bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The α10 helix of DevR, the Mycobacterium tuberculosis dormancy response regulator, regulates its DNA binding and activity
Authors: Vashist Atul , Prithvi Raj D. , Gupta Umesh Datta , Bhat Rajiv , Tyagi Jaya Sivaswami
Published: January 2016

The crystal structures of several bacterial response regulators provide insight into the various interdomain molecular interactions potentially involved in maintaining their ‘active’ or ‘inactive’ states. However, the requirement of high concentrations of protein, an optimal pH and ionic strength buffers during crystallization may result in a structure somewhat different from that observed in solution. Therefore, functional assessment of the physiological relevance of the crystal structure data is imperative. DevR/DosR dormancy regulator of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) belongs to the NarL subfamily of response regulators. The crystal structure of unphosphorylated DevR revealed that it forms a dimer through the α5/α6 interface. It was proposed that phosphorylation may trigger extensive structural rearrangements in DevR that culminate in the formation of a DNA‐binding competent dimeric species via α10‐α10 helix interactions. The α10 helix‐deleted DevR protein (DevR∆α10) was hyperphosphorylated but defective with respect to in vitro DNA binding. Biophysical characterization reveals that DevR∆α10 has an open but less stable conformation. The combined cross‐linking and DNA‐binding data demonstrate that the α10 helix is essential for the formation and stabilization of the DNA‐binding proficient DevR structure in both the phosphorylated and unphosphorylated states. Genetic studies establish that Mtb strains expressing DevR∆α10 are defective with respect to dormancy regulon expression under hypoxia. The present study highlights the indispensable role of the α10 helix in DevR activation and function under hypoxia and establishes the α10‐α10 helix interface as a novel target for developing inhibitors against DevR, a key regulator of hypoxia‐triggered dormancy.
Heterogeneous Mortgage Markets: Implications for Business Cycles and Welfare in the EMU
Authors: Gareis Johannes , Mayer Eric
Published: January 2016

This paper evaluates business cycle effects of asymmetric cross-country mortgage market developments in a monetary union. By employing a two-country New Keynesian DSGE model with collateral constraints tied to housing values, we show that a change in institutional characteristics of mortgage markets, such as the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio, is an important driver of asymmetric developments in housing markets and economic activity. Our analysis suggests that the home country where credit standards are lax booms, while the rest of European Monetary Union faces a negative output gap. Overall welfare is lower if LTV ratios are higher.
Effects of a change in social activity on quality of life among middle‐aged and elderly Koreans: Analysis of the Korean longitudinal study of aging (2006–2012)
Authors: Choi Young , Lee Kwang‐Sig , Shin Jaeyong , Kwon Jeoung A , Park Eun‐Cheol
Published: January 2016

Aim

The aim of the present study was to examine a relationship between altered social activity and quality of life in later life.

Methods

Data came from the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging (2006–2012), which consisted of 7096 participants aged 45 years or older. Change in social activity was classified into four categories; that is, “consistent non‐participation,” “participation to no participation,” “no participation to participation” and “consistent participation.” Social activity was divided into various elements, and the same analysis was carried out for each element. The linear mixed model was used to investigate the association between changes in social activity and quality of life among middle‐aged and elderly Koreans.

Results

Those with changes from “participation to no participation” (b 2.253, P < 0.0001), “no participation to participation” (b 3.348, P < 0.0001) and “consistent participation” (b 6.624, P < 0.0001) were more likely to be satisfied with their lives than those with “consistent non‐participation” (P < 0.0001 for trend). In addition, the impact of the positive relationship between consistent participation in social activity and quality of life varied across different elements of social activity. The positive association was particularly strong for religious activities, friendship organization, leisure/culture clubs, family/school reunion and voluntary work (b 1.451, P < 0.0004; b 5.049, P < 0.0001; b 4.903, P < 0.0001; b 4.757, P < 0.0001; b 4.562, P < 0.0001; respectively, for consistent participation vs consistent non‐participation).

Conclusion

Consistent participation in religious activities, friendship organizations, leisure/culture clubs, family/school reunion ,and volunteer work improves quality of life among middle aged and older Koreans. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 132–141.
Multicentered epidemiological study of factors associated with total bacterial count in the saliva of older people requiring nursing care
Authors: Tohara Takashi , Kikutani Takeshi , Tamura Fumiyo , Yoshida Mitsuyoshi , Kuboki Takuo
Published: January 2016

Aim

To clarify whether the number of present teeth, independent of other well‐known factors, was associated with the total bacterial count in the saliva of older people requiring care at nursing homes in a multicentered epidemiological survey.

Method

The participants were 618 older people (mean age 86.8 ± 6.9 years; 122 men, 496 women) residing in 14 nursing homes across Japan. The dependent variable was the participant's salivary bacterial count, and the independent variables were basic demographic data, oral conditions and activity of daily living (measured by Barthel Index). Statistical analysis was first carried out by Student's t‐test, Pearson's correlation coefficient analysis and Spearman's rank correlation coefficient analysis. Independent variables found to have a significant relationship to their salivary bacterial count by the univariate analyses were further examined by stepwise multivariate analysis.

