bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of fragmentation and landscape matrix on the nesting success of grassland birds in the Pampas grasslands of Argentina
Authors: Pretelli Matías G. , Isacch Juan P. , Cardoni Daniel A.
Published: July 2015

The loss of grasslands in southeastern South America has negatively affected grassland birds, leading to marked declines in their populations. However, the extent to which habitat transformation impacts on their reproductive performance, and whether the magnitude of these effects may be modulated by landscape matrices, is unknown. We assessed the effect of fragmentation on grassland bird reproduction by comparing the combined influence of fragmentation and landscape matrix on nesting success, brood parasitism and productivity of the Spectacled Tyrant Hymenops perspicillatus and the Brown‐and‐yellow Marshbird Pseudoleistes virescens. Surveys were undertaken in small grassland patches embedded within different landscape matrices (urban and agro‐ecosystem) and in a large patch within a reserve. Reproductive performance was adversely affected by fragmentation. However, these effects were conditioned by matrix type, and the response was not the same for the two species. For Brown‐and‐yellow Marshbird, fragmentation resulted in higher rates of brood parasitism and lower productivity regardless of the matrix type, whereas for Spectacled Tyrant, we found a negative effect only in an agricultural matrix. The lack of extensive grasslands makes small patches important; however, knowing the effects of different matrix types is critical to predicting the conservation value of grassland patches, and the response of different species is not uniform.
Preliminary safety assessment of C–8 xylitol monoester and xylitol phosphate esters
Authors: Silveira J. E. P. S. , Pereda M. C. V. , Nogueira C. , Dieamant G. , Cesar C. K. M. , Assanome K. M. , Silva M. S. , Torello C. O. , Queiroz M. L. S. , Eberlin S.
Published: July 2015

Synopsis

Objectives

Most of the cosmetic compounds with preservative properties available in the market pose some risks concerning safety, such as the possibility of causing sensitization. Due to the fact that there are few options, the proper development of new molecules with this purpose is needed. Xylitol is a natural sugar, and the antimicrobial properties of xylitol‐derived compounds have already been described in the literature. C‐8 xylitol monoester and xylitol phosphate esters may be useful for the development of skincare products. As an initial screen for safety of chemicals, the combination of in silico methods and in vitro testing can aid in prioritizing resources in toxicological investigations while reducing the ethical and monetary costs that are related to animal and human testing. This study was designed to evaluate the safety of C‐8 xylitol monoester and xylitol phosphate esters regarding carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, skin and eye irritation/corrosion and sensitization through alternative methods.

Methods

For the initial safety assessment, quantitative structure‐activity relationship methodology was used. The prediction of the parameters carcinogenicity/mutagenicity, skin and eye irritation/corrosion and sensitization was generated from the chemical structure. The analysis also comprised physical–chemical properties, Cramer rules, threshold of toxicological concern and Michael reaction. In silico results of candidate molecules were compared to 19 compounds with preservative properties that are available in the market. Additionally, in vitro tests (Ames test for mutagenicity, cytotoxicity and phototoxicity tests and hen's egg test – chorioallantoic membrane for irritation) were performed to complement the evaluation.

Results

In silico evaluation of both molecules presented no structural alerts related to eye and skin irritation, corrosion and sensitization, but some alerts for micronucleus and carcinogenicity were detected. However, by comparison, C‐8 xylitol monoester, xylitol phosphate esters showed similar or better results than the compounds available in the market. Concerning experimental data, phototoxicity and mutagenicity results were negative. As expected for compounds with preservative activity, xylitol‐derived substances presented positive result in cytotoxicity test. In hen's egg test, both molecules were irritants.

Conclusion

Our results suggested that xylitol‐derived compounds appear to be suitable candidates for preservative systems in cosmetics.
Physical disruption of oral biofilms by sodium bicarbonate: an in vitro study
Authors: Pratten J , Wiecek J , Mordan N , Lomax A , Patel N , Spratt D , Middleton AM
Published: July 2015

Objectives

Sodium bicarbonate has been shown clinically to be efficacious at removing dental plaque; however, its effect of mechanism against biofilms has not been evaluated in vitro. Here, we used a well‐established in vitro plaque biofilm model to investigate the disruption of dental plaque biofilms.

Methods

Biofilms were grown in a constant depth film fermentor for up to 14 days. The fermentor was inoculated with pooled human saliva and growth maintained with artificial saliva. After various time points, replicate biofilms were removed and subjected to treatment at varying concentrations of sodium bicarbonate. Disruption of the plaque was assessed by viable counts and microscopy.

Results

The viable count results showed that younger biofilms were less susceptible to the action of sodium bicarbonate; however, biofilms of 7 days and older were increasingly susceptible to the material with the oldest biofilms being the most susceptible. Sixty‐seven percentage of sodium bicarbonate slurry was able to reduce the number of organisms present by approx. 3 log10. These quantitative data were corroborated qualitatively with both confocal and electron microscopy, which both showed substantial qualitative removal of mature biofilms.

