bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of conservation strip and crop type on natural enemies ofDelia radicum
Authors: Nilsson U. , Rännbäck L.‐M. , Anderson P. , Björkman M. , Futter M. , Rämert B.
Published: August 2015

This 3‐year field study investigated the combined effect of floral resources and perennial shelter habitats (i.e. conservation strips), and crop rotation in supporting natural enemies of the cabbages root fly,Delia radicum. Habitat manipulation with conservation strips increased the overall catches of hymenopteran parasitoids. However, conservation strips did not increase parasitism by either of the two dominant parasitoid species,Trybliographa rapaeandAleochara bipustulata, in any study year. In fact, higher parasitism was found in control plots in the second year. This could be explained by parasitoid mobility and higher patch detectability, as more plants in the control plots were infested withD. radicumlarvae. Conservation strips did not result in increased predation ofD. radicumeggs. However, the activity densities of twoBembidionspecies were correlated with egg predation. The species assemblage distribution of epigeal predators was best explained by seasonal period, followed by year and, to a low extent, crop type, while treatment with conservation strips had no effect. However, during the egg laying peak ofD. radicum, a higher number ofA. bipustulata, an important larval predator was observed in conservation strips during one study year. In conclusion, positive effects of conservation strips were demonstrated for abundance of some natural enemies ofD. radicum, but a consistent increase in performance could not be adequately demonstrated due to experimental set‐up, the short timescale and the complex landscape in which our study site was located.
Common pitfalls when testing additivity of treatment mixtures with chi‐square analyses
Authors: Pallmann P. , Schaarschmidt F.
Published: August 2015

Studying interactions of multiple pesticides applied simultaneously in a mixture is a common task in phytopathology. Statistical methods are employed to test whether the treatment components influence each other's efficacy in a promotive or inhibitory way (synergistic or antagonistic interaction) or rather act independent of one another (additivity). The trouble is that widely used procedures based on chi‐square tests are often seriously flawed, either because people apply them in a preposterous way or because the method simply does not fit the problem at hand. Browsing recent volumes of entomological journals, we found that numerous researchers have (in all likelihood unwittingly) analysed their data as if they had had a sample size of 100 or, equally bad, a sample size of one! We show how to avoid such poor practices and further argue that chi‐square testing is, even if applied correctly (meaning that no technical errors are made), a limited purpose tool for assessing treatment interactions.
Systemic review of the prevention of pit and fissure caries of permanent molars by resin sealants in children in China
Authors: Hou Jun , Gu Ying , Zhu Ling , Hu Yukung , Sun Ming , Xue Haowei
Published: August 2015

Aim

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the relationship between pit and fissure sealants and the prevention of dental caries in permanent molars of children in China.

Methods

The Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions was followed. Articles published in English and Chinese from 2002 to 2013 were selected. All these studies were randomized clinical trials related to pit and fissure sealants on caries prevention. Data were analyzed using Software Review Manager 5.1.

Results

A search of the four largest Chinese medical literature databases and the PubMed/Medline database yielded a total of 397 clinical research studies about the effects of pit and fissure sealants on the prevention of dental caries; 20 original research studies were selected. In this meta‐analysis, a total of 12 187 participants were included. Statistical analyses demonstrated a significant association between pit and fissure sealants and dental caries prevention for a 6‐month follow‐up period (combined odds ratio = 0.06, 95% CI: 0.01, 0.32, P < 0.0001). For other follow ups, there was a trend in pit and fissure sealants preventing the occurrence of dental caries.

Conclusion

Current clinical evidence suggests that pit and fissure sealants are effective for dental caries prevention. Sealants should be placed as part of an overall caries prevention approach. Further research with larger sample sizes and rigorously‐designed clinical trials are required to corroborate the current results.
Use of genotype‐environment interactions to elucidate the pattern of maize root plasticity to nitrogen deficiency
Authors: Li Pengcheng , Zhuang Zhongjuan , Cai Hongguang , Cheng Shuai , Soomro Ayaz Ali , Liu Zhigang , Gu Riliang , Mi Guohua , Yuan Lixing , Chen Fanjun
Published: August 2015

Maize (Zea mays L.) root morphology exhibits a high degree of phenotypic plasticity to nitrogen (N) deficiency, but the underlying genetic architecture remains to be investigated. Using an advanced BC4F3 population, we investigated the root growth plasticity under two contrasted N levels and identified the quantitative trait loci (QTLs) with QTL‐environment (Q × E) interaction effects. Principal components analysis (PCA) on changes of root traits to N deficiency (ΔLN‐HN) showed that root length and biomass contributed for 45.8% in the same magnitude and direction on the first PC, while root traits scattered highly on PC2 and PC3. Hierarchical cluster analysis on traits for ΔLN‐HN further assigned the BC4F3 lines into six groups, in which the special phenotypic responses to N deficiency was presented. These results revealed the complicated root plasticity of maize in response to N deficiency that can be caused by genotype‐environment (G × E) interactions. Furthermore, QTL mapping using a multi‐environment analysis identified 35 QTLs for root traits. Nine of these QTLs exhibited significant Q × E interaction effects. Taken together, our findings contribute to understanding the phenotypic and genotypic pattern of root plasticity to N deficiency, which will be useful for developing maize tolerance cultivars to N deficiency.
The Benefits of Goal Adjustment Capacities for Well‐Being Among Women With Breast Cancer: Potential Mechanisms of Action
Authors: Mens Maria G. , Scheier Michael F.
Published: August 2015

