bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Independent regulation of vertebral number and vertebral identity by microRNA-196 paralogs
Authors: Wong Siew Fen Lisa , Agarwal Vikram , Mansfield Jennifer H. , Denans Nicolas , Schwartz Matthew G. , Prosser Haydn M. , Pourquié Olivier , Bartel David P. , Tabin Clifford J. , McGlinn Edwina
Published: August 2015

Significance

The vertebral column provides essential structural and protective functions. The total number of vertebral elements and their specific morphologies are remarkably reproducible within a given species, yet can be tailored to the requirements of separate vertebrate species. Major genetic determinants driving formation of the vertebral column are known, but how they are regulated to achieve a highly reproducible structure remains to be fully elucidated. In this report, we show that the miR-196 family of microRNAs are essential in defining correct vertebral number and vertebral identity in mouse. We reveal the molecular landscape controlled, either directly or indirectly, by miR-196 activity, to demonstrate that miR-196 impacts many key developmental signalling pathways and reinforces a timely trunk-to-tail
Hox
code transition.
Structure of BipA in GTP form bound to the ratcheted ribosome
Authors: Kumar Veerendra , Chen Yun , Ero Rya , Ahmed Tofayel , Tan Jackie , Li Zhe , Wong Andrew See Weng , Bhushan Shashi , Gao Yong-Gui
Published: August 2015

Significance

The regulation of protein synthesis is a vital process in all cells. We have determined the structure of the BPI-inducible protein A (BipA), a GTPase involved in bacterial stress response, in various biologically relevant states, including bound to the ribosome in its active form. Our study provides the first structural basis to our knowedge for BipA working as a ribosome-dependent translational GTPase factor and serves as a crucial step for elucidating BipA functioning in vivo. Because no other stress response factor is known to interact with the A-site tRNA, our findings provide a novel mechanistic insight of translational regulation by BipA. Furthermore, the distinctive structural attributes of ribosome upon BipA binding can shed new light on the translational factor recruitment and GTPase activation mechanisms by the ribosome.
Electrochemically addressable trisradical rotaxanes organized within a metal–organic framework
Authors: McGonigal Paul R. , Deria Pravas , Hod Idan , Moghadam Peyman Z. , Avestro Alyssa-Jennifer , Horwitz Noah E. , Gibbs-Hall Ian C. , Blackburn Anthea K. , Chen Dongyang , Botros Youssry Y. , Wasielewski Michael R. , Snurr Randall Q. , Hupp Joseph T. , Farha Omar K. , Stoddart J. Fraser
Published: August 2015

Significance

This research paper presents a strategy for the organization of artificial molecular switches based on mechanically interlocked molecules within a porous crystalline framework. Once arranged within the pores of the framework, the electronic state of the switches can be altered by the application of an electrochemical potential. This strategy is particularly useful when it comes to integrating dynamic, stimulus-responsive, mechanically interlocked molecules with the robustness and periodicity of porous solids. The findings of the research establish proof-of-concept for the application of postsynthetic transformations of porous crystalline frameworks in the creation of solid-state molecular switches and machines.
Phospholipase D2 drives mortality in sepsis by inhibiting neutrophil extracellular trap formation and down-regulating CXCR2
Authors: Lee Sung Kyun , Kim Sang Doo , Kook Minsoo , Lee Ha Young , Ghim Jaewang , Choi Youngwoo , Zabel Brian A. , Ryu Sung Ho , Bae Yoe-Sik
Published: August 2015

We determined the function of phospholipase D2 (PLD2) in host defense in highly lethal mouse models of sepsis using PLD2−/− mice and a PLD2-specific inhibitor. PLD2 deficiency not only increases survival but also decreases vital organ damage during experimental sepsis. Production of several inflammatory cytokines (TNF, IL-1β, IL-17, and IL-23) and the chemokine CXCL1, as well as cellular apoptosis in immune tissues, kidney, and liver, are markedly decreased in PLD2−/− mice. Bactericidal activity is significantly increased in PLD2−/− mice, which is mediated by increased neutrophil extracellular trap formation and citrullination of histone 3 through peptidylarginine deiminase activation. Recruitment of neutrophils to the lung is markedly increased in PLD2−/− mice. Furthermore, LPS-induced induction of G protein–coupled receptor kinase 2 (GRK2) and down-regulation of CXCR2 are markedly attenuated in PLD2−/− mice. A CXCR2-selective antagonist abolishes the protection conferred by PLD2 deficiency during experimental sepsis, suggesting that enhanced CXCR2 expression, likely driven by GRK2 down-regulation in neutrophils, promotes survival in PLD2−/− mice. Furthermore, adoptively transferred PLD2−/− neutrophils significantly protect WT recipients against sepsis-induced death compared with transferred WT neutrophils. We suggest that PLD2 in neutrophils is essential for the pathogenesis of experimental sepsis and that pharmaceutical agents that target PLD2 may prove beneficial for septic patients.
Constitutive and ghrelin-dependent GHSR1a activation impairs CaV2.1 and CaV2.2 currents in hypothalamic neurons
Authors: López Soto Eduardo Javier , Agosti Francina , Cabral Agustina , Mustafa Emilio Roman , Damonte Valentina Martínez , Gandini Maria Alejandra , Rodríguez Silvia , Castrogiovanni Daniel , Felix Ricardo , Perelló Mario , Raingo Jesica
Published: August 2015

