bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What are the minimum requirements for ketogenic diet services in resource‐limited regions? Recommendations from the International League Against Epilepsy Task Force for Dietary Therapy
Authors: Kossoff Eric H. , Al‐Macki Nabil , Cervenka Mackenzie C. , Kim Heung D. , Liao Jianxiang , Megaw Katherine , Nathan Janak K. , Raimann Ximena , Rivera Rocio , Wiemer‐Kruel Adelheid , Williams Emma , Zupec‐Kania Beth A.
Published: May 2015

Despite the increasing use of dietary therapies for children and adults with refractory epilepsy, the availability of these treatments in developing countries with limited resources remains suboptimal. One possible contributory factor may be the costs. There is often reported a significant perceived need for a large ketogenic diet team, supplements, laboratory studies, and follow‐up visits to provide this treatment. The 2009 Epilepsia Consensus Statement described ideal requirements for a ketogenic diet center, but in some situations this is not feasible. As a result, the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) Task Force on Dietary Therapy was asked to convene and provide practical, cost‐effective recommendations for new ketogenic diet centers in resource‐limited regions of the world.
Structure of a thermophilic F1‐ATPase inhibited by an ε‐subunit: deeper insight into the ε‐inhibition mechanism
Authors: Shirakihara Yasuo , Shiratori Aya , Tanikawa Hiromi , Nakasako Masayoshi , Yoshida Masasuke , Suzuki Toshiharu
Published: May 2015

F1‐ATPase (F1) is the catalytic sector in FoF1‐ATPsynthase that is responsible forATPproduction in living cells. In catalysis, its three catalytic β‐subunits undergo nucleotide occupancy‐dependent and concerted open–close conformational changes that are accompanied by rotation of the γ‐subunit. Bacterial and chloroplast F1are inhibited by their own ε‐subunit. In the ε‐inhibitedEscherichia coliF1structure, the ε‐subunit stabilizes the overall conformation (half‐closed, closed, open) of the β‐subunits by inserting its C‐terminal helix into the α3β3cavity. The structure of ε‐inhibited thermophilic F1is similar to that ofE. coliF1, showing a similar conformation of the ε‐subunit, but the thermophilic ε‐subunit stabilizes another unique overall conformation (open, closed, open) of the β‐subunits. The ε‐C‐terminal helix 2 and hook are conserved between the two structures in interactions with target residues and in their positions. Rest of the ε‐C‐terminal domains are in quite different conformations and positions, and have different modes of interaction with targets. This region is thought to serve ε‐inhibition differently. For inhibition, the ε‐subunit contacts the second catches of some of the β‐ and α‐subunits, the N‐ and C‐terminal helices, and some of the Rossmann fold segments. Those contacts, as a whole, lead to positioning of those β‐ and α‐ second catches in ε‐inhibition‐specific positions, and prevent rotation of the γ‐subunit. Some of the structural features are observed even inIF1inhibition in mitochondrial F1.

Database

Structural data are available in the Worldwide Protein Data Bank database under the accession number4XD7
Non–animal collagens as new options for cosmetic formulation
Authors: Peng Y. Y. , Stoichevska V. , Vashi A. , Howell L. , Fehr F. , Dumsday G. J. , Werkmeister J. A. , Ramshaw J. A. M.
Published: May 2015

Synopsis

Objective

To examine the potential of non‐animal collagens as a new option for cosmetic applications.

Methods

Non‐animal collagens from three species,Streptococcus pyogenes,Solibacter usitatusandMethylobacteriumsp 4‐46, have been expressed as recombinant proteins inEscherichia coliusing a cold‐shock, pCold, expression system. The proteins were purified using either metal affinity chromatography or a simple process based on precipitation and proteolytic digestion of impurities, which is suitable for large‐scale production. Samples were examined using a range of analytical procedures.

Results

Analyses by gel electrophoresis and mass spectrometry were used to examine the purity and integrity of the products. Circular dichroism spectroscopy showed stabilities around 38°C, and calculated pIvalues were from 5.4 to 8.6.UV‐visible light spectroscopy showed the clarity of collagen solutions. The collagens were soluble at low ionic strength between pH5 and pH8, but were less soluble under more acidic conditions. At lower pH, the insoluble material was well dispersed and did not form the fibrous associations and aggregates found with animal collagens. The materials were shown to be non‐cytotoxic to cells in culture.

Conclusions

These novel, non‐animal collagens may be potential alternatives to animal collagens for inclusion in cosmetic formulations.
A model of sustainable household technology acceptance
Authors: Ahn Mira , Kang Jiyun , Hustvedt Gwendolyn
Published: May 2015

There is an expanding range of technologies used in a residential setting to enable sustainable living, including ‘smart’ technology that uses learning and connectivity to modify household behaviours. Understanding what drives the adoption of sustainable household technology will allow product developers, marketers and policy makers to use technology to reduce the environmental impact of homes. Based on the United Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology, a model that explains predictors of intention to adopt sustainable household technology was developed and tested via an online survey of 592 US consumers. The results from structural equation modelling demonstrate that product attributes of sustainable household technology including performance, compatibleness and hedonic expectancy as well as consumer characteristics, in specific, sustainable innovativeness significantly predicts adoption intent. Conversely, the model testing shows that effort expectancy as well as social pressure and environmentalism are not significant predictors of adoption intention Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
A pilot randomised controlled trial to assess the utility of an e-learning package that trains users in adverse drug reaction causality
Authors: Conroy Elizabeth J , Kirkham Jamie J , Bellis Jennifer R , Peak Matthew , Smyth Rosalind L , Williamson Paula R , Pirmohamed Munir
Published: May 2015

