bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low specific absorption rate microstrip patch antenna for cellular phone applications
Authors: Faruque Mohammad Rashed Iqbal , Hossain Md Ikbal , Islam Mohammad Tariqul
Published: August 2015

The aim of this study is to design a new microstrip‐fed patch antenna for cell phone applications. The antenna design is composed of slots and Flame Retardant 4 dielectric substrate fed by a partial ground plane and a microstrip line. The user's effects on antenna performances are also analysed using standard specific anthropomorphic mannequin head phantom. The specific absorption rate (SAR) values of the proposed antenna are evaluated for different frequency bands considering cheek position of talk mode. The proposed antenna has an impedance bandwidth of 230.4 MHz (0.725–0.95 GHz, lower band), and 522.24 MHz (1.74–2.25 GHz, upper band), which can cover global system for mobile (GSM) 900 MHz, digital communication system 1800 MHz, personal communications service 1900 MHz, GSM 1900 MHz, and universal mobile telecommunications service 2100 MHz bands. Moreover, the proposed antenna produces lower SAR values in the human head than that of a dipole antenna, helical antenna, and planar inverted‐F antenna.
Fast transformation from time series to visibility graphs
Authors: Lan Xin , Mo Hongming , Chen Shiyu , Liu Qi , Deng Yong
Published: August 2015

The visibility graph method is used to transform time series into complex networks. In this letter, a fast transform algorithm is proposed for obtaining a visibility graph. Based on the strategy of “divide & conquer,” the time complexity of the proposed algorithm is raised to O(n log n), which is more efficient than the previous basic algorithm whose time complexity is O(n2).
Carrier quenching in InGaP/GaAs double heterostructures
Authors: Wells Nathan P. , Driskell Travis U. , Hudson Andrew I. , LaLumondiere Stephen D. , Lotshaw William T. , Forbes David V. , Hubbard Seth M.
Published: August 2015

Photoluminescence measurements on a series of GaAs double heterostructures demonstrate a rapid quenching of carriers in the GaAs layer at irradiance levels below 0.1 W/cm2 in samples with a GaAs-on-InGaP interface. These results indicate the existence of non-radiative defect centers at or near the GaAs-on-InGaP interface, consistent with previous reports showing the intermixing of In and P when free As impinges on the InGaP surface during growth. At low irradiance, these defect centers can lead to sub-ns carrier lifetimes. The defect centers involved in the rapid carrier quenching can be saturated at higher irradiance levels and allow carrier lifetimes to reach hundreds of nanoseconds. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a nearly three orders of magnitude decrease in carrier lifetime at low irradiance in a simple double heterostructure. Carrier quenching occurs at irradiance levels near the integrated Air Mass Zero (AM0) and Air Mass 1.5 (AM1.5) solar irradiance. Additionally, a lower energy photoluminescence band is observed both at room and cryogenic temperatures. The temperature and time dependence of the lower energy luminescence is consistent with the presence of an unintentional InGaAs or InGaAsP quantum well that forms due to compositional mixing at the GaAs-on-InGaP interface. Our results are of general interest to the photovoltaic community as InGaP is commonly used as a window layer in GaAs based solar cells.
Ionizing particle detection based on phononic crystals
Authors: Aly Arafa H. , Mehaney Ahmed , Eissa Mostafa F.
Published: August 2015

Most conventional radiation detectors are based on electronic or photon collections. In this work, we introduce a new and novel type of ionizing particle detector based on phonon collection. Helium ion radiation treats tumors with better precision. There are nine known isotopes of helium, but only helium-3 and helium-4 are stable. Helium-4 is formed in fusion reactor technology and in enormous quantities during Big Bang nucleo-synthesis. In this study, we introduce a technique for helium-4 ion detection (sensing) based on the innovative properties of the new composite materials known as phononic crystals (PnCs). PnCs can provide an easy and cheap technique for ion detection compared with conventional methods. PnC structures commonly consist of a periodic array of two or more materials with different elastic properties. The two materials are polymethyl-methacrylate and polyethylene polymers. The calculations showed that the energies lost to target phonons are maximized at 1 keV helium-4 ion energy. There is a correlation between the total phonon energies and the transmittance of PnC structures. The maximum transmission for phonons due to the passage of helium-4 ions was found in the case of making polyethylene as a first layer in the PnC structure. Therefore, the concept of ion detection based on PnC structure is achievable.
Monte Carlo random walk simulation of electron transport in confined porous TiO2 as a promising candidate for photo-electrode of nano-crystalline solar cells
Authors: Javadi M. , Abdi Y.
Published: August 2015

Monte Carlo continuous time random walk simulation is used to study the effects of confinement on electron transport, in porous TiO2. In this work, we have introduced a columnar structure instead of the thick layer of porous TiO2 used as anode in conventional dye solar cells. Our simulation results show that electron diffusion coefficient in the proposed columnar structure is significantly higher than the diffusion coefficient in the conventional structure. It is shown that electron diffusion in the columnar structure depends both on the cross section area of the columns and the porosity of the structure. Also, we demonstrate that such enhanced electron diffusion can be realized in the columnar photo-electrodes with a cross sectional area of ∼1 μm2 and porosity of 55%, by a simple and low cost fabrication process. Our results open up a promising approach to achieve solar cells with higher efficiencies by engineering the photo-electrode structure.
High performance planar p-i-n perovskite solar cells with crown-ether functionalized fullerene and LiF as double cathode buffer layers
Authors: Liu Xiaodong , Lei Ming , Zhou Yi , Song Bo , Li Yongfang
Published: August 2015

