bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The epidemiological feedbacks critical to the evolution of host immunity
Authors: Donnelly R. , White A. , Boots M.
Published: August 2015

We examine in detail how epidemiological feedbacks combine with costs and benefits to determine the evolution of resistance by systematically analysing continuously stable strategies (CSS) for different host–parasite frameworks. The mode of resistance (innate versus acquired), the nature of the host (i.e. life‐history and immunological memory) and the nature of the disease (effects on fertility or mortality) all impact on the feedbacks that are critical to the evolution of resistance. By identifying relationships between CSS investment and the underlying epidemiological feedback for each mode of resistance in each framework, we distil complex feedbacks into simple combinations of selection pressures. When the parasite does not affect fertility, CSS investment reflects only the benefit of resistance and we explain why this is markedly different for innate and acquired resistance. If infection has no effect on host fertility, CSS investment in acquired immunity increases with the square of disease prevalence. While in contrast for evolving innate resistance, CSS investment is greatest at intermediate prevalence. When disease impacts fertility, only a fraction of the host population reproduce, and this introduces new ecological feedbacks to both the cost of resistance and the damage from infection. The multiple feedbacks in this case lead to the alternative result that the higher the abundance of infecteds, the higher the investment in innate resistance. A key insight is that maximal investment occurs at intermediate lifespans in a range of different host–parasite interactions, but for disparate reasons which can only be understood by a detailed analysis of the feedbacks. We discuss the extension of our approach to structured host populations and parasite community dynamics.
A new species of Centromochlus (Siluriformes, Auchenipteridae, Centromochlinae) from the middle Rio Tocantins basin, Brazil
Authors: Birindelli J. L. O. , Sarmento‐Soares L. M. , Lima F. C. T.
Published: August 2015

A new species of the catfish genus Centromochlus (Auchenipteridae, Centromochlinae) is described. The new species is diagnosed by having numerous dark rounded blotches over the body and fins, dorsal‐fin spine with serrations anteriorly and smooth posteriorly, anal fin of mature males with three unbranched and seven branched rays, anterior nuchal plate absent and posterior nuchal plate not extended ventrally. The new species is described from a small stream in the Estação Ecológica Serra Geral de Tocantins, a natural reserve in the centre of the Brazilian Cerrado, close to the watershed between the Rio Tocantins and the Rio São Francisco basins. The new species is possibly the sister taxon to the recently described Centromochlus meridionalis from the upper Rio Tapajós. Those two species share with Centromochlus perugiae, from the upper Amazon and upper Paraguay, derived features associated with the modified anal fin in sexually mature males.
Role of fatty acids and micronutrients in healthy ageing: a systematic review of randomised controlled trials set in the context of European dietary surveys of older adults
Authors: Ruxton C. H. S. , Derbyshire E. , Toribio‐Mateas M.
Published: August 2015

Background

Ageing is a multifaceted and inevitable process involving a decline in health and well‐being that could be ameliorated by dietary modification. We review and discuss the evidence for nutritional interventions that may support healthy ageing.

Methods

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were used to identify randomised controlled trials investigating the role(s) of fatty acids and micronutrients in relation to markers of healthy ageing.

Results

European dietary surveys suggest that diets in elderly people are generally high in saturated fat, whereas intakes of vitamin D, magnesium, potassium, zinc and copper are below recommended levels. Thirty‐four studies meeting the criteria were found, with 12 of these investigating the role of fatty acids and 22 considering intakes of micronutrients in relation to healthy ageing. Overall, these studies suggested that certain nutrients were consistent with healthy ageing; for example, omega‐3 fatty acids were helpful for cognitive health, whereas combinations of calcium, vitamin D and K were linked with better bone health.

Conclusions

Vitamin, mineral and fatty acid intakes are in need of improvement to help elderly populations achieve optimal diet quality and support healthy ageing. This could involve the judicious use of supplements alongside dietary advice. Additional research is needed to determine optimal nutrient doses, combinations and forms in relation to desired health outcomes.
Implementing Smart Urban Metabolism in the Stockholm Royal Seaport: Smart City SRS
Authors: Shahrokni Hossein , Årman Louise , Lazarevic David , Nilsson Anders , Brandt Nils
Published: August 2015

For half a century, system scientists have relied on urban metabolism (UM) as a pragmatic framework to support the needed transition toward sustainable urban development. It has been suggested that information and communication technology (ICT) and, more specifically, smart cities can be leveraged in this transition. Given the recent advances in smart cities, smart urban metabolism (SUM) is considered a technology‐enabled evolution of the UM framework, overcoming some of its current limitations. Most significantly, the SUM framework works at high temporal (up to real‐time) and spatial (down to household/individual) resolutions. This article presents the first implementation of SUM in the Smart City Stockholm Royal Seaport R&D project; it further analyzes barriers and discusses the potential long‐term implications of the findings. Four key performance indicators (KPIs) are generated in real time based on the integration of heterogeneous, real‐time data sources. These are kilowatt‐hours per square meter, carbon dioxide equivalents per capita, kilowatt‐hours of primary energy per capita, and share of renewables percentage. These KPIs are fed back on three levels (household, building, and district) on four interfaces, developed for different audiences. The most challenging barrier identified was accessing and integrating siloed data from the different data owners (utilities, building owners, and so forth). It is hard to overcome unless a significant value is perceived. A number of long‐term opportunities were described in the SUM context; among those, it is envisioned that SUM could enable a new understanding of the causalities that govern urbanism and allow citizens and city officials to receive feedback on the system consequences of their choices.
Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Life Cycle Assessments for Wood Energy Services
Authors: Wolf Christian , Klein Daniel , Weber‐Blaschke Gabriele , Richter Klaus
Published: August 2015