Objectives

Causality assessment of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) by healthcare professionals is often informal which can lead to inconsistencies in practice. The Liverpool Causality Assessment Tool (LCAT) offers a systematic approach. An interactive, web-based, e-learning package, the Liverpool ADR Causality Assessment e-learning Package (LACAeP), was designed to improve causality assessment using the LCAT. This study aimed to (1) get feedback on usability and usefulness on the LACAeP, identify areas for improvement and development, and generate data on effect size to inform a larger scale study; and (2) test the usability and usefulness of the LCAT.

Methods

A pilot, single-blind, parallel-group, randomised controlled trial hosted by the University of Liverpool was undertaken. Participants were paediatric medical trainees at specialty training level 1+ within the Mersey and North-West England Deaneries. Participants were randomised (1 : 1) access to the LACAeP or no training. The primary efficacy outcome was score by correct classification, predefined by a multidisciplinary panel of experts. Following participation, feedback on both the LCAT and the LACAeP was obtained, via a built in survey, from participants.

Key findings

Of 57 randomised, 35 completed the study. Feedback was mainly positive although areas for improvement were identified. Seventy-four per cent of participants found the LCAT easy to use and 78% found the LACAeP training useful. Sixty-one per cent would be unlikely to recommend the training. Scores ranged from 4 to 13 out of 20. The LACAeP increased scores by 1.3, but this was not significant.

Conclusions

Improving the LACAeP before testing it in an appropriately powered trial, informed by the differences observed, is required. Rigorous evaluation will enable a quality resource that will be of value in healthcare professional training.
Assistants' in nursing perceptions of their social place within mental health‐care settings
Authors: Cowan Darrin , Frame Nicholas , Brunero Scott , Lamont Scott , Joyce Mark
Published: May 2015

An international nurse shortage, tightening fiscal constraints, and increased service demands have seen health systems increasingly turn to employing assistants in nursing (AIN) as a cost‐effective means to meet demand. This paper describes social positioning from the perspective of 11 AIN who were employed to work in specialist mental health settings in a metropolitan health service in Sydney. Data was collected by means of semistructured interviews. Interview questions encouraged AIN to explore their experience with reference to positioning within the service, role perception, role development, staff relationship, and role satisfaction. Thematic analysis was utilized to generate themes and explore meaning within the data. The following themes emerged: role definition and clarity; socialization and adaptation; and enhancing education. Analysis suggests that whilst AIN were integrated into mainstream service, the scope of activities or role remains geographically variable and inconsistent. Encouragingly, as AIN became familiar with their work environments and teams, they considered themselves to be of value and were able to play a meaningful role. A desire for learning and a need for continuing education also emerged as a primary theme. Findings from the data suggest that AIN in the mental health setting remain a novel and, to some extent, poorly utilized resource.
Making the Break
Authors: Brailey Mary
Published: May 2015

Mary Brailey's paper reports on research into the rehousing of women after marital breakdown in four local authority areas in Scotland. The four areas represented a range of allocation and homelessness policies. The paper identifies the underlying assumptions of rehousing policies in cases of marital breakdown. One such assumption is that people fabricate stories of breakdown, manipulating the housing system in order to secure a house, move to a better house or evade rent arrears. The research uncovered no evidence of such abuse; most women did not have a sufficiently sophisticated knowledge of the housing system to manipulate it in the manner suggested. Another assumption is that marital breakdown is a ‘bad thing’ and that reconciliation is to be preferred. This leads to procedures designed to give the parties time for reconsideration, minimum separation periods being stipulated by some authorities.

In the four areas studied the proportion of battered women whose applications for rehousing were successful varied from 19 per cent to 52 per cent; they were usually denied access to the better housing. The author argues that if the underlying assumptions were changed, there would be scope for effective change within the existing framework of law and local government operations.
Constructing Images of Deviance: A Look at State Intervention into the Problem of Wife-Battery
Authors: Morgan Patricia A.
Published: May 2015

Patricia Morgan's paper describes what happens when the state intervenes in the social problem of wife-battering. Her analysis refers to the United States, but there are clear implications for other countries, including Britain. The author argues that the state, through its social problem apparatus, manages the image of the problem by a process of bureaucratization, professionalization and individualization. This serves to narrow the definition of the problem, and to depoliticize it by removing it from its class context and viewing it in terms of individual pathology rather than structure.

Thus refuges were initially run by small feminist collectives which had a dual objective of providing a service and promoting among the women an understanding of their structural position in society. The need for funds forced the groups to turn to the state for financial aid. This was given, but at the cost to the refuges of losing their political aims. Many refuges became larger, much more service-orientated and more diversified in providing therapy for the batterers and dealing with other problems such as alcoholism and drug abuse. This transformed not only the refuges but also the image of the problem of wife-battering.
Doing His Best to Sustain the Sanctity of Marriage
Authors: Freeman Michael D.A.
Published: May 2015

Freeman's paper deals with marital rape, a specific form of marital violence which has been virtually ignored in the literature on violence against women. Battering and rape, the author argues, are closely related and frequently occur together. Both forms of violence stem from a patriarchal society designed to protect the interests of men and maintain male dominance.