Results

The independent variables shown by univariate analysis to have a significant positive relationship with higher salivary bacterial count were presence of food residue (P = 0.001), absence of mouth dryness (P = 0.001), need of oral care assistance (P = 0.001), inability to keep the mouth opened (P = 0.009), inability to gargle (P = 0.002), denture use (P = 0.004), higher number of present teeth (P = 0.006) and lower Barthel Index (P = 0.001). Subsequent multivariate analysis identified presence of food residue (P = 0.031), higher number of present teeth (P = 0.043) and lower Barthel Index (P = 0.001) as independent associated factors for higher salivary bacterial count.

Conclusions

The present study found that presence of food residue, higher number of present teeth and decreased activity of daily living were significantly related to higher bacterial count in the saliva of older people requiring care. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 219–225.
Broadcasting cookery: BBC radio programmes in the 1920s and 1930s
Authors: Lyon Phil , Ross Liz
Published: January 2016

The development of British radio broadcasting technology in the 1920s and 1930s and, equally importantly, the progressively widespread purchase and use of radio sets established a new platform from which to engage and influence the population on a number of matters. The British Broadcasting Corporation's public service principles of programmes to inform, educate and entertain gave rise to various content experiments at a time when there were very few precedents. One such innovation was the cookery talk. This was broadcast live, accomplished without the possibility of practical demonstration, and constituted a new, and abstract, form of communication primarily designed for women in their own homes. In this, women were the earliest and most frequent contributors, and their broadcast content differed from that provided by men. By reference to archive material, this article examines the social context and the thinking behind those early years of radio cookery talks and documents the contributors who were to establish this now‐familiar genre of broadcasting.
New Solid Solutions and Phase Equilibria in the Rb3Y(PO4)2–BaRbPO4 System
Authors: Pelczarska Aleksandra , Radomińska Ewa , Znamierowska Teresa
Published: January 2016

A phase diagram of the Rb3Y(PO4)2–BaRbPO4 system for the whole range of compositions, up to a temperature of 1700°C, has been developed on the basis of the results of thermal and XRD analyses and microscopic examinations. The investigated system has an eutectic character. Limited solid solutions with the high‐temperature (α) and low‐temperature (β) structure of BaRbPO4 form in this system. The maximum solubility of Rb3Y(PO4)2 in the high‐temperature solid solution (αss) occurs at the eutectic temperature (1275°C), amounting to ~80 mass% Rb3Y(PO4)2. At 988°C, the αss decomposes according to eutectoidal reaction: αss ↔ βs + Rb3Y(PO4)2. The maximum content of Rb3Y(PO4)2 in the low‐temperature limited solid solution (βss) does not exceed 10 mass% Rb3Y(PO4)2. The αss phase has a hexagonal glaserite‐like structure with the unit cell parameters a ≈ 5.7 and b ≈ 8.1 Å.
The Change of X‐ray Diffraction Peak Width During in situ Conventional Sintering of Nanoscale Powders
Authors: Lebrun Jean‐Marie , Jha Shikhar K. , Naik Kiran S. , Seymour Kevin C. , Kriven Waltraud M. , Raj Rishi
Published: January 2016

Diffraction peaks of nanoscale particles of 3 mol% yttria‐stabilized zirconia become sharper as the powder sinters. The reduction in the peak width is correlated with the increase in density. The sharpening of the peak agrees reasonably well with the remaining free surface area as the sample sinters. Therefore, high curvature of the free surface of the pores is assumed to lead to peak broadening (the grain boundaries that grow at the expense of the free surfaces of the pores do not have this curvature). The change in the grain size during sintering does not make a significant contribution to peak width.
Catheter Ablation for “Lone” Atrial Fibrillation: Efficacy and Predictors of Recurrence
Authors: BUIATTI A. , KAESS B. , REENTS T. , SEMMLER V. , TELISHVESKA M. , BOURIER F. , KORNMAYER M. , KOTTMAIER M. , HESSLING G. , DEISENHOFER I.
Published: January 2016

Catheter Ablation for “Lone” Atrial Fibrillation

Background

Atrial fibrillation in otherwise healthy young patients has been termed “lone” atrial fibrillation (AF). The best treatment choice is still under discussion. The aim of this study was to report on efficacy and safety of catheter ablation.

Methods

Among 855 patients referred to our center between 2011 and 2013, 76 (9%) met the diagnostic criteria for lone AF (mean age 45 ± 8 years; mean LA diameter 37 ± 4 mm; paroxysmal AF 82%; persistent AF 18%). The primary endpoint was freedom from any atrial tachycardia after the first ablation; the secondary endpoint was freedom from any atrial tachycardia after the last ablation procedure without antiarrhythmic drugs.

Results

The primary endpoint occurred in 56 patients (74%) after a mean follow‐up time of 444 ± 344 days. The secondary endpoint occurred in 73 patients (96%) after a mean of 1.3 ablations/patient during a follow‐up time of 459 ± 366 days. The risk of AF recurrence was not influenced by AF duration or by the type of AF (paroxysmal versus persistent). In a multivariate regression analysis smoking (P = 0.001), first degree atrioventricular block (P = 0.001), and early (< 3 months) AF recurrence (P = 0.001) were independently associated with a higher risk of AF recurrence. Major peri‐procedural adverse events did not occur.