Double cathode buffer layers (CBLs) composed of fullerene derivative functionalized with a crown-ether end group in its side chain (denoted as PCBC) and a LiF layer were introduced between the PCBM acceptor layer and the top cathode in planar p-i-n perovskite solar cells (pero-SCs) based on CH3NH3PbI3−XClX. The devices with the PCBC/LiF double CBLs showed significant improvements in power conversion efficiency (PCE) and long-term stability when compared to the device with LiF single CBL. Through optimizing the spin-coating speed of PCBC, a maximum PCE of 15.53% has been achieved, which is approximately 15% higher than that of the device with single LiF CBL. The remarkable improvement in PCE can be attributed to the formation of a better ohmic contact in the CBL between PCBC and LiF/Al electrode arising from the dipole moment of PCBC, leading to the enhanced fill factor and short-circuit current density (Jsc). Besides the PCE, the long-term stability of the devices with PCBC interlayer is also superior to that of the device with LiF single CBL, which is due to the more effective protection for the perovskite/PCBM interface.
Coupling and tuning of modal frequencies in direct current biased microelectromechanical systems arrays
Authors: Kambali Prashant N. , Swain Gyanadutta , Pandey Ashok Kumar , Buks Eyal , Gottlieb Oded
Published: August 2015

Understanding the coupling of different modal frequencies and their tuning mechanisms has become essential to design multi-frequency MEMS devices. In this work, we fabricate a MEMS beam with fixed boundaries separated from two side electrodes and a bottom electrode. Subsequently, we perform experiments to obtain the frequency variation of in-plane and out-of-plane mechanical modes of the microbeam with respect to both DC bias and laser heating. We show that the frequencies of the two modes coincide at a certain DC bias, which in turn can also be varied due to temperature. Subsequently, we develop a theoretical model to predict the variation of the two modes and their coupling due to a variable gap between the microbeam and electrodes, initial tension, and fringing field coefficients. Finally, we discuss the influence of frequency tuning parameters in arrays of 3, 33, and 40 microbeams, respectively. It is also found that the frequency bandwidth of a microbeam array can be increased to as high as 25 kHz for a 40 microbeam array with a DC bias of 80 V.
High temperature coefficient of resistance for a ferroelectric tunnel junction
Authors: Zhao Xiaolin , Wang Jianlu , Tian Bobo , Liu Bolu , Wang Xudong , Huang Hai , Zou Yuhong , Sun Shuo , Lin Tie , Han Li , Sun Jinglan , Meng Xiangjian , Chu Junhao
Published: August 2015

An infrared detector is proposed that is based on a ferroelectric tunnel junction (FTJ) working under bolometer-like principles. Electron tunneling, either direct or indirect, through the ferroelectric barrier depends on the temperature of the devices. During tunneling, infrared radiation alters the polarization of the ferroelectric film via pyroelectricity, resulting in a change in the barrier height of the tunnel junction. A high temperature coefficient of resistance of up to −3.86% was observed at room temperature. These results show that the FTJ structure has potential to be adapted for use in uncooled infrared detectors.
Secondary electron imaging of monolayer materials inside a transmission electron microscope
Authors: Cretu Ovidiu , Lin Yung-Chang , Suenaga Kazutomo
Published: August 2015

A scanning transmission electron microscope equipped with a backscattered and secondary electron detector is shown capable to image graphene and hexagonal boron nitride monolayers. Secondary electron contrasts of the two lightest monolayer materials are clearly distinguished from the vacuum level. A signal difference between these two materials is attributed to electronic structure differences, which will influence the escape probabilities of the secondary electrons. Our results show that the secondary electron signal can be used to distinguish between the electronic structures of materials with atomic layer sensitivity, enhancing its applicability as a complementary signal in the analytical microscope.
A planar Al-Si Schottky barrier metal–oxide–semiconductor field effect transistor operated at cryogenic temperatures
Authors: Purches W. E. , Rossi A. , Zhao R. , Kafanov S. , Duty T. L. , Dzurak A. S. , Rogge S. , Tettamanzi G. C.
Published: August 2015

Schottky Barrier-MOSFET technology offers intriguing possibilities for cryogenic nano-scale devices, such as Si quantum devices and superconducting devices. We present experimental results on a device architecture where the gate electrode is self-aligned with the device channel and overlaps the source and drain electrodes. This facilitates a sub-5 nm gap between the source/drain and channel, and no spacers are required. At cryogenic temperatures, such devices function as p-MOS Tunnel FETs, as determined by the Schottky barrier at the Al-Si interface, and as a further advantage, fabrication processes are compatible with both CMOS and superconducting logic technology.
Magnetic leverage effects in amorphous SmCo/CoAlZr heterostructures
Authors: Procter R. A. , Magnus F. , Andersson G. , Sánchez-Hanke C. , Hjörvarsson B. , Hase T. P. A.
Published: August 2015