At present men who rape their wives are immune from prosecution in England. This is also the case in most other countries, but the paper also considers what has happened in places where the immunity has been removed or modified. Freeman traces the history of the immunity in England and casts doubt on its legal foundation and on the contemporary arguments used in its defence. The immunity rests on two shaky foundations: that married women are part of their husbands' property and that man and wife are one flesh. The first of these ideas may still have some currency, but it is as out-moded as the immunity itself. The author considers various modifications that could be made to the exclusion rule but concludes that abolition is the only satisfactory solution.

Women made a fuss about it in books, but in the cool judgement of right thinking men, of other men of the world, such as he recollected often received praise in the Divorce Court, he had but done his best to sustain the sanctity of marriage, to prevent her from abandoning her duty . … No, he did not regret it.
Some Elements of a Sociology of Translation: Domestication of the Scallops and the Fishermen of St Brieuc Bay
Authors: Callon Michel
Published: May 2015

This paper outlines a new approach to the study of power, that of the sociology of translation. Starting from three principles, those of agnosticism (impartiality between actors engaged in controversy), generalised symmetry (the commitment to explain conflicting viewpoints in the same terms) and free association (the abandonment of all a priori distinctions between the natural and the social), the paper describes a scientific and economic controversy about the causes for the decline in the population of scallops in St. Brieuc Bay and the attempts by three marine biologists to develop a conservation strategy for that population. Four ‘moments’ of translation are discerned in the attempts by these researchers to impose themselves and their definition of the situation on others: (a) problematisation: the researchers sought to become indispensable to other actors in the drama by denning the nature and the problems of the latter and then suggesting that these would be resolved if the actors negotiated the ‘obligatory passage point’ of the researchers' programme of investigation; (b) interessement: a series of processes by which the researchers sought to lock the other actors into the roles that had been proposed for them in that programme; (c) enrolment: a set of strategies in which the researchers sought to define and interrelate the various roles they had allocated to others; (d) mobilisation: a set of methods used by the researchers to ensure that supposed spokesmen for various relevant collectivities were properly able to represent those collectivities and not betrayed by the latter. In conclusion it is noted that translation is a process, never a completed accomplishment, and it may (as in the empirical case considered) fail.
Further evidence that paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria is a disorder of defective cell membrane lipid rafts
Authors: Ratajczak Mariusz Z. , Borkowska Sylwia , Mierzejewska Kasia , Kucia Magda , Mendek‐Czajkowska Ewa , Suszynska Malwina , Sharma Vivek A. , Deptala Andrzej , Song Wechao , Platzbecker Uwe , Larratt Loree , Janowska‐Wieczorek Anna , Maciejewski Jarek , Ratajczak Janina
Published: May 2015

The glycolipid glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchor (GPI‐A) plays an important role in lipid raft formation, which is required for proper expression on the cell surface of two inhibitors of the complement cascade,CD55 andCD59. The absence of these markers from the surface of blood cells, including erythrocytes, makes the cells susceptible to complement lysis, as seen in patients suffering from paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH). However, the explanation for whyPNH‐affected hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs) expand over time inBMis still unclear. Here, we propose an explanation for this phenomenon and provide evidence that a defect in lipid raft formation inHSPCs leads to defectiveCXCR4‐ andVLA‐4‐mediated retention of these cells inBM. In support of this possibility,BM‐isolatedCD34+cells fromPNHpatients show a defect in the incorporation ofCXCR4 andVLA‐4 into membrane lipid rafts, respond weakly toSDF‐1 stimulation, and show defective adhesion to fibronectin. Similar data were obtained with theGPI‐A−Jurkat cell line. Moreover, we also report that chimeric mice transplanted withCD55−/− CD59−/−BMcells but with properGPI‐A expression do not expand over time in transplanted hosts. On the basis of these findings, we propose that a defect in lipid raft formation inPNH‐mutatedHSPCs makes these cells more mobile, so that they expand and out‐compete normalHSPCs from theirBMniches over time.
On the impact of urbanization on flood hydrology of small ungauged basins: the case study of the Tiber river tributary network within the city of Rome
Authors: Nardi F. , Annis A. , Biscarini C.
Published: May 2015

The small ungauged basins of the highly urbanized area of the city of Rome are often the subject of critical flood conditions for the significant human‐made transformations. In this work the EBA4SUB framework, implementing the hydrogeomorphic width function instantaneous unit hydrograph rainfall run‐off model, and using digital elevation model, land use and synthetic precipitation as main input information, is applied for evaluating extreme hydrologic forcing conditions at the basic scale. The goal is to understand the rationale behind the observed increasing frequency of local urban inundations that are also observed in the uplands. Results present the impact of urbanization expressed by both the run‐off coefficient, the artificial drainage, impacted by paved surfaces and a dramatic number of river–road intersections (i.e. culverts), and the upstream to downstream non‐natural scaling behaviour of hydrologic parameters and in particular the peak discharge per unit drainage area.
Characteristics of Work‐ and Non‐work‐Related Farm Injuries
Authors: Gross Nathan , Young Tracy , Ramirez Marizen , Leinenkugel Kathy , Peek‐Asa Corinne
Published: May 2015

Purpose

Farm‐related injuries are an important public health problem in agriculture because of their impact on individuals, families, and farm operations. While surveillance programs such as the Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries is available to track fatal agricultural injuries, more work is needed to examine the burden of nonfatal agricultural injuries.

