bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trading in waste: Integrating sustainable development goals and environmental policies in trade negotiations toward enhanced solid waste management in Pacific Islands countries and territories
Authors: Farrelly Trisia , Schneider Paul , Stupples Polly
Published: April 2016

This paper provides a broad survey of existing literature on contemporary solid waste management (SWM) in the Pacific region to underscore an urgent and compelling need for improved SWM. Despite advances in waste management systems and funding for technical support and capacity building from a range of sources, waste continues to threaten public and ecological health and the economy in Pacific Islands Countries and Territories (PICTs). SWM in the Pacific requires innovative thinking in a challenging environment of remoteness, limited available land, fragile ecosystems, vulnerability to natural hazards and subsequent climate sensitivity. Many PICTs are under considerable pressure to open their markets up to trade liberalisation. Increasing links to the global economy through trade liberalisation could either further exacerbate waste management challenges in the Pacific or contribute to environmental protection and sustainable development goals. The authors argue that if the PICTs' urgent waste management challenges are to be meaningfully addressed, the region's leaders must ensure trading partners conform to local environmental protection policies and that trade agreements align with sustainable development goals.
Agency, choice and restrictions in producing Latina/o street‐vending landscapes in Los Angeles
Authors: Munoz Lorena
Published: April 2016

This paper interrogates how street vendors and ‘street landlords’ (street gangs), the local state and its apparatus produce quasi‐organised street‐vending landscapes in Los Angeles. It draws upon the notion of urban informality, uneven geographies of value as well as work that engages with divergent enactments of agency negotiated in relation to restrictive social structural processes. It illustrates that despite complex layers of restrictions and codes imposed by the local state, gang members and the vendors themselves , street vendors do enact agency, not as collective efforts to resist or gain state legitimacy, but as an individual ‘choice’ to work as vendors among a range of employment options to them.
Predictors of Unplanned Cesareans among Low‐Risk Migrant Women from Low‐ and Middle‐Income Countries Living in Montreal, Canada
Authors: Merry Lisa , Semenic Sonia , Gyorkos Theresa W. , Fraser William , Gagnon Anita J.
Published: April 2016

Background

Research has yielded little understanding of factors associated with high cesarean rates among migrant women (i.e., women born abroad). The objective of this study was to identify medical, migration, social, and health service predictors of unplanned cesareans among low‐risk migrant women from low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs).

Methods

We used a case–control research design. The sampling frame included migrant women from LMICs living in Canada less than 8 years, who gave birth at one of three Montreal hospitals between March 2014 and January 2015. Data were collected from medical records and by interview‐administration of the Migrant‐Friendly Maternity Care Questionnaire. We performed multi‐variable logistic regression for low‐risk women (i.e., vertex, singleton, term pregnancies) who delivered vaginally (1,615 controls) and by unplanned cesarean indicated by failure to progress, fetal distress, or cephalopelvic disproportion (233 cases).

Results

Predictors of unplanned cesarean included being from sub‐Saharan Africa/Caribbean (OR 2.37 [95% CI 1.02–5.51]) and admission for delivery during early labor (OR 5.43 [95% CI 3.17–9.29]). Among women living in Canada less than 2 years predictors were having a humanitarian migration classification (OR 4.24 [95% CI 1.16–15.46]) and admission for delivery during early labor (OR 7.68 [95% CI 3.12–18.88]).

Conclusion

Migrant women from sub‐Saharan Africa/Caribbean and recently arrived migrant women with a humanitarian classification are at greater risk for unplanned cesareans compared with other low‐risk migrant women from LMICs after controlling for medical factors. Strategies to prevent cesareans should consider the circumstances of migrant women that may be contributing to the use of unplanned cesareans in this population.
Synthesis, Antiproliferative, and Multidrug Resistance Reversal Activities of Heterocyclic α,β‐Unsaturated Carbonyl Compounds
Authors: Sun Ju‐feng , Hou Gui‐ge , Zhao Feng , Cong Wei , Li Hong‐juan , Liu Wen‐shuai , Wang Chunhua
Published: April 2016

A series of heterocyclic α,β‐unsaturated carbonyl compounds (1a‐1d, 2a‐2d, 3a‐3d, 4a‐3d, and 5a‐5d) with 1,5‐diaryl‐3‐oxo‐1,4‐pentadienyl pharmacophore were synthesized for the development of anticancer and multidrug resistance reverting agents. The antiproliferative activities were tested against nine human cancer cell lines. Approximately 73% of the IC50 values were below 5 μm, while 35% of these figures were submicromolar, and compounds 3a‐3d with 4‐trifluoro methyl in the arylidene benzene rings were the most potent, since their IC50 values are between 0.06 and 3.09 μm against all cancer cell lines employed. Meanwhile, their multidrug resistance reversal properties and cellular uptake were further examined. The data displayed that all of these compounds could reverse multidrug resistance, particularly, compounds 3a and 4a demonstrated both potent multidrug resistance reverting properties and strong antiproliferative activities, which can be taken as leading molecules for further research of dual effect agents in tumor chemotherapy.
Morningness–Eveningness and Physical Activity in Adolescent Girls: Menarche as a Transition Point
Authors: Beal Sarah J. , Grimm Kevin J. , Dorn Lorah D. , Susman Elizabeth J.
Published: April 2016

