Matthew C. , Baird Robert W. , Currie Bart J.
Published: November 2013

The Darwin Prospective Melioidosis Study has documented 785 melioidosis cases over 23 years. Recurrent melioidosis occurred in 39/679 (5.7%) patients surviving initial infection; 29 patients suffered relapse of the original infection, and 10 presented with a new
Burkholderia pseudomallei
infection. With improved therapy, relapse has become rare in recent years.
Diagnosis of Prosthetic Joint Infection by Use of PCR-Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Greenwood-Quaintance Kerryl E. , Uhl James R. , Hanssen Arlen D. , Sampath Rangarajan , Mandrekar Jayawant N. , Patel Robin
Published: November 2013

We compared PCR-electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (PCR-ESI/MS) to culture using sonicate fluid from 431 subjects with explanted knee (
n
= 270) or hip (
n
= 161) prostheses. Of these, 152 and 279 subjects had prosthetic joint infection (PJI) and aseptic failure, respectively. The sensitivities for detecting PJI were 77.6% for PCR-ESI/MS and 69.7% for culture (
P
= 0.0105). The specificities were 93.5 and 99.3%, respectively (
P
= 0.0002).
Rescue of a Recombinant Machupo Virus from Cloned cDNAs and
In Vivo
Characterization in Interferon (αβ/γ) Receptor Double Knockout Mice
Authors: Patterson Michael , Seregin Alexey , Huang Cheng , Kolokoltsova Olga , Smith Jennifer , Miller Milagros , Smith Jeanon , Yun Nadezhda , Poussard Allison , Grant Ashley , Tigabu Bersabeh , Walker Aida , Paessler Slobodan
Published: November 2013

Machupo virus (MACV) is the etiological agent of Bolivian hemorrhagic fever (BHF), a reemerging and neglected tropical disease associated with high mortality. The prototypical strain of MACV, Carvallo, was isolated from a human patient in 1963, but minimal
in vitro
and
in vivo
characterization has been reported. To this end, we utilized reverse genetics to rescue a pathogenic MACV from cloned cDNAs. The recombinant MACV (rMACV) had
in vitro
growth properties similar to those of the parental MACV. Both viruses caused similar disease development in alpha/beta and gamma interferon receptor knockout mice, including neurological disease development and high mortality. In addition, we have identified a novel murine model with mortality and neurological disease similar to BHF disease reported in humans and nonhuman primates.
The N-Terminal Domain of PA from Bat-Derived Influenza-Like Virus H17N10 Has Endonuclease Activity
Authors: Tefsen Boris , Lu Guangwen , Zhu Yaohua , Haywood Joel , Zhao Lili , Deng Tao , Qi Jianxun , Gao George F.
Published: November 2013

Influenza imposes a great burden on society, not only in its seasonal appearance that affects both humans and domesticated animals but also through the constant threat of potential pandemics. Migratory birds are considered to be the reservoir hosts for influenza viruses, but other animals must also be considered. The recently identified influenza-like virus genome, from H17N10 in bats, was shown to be markedly different from genomes of other known influenza viruses, as both its surface glycoproteins hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) do not have canonical functions. However, no studies on other individual proteins from this particular virus have been reported until now. Here, we describe the structure of the N-terminal domain of PA from H17N10 influenza-like virus at 2.7-Å resolution and show that it has a fold similar to those of homologous PA domains present in more familiar influenza A virus strains. Moreover, we demonstrate that it possesses endonuclease activity and that the histidine residue in the active site is essential for this activity. Although this particular influenza virus subtype is probably not infectious for humans (even its virus state has not been confirmed in bats, as only the genome has been sequenced), reassortment of canonical influenza viruses with certain segments from H17N10 cannot be ruled out at this stage. Therefore, further studies are urgently needed for the sake of influenza prevention and control.
Palmitoylation and p8-Mediated Human T-Cell Leukemia Virus Type 1 Transmission
Authors: Edwards Dustin , Fukumoto Risaku , de Castro-Amarante Maria Fernanda , Alcantara Luiz Carlos Junior , Galvão-Castro Bernardo , Washington Parks Robyn , Pise-Masison Cynthia , Franchini Genoveffa
Published: November 2013