The growth hormone secretagogue receptor type 1a (GHSR1a) has the highest known constitutive activity of any G protein–coupled receptor (GPCR). GHSR1a mediates the action of the hormone ghrelin, and its activation increases transcriptional and electrical activity in hypothalamic neurons. Although GHSR1a is present at GABAergic presynaptic terminals, its effect on neurotransmitter release remains unclear. The activities of the voltage-gated calcium channels, CaV2.1 and CaV2.2, which mediate neurotransmitter release at presynaptic terminals, are modulated by many GPCRs. Here, we show that both constitutive and agonist-dependent GHSR1a activity elicit a strong impairment of CaV2.1 and CaV2.2 currents in rat and mouse hypothalamic neurons and in a heterologous expression system. Constitutive GHSR1a activity reduces CaV2 currents by a Gi/o-dependent mechanism that involves persistent reduction in channel density at the plasma membrane, whereas ghrelin-dependent GHSR1a inhibition is reversible and involves altered CaV2 gating via a Gq-dependent pathway. Thus, GHSR1a differentially inhibits CaV2 channels by Gi/o or Gq protein pathways depending on its mode of activation. Moreover, we present evidence suggesting that GHSR1a-mediated inhibition of CaV2 attenuates GABA release in hypothalamic neurons, a mechanism that could contribute to neuronal activation through the disinhibition of postsynaptic neurons.
A fish-eye view on the new Arctic lightscape
Authors: Varpe Øystein , Daase Malin , Kristiansen Trond
Published: August 2015

A gigantic light experiment is taking place in the Arctic. Climate change has led to substantial reductions in sea ice extent and thickness in the Arctic Ocean. Sea ice, particularly when snow covered, acts as a lid hindering light to reach the waters underneath. Less ice will therefore mean more light entering the water column, with profound effects on pelagic and benthic ecosystems. Responses through primary production are so far well acknowledged. Here we argue that there is a need to broaden the view to include light-driven effects on fish, as they depend on light to locate prey. We used the Norwegian Earth System Model estimates of past and future sea ice area and thickness in the Arctic and applied attenuation coefficients for ice and snow to estimate light intensity. The results show a dramatic increase in the amount of light predicted to reach the future Arctic Ocean. We combined this insight with mechanistic understanding of how light modulates visual prey-detection and predict that fish will forage more efficiently as sea ice diminishes and that their populations will expand to higher latitudes, at least seasonally. Poleward shifts of boreal fish species have been predicted by many and to some extent observed, but a changing light environment has so far not been considered a driver. Expanding distributions and greater visual predation may restructure ecological relationships throughout the Arctic foodweb and lead to regime shifts. Research efforts should focus on the dynamics of how less sea ice will affect the feeding ecology and habitat usage of fish, particularly the northern limits of distributions. Mechanistic approaches to these topics offer insights beyond statistical correlations and extrapolations, and will help us understand how changing biophysical dynamics in the Arctic influence complex processes including production, predator–prey interactions, trait-evolution, and fisheries.
AGN flickering and chaotic accretion
Authors: King Andrew , Nixon Chris
Published: August 2015

Observational arguments suggest that the growth phases of the supermassive black holes in active galactic nuclei have a characteristic time-scale ∼105 yr. We show that this is the time-scale expected in the chaotic accretion picture of black hole feeding, because of the effect of self-gravity in limiting the mass of any accretion-disc feeding event.
Genome-Wide Association of Rice Blast Disease Resistance and Yield-Related Components of Rice
Authors: Wang Xueyan , Jia Melissa H. , Ghai Pooja , Lee Fleet N. , Jia Yulin
Published: August 2015

Robust disease resistance may require an expenditure of energy that may limit crop yield potential. In the present study, a subset of a United States Department of Agriculture rice core collection consisting of 151 accessions was selected using a major blast resistance (R) gene, Pi-ta, marker and was genotyped with 156 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. Disease reactions to Magnaporthe oryzae, the causal agent of rice blast disease, were evaluated under greenhouse and field conditions, and heading date, plant height, paddy and brown seed weight in two field environments were analyzed, using an association mapping approach. A total of 21 SSR markers distributed among rice chromosomes 2 to 12 were associated with blast resistance, and 16 SSR markers were associated with seed weight, heading date, and plant height. Most noticeably, shorter plants were significantly correlated with resistance to blast, rice genomes with Pi-ta were associated with lighter seed weights, and the susceptible alleles of RM171 and RM6544 were associated with heavier seed weight. These findings unraveled a complex relationship between disease resistance and yield-related components.
Intubation Biomechanics
Authors: Hindman Bradley J. , From Robert P. , Fontes Ricardo B. , Traynelis Vincent C. , Todd Michael M. , Zimmerman M. Bridget , Puttlitz Christian M. , Santoni Brandon G.
Published: August 2015

AbstractAbstract

Biomechanics during laryngoscopy revealed similarity of laryngoscope forces and cervical spine motion between humans and cadavers. Repeated intubation procedures changed biomechanics during laryngoscopy in cadavers. In cadavers with a type II odontoid fracture, cervical motion during intubation with either the Macintosh or the Airtraq (Airtraq LLC, USA) did not greatly exceed the range observed in intact cervical spines during the same procedures.

