bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy-loss magnetic chiral dichroism study of epitaxial MnAs film on GaAs(001)
Authors: Fu X. , Warot-Fonrose B. , Arras R. , Demaille D. , Eddrief M. , Etgens V. , Serin V.
Published: August 2015

The room-temperature ferromagnetic behavior of MnAs/GaAs(001) thin film has been locally explored by Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM). We first differentiated hexagonal α-MnAs and quasi-hexagonal β-MnAs which are very similar in atomic structure by electron diffraction. Local magnetic moment information of the identified α-MnAs was extracted from manganese-L2,3 edges using Energy-loss Magnetic Circular Dichroism technique and the ratio of orbital to spin magnetic moment was measured. In this experiment, atomic structure identification, chemical analysis, and magnetic moment measurement were simultaneously achieved at high spatial resolution in TEM, thus providing a potential method for in-situ study of local properties of multiphase magnetic materials.
Oxidation of GaSb(100) and its control studied by scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy
Authors: Mäkelä J. , Tuominen M. , Yasir M. , Kuzmin M. , Dahl J. , Punkkinen M. P. J. , Laukkanen P. , Kokko K. , Wallace R. M.
Published: August 2015

Atomic-scale knowledge and control of oxidation of GaSb(100), which is a potential interface for energy-efficient transistors, are still incomplete, largely due to an amorphous structure of GaSb(100) oxides. We elucidate these issues with scanning-tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy. The unveiled oxidation-induced building blocks cause defect states above Fermi level around the conduction-band edge. By interconnecting the results to previous photoemission findings, we suggest that the oxidation starts with substituting second-layer Sb sites by oxygen. Adding small amount of indium on GaSb(100), resulting in a (4 × 2)-In reconstruction, before oxidation produces a previously unreported, crystalline oxidized layer of (1 × 3)-O free of gap states.
Spontaneous formation of circular and vortex ferroelectric domain structure in hexagonal YMnO3 and YMn0.9Fe0.1O3 prepared by low temperature solution synthesis
Authors: Harunsani M. H. , Li J. , Qin Y. B. , Tian H. T. , Li J. Q. , Yang H. X. , Walton R. I.
Published: August 2015

We report an experimental study of the domain structure of ferroelectric YMnO3 and YMn0.9Fe0.1O3 using polycrystalline samples prepared by direct hydrothermal crystallisation at 240 °C, well below their structural phase transition temperatures. Powder X-ray diffraction shows the expected P63cm space group for both samples with an increase in a and a small decrease in c with Fe incorporation, consistent with an adjustment of MnO5 tilting, while XANES spectra at the Mn and Fe K edges show the oxidation state of both metals are maintained at +3 in the doped sample. High resolution TEM shows that curved stripe, annular and vortex domains can all be observed in the YMnO3 crystals, proving that the structural phase transition is not the only driving force for the occurrence of the annular and vortex domains. Furthermore, the absence of the annular and vortex domains in YMn0.9Fe0.1O3 indicates that the tilting state of MnO5 bipyramids plays an important role in the domain formation. Atomic resolution STEM images confirm that the ferroelectric domain walls correspond to structural antiphase boundaries similar to the crystals made via high temperature solid-state reactions.
Chronicling Long‐Term Predator Responses to a Shifting Forage Base in Chesapeake Bay: An Energetics Approach
Authors: Overton Anthony S. , Griffin Jennifer C. , Margraf F. Joseph , May Eric B. , Hartman Kyle J.
Published: August 2015

The population of Striped Bass Morone saxatilis in Chesapeake Bay has increased significantly since the 1980s because of management efforts while the relative abundance of some key prey fish has declined since the 1970s. We examined the trophic interactions and prey consumption patterns of Striped Bass in Chesapeake Bay to determine how Striped Bass have responded to changing prey resources. Seasonal diet, growth, and thermal data were collected from 1955 to 1959, 1990 to 1992, and 1998 to 2001; these data were coupled with a bioenergetics model approach to characterize temporal patterns in prey consumption for Striped Bass. The estimates were compared across each period to build a historical prey consumption profile from 1955 to 2001. Prey consumption dynamics for Striped Bass have changed dramatically between 1955 and 2001. In general, Striped Bass in the early and late 1990s consumed less Atlantic Menhaden Brevoortia tyranus and more Bay Anchovy Anchoa mitchilli than during the 1950s. The largest differences in consumption were observed in the younger age‐classes. During 1998–2001, age‐1 and age‐2 Striped Bass consumed, respectively, 15.5 and 11.9 times less Atlantic Menhaden than during the 1950sand 12.2 and 7.2 less than during 1990–1992. Bay Anchovy were almost absent in the diet of bass age 3 and older during the 1950s but were consumed by the age‐3+ group during 1990–1992 and to a greater extent during 1998–2001. Age‐3+ Striped Bass during 1998–2001, on average, consumed twice as much Bay Anchovy than during 1990–1992. Blue crab Callinectes sappidus were consumed only by age 2 in the 1950s and 1990–1992 and by ages 2 and older in 1998–2001. Age‐2 bass consumed 8.8 more blue crab in 1990–1992 and 7.5 times more in 1998–2001 than during the 1950s. The patterns in the consumption of Atlantic Menhaden coincided with increased consumption of Bay Anchovy and blue crab, possibly as a result of the declines in Atlantic Menhaden relative abundance in Chesapeake Bay. The difference in consumption was also evident in the total energy consumed; age‐1 and age‐6 Striped Bass consumed 1.6 times more energy in 1955–1959 than during 1998–2001. Our research demonstrates how the elements of Striped Bass feeding, including diet composition, amount of food eaten, and consumption rates, are affected by prey resources.
An historical geographical analysis of South Africa's system of accumulation: 1652–1994
Authors: van der Merwe Justin
Published: August 2015