Although magnetic heterostructures are the basis of many magnetic technologies, the mechanisms involved in magnetization reversals in such structures are not fully understood, especially in amorphous multilayers. Here, we report on the SmCo/CoAlZr system and exploit resonant magnetic x-ray scattering to probe the element specific magnetization reversals. When combined into a tri-layer structure, two different switching fields and reversal mechanisms are observed for the Sm and Co sub-lattices. We argue that the decoupling of the sub-lattices arises from the local distribution of atomic species within the amorphous matrix leading to a strong magnetic leverage effect and exchange pinning. The decoupling arises due to strong interactions between regions of high Co density which span the interface. The relatively sparse interactions between Sm and Co induce a localized pinning of the Co-rich areas, resulting in an exchange bias in minor loops and an enhanced coercivity.
Influence of interfacial oxide on the optical properties of single layer CdTe/CdS quantum dots in porous silicon scaffolds
Authors: Gaur Girija , Koktysh Dmitry S. , Fleetwood Daniel M. , Weller Robert A. , Reed Robert A. , Weiss Sharon M.
Published: August 2015

Using a combination of continuous wave and time-resolved spectroscopy, we study the effects of interfacial conditions on the radiative lifetimes and photoluminescence intensities of sub-monolayer colloidal CdTe/CdS quantum dots (QDs) embedded in a three-dimensional porous silicon (PSi) scaffold. The PSi matrix was thermally oxidized under different conditions to change the interfacial oxide thickness. QDs embedded in a PSi matrix with ∼0.4 nm of interfacial oxide exhibited reduced photoluminescence intensity and nearly five times shorter radiative lifetimes (∼16 ns) compared to QDs immobilized within completely oxidized, porous silica (PSiO2) frameworks (∼78 ns). The exponential dependence of QD lifetime on interfacial oxide thickness in the PSi scaffolds suggests charge transfer plays an important role in the exciton dynamics.
Employment patterns of Notre Dame graduate physiotherapists 2006–12: targeting areas of workforce need
Authors: Bacopanos Eleni , Edgar Susan
Published: August 2015

Objectives
The Australian physiotherapy workforce is changing both in demographics and service needs. Physiotherapy curriculum and clinical education focus is ideally based on up-to-date knowledge of this changing workforce. The aim of the present study was to determine the employment patterns of physiotherapy graduates from The University of Notre Dame Australia (Notre Dame).

Methods
An online survey was conducted of Notre Dame physiotherapy graduates (2006–12) with a 50% response rate (n = 157).

Results
Survey results established the employment location, employment status, healthcare sector, area of practice, salary and employment history of Notre Dame graduates. The results highlighted links between curriculum, clinical placements and workforce areas, with the spread of workforce directly linked to focuses in the undergraduate curriculum.

Conclusion
The present study highlights the effect of directing undergraduate curriculum and clinical placement experiences towards areas of workforce need. The findings identify the importance of producing graduates equipped to meet the changing service needs of the healthcare industry.

What is known about the topic?
No previous studies have been conducted on the employment patterns of Notre Dame physiotherapy graduates and specifically the impact of targeting curriculum and clinical placements towards areas of workforce need.

What does this paper add?
Through a self-administered survey design, the present study demonstrated that Notre Dame physiotherapy graduates have increased uptake in areas targeted within the curriculum, specifically geriatrics, paediatrics and rural health. Although graduates were more attracted to the rural health setting, they were not retained.

What are the implications for practitioners?
The present study informs educational institutions and workforce planners on the importance of linking curriculum, clinical placements and workforce to develop a sustainable workforce adaptable to clinical settings and areas.
Grevillea (Proteaceae) seed coats contain inhibitors for seed germination
Authors: Ma Xuanli , Guo Jingnan , Han Xinyan , Yan Guijun
Published: August 2015

The purpose of this research was to examine the effect of the seed coat on seed dormancy in Grevillea (Proteaceae) species, and to further investigate the existence of germination inhibitors in Grevillea seed coat extracts. Seed dormancy of 18 Grevillea accessions involving 17 species was investigated: results indicated that removal of seed coat increased seed germination from 0–6% (intact seeds) to 83–100% for the Grevillea accessions and removal of half seed coat resulted in no increase in seed germination. Grevillea seed coat extracts reduced germination of barley, canola, lupin and ryegrass seeds by 48, 57, 10 and 38% respectively. The extracts also reduced seedling growth of the above four species. Ryegrass seeds showed no germination on the 3rd day after imbibition in the presence of Grevillea seed coat extracts compared with 88% germination for the control. Thus, our results showed that seed coat is a major factor determining Grevillea seed dormancy and removal of seed coat dramatically increased seed germination. Grevillea seed coat extracts reduced seed germination and seedling growth of other species. We conclude that there is exogenous seed dormancy in Grevillea species and the chemical(s) in the seed coat is a major factor inhibiting seed germination.
Clostridium difficile infection: an Australian clinical perspective
Authors: Jenkin Grant A
Published: August 2015