Breast cancer can seriously disrupt a person's important life goals. As such, the ability to adjust one's goals may be critical for well‐being. The present study investigated the relationships between disengagement/reengagement capacity and well‐being among women with breast cancer, as well as several potential mechanisms (intrusive thoughts, life purpose, and physical activity) that could explain these relationships. The sample consisted of 230 women with early‐stage (n = 172) or late‐stage (n = 58) breast cancer, who were followed prospectively for 8 months. Well‐being measures consisted of global mental health, perceived physical health, positive/negative affect, and sleep efficiency. Disengagement capacity did not predict any outcome variable. In contrast, reengagement capacity prospectively predicted changes in global mental health, positive affect, negative affect, sleep efficiency, life purpose, and physical activity. Life purpose mediated the prospective relationship between reengagement capacity and multiple aspects of well‐being. The relationships between purpose and positive/negative affect were reciprocal over time. Results also suggested that physical activity is not a mediator, but is in fact a result of the effect of reengagement capacity on well‐being. The results demonstrate that reengagement capacity is important for well‐being among women with breast cancer.
A Nonparametric Model for Stationary Time Series
Authors: Antoniano‐Villalobos Isadora , Walker Stephen G.
Published: August 2015

Stationary processes are a natural choice as statistical models for time series data, owing to their good estimating properties. In practice, however, alternative models are often proposed that sacrifice stationarity in favour of the greater modelling flexibility required by many real‐life applications. We present a family of time‐homogeneous Markov processes with nonparametric stationary densities, which retain the desirable statistical properties for inference, while achieving substantial modelling flexibility, matching those achievable with certain non‐stationary models. A latent extension of the model enables exact inference through a trans‐dimensional Markov chain Monte Carlo method. Numerical illustrations are presented.
Animal Spirits and the Business Cycle: Empirical Evidence from Moment Matching
Authors: Jang Tae‐Seok , Sacht Stephen
Published: August 2015

In this article, we empirically examine a hybrid New‐Keynesian model with heterogeneous bounded rational agents who may adopt an optimistic or pessimistic attitude—so called animal spirits—toward future movements of the output and inflation gap. The model is estimated via the simulated method of moments using Euro Area data from 1975Q1 to 2009Q4. In addition, we compare its empirical performance to the standard model with rational expectations. Our empirical results show that the model‐generated auto‐ and cross‐covariances of the output, inflation and nominal interest rate gap can provide a good approximation of the empirical second moments.
Comparison of the effects of Korean mindfulness‐based stress reduction, walking, and patient education in diabetes mellitus
Authors: Jung Hee Young , Lee Haejung , Park Jina
Published: August 2015

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of Korean mindfulness‐based stress reduction (K‐MBSR), walking, and patient education regarding diabetes mellitus (DM) on stress response, glycemic control, and vascular inflammation in patients with diabetes mellitus. A cluster randomized trial including 56 adults with diabetes mellitus (K‐MBSR group = 21, walking group = 18, patient education group = 17) was conducted between 13 July and 14 September 2012. The questionnaire included the Diabetes Distress Scale and Perceived Stress Response Inventory. Fasting blood samples were used to measure levels of cortisol, blood glucose, plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1), and tissue plasminogen activator (t‐PA). There were no statistically significant differences between the effects of K‐MBSR, walking, and patient education on stress, glycemic control, or vascular inflammation. However, in the K‐MBSR and walking groups, significant reductions in the levels of serum cortisol and PAI‐1 were observed. A significant reduction in psychological responses to stress was observed in the walking and patient education groups. Longitudinal studies could provide better insight into the impact of K‐MBSR, walking, and patient education on health outcomes in adults with diabetes mellitus.
Co‐expression of tonoplast Cation/H+ antiporter and H+‐pyrophosphatase from xerophyte Zygophyllum xanthoxylum improves alfalfa plant growth under salinity, drought and field conditions
Authors: Bao Ai‐Ke , Du Bao‐Qiang , Touil Leila , Kang Peng , Wang Qiang‐Long , Wang Suo‐Min
Published: August 2015

