bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beliefs about peer interaction and peer corrective feedback: Efficacy of classroom intervention
Authors: Sato Masatoshi
Published: August 2013

This study investigates the beliefs of second language learners regarding peer interaction and peer corrective feedback (CF) as well as the feasibility of a second language intervention, aimed at changing those beliefs. The classroom intervention was designed to promote collaborative learning and to train learners to provide CF to each other. Participants were university‐level learners in 4 required English classes in Japan (N = 167), each assigned to 1 of 4 treatment conditions. While all experimental classes were given peer interaction instruction, 2 classes were given CF training (prompts or recasts). Another class served as the control group. Questionnaires were administered before and after the intervention and selected learners (n = 36) were interviewed. The quantitative (factor‐analysis and matched‐samples t‐tests) and qualitative (grounded theory methodology) analyses revealed that, while learners held positive beliefs about peer interaction and peer CF from the onset, the intervention facilitated trust in their classmates as learning resources, and those who were given CF training displayed an increased willingness to and confidence in providing CF. Also, 2 classroom‐specific variables emerged for the intervention to be effective on language development: a collaborative classroom environment and positive social relationships between learners.
Demography of Carex brevicuspis (Cyperaceae) rhizome populations: a wetland sedge that produces both elongated and shortened rhizomes
Authors: Chen Xin‐Sheng , Deng Zheng‐Miao , Xie Yong‐Hong , Li Feng , Hou Zhi‐Yong , Li Xu
Published: August 2013

The wetland sedge Carex brevicuspis reproduces vegetatively by producing short rhizomes to form clumping ramets phalanx) and long rhizomes to form spreading ramets (guerrilla), resulting in a combined growth form. As an initial step towards understanding the adaptation of Carex growth strategies to seasonal fluctuations in wetland habitats, we investigated the density and composition of C. brevicuspis rhizome populations immediately after flooding (November), in winter (January), in spring (March), and before flooding (May) in the Dongting Lake wetlands, China. The total rhizome density peaked in winter and was lowest before flooding. A large rhizome population in winter may enable C. brevicuspis to survive the seasonal cold weather and recruit a shoot population in the spring. A small rhizome population before flooding may optimize reproductive allocations and be a strategy for enduring the long flooding season. Regardless of date, short rhizomes comprised the majority of the rhizome population (73.0% in March to 98.2% in May). This indicates that C. brevicuspis primarily uses a phalanx growth strategy to utilize locally abundant resources in wetlands. The percentage of long rhizomes in the rhizome population varies significantly between seasons (1.8% in May to 27.0% in March), indicating that growth form also changes with seasonal fluctuation of wetland habitats. The results show that C. brevicuspis may adapt to seasonal changes in wetland habitats through changes in demography of rhizome populations.
Multi‐objective reservoir operation under emergency condition: Abbaspour reservoir case study with non‐functional spillways
Authors: Akbari M. , Afshar A. , Mousavi S.J.
Published: August 2013

The main objective of this study is to present a simulation‐optimization approach methodology for short‐term operation of multi‐objective reservoirs during emergency conditions where risk of flooding and overflow from damaged spillways is significant. The paper considers flood risk management through enhancing dam safety as well as long‐term objectives of the reservoir for hydropower generation and irrigation water supply simultaneously. In particular, real‐time operation of Abbaspour reservoir during an emergency condition is considered where all flood discharging facilities are out of order for repairing the damaged parts. The proposed methodology combines a short‐term and a long‐term operation strategies to minimize risk of overflow for any possible incoming floods while preserving the long‐term objectives of the reservoir. An efficient daily flow forecasting scheme provides the inflow data for the short‐term (daily) operation strategy in a deterministic environment which follows the long‐term operation policy. A multi‐objective stochastic dynamic programming model addresses the long‐term operation policy by solving the weekly operation model. The outcomes of the model application to the case study have illustrated its capabilities in developing a compromise between the risk of dam overflow and its long‐term objectives.
Serum Helicobacter pylori CagA antibody titer as a useful marker for advanced inflammation in the stomach in Japan
Authors: Shiota Seiji , Murakami Kazunari , Okimoto Tadayoshi , Kodama Masaaki , Yamaoka Yoshio
Published: August 2013

Background and Aim

Subjects infected with Helicobacter pylori containing cagA do not always induce serum CagA antibody. Our previous meta‐analysis showed that serum CagA seropositivity was associated with gastric cancer even in East Asian countries. However, it remains unclear why serum CagA‐positive status is associated with gastric cancer. In this study, we aimed to examine the relationship between anti‐CagA antibody titer and the levels of pepsinogen (PG), and histological score.

Methods

Eighty‐eight H. pylori‐positive Japanese patients with gastritis were included. Serum CagA antibody titer, PG I, and PG II were evaluated by ELISA. Histological scores were evaluated according to Update Sydney System. CagA expression was examined by immunoblot.

Results

Seroprevalence of CagA antibody was found in 75.0%. Interestingly, serum CagA antibody titer was significantly correlated with PG I and PG II levels (P = 0.003 and 0.004, respectively). Serum CagA antibody titer was also significantly correlated with mucosal inflammation in the corpus (P = 0.04). On the other hand, bacterial density was not related with CagA antibody titer. CagA expression level of the strains was irrespective of the status of PG and serum CagA antibody.