The scale of the problem now posed by Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is becoming frighteningly clear. Since 2001, a dramatic increase in the incidence and severity of CDI has occurred, particularly, in North America, the United Kingdom and Europe, associated with the emergence of a fluoroquinolone-resistant clone known as restriction endonuclease type BI, pulsed field type NAP1 or PCR ribotype 027 (RT027) Clostridium difficile (CD)1–3. CD is now the most commonly identified nosocomial pathogen in the USA4–6 and in 2011 there were approximately 450 000 incident cases of CDI in the USA and 29 300 deaths at day 30 post diagnosis6. Using an estimated attributable mortality rate of 50%, approximately 15 000 deaths due to CDI occurred in the USA in 2011.
Fmr1
deficiency promotes age-dependent alterations in the cortical synaptic proteome
Authors: Tang Bin , Wang Tingting , Wan Huida , Han Li , Qin Xiaoyan , Zhang Yaoyang , Wang Jian , Yu Chunlei , Berton Fulvia , Francesconi Walter , Yates John R. , Vanderklish Peter W. , Liao Lujian
Published: August 2015

Significance

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a frequent mental disorder characterized by intellectual disability and other symptoms including autism. The disease gene-encoded protein FMRP regulates activity-dependent translation of a large number of mRNAs in neurons. We used quantitative mass spectrometry to systematically compare protein expression in neocortical synaptic fractions between
Fmr1
(fragile X mental retardation 1) knockout (KO) and wild-type mice during adolescence and adulthood. We discovered an upregulation of a large number of synaptic proteins in young KO mice but not in adult ones. Many of the upregulated proteins are correlated with an increased protein synthesis in KO neurons. This study provides a greatly expanded view of protein-level changes in FXS and identifies a previously unrecognized developmental dynamics in FXS pathogenesis.
Small RNA-based feedforward loop with AND-gate logic regulates extrachromosomal DNA transfer in
Salmonella
Authors: Papenfort Kai , Espinosa Elena , Casadesús Josep , Vogel Jörg
Published: August 2015

Significance

Horizontal gene transfer is a major force in bacterial evolution, and a widespread mechanism involves conjugative plasmids. Albeit potentially beneficial at the population level, plasmid transfer is a burden for individual cells. Therefore, assembly of the conjugation machinery is strictly controlled, especially under stress. Here, we describe an RNA-based regulatory circuit in host–plasmid communication where a regulatory RNA (RprA) inhibits plasmid transfer through posttranscriptional activation of two genes. Because one of the activated factors (σ
S
) is necessary for transcription of the other (RicI), RprA forms the centerpiece of a posttranscriptional feedforward loop with AND-gate logic for gene activation. We also show that the synthesis of RicI, a membrane protein, inhibits plasmid transfer, presumably by interference with pilus assembly.
Culvert Replacement Enhances Connectivity of Stream Fish Communities in a Michigan Drainage Network
Authors: Evans Nathan T. , Riley Christopher W. , Lamberti Gary A.
Published: August 2015

Culverts installed at road–stream intersections are pervasive in many watersheds and can function as dispersal barriers for aquatic organisms, thereby fragmenting watersheds. We hypothesized that the replacement of culverts with bridges would restore ecosystem connectivity via remediation of dispersal barriers. Our study objectives were to (1) characterize fish assemblages in three Michigan streams before and after culvert replacement by bridges, and (2) determine the effect of fish sample size on our ability to quantify fish assemblage similarity. To address the first objective, we surveyed the fish assemblages of the three study streams (upstream and downstream of the culvert) prior to, 1 year after, and 3 years after culvert removal via standardized electrofishing. The similarity of upstream and downstream fish assemblages increased by 9–25% following culvert removal. Relative fish abundance decreased but biomass of fishes remained constant, indicating a shift in size structure toward larger individuals. To address the second objective, we conducted a bootstrap analysis for all samples. Large sample sizes of fishes (150–350 individuals) were necessary to accurately and precisely measure community similarity. However, changes in community similarity could be detected with relatively small samples (50–100 individuals). Our study illustrates the ecological potential of culvert removal for restoring stream connectivity.
Consequences of Emergence Timing for the Growth and Relative Survival of Steelhead Fry from Naturally Spawning Wild and Hatchery Parents
Authors: Jones Marissa H. , Seeb James E. , Warheit Kenneth I. , Seamons Todd R. , Quinn Thomas P. , Seeb Lisa W.
Published: August 2015

For many fishes, reproducing early in the year may present tradeoffs for the offspring: the drawbacks associated with harsh environmental conditions may be offset by advantages in competition for food and space. We investigated this tradeoff in a system where hatchery‐origin steelhead Oncorhynchus mykiss were bred to spawn about 4 months earlier than wild‐origin fish. Hatchery‐origin adults were released into the wild and spawned in common with wild steelhead. Naturally spawned offspring from these matings were assigned to hatchery, wild, and hybrid lineages by using a panel of 96 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms. We then evaluated whether fry abundance, body size and condition, and geographic distribution differed based on parental lineage. The observed mixture proportions were 0.007 hatchery‐lineage, 0.289 hybrid, and 0.704 wild‐lineage juveniles, despite the predominance of hatchery‐origin parents. There were significant differences in FL (hatchery > hybrid > wild) but no difference in body condition. We modeled the emergence dates of the sampled fry and estimated that 96.0% of wild‐lineage fish emerged after the arrival of temperate spring conditions (reduced flows and warmer temperatures) compared with 80.4% of hybrids and 41.2% of hatchery‐lineage fish. We hypothesize that the low abundance of pure hatchery‐lineage fry may be due to a mismatch between the timing of breeding by the parents and suitable river conditions, resulting in low survival and physical displacement of hatchery‐lineage fry from the system. Thus, the advantages of early emergence and large size associated with hatchery origin did not mitigate the disadvantages of early spawning in this case.
Oxidative DNA damage caused by pulsed discharge with cavitation on the bactericidal function
Authors: Kudo Ken-ichi , Ito Hironori , Ihara Satoshi , Terato Hiroaki
Published: August 2015