Methods

Data involving agricultural injuries were collected from the Iowa Trauma Registry from January 1, 2005, through December 31, 2011. A total of 2,490 trauma patients were found to have been classified as having a farm‐related injury. These nonfatal farm‐related injuries were compared by work‐relatedness, injury severity score, length of hospital stay, and hospital discharge status. Also reported are the age and gender of the trauma patients, as well as the population of the county in which the injury occurred.

Results

In our analysis, we found that work‐ versus nonwork‐relatedness had little effect on injury severity, but that work‐related injuries did result in longer average hospital stays. Injuries occurring in counties of lower population size tended to be slightly more severe and be more likely to have nonroutine discharges.

Conclusions

Farm environments pose hazards which are persistent for those working and living on the farm, regardless of whether or not they are engaged in work‐related activities. Public health prevention approaches that consider work and nonwork farm environments may be helpful in designing interventions to reduce injury.
Disparities in Colorectal Cancer Treatment Delay Within Appalachia—The Role of For‐Profit Hospitals
Authors: Seiber Eric E. , Camacho Fabian , Zeeshan Muhammad Fazal , Kern Teresa T. , Fleming Steven T.
Published: May 2015

Background

Appalachian residents have a higher overall cancer burden than the rest of the United States because of the unique features of the region. Treatment delays vary widely within Appalachia, with colorectal cancer patients undergoing median treatment delays of 5 days in Kentucky compared to 9 days for patients in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and North Carolina combined.

Objective

This study identified the source of this disparity in treatment delay using statistical decomposition techniques.

Methodology

This study used linked 2006 to 2008 cancer registry and Medicare claims data for the Appalachian counties of Kentucky, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and North Carolina to estimate a 2‐part model of treatment delay. An Oaxaca Decomposition of the 2‐part model revealed the contribution of the individual determinants to the disparity in delay between Kentucky counties and the remaining 3 states.

Results

The Oaxaca Decomposition revealed that the higher percentage of patients treated at for‐profit facilities in Kentucky proved the key contributor to the observed disparity. In Kentucky, 22.3% patients began their treatment at a for‐profit facility compared to 1.4% in the remaining states. Patients initiating treatment at for‐profit facilities explained 79% of the observed difference in immediate treatment (<2 days after diagnosis) and 72% of Kentucky's advantage in log days to treatment.

Conclusions

The unique role of for‐profit facilities led to reduced treatment delay for colorectal cancer patients in Kentucky. However, it remains unknown whether for‐profit hospitals’ more rapid treatment converts to better health outcomes for colorectal cancer patients.
Moving on in life after intensive care – partners' experience of group communication
Authors: Ahlberg Mona , Bäckman Carl , Jones Christina , Walther Sten , Hollman Frisman Gunilla
Published: May 2015

Background

Partners have a burdensome time during and after their partners' intensive care period. They may appear to be coping well outwardly but inside feel vulnerable and lost. Evaluated interventions for partners on this aspect are limited.

Aim

The aim of this study was to describe the experience of participating in group communication with other partners of former intensive care patients.

Design

The study has a descriptive intervention‐based design where group communication for partners of former, surviving intensive care unit (ICU) patients was evaluated.

Methods

A strategic selection was made of adult partners to former adult intensive care patients (n = 15), 5 men and 10 women, aged 37–89 years. Two group communication sessions lasting 2 h were held at monthly intervals with three to five partners. The partners later wrote, in a notebook, about their feelings of participating in group communications. To deepen the understanding of the impact of the sessions, six of the partners were interviewed. Content analysis was used to analyse the notebooks and the interviews.

Findings

Three categories were identified: (1) Emotional impact, the partners felt togetherness and experienced worries and gratitude, (2) Confirmation, consciousness through insight and reflection and (3) The meeting design, group constellation and recommendation to participate in group communication.

Conclusion

Partners of an intensive care patient are on a journey, constantly trying to adapt to the new situation and find new strategies to ever‐changing circumstances. Group communications contributed to togetherness and confirmation. To share experiences with others is one way for partners to be able to move forward in life.

Relevance to clinical practice

Group communication with other patients' partners eases the process of going through the burden of being a partner to an intensive care patient. Group communications needs to be further developed and evaluated to obtain consensus and evidence for the best practice.
Microbial dynamics during conversion from supragingival to subgingival biofilms in an in vitro model
Authors: Thurnheer T. , Bostanci N. , Belibasakis G.N.
Published: May 2015

