bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Specific surface glycan decorations enable antimicrobial peptide resistance in plant‐beneficial pseudomonads with insect‐pathogenic properties
Authors: Kupferschmied Peter , Chai Tiancong , Flury Pascale , Blom Jochen , Smits Theo H.M. , Maurhofer Monika , Keel Christoph
Published: October 2016

Some plant‐beneficial pseudomonads can invade and kill pest insects in addition to their ability to protect plants from phytopathogens. We explored the genetic basis of O‐polysaccharide (O‐PS, O‐antigen) biosynthesis in the representative insecticidal strains Pseudomonas protegens CHA0 and Pseudomonas chlororaphis PCL1391 and investigated its role in insect pathogenicity. Both strains produce two distinct forms of O‐PS, but differ in the organization of their O‐PS biosynthesis clusters. Biosynthesis of the dominant O‐PS in both strains depends on a gene cluster similar to the O‐specific antigen (OSA) cluster of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In CHA0 and other P. protegens strains, the OSA cluster is extensively reduced and new clusters were acquired, resulting in high diversity of O‐PS structures, possibly reflecting adaptation to different hosts. CHA0 mutants lacking the short OSA form of O‐PS were significantly impaired in insect virulence in Galleria injection and Plutella feeding assays. CHA0, PCL1391, and other insecticidal pseudomonads exhibited high resistance to antimicrobial peptides, including cecropins that are central to insect immune defense. Resistance of both model strains depended on the dominant OSA‐type O‐PS. Our results suggest that O‐antigen is essential for successful insect infection and illustrate, for the first time, its importance in resistance of Pseudomonas to antimicrobial peptides.
Nurses and electronic health records in a Canadian hospital: examining the social organisation and programmed use of digitised nursing knowledge
Authors: Campbell Marie L. , Rankin Janet M.
Published: October 2016

Institutional ethnography (IE) is used to examine transformations in a professional nurse's work associated with her engagement with a hospital's electronic health record (EHR) which is being updated to integrate professional caregiving and produce more efficient and effective health care. We review in the technical and scholarly literature the practices and promises of information technology and, especially of its applications in health care, finding useful the more critical and analytic perspectives. Among the latter, scholarship on the activities of economising is important to our inquiry into the actual activities that transform ‘things’ (in our case, nursing knowledge and action) into calculable information for objective and financially relevant decision‐making. Beginning with an excerpt of observational data, we explicate observed nurse‐patient interactions, discovering in them traces of institutional ruling relations that the nurse's activation of the EHR carries into the nursing setting. The EHR, we argue, materialises and generalises the ruling relations across institutionally located caregivers; its authorised information stabilises their knowing and acting, shaping health care towards a calculated effective and efficient form. Participating in the EHR's ruling practices, nurses adopt its ruling standpoint; a transformation that we conclude needs more careful analysis and debate.
Efficacy testing of teat dip solutions used as disinfectants for the dairy industry: Antimicrobial properties
Authors: Garvey Mary , Curran Damien , Savage Michéal
Published: October 2016

The production of raw milk containing a limited number of bacterial contaminants, which retains its quality during storage, is the major task of the dairy industry. This can only be achieved with adequate regular cleaning and disinfection of the udder, milking equipment, the dairy parlour and animal housing areas. Studies were conducted to assess the efficacy of a range of dairy disinfectants on bacterial species isolated from cow udders as well as reference microbial strains (ATCC). Testing included the assessment of bacterial growth inhibition, biofilm inhibition or bacterial susceptibility to disinfection treatment. Findings show that Lir Analytical chemical disinfectants proved highly successful at inactivating a range of Gram‐positive (Bacillus, Enterococcus, Aeromonas) and Gram‐negative (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas, Micrococcus) organisms, with up to 99.9% inactivation achieved. Additionally, test chemicals provided significant levels (P < 0.05) of biofilm inhibition for a number of test species. Furthermore, it was found that bacterial isolates from cow udders proved more sensitive to the test chemicals than their reference counterparts.
Condom‐catheter tamponade for the treatment of postpartum haemorrhage and factors associated with success: a prospective observational study
Authors: Aderoba AK , Olagbuji BN , Akintan AL , Oyeneyin OL , Owa OO , Osaikhuwuomwan JA
Published: October 2016

Objective

To determine the outcomes and factors associated with postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) treatment with condom‐catheter uterine balloon tamponade (C‐UBT).

Design

Prospective observational study.

Setting

A secondary healthcare facility in Nigeria.

Population

Women with PPH refractory to first‐line treatment.

Methods

Demographic and clinical characteristics were compared in women with successful and unsuccessful treatment. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to examine the association of these characteristics with successful treatment.

Main outcome measures

The success rate of C‐UBT, factors associated with success, and maternal morbidity rates in both successful and unsuccessful treatment groups.