Salinity and drought are major environmental factors limiting the growth and productivity of alfalfa worldwide as this economically important legume forage is sensitive to these kinds of abiotic stress. In this study, transgenic alfalfa lines expressing both tonoplast NXH and H+‐PPase genes, ZxNHX and ZxVP1‐1 from the xerophyte Zygophyllum xanthoxylum L., were produced via Agrobacterium tumefaciens‐mediated transformation. Compared with wild‐type (WT) plants, transgenic alfalfa plants co‐expressing ZxNHX and ZxVP1‐1 grew better with greater plant height and dry mass under normal or stress conditions (NaCl or water‐deficit) in the greenhouse. The growth performance of transgenic alfalfa plants was associated with more Na+, K+ and Ca2+ accumulation in leaves and roots, as a result of co‐expression of ZxNHX and ZxVP1‐1. Cation accumulation contributed to maintaining intracellular ions homoeostasis and osmoregulation of plants and thus conferred higher leaf relative water content and greater photosynthesis capacity in transgenic plants compared to WT when subjected to NaCl or water‐deficit stress. Furthermore, the transgenic alfalfa co‐expressing ZxNHX and ZxVP1‐1 also grew faster than WT plants under field conditions, and most importantly, exhibited enhanced photosynthesis capacity by maintaining higher net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, and water‐use efficiency than WT plants. Our results indicate that co‐expression of tonoplast NHX and H+‐PPase genes from a xerophyte significantly improved the growth of alfalfa, and enhanced its tolerance to high salinity and drought. This study laid a solid basis for reclaiming and restoring saline and arid marginal lands as well as improving forage yield in northern China.
Correlates of Sun Safety Practices in a Racially and Ethnically Diverse Sample of Adolescents: Implications for Skin Cancer Prevention Interventions
Authors: Mays Darren , Hawkins Kirsten B. , Tyc Vida L. , Atkins Michael B. , Tercyak Kenneth P.
Published: August 2015

To guide skin cancer preventive interventions, this study examined correlates of sun safety behaviors in a racially and ethnically diverse sample of 407 adolescents completing a self‐report survey at the time of their pediatric wellness visit. Adolescents regularly practiced few sun safety behaviors, and greater interest in cancer prevention was associated with more sun safety behaviors, ever smoking cigarettes was associated with fewer sun safety behaviors, and nonwhite minority adolescents practiced fewer sun safety behaviors than non‐Hispanic whites. Clinical preventive interventions to increase sun safety practices among adolescents of all racial and ethnic backgrounds could be integrated into general cancer prevention education, including combining skin cancer prevention with antismoking counseling.
Transient receptor potential melastatin 8 gene polymorphism is associated with cold‐induced airway hyperresponsiveness in bronchial asthma
Authors: Naumov Denis E , Perelman Juliy M , Kolosov Victor P , Potapova Tatyana A , Maksimov Vladimir N , Zhou Xiangdong
Published: August 2015

Background and objective

Cold‐induced airway hyperresponsiveness (CAH) is common in bronchial asthma (BA) patients and represents a problem for those living in cold climate. Transient receptor potential melastatin 8 (TRPM8) channel is the main cold temperature sensor in humans that could mediate cold response in asthmatics with CAH. No associations between TRPM8 gene polymorphisms and CAH have been reported.

Methods

The present study involved 123 BA patients. CAH was assessed by 3‐min isocapnic (5% CO2) cold air (−20°C) hyperventilation challenge. The c.750G > C (rs11562975), c.1256G > A (rs7593557), c.3048C > T (rs11563208) and c.3174C > G (rs11563071) polymorphisms of TRPM8 gene were genotyped by allele‐specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and PCR with subsequent restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis.

Results:

GC genotype and C allele carriers of the c.750G > C (rs11562975) polymorphism were more frequently observed to exhibit CAH. The estimated odds ratio for the GC genotype was 3.73 95%CI (1.48; 9.37), P = 0.005. Furthermore, GC heterozygotes had a prominent decrease in forced expiratory volume in 1 s after the challenge as compared to GG homozygotes (−12% (−16; −8.1) vs −6.45% (−11; −2.1), P < 0.001). GC carriers also had a marked reduction in other spirometric parameters.

Conclusions

The GC variant of the TRPM8:c.750G > C (rs11562975) polymorphism is associated with CAH in patients with BA, which suggests a potential role of TRPM8 in CAH development.
Is Seeing Believing? Perceptions of Wildfire Risk Over Time
Authors: Champ Patricia A , Brenkert‐Smith Hannah
Published: August 2015

Ongoing challenges to understanding how hazard exposure and disaster experiences influence perceived risk lead us to ask: Is seeing believing? We approach risk perception by attending to two components of overall risk perception: perceived probability of an event occurring and perceived consequences if an event occurs. Using a two‐period longitudinal data set collected from a survey of homeowners living in a fire‐prone area of Colorado, we find that study participants’ initial high levels of perceived probability and consequences of a wildfire did not change substantially after extreme wildfire events in the intervening years. More specifically, perceived probability of a wildfire changed very little, whereas the perceived consequences of a wildfire went up a bit. In addition, models of risk perceptions show that the two components of overall risk perception are correlated with somewhat different factors, and experience is not found to be one of the strongest correlates with perceived risk. These results reflect the importance of distinguishing the components of overall risk and modeling them separately to facilitate additional insights into the complexities of risk perceptions, factors related to perceived risk, and change in risk perceptions over time.
Residential Multi‐Locality Studies – The Added Value for Research on Families and Second Homes
Authors: Schier Michaela , Hilti Nicola , Schad Helmut , Tippel Cornelia , Dittrich‐Wesbuer Andrea , Monz Anna
Published: August 2015