Conclusions

The results from this study have shown that sodium bicarbonate is able to disrupt mature dental plaque grown in vitro and that its reported efficacy in maintaining oral hygiene may be related to this key factor.
Microalloy Precipitation at the Glass–Steel Interface Enabling Adherence of Porcelain Enamel
Authors: Striepe Simon , Bornhöft Hansjörg , Deubener Joachim , Wendel Jörg
Published: July 2015

The adherence of vitreous enamels on steel plates is studied clarifying the mechanisms taking place at the interface during firing. Evidence is provided from electron microprobe analysis for an iron alloy precipitation at the interface, which results from oversaturation of ferrous iron in the enamel glass. Subsequent coalescence of the alloy particles is observed but only after their bonding to the base metal adherence after cupping is achieved. The formation of microalloys requires Co2+, Ni2+, and Cu2+ ions in the enamel glass. A selective dissolution of the base metal by the latter cations does not occur.
The extent and magnitude of formalin adulteration in fish sold in domestic markets of Bangladesh: a literature review
Authors: Rahman Sayeeda , Majumder Md Anwarul Azim , Ahasan Rabiul , Ahmed SM Moslehuddin , Das Palash , Rahman Nuzhat
Published: July 2015

Bangladesh has been suffering from rampant food adulteration for the last few decades. Dishonest businessmen use formalin illegally as preservative to prevent spoilage and increase shelf‐life of fish. Prolonged consumption of formalin adulterated fish may cause serious health hazards (i.e. cancers) which lead to increased morbidity and mortality. The aim of the review was to examine the extent and magnitude of illegal formalin treatment in fish sold in domestic markets of Bangladesh. A systematic review was conducted using conventional databases and non‐conventional approaches to identify the relevant studies. Out of nine studies, eight confirmed the presence of formalin in fish collected from the markets of four main cities. Large and imported fishes were found to be mainly affected. Formalin adulterated fish was reported in seven studies. The fish were tested using a locally developed kit, and the amount of formalin treated fish ranged between 0.5 and 50%. Two other studies used the spectrophotometric method and reported specific formalin levels. The study conducted in Dhaka found mean levels of formalin to be 402.35 mg/kg in imported fishes and 118.60 mg/kg in local fishes which were much higher than the WHO recommended levels. In another study conducted in Mymensingh, formalin levels ranged between 1.4 and 7.3 mg/kg in both marketed and freshly caught pond fishes. The use of accurate, simple, specific and sensitive techniques is therefore highly recommended. The government and other agencies should address the issue as a priority basis by formulating effective policies and programs to safeguard the health of the public.
Increased risk of anxiety among patients with urolithiasis: A nationwide population‐based cohort study
Authors: Lien Chi‐Shun , Huang Chi‐Ping , Chung Chi‐Jung , Lin Cheng‐Li , Chang Chao‐Hsiang
Published: July 2015

Objectives

To investigate whether patients with urolithiasis are at an increased risk of anxiety and depression.

Methods

We used universal insurance claims data in Taiwan from 2000 to 2011 to identify patients with newly diagnosed urolithiasis (n = 32 617) and those without urolithiasis (n = 130 465). Incidences, hazard ratios, and incidence rate ratios of anxiety and depression were determined in both cohorts in terms of baseline demographic characteristics and comorbidities until December 2011.

Results

The urolithiasis cohort yielded a higher incidence of anxiety (11.9 vs 6.91 per 1000 person‐years) with an adjusted hazard ratio of 1.5 (95% confidence interval 1.42–1.57) than the non‐urolithiasis cohort. The urolithiasis cohort also showed a higher incidence of depression (5.79 vs 3.95 per 1000 person‐years) with an adjusted hazard ratio of 1.26 (95% confidence interval 1.18–1.35) than the non‐urolithiasis cohort. Regardless of the patients' baseline comorbidities, patients with urolithiasis showed a higher incidence rate ratio of anxiety and depression than those without urolithiasis (with no comorbidities: adjusted hazard ratio 1.62, 95% confidence interval 1.49–1.76] for anxiety and adjusted hazard ratio 1.37, 95% confidence interval 1.23–1.54 for depression).

Conclusion

Urolithiasis is recurrent, and significantly associated with anxiety and depression. Therefore, urologists should diagnose patients suspected with this disease and provide proper medical care.
Are specialist nurse‐led check flexible cystoscopy services as effective as doctor‐led sessions?
Authors: Smith Thomas , Streeter Edward , Choi William , Evans Hugh , Eddy Benjamin , Krishnan Rajeshwar , Shrotri Nitin
Published: July 2015