This paper attempts to reconceptualise from an historical perspective South Africa's regional political economy. Adopting a broadly materialist approach, this paper illustrates how South Africa's relationship with the region can be understood as a system of accumulation based on what may be called a government–business–media (GBM) complex. The analysis follows a critical rewriting of South Africa's regional relations until the attainment of democracy, as seen through the concept of the GBM complex. By so doing, this paper seeks to lay the foundations for an alternative understanding of South Africa's political economy, but also aims to contribute to the literature on, and theorisation of, ‘complexes’.
Efficient enzymatic production of rebaudioside A from stevioside
Authors: Wang Yu , Chen Liangliang , Li Yan , Li Yangyang , Yan Ming , Chen Kequan , Hao Ning , Xu Lin
Published: August 2015

Stevioside and rebaudioside A are the chief diterpene glycosides present in the leaves of Stevia rebaudiana. Rebaudioside A imparts a desirable sweet taste, while stevioside produces a residual bitter aftertaste. Enzymatic synthesis of rebaudioside A from stevioside can increase the ratio of rebaudioside A to stevioside in steviol glycoside products, providing a conceivable strategy to improve the organoleptic properties of steviol glycoside products. Here, we demonstrate the efficient conversion of stevioside to rebaudioside A by coupling the activities of recombinant UDP-glucosyltransferase UGT76G1 from S. rebaudiana and sucrose synthase AtSUS1 from Arabidopsis thaliana. The conversion occurred via regeneration of UDP-glucose by AtSUS1. UDP was applicable as the initial material instead of UDP-glucose for UDP-glucose recycling. The amount of UDP could be greatly reduced in the reaction mixture. Rebaudioside A yield in 30 h with 2.4 mM stevioside, 7.2 mM sucrose, and 0.006 mM UDP was 78%.
Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) is reduced to pyrroloquinoline quinol (PQQH2) by vitamin C, and PQQH2 produced is recycled to PQQ by air oxidation in buffer solution at pH 7.4
Authors: Mukai Kazuo , Ouchi Aya , Nagaoka Shin-ichi , Nakano Masahiko , Ikemoto Kazuto
Published: August 2015

Measurements of the reaction of sodium salt of pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQNa2) with vitamin C (Vit C) were performed in phosphate-buffered solution (pH 7.4) at 25 °C under nitrogen atmosphere, using UV–vis spectrophotometry. The absorption spectrum of PQQNa2 decreased in intensity due to the reaction with Vit C and was changed to that of pyrroloquinoline quinol (PQQH2, a reduced form of PQQ). One molecule of PQQ was reduced by two molecules of Vit C producing a molecule of PQQH2 in the buffer solution. PQQH2, thus produced, was recycled to PQQ due to air oxidation. PQQ and Vit C coexist in many biological systems, such as vegetables, fruits, as well as in human tissues. The results obtained suggest that PQQ is reduced by Vit C and functions as an antioxidant in biological systems, because it has been reported that PQQH2 shows very high free-radical scavenging and singlet-oxygen quenching activities in buffer solutions.
Connective tissue adaptations in the fingers of performance sport climbers
Authors: Schreiber Tonja , Allenspach Philippe , Seifert Burkhardt , Schweizer Andreas
Published: August 2015

This study investigates the changes of the connective tissue in the fingers of performance sport climbers resulting after a minimum of 15 years of climbing. Evaluation was performed by ultrasonography on the palmar side of the fingers (Dig) II–V to measure the thickness of the A2 and A4 annular pulleys, the flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) and profundus (FDP) tendons and the palmar plates (PP's) of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) as well as distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint in sagittal and axial direction. Totally, 31 experienced male sport climbers (mean age 37y, 30–48y grade French scale median 8b, range 7b+ to 9a+) participated in the study. The control‐group consisted of 20 male non‐climbers (age 37y, 30–51y). The A2 and A4 pulleys in climbers were all significantly thicker (A2 Dig III 62%, Dig IV 69%; A4 Dig III 69%, Dig IV 76%) as compared to non‐climbers pulleys. All PP's of the DIP joints were also significantly thicker, particularly at Dig III and IV (76 and 67%), whereas the PP's at PIP joints were only scarce significant for three joints. Differences of the diameter of the flexor tendons were less distinct (1–21%) being significant only over the middle phalanx. High load to the fingers of rock climbers after a minimum of 15 years of climbing years induced considerable connective tissue adaptions in the fingers, most distinct at the flexor tendon pulleys and joint capsule (PP) of the DIP joints and well detectable by ultrasound.
Nonlinear instability and intermittent nature of magnetic reconnection in solar chromosphere
Authors: Singh K. A. P. , Hillier Andrew , Isobe Hiroaki , Shibata Kazunari
Published: August 2015