This conceptual paper introduces key elements of residential multi‐locality studies, arguing that a relational and processual analysis helps understand the interplay of mobilities and stabilities and of presences and absences which are typical of the practices of multi‐local living. Based on this perspective, research on familial forms of living and on second homes is re‐interpreted. It is discussed how these research fields may contribute to progress in residential multi‐locality studies and, on the other hand, which of their aspects would be better highlighted through the conceptual lens of multi‐locality. The epistemological added value of this perspective is seen in the sensitivity towards the emergence of new forms of living and towards the ways their stability is achieved in spite of distance. This provides deeper insight into the geographies of families in mobile societies and enables a more profound assessment of the significance of residential economies.
The Logic of Multi‐Local Living Arrangements: Methodological Challenges And the Potential of Qualitative Approaches
Authors: Schier Michaela , Schlinzig Tino , Montanari Giulia
Published: August 2015

Although historically by no means an unknown phenomenon, the social and cultural sciences are rediscovering multi‐local living and residence. Research on residential multi‐locality focuses especially on practices of multiple local daily life management, appropriations and their contextualisation, attachment, exchange, mobility and interactions between social relationships at different locations. Aside from quantitative approaches, research attempts to open up empirically observable dynamics and new qualities of multi‐local life at a deep level. The consideration of the development of multi‐local living arrangements in contemporary societies raises conceptual as well as methodological questions, and demands new and revised methods for investigating the phenomenon. After a phenomenological outline of residential multi‐locality, the paper formulates requirements to be met by research designs, then outlines, with reference to a study of multi‐locality of the family, how the subject may be treated in the framework of qualitative methodology and indicates potentials and limitations of the suggested approach.
Mammalophilic feeding behaviour of Culex quinquefasciatus mosquitoes collected in the cities of Chetumal and Cancun, Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico
Authors: Janssen Nele , Fernandez‐Salas Ildefonso , Díaz González Esteban Eduardo , Gaytan‐Burns Alejandro , Medina‐de la Garza Carlos E. , Sanchez‐Casas Rosa María , Börstler Jessica , Cadar Daniel , Schmidt‐Chanasit Jonas , Jöst Hanna
Published: August 2015

Objective

The studie describes the blood‐feeding behaviour of mosquitoes in Mexico, to understand host–vector relationships and dynamics of disease transmission.

Methods

From September 2012 to November 2012 and in November 2013, 911 blood‐fed Cx. quinquefasciatus mosquitoes were collected with aspirators inside houses in Chetumal and Cancun. Blood meals were analysed by PCR and subsequent Sanger sequencing of the cytochrome b gene.

Results

93.3% of mosquitoes fed on mammals, 6.5% on birds and 0.2% on reptiles. The most frequent vertebrate hosts were humans (65.4%), dogs (23.2%), chicken (5.4%), cattle (2.2%) and cats (1.8%).

Conclusions

Cx. quinquefasciatus most frequently fed on humans and dogs in both studied cities, which is in contrast to a previous study that demonstrated lower prevalence of mammalian blood in engorged Cx. quinquefasciatus.
Concentrations of serum amyloid A and plasma fibrinogen in horses undergoing emergency abdominal surgery
Authors: Daniel Alexander J. , Leise Britta S. , Burgess Brandy A. , Morley Paul S. , Cloninger Madison , Hassel Diana M.
Published: August 2015

Objective

To compare the perioperative response of serum amyloid A (SAA) to fibrinogen in horses requiring exploratory celiotomy for colic and to determine if SAA could be used to predict complications and outcome.

Design

Prospective observational clinical study.

Setting

University teaching hospital.

Animals

Eighteen horses undergoing exploratory celiotomy for colic. Inclusion criteria for the study included survival and anesthetic recovery from exploratory celiotomy, no history of surgery within the past year.

Interventions

Blood was obtained via jugular venipuncture before surgery (time 0) and at 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours after recovery from anesthesia.

Measurements and Main Results

Quantitative and semiquantitative fibrinogen, SAA, total nucleated cell counts, and total protein were evaluated at each time point. Multivariable linear regression was used to assess differences at each time point and after grouping horses according to duration of colic prior to surgery, strangulating surgical lesion or not, presence of systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) on admission, and postsurgical complications.

Significant (P < 0.05) increases in SAA concentrations occurred in all cases after surgery compared to fibrinogen concentration, which only demonstrated a mild, clinically insignificant increase postsurgery. SAA concentrations were also significantly increased (P < 0.05) in cases identified with SIRS prior to surgery and postoperatively at 48 (P = 0.05) and 72 hours (P = 0.02) in horses that developed complications.

Conclusions

Measurement of SAA is a more sensitive indicator of inflammation than fibrinogen in the perioperative period of horses requiring exploratory celiotomy for colic. Serial measurement of SAA at 48, 72, and 96 hours after surgery may be helpful to determine risk of complications and guide postoperative management. Measurement of SAA on admission also allows for quantification of SIRS when it is detected clinically.
Blood temperature and perfusion to exercising and non‐exercising human limbs
Authors: González‐Alonso José , Calbet José A. L. , Boushel Robert , Helge Jørn W. , Søndergaard Hans , Munch‐Andersen Thor , van Hall Gerrit , Mortensen Stefan P. , Secher Niels H.
Published: August 2015

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Temperature‐sensitive mechanisms are thought to contribute to blood‐flow regulation, but the relationship between exercising and non‐exercising limb perfusion and blood temperature is not established.