The development of dental caries and periodontal diseases result from distinct shifts in the microbiota of the tooth‐associated biofilm. This in vitro study aimed to investigate changes in biofilm composition and structure, during the shift from a ‘supragingival’ aerobic profile to a ‘subgingival’ anaerobic profile. Biofilms consisting of Actinomyces oris, Candida albicans, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Streptococcus oralis, Streptococcus mutans and Veillonella dispar were aerobically grown in saliva‐containing medium on hydroxyapatite disks. After 64 h, Campylobacter rectus, Prevotella intermedia and Streptococcus anginosus were further added along with human serum, while culture conditions were shifted to microaerophilic. After 96 h, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia and Treponema denticola were finally added and the biofilm was grown anaerobically for another 64 h. At the end of each phase, biofilms were harvested for species‐specific quantification and localization. Apart from C. albicans, all other species gradually increased during aerobic and microaerophilic conditions, but remained steady during anaerobic conditions. Biofilm thickness was doubled during the microaerophilic phase, but remained steady throughout the anaerobic phase. Extracellular polysaccharide presence was gradually reduced throughout the growth period. Biofilm viability was reduced during the microaerophilic conversion, but was recovered during the anaerobic phase. This in vitro study has characterized the dynamic structural shifts occurring in an oral biofilm model during the switch from aerobic to anaerobic conditions, potentially modeling the conversion of supragingival to subgingival biofilms. Within the limitations of this experimental model, the findings may provide novel insights into the ecology of oral biofilms.
No Identity Without an Entity
Authors: Manning Luke
Published: May 2015

Peter Geach's puzzle of intentional identity is to explain how the claim ‘Hob thinks a witch has blighted Bob's mare, and Nob wonders whether she (the same witch) killed Cob's sow’ is compatible with there being no such witch. I clarify the puzzle and reduce it to the familiar problem of negative existentials. That problem is a paradox of representations that seem to include denials of commitment (implicitly, here), to carry commitment to what they deny commitment to, and to be true. The best proposed solutions can be understood through this paradox; I evaluate them, and defend a new solution.
Stem and leaf hydraulic properties are finely coordinated in three tropical rain forest tree species
Authors: Nolf Markus , Creek Danielle , Duursma Remko , Holtum Joseph , Mayr Stefan , Choat Brendan
Published: May 2015

Coordination of stem and leaf hydraulic traits allows terrestrial plants to maintain safe water status under limited water supply. Tropical rain forests, one of the world's most productive biomes, are vulnerable to drought and potentially threatened by increased aridity due to global climate change. However, the relationship of stem and leaf traits within the plant hydraulic continuum remains understudied, particularly in tropical species. We studied within‐plant hydraulic coordination between stems and leaves in three tropical lowland rain forest tree species by analyses of hydraulic vulnerability [hydraulic methods and ultrasonic emission (UE) analysis], pressure‐volume relations and in situ pre‐dawn and midday water potentials (Ψ). We found finely coordinated stem and leaf hydraulic features, with a strategy of sacrificing leaves in favour of stems. Fifty percent of hydraulic conductivity (P50) was lost at −2.1 to −3.1 MPa in stems and at −1.7 to −2.2 MPa in leaves. UE analysis corresponded to hydraulic measurements. Safety margins (leaf P50 – stem P50) were very narrow at −0.4 to −1.4 MPa. Pressure‐volume analysis and in situ Ψ indicated safe water status in stems but risk of hydraulic failure in leaves. Our study shows that stem and leaf hydraulics were finely tuned to avoid embolism formation in the xylem.
Type I Chiari malformation presenting with laryngomalacia and dysphagia
Authors: Liu Christopher , Ulualp Seckin O.
Published: May 2015

We describe clinical features of an infant with laryngomalacia and dysphagia caused by type I Chiari malformation (CM‐I). A 12‐month‐old child presented with a 6 month history of progressive stridor, dysphagia, and gastroesophageal reflux. Examination of the airway and swallowing function indicated mild laryngomalacia and aspiration with all consistencies. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain indicated CM‐I. Symptoms were resolved after posterior fossa decompression. CM‐I, typically diagnosed later in life, should be considered in the differential diagnosis of laryngomalacia and dysphagia. High clinical suspicion and thorough search for abnormalities ensure early diagnosis and proper management of children with neurologic variant laryngomalacia.
Metabolic profiling reveals ethylene mediated metabolic changes and a coordinated adaptive mechanism of ‘Jonagold’ apple to low oxygen stress
Authors: Bekele Elias A. , Beshir Wasiye F. , Hertog Maarten L.A.T.M. , Nicolai Bart M. , Geeraerd Annemie H.
Published: May 2015

Apples are predominantly stored in controlled atmosphere (CA) storage to delay ripening and prolong their storage life. Profiling the dynamics of metabolic changes during ripening and CA storage is vital for understanding the governing molecular mechanism. In this study, the dynamics of the primary metabolism of ‘Jonagold’ apples during ripening in regular air (RA) storage and initiation of CA storage was profiled. 1‐Methylcyclopropene (1‐MCP) was exploited to block ethylene receptors and to get insight into ethylene mediated metabolic changes during ripening of the fruit and in response to hypoxic stress. Metabolic changes were quantified in glycolysis, the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, the Yang cycle and synthesis of the main amino acids branching from these metabolic pathways. Partial least square discriminant analysis of the metabolic profiles of 1‐MCP treated and control apples revealed a metabolic divergence in ethylene, organic acid, sugar and amino acid metabolism. During RA storage at 18°C, most amino acids were higher in 1‐MCP treated apples, whereas 1‐aminocyclopropane‐1‐carboxylic acid (ACC) was higher in the control apples. The initial response of the fruit to CA initiation was accompanied by an increase of alanine, succinate and glutamate, but a decline in aspartate. Furthermore, alanine and succinate accumulated to higher levels in control apples than 1‐MCP treated apples. The observed metabolic changes in these interlinked metabolites may indicate a coordinated adaptive strategy to maximize energy production.
The socioecological complexity of ecological restoration in Mexico
Authors: Ceccon Eliane , Barrera‐Cataño José I. , Aronson James , Martínez‐Garza Cristina
Published: May 2015