The
orf-I
gene of human T-cell leukemia type 1 (HTLV-1) encodes p8 and p12 and has a conserved cysteine at position 39. p8 and p12 form disulfide-linked dimers, and only the monomeric forms of p8 and p12 are palmitoylated. Mutation of cysteine 39 to alanine (C39A) abrogated dimerization and palmitoylation of both proteins. However, the ability of p8 to localize to the cell surface and to increase cell adhesion and viral transmission was not affected by the C39A mutation.
The Singular Quest for a Universal Tree of Life
Authors: Sapp Jan , Fox George E.
Published: December 2013

Carl Woese developed a unique research program, based on rRNA, for discerning bacterial relationships and constructing a universal tree of life. Woese's interest in the evolution of the genetic code led to him to investigate the deep roots of evolution, develop the concept of the progenote, and conceive of theArchaea. In so doing, he and his colleagues at the University of Illinois in Urbana revolutionized microbiology and brought the classification of microbes into an evolutionary framework. Woese also provided definitive evidence for the role of symbiosis in the evolution of the eukaryotic cell while underscoring the importance of lateral gene transfer in microbial evolution. Woese and colleagues' proposal of three fundamental domains of life was brought forward in direct conflict with the prokaryote-eukaryote dichotomy. Together with several colleagues and associates, he brought together diverse evidence to support the rRNA evidence for the fundamentally tripartite nature of life. This paper aims to provide insight into his accomplishments, how he achieved them, and his place in the history of biology.
Pneumothorax occurring after nasogastric tube removal
Authors: Paul Vishesh , Shenoy Amith , Kupfer Yizhak , Tessler Sidney
Published: December 2013

An 85-year-old woman with failure to thrive due to poor oral intake was admitted owing to dehydration. A nasogastric (NG) tube was inserted for the initiation of enteral feedings. The tube position was confirmed by gastric auscultation after insufflating air through the tube. A chest X-ray revealed that the NG tube traversed the right main stem bronchus with its tip ending in the right costophrenic angle adjacent to the pleura. No pneumothorax was identified. The tube was removed and a short while later the patient developed mild chest discomfort. A repeat chest X-ray revealed significant pneumothorax on the right side. She was treated conservatively with 100% oxygen with successful resolution of the pneumothorax.
Mixed dust pneumoconiosis occurring in an unusual setting
Authors: Vallurupalli Sunil , Chawla Kabu , Kupfer Yizhak , Tessler Sidney
Published: December 2013

Mixed dust pneumoconiosis secondary to domestic wood smoke exposure is a cause of pneumoconiosis in women from developing countries, but is rarely seen in the USA. An elderly female non-smoker, who immigrated to the USA from Pakistan 10 years previously, presented with a worsening non-productive cough and dyspnoea on exertion. She did not have any occupational or environmental exposures other than utilising firewood for cooking while living in Pakistan. Radiographs revealed multiple bilateral pulmonary nodules associated with hilar and mediastinal adenopathy. A video-assisted thoracoscopic biopsy revealed ill-defined nodules in a perivascular subpleural deposition, carbon pigment deposition around the terminal bronchioles, dust macules and negatively birefringent needles on polarised light microscopy with mixed dust nodules outnumbering the silicotic nodules consistent with mixed dust pneumoconiosis. This case illustrates the need for awareness of this condition among physicians caring for women who lived in areas where biomass exposure is common.
Bisphosphonate-induced atypical subtrochanteric femoral fracture
Authors: Vaishya Raju , Vaish Abhishek , Nadeem Arshad
Published: November 2013

The use of bisphosphonates (BPs) is universally accepted in the management of osteoporosis. However, a small percentage of patients have been recognised to develop atypical subtrochanteric fractures of the femur with the prolonged use of BPs. We report a rare case of bilateral insufficiency lesions in the proximal femora, where a major subtrochanteric fracture developed with a minor fall. This was successfully treated with internal fixation using proximal femoral nail.
Epidemiology, identification, treatment and return to play of musculoskeletal-based ice hockey injuries
Authors: LaPrade Robert F , Surowiec Rachel K , Sochanska Ada N , Hentkowski Brandon S , Martin Brandie M , Engebretsen Lars , Wijdicks Coen A
Published: November 2013