Environmental impacts of the provision of wood energy have been analyzed through life cycle assessment (LCA) techniques for many years. Systems for the generation of heat, power, and combined heat and power (CHP) differ, and methodological choices for LCA can vary greatly, leading to inconsistent findings. We analyzed factors that promote these findings by conducting a systematic review and meta‐analysis of existing LCA studies for wood energy services. The systematic review investigated crucial methodological and systemic factors, such as system boundaries, allocation, transportation, and technologies, for transformation and conversion of North American and European LCA studies. Meta‐Analysis was performed on published results in the impact category global warming (GW). A total of 30 studies with 97 systems were incorporated. The studies exhibit great differences in their systemic and methodological choices, as well as their functional units, technologies, and resulting outcomes. A total of 44 systems for the generation of power, with a median impact on GW of 0.169 kilograms (kg) of carbon dioxide equivalents (CO2‐eq) per kilowatt‐hour (kWhel), were identified. Results for the biomass fraction only show a median impact on GW of 0.098 kg CO2‐eq * kWhel−1. A total of 31 systems producing heat exhibited a median impact on GW of 0.040 kg CO2‐eq * kWhth−1. With a median impact on GW of 0.066 kg CO2‐eq * kWhel+th−1, CHP systems show the greatest variability among all analyzed wood energy services. To facilitate comparisons, we propose a methodological approach for the description of system boundaries, the basis for calculations, and reporting of findings.
Predictors of Compassion Fatigue and Compassion Satisfaction in Acute Care Nurses
Authors: Kelly Lesly , Runge Jody , Spencer Christina
Published: August 2015

Purpose

To examine compassion fatigue and compassion satisfaction in acute care nurses across multiple specialties in a hospital‐based setting.

Design

A cross‐sectional electronic survey design was used to collect data from direct care nurses in a 700‐bed, quaternary care, teaching facility in the southwestern United States.

Methods

A total of 491 direct care registered nurses completed a survey measuring their professional quality of life (burnout, secondary traumatic stress, and compassion satisfaction). Analysis was conducted to assess for differences between demographics, specialties, job satisfaction, and intent to leave their current position.

Findings

Significant predictors of burnout included lack of meaningful recognition, nurses with more years of experience, and nurses in the “Millennial” generation (ages 21–33 years). Receiving meaningful recognition, higher job satisfaction, nurses in the “Baby Boomer” generation (ages 50–65 years), and nurses with fewer years of experience significantly predicted compassion satisfaction. No significant differences were noted across nurse specialties, units, or departments.

Conclusions

This study adds to the literature the impact meaningful recognition may have on compassion satisfaction and fatigue. Our findings provide a potential explanation for the lack of retention of nurses in the millennial generation who leave their positions with limited years of experience. Based on our research, meaningful recognition may increase compassion satisfaction, positively impact retention, and elevate job satisfaction.

Clinical Relevance

Compassion fatigue in nurses has clear implications for nursing retention and the quality of care. Organizations willing to invest in reducing compassion fatigue have the potential to improve financial savings by reducing turnover and adverse events associated with burnout.
Clinical implications of omics and systems medicine: focus on predictive and individualized treatment
Authors: Benson M.
Published: August 2015

Many patients with common diseases do not respond to treatment. This is a key challenge to modern health care, which causes both suffering and enormous costs. One important reason for the lack of treatment response is that common diseases are associated with altered interactions between thousands of genes, in combinations that differ between subgroups of patients who do or do not respond to a given treatment. Such subgroups, or even distinct disease entities, have been described recently in asthma, diabetes, autoimmune diseases and cancer. High‐throughput techniques (omics) allow identification and characterization of such subgroups or entities. This may have important clinical implications, such as identification of diagnostic markers for individualized medicine, as well as new therapeutic targets for patients who do not respond to existing drugs. For example, whole‐genome sequencing may be applied to more accurately guide treatment of neurodevelopmental diseases, or to identify drugs specifically targeting mutated genes in cancer. A study published in 2015 showed that 28% of hepatocellular carcinomas contained mutated genes that potentially could be targeted by drugs already approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. A translational study, which is described in detail, showed how combined omics, computational, functional and clinical studies could identify and validate a novel diagnostic and therapeutic candidate gene in allergy. Another important clinical implication is the identification of potential diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets for predictive and preventative medicine. By combining computational and experimental methods, early disease regulators may be identified and potentially used to predict and treat disease before it becomes symptomatic. Systems medicine is an emerging discipline, which may contribute to such developments through combining omics with computational, functional and clinical studies. The aims of this review are to provide a brief introduction to systems medicine and discuss how it may contribute to the clinical implementation of individualized treatment, using clinically relevant examples.
Peers Increase Late Adolescents' Exploratory Behavior and Sensitivity to Positive and Negative Feedback
Authors: Silva Karol , Shulman Elizabeth P. , Chein Jason , Steinberg Laurence
Published: August 2015