Results

Overall, 203/229 (88.6%) women had successful treatment. Women with successful treatment had lower mean blood loss (1248.8 ± 701.3 ml versus 3434.6 ± 906.6 ml; P < 0.0001), lower occurrence of blood transfusion [139 (68.5%) versus 26 (100%); P < 0.0001], lower intensive care unit admission rates [5 (2.5%) versus 20 (76.9%); P < 0.0001], and lower occurrence of infectious morbidities [3 (1.5%) versus 7 (26.9%); P < 0.0001]. In the regression model with two factors, caesarean section (adjusted odds ratio, aOR 0.17; 95% confidence interval, 95% CI 0.07–0.40) was associated with lower success rates compared with vaginal delivery. In the regression model with three factors, advanced maternal age (aOR 0.31; 95% CI 0.11–0.90) and caesarean section (aOR 0.17; 95% CI 0.07–0.41) were associated with lower success rates in comparison with younger maternal age and vaginal delivery, respectively.

Conclusions

Second‐line PPH treatment with C‐UBT is effective, and is associated with low maternal morbidity rates. Advanced maternal age and caesarean section are associated with lower success rates.

Tweetable abstract

Condom‐catheter tamponade is a useful second‐line treatment modality for intractable postpartum haemorrhage.
Sustained User Engagement in Health Information Technology: The Long Road from Implementation to System Optimization of Computerized Physician Order Entry and Clinical Decision Support Systems for Prescribing in Hospitals in England
Authors: Cresswell Kathrin M. , Lee Lisa , Mozaffar Hajar , Williams Robin , Sheikh Aziz ,   on behalf of the NIHR ePrescribing Programme Team
Published: October 2016

Objective

To explore and understand approaches to user engagement through investigating the range of ways in which health care workers and organizations accommodated the introduction of computerized physician order entry (CPOE) and computerized decision support (CDS) for hospital prescribing.

Study Setting

Six hospitals in England, United Kingdom.

Study Design

Qualitative case study.

Data Collection

We undertook qualitative semi‐structured interviews, non‐participant observations of meetings and system use, and collected organizational documents over three time periods from six hospitals. Thematic analysis was initially undertaken within individual cases, followed by cross‐case comparisons.

Findings

We conducted 173 interviews, conducted 24 observations, and collected 17 documents between 2011 and 2015. We found that perceived individual and safety benefits among different user groups tended to facilitate engagement in some, while other less engaged groups developed resistance and unsanctioned workarounds if systems were perceived to be inadequate. We identified both the opportunity and need for sustained engagement across user groups around system enhancement (e.g., through customizing software) and the development of user competencies and effective use.

Conclusions

There is an urgent need to move away from an episodic view of engagement focused on the preimplementation phase, to more continuous holistic attempts to engage with and respond to end‐users.
Can a More User‐Friendly Medicare Plan Finder Improve Consumers’ Selection of Medicare Plans?
Authors: Martino Steven C. , Kanouse David E. , Miranda David J. , Elliott Marc N.
Published: October 2016

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy for consumers of two potential enhancements to the Medicare Plan Finder (MPF)—a simplified data display and a “quick links” home page designed to match the specific tasks that users seek to accomplish on the MPF.

Data Sources/Study Setting

Participants (N = 641) were seniors and adult caregivers of seniors who were recruited from a national online panel. Participants browsed a simulated version of the MPF, made a hypothetical plan choice, and reported on their experience.

Study Design

Participants were randomly assigned to one of eight conditions in a fully factorial design: 2 home pages (quick links, current MPF home page) × 2 data displays (simplified, current MPF display) × 2 plan types (stand‐alone prescription drug plan [PDP], Medicare Advantage plan with prescription drug coverage [MA‐PD]).

Principal Findings

The quick links page resulted in more favorable perceptions of the MPF, improved users’ understanding of the information, and increased the probability of choosing the objectively best plan. The simplified data display resulted in a more favorable evaluation of the website, better comprehension of the displayed information, and, among those choosing a PDP only, an increased probability of choosing the best plan.

Conclusions

Design enhancements could markedly improve average website users’ understanding, ability to use, and experience of using the MPF.
Genetic Identification of Communist Crimes’ Victims (1944–1956) Based on the Analysis of One of Many Mass Graves Discovered on the Powazki Military Cemetery in Warsaw, Poland
Authors: Ossowski Andrzej , Diepenbroek Marta , Kupiec Tomasz , Bykowska‐Witowska Milena , Zielińska Grażyna , Dembińska Teresa , Ciechanowicz Andrzej
Published: October 2016

As the result of the communist terror in Poland, during years 1944–1956 more than 50,000 people died. Their bodies were buried secretly, and most places are still unknown. The research presents the results of identification of people buried in one of many mass graves, which were found at the cemetery Powązki Military in Warsaw, Poland. Exhumation revealed the remains of eight people, among which seven were identified genetically. Well‐preserved molars were used for the study. Reference material was collected from the closest living relatives. In one case, an exhumation of victim's parents had to be performed. DNA from swabs was extracted with a PrepFiler® BTA Forensic DNA Extraction Kit and organic method. Autosomal, Y‐STR amplification, and mtDNA sequencing were performed. The biostatistical calculations resulted in LR values from 1608 to 928 × 1018. So far, remains of more than 50 victims were identified.
Australian consumer awareness of health benefits associated with vegetable consumption
Authors: Rekhy Reetica , Khan Aila , Eason Jocelyn , Mactavish‐West Hazel , Lister Carolyn , Mcconchie Robyn
Published: October 2016

Aim

The present study investigated the perceived health benefits of specific vegetable consumption to guide the use of nutrition and health claims on vegetable marketing collateral.