Ice hockey is a high contact sport where players are inherently at an increased risk for traumatic and time-loss injury. With its increasing popularity and high incidence of injury, further research is necessary to understand the risks and injuries associated with the sport and to develop performance-based outcome measures to guide return to play. This review, tailored to the practicing sports medicine team physician, focuses on the stepwise identification, treatment, time loss, return to play and subsequent risk of injury for the most common areas of injury: the head, shoulder, hip and knee. Injuries were categorised into upper and lower extremity with an emphasis on glenohumeral and acromioclavicular joint injuries, femoroacetabular impingement, medial collateral ligament tears, and high ankle sprains. With return to play a primary goal for these high-level athletes, recovery in ice hockey becomes a complex issue with efficient protocols tailored to the requirements of the sport vital to the athlete and clinician alike. By reviewing the treatments and sport-specific care, athletes can be better managed with the ultimate goal of returning to their preinjury level of play. Level of Evidence: Level IV.
Inequalities in ventilation tube insertion procedures between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal children in New South Wales, Australia: a data linkage study
Authors: Falster Kathleen , Randall Deborah , Banks Emily , Eades Sandra , Gunasekera Hasantha , Reath Jennifer , Jorm Louisa
Published: November 2013

Objectives

Australian Aboriginal children experience earlier, more frequent and more severe otitis media, particularly in remote communities, than non-Aboriginal children. Insertion of ventilation tubes is the main surgical procedure for otitis media. Our aim was to quantify inequalities in ventilation tube insertion (VTI) procedures between Australian Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal children, and to explore the influence of birth characteristics, socioeconomic background and geographical remoteness on this inequality.

Design

Retrospective cohort study using linked hospital and mortality data from July 2000 to December 2008.

Setting and participants

A whole-of-population cohort of 653 550 children (16 831 Aboriginal and 636 719 non-Aboriginal) born in a New South Wales hospital between 1 July 2000 and 31 December 2007 was included in the analysis.

Outcome measure

First VTI procedure.

Results

VTI rates were lower in Aboriginal compared with non-Aboriginal children (incidence rate (IR), 4.3/1000 person-years; 95% CI 3.8 to 4.8 vs IR 5.8/1000 person-years; 95% CI 5.7 to 5.8). Overall, Aboriginal children were 28% less likely than non-Aboriginal children to have ventilation tubes inserted (age-adjusted and sex-adjusted rate ratios (RRs) 0.72; 95% CI 0.64 to 0.80). After adjusting additionally for geographical remoteness, Aboriginal children were 19% less likely to have ventilation tubes inserted (age-adjusted and sex-adjusted RR 0.81; 95% CI 0.73 to 0.91). After adjusting separately for private patient/health insurance status and area socioeconomic status, there was no significant difference (age-adjusted and sex-adjusted RR 0.96; 95% CI 0.86 to 1.08 and RR 0.93; 95% CI 0.83 to 1.04, respectively). In the fully adjusted model, there were no significant differences in VTI rates between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal children (RR 1.06; 95% CI 0.94 to 1.19).

Conclusions

Despite a much higher prevalence of otitis media, Aboriginal children were less likely to receive VTI procedures than their non-Aboriginal counterparts; this inequality was largely explained by differences in socioeconomic status and geographical remoteness.
Effect of birth weight on the association between necrotising enterocolitis and red blood cell transfusions in ≤1500 g infants
Authors: Elabiad Mohamad Tammam , Harsono Mimily , Talati Ajay J , Dhanireddy Ramasubbareddy
Published: November 2013

Context

Reports evaluating a possible association between necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) and blood transfusion have been predominantly case–control studies. As the possible associations of disease with any variable on which cases and controls have been matched cannot be explored, a cohort study would offer a solution to this problem.

Objective

Our objective was to evaluate the association between exposure to a packed red blood cell (PRBC) transfusion and development of NEC in a cohort where biases of matching are omitted.