The recent observations of Singh et al. (2012, ApJ, 759, 33) have shown multiple plasma ejections and the intermittent nature of magnetic reconnection in the solar chromosphere, highlighting the need for fast reconnection to occur in highly collisional plasma. However, the physical process through which fast magnetic reconnection occurs in partially ionized plasma, like the solar chromosphere, is still poorly understood. It has been shown that for sufficiently high magnetic Reynolds numbers, Sweet–Parker current sheets can become unstable leading to tearing mode instability and plasmoid formation, but when dealing with a partially ionized plasma the strength of coupling between the ions and neutrals plays a fundamental role in determining the dynamics of the system. We propose that as the reconnecting current sheet thins and the tearing instability develops, plasmoid formation passes through strongly, intermediately, and weakly coupled (or decoupled) regimes, with the time scale for the tearing mode instability depending on the frictional coupling between ions and neutrals. We present calculations for the relevant time scales for fractal tearing in all three regimes. We show that as a result of the tearing mode instability and the subsequent non-linear instability due to the plasmoid-dominated reconnection, the Sweet–Parker current sheet tends to have a fractal-like structure, and when the chromospheric magnetic field is sufficiently strong the tearing instability can reach down to kinetic scales, which are hypothesized to be necessary for fast reconnection.
Analysis of the Molecular Dialogue Between Gray Mold (Botrytis cinerea) and Grapevine (Vitis vinifera) Reveals a Clear Shift in Defense Mechanisms During Berry Ripening
Authors: Kelloniemi Jani , Trouvelot Sophie , Héloir Marie-Claire , Simon Adeline , Dalmais Bérengère , Frettinger Patrick , Cimerman Agnès , Fermaud Marc , Roudet Jean , Baulande Sylvain , Bruel Christophe , Choquer Mathias , Couvelard Linhdavanh , Duthieuw Mathilde , Ferrarini Alberto , Flors Victor , Le Pêcheur Pascal , Loisel Elise , Morgant Guillaume , Poussereau Nathalie , Pradier Jean-Marc , Rascle Christine , Trdá Lucie , Poinssot Benoit , Viaud Muriel
Published: August 2015

Mature grapevine berries at the harvesting stage (MB) are very susceptible to the gray mold fungus Botrytis cinerea, while veraison berries (VB) are not. We conducted simultaneous microscopic and transcriptomic analyses of the pathogen and the host to investigate the infection process developed by B. cinerea on MB versus VB, and the plant defense mechanisms deployed to stop the fungus spreading. On the pathogen side, our genome-wide transcriptomic data revealed that B. cinerea genes upregulated during infection of MB are enriched in functional categories related to necrotrophy, such as degradation of the plant cell wall, proteolysis, membrane transport, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and detoxification. Quantitative-polymerase chain reaction on a set of representative genes related to virulence and microscopic observations further demonstrated that the infection is also initiated on VB but is stopped at the penetration stage. On the plant side, genome-wide transcriptomic analysis and metabolic data revealed a defense pathway switch during berry ripening. In response to B. cinerea inoculation, VB activated a burst of ROS, the salicylate-dependent defense pathway, the synthesis of the resveratrol phytoalexin, and cell-wall strengthening. On the contrary, in infected MB, the jasmonate-dependent pathway was activated, which did not stop the fungal necrotrophic process.
Melanoma survival: sex does matter, but we do not know how
Authors: Crocetti Emanuele , Fancelli Laura , Manneschi Gianfranco , Caldarella Adele , Pimpinelli Nicola , Chiarugi Alessandra , Nardini Paolo , Buzzoni Carlotta
Published: August 2015

The objective of this study was to provide further insights into the prognostic role of female sex in skin melanoma. The prognostic effect of sex in a population-based case series of 3900 skin melanomas in central Italy has been evaluated considering the possible confounding role of many demographic and clinical variables (age, period of diagnosis, Breslow’s thickness, Clark level, ulceration, lymph node status, metastasis, histological type, skin site, and pathological T and N). Multiple imputations, according to chained equations, have been used for imputing incomplete values. A Cox proportional hazards model on the risk of death caused by melanoma was fitted. Univariate and multivariate effects of sex and of other variables were computed. The 5-year cause-specific survival was 87% (95% confidence interval: 86–89%) for women and 80% (78–82%) for men. Women had higher rates at any time since diagnosis. After adjustment for other confounders, women had a 34% reduced risk compared with men of dying from skin melanoma (hazard ratio=0.66, 95% confidence interval: 0.56–0.79). The present study confirmed a strong protective effect of female sex on skin melanoma mortality. The protective factor is still unknown.
Effects of a media campaign on resuscitation performance of bystanders: a manikin study
Authors: Plunien Rainer , Eberhard Carolin , Dinse-Lambracht Alexander , Struck Manuel F. , Muth Claus-Martin , Winkler Bernd E.
Published: August 2015

Objective

Cardiac arrest is associated with a poor outcome if cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is delayed. Nevertheless, CPR performance by laypersons in witnessed cardiac arrest is frequently poor. The present study evaluated the effect of a media campaign on CPR performance.

Participants and methods

CPR performance of 1000 individuals who did not have any medical background was evaluated using a resuscitation manikin. The media campaign consisted of flyers, posters, and electronic advertisement. Five hundred individuals were evaluated before the media campaign and 500 individuals after the media campaign. Age and male/female ratio were comparable within each of the groups. Premedia campaign performance was compared with postmedia campaign performance with respect to chest compressions and ventilation metrics.

Results

Chest compression depth and total compression work were significantly higher after the media campaign: median depth 51 mm postcampaign versus 45 mm precampaign (P<0.001), median cumulative compression work postcampaign 4176 versus 2462 mm precampaign (P<0.001). Tidal volumes and ventilation work were significantly lower following the media campaign, but did not differ between participants who had acknowledged exposure to the campaign and those who did not. Ventilation performance was generally poor across the two groups both before and after the media campaign.