The demands on service provision have led to an increasing number of check flexible cystoscopies being performed by urology nurse specialists as opposed to doctors. We aimed to compare the performance of urology nurse specialists, in a nurse‐led service, with doctor‐led sessions. Retrospective case note analysis was performed on patients who required further treatment following their check flexible cystoscopies. Data was collected in two separate 3‐month time periods: first (1 October 2012–31 December 2012) all cases that were performed by doctors, second (1 March 2013–31 September 2013) all cases that were performed by nurse specialists. Details recorded included the findings at check flexible cystoscopy, treatment and initial and subsequent histology results. A total of 137 episodes were included in the study (71 – nurse, 66 – doctor). Correct reporting at initial check cystoscopy with subsequent confirmation of TCC, CIS or dysplasia occurred in 99 of 137 (72.3%) of episodes (55 – nurse, 44 – doctor). Over reporting at initial check flexible cystoscopy with findings later showing any variant of inflammation/cystitis, reactive changes, atypia or no lesion occurred in 38 of 137 (27.7%) episodes (16 – nurse, 22 – doctor). The nurse‐led service correctly reported 55 of 71 (77.5%) episodes and over‐reported 16 of 71 (22.5%). The doctors correctly reported 44 of 66 (66.7%) episodes and over reported 22 of 66 (33.3%). This study provides evidence that nurse led check flexible cystoscopy sessions are comparable in quality to doctor‐led sessions and supports the use of these services. This has clear implications on the delivery of a cost effective service to meet current financial demands.
Surveying patients about their experience with a urinary catheter
Authors: Darbyshire Daniel , Rowbotham Daniel , Grayson Sarka , Taylor Julia , Shackley David
Published: July 2015

About 15–20% of hospital inpatients are catheterized, and it has been estimated that in an average sized hospital 10–15 patients will die each year from catheter‐related sepsis. Reducing catheterization rates or indwell times has been shown to reduce associated sepsis. This study examined patient experience of catheterization; the rationale for the study was to broaden understanding of catheter impact as part of a wider quality improvement agenda. Fifty patients completed a detailed catheter‐experience patient questionnaire. The patients were all inpatients from 17 wards across a range of specialties. Data were sought on demographics, catheter status, experience and their knowledge of and involvement in the catheter care. Fifty percent gender split. Median catheter time was 5 d (range 2 h to long term). Median age 72 years (range 22–92). Thirty‐four percent (n = 17) of patients did not have the process and options discussed before catheterization. Eighteen percent did not know why they were catheterized. Patients experienced leaking (32%), ‘pain’ (26%), inconvenience (26%), embarrassment (24%), blocking (24%) with 8% finding their catheters ‘restrictive’. Fourteen percent felt they could have coped without the catheter. Urinary catheters have a profound and often negative effect on the inpatient experience. This information can help support and empower colleagues to push for less urinary catheter use in the non‐urological inpatient population and start to better understand the patient experience.
Protein kinase C in the immune system: from signalling to chromatin regulation
Authors: Lim Pek Siew , Sutton Christopher Ray , Rao Sudha
Published: July 2015

Protein kinase C (PKC) form a key family of enzymes involved in signalling pathways that specifically phosphorylates substrates at serine/threonine residues. Phosphorylation by PKC is important in regulating a variety of cellular events such as cell proliferation and the regulation of gene expression. In the immune system, PKCs are involved in regulating signal transduction pathways important for both innate and adaptive immunity, ultimately resulting in the expression of key immune genes. PKCs act as mediators during immune cell signalling through the immunological synapse. PKCs are traditionally known to be cytoplasmic signal transducers and are well embedded in the signalling pathways of cells to mediate the cells' response to a stimulus from the plasma membrane to the nucleus. PKCs are also found to transduce signals within the nucleus, a process that is distinct from the cytoplasmic signalling pathway. There is now growing evidence suggesting that PKC can directly regulate gene expression programmes through a non‐traditional role as nuclear kinases. In this review, we will focus on the role of PKCs as key cytoplasmic signal transducers in immune cell signalling, as well as its role in nuclear signal transduction. We will also highlight recent evidence for its newly discovered regulatory role in the nucleus as a chromatin‐associated kinase.
Reflections on Information Systems Journal's thematic composition
Authors: Love James , Hirschheim Rudy
Published: July 2015

This article analyses the scholarly output of Information Systems Journal (ISJ) in relation to its seven peer journals in the Association for Information Systems Senior Scholars' Basket of Eight journals (SSB8) since ISJ's inception in 1991. To do so, cluster analyses are generated using metadata (i.e. titles, keywords and abstracts) from the articles published. The analysis results reveal commonalties and some distinguishing differences between ISJ and its peer journals. The findings illuminate that ISJ has published articles in the area of information systems development at a much higher rate than its counterparts. The analyses also illustrate that ISJ has embraced broader philosophical and methodological underpinnings than other SSB8 journals.
Old and New Cultivars of Soya Bean (Glycine max L.) Subjected to Soil Drying Differ in Abscisic Acid Accumulation, Water Relations Characteristics and Yield
Authors: He J. , Du Y.‐L. , Wang T. , Turner N. C. , Xi Y. , Li F.‐M.
Published: July 2015