This study identified trajectories of morningness–eveningness (M–E) and physical activity when chronological (i.e., time since birth) versus gynecological (i.e., time since menarche) age is used to indicate maturation. Piecewise models were fit for girls (N = 262, ages 11–19) using chronological or gynecological age as the time metric. Girls stayed up later (i.e., eveningness) as they approach menarche. After menarche no change in M–E was observed. In contrast, no change in M–E was detected with chronological age. No change in physical activity was observed before menarche, and physical activity declined after menarche. With chronological age, physical activity declined as girls got older. Gynecological age may be more appropriate than chronological age as a metric for understanding changes in M–E and physical activity.
The clearing of dyed polyester. Part 1. A comparison of traditional reduction clearing with treatments using organic reducing agents
Authors: ul Aleem Anwar , Christie Robert M.
Published: April 2016

Reduction clearing using aqueous sodium dithionite under alkaline conditions at elevated temperatures is commonly carried out as an aftertreatment to remove deposits of disperse dye and other impurity residues from the surface of dyed polyester. In this paper, the effect of conventional reduction clearing on the colour and fastness properties of polyester dyed with a series of selected commercial disperse dyes at a range of depths of shade is established, and an understanding of the scientific principles is developed. The results correlate closely with an assessment of surface dye removal by cold acetone extraction of the dyed samples. Because of certain environmental, technological, and economic disadvantages associated with traditional reduction clearing using sodium dithionite, there is industrial interest in alternatives. Thus, this paper also describes a study of the use of two organic reducing agents, thiourea dioxide and hydroxyacetone, and the relative merits of the three processes are discussed. The outcome of clearing varies with the particular dye. Mechanistic explanations are proposed, based on individual characteristics of the molecular structures of the dyes. Scanning electron microscopic investigations of the surface of dyed samples before and after reduction clearing were qualitatively consistent with the assessments of the technical performance. This paper is the first in a series in which we will subsequently report further comparative studies, based on similar methodology, exploring alternative clearing processes.
Transcranial Doppler: Does Addition of Blood to Agitated Saline Affect Sensitivity for Detecting Cardiac Right‐to‐Left Shunt?
Authors: Mojadidi Mohammad Khalid , Zhang Lili , Chugh Yashasvi , Eshtehardi Parham , Hovnanians Ninel , Gevorgyan Rubine , Mojaddedi Sanaullah , Nezami Nariman , Zaman Muhammad Omer , Rafique Asim , Villablanca Pedro A. , Tobis Jonathan M.
Published: April 2016

Background

Transcranial Doppler (TCD) with agitated saline has been shown to be an alternative for the detection of right‐to‐left shunts (RLS) with similar diagnostic accuracies as transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). It is hypothesized that the addition of blood to agitated saline increases the sensitivity of TCD for the detection of RLS. The aim of this meta‐analysis was to determine whether agitated saline with blood increases the sensitivity of TCD for the detection of RLS compared to agitated saline alone and other contrast agents.

Method

A systematic review of Medline, Cochrane, and Embase was performed to look for all prospective studies assessing intracardiac RLS using TCD compared with TEE as the reference; both tests were performed with a contrast agent and a maneuver to provoke RLS in all studies.

Results

A total of 27 studies (29 comparisons) with 1,968 patients met the inclusion criteria. Of 29 comparisons, 10 (35%) used echovist contrast during TCD, 4 (14%) used a gelatin‐based solution, 12 (41%) used agitated saline, and 3 (10%) utilized 2 different contrast agents. The addition of blood to agitated saline improved the sensitivity of TCD to 100% compared to agitated saline alone (96% sensitivity, P = 0.161), echovist (94% sensitivity, P = 0.044), and gelatin‐based solutions (93% sensitivity, P = 0.041).

Conclusion

The addition of blood to agitated saline improves the sensitivity of TCD for the detection of RLS to 100% when compared to other conventional contrast agents; these findings support the addition of blood to agitated saline during TCD bubble studies.
Central nervous system prophylaxis in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Zahid Mohammad Faizan , Khan Nadia , Hashmi Shahrukh K. , Kizilbash Sani Haider , Barta Stefan K.
Published: April 2016

Central nervous system (CNS) involvement with diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is a relatively uncommon manifestation; with most cases of CNS involvement occuring during relapse after primary therapy. CNS dissemination typically occurs early in the disease course and is most likely present subclinically at the time of diagnosis in many patients who later relapse in the CNS. CNS relapse in these patients is associated with poor outcomes. Based on a CNS relapse rate of 5% in DLBCL and weighing the benefits against the toxicities, universal application of CNS prophylaxis is not justified. The introduction of rituximab has significantly reduced the incidence of CNS relapse in DLBCL. Different studies have employed other agents for CNS prophylaxis, such as intrathecal chemotherapy and high‐dose systemic agents with sufficient CNS penetration. If CNS prophylaxis is to be given, it should be preferably administered during primary chemotherapy. However, there is no strong evidence that supports any single approach for CNS prophylaxis. In this review, we outline different strategies of administering CNS prophylaxis in DLBCL patients reported in literature and discuss their advantages and drawbacks.
Long‐term depressive symptoms and anxiety after transient ischaemic attack or ischaemic stroke in young adults
Authors: Maaijwee N. A. M. M. , Tendolkar I. , Rutten‐Jacobs L. C. A. , Arntz R. M. , Schaapsmeerders P. , Dorresteijn L. D. , Schoonderwaldt H. C. , van Dijk E. J. , de Leeuw F.‐E.
Published: April 2016

Background and purpose

Few studies exist on long‐term post‐stroke depressive symptoms and anxiety in young adults, although these young patients have a particular interest in their long‐term prognosis, given their usually long life expectancy and being in the midst of an active social, working and family life. The aims of this study were to investigate the prevalence of depressive symptoms and anxiety and their association with clinical and demographic variables and with functional outcome after stroke in young adults.