Plasma-based techniques are expected to have practical use for wastewater purification with a potential for killing contaminated microorganisms and degrading recalcitrant materials. In the present study, we analysed oxidative DNA damage in bacterial cells treated by the plasma to unveil its mechanisms in the bactericidal process. Escherichia coli cell suspension was exposed to the plasma induced by applying an alternating-current voltage of about 1 kV with bubbling formed by water-cavitation, termed pulsed discharge with cavitation. Chromosomal DNA damage, such as double strand break (DSB) and oxidative base lesions, increased proportionally with the applied energy, as determined by electrophoretic and mass spectrometric analyses. Among the base lesions identified, the yields of 8-hydroxyguanine (8-OH-G) and 5-hydroxycytosine (5-OH-C) in chromosomal DNA increased by up to 4- and 15-fold, respectively, compared to untreated samples. The progeny DNA sequences, derived from plasmid DNA exposed to the plasma, indicated that the production rate of 5-OH-C exceeded that of 8-OH-G, as G:C to A:T transitions accounted for 65% of all base changes, but only a few G:C to T:A transversions were observed. The cell viabilities of E. coli cells decreased in direct proportion to increases in the applied energy. Therefore, the plasma-induced bactericidal mechanism appears to relate to oxidative damage caused to bacterial DNA. These results were confirmed by observing the generation of hydroxyl radicals and hydrogen peroxide molecules following the plasma exposure. We also compared our results with the plasma to those obtained with 137Cs γ-rays, as a well-known ROS generator to confirm the DNA-damaging mechanism involved.
Atypical protein kinase C induces cell transformation by disrupting Hippo/Yap signaling
Authors: Archibald Andrew , Al-Masri Maia , Liew-Spilger Alyson , McCaffrey Luke
Published: August 2015

Epithelial cells are major sites of malignant transformation. Atypical protein kinase C (aPKC) isoforms are overexpressed and activated in many cancer types. Using normal, highly polarized epithelial cells (MDCK and NMuMG), we report that aPKC gain of function overcomes contact inhibited growth and is sufficient for a transformed epithelial phenotype. In 2D cultures, aPKC induced cells to grow as stratified epithelia, whereas cells grew as solid spheres of nonpolarized cells in 3D culture. aPKC associated with Mst1/2, which uncoupled Mst1/2 from Lats1/2 and promoted nuclear accumulation of Yap1. Of importance, Yap1 was necessary for aPKC-mediated overgrowth but did not restore cell polarity defects, indicating that the two are separable events. In MDCK cells, Yap1 was sequestered to cell–cell junctions by Amot, and aPKC overexpression resulted in loss of Amot expression and a spindle-like cell phenotype. Reexpression of Amot was sufficient to restore an epithelial cobblestone appearance, Yap1 localization, and growth control. In contrast, the effect of aPKC on Hippo/Yap signaling and overgrowth in NMuMG cells was independent of Amot. Finally, increased expression of aPKC in human cancers strongly correlated with increased nuclear accumulation of Yap1, indicating that the effect of aPKC on transformed growth by deregulating Hippo/Yap1 signaling may be clinically relevant.
Influence of Roasting Temperature of Barley on the Powder Characteristics and Preparation of Tea
Authors: Montanuci Flávia D. , Jorge Luiz Mario M. , Jorge Regina M. M.
Published: August 2015

Roasting improves the palatability of barley grains. After processing, the resulting powder is widely used to elaborate beverages such as coffee and tea. The objective of this research was to evaluate the influence of roasting on the characteristics of barley grains and the derived powder. The kinetics of release of soluble solids during the powder hydration at 80°C, performed to produce beverages such as tea, was also determined. In addition, the influence of roasting and rehydration temperatures on the physical composition of the beverages and on the release of soluble solids was investigated. After roasting, barley was ground and sieved. The powder retained in the 0.425 mm sieve was used in the analyses. Owing to roasting, the average protein content of barley increased from 10.56 to 12.88 g/100 g, and the sugar content decreased from 730 to 12.99 mg/mL, which is ascribed to the high process temperature. The phenolic compounds increased from 105.33 to 253.07 mg of ferulic acid per milliliter between the nonprocessed sample and the one roasted at 240°C, respectively. The antioxidant activity decreased with the roasting temperature rise (160–240°C) from 11.60 to 5.30 μg of 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl per milliliter. In the production of beverages such as tea, higher roasting temperatures led to a greater release of soluble solids in water.
Phylogenetic, Morphological, and Pathogenic Characterization ofAlternariaSpecies Associated with Fruit Rot of Blueberry in California
Authors: Zhu X. Q. , Xiao C. L.
Published: August 2015