Two old (Huangsedadou and Longxixiaohuangpi (LX)) and two new (Jindou 19 (JD) and Zhonghuang 30 (ZH)) soya bean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) cultivars were used to investigate the influence of soil drying on the abscisic acid (ABA) accumulation in leaves, stomatal conductance (gs), leaf water relations, osmotic adjustment (OA), leaf desiccation tolerance, yield and yield components. The greater ABA accumulation was induced by soil drying, which also inducing gs decreased at higher soil water contents (SWC) and leaf relative water content (RWC) significantly decreased at lower SWC in the new soya bean cultivars than in the old soya bean cultivars. The soil water threshold between the value at which stomata began to close and the RWC began to decrease was significantly broader in the new cultivars than in the old cultivars. The new cultivars had significantly higher OA and lower lethal leaf water potential than old cultivars when the soil dried. The old cultivars had greater biomass, but lower grain yield than the new cultivars in well‐watered, moderate stress and severe stress conditions. Thus with soil drying, the new soya bean cultivars demonstrated greater adaptation to drought by inducing greater ABA accumulation, stomatal closure at higher SWC, enhanced OA and better water relations, associated with increased leaf desiccation tolerance, greater water use efficiency and higher yield.
Investigating the impact of a falls prevention community of practice in a residential aged‐care setting: a mixed methods study protocol
Authors: Francis‐Coad Jacqueline , Etherton‐Beer Christopher , Bulsara Caroline , Nobre Debbie , Hill Anne‐Marie
Published: July 2015

Aim

The aim of this study was to facilitate the implementation and operation of a falls prevention Community of Practice in a residential aged‐care organization and evaluate its effect on falls outcomes.

Background

Falls are a substantial concern across the residential aged‐care sector with half its older population falling annually. Preventing falls requires tailoring of current evidence for reducing falls and adoption into daily activity, which is challenging for diversely skilled staff caring for a frailer population. Forming a community of practice could provide staff with the opportunity to share and develop their expertise in falls prevention and innovate change.

Design

A mixed methods design based on a realist approach conducted across 13 residential care facilities (N = 779 beds).

Method

Staff will be invited to become a member of the community of practice with all sites represented. The community of practice will be supported to audit falls prevention activity and identify gaps in practice for intervention. The impact of the community of practice will be evaluated at three levels: individual member level, facility level and organizational level. A pre–post design using a range of standardized measures supported by audits, surveys, focus groups and interviews will determine its effect on falls prevention practice. Falls outcomes will be compared at five time intervals using negative binomial regression and logistic regression. The study is funded 2013–2017.

Conclusion

Findings from this research will assist residential aged‐care providers to understand how to effectively translate evidence about falls prevention into clinical practice.
Blinded by the bright: a lack of congruence between colour morphs, phylogeography and taxonomy for a cosmopolitan Indo‐Pacific butterflyfish, Chaetodon auriga
Authors: DiBattista Joseph D. , Waldrop Ellen , Rocha Luiz A. , Craig Matthew T. , Berumen Michael L. , Bowen Brian W.
Published: July 2015

Aim

We assess genetic differentiation among biogeographical provinces and colour morphs of the threadfin butterflyfish, Chaetodon auriga. This species is among the most broadly distributed butterflyfishes in the world, occurring on reefs from the Red Sea and western Indian Ocean to French Polynesia and Hawai'i. The Red Sea form lacks a conspicuous ‘eye‐spot’ on the dorsal fin, which may indicate an evolutionary distinction.

Location

Red Sea, Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean.

Methods

Specimens were obtained at 17 locations (n = 358) spanning the entire range of this species. The genetic data included 669 base pairs of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) cytochrome b and allele frequencies at six microsatellite loci. Analysis of molecular variance, structure plots, haplotype networks and estimates of population expansion time were used to assess phylogeographical patterns.

Results

Population structure was low overall, but significant and concordant between molecular markers (mtDNA: ΦST = 0.027, P < 0.001; microsatellites: FST = 0.023, P < 0.001). Significant population‐level partitions were only detected at peripheral locations including the Red Sea and Hawai'i. Population expansion events in the Red Sea and Socotra are older (111,940–223,881 years) relative to all other sites (16,343–87,910 years).

Main conclusions

We find little genetic evidence to support an evolutionary partition of a previously proposed Red Sea subspecies. The oldest estimate of population expansion in the Red Sea and adjacent Gulf of Aden indicates a putative refuge in this region during Pleistocene glacial cycles. The finding of population separations at the limits of the range, in the Red Sea and Hawai'i, is consistent with peripheral speciation.
Method for Setting Environmental Targets in Product Development: Incorporating Use‐Phase Impact by Subsystem
Authors: Collado‐Ruiz Daniel , Ostad‐Ahmad‐Ghorabi Hesamedin
Published: July 2015