Methods and results

Long‐term prevalence of depressive symptoms and anxiety was calculated in 511 patients with a transient ischaemic attack or ischaemic stroke, aged 18–50 years, using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale, compared with 147 controls. Functional outcome was assessed with the modified Rankin Score (mRS) and the Instrumental Activities of Daily Living scale (IADL). 16.8% of patients had depressive symptoms and 23.0% had anxiety, versus 6.1% (P = 0.001) and 12.2% (P < 0.001) in controls. In ischaemic stroke patients, depressive symptoms and anxiety were associated with poor functional outcome (mRS > 2 or IADL < 8).

Conclusion

Even a decade after stroke at young age, depressive symptoms and anxiety were prevalent and associated with poor functional outcome. Therefore, even in the long term, treating physicians should be aware of the long‐term presence of these symptoms as their recognition may be the first step in improving long‐term functional independence.
Comparison of the acute ultraviolet photoresponse in congenic albino hairless C57BL/6J mice relative to outbred SKH1 hairless mice
Authors: Konger Raymond L. , Derr‐Yellin Ethel , Hojati Delaram , Lutz Cathleen , Sundberg John P.
Published: April 2016

Hairless albino Crl:SKH1‐Hrhr mice are commonly utilized for studies in which hair or pigmentation would introduce an impediment to observational studies. Being an outbred strain, the SKH1 model suffers from key limitations that are not seen with congenic mouse strains. Inbred and congenic C57BL/6J mice are commonly utilized for modified genetic mouse models. We compare the acute UV‐induced photoresponse between outbred SKH1 mice and an immune competent, hairless, albino C57BL/6J congenic mouse line [B6.Cg‐Tyrc−2J Hrhr/J]. Histologically, B6.Cg‐Tyrc−2J Hrhr/J skin is indistinguishable from that of SKH1 mice. The skin of both SKH1 and B6.Cg‐Tyrc−2J Hrhr/J mice exhibited a reduction in hypodermal adipose tissue, the presence of utricles and dermal cystic structures, the presence of dermal granulomas and epidermal thickening. In response to a single 1500 J/m2 ultraviolet B dose, the oedema and apoptotic responses were equivalent in both mouse strains. However, B6.Cg‐Tyrc−2J Hrhr/J mice exhibited a more robust delayed sunburn reaction, with an increase in epidermal erosion, scab formation and myeloperoxidase activity relative to SKH1 mice. Compared with SKH1 mice, B6.Cg‐Tyrc−2J Hrhr/J also exhibited an aberrant proliferative response to this single UV exposure. Epidermal Ki67 immunopositivity was significantly suppressed in B6.Cg‐Tyrc−2J Hrhr/J mice at 24 h post‐UV. A smaller non‐significant reduction in Ki67 labelling was observed in SKH1 mice. Finally, at 72 h post‐UV, SKH1 mice, but not B6.Cg‐Tyrc−2J Hrhr/J mice, exhibited a significant increase in Ki67 immunolabelling relative to non‐irradiated controls. Thus, B6.Cg‐Tyrc−2J Hrhr/J mice are suitable for photobiology experiments.
Photobiomodulation devices for hair regrowth and wound healing: a therapy full of promise but a literature full of confusion
Authors: Mignon Charles , Botchkareva Natalia V. , Uzunbajakava Natallia E. , Tobin Desmond J.
Published: April 2016

Photobiomodulation is reported to positively influence hair regrowth, wound healing, skin rejuvenation and psoriasis. Despite rapid translation of this science to commercial therapeutic solutions, significant gaps in our understanding of the underlying processes remain. The aim of this review was to seek greater clarity and rationality specifically for the selection of optical parameters for studies on hair regrowth and wound healing. Our investigation of 90 reports published between 1985 and 2015 revealed major inconsistencies in optical parameters selected for clinical applications. Moreover, poorly understood photoreceptors expressed in skin such as cytochrome c oxidase, cryptochromes, opsins etc. may trigger different molecular mechanisms. All this could explain the plethora of reported physiological effects of light. To derive parameters for optimal clinical efficacy of photobiomodulation, we recommend a more rational approach to underpin clinical studies, with research on molecular targets and pathways using well‐defined biological model systems to enable translation of optical parameters from in vitro to in vivo. Furthermore, special attention needs to be paid when conducting studies for hair regrowth, aiming for double‐blind, placebo‐controlled randomized clinical trials as the gold standard for quantifying hair growth.
The role of Inadine in wound care: a consensus document
Authors: Sibbald R. Gary , Elliott James A
Published: April 2016

Iodine‐based products are antibacterial. The small iodine molecular size is ideally suited to treat surface critical colonisation. Inadine is a 10% povidone iodine dressing with the equivalent of 1% available iodine that is easily extracted from the viscose backing by serum or exudate. The use of hydrophilic polyethylene glycol tulle dressing delivery vehicle allows the dressing to be easily removed by irrigation with potable water or saline. In this study, we developed a short online survey completed by 23 wound‐care key opinion leaders from the nursing, medical and podiatry professions. A computerised modified Delphi technique was used to achieve 80% consensus on 11 statements related to the utility and everyday topical wound‐care use of this product.
Photonic Sintering of Aerosol Jet Printed Lead Zirconate Titanate (PZT) Thick Films
Authors: Ouyang Jing , Cormier Denis , Williams Scott A. , Borkholder David A.
Published: April 2016