Design

In a retrospective cohort, exposed infants were defined as those who received a transfusion and did not develop NEC or developed NEC within 48 h of the transfusion. All others were considered unexposed.

Setting

A single regional perinatal centre in Memphis, Tennessee, USA.

Patients

3060 ≤1500 g birth weights (BW) were included.

Outcome measures

The relative risk of developing NEC after exposure to a PRBC transfusion was measured.

Results

3060 infants were identified. 174 infants (5.7%) developed NEC; 116 of the 174 infants (67%) were exposed. NEC infants had a significantly lower BW (924 vs 1042 g) and required a longer stay on a ventilator (7 vs 2 days). Divided into groups, infants with BW ≤750 , 751–1000 , 1001–1250 g and 1251–1500 g (n=52, 51, 46 and 25, respectively) had a relative risk of 0.14, 0.46, 1.83 and 1.78 (p<0.01, 0.02, 0.07 and 0.17), respectively, to develop NEC after an exposure. Infants with longest ventilator days were also significantly less likely to develop NEC after an exposure; relative risk=0.11 (p<0.01).

Conclusions

Exposure to transfusions was less likely associated with NEC in ≤1000 g infants and remained a risk factor in 1001–1500 infants. BW has to be factored in any study evaluating the association between PRBC transfusions and NEC.
Time to publication for NIHR HTA programme-funded research: a cohort study
Authors: Chinnery Fay , Young Amanda , Goodman Jennie , Ashton-Key Martin , Milne Ruairidh
Published: November 2013

Objective

To assess the time to publication of primary research and evidence syntheses funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment (HTA) Programme published as a monograph inHealth Technology Assessmentand as a journal article in the wider biomedical literature.

Study design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Primary research and evidence synthesis projects funded by the HTA Programme were included in the cohort if they were registered in the NIHR research programmes database and was planned to submit the draft final report for publication inHealth Technology Assessmenton or before 9 December 2011.

Main outcome measures

The median time to publication and publication at 30 months inHealth Technology Assessmentand in an external journal were determined by searching the NIHR research programmes database and HTA Programme website.

Results

Of 458 included projects, 184 (40.2%) were primary research projects and 274 (59.8%) were evidence syntheses. A total of 155 primary research projects had a completion date; the median time to publication was 23 months (26.5 and 35.5 months to publish a monograph and to publish in an external journal, respectively) and 69% were published within 30 months. The median time to publication of HTA-funded trials (n=126) was 24 months and 67.5% were published within 30 months. Among the evidence syntheses with a protocol online date (n=223), the median time to publication was 25.5 months (28 months to publication as a monograph), but only 44.4% of evidence synthesis projects were published in an external journal. 65% of evidence synthesis studies had been published within 30.0 months.

Conclusions

Research funded by the HTA Programme publishes promptly. The importance ofHealth Technology Assessmentwas highlighted as the median time to publication was 9 months shorter for a monograph than an external journal article.
Exercise training improves aerobic capacity, muscle strength, and quality of life in renal transplant recipients
Authors: Riess Kenneth James , Haykowsky Mark , Lawrance Richard , Tomczak Corey R. , Welsh Robert , Lewanczuk Richard , Tymchak Wayne , Haennel Robert G. , Gourishankar Sita
Published: November 2013

Renal transplant recipients (RTR) have reduced peak aerobic capacity, muscle strength, arterial function and an unfavorable cardiovascular disease risk (CVD) profile. This study compared the effects of 12 weeks of supervised endurance and strength training (EST, n = 16) versus usual care (UC, n = 15) on peak aerobic capicity, cardiovascular and skeletal muscle function, CVD risk profile, and quality of life (QOL) in RTR (55 ± 13 years). Peak aerobic capacity and exercise hemodynamics, arterial compliance, 24-h blood pressure, muscle strength, lean body mass, CVD risk score, and QOL were assessed before and after 12 weeks. The change in peak aerobic capacity (EST: 2.6 ± 3.1 vs. UC: –0.5 ± 2.5 mL/(kg·min)), cardiac output (EST: 1.7 ± 2.6 vs. UC: –0.01 ± 0.8 L/min), leg press (EST: 48.7 ± 34.1 vs. UC: –10.5 ± 37.7 kg) and leg extension strength (EST: 9.5 ± 10.3 vs. UC: 0.65 ± 5.5 kg) improved significantly after EST compared with UC. The overall change in QOL improved significantly after 12 weeks of EST compared with UC. No significant difference was found between groups for lean body mass, arterial compliance, 24-h blood pressure or CVD risk score. Supervised EST is an effective intervention to improve peak exercise aerobic capacity and cardiac output, muscle strength and QOL in clinically stable RTR.
The art of ecosystem-based fishery management
Authors: Fogarty Michael J.
Published: November 2013