Conclusions

Catheter ablation in young healthy patients is highly effective and safe. The outcomes are maintained during long‐term follow‐up irrespective of preoperative AF duration. Patients with AF recurrence were more likely to smoke, have first degree AV block and early AF recurrence.
Circulating memory B cells and plasmablasts are associated with the levels of serum immunoglobulin in patients with ulcerative colitis
Authors: Wang Xinrui , Jiang Yanfang , Zhu Yonggang , Zhang Manli , Li Man , Wang Hongjuan , Gao Pujun
Published: January 2016

Humoural immunity is crucial for the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis (UC), but the precise perturbation of B cell immunity is poorly understood. This study is aimed at evaluating the numbers of different subsets of circulating memory B cells, plasmablasts, and the levels of serum immunoglobulin in UC patients. Total of 23 patients with active UC and 14 healthy controls (HC) were examined for the numbers of different subsets of circulating memory B cells and plasmablasts before and after treatment with mesalazine for 8–12 weeks by flow cytometry. Disease activity was evaluated by the Mayo clinic score. The levels of serum immunoglobulin, C‐reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) were measured in individual subjects. In comparison with that in HC, significantly reduced numbers of IgG+ IgD− CD27+ CD19+ memory B cells, increased numbers of CD20− CD19+ plasmablast subsets, and higher serum IgG levels were detected in UC patients. The concentrations of serum IgG, the numbers of CD138+ CD38+ CD20− CD19+, and IgG+ CD38+ CD20− CD19+ plasmablasts were negatively associated with the numbers of IgG+ IgD− CD27+ CD19+ memory B cells. Furthermore, the values of Mayo clinic score, CRP, or ESR in UC patients were negatively correlated with the numbers of IgG+ IgD− CD27+ CD19+ memory B cells, while positively correlated with the serum IgG levels and the numbers of plasmablast subsets. Following treatment with mesalazine, the numbers of circulating IgG+ IgD− CD27+ CD19+ memory B cells were significantly increased, while the numbers of CD138+ CD38+ CD20− CD19+ and IgG+ CD38+ CD20− CD19+ plasmablasts were reduced in UC patients. These decreased IgG+ IgD− CD27+ CD19+ memory B cells and increased plasmablasts may be involved in the pathogenic process of UC.
The need for a holistic approach in mangrove‐related fisheries research: a specific review of the German and Brazilian research project MADAM
Authors: Saint‐Paul U. , Schneider H.
Published: January 2016

The main objective of the bilateral German–Brazilian mangrove development and management (MADAM) programme (mangrove dynamics and management) was to generate the scientific basis to enable the sustainable stewardship of the resources of the Caeté mangrove estuary in north‐east Brazil in the sense of integrated coastal (zone) management. Main emphasis was given to fishes and crabs captured by artisanal fishermen. This paper describes the project strategy as developed and modified in the context of research results obtained over a period of 10 years. It is argued that a continuous discussion process is essential to assess the validity of the strategies formulated at the beginning of a medium‐term project, particularly if the project is of an interdisciplinary nature. To achieve this, it was necessary to acquire in‐depth knowledge of natural processes as well as of the relevant institutional, cultural, economic, social and political dynamics.
Kefir Grain Biomass Production: Influence of Different Culturing Conditions and Examination of Growth Kinetic Models
Authors: Apar Dilek Kiliç , Demirhan Elçin , Özel Birsen , Özbek Belma
Published: January 2016

In this study, kefir grain biomass growth was investigated in whey enriched with some additives such as yoghurt, milk, glucose, sucrose, yeast extract and carob extract. The fermentation experiments were carried out at 27°C for 10 days by refreshing the cultivation media at the end of each 24 h fermentation period. Maximum and minimum biomass increases were obtained as 1,438 and 836% in whey enriched with 5% (w/v) yeast extract and 10% (v/v) carob extract, respectively. Kefir biomass increase and fermentation kinetics were examined at different temperatures (17, 27, 37°C) and different initial kefir grain concentrations (2.5, 5, 7.5%) for selected culture mediums (in whey and in whey enriched with milk and yoghurt). Optimum temperature and initial grain concentration for kefir biomass growth were obtained as 27°C and 5% for all examined mediums. Modelling studies were performed and various kinetic models tested to represent the kefir biomass growth and fermentation kinetics. The convenience of the kefir biomass growth to the Monod kinetics was also examined.

Practical Applications

The varied microbial composition of kefir grains provides novel applications to them, such as, in bread production as baker's yeast, cheese production, polysaccharide production, volatile aroma compound production and ethanol production. The biomass increase of kefir grains by traditional inoculation in milk is relatively low, hence to use kefir grains in commercial applications their production has to be improved using alternative cultivation mediums and optimizing the process conditions. So in the study presented by this article the kinetics of kefir grain biomass growth was investigated in whey (an alternative raw material for kefir biomass production that is a dairy liquid waste of negligible cost) enriched with additives such as yoghurt, milk, glucose, sucrose, yeast extract and carob extract to improve the biomass production of kefir and use the whey as an effective low cost substrate. Also the effect of temperature and initial kefir grain concentration on biomass production and fermentation were examined and different mathematical models were analyzed to represent the kefir biomass growth and kefir fermentation kinetics.
Evaluation of the Kinetics of Ascorbic Acid (AA) Release from Alginate‐Whey Protein Concentrates (AL‐WPC) Microspheres at the Simulated Gastro–Intestinal Condition
Authors: Zandi M.
Published: January 2016