In order to address environmental aspects during redesign, the product specification must include related targets that are reachable and challenging. To do so, this article presents a stepwise approach for combining benchmarking information and component impact, out of life cycle assessment (LCA) scaling. This approach requires allocating environmental impacts to each subsystem, which is not commonly done for some life cycle phases in LCAs, most particularly for use phases. This article includes a methodology for allocating such impacts. The underlying criterion is avoiding complex calculations, to make the method more agile. This methodology is presented in a full case study of a complex product: a knuckle boom crane. The case study results in the percentage of impact reduction needed to meet the market average or best competitors. In particular, the results show that the cylinders of the crane have a high contribution to environmental impact, not only because of their weight, but also because of the active power consumed to activate them.
Multiple C2 domains transmembrane protein 1 is expressed in CNS neurons and possibly regulates cellular vesicle retrieval and oxidative stress
Authors: Qiu Lifeng , Yu Hanry , Liang Fengyi
Published: July 2015

Multiple C2 domains transmembrane protein 1 (MCTP1) contains two transmembrane regions and three C2 domains of high Ca2+‐binding affinity. Single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of human MCTP1 gene is reportedly associated with bipolar disorder, but expression and function of MCTP1 in the CNS is still largely unknown. We cloned rat MCTP1 isoforms, and studied expression of MCTP1 transcript and protein in the CNS. Subcellular distribution and functional roles of MCTP1 were investigated in cultured primary neurons or PC12 cells by over‐expression, cell imaging, and flow cytometry. MCTP1 immunostaining was seen in both CNS neuronal cell bodies and processes, especially in the hippocampus, dentate gyrus, medial habenular nucleus, amygdala, and selected cerebral and cerebellar cortical areas/layers. Under an electron microscope, MCTP1 immunoreactivity was observed on vesicles in neuronal cell bodies and pre‐synaptic axon terminals. In cultured primary neurons and PC12 cells MCTP1 was detected on selected populations of secretory vesicles and endosomes. MCTP1 over‐expression significantly inhibited neuronal transferrin endocytosis, secretory vesicle retrieval, cell migration, and oxidative stress from glutamate toxicity. Thus MCTP1 might be involved in regulating endocytic recycling of specific CNS neurons and synapses. MCTP1 abnormality might cause altered synaptic vesicle recycling, and thereby lead to vulnerability to neuropsychiatric diseases.

image

MCTP1 in the CNS is a neuronal vesicle/endosome protein. Mutation or expression variation of MCTP1 has been associated with neuropsychiatric disorders. The present in vivo and in vitro imaging studies demonstrated vesicular localization of MCTP1 on the endocytic recycling pathway. Functional assays indicated involvement of MCTP1 in multiple cellular functions including endocytosis, cell migration and anti‐excitotoxicity in neuronal cells.
Evolutionary history inferred from the de novo assembly of a nonmodel organism, the blue‐eyed black lemur
Authors: Meyer Wynn K. , Venkat Aarti , Kermany Amir R. , van de Geijn Bryce , Zhang Sidi , Przeworski Molly
Published: July 2015

Lemurs, the living primates most distantly related to humans, demonstrate incredible diversity in behaviour, life history patterns and adaptive traits. Although many lemur species are endangered within their native Madagascar, there is no high‐quality genome assembly from this taxon, limiting population and conservation genetic studies. One critically endangered lemur is the blue‐eyed black lemur Eulemur flavifrons. This species is fixed for blue irises, a convergent trait that evolved at least four times in primates and was subject to positive selection in humans, where 5′ regulatory variation of OCA2 explains most of the brown/blue eye colour differences. We built a de novo genome assembly for E. flavifrons, providing the most complete lemur genome to date, and a high confidence consensus sequence for close sister species E. macaco, the (brown‐eyed) black lemur. From diversity and divergence patterns across the genomes, we estimated a recent split time of the two species (160 Kya) and temporal fluctuations in effective population sizes that accord with known environmental changes. By looking for regions of unusually low diversity, we identified potential signals of directional selection in E. flavifrons at MITF, a melanocyte development gene that regulates OCA2 and has previously been associated with variation in human iris colour, as well as at several other genes involved in melanin biosynthesis in mammals. Our study thus illustrates how whole‐genome sequencing of a few individuals can illuminate the demographic and selection history of nonmodel species.
Identification and characterization of cis‐ and trans‐acting elements involved in prophage induction in Streptococcus thermophilus J34
Authors: Koberg Sabrina , Mohamed Mazhar Desouki Ali , Faulhaber Katharina , Neve Horst , Heller Knut J.
Published: July 2015

The genetic switch region of temperate Streptococcus thermophilus phage TP‐J34 contains two divergently oriented promoters and several predicted operator sites. It separates lytic cycle‐promoting genes from those promoting lysogeny. A polycistronic transcript comprises the genes coding for repressor Crh, metalloproteinase‐motif protein Rir and superinfection exclusion lipoprotein Ltp. Weak promoters effecting monocistronic transcripts were localized for ltp and int (encoding integrase) by Northern blot and 5′‐RACE‐PCR. These transcripts appeared in lysogenic as well as lytic state. A polycistronic transcript comprising genes coh (encoding Cro homolog), ant (encoding putative antirepressor), orf7, orf8 and orf9 was only detected in the lytic state. Four operator sites, of which three were located in the intergenic regions between crh and coh, and one between coh and ant, were identified by competition electromobility shift assays. Cooperative binding of Crh to two operator sites immediately upstream of coh could be demonstrated. Coh was shown to bind to the operator closest to crh only. Oligomerization was proven by cross‐linking Crh by glutaraldehyde. Knock‐out of rir revealed a key role in prophage induction. Rir and Crh were shown to form a complex in solution and Rir prevented binding of Crh to its operator sites.
Investigation into FlhFG reveals distinct features of FlhF in regulating flagellum polarity in Shewanella oneidensis
Authors: Gao Tong , Shi Miaomiao , Ju Lili , Gao Haichun
Published: July 2015