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.

Background

The aims of this study are to characterize (1) the cadaver intubation biomechanics, including the effect of repeated intubations, and (2) the relation between intubation force and the motion of an injured cervical segment.

Methods

Fourteen cadavers were serially intubated using force-sensing Macintosh and Airtraq laryngoscopes in random order, with simultaneous cervical spine motion recorded with lateral fluoroscopy. Motion of the C1-C2 segment was measured in the intact and injured state (type II odontoid fracture). Injured C1-C2 motion was proportionately corrected for changes in intubation forces that occurred with repeated intubations.

Results

Cadaver intubation biomechanics were comparable with those of patients in all parameters other than C2-C5 extension. In cadavers, intubation force (set 2/set 1 force ratio = 0.61; 95% CI, 0.46 to 0.81; P = 0.002) and Oc-C5 extension (set 2 − set 1 difference = −6.1 degrees; 95% CI, −11.4 to −0.9; P = 0.025) decreased with repeated intubations. In cadavers, C1-C2 extension did not differ (1) between intact and injured states; or (2) in the injured state, between laryngoscopes (with and without force correction). With force correction, in the injured state, C1-C2 subluxation was greater with the Airtraq (mean difference 2.8 mm; 95% CI, 0.7 to 4.9 mm; P = 0.004).

Conclusions

With limitations, cadavers may be clinically relevant models of intubation biomechanics and cervical spine motion. In the setting of a type II odontoid fracture, C1-C2 motion during intubation with either the Macintosh or the Airtraq does not appear to greatly exceed physiologic values or to have a high likelihood of hyperextension or direct cord compression.
Rhodococcus antrifimi sp. nov., isolated from dried bat dung of a cave
Authors: Ko Kwan Su , Kim Youngju , Seong Chi Nam , Lee Soon Dong
Published: August 2015

A Gram-reaction-positive, high DNA G+C content, non-motile actinobacterium, strain D7-21T, was isolated from dried bat dung inside a natural cave and its taxonomic status was examined by using a polyphasic approach. The 16S rRNA gene sequence study showed that the isolate belonged to the genusRhodococcusand formed a cluster withRhodococcus defluvii(98.98 % gene similarity),Rhodococcus equi(98.62 %) andRhodococcus kunmingensis(97.66 %). Whole-cell hydrolysates containedmeso-diaminopimelic acid, arabinose and galactose as the diagnostic diamino acid and sugars. MK-8(H2) was the predominant menaquinone. The major polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylinositol mannoside, an unknown phosphoglycolipid and an unknown glycolipid. Mycolic acids were present. The major fatty acids were C16 : 0, C18 : 1ω9cand 10-methyl C18 : 0. The DNA G+C content was 70.1 mol%. A battery of phenotypic features and DNA–DNA relatedness data support that strain D7-21T( = KCTC 29469T= DSM 46727T) represents a novel species of the genusRhodococcus, for whichRhodococcus antrifimisp. nov. is proposed.
A genomic region containingRNF212andCPLX1is associated with sexually-dimorphic recombination rate variation in Soay sheep (Ovis aries)
Authors: Johnston Susan E. , Bérénos Camillo , Slate Jon , Pemberton Josephine M.
Published: August 2015

Meiotic recombination breaks down linkage disequilibrium and forms new haplotypes, meaning thatit is an important driver of diversity in eukaryotic genomes. Understanding the causes of variation in recombination rate is important in interpreting and predicting evolutionary phenomena and forunderstanding the potential of a population to respond to selection. However, despite attention inmodel systems, there remains little data on how recombination rate varies at the individual level in natural populations. Here, we used extensive pedigree and high-density SNP information in a wild population of Soay sheep (Ovis aries) to investigate the genetic architecture of individual autosomal recombination rate. Individual rates were high relative to other mammal systems, and were higher in males than in females (autosomal map lengths of 3748 cM and 2860 cM, respectively). The heritability of autosomal recombination rate was low but significant in both sexes(h2= 0.16 & 0.12 in females and males, respectively). In females, 46.7% of the heritable variation was explained by a sub-telomeric region on chromosome 6; a genome-wide association study showed the strongest associations at the locusRNF212, with further associations observed at a nearby ~374kb region of complete linkage disequilibrium containing three additional candidate loci,CPLX1,GAKandPCGF3. A second region on chromosome 7 containingREC8andRNF212Bexplained 26.2% of the heritable variation in recombination rate in both sexes. Comparative analyses with 40 other sheep breeds showed that haplotypes associated with recombination rates are both old and globally distributed. Both regions have been implicated in rate variation in mice, cattle and humans, suggesting a common genetic architecture of recombination rate variation in mammals.