Almost half of Mexican territory has been classified as environmentally degraded. The main response for the last 60 years has been reforestation to combat soil erosion and loss of forest cover, mostly carried out on private lands where negotiations with local stakeholders were critical. Despite four legal instruments referring to ecological restoration, no specific instrument that defines basic concepts, criteria and standards, required actions, or regulations to implement and evaluate ecological restoration exists. The Ministry of the Environment and Natural Resources is now solely in charge of restoration and only recently have external scientists been invited to be part of the process. Following important national and international events in Latin America and the Caribbean region, the First Mexican Symposium on Ecological Restoration was held in November, 2014. This historic event was the first action undertaken in Mexico to meet Objective 3 of the Global Strategy of Plant Conservation, coordinated in Mexico by the National Council for the Use and Knowledge of Biodiversity. Although mangrove ecosystems are the most endangered ecosystem type in Mexico, they were not well represented at the symposium. In contrast, several other ecosystem types, such as tropical dry forest and islands, have received increased attention. Overall, while the Symposium and above‐cited policy initiatives are important steps, Mexico needs to increase its institutional capacities and social organization of the rural sector with regard to ecological restoration. Better integration of social and natural scientists and increased participation of Mexico internationally is also needed.
The Influence of Value Orientations, Personal Beliefs, and Knowledge about Resource Extraction on Local Leaders' Positions on Shale Development
Authors: Crowe Jessica , Ceresola Ryan , Silva Tony
Published: May 2015

Unconventional shale oil and gas production plays a prominent role in boosting economic growth and stimulating wealth creation in many communities. However, because of potential social and environmental drawbacks, including a lack of affordable housing and groundwater contamination from drilling, unconventional shale development is highly contentious in many areas and has resulted in many community conflicts. Hydraulic fracturing, which is a specific technology utilized in unconventional shale development, has proved especially contentious because of concerns about its long‐term environmental consequences. Given the fast pace of shale development, coupled with the controversy that surrounds it, we seek to understand what factors affect a local government official's stance on shale development and hydraulic fracturing. To do this we draw from value‐belief‐norms theory while additionally examining knowledge and community‐level factors that can influence an official's position. In this study, we survey 308 local government officials across six shale plays in the United States to examine local officials' positions on shale development and hydraulic fracturing. We find that the more positively officials perceive the consequences of shale development, the less likely they are to support banning hydraulic fracturing. Additionally, we find that networks to other shale communities are positively associated with favoring a ban. Further, leaders with a bachelor's degree or higher are more likely to favor a ban than those with lower than a bachelor's degree.
Anti‐D alloimmunisation in pregnant women with DEL phenotype in China
Authors: Wang M. , Wang B. L. , Xu W. , Fan D. D. , Peng M. L. , Pan J. , Yao P. , Jiang G. M. , Wan X. J.
Published: May 2015

Objectives

To analyse anti‐D alloimmunisation in pregnant women with D‐elute (DEL) phenotype in China, for developing a predictive model to evaluate whether a person with the DEL phenotype can receive RhD‐positive blood.

Background

Alloanti‐D acquired by pregnancy or transfusion is one of the major causes of both haemolytic disease among newborns and haemolytic transfusion reactions. To date, there is little data available about the antigenic properties and immunogenicity of extremely weak D variants known as DEL.

Methods

RHD genotyping and D epitope mapping were performed using gene sequencing and comprehensive immunohaematological methods, respectively. DEL pregnant women carrying an RhD‐positive fetus were tested for the presence of alloanti‐D.

Results

A total of 130 of 142 (91·5%) pregnant women with a DEL phenotype were confirmed to carry the RHD (K409K) allele. Among 12 DEL women who appeared to have RHD‐CE‐D hybrid alleles, there were 1 RHD‐CE (4–7)‐D, 7 RHD‐CE(4–9)‐D, and 4 RHD‐CE (2–5)‐D alleles. Alloanti‐D antibodies were detected in 6 of 142 DEL women, and all the six women had the partial DEL phenotype.

Conclusion

The data indicate that partial DEL women appear at risk of alloimmunization to the D antigen. RhD immune globulin prophylaxis is necessary for partial DEL women. Partial DEL patients should receive only RhD‐negative RBCs, whereas DEL patients with complete expression of antigen can safely receive RhD‐positive RBCs.
Bone density in apheresis donors and whole blood donors
Authors: Boot C. L. , Luken J. S. , van den Burg P. J. M. , de Kort W. L. A. M. , Koopman M. M. W. , Vrielink H. , van Schoor N. M. , den Heijer M. , Lips P.
Published: May 2015