Fruit rot caused by Alternaria spp. is one of the most important factors affecting the postharvest quality and shelf life of blueberry fruit. The aims of this study were to characterize Alternaria isolates using morphological and molecular approaches and test their pathogenicity to blueberry fruit. Alternaria spp. isolates were collected from decayed blueberry fruit in the Central Valley of California during 2012 and 2013. In total, 283 isolates were obtained and five species of Alternaria, including Alternaria alternata, A. tenuissima, A. arborescens, A. infectoria, and A. rosae, were identified based on DNA sequences of the plasma membrane ATPase, Alt a1 and Calmodulin gene regions in combination with morphological characters of the culture and sporulation. Of the 283 isolates, 61.5% were identified as A. alternata, 32.9% were A. arborescens, 5.0% were A. tenuissima, and only one isolate of A. infectoria and one isolate of A. rosae were found. These fungi were able to grow at temperatures from 0 to 35°C, and mycelial growth was arrested at 40°C. Optimal radial growth occurred between 20 to 30°C. Pathogenicity tests showed that all five Alternaria spp. were pathogenic on blueberry fruit at 0, 4, and 20°C, with A. alternata, A. arborescens, and A. tenuissima being the most virulent species, followed by A. infectoria and A. rosae. Previously A. tenuissima has been reported to be the primary cause of Alternaria fruit rot of blueberry worldwide. Our results indicated that the species composition of Alternaria responsible for Alternaria fruit rot in blueberry can be dependent on geographical region. A. alternata, A. arborescens, A. infectoria, and A. rosae are reported for the first time on blueberry in California. This is also the first report of A. infectoria and A. rosae infecting blueberry fruit.
Testicular torsion and the acute scrotum: current emergency management
Authors: Ta Anthony , D’Arcy Frank T. , Hoag Nathan , D’Arcy John P. , Lawrentschuk Nathan
Published: August 2015

The acute scrotum is a challenging condition for the treating emergency physician requiring consideration of a number of possible diagnoses including testicular torsion. Prompt recognition of torsion and exclusion of other causes may lead to organ salvage, avoiding the devastating functional and psychological issues of testicular loss and minimizing unnecessary exploratory surgeries. This review aims to familiarize the reader with the latest management strategies for the acute scrotum, discusses key points in diagnosis and management and evaluates the strengths and drawbacks of history and clinical examination from an emergency perspective. It outlines the types and mechanisms of testicular torsion, and examines the current and possible future roles of labwork and radiological imaging in diagnosis. Emergency departments should be wary of younger males presenting with the acute scrotum.
Xanthomarina gelatinilytica gen. nov., sp. nov., isolated from seawater
Authors: Vaidya Bhumika , Kumar Ravinder , Sharma Gunjan , Srinivas Tanuku Naga Radha , Anil Kumar Pinnaka
Published: August 2015

A novel Gram-stain-negative, rod-shaped, yellow-pigmented, non-sporulating, non-motile bacterium, designated strain AK20T, was isolated from seawater collected from Kochi city, Kerala state, India. Colonies on marine agar were circular, yellow, shiny, translucent, 2–3 mm in diameter, convex and with entire margin. Flexirubin-type pigment was present. The fatty acids were dominated by iso-branched units with a high abundance of iso-C15 : 0, iso-C15 : 1 G, iso-C17 : 0 3-OH, summed feature 3 (C16 : 1ω7c and/or iso-C15 : 0 2-OH) and iso-C15 : 0 3-OH. Polar lipids included phosphatidylethanolamine, two unidentified aminophospholipids, two unidentified phospholipids and four unidentified lipids. Menaquinone 6 (MK-6) was the predominant respiratory quinone. The DNA G+C content of strain AK20T was 38.8 mol%. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed that strain AK20T was closely related to Formosa spongicola A2T and Bizionia paragorgiae KMM 6029T (pair-wise sequence similarities of 95.9 and 95.7 %, respectively), forming a distinct branch within the family Flavobacteriaceae and clustering with the clade comprising species of the genus Bizionia. Based on phenotypic and chemotaxonomic characteristics and phylogenetic analysis, strain AK20T is different from the existing genera in the family Flavobacteriaceae, and is therefore considered to represent a novel species of a new genus, for which the name Xanthomarina gelatinilytica gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of Xanthomarina gelatinilytica is AK20T ( = MTCC 11705T = JCM 18821T).
Bacillus hisashii sp. nov., isolated from the caeca of gnotobiotic mice fed with thermophile-fermented compost
Authors: Nishida Ayaka , Miyamoto Hirokuni , Horiuchi Sankichi , Watanabe Ryo , Morita Hidetoshi , Fukuda Shinji , Ohno Hiroshi , Ichinose Shizuko , Miyamoto Hisashi , Kodama Hiroaki
Published: August 2015