What is the main finding and its importance?

The close coupling among perfusion, blood temperature and aerobic metabolism in exercising and non‐exercising extremities across different exercise modalities and activity levels and the tight association between limb vasodilatation and increases in plasma ATP suggest that both temperature‐ and metabolism‐sensitive mechanisms are important for the control of human limb perfusion, possibly by activating ATP release from the erythrocytes.

Temperature‐sensitive mechanisms may contribute to blood‐flow regulation, but the influence of temperature on perfusion to exercising and non‐exercising human limbs is not established. Blood temperature (TB), blood flow and oxygen uptake ( in the legs and arms were measured in 16 healthy humans during 90 min of leg and arm exercise and during exhaustive incremental leg or arm exercise. During prolonged exercise, leg blood flow (LBF) was fourfold higher than arm blood flow (ABF) in association with higher TB and limb Leg and arm vascular conductance during exercise compared with rest was related closely to TB (r2 = 0.91; P < 0.05), plasma ATP (r2 = 0.94; P < 0.05) and limb (r2 = 0.99; P < 0.05). During incremental leg exercise, LBF increased in association with elevations in TB and limb whereas ABF, arm TB and remained largely unchanged. During incremental arm exercise, both ABF and LBF increased in relationship to similar increases in In 12 trained males, increases in femoral TB and LBF during incremental leg exercise were mirrored by similar pulmonary artery TB and cardiac output dynamics, suggesting that processes in active limbs dominate central temperature and perfusion responses. The present data reveal a close coupling among perfusion, TB and aerobic metabolism in exercising and non‐exercising extremities and a tight association between limb vasodilatation and increases in plasma ATP. These findings suggest that temperature and contribute to the regulation of limb perfusion through control of intravascular ATP.
ANCF Consistent Rotation-Based Finite Element Formulation
Authors: Shabana Ahmed A.
Published: August 2015

In this technical brief, a consistent rotation-based formulation is proposed using the absolute nodal coordinate formulation (ANCF) kinematic description. The proposed formulation defines a unique rotation field, employs one interpolation, captures shear deformations, does not suffer from the redundancy problem encountered when using large rotation vector formulations, allows for systematically describing curved geometry, and leads to elastic force definitions that eliminate high-frequency modes associated with the deformation of the cross section. The drawback of this formulation, as it is the case with the large rotation vector formulations, is the nonlinearity of the inertia forces including nonzero Coriolis and centrifugal forces. Furthermore, the formulation does not capture deformation modes that can be captured using the more general ANCF finite elements. Nonetheless, the proposed method is consistent with the continuum mechanics general description, can be related to computational geometry methods, and can be used to develop beam, plate, and shell models without violation of basic mechanics principles.
Redundancy Allocation Optimization for Multistate Systems With Failure Interactions Using Semi-Markov Process
Authors: Wang Jing , Li Mian
Published: August 2015

Failure interactions and multiple states are two common phenomena in engineering systems. However, most of the redundancy allocation problems assume binary states and ignore failure interactions, which will cause inaccurate and misleading results. Although some research work focuses on the multistate systems, failure interactions have been ignored. This paper, for the first time, solves the redundancy allocation problems considering the systems having both multiple states and failure interactions. The system studied in this paper is a kind of multistate system containing a main subsystem and an auxiliary subsystem with the failure interaction existing from the auxiliary subsystem to the main subsystem. Semi-Markov process is proposed as the model for the system analysis, and a reliability measure, availability, is obtained based on the proposed semi-Markov process models. The system availability is used as the constraint in the redundancy allocation problem. A case study from a navy application is presented to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed method.
Physical Activity and Variation in Momentary Behavioral Cognitions: An Ecological Momentary Assessment Study
Authors: Pickering Trevor A. , Huh Jimi , Intille Stephen , Liao Yue , Pentz Mary Ann , Dunton Genevieve F.
Published: August 2015

Background:

Decisions to perform moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) involve behavioral cognitive processes that may differ within individuals depending on the situation.

Methods:

Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) was used to examine the relationships of momentary behavioral cognitions (ie, self-efficacy, outcome expectancy, intentions) with MVPA (measured by accelerometer). A sample of 116 adults (mean age, 40.3 years; 72.4% female) provided real-time EMA responses via mobile phones across 4 days. Multilevel models were used to test whether momentary behavioral cognitions differed across contexts and were associated with subsequent MVPA. Mixed-effects location scale models were used to examine whether subject-level means and within-subjects variances in behavioral cognitions were associated with average daily MVPA.

Results:

Momentary behavioral cognitions differed across contexts for self-efficacy (P = .007) but not for outcome expectancy (P = .53) or intentions (P = .16). Momentary self-efficacy, intentions, and their interaction predicted MVPA within the subsequent 2 hours (Ps < .01). Average daily MVPA was positively associated with within-subjects variance in momentary self-efficacy and intentions for physical activity (Ps < .05).