The aim of this work was to study the Ascorbic Acid (AA) release mechanism from Alginate‐Whey Protein concentrates (AL‐WPC) microsphere at the gastro–intestinal situation. Then, release mechanisms were indicated by using various kinetic models, including Zero order, Kopcha model, Makoid–Banakar model, Higuchi's model, First‐order model and Korsmeyer–Peppas model. It was found that the release occurs faster in the presence of shear force, pepsin enzyme and pH of 1.5 at gastric condition. It was also shown that the presence of pancreatin enzyme and simulated intestinal shear force significantly increased release rate; however, AA release rate was independent of the intestinal pH. It was also demonstrated that the AA release rate at simulated intestinal situation was increased by about five‐fold in comparison to its release at simulated gastric condition. Results indicated that the AA release in at gastric condition followed the Higuchi model while the release at intestinal condition attributed to First‐order model.

Practical Applications

In present work, we developed our pervious works to produce AA encapsulated AL‐WPC microcapsule using emulsification/internal gelation technique. Final purpose of this work was to study the AA release mechanism from AL‐WPC microsphere at the gastro–intestinal situation. Results indicated that the microcapsules degradation at gastric situation is slight and therefore, microcapsule protected AA against stomach condition. It was also demonstrated that this microcapsule could delay the release at the gastric condition, and it could completely release AA at intestinal condition. The better release of AA at intestinal condition is desirable to achieve the nutrient effect during food consumption. This research suggested that AA‐AL‐WPC microspheres can protect vitamin C against stomach condition. Our developed vesicular system could use to nutrient delivery or controlled nutrient release.
Analysis of Browning of Broiled Foods by Noncontact Techniques: A Case Study for Japanese Eggplant (Solanum Melongena)
Authors: Llave Yvan , Takemori Kenji , Fukuoka Mika , Takemori Toshikazu , Tomita Haruo , Sakai Noboru
Published: January 2016

This study aimed to develop and validate a novel method to analyze the browning behavior of foods during the broiling process by using the combined method of infrared thermography (IRT) and a kinetic browning model. Results were validated with estimated color by using computer vision system (CVS). Surface temperature distribution was captured using an IRT camera. To improve accuracy, temperature was corrected using an effective estimation of sample surface reflection, and the results were used to estimate the L × a × b color distribution with the kinetic browning model. Cylindrical slices of eggplant were broiled up to 20 min. Broiling experiments were performed using a far‐infrared apparatus. Our results showed the potential of the combined method as a browning monitoring tool over traditional methods and CVS. Browning behavior, as evaluated by microstructural analysis, showed that the nonhomogeneous browning distribution of eggplant can be explained by the structural changes induced during broiling.

Practical Applications

Applications of this combined method include but are not limited to (a) practical method for the correction of temperature profiles which were captured by IRT devices, (b) prediction of the color profile of foods undergoing heating process, (c) direct mapping of color distribution, in addition to temperature distribution, allowing for more comprehensive analysis of the sample, in areas beyond the center of the upper surface, and (d) easy detection of overcooked areas in food surfaces during online monitoring.
Shelf Life of Organic Roast Pork Enriched with Acid Whey‐Plant Extracts Combination
Authors: Wójciak Karolina M. , Dolatowski Zbigniew J.
Published: January 2016

The effect of acid whey with plant extracts combination on the shelf‐life of organic roasts during storage was evaluated. The experiment involved pork roasts divided into six groups: two controls (with and without nitrite) and four organics: one with sea salt and whey; and three with sea salt, whey and mustard (Sinapis alba L.), rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.), juniper berry (Juniperus communis L.) extracts respectively. pH value, water activity, heme iron, conjugated diene, TBARS values, microbial and sensory analysis were determined after 1 day of production and after 7 and 15 days of storage at 4C. The plant extracts were examined for their reducing power and ABTS radical scavenging activity.

The addition of whey with mustard seed extract had a positive effect on quality, shelf‐life and sensory acceptance of organic meat product during storage. Furthermore, it was found that the sodium nitrite dose, added to the roast pork, could be eliminated when mustard seed extract with acid whey combination was added, without negative effects on the quality and shelf life of the product.

Practical Applications

The organic food regulations preclude the use of sodium nitrite/nitrate and other synthetic antimicrobials and antioxidants for processed meat products. Lipid oxidation with microbial spoilage is one of the major problems encountered in meat processing following roasting and subsequent chilling storage. It affects the quality of the organic product and reduces its shelf life. The natural substances from aromatic herbs and spices can act as antimicrobials and antioxidants which could stabilize lipid oxidation, color and microbial growth thus extending shelf life of meat products without necessary of nitrite add.
Obstetrician–Gynecologist Practices and Beliefs Regarding External Genitalia Inspection and Speculum Examinations in Healthy Older Asymptomatic Women
Authors: Hsu Amy , Henderson Jillian T. , Harper Cynthia C. , Sawaya George F.
Published: January 2016

Objectives

To understand obstetrician–gynecologist perceptions of the value of external genitalia inspection and speculum examinations in older and younger healthy women across the life span.