Lead Zirconate Titanate (PZT) is a commonly used piezoelectric material due to its high piezoelectric response. We demonstrate a new method of printing and sintering micro‐scale PZT films with low substrate temperature increase. Self‐prepared PZT ink was Aerosol‐Jet printed on stainless steel substrates. After drying for 2 h in vacuum at 200°C, the printed PZT films were divided into two groups. The first group was traditionally sintered, using a thermal process at 1000°C for 1 h in an Argon environment. The second group was photonically sintered using repetitive sub‐msec pulses of high intensity broad spectrum light in an atmospheric environment. The highest measured substrate temperature during photonic sintering was 170.7°C, enabling processing on low melting point substrates. Ferroelectric measurements were performed with a low‐frequency sinusoidal signal. The remanent polarization (Pr) and coercive field (Ec) for thermally sintered PZT film were 17.1 μC/cm2 and 6.3 kV/cm, respectively. The photonically sintered film had 32.4 μC/cm2 Pr and 6.7 kV/cm Ec. After poling the samples with 20 kV/cm electric field for 2 h at 150°C, the piezoelectric voltage constant (g33) was measured for the two film groups yielding −16.9 × 10−3 (V·m)·N−1 (thermally sintered) and −17.9 × 10−3 (V·m)·N−1 (photonically sintered). Both factors indicate the PZT films were successfully sintered using both methods, with the photonically sintered material exhibiting superior electrical properties. To further validate photonic sintering of PZT on low melting point substrates, the process and measurements were repeated using a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrate. The measured Pr and Ec were 23.1 μC/cm2 and 5.1 kV/cm, respectively. The g33 was −17.3 × 10−3 (V·m)·N−1. Photonic sintering of thick film PZT directly on low melting point substrates eliminates the need for complex layer transfer processes often associated with flexible PZT transducers.
A zoogeographical boundary between the Palaearctic and Sino‐Japanese realms documented by consistent north/south phylogeographical divergences in three woodland birds in eastern China
Authors: Song Gang , Zhang Ruiying , Qu Yanhua , Wang Zhiheng , Dong Lu , Kristin Anton , Alström Per , Ericson Per G. P. , Lambert David M. , Fjeldså Jon , Lei Fumin
Published: April 2016

Aim

The location of zoogeographical boundaries in eastern China has long been the subject of debate. To identify any north/south genetic divergence between the Palaearctic and Sino‐Japanese realms proposed by previous studies, we conducted a comparative phylogeographical study involving three passerine species with wide latitudinal distributions in eastern China.

Location

Eastern China.

Methods

Two mitochondrial genes and three nuclear introns were amplified and sequenced. Population structures were analysed using intra‐specific phylogeny,tcsnetworks,AMOVAand structure inferences. We tested for evidence of genetic barriers based on pairwise differences. Lineage divergences, demographic dynamics and gene flow between lineages were estimated using Bayesian methods.

Results

A congruent north/south phylogeographical divergence was identified for three species. A geographical barrier was inferred atc. 40° N in eastern China. The population sizes of the northern and southern lineages have both been stable through the late Pleistocene, while multiple divergences were inferred during the early and middle Pleistocene.

Main conclusions

Our results suggest a general phylogeographical break in north‐eastern China, coinciding with the Palaearctic/Sino‐Japanese boundary. Physical blocking of the Yan Mountains and fragmentation of suitable habitat during glacial stages between the north and south probably acted together to provide long‐lasting barrier effects. Our comparative phylogeographical approach demonstrates that the Palaearctic/Sino‐Japanese boundary may represent a gene‐flow barrier even within widespread species.
Wide QRS‐T Angle on the 12‐Lead ECG as a Predictor of Sudden Death Beyond the LV Ejection Fraction
Authors: CHUA KELVIN C.M. , TEODORESCU CARMEN , REINIER KYNDARON , UY‐EVANADO AUDREY , ARO AAPO L. , NAIR SANDEEP G. , CHUGH HARPRIYA , JUI JONATHAN , CHUGH SUMEET S.
Published: April 2016

QRST‐angle and Sudden Cardiac Death

Introduction

Improvements in risk stratification for sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) will require discovery of markers that extend beyond the LV ejection fraction (LVEF). The frontal QRS‐T angle has been shown to predict risk of SCA but the value of this marker independent of the LVEF has not been investigated.

Methods and Results

Cases of adult SCA with an archived electrocardiogram (12‐lead ECG) available before the event, with a computable frontal QRS‐T angle, were identified from the Oregon Sudden Unexpected Death Study (Oregon SUDS) ongoing in the Portland, Oregon metro area. A total of 666 SCA cases (mean age 67.2 years; 95% CI, 52.3–82.1 years; 68.6% males) were compared to 863 controls (mean age 66.6 years, 55.2–78.0 years; 68.1% males; 75.0% had CAD) from the same geographical region. The mean frontal QRS‐T angle was wider in cases (74o; 95% CI, 17o–131o) compared to controls (51o; 95% CI, 5o–97o; P< 0.0001). A frontal QRS‐T angle of more than 90o remained associated with increased risk of SCD after adjusting for age, gender, heart rate, prolonged intraventricular conduction, electrocardiographic left ventricular hypertrophy (ECG LVH), baseline comorbidities, and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (OR 2.2; 95% CI, 1.60–3.09; P< 0.0001).