Adolescents take more risks with peers than when alone. It is not clear how peer presence affects adolescents' risky decision making, however. We used the Iowa Gambling Task (IGT)—a game used to assess decision making involving risk and reward—to examine how peers affect late adolescents' exploration of relevant environmental cues, ability to learn from the outcomes (positive and negative) of that exploration, and ability to integrate feedback to adjust behavior toward optimal long‐term outcomes. One hundred and one 18‐ to 22‐year old males (M = 19.8 years) were randomly assigned to play the IGT either alone or observed by peers. Late adolescents tested with observers engaged in more exploratory behavior, learned faster from both positive and negative outcomes, and evinced better task performance than those tested alone.
Determinants of Work‐at‐Home Arrangements for German Employees
Authors: Sarbu Miruna
Published: August 2015

Flexible work arrangements such as allowing employees to work at home are increasingly widespread among firms. Using individual‐level data from 10,884 German employees, this paper analyses the determinants of working at home. The analysis is based on descriptive analyses and a discrete choice model. The results reveal that men have a higher probability to work at home, but women are more likely to work at home intensively. Education, tenure, and the use of computers increase the probability of working at home whereas firm size and young age of employees reduce it. Having children less than 6 years old, overtime, and work time have a positive impact on both working at home and on working at home intensively.
The Meteoritical Bulletin, No. 102
Authors: Ruzicka Alex , Grossman Jeffrey , Bouvier Audrey , Herd Christopher D. K. , Agee Carl B.
Published: August 2015

Meteoritical Bulletin 102 contains 3141 meteorites including 12 falls (Boumdeid (2003), Boumdeid (2011), Braunschweig, Chelyabinsk, Dongyang, Draveil, Heyetang, Indian Butte, Katol, Ladkee, Ouadangou, Xining), with 2611 ordinary chondrites, 264 HED achondrites, 124 carbonaceous chondrites, 30 ureilites, 20 Martian meteorites, 16 primitive achondrites, 16 Rumuruti chondrites, 15 mesosiderites, 12 iron meteorites, 10 lunar meteorites, 9 enstatite chondrites, 4 enstatite achondrites, 4 Pallasites, 4 ungrouped achondrites, and 2 angrites, and with 1708 from Antarctica, 956 from Africa, 294 from South America, 126 from Asia, 47 from North America, 6 from Europe (including Russia), and 4 from Oceania. Information about approved meteorites can be obtained from the Meteoritical Bulletin Database (MBD) available on line at http://www.lpi.usra.edu/meteor/.
Macrophage cell death and transcriptional response are actively triggered by the fungal virulence factor Cbp1 during H. capsulatum infection
Authors: Isaac Dervla T. , Berkes Charlotte A. , English Bevin C. , Hocking Murray Davina , Lee Young Nam , Coady Alison , Sil Anita
Published: August 2015

Microbial pathogens induce or inhibit death of host cells during infection, with significant consequences for virulence and disease progression. Death of an infected host cell can either facilitate release and dissemination of intracellular pathogens or promote pathogen clearance. Histoplasma capsulatum is an intracellular fungal pathogen that replicates robustly within macrophages and triggers macrophage lysis by unknown means. To identify H. capsulatum effectors of macrophage lysis, we performed a genetic screen and discovered three mutants that grew to wild‐type levels within macrophages but failed to elicit host‐cell death. Each mutant was defective in production of the previously identified secreted protein Cbp1 (calcium‐binding protein 1), whose role in intracellular growth had not been fully investigated. We found that Cbp1 was dispensable for high levels of intracellular growth but required to elicit a unique transcriptional signature in macrophages, including genes whose induction was previously associated with endoplasmic reticulum stress and host‐cell death. Additionally, Cbp1 was required for activation of cell‐death caspases‐3/7, and macrophage death during H. capsulatum infection was dependent on the pro‐apoptotic proteins Bax and Bak. Taken together, these findings strongly suggest that the ability of Cbp1 to actively program host‐cell death is an essential step in H. capsulatum pathogenesis.
Pandemic influenza virus, pH1N1, induces asthmatic symptoms via activation of innate lymphoid cells
Authors: Shim D. H. , Park Y. A. , Kim M. J. , Hong J. Y. , Baek J. Y. , Kim K. W. , Byun Y.‐h. , Seong B.‐L. , Ryu S. , Song M. K. , Hong K.‐J. , Na W. , Song D. , Park J. H. , Sohn M. H. , Lee J. M.
Published: August 2015

Background

The pandemic strain of the influenza A virus (pH1N1) in 2009 caused many complications in patients. In this study, we introduce asthmatic symptoms as a complication of pH1N1 infection in children, not having a relationship with asthma history. The aim of this study was to quantify asthmatic symptoms in pH1N1‐infected children and elucidate the underlying mechanisms of airway hyper‐responsiveness (AHR) induced in a murine model of pH1N1 infection.