Design

National survey from May 2010 to January 2011 asking obstetrician–gynecologists about the need for and importance of external inspection and speculum examination in four scenarios of asymptomatic healthy women aged 70, 55, 35, and 18 who present for routine health visits. Separate questions asked about the importance of various reasons for these examinations.

Setting

Mail‐in survey of a national sample of obstetrician–gynecologists.

Participants

Probability sample of obstetrician–gynecologists from the American Medical Association Physician Masterfile (N = 521).

Measurements

Proportion of obstetrician–gynecologists who would perform external inspection and speculum examinations and consider these examinations to be very important.

Results

The response rate was 62%. In a healthy 70‐year‐old woman, 98% of respondents would perform external inspection, and 86% would perform a speculum examination. Ninety percent would perform a speculum examination in a healthy 55‐year‐old woman after removal of her uterus, cervix, and ovaries. Respondents more often indicated that the external examination was very important in the 70‐year‐old (63%) than in younger women (46–53%). Reasons rated as very important included identifying cancers and benign lesions, reassuring women of their health, and adhering to standard of care.

Conclusion

Obstetrician–gynecologists would commonly perform external and speculum examinations in asymptomatic women and believe the external examination to be particularly important in older women for cancer detection. Clinicians should discuss limitations of screening pelvic examination guidelines and elicit health goals from older women to provide more person‐centered gynecological care.
What do we know about sulforaphane protection against photoaging?
Authors: Sikdar Sohely , Papadopoulou Maria , Dubois Jacques
Published: January 2016

Sulforaphane (SFN), a natural compound occurring in cruciferous vegetables, has been known for years as a chemopreventive agent against many types of cancer. Recently, it has been investigated as an antioxidant and anti‐aging agent, and interesting conclusions have been made over the last decade. SFN demonstrated protective effects against ultraviolet (UV)‐induced skin damage through several mechanisms of action, for example, decrease of reactive oxygen species production, inhibition of matrix metalloproteinase expression, and induction of phase 2 enzymes. SFN used as a protective agent against UV damage is a whole new matter, and it seems to be a very promising ingredient in upcoming anti‐aging drugs and cosmetics.
Comparison of Heidelberg Retina Tomograph with disc‐macula distance to disc diameter ratio in diagnosing optic nerve hypoplasia
Authors: Pang Yi , Frantz Kelly A.
Published: January 2016

Purpose

To evaluate whether Heidelberg Retinal Tomograph (HRT) is a valid test for diagnosing congenital optic nerve hypoplasia (CONH) compared to the ratio of the distance between the centre of the optic disc and the centre of the macula and the mean optic disc diameter (DM:DD ratio). Furthermore, to determine the optimal cut‐off value of HRT disc area to differentiate a hypoplastic disc from a normal optic disc.

Methods

A total of 33 subjects with CONH (4–67 years old) and 160 normal subjects (5–65 years old) were recruited and underwent comprehensive eye examinations, fundus photography and HRT. Receiver operating characteristic curves for DM:DD ratio and HRT disc area were constructed based on data from the 46 CONH eyes and 160 control eyes.

Results

Mean (±S.D.) HRT disc area was 1.94 (±0.54) mm2 for the control eyes and 0.84 (±0.35) mm2 for the CONH eyes (p < 0.0001). The area under the curve (AUC) for DM:DD ratio was 0.83 (95% confidence interval: 0.76–0.90). The AUC for HRT disc area was 0.96 (95% confidence interval: 0.94–0.99). A statistically significant difference was found between AUC for HRT disc area and that for DM:DD ratio (p = 0.0004). The optimal cut‐off value for HRT disc area was 1.42 mm2 with 95% sensitivity and 85% specificity. The optimal cut‐off value for DM:DD ratio was 3.20 with 78% sensitivity and 78% specificity.

Conclusions

Both HRT and the DM:DD ratio are valid tests to aid diagnosis of CONH. HRT is superior to DM:DD ratio in diagnosing CONH with higher sensitivity and specificity. We suggest the optimal cut‐off value for HRT disc area as 1.42 mm2 in order to discriminate a hypoplastic disc from a normal optic disc.
Improving nutritional quality and fungal tolerance in soya bean and grass pea by expressing an oxalate decarboxylase
Authors: Kumar Vinay , Chattopadhyay Arnab , Ghosh Sumit , Irfan Mohammad , Chakraborty Niranjan , Chakraborty Subhra , Datta Asis
Published: January 2016

Soya bean (Glycine max) and grass pea (Lathyrus sativus) seeds are important sources of dietary proteins; however, they also contain antinutritional metabolite oxalic acid (OA). Excess dietary intake of OA leads to nephrolithiasis due to the formation of calcium oxalate crystals in kidneys. Besides, OA is also a known precursor of β‐N‐oxalyl‐L‐α,β‐diaminopropionic acid (β‐ODAP), a neurotoxin found in grass pea. Here, we report the reduction in OA level in soya bean (up to 73%) and grass pea (up to 75%) seeds by constitutive and/or seed‐specific expression of an oxalate‐degrading enzyme, oxalate decarboxylase (FvOXDC) of Flammulina velutipes. In addition, β‐ODAP level of grass pea seeds was also reduced up to 73%. Reduced OA content was interrelated with the associated increase in seeds micronutrients such as calcium, iron and zinc. Moreover, constitutive expression of FvOXDC led to improved tolerance to the fungal pathogen Sclerotinia sclerotiorum that requires OA during host colonization. Importantly, FvOXDC‐expressing soya bean and grass pea plants were similar to the wild type with respect to the morphology and photosynthetic rates, and seed protein pool remained unaltered as revealed by the comparative proteomic analysis. Taken together, these results demonstrated improved seed quality and tolerance to the fungal pathogen in two important legume crops, by the expression of an oxalate‐degrading enzyme.
The Illusion of Choice in Democratic Politics: The Unconscious Impact of Motivated Political Reasoning
Authors: Taber Charles S. , Lodge Milton
Published: January 2016