Conclusions:

Although momentary behavioral cognitions are related to subsequent MVPA, adults with higher average MVPA have more variation in physical activity self-efficacy and intentions. Performing MVPA may depend more on how much behavioral cognitions vary across the day than whether they are generally high or low.
The Impact of Playworks on Students’ Physical Activity by Race/Ethnicity: Findings from a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: James-Burdumy Susanne , Beyler Nicholas , Borradaile Kelley , Bleeker Martha , Maccarone Alyssa , Fortson Jane
Published: August 2015

Background:

The Playworks program places coaches in low-income urban schools to engage students in physical activity during recess. The purpose of this study was to estimate the impact of Playworks on students’ physical activity separately for Hispanic, non-Hispanic black, and non-Hispanic white students.

Methods:

Twenty-seven schools from 6 cities were randomly assigned to treatment and control groups. Accelerometers were used to measure the intensity of students’ physical activity, the number of steps taken, and the percentage of time in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) during recess. The impact of Playworks was estimated by comparing average physical activity outcomes in treatment and control groups.

Results:

Compared with non-Hispanic black students in control schools, non-Hispanic black students in Playworks schools recorded 338 more intensity counts per minute, 4.9 more steps per minute, and 6.3 percentage points more time in MVPA during recess. Playworks also had an impact on the number of steps per minute during recess for Hispanic students but no significant impact on the physical activity of non-Hispanic white students.

Conclusions:

The impact of Playworks was larger among minority students than among non-Hispanic white students. One possible explanation is that minority students in non-Playworks schools typically engaged in less physical activity, suggesting that there is more room for improvement.
Group Physical Activity Intervention for Childhood Cancer Survivors: A Pilot Study
Authors: Ruble Kathy , Scarvalone Susan , Gallicchio Lisa , Davis Catherine , Wells Diane
Published: August 2015

Background:

: Inadequate physical activity (PA) in childhood cancer survivors may lead to compromised health outcomes. The purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate the feasibility and effect of a PA intervention in childhood cancer survivors ages 8–12 who report < 1 hour of moderate-to-vigorous physical (MVPA) per day.

Methods:

Twenty survivors were randomized to a 6-month group PA intervention or to a control group. A pre/post measure of MVPA was completed by all participants, and a pre/post measure of self-efficacy was completed by the intervention group. Analysis included measures of feasibility, change in percentage of awake time spent in MVPA, self-efficacy scores, and correlations in MVPA and self-efficacy.

Results:

All feasibility parameters were confirmed. Increases in percent of awake time spent in MVPA were seen in 67% of the intervention group and 14% of the control group. A medium effect size (r = 0.55) was calculated for the correlation between change in MVPA and change in total self-efficacy scores; the largest effect size (r = 0.62) was found for the subscale for adequacy.

Conclusions:

Increases in MVPA can be seen in childhood cancer survivors who participate in a group intervention that includes support of self-efficacy.
Active Transport, Physical Activity, and Distance Between Home and School in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Duncan Scott , White Kate , Mavoa Suzanne , Stewart Tom , Hinckson Erica , Schofield Grant
Published: August 2015

Background:

The distance between home and school is the most consistent predictor of active transport in youth: the closer an individual lives to school, the more likely they are to use active transport. While this suggests that it is preferable to live as close to school as possible, the limited physical activity accumulated during short trips may not offer substantial benefits to active transporters.

Methods:

The current study investigated the predicted physical activity benefits associated with a range of home-school distances in 595 young people aged 5 to 16 years (Years 1 to 11). Physical activity was measured using sealed pedometers over 7 days. Participants’ home addresses and usual transport mode to and from school were collected via a questionnaire completed by parents (Years 1 to 6) and participants (Years 7 to 11).

Results:

A nonlinear relationship between predicted weekday activity and distance was detected, such that the high probability of active transport at short distances was offset by the low physical activity associated with walking short distances.

Conclusions:

A distance of approximately 2 km was associated with the best physical activity outcomes related to active transport (9% to 15% increase on weekdays). These findings have potential implications for future interventions and for planning residential developments or facilities.
The Seated Inactivity Trial (SIT): Physical Activity and Dietary Outcomes Associated With 8 Weeks of Imposed Sedentary Time
Authors: Cull Brooke J. , Haub Mark. D. , Rosenkranz Richard R. , Lawler Thomas , Rosenkranz Sara K.
Published: August 2015

Background:

Sedentary time is an independent risk factor for chronic diseases and mortality. It is unknown whether active adults alter their dietary and/or physical activity behaviors in response to imposed sedentary time, possibly modifying risk. The aim of this study was to determine whether imposed sedentary time would alter typical behaviors of active adults.

Methods:

Sixteen physically active, young adults were randomized to the no-intervention control (CON, n = 8) group or the sedentary-intervention (SIT, n = 8) group. SIT participants attended monitored sedentary sessions (8 wk, 10 h/wk). Assessments including diet and physical activity occurred at baseline, week 4, and week 9.

Results:

There were no differences (P > .05) between CON and SIT groups for step counts or time spent in sedentary, light, moderate, or vigorous physical activity when comparing a week during imposed sedentary time (week 4) to baseline and week 9. At week 4, caloric intake was not different from baseline (P > .05) in either group. Caloric intake decreased significantly (P > .05) in SIT from baseline to week 9.