AUTHOR SUMMARY

Recombination offers an escape from genetic linkage by forming new combinations of alleles, increasing the potential for populations to respond to selection. Understanding the causes and consequences of individual recombination rates are important in studies of evolution and genetic improvement, yet little is known on how rates vary in natural systems. Using data from a wild population of Soay sheep, we show that individual recombination rate is heritable and differs between the sexes, with the majority of genetic variation in females explained by a genomic region containing thegenesRNF212andCPLX1.
Activities of daily life recognition using process representation modelling to support intention analysis
Authors: Naeem Usman , Bashroush Rabih , Anthony Richard , Azam Muhammad Awais , Tawil Abdel Rahman , Lee Sin Wee , Wong M.L. Dennis
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– This paper aims to focus on applying a range of traditional classification- and semantic reasoning-based techniques to recognise activities of daily life (ADLs). ADL recognition plays an important role in tracking functional decline among elderly people who suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. Accurate recognition enables smart environments to support and assist the elderly to lead an independent life for as long as possible. However, the ability to represent the complex structure of an ADL in a flexible manner remains a challenge.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper presents an ADL recognition approach, which uses a hierarchical structure for the representation and modelling of the activities, its associated tasks and their relationships. This study describes an approach in constructing ADLs based on a task-specific and intention-oriented plan representation language called Asbru. The proposed method is particularly flexible and adaptable for caregivers to be able to model daily schedules for Alzheimer’s patients.

Findings

– A proof of concept prototype evaluation has been conducted for the validation of the proposed ADL recognition engine, which has comparable recognition results with existing ADL recognition approaches.

Originality/value

– The work presented in this paper is novel, as the developed ADL recognition approach takes into account all relationships and dependencies within the modelled ADLs. This is very useful when conducting activity recognition with very limited features.
When allegedly corrupt organizations are attractive
Authors: Rabl Tanja
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– Based on social identity theory, the purpose of this paper is to explore how detrimental allegations of corruption are to potential applicants’ organizational attraction and how potential harm can be absorbed by choosing an appropriate response strategy.

Design/methodology/approach

– Experimental survey data were collected from 239 German employees likely to be in the job market again in their careers.

Findings

– Potential applicants are less attracted to allegedly corrupt organizations. Accepting the allegation and undertaking structural change, appealing to higher organizational goals, and denying the allegation appear to be effective organizational response strategies. A strategy concordant with the one potential applicants would choose if they themselves were confronted with an allegation of corruption fosters attraction.

Research limitations/implications

– The experimental design limits external validity. Future research should investigate whether the findings hold in a field setting where additional information about the organization and the potential job is available.

Practical implications

– The findings demonstrate the need for organizational corruption prevention efforts. If organizations face allegations of corruption, they should carefully consider how to respond, what they signal by the chosen response strategy, and what applicants they are therefore likely to attract.

Social implications

– The observed interactions between organizations and individuals underline the need for societal efforts in creating a societal anti-corruption climate.

Originality/value

– The study highlights the critical role of allegations of corruption, organizational response strategies, and concordance with individual response strategies regarding potential applicants’ organizational attraction.
Collective norms of engagement link to individual engagement
Authors: Griffin Barbara
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to apply a group norm approach to explain how average engagement across an organization is related to an individual’s level of engagement.

Design/methodology/approach

– Survey data were collected from over 46,000 participants from 140 organizations. Multi-level analysis tested the hypotheses that similarity (in terms of shared status) and likely interaction would determine the extent a group’s norms affected individual engagement. Normative data and the dependent variable data were provided by different participants.

Findings

– Results supported the aggregation of individuals’ measure of engagement to form three norms within an organization: an employee norm, a manager norm and a senior leader norm. These engagement norms were significantly related to an individual’s engagement at work beyond the effect of both organizational resources and manager support. Individuals were more strongly influenced by the norm of those in the organization with whom they were most similar and with whom they were likely to interact.

Originality/value

– Provides evidence that engagement exists at the group level and that status groups within the organization have norms that independently affect individual-level engagement.
Age replacement policies for two-component systems with stochastic dependence
Authors: Malki Zouheir , Ait-Kadi Daoud , Ouali Mohamed-Salah
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate age replacement policies for two-component parallel system with stochastic dependence. The stochastic dependence considered, is modeled by a one-sided domino effect. The failure of component 1 at instant t may induce the failure of component 2 at instant t+τ with probability p
1→2. The time delay τ is a random variable with known probability density function h

p
1→2
(.). The system is considered in a failed state when both components are failed. The proposed replacement policies suggest to replace the system upon failure or at age T whichever occurs first.

Design/methodology/approach

– In the first policy, costs and durations associated with maintenance activities are supposed to be constant. In the second replacement policy, the preventive replacement cost depends on the system’s state and age. The expected cost per unit of time over an infinite span is derived and numerical examples are presented.

Findings

– In this paper and especially in the second policy, the authors find that the authors can get a more economical policy if the authors consider that the preventive replacement cost is not constant but depends on T.

Originality/value

– In this paper, the authors take into account of the stochastic dependence between system components. This dependence affects the global reliability of the system and replacement’s periodicity. It can be used to measure the performance of the system et introduced into design phase of the system.
Improving quality of maintenance through Simplified Technical English
Authors: Knezevic Jezdimir
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to address the maintenance errors caused by the lack of understanding of maintenance manuals. English is the official language of civil aviation and all relevant maintenance manuals are written in it, but – for 80 per cent of the global maintenance personnel who are using such manuals – English is not their native language. The majority of these users have knowledge of English that is rather limited and they are easily confused by complex sentences and by the number of meanings and synonyms that English words may have.