Methods

As a retrospective study, pH1N1‐infected children who were hospitalized with moderate to severe acute asthmatic symptoms were enrolled and administered a methacholine challenge test (MCT) at 3 months post‐discharge. Additionally, the induction of AHR by pH1N1 infection was measured by MCT in wild‐type and Rag1−/− mice. The effect of the innate immune response on the development of AHR following pH1N1 infection was investigated.

Results

More than 70% of the pH1N1‐infected children without a pre‐infection diagnosis of asthma had a negative response on the MCT. None of these children had recurrent wheezing or asthma during the 3 years following pH1N1 infection. The development of AHR in pH1N1‐infected mice was associated with an elevation in IL‐33 and innate lymphoid cells 2 (ILC2).

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that pH1N1 infection directly induces transient asthmatic symptoms in patients regardless of their medical history. pH1N1 infection was shown to stimulate the rapid development of AHR and Th2‐type cytokine secretion in mice via the activation of ILC2; it may be activated independently of adaptive immunity.
The patient experience of sleep problems and their treatment in the context of current delusions and hallucinations
Authors: Waite Felicity , Evans Nicole , Myers Elissa , Startup Helen , Lister Rachel , Harvey Allison G. , Freeman Daniel
Published: August 2015

Objectives

There is increasing recognition that sleep problems are common in patients with psychosis, that they exacerbate delusions and hallucinations and should be a treatment target. The aim of this study was to gain a patient perspective on the nature of sleep problems in psychosis and experience of treatment.

Design

A qualitative, semi‐structured interview‐based study to explore patient accounts of sleep problems and associated psychological treatment.

Methods

Ten patients with recent delusions and hallucinations, who had experienced sleep problems and received psychological treatment during a clinical trial (the Better Sleep Trial), were interviewed. Responses were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis.

Results

Patients reported experiencing problems of getting to sleep, staying asleep, too much sleep, nightmares, and erratic sleep patterns. These sleep problems caused emotional distress, fatigue, and reduction in daytime activities. Worry and psychotic experiences disturbed sleep, while consequent tiredness meant that patients coped poorly with voices and persecutory fears. Treatment for sleep problems was viewed very positively and considered to have wide‐ranging impacts.

Conclusions

Sleep disturbance is a major problem for patients with psychosis, which should be treated more often in services using evidence‐based interventions.

Practitioner points

Psychological interventions for sleep problems are valued by patients with psychosis.

Patients with current distressing psychotic experiences report wide‐ranging benefits from a brief psychological intervention for sleep problems.
Case formulation in clinical practice: Associations with psychological mindedness, attachment and burnout in staff working with people experiencing psychosis
Authors: Hartley Samantha , Jovanoska Jelena , Roberts Susan , Burden Nicolas , Berry Katherine
Published: August 2015

Objectives

Case formulation can impact on therapeutic relationships, staff understanding and outcomes, which might be particularly important when working with complex mental health problems such as psychosis. However, the evidence base is equivocal and there is insufficient understanding around the staff‐related factors that influence effective psychological case formulation. This study investigated the influence of staff characteristics (both professional and personal) on case formulation skill.

Design

This was a cross‐sectional study, with all of the measures collected at the same time point.

Methods

Fifty staff members working on inpatient wards with individuals experiencing psychosis were recruited. Measures included independently rated case formulation skill and psychological mindedness (the ability to draw together aspects of thoughts, feelings and actions), both in relation to hypothetical cases. Self‐report questionnaires assessed psychological mindedness, attachment styles, symptoms of burnout and professional qualifications.

Results

The preliminary analyses indicated that case formulation skill was associated with higher psychological mindedness (both self‐reported and independently‐rated) and lower levels of avoidant attachment styles. Simultaneous entry multiple regression demonstrated that the only independent predictor of case formulation skill was independently rated psychological mindedness.

Conclusions

These findings highlight the factors that contribute to staff's ability to case formulate and the possibility for services to develop psychological mindedness and case formulation skills through formal training, alongside fostering a psychological minded working environment.

Practitioner points

Case formulation skill is positively associated with the personal ability (or inclination) to draw together aspects of experience in a psychological manner (i.e., psychological mindedness)

It might also be important to consider avoidant attachment tendencies in relation to formulation skills

The sample was relatively small and drawn from a limited number of services, which might reduce the generalizability of the findings

Psychological mindedness might not be captured adequately by self‐report tools and services may wish to employ more novel ways of assessing this important skill in staff groups (such as the speech sample used in the current study)
Leaf proteome rebalancing in Nicotiana benthamiana for upstream enrichment of a transiently expressed recombinant protein
Authors: Robert Stéphanie , Goulet Marie‐Claire , D'Aoust Marc‐André , Sainsbury Frank , Michaud Dominique
Published: August 2015