Conclusion

A wide QRS‐T angle greater than 90o is associated with an increased risk of SCA independent of the left ventricular ejection fraction.
Biophysical Modeling Predicts Ventricular Tachycardia Inducibility and Circuit Morphology: A Combined Clinical Validation and Computer Modeling Approach
Authors: CHEN ZHONG , CABRERA‐LOZOYA ROCIO , RELAN JATIN , SOHAL MANAV , SHETTY ANOOP , KARIM RASHED , DELINGETTE HERVE , GILL JASWINDER , RHODE KAWAL , AYACHE NICHOLAS , TAGGART PETER , RINALDI CHRISTOPHER ALDO , SERMESANT MAXIME , RAZAVI REZA
Published: April 2016

VT Stimulation In Silico

Introduction

Computational modeling of cardiac arrhythmogenesis and arrhythmia maintenance has made a significant contribution to the understanding of the underlying mechanisms of arrhythmia. We hypothesized that a cardiac model using personalized electro‐anatomical parameters could define the underlying ventricular tachycardia (VT) substrate and predict reentrant VT circuits. We used a combined modeling and clinical approach in order to validate the concept.

Methods and results

Non‐contact electroanatomic mapping studies were performed in 7 patients (5 ischemics, 2 non‐ischemics). Three ischemic cardiomyopathy patients underwent a clinical VT stimulation study. Anatomical information was obtained from cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) including high‐resolution scar imaging. A simplified biophysical mono‐domain action potential model personalized with the patients’ anatomical and electrical information was used to perform in silico VT stimulation studies for comparison. The personalized in silico VT stimulations were able to predict VT inducibility as well as the macroscopic characteristics of the VT circuits in patients who had clinical VT stimulation studies. The patients with positive clinical VT stimulation studies had wider distribution of action potential duration restitution curve (APD‐RC) slopes and APDs than the patient with a negative VT stimulation study. The exit points of reentrant VT circuits encompassed a higher percentage of the maximum APD‐RC slope compared to the scar and non‐scar areas, 32%, 4%, and 0.2%, respectively.

Conclusions

VT stimulation studies can be simulated in silico using a personalized biophysical cardiac model. Myocardial spatial heterogeneity of APD restitution properties and conductivity may help predict the location of crucial entry/exit points of reentrant VT circuits.
A review of Clarias gariepinus invasions in Brazil and South Africa
Authors: Weyl O. L. F. , Daga V. S. , Ellender B. R. , Vitule J. R. S.
Published: April 2016

African sharptooth catfish Clarias gariepinus is native to most of Africa and small parts of Asia, but has been introduced to 37 countries mainly for aquaculture. This review of introductions, establishment, spread and impact of C. gariepinus in Brazil and outside of its native range in South Africa provides evidence that the species has been able to overcome all barriers to invasion in both countries. Following initial introductions across geographical barriers, containment seems to have been impossible and escape from aquaculture facilities and spread by illegal introductions is an invasion pathway in both countries. There is evidence of individuals dispersing rapidly following escape, and surviving and reproducing at multiple sites in a wide spectrum of habitats in both countries. There is a severe paucity of research on impacts, many of which are inferred from field and laboratory observations, but have not been demonstrated at population or community level. Such impact studies are urgently required to better understand the consequences of these invasions and to develop appropriate strategies to mitigate impacts and spread.
Recovery of Arapaima sp. populations by community‐based management in floodplains of the Purus River, Amazon
Authors: Petersen T. A. , Brum S. M , Rossoni F. , Silveira G. F. V. , Castello L.
Published: April 2016

In the present study a unique dataset on population abundance in various community‐based management (CBM) and non‐CBM areas is analysed to address the question of whether CBM can recover overexploited populations of Arapaima sp. in river‐floodplain ecosystems. All non‐CBM areas possessed depleted Arapaima sp. populations with a mean density of 0·01 individuals ha−1. Arapaima sp. population densities in all CBM areas changed over time from depleted to overexploited or well managed status, with a mean rate of increase of 77% year−1. Rates of Arapaima sp. population recovery in CBM areas differed, probably reflecting differences in ecosystem productivity and compliance with management regulations. These results indicate that CBM schemes can be effective tools for the recovery and conservation of fish populations with non‐migratory life cycles in tropical river‐floodplain ecosystems.
Dispersion of the invasive common carp Cyprinus carpio in southern South America: changes and expectations, westward and southward
Authors: Crichigno S. , Cordero P. , Blasetti G. , Cussac V.
Published: April 2016