Methods

Free elicitation and consumer ranking data were collected through an online survey of 1000 adults from across Australia and analysed for the perceived importance of vegetables in the daily diet, number of serves consumed per day, knowledge about health‐related benefits of specific vegetables and perceived health benefits of vegetable consumption.

Results

The importance of vegetables in the diet and daily vegetable consumption was higher in people from an English‐speaking background, females, people aged 45 years and over and people living in non‐metropolitan areas. Digestion was selected as the major health benefit from consumption of specific vegetables. However, understanding of the health benefits of specific vegetable consumption was relatively low among consumers. Half of the respondents were not sure of the health benefits associated with specific vegetables, except for carrots and spinach. Some respondents volunteered nutrient content or other information.

Conclusions

There was no clear indication that consumers understand the specific health benefits conferred by consumption of vegetables. Nutrient and health benefit labelling therefore has the capacity to enhance knowledge of vegetable consumers. It is recommended that health benefit labelling be tailored to promote greater consumption of vegetables in those demographic groups where vegetable consumption was lower. The present study assists the Australian vegetable industry in helping consumers make more informed consumption choices.
Macronutrient content and food exchanges for 48 Greek Mediterranean dishes
Authors: Detopoulou Paraskevi , Aggeli Maria , Andrioti Elena , Detopoulou Maria
Published: October 2016

Aim

The purpose of the present study was to facilitate the translation of traditional Greek Mediterranean recipes into food exchanges for diabetes. Moreover, it provides a useful food list for meal planning, which can be used by health professionals and nutritionists, as well as researchers and the public.

Methods

A total of 48 traditional Greek Mediterranean dishes were selected in order to include appetisers, sauces, salads, pies, dishes with vegetables and legumes as well as egg, pasta, rice, meat, fish and poultry‐based dishes. The macronutrient content of each recipe (carbohydrate, fat, protein and dietary fibre) was estimated with the use of the USDA database and Greek food composition tables. Then, in order to calculate the food exchanges per serve, an approximation method was followed as suggested in the literature.

Results

The Mediterranean Greek dishes contain a considerable amount of vegetables and dietary fibre, and their energy content mainly derives from olive oil. For each serve, carbohydrate, non‐starchy vegetable, protein (lean, medium or high fat), milk and fat exchanges are provided. Moreover, the type of fat that each recipe contains is reported.

Conclusions

The presented data offer a chance for health professionals to efficiently plan Mediterranean‐type meals, ensuring more sophisticated dietetic advice, higher standards of medical nutrition therapy and greater patient self‐efficacy.
Expression profiles of two thaumatin‐like protein (TmTLP) genes in responses to various micro‐organisms fromTenebrio molitor
Authors: Kim Dong Hyun , Noh Mi Young , Park Ki Beom , Jo Yong Hun
Published: October 2016

It is well known that anti‐fungal thaumatin‐like proteins (TLPs) play important roles in plants. Here, we investigated the expression analysis of thaumatin‐like protein genesTmTLPs in response to various pathogens inTenebrio molitor. Developmental expression patterns ofTmTLPs show thatTmTLPs are highly expressed in the early pupal and adult stages. Furthermore, tissue‐specific expression patterns ofTmTLPs indicate thatTmTLP1is highly expressed in the integument and gut of last instar larvae and the integument and Malpighian tubules of 5‐day old adults. In contrast,TmTLP2is highly expressed in the gut of both last instar larvae and 5‐day old adults. We hypothesize that the expression ofTmTLPgenes in developmental stages may be related to molting and body remodeling stresses. In addition, the induction patterns ofTmTLPgenes indicate thatTmTLPs were slightly induced byEscherichia coli,Staphylococcus aureus,Candida albicansandListeria monocytogenes. Furthermore,TmTLP1andTmTLP2were strongly induced in response toE. coliat 9 h post‐injection andL. monocytogenesat 3 h post‐injection. Our results suggest that TmTLPs may possess antimicrobial functions inT. molitor.
Habitat use in eight populations of Sceloporus grammicus (Squamata: Phrynosomatidae) from the Mexican Plateau
Authors: LEYTE‐MANRIQUE Adrian , HERNÁNDEZ‐SALINAS Uriel , RAMÍREZ‐BAUTISTA Aurelio , MATA‐SILVA Vicente , MARSHALL Jonathon C.
Published: October 2016