Apheresis donation using citrate causes acute decrease in serum calcium and increase in serum parathyroid hormone. Long‐term consequences, such as decrease in bone mineral density (BMD), are not known. In this study, we compared the BMD of 20 postmenopausal apheresis donors (mean donation number 115 times in up to 15 years) with that of 20 whole blood donors (for 15 years or more) aged 55–70. BMD in the lumbar spine was not lower in apheresis donors than in blood donors (mean ± SD 1·00 ± 0·18 vs. 0·92 ± 0·12, P = 0·09). In the hip, BMD was not different between the groups.
Predicted Distribution of Visceral Leishmaniasis Vectors (Diptera: Psychodidae; Phlebotominae) in Iran: A Niche Model Study
Authors: Hanafi‐Bojd A. A. , Rassi Y. , Yaghoobi‐Ershadi M. R. , Haghdoost A. A. , Akhavan A. A. , Charrahy Z. , Karimi A.
Published: May 2015

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is an important vector‐borne disease in Iran. Till now, Leishmania infantum has been detected from five species of sand flies in the country including Phlebotomus kandelakii, Phlebotomus major s.l., Phlebotomus perfiliewi, Phlebotomus alexandri and Phlebotomus tobbi. Also, Phlebotomus keshishiani was found to be infected with Leishmania parasites. This study aimed at predicting the probable niches and distribution of vectors of visceral leishmaniasis in Iran. Data on spatial distribution studies of sand flies were obtained from Iranian database on sand flies. Sample points were included in data from faunistic studies on sand flies conducted during 1995–2013. MaxEnt software was used to predict the appropriate ecological niches for given species, using climatic and topographical data. Distribution maps were prepared and classified in ArcGIS to find main ecological niches of the vectors and hot spots for VL transmission in Iran. Phlebotomus kandelakii, Ph. major s.l. and Ph. alexandri seem to have played a more important role in VL transmission in Iran, so this study focuses on them. Representations of MaxEnt model for probability of distribution of the studied sand flies showed high contribution of climatological and topographical variables to predict the potential distribution of three vector species. Isothermality was found to be an environmental variable with the highest gain when used in isolation for Ph. kandelakii and Ph. major s.l., while for Ph. alexandri, the most effective variable was precipitation of the coldest quarter. The results of this study present the first prediction on distribution of sand fly vectors of VL in Iran. The predicted distributions were matched with the disease‐endemic areas in the country, while it was found that there were some unaffected areas with the potential transmission. More comprehensive studies are recommended on the ecology and vector competence of VL vectors in the country.
Numerical Investigation of Soot Formation in Turbulent Diffusion Flame With Strong Turbulence–Chemistry Interaction
Authors: Manedhar Reddy B. , De Ashoke , Yadav Rakesh
Published: May 2015

The present work is aimed at examining the ability of different models in predicting soot formation in “Delft flame III,” which is a nonpremixed pilot stabilized natural gas flame. The turbulence–chemistry interactions are modeled using a steady laminar flamelet model (SLFM). One-step and two-step models are used to describe the formation, growth, and oxidation of soot particles. One-step is an empirical model which solves the soot mass fraction equation. The two-step models are semi-empirical models, where the soot formation is modeled by solving the governing transport equations for the soot mass fraction and normalized radical nuclei concentration. The effect of radiative heat transfer due to gas and soot particulates is included using P1 approximation. The absorption coefficient of the mixture is modeled using the weighted sum of gray gases model (WSGGM). The turbulence–chemistry interaction effects on soot formation are studied using a single-variable probability density function (PDF) in terms of a normalized temperature or mixture fraction. The results shown in this work clearly elucidate the effect of radiation and turbulence–chemistry interaction on soot formation. The soot volume fraction decreases with the introduction of radiation interactions, which is consistence with the theoretical predictions. It has also been observed in the current work that the soot volume fraction is sensitive to the variable used in the PDF to incorporate the turbulence interactions.
Phase-Change Materials for Transient Cooling of a Heater Array in a High Aspect Ratio Channel in the Presence of Mean Flow
Authors: Bhattacharya A. , Rajendran Senthil , Varadarajan Krishnakumar
Published: May 2015

This paper explores the effectiveness of phase-change material (PCM) for cooling of a discrete array of heat sources in low form factor channels in the presence of mean flow. The alkane n-Eicosane was chosen as the material for this work. A parametric experimental study was conducted on an array of heaters that simulate the heat dissipating components in a low form factor portable electronic device. The effects of the clearance at the top of the devices, thickness/volume of the PCM, as well as the mean flow velocity were studied under uniform and nonuniform patterns. It was found that the cooling effect of the PCM in the time frame considered reduces with increase in the mean flow Reynolds number due to its delayed melting. Thus, the cooling effect in a natural convection environment is higher compared to one with mean flow. The thickness of the PCM increases its effectiveness for a certain threshold value beyond which we reach a region of diminishing returns. The results are presented as design curves in terms of nondimensional parameters. The use of thin spreader inside the PCM pack improves its cooling effectiveness due to better lateral spreading. However, the cooling time for the n-Eicosane is not negligible and can be a potential challenge under repeated cyclic loads.
Numerical Analysis of a Kerosene-Fueled Scramjet Combustor
Authors: Dharavath Malsur , Manna P. , Sinha P. K. , Chakraborty Debasis
Published: May 2015