Common carp Cyprinus carpio possess multiple traits that contribute to their success as an invasive species. They have been introduced across the globe, and abundant populations can have numerous negative effects. Although ecological niche‐based modelling techniques have been used to predict the potential range of C. carpio invasion in U.S.A., occurrence and abundance patterns have not yet been considered on a regional scale. In the present review new locations are documented, the status of the southernmost population has been studied and the probability of new lakes and reservoirs being colonized by C. carpio has been obtained and related to environmental conditions. The new localities for C. carpio have expanded its distribution westward, into the Andean Region, and present results from the South American southernmost population have shown a well‐established population. Analysis of presence data provided two principal results: (1) the probability of a site being with C. carpio can be inferred using environmental variables and (2) the probability of a site being with C. carpio is a useful tool for the prediction of future invasions. Selective fishing on the Negro basin could constitute a potential mitigation measure, decreasing the abundance of the species and thus reducing the species' potential for southward expansion. These results reinforce the idea that artisanal fisheries, food production and conservation interests should be taken into account by local government management agencies in any discussion regarding the southern distribution of C. carpio in the near future.
Density‐dependent changes in the feeding behaviour of Macrodon atricauda of southern Brazil
Authors: Cardoso L. G. , Haimovici M.
Published: April 2016

Long‐term density‐dependent changes in the population dynamics of the king weakfish Macrodon atricauda of southern Brazil between 1976 and 2013 may be related to a change in diet and an increase in feeding intensity. The importance of the small crustacean, Artemesia longinaris, increased in the diet of adults, whereas the importance of teleosts decreased and the frequency of full stomachs increased. Macrodon atricauda currently benefits from a high availability of A. longinaris, which results in a higher energy intake per individual, which, in turn, induces faster body growth and an earlier onset of sexual maturation.
Heat Transfer Analysis of Superheated Steam by Considering the Spraying Flow Rate
Authors: Mao Weijie , Kato Masaki , Liu Lei , Fukuoka Mika , Sakai Noboru
Published: April 2016

Superheated steam (SHS) is widely used in the food industry for heating purposes. However, the effect that operating conditions may have on food quality are not quite clear. Spraying flow rate is an important operating condition of SHS that plays a key role in temperature distributions in food. During food processing, adjustment of the spraying flow rate depends very much on the operator experience. In this study, computational fluid dynamics software (CFD2000) is used to quantify the magnitude and direction of flow velocity in the vicinity of the sample. Results show that the magnitude and direction of spraying velocity have an important influence on the heat transfer coefficient of the product surface. From the data acquired using CFD2000 and the temperature history obtained from a heating experiment, an equation for the heat transfer coefficient is obtained. Taking condensation and evaporation into account, the formula for the heat transfer coefficient is then substituted into the heat transfer equation in order to simulate the temperature rise during heating by SHS. Analytical and experimental results show that the surface temperature increase in silicon is more rapid when a higher spraying flow rate is used. Meanwhile, for lower spraying flow rates with a larger amount of condensate, a greater amount of time is required to achieve the maximum amount of condensate.

Practical Applications

Heat transfer characteristics during SHS heating is studied by an experimental and theoretical analysis. A mathematical model is constructed that takes condensation, evaporation and the heat transfer coefficient into account. How the temperature increase is affected by the spraying flow rate can be calculated by the model. So the research will help to choose ideal operating conditions. Meanwhile, the established equation of heat transfer coefficient could be used for a variety of food processing during SHS heating. It could contribute to predict a temperature rise and then to control the food quality. Experimental and mathematical methods established in this paper can be used for the researches of various food heated by superheated steam.
Survey of Pathogens Isolated from Mussels Perna Perna Collected in Rocky Shore and Fishmarket of Niterói, RJ, and Their Respective Resistance Profile to Antimicrobial Drugs
Authors: Jayme M.M.A. , Silva M.M. , Sales A. , Nunes M.C. , Freitas‐Almeida A.C. , Araújo F.V.
Published: April 2016

To assess bacteriological safety of mussels Perna perna, harvested in Itaipu, Niterói, RJ and purchased at São Pedro fishmarket at the same city, fecal coliform counts and detection of Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp. and Vibrio spp. was performed in 27 mussel and 9 seawater samples collected between March 2012 and April of 2013. The pathogens isolated were submitted to antimicrobial susceptibility test. The majority (74%) of the mussel samples were unfit for human consumption and 89% of the seawater samples had unsatisfactorily high levels of contamination according to Brazilian laws. From the 77 E. coli and 51 Vibrio spp. isolated, 13% and 68.6% showed multiresistance and 15.6% and 72.5% showed multidrug resistant, respectively. The only Salmonella strain isolated was susceptible to all antimicrobial tested. Serotypes of Salmonella spp. and V. cholerae were not detected from the enrichment broths. Water pollution and food manipulation, throughout the food production chain, were factors which influenced the contamination of mussels.

Practical Applications

This is the first report studying microbial quality of mussels along their process before arriving at the market; including characteristics of virulence genes and antimicrobial resistance of pathogens. Our study demonstrated that after collection, the manipulation realized by mussel's pickers is an important source of contamination, warning to the necessity of a better monitoring in the commercialization of this seafood.
Fat intake and risk of ulcerative colitis: Systematic review and dose–response meta‐analysis of epidemiological studies
Authors: Wang Fan , Lin Xue , Zhao Qiu , Li Jin
Published: April 2016

Background and Aim

Fat intake is generally thought as a risk factor for onset of ulcerative colitis (UC), while epidemiological data had been controversial. This study aimed to evaluate the role of fat intake in the development of UC.

Methods

Comprehensive search in PubMed and Embase was conducted to identify all relevant studies, and the role of fat intake in the development of UC was quantitatively assessed by dose–response meta‐analysis.