Studies on habitat use have often helped explain observed variation in morphology, behavior and reproductive characteristics among populations within a single species. Here we analyze morphological and ecological characteristics of individuals from the Sceloporus grammicus species complex from 7 different localities (CER, El Cerezo; PAC, Pachuca; HUI, Huichapan; EZA, Emiliano Zapata; SMR, San Miguel Regla; LMJ, La Mojonera; and LMZ, La Manzana) in the state of Hidalgo, and one locality (Cahuacán) in the State of Mexico. A canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) showed that females from PAC, EZA, LMZ, HUI, SMR and CAH populations use similar microhabitats characterized mostly by bare soil, in females from LMJ and CER use microhabitats characterized primarily by vegetation and rocks. Females were observed using 12 different types of perches. With regard to perch height use, the CCA showed that females from PAC, LMJ, LMZ, SMR, CER and CAH populations were correlated with height to nearest perch (HNP), in the rest of the females were not related to any perch use variable. In contrast, the CCA showed that males from PAC, LMJ and CAH were characterized by microhabitats with higher vegetal coverage, while males from LMZ and CER used microhabitats composed of bare soil, but males from HUI and SMR populations used microhabitats composed chiefly of bare soil and rocks. With respect to perch height use, the CCA showed that males from PAC, LMJ, EZA and LMZ were correlated with distance to the nearest perch, but the rest of the males were not correlated with any perch use variables. Males were observed in 9 different perch types. The males were larger than the females in all morphological variables analyzed. Moreover, in both sexes the snout–vent length is positively correlated with all morphological variables, and although both the slope and ordinate of the origin of all morphological variables were larger in males than females, the analysis of covariance indicated that there is no increase in the morphological variables with increasing SVL between sexes. Our results suggest that variation in habitat use and morphology among populations is an adaptive response (phenotypic plasticity) to the environmental conditions where these populations of Sceloporus grammicus occur.
Cultivated walnut trees showed earlier but not final advantage over its wild relatives in competing for seed dispersers
Authors: ZHANG Hongmao , CHU Wei , ZHANG Zhibin
Published: October 2016

Little is known about seeding regeneration of cultivated trees compared to wild relatives in areas where seed dispersers are shared. Here, we investigated the differences in seed fates of cultivated walnut (Juglans regia) and wild Manchurian walnut (Juglans mandshurica) trees under rodent predation and dispersal. J. regia seeds have higher nutritional value (large size, mass and kernel mass) and lower mechanical defensiveness (thin endocarp) than J. mandshurica seeds. We tracked seeds of J. regia and J. mandshurica under both enclosure and field conditions to assess differences in competing for seed dispersers of the two co‐occurring tree species of the same genus. We found that rodents preferred to harvest, eat and scatter‐hoard seeds of J. regia as compared to those of J. mandshurica. Seeds of J. regia were removed and scatter‐hoarded faster than those of J. mandshurica. Caches of J. regia were more likely to be rediscovered by rodents than those of J. mandshurica. These results suggest that J. regia showed earlier dispersal fitness but not the ultimate dispersal fitness over J. mandshurica in seeding regeneration under rodent mediation, implying that J. regia has little effect on seeding regeneration of J. mandshurica in the field. The effects of seed traits on seed dispersal fitness may vary at different dispersal stages under animal mediation.
Physicochemical Properties, Fatty Acid Profiles, and Sensory Characteristics of Fermented Beef Sausage by Probiotics Lactobacillus plantarum IIA‐2C12 or Lactobacillus acidophilus IIA‐2B4
Authors: Arief Irma Isnafia , Afiyah Dyah Nurul , Wulandari Zakiah , Budiman Cahyo
Published: October 2016

Probiotics may be used to enhance the functionality and nutritional values of fermented sausages. This study aims to evaluate the physicochemical and sensory properties of beef sausages fermented by lactic acid bacteria of Lactobacillus plantarum IIA‐2C12 and L. acidophilus IIA‐2B4. These strains were isolated from beef cattle and have shown to display probiotic features. While the nutrient contents were not affected by the probiotics, the pH, texture, and color varied among the sausages. Further analysis on fatty acids showed different profiles of saturated (C14:0, C17:0, and C20:0) and unsaturated (C14:1, C18:1n9c, C18:2n6c, and C22:6n3) fatty acids in sausages with probiotics. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry further revealed some flavor development compounds including acid, alcohols, aldehydes, aromatic, ketones, sulfur, hydrocarbons and terpenes, varied among the sausages. Hedonic test showed no difference in the preference toward aroma, texture, and color for untrained panelists.
CT enterography: Mannitol versus VoLumen
Authors: Wong Jessica , Moore Helen , Roger Mark , McKee Chris
Published: October 2016

Introduction

Several different neutral oral contrast agents have been trialled in magnetic resonance and CT enterography (CTE). In the Auckland region, Mannitol 2.5% and VoLumen are both used in CTE. This study compares the performance of these two neutral oral contrast agents in CTE.

Methods

Computed tomography enterography data were collected from 25 consecutive studies that used either Mannitol or VoLumen in 2014. All images were reviewed by three radiologists blinded to the type of oral contrast. Each quadrant was assessed for maximum distension, proportion of bowel loops distended, presence of inhomogeneous content and bowel wall visibility. Assessment also included whether the contrast agent reached the caecum and an overall subjective quality assessment. Patients were invited to answer a questionnaire regarding tolerability of the preparations.

Results

Mannitol achieves better wall visibility in the right upper quadrant, left upper quadrant and left lower quadrant (P < 0.01). Overall differences in study quality favours Mannitol (P < 0.01) with 48% of the Mannitol studies being considered excellent compared with 4% of the VoLumen studies. There was no difference in maximal distension or proportion of loops distended.

Conclusion

Mannitol in CTE achieves studies of a better quality than and is a viable alternative to VoLumen.
Impact of dual energy characterization of urinary calculus on management
Authors: Habashy David , Xia Ryan , Ridley William , Chan Lewis , Ridley Lloyd
Published: October 2016

Introduction

Dual energy CT (DECT) is a recent technique that is increasingly being used to differentiate between calcium and uric acid urinary tract calculi. The aim of this study is to determine if urinary calculi composition analysis determined by DECT scanning results in a change of patient management.