Design/methodology/approach

– Scientific analysis of the faulty maintenance tasks to determine the impact of the inability of maintenance personnel to correctly understand maintenance manual written in English.

Findings

– Analysis of the maintenance processes clearly shows that ineffective communication between system designers and maintenance personnel, through maintenance documentation, is a well-recognised contributor to the occurrence of a faulty maintenance task.

Practical implications

– Significant improvements in the direction of effective communication and improvement in a quality of maintenance could be achieved by applying Simplified Technical English (ASD-STE100), the benefit of which on the quality of maintenance is presented in this paper.

Originality/value

– Unique consideration of the quality of maintenance, which is to see it as a function of the comprehension of maintenance manuals written in English.
Relationship between arsenic‐containing drinking water and skin cancers in the arseniasis endemic areas in Taiwan
Authors: Cheng Pai‐Shan , Weng Shih‐Feng , Chiang Chi‐Hsuan , Lai Feng‐Jie
Published: August 2015

Artesian well‐water had high concentrations of arsenic that led to the well‐known black foot disease in Taiwan around the 1950s, and the associated cancers including skin cancer, bladder cancers and lung cancers. We sought to estimate the standardized morbidity ratio (SMR) and age‐standardized incidence rate (ASIR) of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC) in the black foot disease endemic areas (BFDEA) in Taiwan. A nationwide retrospective population‐based survey was done with the data from the National Taiwan Cancer Registry Center between 1979 and 2007. Among the 29‐year period, there were 11 191 cases with SCC and 13 684 cases with BCC diagnosed pathologically. The incidence rates were 4–6‐fold higher for SCC and 3–4‐fold higher for BCC in the BFDEA compared with the rest of Taiwan. The SMR decreased after stopping arsenic‐containing well‐water drinking in the 1970s. The arsenic level in the drinking water, amount of contaminated water intake, occupation and sun‐exposure time were not documented. This is the first nationwide, population‐based study that shows the relationship between arsenic intoxication and non‐melanoma skin cancers (SCC and BCC) through comparing the data in people living in the BFDEA and non‐BFDEA in Taiwan.
Feed or fight: testing the impact of food availability and intraspecific aggression on the functional ecology of an island lizard
Authors: Donihue Colin M. , Brock Kinsey M. , Foufopoulos Johannes , Herrel Anthony
Published: August 2015

Body size often varies among insular populations relative to continental conspecifics – the ‘island rule’ – and functional, context‐dependent morphological differences tend to track this body size variation on islands.

Two hypotheses are often proposed as potential drivers of insular population differences in morphology: one relating to diet and the other involving intraspecific competition and aggression. We directly tested whether differences in morphology and maximum bite capacity were explained by interisland changes in hardness of both available and consumed prey, and levels of lizard‐to‐lizard aggression among small‐island populations.

Our study included 11 islands in the Greek Cyclades and made use of a gradient in island area spanning five orders of magnitude. We focused on the widespread lizardPodarcis erhardii.

We found that on smaller islands,P. erhardiibody size was larger, head height was larger relative to body size, and maximum bite capacity became proportionally stronger.

This pattern in morphology and performance was not related to differences in diet, but was highly correlated with proxies of intraspecific aggression – bite scars and missing toes.

Our findings suggest that critical functional traits such as body size and bite force inP. erhardiifollow the predictions of the island rule and are changing in response to changes in the competitive landscape across islands of different sizes.
Impact of disease on diversity and productivity of plant populations
Authors: Creissen Henry E. , Jorgensen Tove H. , Brown James K. M.
Published: August 2015

Experiments were conducted on the role of intra‐ and inter‐genotypic competition in ecological processes operating at the population scale in diseased plant populations.

Combinations of Arabidopsis thaliana genotypes showing variation for phenotypic traits relating to competitive ability and pathogen compatibility were infected with the oomycete Hyaloperonospora arabidopsidis and Turnip yellows virus in separate experiments. Plant fitness and competitive ability were estimated from phenotypic measurements.

Pathogen‐induced reduction in competitive ability for susceptible genotypes increased the competitive ability of resistant genotypes, resulting in maintenance of yield via competitive release. The two diseases had different effects on competitive interactions between plants. In experiments involving the oomycete, the highest yields were produced by mixtures of two weakly competing genotypes.

The Arabidopsis model system has elucidated the ecological processes by which compensatory competitive interactions can increase the buffering capacity of plant populations under pathogen attack. Highly competitive genotypes may not maximize the productivity of the population as a whole, as they may over‐yield at the expense of less competitive, more productive genotypes. The specific outcomes of competitive interactions cannot be generalized because they depend on the disease and the host genotypes.
The End of a Romance? A Note on the Quantitative Impacts of a ‘Brexit’ from the EU
Authors: Boulanger Pierre , Philippidis George
Published: August 2015

This study suggests UK equivalent variation (EV) gains of €8.9 billion on withdrawal from the EU budget. Factoring in associated trade facilitation costs from the loss of UK access to the single market, annual UK EV losses could be as high as €14.0 billion, with the EU‐28 facing a corresponding loss of €40.4 billion. Interestingly, the extrapolated UK gain arising from withdrawal from the ‘CAP’ component of the EU budget exceeds estimated lower and upper bound trade facilitation costs exclusively on EU agrofood trade. Accordingly, the UK should realistically remain as an EU member, although continue to lobby for reductions in the CAP budget.
Effect of Head Position on Facial Soft Tissue Depth Measurements Obtained Using Computed Tomography
Authors: Caple Jodi M. , Stephan Carl N. , Gregory Laura S. , MacGregor Donna M.
Published: August 2015