Results

Nine studies (four case–control and five prospective cohort) were indentified with a total of 966 UC cases and 171 589 controls. No evidence of a nonlinear dose–response association was found between fat intake and UC risk. Overall, the summary relative risks (RR) for per 30 g increment/day were 1.023 (95%confidence interval [CI]: 0.963–1.087; I2 = 24%; n = 6) for total fat intake, 1.063 (95%CI: 0.845–1.337; I2 = 44.5%; n = 4) for saturated fat intake, 1.214 (95%CI: 0.911–1.618; I2 = 63.1%; n = 4) for monounsaturated fat (MUFA) intake, and 1.247 (95%CI: 0.948–1.640; I2 = 25.4%; n = 4) for polyunsaturated fat (PUFA) intake, respectively. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses showed inconsistent results on PUFA intake, which was significantly related with UC risk after adjusting for smoking (RR: 1.617, 95%CI: 1.045–2.502; I2 = 0%; n = 3). For PUFA and MUFA subtypes, no subtypes were significantly associated with UC risk (P > 0.05), and only docosahexaenoic acid showed a potential protective effect in the development of UC (RR for the highest versus lowest intake level: 0.642, 95%CI: 0.403–1.024; I2 = 34.4%; n = 3)

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis suggested a lack of association between fat intake and UC risk, and large‐scale prospective designed studies are warranted to confirm our findings.
Using monazite and zircon petrochronology to constrain the P–T–t evolution of the middle crust in the Bhutan Himalaya
Authors: Regis D. , Warren C. J. , Mottram C. M. , Roberts N. M. W.
Published: April 2016

The growth and dissolution behaviour of accessory phases (and especially those of geochronological interest) in metamorphosed pelites depends on, among others, the bulk composition, the prograde metamorphic evolution and the cooling path. Monazite and zircon are arguably the most commonly used geochronometers for dating felsic metamorphic rocks, yet crystal growth mechanisms as a function of rock composition, pressure and temperature are still incompletely understood. Ages of different growth zones in zircon and monazite in a garnet‐bearing anatectic metapelite from the Greater Himalayan Sequence in NW Bhutan were investigated via a combination of thermodynamic modelling, microtextural data and interpretation of trace‐element chemical ‘fingerprint’ indicators in order to link them to the metamorphic stage at which they crystallized. Differences in the trace‐element composition (HREE, Y, EuN/Eu*N) of different phases were used to track the growth/dissolution of major (e.g. plagioclase, garnet) and accessory phases (e.g. monazite, zircon, xenotime, allanite). Taken together, these data constrain multiple pressure–temperature–time (P–T–t) points from low temperature (<550 °C) to upper amphibolite facies (partial melting, >700 °C) conditions. The results suggest that the metapelite experienced a cryptic early metamorphic stage at c. 38 Ma at <550 °C, ≥0.85 GPa during which plagioclase was probably absent. This was followed by a prolonged high‐T, medium‐pressure (~600 °C, 0.55 GPa) evolution at 35–29 Ma during which the garnet grew, and subsequent partial melting at >690 °C and >18 Ma. Our data confirm that both geochronometers can crystallize independently at different times along the same P–T path and that neither monazite nor zircon necessarily provides timing constraints on ‘peak’ metamorphism. Therefore, collecting monazite and zircon ages as well as major and trace‐element data from major and accessory phases in the same sample is essential for reconstructing the most coherent metamorphic P–T–t evolution and thus for robustly constraining the rates and timescales of metamorphic cycles.
DETECTING VOLCANIC ERUPTIONS IN TEMPERATURE RECONSTRUCTIONS BY DESIGNED BREAK‐INDICATOR SATURATION
Authors: Pretis Felix , Schneider Lea , Smerdon Jason E. , Hendry David F.
Published: April 2016

We present a methodology for detecting breaks at any point in time‐series regression models using an indicator saturation approach, applied here to modelling climate change. Building on recent developments in econometric model selection for more variables than observations, we saturate a regression model with a full set of designed break functions. By selecting over these break functions using an extended general‐to‐specific algorithm, we obtain unbiased estimates of the break date and magnitude. Monte Carlo simulations confirm the approximate properties of the approach. We assess the methodology by detecting volcanic eruptions in a time series of Northern Hemisphere mean temperature spanning roughly 1200 years, derived from a fully coupled global climate model simulation. Our technique demonstrates that historic volcanic eruptions can be statistically detected without prior knowledge of their occurrence or magnitude‐ and hence may prove useful for estimating the past impact of volcanic events using proxy reconstructions of hemispheric or global mean temperature, leading to an improved understanding of the effect of stratospheric aerosols on temperatures. The break detection procedure can be applied to evaluate policy impacts as well as act as a robust forecasting device.
Relational Contracts and Collaboration in the Supply Chain: Impact of Expected Future Business Volume on the Make‐or‐Buy Decision
Authors: Brahm Francisco , Tarzijan Jorge
Published: April 2016

Relational contracts are key to supply chain collaboration. The literature has focused on the role of trust stemming from prior business with current suppliers. However, the role of expected future business volume on the make‐or‐buy decision has been relatively neglected. This paper contributes to the literature by examining how the level of expected future business volume affects the make‐or‐buy decision, that is, the choice to produce the product or service internally rather than to outsource it. Using regression analysis of secondary data from 12,272 construction projects and controlling for endogeneity, our results show that expected future business volume promotes outsourcing and that this impact is larger when the level of prior business with external suppliers is stronger and there is more specificity in the relationship. Our results are consistent with a game theoretic logic in which informally promising future interactions to sustain collaboration is more credible to external suppliers than to internal units because the former can use their assets elsewhere. Also, our results suggest that trust stemming from prior business reinforces the calculativeness logic that stems from the expectation of future business.
Evolution of the leucine‐rich repeat receptor‐like protein kinase gene family: Ancestral copy number and functional divergence of BAM1 and BAM2 in Brassicaceae
Authors: Li Hao , Shi Qian , Zhang Zai‐Bao , Zeng Li‐Ping , Qi Ji , Ma Hong
Published: April 2016