Method

All patients presenting with symptoms of renal colic, who had not previously undergone DECT scanning underwent DECT KUB. DECT data of all patients between September 2013 and July 2015 were reviewed. Urinary calculi composition based on dual energy characterization was cross‐matched with patient management and outcome.

Results

A total of 585 DECT KUB were performed. 393/585 (67%) DECT scans revealed urinary tract calculi. After excluding those with isolated bladder or small asymptomatic renal stones, 303 patients were found to have symptomatic stone(s) as an explanation for their presentation. Of these 303 patients, there were 273 (90.1%) calcium calculi, 19 (6.3%) uric acid calculi and 11 (3.4%) mixed calculi. Of those with uric acid calculi, 15 were commenced on dissolution therapy. Twelve of those commenced on dissolution therapy had a successful outcome, avoiding need for surgical intervention (lithotripsy or stone retrieval). Three patients failed dissolution therapy and required operative intervention for definitive management of the stone.

Conclusion

Predicting urinary tract calculi composition by DECT plays an important role in identifying patients who may be managed with dissolution therapy. Identification of uric acid stone composition altered management in 15 of 303 (5.0%) patients, and was successful in 12, thereby avoiding surgery and its attendant risks.
Changes in the rumen microbiome and metabolites reveal the effect of host genetics on hybrid crosses
Authors: Li Zhipeng , Wright André‐Denis G. , Si Huazhe , Wang Xiaoxu , Qian Wenxi , Zhang Zhigang , Li Guangyu
Published: October 2016

The rumen microbiota plays important roles in nutrient metabolism and absorption of the host. However, it is poorly understood how host genetic variation shapes the community structure of the rumen microbiota and its metabolic phenotype. Here, we used sika deer (Cervus nippon) and elk (Cervus elaphus) to produce the following two types of hybrid offspring: sika deer ♀ × elk ♂ (SEH) and elk ♀ × sika deer ♂ (ESH). Then, we examined the rumen microbiome and metabolites in the parents and their hybrid offspring. The rumen microbiota in the hybrids differed from that in their parents, suggesting a significant effect of host genetics on the rumen microbiome that may have resulted from vertical transmission. The rumen metabolites displayed patterns similar to the structure of the rumen microbiome, with changes in the amounts of volatile fatty acids and metabolites of amino acids. The alanine, arginine, proline and phenylalanine pathways were enriched in the rumen of hybrid animals. The enriched metabolites in the above pathways were positively correlated with the bacteria Prevotella spp., Acetitomaculum spp., Quinella spp., Succinivibrio spp. and Ruminobacter spp. These results suggest that host genetics has a major impact on the rumen microbiome and metabolites in hybrid animals.
Plant community, geographic distance and abiotic factors play different roles in predicting AMF biogeography at the regional scale in northern China
Authors: Xu Tianle , Veresoglou Stavros D. , Chen Yongliang , Rillig Matthias C. , Xiang Dan , Ondřej Daniel , Hao Zhipeng , Liu Lei , Deng Ye , Hu Yajun , Chen Weiping , Wang Juntao , He Jizheng , Chen Baodong
Published: October 2016

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are ubiquitous mutualists of terrestrial plants and play key roles in regulating various ecosystem processes, but little is known about AMF biogeography at regional scale. This study aims at exploring the key predictors of AMF communities across a 5000‐km transect in northern China. We determined the soil AMF species richness and community composition at 47 sites representative of four vegetation types (meadow steppe, typical steppe, desert steppe and desert) and related them to plant community characteristics, abiotic factors and geographic distance. The results showed that soil pH was the strongest predictor of AMF richness and phylogenetic diversity. However, abiotic factors only have a low predictive effect on AMF community composition or phylogenetic patterns. By contrast, we found a significant relationship between community composition of AMF and plants, which was a surprising result given the extent of heterogeneity in the plant community across this transect. Moreover, the geographic distance predominantly explained the AMF phylogenetic structure, implying that history evolutionary may play a role in shaping AMF biogeographic patterns. This study highlighted the different roles of main factors in predicting AMF biogeography, and bridge landscape‐scale studies to more recent global‐scale efforts.
Getting at the “what” and the “how” in symbiosis
Authors: Newton Irene L. G.
Published: October 2016

Symbioses are ubiquitous and have had a tremendous impact on the evolution of life on the planet. Indeed, endosymbiosis lead to the generation of the first eukaryotic cell and from that point onwards, eukaryotes have interacted with the other domains of life, sometimes forming persistent and necessary relationships that span generations. However, because the majority of hosts and symbionts are not easily manipulated, the intricate details of these symbioses, an understanding of the molecular underpinnings of these interactions, have not been elucidated. It is difficult to ask questions about the details of a host‐microbe symbiosis if either member cannot be cultured, genetically manipulated, or even housed in a laboratory. Several technological advances in recent years may address these difficulties, making it easier for researchers to ask mechanistic questions in symbiotic systems.
The third dimension: a novel set‐up for filming coelacanths in their natural environment
Authors: Décamps Thierry , Herrel Anthony , Ballesta Laurent , Holon Florian , Rauby Thibault , Gentil Yannick , Gentil Cédric , Dutel Hugo , Debruyne Régis , Charrassin Jean‐Benoit , Eveillard Guillaume , Clément Gaël , Herbin Marc
Published: October 2016

Here, we describe a novel design to obtain three‐dimensional data on the movements of aquatic organisms at depths of up to 140 m.