The perception that ecosystem-based fishery management is too complex and poorly defined remains a primary impediment to its broadscale adoption and implementation. Here, I attempt to offer potential solutions to these concerns. Specifically, I focus on pathways that can contribute to overall simplification by moving toward integrated place-based management plans and away from large numbers of species-based plans; by using multispecies or ecosystem models and indicators that permit the simultaneous and consistent assessment of ecosystem components while also incorporating broader environmental factors; and by consolidating individual administrative and regulatory functions now mostly dealt with on a species-by-species basis into a more integrated framework for system-wide decision-making. The approach focuses on emergent properties at the community and ecosystem levels and seeks to identify simpler modeling and analysis tools for evaluation. Adoption of ecosystem-based management procedures relying on simple decision rules and metrics is advocated. It is recommended that we replace static concepts for individual species focusing on maximum sustainable yield with a dynamic ecosystem yield framework that involves setting system-wide reference points along with constraints to protect individual species, habitats, and nontarget organisms in a dynamic environmental setting.
A simple microstructure return model explaining microstructure noise and Epps effects
Authors: Saichev A. , Sornette D.
Published: November 2013

We present a novel simple microstructure model of financial returns that combines (i) the well-known ARFIMA process applied to tick-by-tick returns, (ii) the bid-ask bounce effect, (iii) the fat tail structure of the distribution of returns and (iv) the non-Poissonian statistics of inter-trade intervals. This model allows us to explain both qualitatively and quantitatively important stylized facts observed in the statistics of both microstructure and macrostructure returns, including the short-ranged correlation of returns, the long-ranged correlations of absolute returns, the microstructure noise and Epps effects. According to the microstructure noise effect, volatility is a decreasing function of the time-scale used to estimate it. The Epps effect states that cross correlations between asset returns are increasing functions of the time-scale at which the returns are estimated. The microstructure noise is explained as the result of the negative return correlations inherent in the definition of the bid-ask bounce component (ii). In the presence of a genuine correlation between the returns of two assets, the Epps effect is due to an average statistical overlap of the momentum of the returns of the two assets defined over a finite time-scale in the presence of the long memory process (i).
A NOTE ON THE EFFECT OF THE COSMOLOGICAL CONSTANT ON THE BENDING OF LIGHT
Authors: HAMMAD FAYÇAL
Published: December 2013

We take another look at the equations behind the description of light bending in a Universe with a cosmological constant. We show that even within the impact parameter entering into the photon's differential equation, and which is defined here with exclusive reference to the beam of light as it bends around the central mass, lies the contribution of the cosmological constant. The latter is shown to enter in a novel way into the equation. When the latter is solved our approach implies, beyond the first two orders in the mass-term and the lowest-order in the cosmological constant, a slightly different expression for the bending angle from what is previously found in the literature.
MODEL INDEPENDENT CONSTRAINTS OF THE AVERAGED NEUTRINO MASSES REVISITED
Authors: FUKUYAMA TAKESHI , NISHIURA HIROYUKI
Published: December 2013