Facial soft tissue depth (FSTD) studies employing clinical computed tomography (CT) data frequently rely on depth measurements from raw 2D orthoslices. However, the position of each patient's head was not standardized in this method, potentially decreasing measurement reliability and accuracy. This study measured FSTDs along the original orthoslice plane and compared these measurements to those standardized by the Frankfurt horizontal (FH). Subadult cranial CT scans (n = 115) were used to measure FSTDs at 18 landmarks. Significant differences were observed between the methods at eight of these landmarks (p < 0.05), demonstrating that high‐quality data are not generated simply by employing modern imaging modalities such as CT. Proper technique is crucial to useful results, and maintaining control over head position during FSTD data collection is important. This is easily and most readily achieved in CT techniques by rotating the head to the FH plane after constructing a 3D rendering of the data.
Assessment of the Role Played by N‐propanol Found in Postmortem Blood in the Discrimination Between Antemortem Consumption and Postmortem Formation of Ethanol Using Rats
Authors: Liang Hao , Kuang Shenyi , Guo Lin , Yu Tianfang , Rao Yulan
Published: August 2015

This study disproves the reliability of n‐propanol as a biomarker to establish whether the ethanol found in postmortem blood is derived from antemortem ingestion or postmortem putrefactive processes. Two groups of rats were given ethanol or normal saline solution, respectively, and sacrificed 1.5 h later. After putrefaction, blood and, in a few cases, urine samples from the rats were analyzed for ethanol and n‐propanol by head‐space gas chromatography equipped with flame ionization detection. Although the concentration ratios of ethanol/n‐propanol in the postmortem blood collected from the bodies without prior alcohol consumption were expected to be <20 (as per limited case reports and previous in vitro studies), in samples from several rats that were on saline solution, this ratio was found to exceed 20. In conclusion, the concentration ratio of ethanol/n‐propanol in postmortem blood does not allow for the discernment between antemortem ingestion and the postmortem synthesis of ethanol.
An exploratory study comparing two electronic portfolio approaches in undergraduate dietetic education
Authors: Porter Judi , Kleve Suzanne , Palermo Claire
Published: August 2015

Aim

The use of electronic portfolios in university learning, including within dietetic education, is increasing. We aimed to implement and evaluate an ePortfolio model as part of a final year undergraduate foodservice management unit. The qualitative evaluation focused on the relationships between different modes of eLearning.

Methods

A randomised parallel model study design was implemented, with the cohort of 52 students allocated to two different ePortfolio approaches. One student group received a blended learning teaching and learning model via the traditional study only Moodle ePortfolio. The second group received the enhanced Mahara ePortfolio through a supported online ePortfolio platform. Focus groups with study groups (Moodle ePortfolio, n = 16 students and Mahara ePorfolio, n = 15 students) were facilitated by an independent researcher. Focus groups were audiotaped and transcribed with data analysed separately and then together. Use of thematic analysis enabled comparisons to be made between the two ePortfolio experiences.

Results

Thematic analysis found broad themes of satisfaction and supporting learning consistently across both ePortfolio models. Satisfaction was related to both achievement and creativity of portfolio production. Subthemes related to supporting learning included: students requiring support with implementation of new technology, and more clearly defined assessment tasks to improve compatibility with the Mahara ePortfolio.

Conclusions

This research has provided key learnings for the incorporation of ePortfolios into foodservice management education, enabling unit content to meet the needs and expectations of students. Foodservice management competencies can be developed and demonstrated within ePortfolios as part of a blended learning approach.
The Process of Macroprudential Oversight in Europe
Authors: Sarlin Peter , Nyman Henrik J.
Published: August 2015

The 2007–2008 financial crisis has paved the way for the use of macroprudential policies in supervising the financial system as a whole. This article views macroprudential oversight in Europe as a process, a sequence of activities with the ultimate aim of safeguarding financial stability. To conceptualize a process in this context, we introduce the notion of a public collaborative process (PCP).PCPs involve multiple organizations with a common objective, where a number of dispersed organizations cooperate under various unstructured forms and take a collaborative approach to reaching the final goal. We argue thatPCPs can and should essentially be managed using the tools and practices common for business processes. To this end, we conduct an assessment of process readiness for macroprudential oversight in Europe. Based upon interviews with key European policy makers and supervisors, we provide an analysis model to assess the maturity of five process enablers for macroprudential oversight. With the results of our analysis, we give clear recommendations on the areas that need further attention when macroprudential oversight is being developed, in addition to providing a general purpose framework for monitoring the impact of improvement efforts.
Factors Contributing to Inappropriate Visits of Frequent Attenders and Their Economic Effects at an Emergency Department in Singapore
Authors: Boh Connie , Li Huihua , Finkelstein Eric , Haaland Benjamin , Xin Xiaohui , Yap Susan , Pasupathi Yogeswary , Ong Marcus EH
Published: August 2015

Objectives

This study aimed to determine which factors contribute to frequent visits at the emergency department (ED) and what proportion were inappropriate in comparison with nonfrequent visits.