Conclusions:

Active adults did not alter physical activity or dietary behaviors during the imposed sedentary intervention. However, SIT reduced caloric intake from baseline to week 9, indicating a possible compensatory response to imposed sitting in active adults.
Iran's atomic czar describes the art of the deal
Authors: Stone Richard
Published: August 2015

Ali Akbar Salehi tells
Science
how he helped seal the Iran nuclear agreement.
Russian claim heats up battle to control Arctic sea floor
Authors: Laursen Lucas
Published: August 2015

New data on undersea mountains support conflicting claims to the North Pole.
Observation of tunable band gap and anisotropic Dirac semimetal state in black phosphorus
Authors: Kim Jimin , Baik Seung Su , Ryu Sae Hee , Sohn Yeongsup , Park Soohyung , Park Byeong-Gyu , Denlinger Jonathan , Yi Yeonjin , Choi Hyoung Joon , Kim Keun Su
Published: August 2015

Tuning the band gap of black phosphorus

Most materials used in electronics are semiconductors. The sizable energy gap in their electronic structure makes it easy to turn the conduction of electricity on and off. Graphene naturally lacks this band gap unless it undergoes certain modifications. Kim
et al.
studied the electronic structure of black phosphorus—a related two-dimensional material. By sprinkling potassium atoms on top of single layers of black phosphorus, the material changed from being a semiconductor to having a gapless linear dispersion similar to that of graphene.

Science
, this issue p.
723
Science, all inclusive
Authors: Malcom Shirley M.
Published: August 2015

After years of public leadership around fairness, equity, and diversity in science and engineering, the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) and its journal
Science
recently have been questioned about this leadership. AAAS is, after all, the organization that stopped all annual meetings in the “Jim Crow” South in the 1950s; that, at great expense, pulled its meeting out of Chicago to respect the ban on meeting in states that did not ratify the Equal Rights Amendment (1979); that held the first fully accessible professional meeting in Boston (1976), long before passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act; and that, in 1972, established the Committee on Opportunities in Science to advise what is now a mostly female AAAS Board of Directors on diversity issues. Long before public support of the rights of LGBTQ individuals, AAAS passed a nondiscrimination resolution (1975). The values upon which this organization is based not only remain intact, but continue to strengthen through dialogues with the scientific community and through actions that advance science for the benefit of all.
Complete Genome Sequence of Phytopathogenic Pectobacterium atrosepticum Bacteriophage Peat1
Authors: Kalischuk Melanie , Hachey John , Kawchuk Lawrence
Published: August 2015

Pectobacterium atrosepticum
is a common phytopathogen causing significant economic losses worldwide. To develop a biocontrol strategy for this blackleg pathogen of solanaceous plants,
P. atrosepticum
bacteriophage Peat1 was isolated and its genome completely sequenced. Interestingly, morphological and sequence analyses of the 45,633-bp genome revealed that phage Peat1 is a member of the family
Podoviridae
and most closely resembles the
Klebsiella pneumoniae
bacteriophage KP34. This is the first published complete genome sequence of a phytopathogenic
P. atrosepticum
bacteriophage, and details provide important information for the development of biocontrol by advancing our understanding of phage-phytopathogen interactions.
Draft Genome Sequences of Ralstonia solanacearum Race 3 Biovar 2 Strains with Different Temperature Adaptations
Authors: Yuan Kat (Xiaoli) , Cullis Jeff , Lévesque C. André , Tambong James , Chen Wen , Lewis Christopher T. , De Boer Solke H. , Li Xiang (Sean)
Published: August 2015

Ralstonia solanacearum
race 3 biovar 2 (R3bv2) causes brown rot of potato in countries with temperate climates. Here, we report two draft genome sequences of
R. solanacearum
R3bv2 NCPPB909 and CFIA906 with different temperature adaptations. Analysis of these genome sequences will provide detailed insight on virulence, functionality, and plant/pest interactions of this widely distributed and regulated pathogen.
Draft Genome Sequence of Multidrug-Resistant Enterococcus faecium Clinical Isolate VRE3, with a Sequence Type 16 Pattern and Novel Structural Arrangement of Tn
1546
Authors: Khan Saeed , Sung Kidon , Marasa Bernard , Min Seonggi , Kweon Ohgew , Nawaz Mohamed , Cerniglia Carl
Published: August 2015

Multidrug-resistant
Enterococcus faecium
has emerged as a nosocomial pathogen that may infect the body at various sites, including the gastrointestinal tract, and has serious implications in human health and disease. Here, we present the draft genome sequence of clinical strain VRE3, which exhibited a sequence type 16 (ST16) pattern and carried truncated Tn
1546
, a mobile genetic element encoding a high level of vancomycin resistance.
Complete Genome Sequence of Staphylococcus aureus FCFHV36, a Methicillin-Resistant Strain Heterogeneously Resistant to Vancomycin
Authors: McCulloch John Anthony , Silveira Alessandro Conrado de Oliveira , Lima Moraes Aline da Costa , Pérez-Chaparro Paula Juliana , Ferreira Silva Manoella , Almeida Lara Mendes , d’Azevedo Pedro Alves , Mamizuka Elsa Masae
Published: August 2015