Gene duplication allows for functional divergence and innovation that provide selective advantages. However, in flowering plants genetic studies have revealed that single‐gene mutations affecting one of two or more closely related paralogs often fail to cause detectable morphological defects, suggesting functional redundancy. Flowering plants have hundreds of genes encoding leucine‐rich repeat receptor‐like protein kinases (LRR‐RLKs), several of which play important roles in anther development, but little is known about their evolutionary history and possible functional divergence. We investigated the evolutionary relationship of the LRR‐RLK gene family by phylogenetic analysis and found that these closely related paralogs resulted from multiple duplication events, such as the one resulting in BAM1 and BAM2. We further used quantitative real‐time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction to verify gene expression changes in immature anthers from the bam1/bam2 single and double mutants compared with wild type, providing strong evidence that the BAM1 and BAM2 genes have evolved different functions, with differential effects on anther gene expression. Moreover, careful examination of anther development in bam1 and bam2 single mutants revealed previously unrecognized extra cell division in tapetum cell layers. Thus our results from phylogenetic, molecular, and morphological analyses uncover sequence and functional differences between paralogs whose single mutants lack obvious fertility defects, effectively revealing functional divergence of duplicate genes.
The impact of the improvement of insomnia on blood pressure in hypertensive patients
Authors: Li Yuan , Yang Yiling , Li Qiubing , Yang Xueqing , Wang Yan , Ku Wai Lim , Li Haicong
Published: April 2016

This study investigated the impact of the improvement of insomnia on the blood pressure levels of hypertensive patients. A total of 402 patients with a diagnosis of insomnia and hypertension were selected and randomly divided into two groups. The treatment group (202 cases) received standard anti‐hypertensive treatment with Estazolam, and the control group (200 cases) received standard anti‐hypertensive treatment with placebo. The sedentary diastolic and systolic blood pressures were measured before the treatment and every 7 days during the experiment. To assess the sleep quality and anxiety and depression levels of patients, the scores of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale and the Hamilton Depression Scale‐17 were reported at the same time points. At the conclusion of the experiment, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale and Hamilton Depression Scale‐17 scores of the treatment group were significantly lower than those of the control group (P < 0.001). The insomnia treatment efficacy of Estazolam in the treatment group was 67.3%, significantly higher than that (14.0%) of the control (P < 0.001). The blood pressure of the treatment group showed significant improvement throughout the experiment. By Day 28, the decrease of sedentary diastolic and systolic blood pressures in the treatment group was significantly greater than that of the control (sedentary systolic blood pressure: 10.5 ± 3.9 versus 3.4 ± 2.5 mmHg; sedentary diastolic blood pressure: 8.1 ± 3.6 versus 2.7 ± 2.1 mmHg, P < 0.001), and the compliance rate of goal blood pressure (< 140/90 mmHg) was 74.8% with Estazolam, compared with 50.5% with placebo (P < 0.001). Thus, the current findings indicated that the improvement of insomnia can significantly help lower blood pressure in hypertensive patients.
A prospective study on symptom generation according to spicy food intake and TRPV1 genotypes in functional dyspepsia patients
Authors: Lee S.‐Y. , Masaoka T. , Han H. S. , Matsuzaki J. , Hong M. J. , Fukuhara S. , Choi H. S. , Suzuki H.
Published: April 2016

Background

Capsaicin is an ingredient of red peppers that binds to transient receptor potential vanilloid subtype 1 (TRPV1), and Koreans eat more capsaicin‐rich food than do Japanese. This study aimed to compare symptom generation according to TRPV1 genotypes and the intake of spicy foods.

Methods

Consecutive functional dyspepsia (FD) patients who were evaluated at Konkuk University Medical Centre (Korea) and Keio University Hospital (Japan) were included. Questionnaires on spicy food intake, patient assessment of gastrointestinal symptoms (PAGI‐SYM), patient assessment of quality of life, and hospital anxiety and depression scale were provided. Blood was sampled for the detection of TRPV1 polymorphisms, and upper gastrointestinal endoscopy was performed with biopsies.

Key Results

Of 121 included subjects, 35 and 28 carried the TRPV1 CC and GG genotypes, respectively, with the prevalence rates not differing between Japan and Korea. The prevalence of FD subtypes did not differ with the spicy food intake, TRPV1 genotypes, or Helicobacter pylori infection. Neither TRPV1 polymorphisms nor H. pylori infections were related to scores on the PAGI‐SYM questionnaires, but spicy food intake was positively correlated with the scores for stomach fullness (p = 0.001) and retching (p = 0.001). Using the linear regression analysis, stomach fullness was associated with spicy food intake (p = 0.007), whereas retching was related to younger age (p < 0.001) and female gender (p = 0.014).

Conclusions & Inferences

Upper gastrointestinal symptoms are more common in subjects with a higher consumption of spicy foods, younger age and female gender, regardless of TRPV1 genotypes and the H. pylori infection status. Capsaicin‐rich foods may induce stomach fullness.