The set‐up consists of two synchronized high‐speed cameras fixed to two articulated arms.

The set‐up was successfully used to film and quantify the locomotion of coelacanths Latimeria chalumnae living at a depth of about 120 m in Sodwana Bay, South Africa. As an example, the detailed motion of the dorsal fin is presented here.

This set‐up can be used for any underwater applications that require synchronized video recordings of medium‐ to large‐sized animals.
A new kernel density estimator for accurate home‐range and species‐range area estimation
Authors: Fleming Christen H. , Calabrese Justin M.
Published: October 2016

Kernel density estimators are widely applied to area‐related problems in ecology, from estimating the home range of an individual to estimating the geographic range of a species. Currently, area estimates are obtained indirectly, by first estimating the location distribution from tracking (home range) or survey (geographic range) data and then estimating areas from that distribution. This indirect approach leads to biased area estimates and difficulty in deriving reasonable confidence intervals.

We introduce a new kernel density estimator (and associated confidence intervals) focused specifically on area estimation that applies to both independently sampled survey data and autocorrelated tracking data. We test our methods against simulated movement data and demonstrate its use with African buffalo data.

The area‐corrected kernel density estimator produces much more accurate area estimates, particularly at small sample sizes, and the newly derived confidence intervals are more reliable than existing alternatives.

This new method is the most efficient nonparametric home‐range estimator for animal tracking data and should also be considered when calculating nonparametric range estimates from survey data. This estimator is now the default method in thectmm rpackage.
Subthreshold and threshold attention deficit hyperactivity disorder symptoms in childhood: psychosocial outcomes in adolescence in boys and girls
Authors: Norén Selinus E. , Molero Y. , Lichtenstein P. , Anckarsäter H. , Lundström S. , Bottai M. , Hellner Gumpert C.
Published: October 2016

Objective

To examine the association between different levels of childhood attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms and sex differences in psychosocial outcomes during adolescence.

Method

Swedish children (n = 4635) were screened for neuropsychiatric symptoms at age 9 or 12. ADHD symptoms were divided into three levels: screen‐negative, screen‐intermediate, and screen‐positive. At follow‐up (age 15), parents and teenagers filled out questionnaires regarding (i) hyperactivity/inattention, (ii) peer problems, (iii) school problems, (iv) internalizing problems, (v) antisocial behaviour, (vi) alcohol misuse, and (vii) drug misuse. All outcomes were controlled for symptoms of diagnostic categories other than ADHD.

Results

Increasing levels of ADHD symptoms in childhood were associated with higher proportions of adolescents who displayed negative psychosocial outcomes. More girls than boys reported internalizing problems (all levels) and risky drug use (screen‐intermediate and screen‐positive only). More boys reported antisocial behaviour at the screen‐negative and screen‐intermediate levels, but at the screen‐positive level, similar proportions of girls and boys displayed antisocial behaviour.

Conclusion

The findings support the view that ADHD symptoms, as well as their negative outcomes, are dimensionally distributed in the population and that adolescent girls and boys display different risk profiles. The findings confirm that ADHD symptoms are associated with higher risk of drug misuse in girls.
Impairment of opiate‐mediated behaviors by the selective TRPV1 antagonist SB366791
Authors: Ma Shi‐Xun , Kwon Seung‐Hwan , Seo Jee‐Yeon , Hwang Ji‐Young , Hong Sa‐Ik , Kim Hyoung‐Chun , Lee Seok‐Yong , Jang Choon‐Gon
Published: October 2016

Transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1), the archetypal member of the vanilloid TRP family, was initially identified as the receptor for capsaicin, the pungent ingredient in hot chili peppers. We previously demonstrated that TRPV1 in the dorsal striatum significantly contributes to morphine reward by using the conditioned place preference paradigm in mice; however, it is unknown whether TRPV1 has the same effect in other reward models. In this study, we investigated the role of TRPV1 in morphine reward by using a self‐administration paradigm in rats. We found that treatment with a selective TRPV1 antagonist, SB366791, significantly decreased morphine self‐administration on a fixed‐ratio 1 schedule or a progressive ratio schedule of reinforcement. In addition, treatment with another selective TRPV1 antagonist, AMG9810, not only significantly prevented morphine self‐administration but also prevented morphine‐induced c‐fos expression in the nucleus accumbens. Furthermore, administration of SB366791 decreased an anxiolytic‐like effect during the morphine abstinence period. Moreover, treatment with SB366791 significantly decreased morphine‐priming reinstatement. Taken together, our findings suggest that blockade of TRPV1 receptors could provide an approach to limiting morphine addiction.
Unravelling the coordination between leaf and stem economics spectra through local and global scale approaches
Authors: Zeballos Sebastián R. , Giorgis Melisa A. , Cabido Marcelo , Gurvich Diego E.
Published: October 2016