Methods

This study was a retrospective, case‐control study comparing a random sample of frequent attenders and nonfrequent attenders, with details of their ED visits recorded over a 12‐month duration. Frequent attenders were defined as patients with four or more visits during the study period.

Results

In comparison with nonfrequent attenders (median age = 45.0 years, interquartile range [IQR] = 28.0 to 61.0 years), frequent attenders were older (median = 57.5 years, IQR = 34.0 to 74.8 years; p = 0.0003). They were also found to have more comorbidities, where 53.3% of frequent attenders had three or more chronic illnesses compared to 14% of nonfrequent attenders (p < 0.0001), and were often triaged to higher priority (more severe) classes (frequent 52.2% vs. nonfrequent 37.6%, p = 0.0004). Social issues such as bad debts (12.7%), heavy drinking (3.3%), and substance abuse (2.7%) were very low in frequent attenders compared to Western studies. Frequent attenders had a similar rate of appropriate visits to the ED as nonfrequent attenders (55.2% vs. 48.1%, p = 0.0892), but were more often triaged to P1 priority triage class (6.7% vs. 3.2%, p = 0.0014) and were more often admitted for further management compared to nonfrequent attenders (47.5% vs. 29.6%, p < 0.001). The majority of frequent attender visits were appropriate (55.2%), and of these, 81.1% resulted in admission. For the same number of patients, total visits made by frequent attenders ($174,247.60) cost four times as much as for nonfrequent attenders ($40,912.40). This represents a significant economic burden on the health care system.

Conclusions

ED frequent attenders in Singapore were associated with higher age and presence of multiple comorbidities rather than with social causes of ED use. Even in integrated health systems, repeat ED visits are frequent and expensive, despite minimal social causes of acute care. EDs in aging populations must anticipate the influx of vulnerable, elderly patients and have in place interventional programs to care for them.
Factors associated with illicit methadone injecting in a Canadian setting
Authors: Tucker Devin , Milloy M‐J , Hayashi Kanna , Nguyen Paul , Kerr Thomas , Wood Evan
Published: August 2015

Background and Objectives

While methadone is well established as an evidence‐based treatment for opioid use disorder, safety concerns persist regarding its diversion. The authors examine the prevalence of and risk factors associated with injection of methadone in an urban population.

Methods

Between December 2005 and November 2013, data were derived from two open prospective studies of persons who inject drugs (PWID) in Vancouver, Canada. Generalized estimating equations (GEE) logistic regression was used to determine factors independently associated with illicit methadone injecting.

Results

During the study, 1911 individuals (34% women) were recruited; 134 (7%) participants reported methadone injecting at least once. In multivariable analysis, Caucasian ethnicity [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.90, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.20–3.00]; homelessness (AOR = 1.46, 95% CI = 1.09–1.95); drug dealing (AOR = 2.10, 95% CI = 1.50–2.93); ≥daily heroin injection (AOR = 1.57, 95% CI = 1.08–2.26); ≥daily crack smoking (AOR = 2.06, 95% CI = 1.44–2.95); being a victim of violence (AOR = 1.48, 95% CI = 1.04–2.12); and non‐fatal overdose (AOR = 1.67, 95% CI = 1.67 (1.00–2.79) were independently and positively associated with methadone injection; female gender (AOR = 0.47, 95% CI = 0.30–0.75) was negatively associated.

Discussion and Conclusions

The diversion of methadone for illicit injection in this urban setting was associated with several markers of addiction severity and other health and social vulnerabilities.

Scientific Significance

These findings underscore the need to ensure methadone accessibility while limiting diversion‐related risk. (Am J Addict 2015;24:532–537)
Treating ischaemia‐reperfusion injury with prostaglandin E1 reduces the risk of early hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence following liver transplantation
Authors: Kornberg A. , Witt U. , Kornberg J. , Friess H. , Thrum K.
Published: August 2015

Background

Surgical stress by hepatic ischaemia‐reperfusion (I/R) is supposed to promote intra‐ and extrahepatic tumour recurrence. Treatment with prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) has been shown to attenuate hepatic I/R injury in liver transplant patients, but the potential anti‐cancer effects have not been analysed.

Aim

To evaluate the impact of PGE1 therapy on risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recurrence in liver transplant patients.

Methods

A retrospective review of 106 liver transplant patients with HCC was conducted. Fifty‐nine patients underwent early post‐liver transplantation (LT) treatment with the stable PGE1 analogue alprostadil. Administration of alprostadil was correlated with outcome in uni‐ and multivariate analysis. Subgroup analysis focused on patients with HCC beyond the Milan criteria (Milan Out) on radiographic imaging.

Results

Three‐ and 5‐year recurrence‐free survival rates were 87.9% and 85.7% in the PGE1‐group, but only 65.3% and 63.1% in the non‐PGE1‐population (P = 0.003). Multivariate Cox regression analysis identified absence of PGE1‐treatment (HR = 11.42), along with presence of poor tumour grading (HR = 2.69) and microvascular tumour invasion (HR = 35.8) to be independently associated with early (within 12 months) HCC recurrence. In Milan Out‐patients, only therapy with PGE1 (HR = 5.09) and well/moderate tumour differentiation (HR = 6.51) were independent promoters of recurrence‐free survival.