A key factor influencing the yield of biopharmaceuticals in plants is the ratio of recombinant to host proteins in crude extracts. Postextraction procedures have been devised to enrich recombinant proteins before purification. Here, we assessed the potential of methyl jasmonate (MeJA) as a generic trigger of recombinant protein enrichment in Nicotiana benthamiana leaves before harvesting. Previous studies have reported a significant rebalancing of the leaf proteome via the jasmonate signalling pathway, associated with ribulose 1,5‐bisphosphate carboxylase oxygenase (RuBisCO) depletion and the up‐regulation of stress‐related proteins. As expected, leaf proteome alterations were observed 7 days post‐MeJA treatment, associated with lowered RuBisCO pools and the induction of stress‐inducible proteins such as protease inhibitors, thionins and chitinases. Leaf infiltration with the Agrobacterium tumefaciens bacterial vector 24 h post‐MeJA treatment induced a strong accumulation of pathogenesis‐related proteins after 6 days, along with a near‐complete reversal of MeJA‐mediated stress protein up‐regulation. RuBisCO pools were partly restored upon infiltration, but most of the depletion effect observed in noninfiltrated plants was maintained over six more days, to give crude protein samples with 50% less RuBisCO than untreated tissue. These changes were associated with net levels reaching 425 μg/g leaf tissue for the blood‐typing monoclonal antibody C5‐1 expressed in MeJA‐treated leaves, compared to less than 200 μg/g in untreated leaves. Our data confirm overall the ability of MeJA to trigger RuBisCO depletion and recombinant protein enrichment in N. benthamiana leaves, estimated here for C5‐1 at more than 2‐fold relative to host proteins.
Understanding and utilizing crop genome diversity via high‐resolution genotyping
Authors: Voss‐Fels Kai , Snowdon Rod J.
Published: August 2015

High‐resolution genome analysis technologies provide an unprecedented level of insight into structural diversity across crop genomes. Low‐cost discovery of sequence variation has become accessible for all crops since the development of next‐generation DNA sequencing technologies, using diverse methods ranging from genome‐scale resequencing or skim sequencing, reduced‐representation genotyping‐by‐sequencing, transcriptome sequencing or sequence capture approaches. High‐density, high‐throughput genotyping arrays generated using the resulting sequence data are today available for the assessment of genomewide single nucleotide polymorphisms in all major crop species. Besides their application in genetic mapping or genomewide association studies for dissection of complex agronomic traits, high‐density genotyping arrays are highly suitable for genomic selection strategies. They also enable description of crop diversity at an unprecedented chromosome‐scale resolution. Application of population genetics parameters to genomewide diversity data sets enables dissection of linkage disequilibrium to characterize loci underlying selective sweeps. High‐throughput genotyping platforms simultaneously open the way for targeted diversity enrichment, allowing rejuvenation of low‐diversity chromosome regions in strongly selected breeding pools to potentially reverse the influence of linkage drag. Numerous recent examples are presented which demonstrate the power of next‐generation genomics for high‐resolution analysis of crop diversity on a subgenomic and chromosomal scale. Such studies give deep insight into the history of crop evolution and selection, while simultaneously identifying novel diversity to improve yield and heterosis.
Deriving C4 photosynthetic parameters from combined gas exchange and chlorophyll fluorescence using an Excel tool: theory and practice
Authors: Bellasio Chandra , Beerling David J , Griffiths Howard
Published: August 2015

The higher photosynthetic potential of C4 plants has led to extensive research over the past 50 years, including C4‐dominated natural biomes, crops such as maize, or for evaluating the transfer of C4 traits into C3 lineages. Photosynthetic gas exchange can be measured in air or in a 2% Oxygen mixture using readily available commercial gas exchange and modulated PSII fluorescence systems. Interpretation of these data, however, requires an understanding (or the development) of various modelling approaches, which limit the use by non‐specialists. In this paper we present an accessible summary of the theory behind the analysis and derivation of C4 photosynthetic parameters, and provide a freely available Excel Fitting Tool (EFT), making rigorous C4 data analysis accessible to a broader audience. Outputs include those defining C4 photochemical and biochemical efficiency, the rate of photorespiration, bundle sheath conductance to CO2 diffusion and the in vivo biochemical constants for PEP carboxylase. The EFT compares several methodological variants proposed by different investigators, allowing users to choose the level of complexity required to interpret data. We provide a complete analysis of gas exchange data on maize (as a model C4 organism and key global crop) to illustrate the approaches, their analysis and interpretation. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd
Adenovirus necrotizing hepatitis complicating atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor
Authors: McKillop Sarah J. , Belletrutti Mark J. , Lee Bonita E. , Yap Jason Y. , Noga Michelle L. , Desai Sunil J. , Sergi Consolato
Published: August 2015

Adenovirus‐induced fulminant hepatitis is rare. It has been reported in children with primary immunodeficiency, following transplantation or while receiving chemotherapy for hematological malignancy. We present the case of an infant recovering from chemotherapy for atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor (ATRT) in whom a diagnosis of hepatic necrosis due to adenovirus was made.
Magnesium oxide nanoparticles induce systemic resistance in tomato against bacterial wilt disease
Authors: Imada K. , Sakai S. , Kajihara H. , Tanaka S. , Ito S.
Published: August 2015