Conclusion

A simple and cost-efficient media campaign appears to enhance the performance of chest compressions. Ventilation performance and the rate of CPR performance were not increased by the campaign.
Mycobacterium Avium Complex Septic Arthritis in a Patient Treated by Infliximab
Authors: Chalhoub Nathalie , Georgescu Claudiu , Altorok Nezam
Published: August 2015

Infliximab is one of the TNF-α inhibitors, a class of medications that made a revolution in treatment of rheumatic diseases especially rheumatoid arthritis. The activation of tuberculosis and atypical mycobacterial infections has been described in the setting of TNF-α inhibitor therapy, but septic arthritis relating to this treatment has not yet been reported in previous literature. We describe a 50-year-old woman with dermatomyositis who developed Mycobacterium Avium Complex septic arthritis, while being treated with infliximab for active skin disease. This case highlights an important complication related to therapy with TNF-α inhibitors.
Michael John Robert Fasham. 29 May 1942 — 7 June 2008
Authors: Anderson Thomas R. , Bryden Harry L.
Published: August 2015

Professor Michael Fasham played a pioneering role in the development of marine ecosystem models for the study of nutrient and carbon cycling in the ocean. He is particularly celebrated for his famous Fasham–Ducklow–McKelvie model, which was the first of its kind to separate new and regenerated forms of nutrient, as well as including microbial recycling pathways. Fasham's models provided key understanding of the links between primary production, carbon cycling and export (of organic matter from the surface to deep ocean) based on both deep and insightful parameterization inspired by his many collaborations with leading experimental and field biologists of the day, and by his expert use of data for model calibration and validation. He had the ability to see the big picture, linking observation and models to achieve a unified understanding of system dynamics. As well as the direct contributions of his own science, Fasham played a pivotal role in steering the international scientific agenda, notably his leadership of the Joint Global Ocean Flux Study which had the aim of understanding ocean carbon cycling and sinks via the coordination of extensive field programmes, synthesis and modelling. He will be remembered by those who knew him for his openness, enthusiasm and modesty, a man who was fun to know and to work with and who loved the thrill of scientific adventure and discovery.
Mucilaginibacter ginsengisoli sp. nov., isolated from a ginseng-cultivated soil
Authors: Ahn Jae-Hyung , Kim Byoung-chan , Joa Jae-Ho , Kim Soo-Jin , Song Jaekyeong , Kwon Soon-Wo , Weon Hang-Yeon
Published: August 2015

A dark-pink-coloured bacterial strain, B4Y-8T, was isolated from a soil cultivated with ginseng. The 16S rRNA gene sequence of this strain showed highest similarity with Mucilaginibacter litoreus BR-18T (96.8 %), Mucilaginibacter lutimaris BR-3T (96.6 %) and Mucilaginibacter defluvii A5T (96.2 %) among the type strains of species of the genus Mucilaginibacter. Strain B4Y-8T was a strictly aerobic, Gram-stain-negative, non-motile, short-rod-shaped bacterium producing a large amount of extracellular polymeric substance. The strain grew at 10–35 °C (optimum, 25 °C), at pH 3.0–11.0 (optimum, pH 7.0) and in the presence of 0–1 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 0 %). The DNA G+C content of strain B4Y-8T was 49.0 mol%. It contained menaquinone 7 (MK-7) as the major isoprenoid quinone, and summed feature 3 (C16 : 1ω6c and/or C16 : 1ω7c) and iso-C15 : 0 as the major fatty acids. On the basis of evidence from the present polyphasic taxonomic study, strain B4Y-8T should be classified as representing a novel species of the genus Mucilaginibacter, for which the name Mucilaginibacter ginsengisoli sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is B4Y-8T ( = KACC 18152T = JCM 30759T).
Paenibacillus kyungheensis sp. nov., isolated from flowers of magnolia
Authors: Siddiqi Muhammad Zubair , Siddiqi Muhammad Hanif , Im Wan Taek , Kim Yeon-Ju , Yang Deok-Chun
Published: August 2015

A Gram-staining-positive, catalase-positive, oxidase-negative, facultatively anaerobic, rod-shaped bacterium designated strain DCY88T, was isolated from flowers of magnolia. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequence comparison revealed that the strain formed a distinct lineage within the genus Paenibacillus that was closely related to Paenibacillus hordei RH-N24T (97.8 %). The other most closely related species were Paenibacillus illinoisensis NRRL NRS-1356T (94.3 %), Paenibacillus hunanensis DSM 22170T (94.2 %), Paenibacillus peoriae DSM 8320T (93.9 %), Paenibacillus kribbensis Am49T (93.8 %) and the type species of the genus, Paenibacillus polymyxa ATCC 842T (93.3 %). Cells of the strain were endospore-forming and motile by peritrichous flagella. Strain DCY88T formed pink-pigmented colonies on trypticase soy agar and R2A agar medium. Growth of strain DCY88T occurs at temperatures 5–37 °C, at pH 4–9 and 0.5–5.5 % NaCl (w/v). The menaquinone was MK-7.The cell wall peptidoglycan of strain DCY88T contained meso-diaminopimelic acid. The major fatty acids were anteiso-C15 : 0 (61.0 %) and C16 : 0 (11.0 %). The major polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine and an unidentified polar lipid. The strain DCY88T contained spermidine as the major polyamine. The DNA G+C content was 51.6 mol%. The DNA–DNA hybridization relatedness between strain DCY88T and P. hordei RH-N24T was 48 ± 2 %. The phenotypic, phylogenetic and chemotaxonomic results indicate that the strain DCY88T represents a novel species of the genus Paenibacillus, for which the name Paenibacillus kyungheensis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is DCY88T ( = JCM 19886T = KCTC 33429T).
Fulminant meningococcal supraglotittis in an immunosuppressed patient
Authors: de Asua Ignacio , Sorrentino Enrico
Published: August 2015

Introduction:

Acute bacterial supraglotittis in adults is a distinct although rare condition that differs aetiologically and clinically from the classic paediatric form of the disease. Only a handful of cases of supraglotittis produced by Neisseria meningitidis have been described in the literature.