Conclusions

Treating hepatic ischaemia‐reperfusion injury with alprostadil reduces the risk of early HCC recurrence following LT. In particular patients with HCC exceeding the Milan criteria seem to benefit from PGE1‐treatment. The molecular mechanisms of the anti‐tumour effects need to be further assessed.
The sGC stimulator riociguat inhibits platelet function in washed platelets but not in whole blood
Authors: Reiss C. , Mindukshev I. , Bischoff V. , Subramanian H. , Kehrer L. , Friebe A. , Stasch J.‐P. , Gambaryan S. , Walter U.
Published: August 2015

Background and Purpose

Stimulation of soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) is a valuable therapeutic strategy for the treatment of several cardiovascular diseases. The sGC stimulator riociguat has been approved for the treatment of two forms of pulmonary hypertension. Platelets contain large amounts of sGC and play a key role in the regulation of haemostasis. Therefore, we investigated the effects of riociguat on platelet function.

Experimental Approach

The effect of riociguat treatment on human platelet activation and aggregation was investigated. The sGC‐specific effects of riociguat were determined by comparing wild‐type and platelet‐specific sGC‐knockout mice.

Key Results

Riociguat induced cGMP synthesis and subsequent PKG activation in human platelets, suggesting that the inhibitory effects are mediated by cGMP signalling. This finding was confirmed when sGC‐knockout platelets were not inhibited by riociguat. In washed human platelets, 100 nM riociguat reduced ADP‐induced GPIIb/IIIa activation, while a 10‐fold higher concentration was required to reduce convulxin‐stimulated GPIIb/IIIa activation. Riociguat inhibited ADP‐induced platelet shape change and aggregation, while ATP‐induced shape change remained unaffected. However, in PRP and whole blood, 50–100 μM riociguat was required to inhibit platelet activation and aggregation. Riociguat in combination with iloprost significantly inhibited platelet aggregation, even in whole blood.

Conclusions and Implications

Riociguat inhibits platelet activation in whole blood only at concentrations above 50 μM, while the plasma concentrations in riociguat‐treated patients are 150 to 500 nM. This finding indicates that riociguat treatment does not affect platelet function in patients. Nevertheless, the possibility that riociguat acts synergistically with iloprost to inhibit platelet activation should be considered.
Crucial role of the orexin‐B C‐terminus in the induction of OX1 receptor‐mediated apoptosis: analysis by alanine scanning, molecular modelling and site‐directed mutagenesis
Authors: Nicole Pascal , Couvineau Pierre , Jamin Nadege , Voisin Thierry , Couvineau Alain
Published: August 2015

Background and Purpose

Orexins (A and B) are hypothalamic peptides that interact with OX1 and OX2 receptors and are involved in the sleep/wake cycle. We previously demonstrated that OX1 receptors are highly expressed in colon cancer tumours and colonic cancer cell lines where orexins induce apoptosis and inhibit tumour growth in preclinical animal models. The present study explored the structure–function relationships of orexin‐B and OX1 receptors.

Experimental Approach

The contribution of all orexin‐B residues in orexin‐B‐induced apoptosis was investigated by alanine scanning. To determine which OX1 receptor domains are involved in orexin‐B binding and apoptosis, a 3D model of OX1 receptor docked to the orexin‐B C‐terminus (AA‐20–28) was developed. Substitution of residues present in OX1 receptor transmembrane (TM) domains by site‐directed mutagenesis was performed.

Key Results

Alanine substitution of orexin‐B residues, L11, L15, A22, G24, I25, L26 and M28, altered orexin‐B's binding affinity. Substitution of these residues and of the Q16, A17, S18, N20 and T27 residues inhibited apoptosis in CHO‐S–OX1 receptor cells. The K120, P123, Y124, N318, K321, F340, T341, H344 and W345 residues localized in TM2, TM3, TM6 and TM7 of OX1 receptors were shown to play a role in orexin‐B recognition and orexin‐B/OX1 receptor‐induced apoptosis.

Conclusions and Implications

The C‐terminus of orexin‐B (i) plays an important role in its pro‐apoptotic effect; and (ii) interacts with some residues localized in the OX1 receptor TM. This study defines the structure–function relationship for orexin‐B recognition by human OX1 receptors and orexin‐B/OX1 receptor‐induced apoptosis, an important step for the future development of new agonist molecules.
Cracking the humanitarian logistic coordination challenge: lessons from the urban search and rescue community
Authors: Tatham Peter , Spens Karen
Published: August 2015

The challenges of achieving successful inter‐agency logistic coordination in preparing for and responding to natural disasters and complex emergencies are both well understood and well documented. However, although many of these challenges remain unresolved, the literature reveals that the organisations that form the urban search and rescue (USAR) community have attained a high level of coherence and interoperability that results in a highly efficient and effective response. Therefore, this paper uses the idea of ‘borrowing’ from other fields as it explores how the processes and procedures used by the USAR community might be applied to improve humanitarian logistic operations. The paper analyses the USAR model and explores how the resultant challenges might be addressed in a humanitarian logistic context. The paper recommends that further research be undertaken in order to develop a modified USAR model that could be operationalised by the international community of humanitarian logisticians.