What are the fundamental causes of human behavior and to what degree is it intended, consciously controlled? We review the literature on automaticity in human behavior with an emphasis on our own theory of motivated political reasoning, John Q. Public, and the experimental evidence we have collected (Lodge & Taber, 2013). Our fundamental theoretical claim is that affective and cognitive reactions to external and internal events are triggered unconsciously, followed spontaneously by the spreading of activation through associative pathways that link thoughts to feelings to intentions to behavior, so that very early events, even those that are invisible to conscious awareness, set the direction for all subsequent processing. We find evidence in support of four hypotheses that are central to our theory: hot cognition, affect transfer, affect contagion, and motivated bias.
Building a Tower of Babel? Integrating Core Motivations and Features of Social Structure into the Political Psychology of Political Action
Authors: van Zomeren Martijn
Published: January 2016

The political psychology of political action provides the potential for building bridges between scholars from different fields. The main aim of this article is to set some baby steps toward building two conceptual bridges by bringing together acore motivationapproach to political action withcore features of the social structurethat embeds those core motivations. The first conceptual bridge relies on considering abroadermotivational model than provided by rational actor or social identity approaches, whereas the second bridge relies on considering core features of thesocial structureas potentiating these core motivations for political action. More specifically, I first discuss definitions of political action. Second, I identifyfour converging themesacross different literatures on collective action, social movement participation, and voting turnout, resulting in ataxonomyofcore motivationsfor political action (i.e., personal or group‐based identity, efficacy, emotion, and moral motivations). Third, in a more explorative fashion I identifyfour core featuresof the social structure (ingroup, outgroup, interpersonal network, and institutional features), which I tentatively connect with the taxonomy of core motivations. Finally, I discuss the theoretical, empirical, and practicalimplicationsof this generalist, generative, and integrative perspective on political action.
Approach‐motivated pregoal states enhance the reward positivity
Authors: Threadgill A. Hunter , Gable Philip A.
Published: January 2016

Past work has demonstrated that the reward positivity (RewP) indexes a performance‐monitoring system sensitive to positive outcomes. However, studies have not investigated how approach‐motivated states occurring in goal pursuit influence performance monitoring. Using a modified monetary incentive delay task, participants played a reaction time game evoking approach‐motivated pregoal (reward trials) or neutral (no‐reward trials) states. Then, they received trial feedback resulting in monetary gain or no gain. Results revealed that the RewP was larger to win feedback on reward trials than win or no‐win feedback after neutral trials. P3 amplitudes were larger to infrequent feedback than frequent feedback, regardless of trial type or outcome. Furthermore, faster reaction times on reward trials related to larger RewP amplitudes after approach‐motivated pregoal states. Approach‐motivated pregoal states enhance RewP amplitudes for both successful and unsuccessful goal outcomes. Enhanced performance, as measured by faster reaction times, in approach‐motivated pregoal states relates to enhanced performance monitoring.
The implementation of an environmental flow regime results in ecological recovery of regulated rivers
Authors: Growns Ivor
Published: January 2016

Environmental flows are the main restoration technique used to ameliorate the ecological effects of regulation in rivers. However, their effectiveness has yet to be unanimously accepted. This study assessed the potential ecological benefits of the application of an environmental flow regime downstream of four dams and two weirs in the Upper Nepean River system, Sydney, Australia. Aquatic macroinvertebrates in three habitat types were sampled at water‐supply and low‐flow sites and unregulated sites in 1995 and 1996, prior to the environmental flows and in 2013 and 2014, approximately 13 years following the environmental flows. The macroinvertebrate assemblage structure was significantly different between regulated and reference sites and the number of taxa lower at water‐supply sites prior to the implementation of the environmental flows. Following the environmental flows, the assemblage structure became more similar to, although still significantly different from, the unregulated sites and the number of taxa was not significantly different between regulated and unregulated sites. Thirteen or approximately 30% of taxa indicative of unregulated rivers increased in frequency at regulated sites following the environmental flows. Despite potentially similar dispersal capabilities the remainder of the taxa failed to respond the new flow regimes. The mechanisms resulting in recovery of some taxa but not others remain unclear and require further investigation as the basis of future research and monitoring. Such information and knowledge would support the application of future environmental flow regimes as the primary mechanism to ameliorate the ecological effects of river regulation.
Health‐Economics Analyses Applied to ELF Electric and Magnetic Fields
Authors: Kandel Shaiela , Swanson John , Kheifets Leeka
Published: January 2016

Extremely low frequency electric and magnetic fields (ELF EMFs) are a common exposure for modern populations. The prevailing public‐health protection paradigm is that quantitative exposure limits are based on the established acute effects, whereas the possible chronic effects are considered too uncertain for quantitative limits, but might justify precautionary measures. The choice of precautionary measures can be informed by a health‐economics analysis (HEA).