Averaged neutrino masses defined by [Formula: see text] are reanalyzed using up-to-date observed MNS parameters and neutrino masses by the neutrino oscillation experiments together with the cosmological constraint on neutrino masses. The values of 〈mν〉ab are model-independently evaluated in terms of effective neutrino mass defined by [Formula: see text] which is observable in the single beta decay. We obtain lower bound for 〈mν〉ee in the inverted hierarchy (IH) case, 17 meV ≤〈mν〉ee and one for 〈mν〉τμ in the normal hierarchy (NH) case, 5 meV ≤〈mν〉τμ. We also obtain that all the averaged masses 〈mν〉ab have upper bounds which are at most 80 meV.
The Acoustic Behaviors of Dual Layered Nonwoven Absorbers: From Model Building to Experiment Verification
Authors: Liu Jianli , Liu Xinjin , Bao Wei , Wang Shuangshan , Chen Longmin , Chen Zhe , Zuo Baoqi , Gao Weidong
Published: November 2013

Nonwovens are ideal materials for use as noise control elements because of their unique physical structure and special acoustic behaviors, especially when their structures are complicatedly designed. In this paper, we first deduce a sound absorption model for dual-layered porous nonwovens by extending the Zwikker and Kosten theory. Then a theoretical analysis and a numerical simulation of the impact of thickness and porosity of outer and inner layers on the sound absorption coefficient are followed by an experiment designed to compare the calculated sound absorption coefficients and the measured ones. Experiment results indicate that the measured and the calculated sound absorption coefficients are very similar in trend with change of thickness, porosity and sound frequency, apart from the obvious difference at low frequency. Finally, the main reasons for the differences between the theoretic data and the experimental ones are also explored.
OPTIMAL ERROR BOUND AND A GENERALIZED TIKHONOV REGULARIZATION METHOD FOR IDENTIFYING AN UNKNOWN SOURCE IN THE POISSON EQUATION
Authors: QIAN AI-LIN , MAO JIAN-FENG
Published: December 2013

In this note we prove a stability estimate for an inverse heat source problem. Based on the obtained stability estimate, we present a generalized Tikhonov regularization method and obtain the error estimate. Numerical experiment shows that the generalized Tikhonov regularization works well.
ASSESSING PREFERENCES FOR COMPENSATION PACKAGES USING THE DISCRETE CHOICE METHOD: THE CASE OF THE BOLSA FLORESTA PROGRAM IN AMAZONAS, BRAZIL
Authors: MOHAMMED ESSAM YASSIN , PORRAS INA , GRIEG-GRAN MARYANNE , LIMA LUIZA , SOARES AFRIANO , NETO JOÃO TEZZA , VIANA VIRGILIO
Published: December 2013

Natural ecosystems, including forest ecosystems, continue to be degraded or converted at an alarming rate. To complement or substitute regulatory approaches to ecosystem management, market-based instruments such as "payments for ecosystem services" (PES) have been introduced and are gaining popularity. One of the prominent PES schemes in the world is the Bolsa Floresta Program (BFP) in the State of Amazonas, Brazil. The BFP was established by the Government of the State of Amazonas through its Secretariat for Environment and Sustainable Development in 2006 and is implemented by the Amazonas Sustainable Foundation. The BFP, which is a voluntary program to reduce deforestation and promote sustainable development by rewarding the communities for changing their land use practices, has four main components: the Bolsa Floresta Income; Bolsa Floresta Social; Bolsa Floresta Family; and Bolsa Floresta Association. A study was conducted to assess the preferences of the participating households in three reserves, namely: Rio Negro, Juma, and Uatumã, for different payment packages with varying combinations of the bolsas relative to the status quo option. The discrete choice method and an open ended question format were used to elicit the preferences of the participant households. The discrete choice model results showed that the majority of the respondents (about 80 per cent) in the three reserves chose an alternative which offered a 20 per cent increase in direct cash payments to households as their most preferred alternative. On the other hand, the majority of respondents who were subjected to open question stated that they would like to see an increase in benefits that fall under the Bolsa Floresta Social category.
WHAT INFLUENCES VALUED ECOSYSTEM COMPONENT SELECTION FOR CUMULATIVE EFFECTS IN IMPACT ASSESSMENT?
Authors: OLAGUNJU AYODELE , GUNN JILL
Published: December 2013