A kerosene-fueled scramjet combustor was numerically analyzed in order to meet the requirement of thrust for a hypersonic test vehicle. The internal configuration of the fuel injection struts and fuel injection was arrived through computational fluid dynamics (CFD) study. The combustor was tested in the hypersonic test facility at DRDL. Numerical simulations were carried out along with facility nozzle (from throat onward) both for nonreacting and reacting flow. Three-dimensional (3D) Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) equations are solved along with k–ε turbulence model. Single-step chemical reaction with Lagrangian particle tracking method (LPTM) is used for combustion of kerosene fuel. Fairly good match of the top wall pressure has been obtained with experimental data for both nonreacting and reacting flows. Effects of mass flow rate of incoming vitiated air and fuel flow have been studied numerically in details. Top wall pressure distributions have been found to decrease with the decrease of the mass flow rate of vitiated air. Significant drop of wall pressure, higher thrust per unit fuel flow, and combustion efficiency have been observed with the decrease of fuel flow.
Genome Sequence of an Alphabaculovirus Isolated from the Oak Looper,
Lambdina fiscellaria,
Contains a Putative 2-Kilobase-Pair Transposable Element Encoding a Transposase and a FLYWCH Domain-Containing Protein
Authors: Rohrmann George F. , Erlandson Martin A. , Theilmann David A.
Published: May 2015

The genome sequence of an alphabaculovirus isolated from
Lambdina fiscellaria
indicated that it is a novel member of a group II lineage. A putative transposable element was identified that contained two genes, including a transposase ortholog. These genes were most closely related to genes of the pea aphid
, Acyrthosiphon pisum.
Draft Genome Sequences of Three Capnocytophaga canimorsus Strains Isolated from Septic Patients
Authors: Manfredi Pablo , Renzi Francesco , Cornelis Guy R.
Published: May 2015

Capnocytophaga canimorsus
is a bacterium from the normal oral flora of dogs and cats that causes rare generalized infections in humans. In an attempt to determine whether infections could be caused by a subset of strains and to identify pathogenicity factors, we sequenced the genomes of three strains isolated from human infections.
Draft Genome Sequences of Three Capnocytophaga cynodegmi Strains Isolated from the Oral Cavity of Healthy Dogs
Authors: Manfredi Pablo , Renzi Francesco , Cornelis Guy R.
Published: May 2015

Here, we present the draft genome sequences of three strains of
Capnocytophaga cynodegmi
. In contrast to the very close relationship among them,
C. cynodegmi
and
Capnocytophaga canimorsus
differ dramatically in terms of virulence in humans. Comparative genomics provided some understanding on how
Capnocytophaga
species may switch from being dog commensals to human pathogens.
Draft Genome Sequence of Aneurinibacillus tyrosinisolvens LL-002
T
, Which Possesses Some Pseudouridine Synthases
Authors: Tsubouchi Taishi , Nishi Shinro , Maruyama Tadashi , Hatada Yuji
Published: May 2015

We report the 5.7-Mb draft genome sequence of
Aneurinibacillus tyrosinisolvens
strain LL-002
T
, isolated from organic- and methane-rich sea sediments. The draft genome sequence of strain LL-002
T
consists of 5,693,818 bp in 136 contigs, with a G+C content of 44.5%, 5,946 potential coding sequences (CDS), 2 rRNAs, and 39 tRNAs.
Genome Sequence of Banana Streak MY Virus from the Pacific Ocean Island of Tonga
Authors: Stainton Daisy , Halafihi Mana’ia , Collings David A. , Varsani Arvind
Published: May 2015

Banana streak disease is caused by a variety of banana-infecting badnaviruses. A genome of the episomal form of a banana streak MY virus was recovered from an infected banana plant sampled on Vava’u Island, Tonga, and shares >98% pairwise identity with the six other genomes available in public databases.
Genome Sequence of Lactobacillus curieae CCTCC M 2011381
T
, a Novel Producer of Gamma-aminobutyric Acid
Authors: Wang Ying , Wang Yu , Lang Chong , Wei Dongzhi , Xu Ping , Xie Jingli
Published: May 2015

Lactobacillus curieae
CCTCC M 2011381
T
is a novel species of the genus
Lactobacillus
and a gamma-aminobutyric acid producer that was isolated from stinky tofu brine. Here, we present a 2.19-Mb assembly of its genome, which may provide further insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying its beneficial properties.
Complete Genome Sequence of Listeria monocytogenes N2306, a Strain Associated with the 2013-2014 Listeriosis Outbreak in Switzerland
Authors: Tasara Taurai , Ebner Rebecca , Klumpp Jochen , Stephan Roger
Published: May 2015

We present the complete genome sequence of
Listeria monocytogenes
N2306, a serotype 4b clinical strain isolated during the 2013-2014 nationwide listeriosis outbreak in Switzerland.
Complete Genome Sequence of Corynebacterium camporealensis DSM 44610, Isolated from the Milk of a Manchega Sheep with Subclinical Mastitis
Authors: Rückert Christian , Albersmeier Andreas , Winkler Anika , Tauch Andreas
Published: May 2015

Corynebacterium camporealensis
has been isolated in pure culture from milk samples of dairy sheep affected by subclinical mastitis. The complete genome sequence of the type strain DSM 44610, recovered from milk of a Manchega sheep, comprises 2,451,810 bp with a mean G+C content of 59.41% and 2,249 protein-coding genes.