The existence of a coordination between leaf and stem economic spectra in woody species has been postulated repeatedly in the literature, with contrasting results. Here, we postulated that this coordination is conditioned by climate factors, being stronger in stressful environments. To test this hypothesis we explored the coordination between leaf and stem economic spectra in a seasonally dry forest in central Argentina and at the global scale, we analysed if the outcome of their coordination varies along a climatic gradient. At the local scale, we characterized leaf and stem economic spectra in 37 woody species by measuring six leaf and stem functional traits related to resource acquisition and use, and two functional traits used as proxies of water transport and use capacities. At the global scale, a meta‐regression was performed to analyse if the outcome of the coordination among leaf and stem traits varies along gradients of the mean precipitation of the driest quarter and of the minimum temperature of the coldest month. At the local scale, we observed a high integration among the measured leaf and stem traits, and this coordination seemed to be linked to hydraulic properties. At the global scale, we found not only that the overall weighted mean effect size of the correlation between specific leaf area and wood density was significant and negative but also that the coordination between leaf and stem traits seemed to be shaped by climate and tends to become stronger under harsh climate conditions. Furthermore, although our results seem to suggest that their coordination is context‐dependent, alternative strategies could be observed under stressful conditions.
Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome mimicking brain metastases in a patient with metastatic transitional cell carcinoma
Authors: Wong Kelsey , Lee Margaret , Davis Ian D. , Parente Phillip , Mckendrick Joseph , Pezaro Carmel
Published: October 2016

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) has been described in the context of uncontrolled hypertension, eclampsia, renal disease and autoimmune conditions, or in patients treated with chemotherapy or immunosuppressive agents. In contrast, we report the occurrence of PRES in a patient with untreated metastatic transitional cell carcinoma. The case emphasizes important diagnostic challenges associated with atypical presentations without “typical” risk factors and the limitations of common diagnostic imaging modalities. It highlights the ability of nonmalignant conditions like PRES to mimic brain metastases and the importance of magnetic resonance imaging as a diagnostic tool. A high index of suspicion is warranted in atypical presentations, as prompt treatment is imperative to ensure full neurological recovery.
An innovative test for non‐invasive Kell genotyping on circulating fetal DNA by means of the allelic discrimination of K1 and K2 antigens
Authors: Cro' Fabiana , Lapucci Cristina , Vicari Emilio , Salsi Ginevra , Rizzo Nicola , Farina Antonio
Published: October 2016

Objective

The aim of this study was to present a new method for fetal Kell genotyping by means of the allelic discrimination of K1 and K2 in real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Methods

Real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction incorporating an allele‐specific primer was developed for detecting the K allele of KEL.

Results

By means of this method, the K1/K2 genotype was able to be determined in all blood samples analyzed. Results using cell‐free fetal DNA (cffDNA) from two Kell‐negative pregnant women confirmed the Kell‐positive genotype of fetuses. The real‐time PCR analysis also allowed the determination of the fetal fraction using the quantification of Kell‐positive DNA.

Conclusion

An efficient and reliable strategy for Kell genotyping is herein presented. The method was optimized on cffDNA to create a non‐invasive prenatal test which could be routinely used for the prevention of hemolytic disease of the fetus and the newborn (HDFN).
Asthma outcomes improve with continuous positive airway pressure for obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Serrano‐Pariente J. , Plaza V. , Soriano J. B. , Mayos M. , López‐Viña A. , Picado C. , Vigil L. ,   the CPASMA Trial Group
Published: October 2016

Background

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) in asthma patients with concomitant obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) seems to have a favorable impact on asthma, but data are inconsistent due to methodological limitations of previous studies.

Methods

Prospective, multicenter study. We examined asthma outcomes after 6 months of CPAP in 99 adult asthma patients (mean age 57 years) with OSAS (respiratory disturbance index ≥20). Asthma control and quality of life were assessed with the Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) and the Mini Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (MiniAQLQ), respectively. Data were analyzed by intention‐to‐treat basis.

Results

The mean ± SD score of the ACQ decreased from 1.39 ± 0.91 at baseline to 1.0 ± 0.78 at 6 months (P = 0.003), the percentage of patients with uncontrolled asthma from 41.4% to 17.2% (P = 0.006), and the percentage of patients with asthma attacks in the 6 months before and after treatment from 35.4% to 17.2% (P = 0.015). The score of the mAQLQ increased from 5.12 ± 1.38 to 5.63 ± 1.17 (P = 0.009). There were also significant improvements in symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux and rhinitis, bronchial reversibility, and exhaled nitric oxide values (all P < 0.05). No significant changes were observed in drug therapy for asthma or their comorbidities nor in the patients’ weight.

Conclusions

Asthma control (both actual and future risk), quality of life, and lung function improved after starting continuous positive airway pressure in asthmatics with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.
Speak up! Barriers to challenging erroneous decisions of seniors in anaesthesia
Authors: Beament T. , Mercer S. J.
Published: October 2016