Despite the central role of valued ecosystem component (VEC) selection to project impact assessment (IA) and cumulative effects assessment (CEA), little is known about what influences it. To potentially improve the efficacy of CEA, a look into the "black box" of VEC selection is warranted. An investigation of eleven road construction project IAs in Canada completed between 1995 and 2011 via document analysis and interviews with project informants reveals a heavy reliance on residual effects analysis for CEA VEC selection, such that project VEC list are often exactly or nearly the same as CEA VEC lists. The process of VEC selection is highly subjective, lacking in scientific inputs, and not as sensitive to cumulative effects issues as it perhaps should be given the nature of road projects. The study concludes that a "residual effects analysis—plus" approach to CEA VEC selection is desirable, along with explicit, possibly sector-specific, guidance.
EXPANDING ENVIRONMENTAL EMPHASES IN WATER RESOURCES PLANNING
Authors: CANTER LARRY , CHAWLA MANROOP , SWOR TOM
Published: December 2013

Numerous water resources planning agencies exist within countries and their states or provinces, or within river basin commissions and local areas. Such planning includes projects involving waterway navigation, hydroelectric power generation, flood risk management, water supply, and ecosystem restoration. Although planning has existed for many decades, new environmental challenges are being identified and responsive methods are being developed. This review cites more than 75 journal articles and reports which are related to emerging frameworks and methods. The most frequently cited information source is the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The reader is encouraged to explore these general and topical references and to utilise them in the context of their water resources planning efforts. It is important to note that not all references will be relevant to local unique conditions and challenges. Addressing these expanding emphases requires flexibility within existing planning processes and collaboration with multiple stakeholder groups. Examples of newer methods summarized herein include cumulative effects assessment and management, conceptual models, use of indicators and indices, managing downstream flows, addressing climate change, evaluation of ecosystem services, and post-EIS project monitoring and adaptive management to expand the knowledge base of planners and to adjust project operational patterns to minimise undesirable consequences.
Sign changes of Fourier coefficients of half-integral weight cusp forms
Authors: Meher Jaban , Ram Murty M.
Published: November 2013

We prove a quantitative result for the number of sign changes of the Fourier coefficients of half-integral weight cusp forms in the Kohnen plus space, provided the Fourier coefficients are real numbers.
Influence of absorption in linear polarization imaging of melanoma tissues
Authors: Li Dongzhi , He Honghui , Zeng Nan , Xie Weidong , Liao Ran , Wu Jian , He Yonghong , Ma Hui
Published: November 2013

The contrast mechanism of different polarization imaging techniques for melanoma in mouse skin is studied using both experiments and Monte Carlo simulations. Total intensity, linear polarization difference imaging (DPI), degree of polarization imaging (DOPI) and rotating linear polarization imaging (RLPI) are applied and the relative contrasts of these polarization imaging methods between the normal and cancerous tissues are compared. A two-layer absorption-scattering model is proposed to explain the contrast mechanism of the polarization imaging for melanoma. By taking into account of both scattering of symmetrical and asymmetrical scatterers and absorption of inter-scatterer medium, the two-layer model reproduces the relative contrasts for polarization images observed in experiments. The simulation results also show that, the parameters of polarization imaging change more dramatically with the variation of absorption in the bottom layer than the top layer.
Holocene erosion at the summit of Ingleborough, Yorkshire Dales, northern England, indicated by cosmogenic
10
Be surface exposure dating
Authors: Wilson Peter , Lord Tom , Schnabel Christoph , Vincent Peter J.
Published: December 2013

Four gritstone outcrops around the summit rim of Ingleborough in the Yorkshire Dales, northern England, have yielded early to mid-Holocene cosmogenic
10
Be surface exposure ages, ranging from 10.61 ± 0.53 ka to 6.84 ± 0.35 ka. Taken at face value, the ages indicate that the outcrops became exposed to cosmic radiation at different times and consequently were not necessarily exposed as a result of the same single process at each site. Erosion of overlying gritstone debris during periods of climatic deterioration, during construction of a stone rampart, and during rock-slope failure may have all contributed to the exposure ages of these surfaces. Some of the ages may be compound in that a component of their isotope signal was acquired prior to the complete removal of the former debris cover. Although interpretation of the data set involves some speculation, the ages and topographic context of the samples indicate that the processes and timing of mountain top erosion may vary at small spatial scales.