Bacterial wilt is a serious problem affecting many important food crops. Recent studies have indicated that treatment with biotic or abiotic stress factors may increase the resistance of plants to bacterial infection. This study investigated the effects of magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgO NP) on disease resistance in tomato plants against Ralstonia solanacearum, as well as its antibacterial activity. The roots of tomato seedlings were inoculated with R. solanacearum and then immediately treated with MgO NP; the treated plants showed very little inhibition of bacterial wilt. In contrast, when roots were drenched with a MgO NP suspension prior to inoculation with the pathogen, the incidence of disease was significantly reduced. Rapid generation of reactive oxygen species such as O2−˙ radicals was observed in tomato roots treated with MgO NP. Further O2−˙ was rapidly generated when tomato plant extracts or polyphenols were added to the MgO NP suspension, suggesting that the generation of O2−˙ in tomato roots might be due to a reaction between MgO NP and polyphenols present in the roots. Salicylic acid‐inducible PR1, jasmonic acid‐inducible LoxA, ethylene‐inducible Osm, and systemic resistance‐related GluA were up‐regulated in both the roots and hypocotyls of tomato plants after treatment of the plant roots with MgO NP. Histochemical analyses showed that β‐1,3‐glucanase and tyloses accumulated in the xylem and apoplast of pith tissues of the hypocotyls after MgO NP treatment. These results indicate that MgO NP induces systemic resistance in tomato plants against R. solanacearum.
Sclerostin, Osteocytes, and Chronic Kidney Disease – Mineral Bone Disorder
Authors: Moysés Rosa M. A. , Schiavi Susan C.
Published: August 2015

Osteocytes respond to kidney damage by increasing production of secreted factors important to bone and mineral metabolism. These circulating proteins include the antianabolic factor, sclerostin, and the phosphaturic hormone, fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23). Elevated sclerostin levels correlate with increased FGF23, localized reduction in Wnt/β‐catenin signaling in the skeleton and reduced osteoblast differentiation/activity. Decreased Wnt/β‐catenin signaling occurs regardless of the overall changes in bone formation rates, suggesting that a reduction in the anabolic response may be a common feature of renal bone disorders but additional mechanisms may contribute to the diversity of osteodystrophy phenotypes. Recent preclinical studies support this hypothesis, as treatment with antisclerostin antibodies improved bone quality in the context of low but not high turnover renal osteodystrophy. Sclerostin also appears in the circulation suggesting additional roles outside the skeleton in normal and disease states. In patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), serum levels are elevated several fold relative to healthy individuals. Emerging data suggest that these changes are associated with increased fracture rates but the relationship between sclerostin and cardiovascular disease is unclear. Additional epidemiologic studies that examine stage specific and patient sub‐populations are needed to assess whether sclerostin elevations influence comorbidities associated with CKD.
The Risk of Cyanobacterial Toxins in Dialysate: What Do We Know?
Authors: Hilborn Elizabeth D. , Ward Richard A.
Published: August 2015

Surface waters are increasingly contaminated by cyanobacteria, which may produce potent cyanotoxins harmful to animals and humans. Hemodialysis patients are at high risk of injury from waterborne contaminants in the water used to prepare dialysate. Episodes of acute illness and death among hemodialysis patients have been reported following exposure to dialysate prepared from drinking water contaminated with elevated concentrations of cyanotoxins. Protecting dialysis patients from these toxins is complicated by a lack of monitoring and regulation of cyanotoxins in drinking water, uncertainty as to their safe levels in dialysate, and incomplete knowledge of how well current dialysate preparation and water treatment practices remove them. Until these issues are adequately addressed, hemodialysis centers should be aware of the potential for cyanotoxins to be present in their potable water supply, particularly when it comes from surface water sources prone to cyanobacterial blooms.
Everyday Nationalism: Constructivism for the Masses*
Authors: Goode J. Paul , Stroup David R.
Published: August 2015

Objective

We argue that the “everyday nationalism” approach is both useful and necessary for improving existing constructivist approaches in the comparative study of nationalism and ethnic politics.

Methods

A meta‐analysis of existing studies reveals pervasive conceptual and methodological problems of contemporary constructivist approaches. We consider the implications of replacing individuals or groups with ethnic or nationalist practices as units of analysis.

Results

Everyday nationalism promises to address the gap between constructivist theory and the methodological individualism of existing studies. This approach proceeds from ethnographic observation and utilizes methods reliant on observing societal interaction or relational meaning making for verification. We illustrate such a research strategy using examples of nationalist legitimation in authoritarian regimes and the ethnicization of economic development.

Conclusion

The everyday nationalism approach promises to overcome the shortcomings in much contemporary constructivist work. The potential for developing qualitative data sets of nationalist or ethnic practices further promises to complement constructivist insights.
The Empire Strikes Back: Ethnicity, Terrain, and Indiscriminate Violence in Counterinsurgencies*
Authors: Siroky David , Dzutsati Valery
Published: August 2015

Objective

The literature on indiscriminate violence has emphasized how information shapes state capacity and determines whether and where the government employs collective targeting. This article investigates the conditions that influence the government's ability to obtain intelligence in counterinsurgencies. Specifically, it suggests that the government is more likely to use indiscriminate violence in areas characterized by indigenous ethnic homogeneity and forested terrain. These features increase the cost of acquiring information about the insurgents, and reduce state capacity, thereby increasing the likelihood of indiscriminate violence.