We consider four such analyses of precautionary measures that have been conducted at a national or state level in California, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and Israel.

We describe the context of each analysis, examine how they deal with some of the more significant issues that arise, and present a comparison of the input parameters and assumptions used.

The four HEAs are methodologically similar. The most significant qualitative choices that have to be made are what dose‐response relationship to assume, what allowance if any to make for uncertainty, and, for a CBA only, what diseases to consider, and all four analyses made similar choices.

These analyses suggest that, on the assumptions made, there are some low‐cost measures, such as rephasing, that can be applied to transmission in some circumstances and that can be justifiable in cost‐benefit terms, but that higher cost measures, such as undergrounding, become unjustifiable. Of the four HEAs, those in the United Kingdom and Israel were influential in determining the country's EMF policy. In California and Netherlands, the HEA may well have informed the debate, but the policy chosen did not stem directly from the HEA.
Cross‐cultural care encounters in paediatric care: minority ethnic parents’ experiences
Authors: Tavallali Azar Gashasb , Jirwe Maria , Kabir Zarina Nahar
Published: January 2016

Background

Because of worldwide migration, the healthcare staff in general as well as in paedi"atric care specifically is challenged increasingly by people from various ethnic backgrounds. The challenge is related to providing culturally competent care and effectively communicating with people from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds who have different health beliefs, practices, values and languages. This also applies to the Swedish society and to Swedish paediatric care.

Aim

The purpose of this study was to describe the expectations and experiences of cross‐cultural care encounters among minority ethnic parents in Swedish paediatric care.

Method

A qualitative design was used in the study. Data were collected using semi‐structured interviews between October 2011 and March 2012. The sample consisted of 12 parents of minority ethnic backgrounds who had their child in a ward at a children's hospital in the Stockholm County Council. The interviews were analysed using manifest content analysis.

Ethical considerations

The Regional Ethical Review Committee approved the study (Ref: Nr: 2011/927‐31/5).

Results

The analysis of the interviews led to three categories: fundamentals in nursing, cultural sensitivity and understanding, and influencing conditions.

Conclusions

Generic knowledge and skills of nurses outweighed the need for the nurses to have culture‐specific knowledge of their patients or relatives in cross‐cultural care encounters. Language skills and the availability of bilingual nurses in a multi‐ethnic society can facilitate communication and increase parents’ satisfaction in cross‐cultural care encounters.
The dilemma of managing human rabies encephalitis
Authors: Warrell M. J.
Published: January 2016

La rage humaine acquise des chiens et d'autres mammifères terrestres reste mortelle à 100%. Beaucoup d'autres patients atteints de la rage et traités avec des soins intensifs experts décèdent dans la phase aiguë ou se retrouvent avec de sévères troubles neurologiques. Avec un tel tableau et aucun traitement antiviral spécifique, comment les cliniciens devraient‐ils prendre en charge les patients atteints de cette maladie épouvantable, en particulier dans les pays pauvres où la rage canine est endémique?
Caring for patients with rabies in developing countries – the neglected importance of palliative care
Authors: Tarantola Arnaud , Crabol Yoann , Mahendra Bangalore Jayakrishnappa , In Sotheary , Barennes Hubert , Bourhy Hervé , Peng Yiksing , Ly Sowath , Buchy Philippe
Published: January 2016

Although limited publications address clinical management of symptomatic patients with rabies in intensive care units, the overwhelming majority of human rabies cases occur in the rural setting of developing countries where healthcare workers are few, lack training and drugs. Based on our experience, we suggest how clinicians in resource‐limited settings can make best use of essential drugs to provide assistance to patients with rabies and their families, at no risk to themselves. Comprehensive and compassionate patient management of furious rabies should aim to alleviate thirst, anxiety and epileptic fits using infusions, diazepam or midazolam and antipyretic drugs via intravenous or intrarectal routes. Although the patient is dying, respiratory failure must be avoided especially if the family, after being informed, wish to take the patient home alive for funereal rites to be observed. Healthcare staff should be trained and clinical guidelines should be updated to include palliative care for rabies in endemic countries.
Full‐thickness porcine burns infected with Staphylococcus aureus or Pseudomonas aeruginosa can be effectively treated with topical antibiotics
Authors: Tsai David M. , Tracy Lauren E. , Lee Cameron C. Y. , Hackl Florian , Kiwanuka Elizabeth , Minasian Raquel A. , Onderdonk Andrew , Junker Johan P. E. , Eriksson Elof , Caterson E. J.
Published: January 2016