A taxonomic study was performed on 15 bacterial isolates from the caeca of gnotobiotic mice that had been fed with thermophile-fermented compost. The 15 isolates were thermophilic, Gram-stain-positive, facultatively anaerobic, endospore-forming bacteria, and were most closely related to Bacillus thermoamylovorans CNCM I-1378T. The 16S rRNA gene sequence of strain N-11T, selected as representative of this new group, showed a similarity of 99.4 % with Bacillus thermoamylovorans CNCM I-1378T, 94.7 % with Bacillus thermolactis R-6488T, and 94.4 % with Bacillus kokeshiiformis MO-04T. The isolates were then classified into two distinct groups based on a (GTG)5-fingerprint analysis. Two isolates, N-11T and N-21, were the representatives of these two groups, respectively.` The N-11T and N-21 isolates showed 66–71 % DNA–DNA relatedness with one other, but had less than 37 % DNA–DNA relatedness with B. thermoamylovorans LMG 18084T. The other 13 isolates showed DNA–DNA relatedness values above 74 % with the N-11T isolate. All 15 isolates grew at 25–60 °C (optimum 50 °C), pH 6–8 (optimum pH 7) and were capable of growing on a medium containing 6 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum 0.5 %). The 15 isolates could be distinguished from B. thermoamylovorans LMG 18084T because they showed Tween 80 hydrolysis activity and did not produce acid from melibiose. The major fatty acids were anteiso-C15 : 0, C16 : 0, iso-C15 : 0, iso-C14 : 0 and iso-C16 : 0. The major polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol and several unidentified phospholipids. The diagnostic diamino acid in the cell-wall peptidoglycan was meso-diaminopimelic acid. The menaquinone was MK-7. The DNA G+C content was 37.9 mol%. Based on the phenotypic properties, the 15 strains represent a novel species of the genus Bacillus, for which the name Bacillus hisashii sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is N-11T ( = NRBC 110226T = LMG 28201T).
Aureibacillus halotolerans gen. nov., sp. nov., isolated from marine sediment
Authors: Liu Yan , Liang Jing , Zhang Zenghu , Yu Min , Wang Min , Zhang Xiao-Hua
Published: August 2015

A Gram-staining-positive, strictly aerobic, spore-forming and rod-shaped motile bacterium with peritrichous flagellae, designated strain S1203T, was isolated from the sediment of the northern Okinawa Trough. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that strain S1203T formed a lineage within the family Bacillaceae that was distinct from the most closely related genera Bacillus, Bhargavaea, Planomicrobium and Virgibacillus with gene sequence similarities ranging from 86.2 to 93.76 %. Optimal growth occurred in the presence of 4–8 % (w/v) NaCl, at pH 7.0–8.0 and 25–32 °C. The cell-wall peptidoglycan was based on meso-diaminopimelic acid and unsaturated menaquinone with seven isoprene units (MK-7) as the predominant respiratory quinone. The major fatty acids (>10 % of total fatty acids) were anteiso-C15 : 0, iso-C15 : 0 and C16 : 0.The major polar lipids were phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol, an unidentified glycolipid and an unidentified phospholipid. The DNA G+C content of strain S1203T was 47.7 mol%. On the basis of polyphasic analysis, strainS1203T was considered to represent a novel species in a new genus of the family Bacillaceae, for which the name Aureibacillus halotolerans gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed; the type strain of Aureibacillus halotolerans is S1203T ( = DSM 28697T = JCM 30067T = MCCC 1K00259T).
Salivary gland infection with Candida tropicalis: antibiotic suppression therapy resulting in selection of uncommon pathogens
Authors: van Prehn Joffrey , van Nieuwenhuizen A. J. , van Weert S. , van Seijen M. , Budding A. E.
Published: August 2015

Introduction:

Candida infection of the salivary glands is extremely rare, and a parotid gland infection with Candida tropicalis in an immunocompetent patient has, to the best of our knowledge, never been described before.

Case presentation:

A 76-year-old male with known bilateral oncocytic parotid lesions and antibiotic suppression therapy for a vascular endograft infection presented with fever and a tender red mass in the left parotid region. Although a bacterial infection of the parotid gland was suspected at first, cultures of parotid cyst aspirate yielded C. tropicalis. Once the Gram stain indicated the presence of yeast cells, fluconazole therapy was initiated. Follow-up after 3 weeks showed resolution of the infection and antifungal therapy was ceased.

Conclusions:

With increasing and widespread antibiotic use, this case underlines the emergence of uncommon pathogens by antibiotic selection pressure. This shift in causative pathogens will not only result in an increase in Candida infections at known body sites but will also lead to infection of less common anatomical sites. Clinicians should recognize this trend and adjust their differential diagnosis accordingly.
Targeted insertion in well-characterizedDrosophilacell lines using φC31 integrase
Authors: Cherbas Lucy , Hackney Jennifer , Gong Lei , Salzer Claire , Mauser Eric , Zhang Dayu , Cherbas Peter
Published: August 2015