Method

We examine district‐level data on the Russian government's use of indiscriminate violence and disaggregated data on ethnicity and terrain across the North Caucasus from 2000 to 2011.

Results

The results indicate that ethnically homogeneous and forested areas are significantly more likely targets of indiscriminate violence, and that the effect of ethnicity is markedly stronger when the district is densely forested.

Conclusion

This finding expands on previous studies by testing the observable implications of theories linking information to indiscriminate violence, and by providing new micro‐level evidence for important human and physical constraints on counterinsurgencies.
What Does it Mean to Be a Kin Majority? Analyzing Romanian Identity in Moldova and Russian Identity in Crimea from Below
Authors: Knott Eleanor
Published: August 2015

Objective

This article investigates what kin identification means from a bottom‐up perspective in two kin majority cases: Moldova and Crimea.

Methods

The article is based on ∼50 fieldwork interviews conducted in both Moldova and Crimea with everyday social actors (2012–2013).

Results

Ethnic homogeneity for kin majorities is more fractured that previously considered. Respondents identified more in terms of assemblages of ethnic, cultural, political, linguistic, and territorial identities than in mutually exclusive census categories.

Conclusions

To understand fully the relations between kin majorities, their kin‐state and home‐state and the impact of growing kin engagement policies, like dual citizenship, it is necessary to analyze the complexities of the lived experience of kin identification for members of kin majorities and how this relates to kin‐state identification and affiliation. Understanding these complexities helps to have a more nuanced understanding of the role of ethnicity in post‐Communist societies, in terms of kin‐state and intrastate relations.
Seroprevalence of Leishmania infection among asymptomatic renal transplant recipients from southern Spain
Authors: Elmahallawy E.K. , Cuadros‐Moronta E. , Liébana‐Martos M.C. , Rodríguez‐Granger J.M. , Sampedro‐Martínez A. , Agil A. , Navarro‐Mari J.M. , Bravo‐Soto J. , Gutierrez‐Fernández J.
Published: August 2015

Background

The aim of this article is to assess the seroprevalence of Leishmania infection among asymptomatic renal transplant recipients in a population in the south of Spain.

Methods

Serum samples were screened for immunoglobulin‐G antibodies against Leishmania with an indirect fluorescent antibody test.

Results

Of 625 examined serum samples, 30 (4.8%) samples were positive for Leishmania antibodies. Thirteen samples showed titers of 1:80, 15 samples showed titers of 1:160, and 2 samples showed titers of 1:320. None of the patients with positive serology to Leishmania showed signs or symptoms compatible with leishmaniasis.

Conclusion

The prevalence of Leishmania infection found among asymptomatic renal transplant patients reinforces the need for attention in evaluation of these patients in endemic areas.
microRNA160 dictates stage‐specific auxin and cytokinin sensitivities and directs soybean nodule development
Authors: Nizampatnam Narasimha Rao , Schreier Spencer John , Damodaran Suresh , Adhikari Sajag , Subramanian Senthil
Published: August 2015

Legume nodules result from coordinated interactions between the plant and nitrogen‐fixing rhizobia. The phytohormone cytokinin promotes nodule formation, and recent findings suggest that the phytohormone auxin inhibits nodule formation. Here we show that microRNA160 (miR160) is a key signaling element that determines the auxin/cytokinin balance during nodule development in soybean (Glycine max). miR160 appears to promote auxin activity by suppressing the levels of the ARF10/16/17 family of repressor ARF transcription factors. Using quantitative PCR assays and a fluorescence miRNA sensor, we show that miR160 levels are relatively low early during nodule formation and high in mature nodules. We had previously shown that ectopic expression of miR160 in soybean roots led to a severe reduction in nodule formation, coupled with enhanced sensitivity to auxin and reduced sensitivity to cytokinin. Here we show that exogenous cytokinin restores nodule formation in miR160 over‐expressing roots. Therefore, low miR160 levels early during nodule development favor cytokinin activity required for nodule formation. Suppression of miR160 levels using a short tandem target mimic (STTM160) resulted in reduced sensitivity to auxin and enhanced sensitivity to cytokinin. In contrast to miR160 over‐expressing roots, STTM160 roots had increased nodule formation, but nodule maturation was significantly delayed. Exogenous auxin partially restored proper nodule formation and maturation in STTM160 roots, suggesting that high miR160 activity later during nodule development favors auxin activity and promotes nodule maturation. Therefore, miR160 dictates developmental stage‐specific sensitivities to auxin and cytokinin to direct proper nodule formation and maturation in soybean.
Correlation of serum cardiac troponin I and acute phase protein concentrations with clinical staging in dogs with degenerative mitral valve disease
Authors: Polizopoulou Zoe S. , Koutinas Christos K. , Cerón José J. , Tvarijonaviciute Asta , Martínez‐Subiela Silvia , Dasopoulou Anastasia , York Malcolm J. , Roman Ian F. , Gandhi Mitul , Patel Sonal , O'Brien Peter J.
Published: August 2015

Background

Cardiac troponin I (cTnI) correlates with severity of myocardial injury. Nonspecific inflammation in congestive heart failure (CHF) could be assessed by C‐reactive protein (CRP), haptoglobin (Hp), and ceruloplasmin (Cp) measurements.