Burn and blast injuries are frequently complicated by invasive infections, which lead to poor wound healing, delay in treatment, disability, or death. Traditional approach centers on early debridement, fluid resuscitation, and adjunct intravenous antibiotics. These modalities often prove inadequate in burns, where compromised local vasculature limits the tissue penetration of systemic antibiotics. Here, we demonstrate the treatment of infected burns with topical delivery of ultrahigh concentrations of antibiotics. Standardized burns were inoculated with Staphylococcus aureus or Pseudomonas aeruginosa. After debridement, burns were treated with either gentamicin (2 mg/mL) or minocycline (1 mg/mL) at concentrations greater than 1,000 times the minimum inhibitory concentration. Amount of bacteria was quantified in tissue biopsies and wound fluid following treatment. After six days of gentamicin or minocycline treatment, S. aureus counts decreased from 4.2 to 0.31 and 0.72 log CFU/g in tissue, respectively. Similarly, P. aeruginosa counts decreased from 2.5 to 0.0 and 1.5 log CFU/g in tissue, respectively. Counts of both S. aureus and P. aeruginosa remained at a baseline of 0.0 log CFU/mL in wound fluid for both treatment groups. The findings here demonstrate that super‐therapeutic concentrations of antibiotics delivered topically can rapidly reduce bacterial counts in infected full‐thickness porcine burns. This treatment approach may aid wound bed preparation and accelerate time to grafting.
Extracorporeal shock waves modulate myofibroblast differentiation of adipose‐derived stem cells
Authors: Rinella Letizia , Marano Francesca , Berta Laura , Bosco Ornella , Fraccalvieri Marco , Fortunati Nicoletta , Frairia Roberto , Catalano Maria Graziella
Published: January 2016

Mesenchymal stem cells are precursors of myofibroblasts, cells deeply involved in promoting tissue repair and regeneration. However, since myofibroblast persistence is associated with the development of tissue fibrosis, the use of tools that can modulate stem cell differentiation toward myofibroblasts is central. Extracorporeal shock waves are transient short‐term acoustic pulses first employed to treat urinary stones. They are a leading choice in the treatment of several orthopedic diseases and, notably, they have been reported as an effective treatment for patients with fibrotic sequels from burn scars. Based on these considerations, the aim of this study is to define the role of shock waves in modulating the differentiation of human adipose‐derived stem cells toward myofibroblasts. Shock waves inhibit the development of a myofibroblast phenotype; they down‐regulate the expression of the myofibroblast marker alpha smooth muscle actin and the extracellular matrix protein type I collagen. Functionally, stem cells acquire a more fibroblast‐like profile characterized by a low contractility and a high migratory ability. Shock wave treatment reduces the expression of integrin alpha 11, a major collagen receptor in fibroblastic cells, involved in myofibroblast differentiation. Mechanistically, the resistance of integrin alpha 11‐overexpressing cells to shock waves in terms of alpha smooth muscle actin expression and cell migration and contraction suggests also a role of this integrin in the translation of shock wave signal into stem cell responses. In conclusion, this in vitro study shows that stem cell differentiation toward myofibroblasts can be controlled by shock waves and, consequently, sustains their use as a therapeutic approach in reducing the risk of skin and tissue fibrosis.
A fast and stable solver for acoustic scattering problems based on the nonuniform grid approach
Authors: Chernokozhin Evgeny , Brick Yaniv , Boag Amir
Published: January 2016

A fast and stable boundary element method (BEM) algorithm for solving external problems of acoustic scattering by impenetrable bodies is developed. The method employs the Burton–Miller integral equation, which provides stable convergence of iterative solvers, and a generalized multilevel nonuniform grid (MLNG) algorithm for fast evaluation of field integrals. The MLNG approach is used here for the removal of computational bottlenecks involved with repeated matrix-vector multiplications as well as for the low-order basis function regularization of the hyper-singular integral kernel. The method is used for calculating the fields scattered by large acoustic scatterers, including nonconvex bodies with piece-wise smooth surfaces. As a result, the algorithm is capable of accurately incorporating high-frequency effects such as creeping waves and multiple-edges diffractions. In all cases, stable convergence of the method is observed. High accuracy of the method is demonstrated by comparison with the traditional BEM solution. The computational complexity of the method in terms of both the computation time and storage is estimated in practical computations and shown to be close to the asymptotic O(N log N) dependence.
The intelligibility of interrupted and temporally altered speech: Effects of context, age, and hearing loss
Authors: Shafiro Valeriy , Sheft Stanley , Risley Robert
Published: January 2016

Temporal constraints on the perception of interrupted speech were investigated by comparing the intelligibility of speech that was periodically gated (PG) and subsequently either temporally compressed (PGTC) by concatenating remaining speech fragments or temporally expanded (PGTE) by doubling the silent intervals between speech fragments. Experiment 1 examined the effects of PGTC and PGTE at different gating rates (0.5 –16 Hz) on the intelligibility of words and sentences for young normal-hearing adults. In experiment 2, older normal-hearing (ONH) and older hearing-impaired (OHI) adults were tested with sentences only. The results of experiment 1 indicated that sentences were more intelligible than words. In both experiments, PGTC sentences were less intelligible than either PG or PGTE sentences. Compared with PG sentences, the intelligibility of PGTE sentences was significantly reduced by the same amount for ONH and OHI groups. Temporal alterations tended to produce a U-shaped rate-intelligibility function with a dip at 2–4 Hz, indicating that temporal alterations interacted with the duration of speech fragments. The present findings demonstrate that both aging and hearing loss negatively affect the overall intelligibility of interrupted and temporally altered speech. However, a mild-to-moderate hearing loss did not exacerbate the negative effects of temporal alterations associated with aging.