Rod‐shaped bacterial cells are polarized, with many organelles confined to a polar cellular site. In polar flagellates, FlhF and FlhG, a multiple‐domain (B‐N‐G) GTPase and a MinD‐like ATPase respectively, function as a cognate pair to regulate flagellar localization and number as revealed in Vibrio and Pseudomonas species. In this study, we show that FlhFG of Shewanella oneidensis (SoFlhFG), a monotrichous γ‐proteobacterium renowned for respiratory diversity, also play an important role in the flagellar polar placement and number control. Despite this, SoFlhFG exhibit distinct features that are not observed in the characterized counterparts. Most strikingly, the G domain of SoFlhF determines the polar placement, contrasting the N domain of the Vibrio cholerae FlhF. The SoFlhF N domain in fact counteracts the function of the G domain with respect to the terminal targeting in the absence of the B domain. We further show that GTPase activity of SoFlhF is essential for motility but not positioning. Overall, our results suggest that mechanisms underlying the polar placement of organelles appear to be diverse, even for evolutionally relatively conserved flagellum.
Schenker and Bach's French Suite in E major
Authors: BENT IAN
Published: July 2015

The Oster Collection in the New York Public Library has some 43 documents, comprising 83 written pages of fragmentary jottings, analytical sketches and full‐scale layered voice‐leading graphs, relating to J. S. Bach's French Suite No. 6 in E major – all of which are tabulated and briefly described here. Schenker's analytical work on the middleground structures of its eight movements, in which descending linear progressions and the technique of reaching‐over are prominent, are traced here. This work shows that the theorist was for a long time undecided about the primary tone of the Sarabande.

 Although none of these documents is dated, Schenker's diary and lesson‐book for 1927–8 suggest that at least some of them relate to this teaching year. Moreover, because in May 1927 Schenker had resumed work, after several years’ stagnation, on Free Composition, and because some of the materials for the Suite were filed in folders that contained materials for this work, there is a presumptive connection between this analytical activity and his final theoretical work, whose supplementary volume includes no fewer than thirteen examples from the Suite.
Impact of parathyroidectomy on survival among haemodialysis patients: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Li Weidong , Zhang Manli , Du Shutong , Yu Yanjie , Liu Jianfeng , Zhang Ling , Yao Li
Published: July 2015

Aim

We evaluated whether parathyroidectomy (PTX) was associated with survival of dialysis patients.

Methods

In a cohort study with one year follow‐up, data from 146 haemodialysis patients from a hospital were analyzed. We compared the baseline data between patients receiving PTX surgery and those who had not undergone PTX. The Cox proportional hazards regression was used to examine the effect of PTX.

Results

Patients who had received PTX surgery were more likely to be older, have longer duration of dialysis, higher ultrafiltration rate, C‐reactive protein (CRP), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and lower albumin compared with those who had not receive PTX. During 1 year follow‐up, 21 (17.1%) patients died, of whom seven died from cerebrovascular events, 10 died from cardiovascular disease, and four died from infection. The mortality was 9.4% in the PTX group and 17.3% in the control group. The PTX group had a significantly lower risk of all‐cause mortality than the control group (P = 0.005). There was a significantly lower risk of all‐cause mortality in the PTX group compared with the non‐PTX group (HR = 0.93, 95%CI: 0.89–0.97). The lower risk (HR = 0.92, 95%CI: 0.85–0.98) of PTX group was not changed after adjusting potential factors. Our results also suggested that this relationship was independent of many potential confounding factors.

Conclusion

Parathyroidectomy was related to significant reduction in all‐cause among patients with severe SHPT. PTX may be considered as a matter of priority, from which dialysis patients would benefit.
Telling tales: online comic and gripe story‐sharing by service workers about difficult customers
Authors: Sayers Janet Grace , Fachira Ira
Published: July 2015

The article extends previous research on the storying practices of service workers, workplace humour as resistance, and workers’ autonomous use of social media. Discussion strings from two hairstylist forum storylines, exemplifying comic and tragic story‐sharing about difficult customers, were analysed using Gabriel's notion of story‐work. Processes of coping, entertainment, identity‐construction and learning are clearly evident in the discussion strings and social media is confirmed as a ‘new’ terrain for the enactment of employee agency. Findings emphasize that service workers are engaged in contradictory and ambiguous relations of resistance and accommodation as they learn how to deal with difficult customers. The article's contribution is to show how service workers share their fears and anxieties about difficult customers through storying and humour in generative dialogical poietic processes in social media. Further research is suggested.
‘Meet the New Boss … Same as the Old boss?’ Technology, toil and tension in the agrofuel frontier
Authors: Garvey Brian , Tyfield David , de Mello Leonardo Freire
Published: July 2015