We report here the sequence of the entire chromosome of
Staphylococcus aureus
strain FCFHV36, a methicillin-resistant strain heterogeneously intermediate to vancomycin, bearing a type II staphylococcal chromosome cassette
mec
element (SCC
mec
), belonging to multilocus sequence type (MLST) 105, and isolated from a vertebra of a patient with osteomyelitis.
High-Quality Draft Genome Sequence of Francisella tularensis subsp.
holarctica
Strain OR96-0246
Authors: Atkins L. M. , Holder M. E. , Ajami N. J. , Metcalf G. A. , Weissenberger G. M. , Wang M. , Vee V. , Han Y. , Muzny D. M. , Gibbs R. A. , Petrosino J. F.
Published: August 2015

The bacterial pathogen
Francisella tularensis
was recently renewed as a tier-one select agent.
F. tularensis
subsp.
tularensis
(type A) and
holarctica
(type B) are of clinical relevance. Here, we report the complete genome of a virulent
F. tularensis
type B strain and describe its usefulness in comparative genomics.
Identification of Nocardia Species by Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization–Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Khot Prasanna D. , Bird Brian A. , Durrant Robert J. , Fisher Mark A.
Published: August 2015

Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight mass spectrometry for identification ofNocardiaspecies remains challenging. By identifying 83.1% (64 of 77) and 80% (8 of 10) to the species and complex levels, respectively, and 94.3% (82 of 87) to the genus level, we show that an approach using routine sample preparation, an up-to-date commercial database minimally augmented with custom spectra, and testing at an early stage of growth is promising.
Persistent Infection by a Mycobacterium tuberculosis Strain That Was Theorized To Have Advantageous Properties, as It Was Responsible for a Massive Outbreak
Authors: Pérez-Lago Laura , Navarro Yurena , Montilla Pedro , Comas Iñaki , Herranz Marta , Rodríguez-Gallego Carlos , Ruiz Serrano María Jesús , Bouza Emilio , García de Viedma Darío
Published: August 2015

The strains involved in tuberculosis outbreaks are considered highly virulent and transmissible. We analyzed the case of a patient in Madrid, Spain, who was persistently infected over an 8-year period by the same Beijing
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
strain. The strain was responsible for a severe outbreak on Gran Canaria Island. The case provides us with a unique opportunity to challenge our assumptions about
M. tuberculosis
Beijing strains. No clinical/radiological findings consistent with a virulent strain were documented, and the
in vitro
growth rate of the strain in macrophages was only moderate. No secondary cases stemming from this prolonged active case were detected in the host population. The strain did not acquire resistance mutations, despite constant treatment interruptions, and it remained extremely stable, as demonstrated by the lack of single-nucleotide-polymorphism (SNP)-based differences between the sequential isolates. Our data suggest that the general assumption about
M. tuberculosis
Beijing strains having advantageous properties (in terms of virulence, transmissibility, and the tendency to acquire mutations and resistance) is not always accurate.
Generation of Live Attenuated Influenza Virus by Using Codon Usage Bias
Authors: Fan Rebecca L. Y. , Valkenburg Sophie A. , Wong Chloe K. S. , Li Olive T. W. , Nicholls John M. , Rabadan Raul , Peiris J. S. Malik , Poon Leo L. M.
Published: August 2015

Seasonal influenza epidemics and occasional pandemics threaten public health worldwide. New alternative strategies for generating recombinant viruses with vaccine potential are needed. Interestingly, influenza viruses circulating in different hosts have been found to have distinct codon usage patterns, which may reflect host adaptation. We therefore hypothesized that it is possible to make a human seasonal influenza virus that is specifically attenuated in human cells but not in eggs by converting its codon usage so that it is similar to that observed from avian influenza viruses. This approach might help to generate human live attenuated viruses without affecting their yield in eggs. To test this hypothesis, over 300 silent mutations were introduced into the genome of a seasonal H1N1 influenza virus. The resultant mutant was significantly attenuated in mammalian cells and mice, yet it grew well in embryonated eggs. A single dose of intranasal vaccination induced potent innate, humoral, and cellular immune responses, and the mutant could protect mice against homologous and heterologous viral challenges. The attenuated mutant could also be used as a vaccine master donor strain by introducing hemagglutinin and neuraminidase genes derived from other strains. Thus, our approach is a successful strategy to generate attenuated viruses for future application as vaccines.

IMPORTANCEVaccination has been one of the best protective measures in combating influenza virus infection. Current licensed influenza vaccines and their production have various limitations. Our virus attenuation strategy makes use of the codon usage biases of human and avian influenza viruses to generate a human-derived influenza virus that is attenuated in mammalian hosts. This method, however, does not affect virus replication in eggs. This makes the resultant mutants highly compatible with existing egg-based vaccine production pipelines. The viral proteins generated from the codon bias mutants are identical to the wild-type viral proteins. In addition, our massive genome-wide mutational approach further minimizes the concern over reverse mutations. The potential use of this kind of codon bias mutant as a master donor strain to generate other live attenuated viruses is also demonstrated. These findings put forward a promising live attenuated influenza vaccine generation strategy to control influenza.