Case presentation:

Here, we present the first description, to the best of our knowledge, of meningococcal supraglotittis in an immunosuppressed patient, with unique features of rapidly progressive symptoms, septic shock and multiorgan compromise.

Conclusion:

In view of the recent reports describing a growing incidence of this condition in adults, increasing awareness about its clinical features, natural history and potential complications is needed to enable early recognition and optimal management of emerging cases.
Do labetalol and methyldopa have different effects on pregnancy outcome? Analysis of data from the Control of Hypertension In Pregnancy Study (CHIPS) trial
Authors: Magee LA ,   the CHIPS Study Group, von Dadelszen P , Singer J , Lee T , Rey E , Ross S , Asztalos E , Murphy KE , Menzies J , Sanchez J , Gafni A , Gruslin A , Helewa M , Hutton E , Koren G , Lee SK , Logan AG , Ganzevoort JW , Welch R , Thornton JG , Moutquin J‐M
Published: August 2015

Objective

To compare pregnancy outcomes, accounting for allocated group, between methyldopa‐treated and labetalol‐treated women in the CHIPS Trial (ISRCTN 71416914) of ‘less tight’ versus ‘tight’ control of pregnancy hypertension.

Design

Secondary analysis of CHIPS Trial cohort.

Setting

International randomised controlled trial (94 sites, 15 countries).

Population or sample

Of 987 CHIPS recruits, 481/566 (85.0%) women treated with antihypertensive therapy at randomisation. Of 981 (99.4%) women followed to delivery, 656/745 (88.1%) treated postrandomisation.

Methods

Logistic regression to compare outcomes among women who took methyldopa or labetalol, adjusted for the influence of baseline factors.

Main outcome measures

CHIPS primary (perinatal loss or high level neonatal care for >48 hours) and secondary (serious maternal complications) outcomes, birthweight <10th centile, severe maternal hypertension, pre‐eclampsia and delivery at <34 or <37 weeks.

Results

Methyldopa and labetalol were used commonly at randomisation (243/987, 24.6% and 238/987, 24.6%, respectively) and post‐randomisation (224/981, 22.8% and 433/981, 44.1%, respectively). Following adjusted analyses, methyldopa (versus labetalol) at randomisation was associated with fewer babies with birthweight <10th centile [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 0.48; 95% CI 0.20–0.87]. Methyldopa (versus labetalol) postrandomisation was associated with fewer CHIPS primary outcomes (aOR 0.64; 95% CI 0.40–1.00), birthweight <10th centile (aOR 0.54; 95% CI 0.32–0.92), severe hypertension (aOR 0.51; 95% CI 0.31–0.83), pre‐eclampsia (aOR 0.55; 95% CI 0.36–0.85), and delivery at <34 weeks (aOR 0.53; 95% CI 0.29–0.96) or <37 weeks (aOR 0.55; 95% CI 0.35–0.85).

Conclusion

These nonrandomised comparisons are subject to residual confounding, but women treated with methyldopa (versus labetalol), particularly those with pre‐existing hypertension, may have had better outcomes.

Tweetable abstract

There was no evidence that women treated with methyldopa versus labetalol had worse outcomes.
Sudden Death by Occult Metastatic Carcinoma
Authors: Dean Stephanie A. , Mathis Benjamin , Litzky Leslie A. , Hood Ian C.
Published: August 2015

A 33‐year‐old female collapsed and died suddenly after presenting with acute dyspnea and increasing cough over the preceding several months. Autopsy revealed poorly differentiated linitis plastica adenocarcinoma of the stomach. Microscopic examination of the lungs showed features consistent with pulmonary tumor thrombotic microangiopathy (PTTM). PTTM is a well‐described complication in patients with adenocarcinoma. The typical presentation involves acute pulmonary hypertension, right‐sided heart failure, and sudden death, often before the adenocarcinoma is discovered. The pathophysiology of PTTM remains elusive; it has been suggested that carcinoma cells may produce substances that influence pulmonary vasculature. Our patient had classic clinical and histologic features of PTTM in addition to prominent extravascular compression by intralymphatic tumor cells. These features undoubtedly caused her precipitous decline and lethal pulmonary hypertension, induced by underlying adenocarcinoma. This case demonstrates that sudden death can occur from pulmonary hypertension induced by metastatic carcinoma with remarkably little prior symptomatology.
Direct PCR Improves the Recovery of DNA from Various Substrates
Authors: Templeton Jennifer E. L. , Taylor Duncan , Handt Oliva , Skuza Pawel , Linacre Adrian
Published: August 2015