Agrofuels are increasingly sourced and sold as a socially and environmentally beneficial solution to oil dependence. The promotion of sugar‐derived ethanol as a substitute for petroleum has thus been key to state development and international trade policies by Brazil and the European Union, respectively, and subsequent investment by leading energy and food transnational corporations has transformed socio‐spatial relations in the new sites of production. Brazilian rural worker testimonies, however, point to large‐scale labour exclusion rather than reform and a deepening, rather than disruption, of historic power inequalities in the sector. Labour contestation challenges a converging institutional discourse of responsible technological innovation and social upgrading associated with emerging commodity chains and the ‘green’ economy. Although corporate and statutory response has been market‐orientated certification and ‘more technology’ the idea of the ‘techno‐institutional fix’ provides a power relation‐attentive analysis that invites the further exploration of socially committed alternatives to food and energy production.
Bacteria and archaea paleomicrobiology of the dental calculus: a review
Authors: Huynh H.T.T. , Verneau J. , Levasseur A. , Drancourt M. , Aboudharam G.
Published: July 2015

Dental calculus, a material observed in the majority of adults worldwide, emerged as a source for correlating paleomicrobiology with human health and diet. This mini review of 48 articles on the paleomicrobiology of dental calculus over 7550 years discloses a secular core microbiota comprising nine bacterial phyla – Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, TM7, Synergistetes, Chloroflexi, Fusobacteria, Spirochetes – and one archaeal phylum Euryarchaeota; and some accessory microbiota that appear and disappear according to time frame. The diet residues and oral microbes, including bacteria, archaea, viruses and fungi, consisting of harmless organisms and pathogens associated with local and systemic infections have been found trapped in ancient dental calculus by morphological approaches, immunolabeling techniques, isotope analyses, fluorescent in situ hybridization, DNA‐based approaches, and protein‐based approaches. These observations led to correlation of paleomicrobiology, particularly Streptococcus mutans and archaea, with past human health and diet.
Floral nectar production and nectary structure of a bee‐pollinated shrub from Neotropical savanna
Authors: Guimarães E. , Nogueira A. , Machado S. R.
Published: July 2015

Biotic pollination is critical for tropical ecosystem functioning, and nectar plays an essential role as it represents the main trophic resource for pollinators. Nevertheless, little is known about the mechanisms that underlie its production, which is essential for understanding the basis of nectar‐mediated interactions in ecological and evolutionary approaches. Therefore, this study explores the relationship between the nectar secretion pattern and nectary functional changes in Anemopaegma album, a bee‐pollinated species. We analysed the pattern of nectar production under field conditions and investigated floral nectary structural changes in two different developmental stages using light, transmission and scanning electron microscopy. We measured 30.95 ± 23.02 μl (mean ± SD, n = 30) of nectar accumulated inside the nectar chamber (29.26 ± 3.48% sucrose equivalents) at the moment of flower opening. Nectar removal did not influence the pattern of floral nectar production in terms of volume or total sugar but reduced the concentration of the nectar produced during the first 24 h of anthesis. The nectary consisted of an epidermis, a nectary parenchyma and a subnectary parenchyma supplied only by phloem. Starch grains decreased in size and abundance from the subnectary parenchyma toward the epidermis. We observed the degradation of starch grains and incorporation of amyloplasts into vacuoles at the pre‐anthesis stage as well as the transformation of amyloplasts into elaioplasts during anthesis. Nectar secretion was continuous during the A. album flower life span, which was related to the functional features of its floral nectary, especially the presence of starch stored in the parenchyma.
Monte Carlo Simulation Experiments for Engineering Optimisation
Authors: Anderson Robert , Wei Zhou , Cox Ian , Moore Malcolm , Kussener Florence
Published: July 2015

Design of Experiments (DoE) is widely used in design, manufacturing and quality management. The resulting data is usually analysed with multiple linear regression to generate polynomial equations that describe the relationship between process inputs and outputs. These equations enable us to understand how input values affect the predicted value of one or more outputs and find good set points for the inputs. However, to develop robust manufacturing processes, we also need to understand how variation in these inputs appears as variation in the output. This understanding allows us to define set points and control tolerances for the inputs that will keep the outputs within their required specification windows. Tolerance analysis provides a powerful way of finding input settings and ranges that minimise output variation to produce a process that is robust. In many practical applications, tolerance analysis exploits Monte Carlo simulation of the polynomial model generated from DoE’s. This paper briefly describes tolerance analysis and then shows how Monte Carlo simulation experiments using space-filling designs can be used to find the input settings that result in a robust process. Using this approach, engineers can quickly and easily identify the key inputs responsible for transferring undesired variation to their process outputs and identify the set points and ranges that make their process as robust as possible. If the process is not sufficiently robust, they can rationally investigate different strategies to improve it. A case study approach is used to aid explanation and understanding.
Cardiovascular and respiratory outcome of preconditioned rats submitted to chronic intermittent hypoxia
Authors: Perim Raphael R. , Bonagamba Leni G. H. , Machado Benedito H.
Published: July 2015

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

What are the effects of hypoxic preconditioning upon the cardiovascular and respiratory responses to subsequent episodes of chronic intermittent hypoxia?