‘Speaking up’ or the ability to effectively challenge erroneous decisions is essential to preventing harm. This mixed‐methods study in two parts explores the concept of ‘barriers to challenging seniors’ for anaesthetic trainees, and proposes a conceptual framework. Using a fully immersive simulation scenario with unanticipated airway difficulty, we investigated how junior anaesthetists (one to two years of training) challenged a scripted error. We also conducted focus groups with senior trainees (three to seven years of training) and undertook a ‘thematic network analysis’ of responses. Junior anaesthetic trainees challenged erroneous decisions effectively, but trainees with an additional year of experience challenged more quickly and effectively, combining ‘crisp‐advocacy‐inquiry challenge’ with ‘non‐verbal cues’. Focus group analysis conceptualised a ‘barrier network’ with three main themes: concerns around relationships; decision‐making; and risk/cost–benefit. Emotional maturity is an important protective layer around decisions to challenge. Despite significant multifactorial barriers, systematic training in effective ‘speaking up’ could improve the confidence and ability of juniors to challenge erroneous decisions.
Multi‐Scalar Practices of the Korean State in Global Climate Politics: The Case of the Global Green Growth Institute
Authors: Hwang Jin‐Tae , Lee Sang‐Hun , Müller‐Mahn Detlef
Published: October 2016

The paper examines the significance of state territoriality and the related multi‐scalar practices of the state in the light of the symptoms of post‐politics exemplified in global environmental governance. The focus rests on the South Korean government's Green Growth (GG) strategy and the efforts to export this strategy as a role model to emerging economies worldwide through the establishment of the Global Green Growth Institute. We begin with the question why the Korean government is going global with a political program that is heavily disputed at home. We then study the practices by which the state manages to maintain its territoriality under the conditions of global climate change. Lastly, we discuss how multi‐scalar practices of environmental governance in the GG strategy are applied by state and non‐state actors both in Korea and abroad.
Duration of the active phase of labor in spontaneous and induced labors
Authors: Østborg Tilde B. , Romundstad Pål R. , Eggebø Torbjørn M.
Published: October 2016

Introduction

The aim of the study was to compare the duration of active phase of labor in women with spontaneous or induced start of labor.

Material and methods

An observational cohort study was performed at Stavanger University Hospital in Norway between January 2010 and December 2013. During the study period 19 524 women delivered. Data for the study were collected from an electronic birth journal. Women with previous cesarean section, multiple pregnancy, breech or transverse lie, preterm labor or prelabor cesarean section were excluded. Analyses were stratified between nulliparous and parous women. Active phase of labor was defined when contractions were regular, with cervix effaced and dilated 4 cm. The main outcome measure was duration of active phase of labor.

Results

The active phase was longer in induced labors than in labors with spontaneous onset in nulliparous women. The estimated median duration using survival analyses was 433 min (95% confidence interval 419–446) in spontaneous vs. 541 min (95% confidence interval 502–580) in induced labors [unadjusted hazard ratio 0.76 (95% confidence interval 0.71–0.82) and adjusted hazard ratio 0.88 (95% confidence interval 0.82–0.95)]. In parous women, a one minus survival plot showed that induced labors had shorter duration before six hours in active labor, but after six hours, induced labors had longer duration. The overall difference in parous women was small and probably of little clinical importance.

Conclusion

The active phase of labor was longer in induced than in spontaneous labors in nulliparous women.
Detection and comparison of neuraminidase activities in human and bovine group B streptococci
Authors: Ekin Ismail Hakki , Gurturk Kemal , Ilhan Ziya , Ekin Suat , Borum Ayse Ebru , Arabaci Cigdem , Yesilova Abdullah
Published: October 2016

Human and bovine group B streptococcus (GBS) isolates were serotyped and amounts of released N‐acetylneuraminic acid from N‐acetylneuraminyl‐lactose by extracellular neuraminidase were colorimetrically assessed. According to serotyping by co‐agglutination method, 30 of bovine GBS and 43 of human GBS could be serotyped (ST) by monospecific antisera coated with protein A. The remaining GBS strains were designated as nontypeable (NT). The released N‐acetylneuraminic acid was determined in 90.9% of bovine GBS and 47.1% of human GBS isolates. The differences between the total bovine and human GBS isolates were statistically significant (p < 0.001). In comparison with detected N‐acetylneuraminic acid level in bovine and human groups, significant decrease was observed in the bovine NT group according to increased human NT (p < 0.01) and bovine ST groups (p < 0.01). However, N‐acetylneuraminic acid level in bovine ST and bovine total groups significantly (p < 0.001) increased with respect to the human ST group and human total group. Neuraminidase activity was detected more frequently in bovine GBS isolates. Considerable differentiations were observed between typeable and nontypeable isolates.
Café nation? Exploring the growth of the UK café industry
Authors: Ferreira Jennifer
Published: October 2016

The UK café industry has experienced significant growth over the last decade. With over 18 800 outlets, and a turnover of £7.2 billion recorded in 2014, the industry represents an important component of the retail sector. Industry commentators forecast that the industry will continue to grow and that there will be 27 000 outlets by 2020. This article provides an overview of the UK café industry and highlights the key drivers of it's rapid growth. It explores the ways that a new economic geography is quietly made as the café industry refashions our high streets. The article culminates by presenting an illustrative typology of café types which comprise the café industry in the UK, highlighting the need for greater research into the landscape of the café industry as it develops, and the roles that café spaces play in different communities.
Restoration of tropical forests requires more than just planting trees, a lot more…
Authors: Mayfield Margaret M.
Published: October 2016

Forest restoration is an important tool for combating climate change and protecting biodiversity. In this issue of Applied Vegetation Science, Garcia et al. show that alone, planting trees is insufficient for fully restoring rain forest complexity. This study highlights the need for longer‐term restoration plans, including enrichment plantings that speed the recovery of non‐tree forest components once planted trees have established.