This study reports on the comparison of a standard extraction process with the direct PCR approach of processing low‐level DNA swabs typical in forensic investigations. Varying concentrations of control DNA were deposited onto three commonly encountered substrates, brass, plastic, and glass, left to dry, and swabbed using premoistened DNA‐free nylon FLOQswabs™. Swabs (n = 90) were either processed using the DNA IQ™ kit or, for direct PCR, swab fibers (~2 mm2) were added directly to the PCR with no prior extraction. A significant increase in the height of the alleles (p < 0.005) was observed when using the direct PCR approach over the extraction methodology when controlling for surface type and mass of DNA deposited. The findings indicate the potential use of direct PCR for increasing the PCR product obtained from low‐template DNA samples in addition to minimizing contamination and saving resources.
New insights into the biological role of the osmoregulated periplasmic glucans in pathogenic and symbiotic bacteria
Authors: Bontemps‐Gallo Sébastien , Lacroix Jean‐Marie
Published: August 2015

This review emphasizes the biological roles of the osmoregulated periplasmic glucans (OPGs). Osmoregulated periplasmic glucans occur in almost all α‐, β‐ and γ‐Proteobacteria. This polymer of glucose is required for full virulence. The roles of the OPGs are complex and vary depending on the species. Here, we outline the four major roles of the OPGs through four different pathogenic and one symbiotic bacterial models (Dickeya dadantii, Salmonella enterica, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Brucella abortus and Sinorhizobium meliloti). When periplasmic, the OPGs are a part of the signal transduction pathway and indirectly regulate genes involved in virulence. The OPGs can also be secreted. When outside of the cell, they interact directly with antibiotics to protect the bacterial cell or interact with the host cell to facilitate the invasion process. When OPGs are not found, as in the ε‐Proteobacteria, OPG‐like oligosaccharides are present. Their presence strengthens the evidence that OPGs play an important role in virulence.
Born Global, Made Local: Multinational Enterprise andAustralia's Early Wireless Industry
Authors: Given Jock
Published: August 2015

This article analyses the evolution of multinational enterprise through a case study of the Australasian wireless company,AWA, in the first half of the twentieth century. Ownership, location, and internalisation advantages explain aspects of the industry's rapid internationalisation, but other factors, including restrictive domestic legislation and oligopolistic competition, are also important. The imperialism of the era encouraged globalisation while binding companies to host nations' strategic imperatives and coordinated policy frameworks. Location factors included government desires to control wireless, especially once broadcasting developed in the 1920s, and to expand local manufacturing capacity for the emerging consumer electrical economy.
Effect of maternal and treatment‐related factors on the prevalence of birth defects after PESA‐ICSI and TESE‐ICSI: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Meijerink Aukje M. , Oomen Reinoud E. , Fleischer Kathrin , IntHout Joanna , Woldringh Gwendolyn H. , Braat Didi D.M.
Published: August 2015

Introduction

We performed a retrospective cohort study with the aim to evaluate the effect of maternal and treatment‐related factors on the prevalence of birth defects after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) using percutaneous epididymal sperm aspiration (PESA) and testicular sperm extraction (TESE).

Material and methods

643 newborns born after PESA‐ICSI (n = 406) and TESE‐ICSI (n = 237) in Radboud University Medical Center, after a gestational age of 12 weeks, 1 January 2002–1 January 2011 and 1 March–1 November 2014, respectively, were included in this study. Three sources of data were used for analysis: questionnaires, national obstetrics registration forms, and a lab‐database of all ICSI treatments. Data were analyzed using generalized estimating equations and logistic regression analysis.

Results

The prevalence of major birth defects in newborns born after PESA‐ICSI was 6.9% and after TESE‐ICSI was 5.9% (odds ratio 0.89, 95% confidence interval 0.46–1.75). No significant association was found between maternal or treatment‐related factors and the prevalence of birth defects.

Conclusions

We found a similar overall prevalence of birth defects in newborns born after PESA‐ICSI and TESE‐ICSI. The maternal and treatment‐related factors investigated did not show a significantly increased cumulative risk of birth defects.
Visceral adipose tissue‐derived serine protease inhibitor augments acetylcholine‐induced relaxation via the inhibition of acetylcholine esterase activity in rat isolated mesenteric artery
Authors: Kameshima S. , Yamada K. , Morita T. , Okada M. , Yamawaki H.
Published: August 2015

Aim

Visceral adipose tissue‐derived serine protease inhibitor (vaspin) is an adipocytokine with insulin‐sensitizing activity originally identified in visceral adipose tissues of obesity‐related type II diabetic rats. We previously showed that vaspin inhibits vascular cell migration and apoptosis as well as inflammatory responses, which are crucial for the development of hypertension. However, little is known about the effects of vaspin on vascular reactivity. The aim of this study was thus to explore the effects of vaspin on contraction and relaxation of isolated blood vessel.

Methods

After mesenteric arteries were isolated from male Wistar rats, the effects of pretreatment with vaspin (3 ng mL−1, 30 min) on concentration–contraction and concentration–relaxation relationships for each agent were examined. The effects of vaspin on acetylcholine (ACh)‐induced phosphorylation of endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase (eNOS) and ACh esterase (AChE) activity were also examined using Western blotting and colorimetric method respectively.

Results

Vaspin did not affect noradrenaline‐ or 5‐hydroxytryptamine‐induced contraction. In contrast, vaspin augmented ACh‐ but not histamine‐, A23187‐ or carbachol‐induced NO‐mediated relaxation. Vaspin significantly increased ACh‐induced eNOS phosphorylation and inhibited AChE activity.