What is the main finding and its importance?

The cardiovascular and respiratory responses to a chronic intermittent hypoxia protocol were not altered by previous exposure to intermittent or sustained hypoxia. These findings show that preconditioning to hypoxia produced neither facilitation nor protection from the cardiovascular and respiratory dysfunctions in response to subsequent episodes of chronic intermittent hypoxia in juvenile rats.

Rats exposed to chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) develop hypertension, which is associated with changes in the coupling of sympathetic and respiratory activities. In this study, we hypothesized that previous preconditioning to intermittent or sustained hypoxia would affect cardiovascular and respiratory changes produced by subsequent protocols of CIH. To test this hypothesis, male Wistar rats were preconditioned to either 10 days of CIH or 24 h of sustained hypoxia (SH). After the initial exposure to hypoxia, rats were maintained in normoxic conditions for 15 days before a new protocol of CIH during 10 days. Cardiovascular and respiratory variables obtained from groups of preconditioned rats were compared with a group of rats exposed to CIH for the first time and also to a group of rats maintained in normoxic conditions throughout the period of time of the respective preconditioning protocol. The data show that CIH produced a similar increase in arterial pressure and heart rate in both CIH and SH preconditioning protocols. Respiratory parameters during basal conditions were also not affected by preconditioning to either CIH or SH. We conclude that previous exposure to CIH or SH preconditioning does not facilitate or prevent the cardiovascular changes produced by CIH.
Quasi-Two-Dimensional Numerical Analysis of Fast Transient Flows Considering Non-Newtonian Effects
Authors: Tazraei Pedram , Riasi Alireza
Published: July 2015

In this study, the difference between laminar fast transient flow of shear-thinning liquids and that of Newtonian liquids under similar conditions is numerically studied. Since the literature appears to lack fast transient flow investigation of non-Newtonian fluids, this work addresses features of those flows. In this way, the Newton–Kantorovich method is implemented to linearize nonlinear shear stress term available in the characteristic equations. The verification and validation of the solution are carried out in detail. The results show that the non-Newtonian behavior of fluids has significant influence on the velocity and shear stress profiles and also on the magnitude of pressure head and wall shear stress.
Design and Manufacturing Functionally Gradient Material Objects With an Off the Shelf Three-Dimensional Printer: Challenges and Solutions
Authors: Garland Anthony , Fadel Georges
Published: July 2015

This paper presents the challenges and solutions encountered while designing and then printing functionally gradient material (FGM) objects using an off the shelf fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printer. The printer, Big Builder Dual-Feed Extruder from 3dprinter4u, Noordwijkerhout, The Netherlands, has the unique design of extruding two different filaments out of one nozzle. By controlling the rate at which the two filaments are pulled into the melt chamber, FGM objects can be printed. Software challenges associated with process planning required to print an FGM object are solved by showing a method for printing a discretized gradient and by designing an open-loop control mechanism for the extruder motors. A design method is proposed that models an object using a level-set function (LSF) with a material gradient. Instead of merely identifying the boundaries of the object, the level set also models the material gradient within the object. This representation method along with a genetic algorithm finds an optimal design for an FGM cantilever beam that is then printed on the FDM printer. The model and genetic algorithm are also used to solve a standard topology optimization problem. The results are compared to a similar FGM topology optimization method in the literature. All the codes for this paper are made open source to facilitate future research.
Effects of Waves and Currents on Extreme Loads on a Jacket
Authors: Bruserud Kjersti , Haver Sverre
Published: July 2015

In lack of simultaneous data of metocean parameters such as wind, waves, and currents, Norwegian design regulations presently recommend a conservative combination of metocean parameters for estimation of characteristic metocean loads on offshore structures. A simplified parametric load model for a jacket, based on waves and currents, is assumed. Several approaches to load estimation are investigated and the following are considered: different averaging length of extreme currents, the effect of peak-over-threshold approach for estimation of extreme wave and currents compared to all-sea states approach and extreme load estimation directly from a load time series. When compared to the recommended approach, all other approaches yield a reduced estimated characteristic metocean load. The purpose of this study is to indicate the possible conservatism in the Norwegian design regulations for estimation of quasi-static loads on a jacket. The results are intended to be illustrative and not suitable for use in specific design calculations.
A top-notch dilemma: The complex role of NOTCH signaling in osteoarthritis
Authors: Ratneswaran Anusha , Beier Frank
Published: July 2015

Whether NOTCH signaling induces maintenance or degradation of joint cartilage depends on signal strength and duration.