Objectives

The aim of the study was to determine whether serum cTnI, CRP, Hp, and Cp concentrations differ among various stages of mitral valve disease (MVD) in dogs.

Materials and methods

Dogs with MVD were allocated to 3 groups (I – asymptomatic; II – mild to moderate CHF; III advanced CHF) according to the scheme of the International Small Animal Cardiac Healthy Council (ISACHC). Concentrations of cTnI, CRP, Cp, and Hp were measured in all dogs upon admission, and cTnI and CRP were measured bimonthly during a 4‐month follow‐up period.

Results

In total 46 dogs with MVD were enrolled for the cross‐sectional part (21 Group I, 11 Group II, 14 Group III), and 35 dogs were included in the longitudinal study. Initial mean Cp concentrations were similar among all groups. There was a statistically significant difference in Hp and CRP concentrations between group I (n = 21, P = .019) and III (n = 14, P < .001). There was a statistically significant decrease in CRP (P = .033) and cTnI (P = .009) concentrations over the longitudinal study (all groups). CRP concentrations were significantly higher in group I than III (P = .004). During the 6‐month monitoring period of 35 dogs, there was a statistically significant positive correlation between cTnI and CRP (P < .001).

Conclusion

Differences in CRP concentrations between clinical stages of MVD suggest a clinically and therapeutically relevant inflammatory component.
Determining canine skin concentrations of terbinafine to guide the treatment of Malassezia dermatitis
Authors: Gimmler Jacqueline R. , White Amelia G. , Kennis Robert A. , Cruz‐Espindola Crisanta , Boothe Dawn M.
Published: August 2015

Background

Terbinafine (TBF) is known to concentrate and persist in human skin. Its use is increasing in veterinary medicine, but there are limited data concerning its tissue concentration and efficacy in dogs.

Hypothesis/Objectives

(i) Describe TBF accumulation in canine skin; (ii) Integrate pharmacokinetic data with historical minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) results for Malassezia pachydermatis to verify the currently used dosage of TBF for the treatment of Malassezia dermatitis.

Animals

Ten healthy, client‐owned dogs.

Methods

Dogs were given TBF (generic preparation, 250 mg tablets) 30 mg/kg per os (p.o.) once daily for 21 days. Serum, sebum and stratum corneum (SC) samples were collected on days 1, 5, 7, 11, 14, 21, 28 and 35. High‐pressure liquid chromatography was used to determine drug concentrations in samples.

Results

Relevant (mean ± standard deviation) parameters for TBF in serum, paw SC, thorax SC and sebum, respectively, were: maximum concentration (Cmax, μg/mL) 23.59 ± 10.41, 0.31 ± 0.26, 0.30 ± 0.32 and 0.48 ± 0.25; half‐life (t1/2, d) 4.49 ± 2.24, 6.34 ± 5.33, 4.64 ± 3.27 and 5.12 ± 3.33; time to maximum concentration (Tmax, d) 10.40 ± 6.98, 13.20 ± 5.16, 11.90 ± 8.62 and 10.60 ± 3.69.

Conclusions and clinical importance

These results suggest that TBF does not achieve high concentrations in canine SC or sebum compared to serum. The mean Cmax of all skin tissues (paw SC, thorax SC and sebum) barely exceeded the reported Malassezia MIC90, of 0.25 μg/mL, which indicates that doses higher than 30 mg/kg p.o. once daily may be necessary.
On exact -categories and the Theorem of the Heart
Authors: Barwick Clark
Published: August 2015

The new homotopy theory of exact$\infty$-categories is introduced and employed to prove a Theorem of the Heart for algebraic $K$-theory (in the sense of Waldhausen). This implies a new compatibility between Waldhausen $K$-theory and Neeman $K$-theory. Additionally, it provides a new proof of the Dévissage and Localization theorems of Blumberg–Mandell, new models for the $G$-theory of schemes, and a proof of the invariance of $G$-theory under derived nil-thickenings.
Effect of Pile–Soil Interaction on Structural Dynamics of Large Moment Magnitude-Scale Offshore Wind Turbines in Shallow-Water Western Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Yin Ling Ling , Lo King Him , Wang Su Su
Published: August 2015

The effect of pile–soil interaction on structural dynamics is investigated for a large offshore wind turbine (OWT) in the hurricane-prone Western Gulf of Mexico (GOM) shallow water. The OWT has a rotor with three 100-meter blades and a monotower structure. Loads on the turbine rotor and the support structure subject to a 100-year return hurricane are determined. Several types of soil are considered and modeled with a distributed spring system. The results reveal that pile–soil interaction affects dynamics of the turbine support structure significantly, but not the rotor dynamics. Designed with proper pile lengths, natural frequencies of the turbine structure in different soils stay outside dominant frequencies of wave energy spectra in both normal operating and hurricane sea states, but stay between blade passing frequency intervals. Hence, potential resonance of the turbine support structure is not of concern. A comprehensive Campbell diagram is constructed for safe operation of the offshore turbine in different soils.