Conclusion

We for the first time demonstrate that vaspin augments the ACh‐induced NO‐mediated endothelium‐dependent relaxation via the inhibition of AChE activity.
CYP‐mediated drug–drug interactions with evacetrapib, an investigational CETP inhibitor: in vitro prediction and clinical outcome
Authors: Cannady Ellen A. , Suico Jeffrey G. , Wang Ming‐Dauh , Friedrich Stuart , Rehmel Jessica R. F. , Nicholls Stephen J. , Krueger Kathryn A.
Published: August 2015

Aims

Evacetrapib is a cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) inhibitor under development for reducing cardiovascular events in patients with high risk vascular disease. CETP inhibitors are likely to be utilized as ‘add‐on’ therapy to statins in patients receiving concomitant medications, so the potential for evacetrapib to cause clinically important drug–drug interactions (DDIs) with cytochromes P450 (CYP) was evaluated.

Methods

The DDI potential of evacetrapib was investigated in vitro, followed by predictions to determine clinical relevance. Potential DDIs with possible clinical implications were then investigated in the clinic.

Results

In vitro, evacetrapib inhibited all of the major CYPs, with inhibition constants (Ki) ranging from 0.57 µm (CYP2C9) to 7.6 µm (CYP2C19). Evacetrapib was a time‐dependent inhibitor and inducer of CYP3A. The effects of evacetrapib on CYP3A and CYP2C9 were assessed in a phase 1 study using midazolam and tolbutamide as probe substrates, respectively. After 14 days of daily dosing with evacetrapib (100 or 300 mg), midazolam exposures (AUC) changed by factors (95% CI) of 1.19 (1.06, 1.33) and 1.44 (1.28, 1.62), respectively. Tolbutamide exposures (AUC) changed by factors of 0.85 (0.77, 0.94) and 1.06 (0.95, 1.18), respectively. In a phase 2 study, evacetrapib 100 mg had minimal impact on AUC of co‐administered simvastatin vs. simvastatin alone with a ratio of 1.25 (1.03, 1.53) at steady‐state, with no differences in reported hepatic or muscular adverse events.

Conclusions

Taken together, the extent of CYP‐mediated DDI with the potential clinical dose of evacetrapib is weak and clinically important DDIs are not expected to occur in patients taking concomitant medications.
Review of affective computing in education/learning: Trends and challenges
Authors: Wu Chih‐Hung , Huang Yueh‐Min , Hwang Jan‐Pan
Published: August 2015

Affect can significantly influence education/learning. Thus, understanding a learner's affect throughout the learning process is crucial for understanding motivation. In conventional education/learning research, learner motivation can be known through postevent self‐reported questionnaires. With the advance of affective computing technology, researchers are able to objectively identify and measure a learner's affective status during the entire learning process in a real‐time manner, and then they are able to understand the interrelationship between emotion, motivation and learning performance. There are over 100 papers in the ScienceDirect database with the keywords “affective computing in education” or “affective computing in learning,” which reveals that this emerging technology has been applied to education/learning. This study intends to categorize and summarize those measurements so as to realize their applicability, feasibility and trends. Finally, some challenges and suggestions are then raised for helping educational researchers when applying affective computing technology.
Effects of cloud‐based m‐learning on student creative performance in engineering design
Authors: Chang Yu‐Shan , Chen Si‐Yi , Yu Kuang‐Chao , Chu Yih‐Hsien , Chien Yu‐Hung
Published: August 2015

This study explored the effects of cloud‐based m‐learning on students' creative processes and products in engineering design. A nonequivalent pretest–posttest design was adopted, and 62 university students from Taipei City, Taiwan, were recruited as research participants in the study. The results showed that cloud‐based m‐learning had a positive effect on creative performance in engineering design. It also improved the creative process in terms of presenting problems and of generating and validating responses. Additionally, cloud‐based m‐learning effectively improved overall performance, novelty, value and elaboration in designing creative products.
Is the intention–behaviour gap greater amongst the more deprived? A meta‐analysis of five studies on physical activity, diet, and medication adherence in smoking cessation
Authors: Vasiljevic Milica , Ng Yin‐Lam , Griffin Simon J. , Sutton Stephen , Marteau Theresa M.
Published: August 2015

Objectives

Unhealthy behaviour is more common amongst the deprived, thereby contributing to health inequalities. The evidence that the gap between intention and behaviour is greater amongst the more deprived is limited and inconsistent. We tested this hypothesis using objective and self‐report measures of three behaviours, both individual‐ and area‐level indices of socio‐economic status, and pooling data from five studies.

Design

Secondary data analysis.

Methods

Multiple linear regressions and meta‐analyses of data on physical activity, diet, and medication adherence in smoking cessation from 2,511 participants.

Results

Across five studies, we found no evidence for an interaction between deprivation and intention in predicting objective or self‐report measures of behaviour. Using objectively measured behaviour and area‐level deprivation, meta‐analyses suggested that the gap between self‐efficacy and behaviour was greater amongst the more deprived (B = .17 [95% CI = 0.02, 0.31]).

Conclusions

We find no compelling evidence to support the hypothesis that the intention–behaviour gap is greater amongst the more deprived.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

Unhealthy behaviour is more common in those who are more deprived.

This may reflect a larger gap between intentions and behaviour amongst the more deprived.

The limited evidence to date testing this hypothesis is mixed.

What does this study add?

In the most robust study to date, combining results from five trials, we found no evidence for this explanation.

The gap between intentions and behaviour did not vary with deprivation for the following: diet, physical activity, or medication adherence in smoking cessation.

We did, however, find a larger gap between perceived control over behaviour (self‐efficacy) and behaviour in those more deprived.