We describe an adaptation of φC31 integrase-mediated targeted cassette exchange for use inDrosophilacell lines. Single copies of an attP-bounded docking platform carrying a GFP-expression marker, with and without insulator elements flanking the attP sites, were inserted by P-element transformation into the Kc167 and Sg4 cell lines; each of the resulting docking site lines carries a single mapped copy of one of the docking platforms. Vectors for targeted substitution contain a cloning cassette flanked by attB sites. Targeted substitution occurs by integrase-mediated substitution between the attP sites (integrated) and the attB sites (vector). We describe procedures for isolating cells carrying the substitutions and for eliminating the products of secondary off-target events. We demonstrated the technology by integrating a cassette containing a Cu++-inducible mCherry marker, and we report the expression properties of those lines. When compared with clonal lines made by traditional transformation methods, which lead to the illegitimate insertion of tandem arrays, targeted insertion lines give more uniform expression, lower basal expression and higher induction ratios. Targeted substitution, though intricate, affords results that should greatly improve comparative expression assays – a major emphasis of cell-based studies.
A Method of Accounting for Enzyme Costs in Flux Balance Analysis Reveals Alternative Pathways and Metabolite Stores in an Illuminated Arabidopsis Leaf
Authors: Cheung C.Y. Maurice , Ratcliffe R. George , Sweetlove Lee J.
Published: August 2015

Flux balance analysis of plant metabolism is an established method for predicting metabolic flux phenotypes and for exploring the way in which the plant metabolic network delivers specific outcomes in different cell types, tissues, and temporal phases. A recurring theme is the need to explore the flexibility of the network in meeting its objectives and, in particular, to establish the extent to which alternative pathways can contribute to achieving specific outcomes. Unfortunately, predictions from conventional flux balance analysis minimize the simultaneous operation of alternative pathways, but by introducing flux-weighting factors to allow for the variable intrinsic cost of supporting each flux, it is possible to activate different pathways in individual simulations and, thus, to explore alternative pathways by averaging thousands of simulations. This new method has been applied to a diel genome-scale model of Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) leaf metabolism to explore the flexibility of the network in meeting the metabolic requirements of the leaf in the light. This identified alternative flux modes in the Calvin-Benson cycle revealed the potential for alternative transitory carbon stores in leaves and led to predictions about the light-dependent contribution of alternative electron flow pathways and futile cycles in energy rebalancing. Notable features of the analysis include the light-dependent tradeoff between the use of carbohydrates and four-carbon organic acids as transitory storage forms and the way in which multiple pathways for the consumption of ATP and NADPH can contribute to the balancing of the requirements of photosynthetic metabolism with the energy available from photon capture.
Modes of customer co-production for international service offerings
Authors: Sampson Scott E. , Money R. Bruce
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– Much has been written about the manifestations and managerial implications of customer co-production in service offerings. However, there have been relatively few references to issues of co-production in international service environments. Co-production is very relevant in international environments because of the requirements for interaction between producers and consumers, which interaction spans international borders and national cultures. The purpose of this paper is to apply an established theory of co-production, the Unified Service Theory (UST), to the international service context. This provides the authors with structured models for conceptualizing the co-productive nature of international service offerings and assessing-related managerial implications.

Design/methodology/approach

– The UST provides a model of co-productive service delivery. Extending that model, the authors develop a taxonomy of international service based on the “four modes of service supply” provided in the General Agreement on Trade and Services instituted by the World Trade Organization (WTO). Then, using data from the WTO and World Bank, the authors propose and test six hypotheses for predicting service exporting focus corresponding to the co-production taxonomy.

Findings

– Based on the analysis of empirical data, the authors find more service exporting focus in small, growing, high-wage economies that have a significant service base and focus in merchandise exporting. The strength of these effects differs for different modes of service supply.

Research limitations/implications

– The authors also discuss cultural issues of international service, but the empirical analysis of culture effects is thus far inconclusive. Also, the analysis is limited to modeling and studying dyadic relationships, i.e., service providers in one country involved in an interchange with customers in another country. A natural extension would be to consider triads and more complex networks of co-productive service offerings.

Practical implications

– This research shows how managerial implication of the UST can be extended to international service contexts. The authors review managerial implications pertaining to meeting variable demand, describing service characteristics, and pricing.

Originality/value

– Co-production research is well-established in service management literature. This paper extends that research to international contexts by describing the WTO taxonomy in terms of the UST. This allows the authors to apply various insights of co-production to international service offerings.
Impact of country effects on the performance of service firms
Authors: Elango B , Wieland Jamie R.
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– Understanding the impact of country effect on financial performance is important for service firms as they continue to grow and operate across national borders. The purpose of this paper is to empirically quantify the impact of country and several country-specific variables on firm performance in the service sector by estimating the portion of variation in firm performance attributed to these factors.

Design/methodology/approach

– Using hierarchical linear models, the authors estimate the proportion of variation driven by country effects. These estimates are obtained from a data panel of 16,051 units from 3,345 service firms across 32 countries over a seven-year time frame (2001-2007).

Findings

– In the analysis, home country explains approximately 11 percent of the variance in performance. Additionally, the authors find that six country-specific variables, namely, quality of governance, openness to trade, wealth, growth rate, uncertainty avoidance and individualism collectively explain 10 percent of variation in performance or 26.8 percent relative variation of performance.

Originality/value

– This study extends the literature on country effect by quantifying the impact of country-specific dimensions on performance. It focusses on a single industry within the service sector. This allows for a more reliable estimate of the country effect, as it will not be confounded by cross-industry effects – thus alleviating some of the concerns with earlier research. Understanding the impact of the six specific country variables investigated in this work will allow service firms to better predict and improve the performance of subsidiaries.