These findings add to existing evidence to suggest that higher rates of unhealthier behaviour in more deprived groups may be reduced by the following:

 Strengthening behavioural control mechanisms (such as executive function and non‐conscious processes) or

 Behaviour change interventions that bypass behavioural control mechanisms.
Paramètres environnementaux conditionnant l'établissement d'une espèce aquatique envahissante (Ciona intestinalis), Île‐du‐Prince‐Édouard, Canada
Authors: McLaughlin Janelle , Fortin Guillaume , Bourque Daniel , Guyondet Thomas
Published: August 2015

Faits saillants

Une étude des paramètres environnementaux de deux bassins versants de l'Île‐du‐Prince‐Édouard a été réalisée afin d'identifier leur rôle dans l'établissement d'une espèce envahissante, les tuniciers (Ciona intestinalis).

L'étude compare les systèmes des rivières Brudenell et Montague (succès) et de la baie d'Orwell (échec de l'établissement).

Ce dernier se distingue par une perte de sol plus élevée, moins de zones où l'érosion est tolérable, des marées et des courants plus forts, un renouvellement des eaux plus rapide, une faible profondeur, une turbidité plus élevée, une salinité légèrement inférieure, une moindre concentration en chlorophylle et une température un peu plus chaude.
“Overlapping claims” to territory confronting treaty‐making in British Columbia: Causes and implications
Authors: Turner Christopher , Fondahl Gail
Published: August 2015

Key Messages

Overlapping Aboriginal claims to territory often result from variously constituted indigenous political identities and the diverse spatialities they enact.

Settling treaties in contested areas can privilege Aboriginal groups that settle treaties first, to the detriment of groups with overlapping claims.

Ordinary courts have struggled to find a remedy; an Indigenous Territories Commission is suggested for addressing such disputes.
Atypical cutaneous γδ T cell proliferation with morphologic features of lymphoma but with clinical features and course of PLEVA or lymphomatoid papulosis
Authors: King Rebecca L. , Yan Albert C. , Sekiguchi Debora R. , Choi John K.
Published: August 2015

Reactive lymphoid infiltrates of the skin composed predominantly of gamma‐delta (γδ) T cells are not well described in the literature. Herein we report a case of an otherwise healthy 4‐year‐old male who presented with a waxing and waning papular rash characterized by small, discrete crusted papules spread across his trunk, face and extremities. Clinical evaluation revealed no evidence of systemic disease. Microscopic examination revealed a dermal, perivascular infiltrate of highly atypical lymphocytes with a γδ T cell phenotype, worrisome for primary cutaneous γδ T cell lymphoma. The clinical course, however, was that of a reactive condition and prompted consideration of a diagnosis of pityriasis lichenoides et varioliformis acuta (PLEVA) and lymphomatoid papulosis (LyP). In many ways, this case defies current classification schemes and seems to expand the spectrum of reactive γδ T cell infiltrates of the skin.
Developmental changes between childhood and adulthood in passive observational and interactive feedback‐based categorization rule learning
Authors: Hammer Rubi , Kloet Jim , Booth James R.
Published: August 2015

As children start attending school they are more likely to face situations where they have to autonomously learn about novel object categories (e.g. by reading a picture book with descriptions of novel animals). Such autonomous observational category learning (OCL) gradually complements interactive feedback‐based category learning (FBCL), where a child hypothesizes about the nature of a novel object, acts based on his prediction, and then receives feedback indicating the correctness of his prediction. Here we tested OCL and FBCL skills of elementary school children and adults. In both conditions, participants performed complex rule‐based categorization tasks that required associating novel objects with novel category‐labels. We expected children to perform better in FBCL tasks than in OCL tasks, whereas adults to be skilled in both tasks. As hypothesized, in early‐phase learning children performed better in FBCL tasks than in OCL tasks. Unexpectedly, adults performed somewhat better in OCL tasks. Early‐phase FBCL performance in the two age groups was matched, but the OCL performance of adults was higher than that of children. In late‐phase learning there was only an age group main effect (adults > children). Moreover, performance in post‐learning categorization tasks, that did not require label recollection, indicated that in FBCL tasks children were likely to directly learn the associations between an object and a category label, whereas in the OCL tasks they were likely to first learn which feature‐dimensions were relevant. These findings shed light on developmental changes in cognitive control and learning mechanisms. Implications for educational settings are discussed.
Inappropriate sexual behaviour in adolescents with autism spectrum disorder: what education is recommended and why
Authors: Beddows Nicola , Brooks Rachel
Published: August 2015

Aim

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder impairing social skills and communication. Adolescents withASDhave sexual needs, but may not understand their physical and emotional development resulting in inappropriate sexual behaviour. The aim of this review is to describe the type of inappropriate behaviour that presents in these adolescents, explain why such behaviours occur, suggest what education is suitable and identify current gaps in research.

Method

The databasesEMBASE,OVID MEDLINEandPSYCINFOwere searched for relevant articles. In total, 5241 articles were found, with an additional 15 sources found via soft searches, of which 42 met inclusion criteria and were subsequently reviewed.

Results

Sexual behaviours that occur in these adolescents withASDinclude hypermasturbation, public masturbation, inappropriate romantic gestures, inappropriate arousal and exhibitionism. Such behaviours are thought to be caused via a lack of understanding of normal puberty, the absence of appropriate sex education, the severity of theirASDand other associated problems. It is suggested that individualized, repetitive education should be started from an early age in an accessible form. Social skills development is also important before more technical aspects of sex education are taught.

Conclusion

Despite being such a common problem for schools, institutions and families to manage, it is surprising how sparse literature is particularly regarding why inappropriate behaviour occurs and what education is effective.