Conclusions

Subjects with higher serum CagA antibody titer can be considered as high‐risk population for the development of gastric cancer from the point of strong gastric inflammatory response even in Japan. Host recognition rather than bacterial colonization might be associated with the difference of serum CagA antibody titer.
Impact of CYP3A5 genetic polymorphisms on the pharmacokinetics and short‐term remission in patients with ulcerative colitis treated with tacrolimus
Authors: Hirai Fumihito , Takatsu Noritaka , Yano Yutaka , Satou Yuhou , Takahashi Haruhiko , Ishikawa Satoshi , Tsurumi Kozue , Hisabe Takashi , Matsui Toshiyuki
Published: August 2013

Background and Aim

The pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus (Tac) differ among individuals, and genetic polymorphisms of cytochrome P‐450 (CYP) 3A4, CYP3A5, and ABCB1 are thought to be involved. The aim of this study was to clarify whether these genetic polymorphisms affect the pharmacokinetics of Tac in patients with ulcerative colitis.

Methods

The subjects in this study were 45 patients with moderate‐to‐severe ulcerative colitis who were resistant to other therapies and were treated with Tac. The subjects were tested for genetic polymorphisms of CYP3A4, CYP3A5, and ABCB1, and the relationship between Tac pharmacokinetics and the remission rate was investigated.

Results

Of the 45 subjects, 24 (53.3%) were CYP3A5 expressers (Exp), and 21 (46.7%) were non‐expressers (Non‐Exp). The trough level and the dose‐adjusted trough level on days 2–5 were significantly higher in the Non‐Exp group than in the Exp group (10.16 ± 5.84 vs 4.47 ± 2.50 ng/mL, P < 0.0001, 139.36 ± 77.43 vs 61.37 ± 41.55 ng/mL per mg/kg/day, P < 0.0001). The percentage of patients achieving the optimal trough level on days 2–5 was significantly higher in the Non‐Exp group than in the Exp group (40.0% vs 4.3%, P = 0.01). This trend was also observed on days 7–10. On multivariate analysis, factors associated with achievement of the optimal trough level were food non‐intake and Non‐Exp of CYP3A5. The remission rate was significantly higher in the Non‐Exp group than in the Exp group (47.6% vs 16.7%, P = 0.046).

Conclusions

CYP3A5 genetic polymorphisms affected the pharmacokinetics of Tac, so that the short‐term clinical remission rate was different between Exp and Non‐Exp of CYP3A5.
Roses Exhibit Pathotype‐specific Resistance Responses to Powdery Mildew
Authors: Hosseini Moghaddam Hossein , Dewitte Angelo , Van Bockstaele Erik , Van Huylenbroeck Johan , Leus Leen
Published: August 2013

Disease resistance is highly desired in roses. Especially in garden rose breeding, efforts are being made to select for plants with raised levels of resistance towards powdery mildew. Despite the description of different pathotypes of powdery mildew and the development of pathotype‐specific QTLs, pathotype‐specific virulence and resistance mechanisms are not well known. To understand resistance in roses, different evaluation methods were used: disease scoring on inoculated detached leaves, evaluation of conidia development and plant responses by cell reactions. In this study, two rose genotypes, Rosa wichurana and Rosa ‘Yesterday’, were found to react differently towards two powdery mildew pathotypes (R‐E and R‐P). Although susceptible to R‐P, ‘Yesterday’ showed immunity to R‐E by arresting fungal development after conidium germination. Rosa wichurana showed partial resistance to pathotype R‐P and was even more resistant to pathotype R‐E by means of increasing amounts of cell reactions. Hybridization of ‘Yesterday’ × R. wichurana resulted in a diploid F1 population (90 genotypes). This population was screened for resistance mechanism–specific segregation to both fungal pathotypes. The results of both pathotypes exhibited a wide variation in resistance among the F1 genotypes. Our results showed that resistance reactions to powdery mildew in roses do not only result in different resistance mechanisms depending on the rose genotype but were also pathotype dependent.
Rabbit dental disease and calcium metabolism – the science behind divided opinions
Authors: Jekl V. , Redrobe S.
Published: August 2013

Dental disease is considered as one of the, if not, the most common disorders seen in pet rabbits. This article provides a review of the scientific literature and an overview of the peculiarities of calcium homeostasis in the rabbit in an attempt to draw together current thinking on the cause of dental disease. A complete understanding of the aetiology and pathophysiology of rabbit dental disease is necessary for the veterinary practitioner to establish a proper therapeutic plan, prognosis and ultimately prevention of this common cause of morbidity and mortality in pet rabbits.
Pain management for pediatric tonsillectomy: An integrative review through the perioperative and home experience
Authors: Howard Dekeisha , Davis Katherine Finn , Phillips Eileen , Ryan Eileen , Scalford Deborah , Flynn‐Roth Regina , Ely Elizabeth
Published: August 2013

Purpose

This integrative review aims to increase our understanding of current pain management care practices for children undergoing tonsillectomy.

Conclusions

Synthesis of the literature resulted in four main opportunities for care providers to manage pain: preoperative education and preparation, intraoperative surgical interventions, and postoperative pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic interventions in the post anesthesia care unit and home settings.

Practice Implications

Nurses have many opportunities to understand pain management practices and intervene to minimize pain experienced in pediatric outpatients undergoing tonsillectomy.
Comparison of historical bottleneck effects and genetic consequences of re‐introduction in a critically endangered island passerine
Authors: Bristol Rachel M. , Tucker Rachel , Dawson Deborah A. , Horsburgh Gavin , Prys‐Jones Robert P. , Frantz Alain C. , Krupa Andy , Shah Nirmal J. , Burke Terry , Groombridge Jim J.
Published: August 2013

Re‐introduction is an important tool for recovering endangered species; however, the magnitude of genetic consequences for re‐introduced populations remains largely unknown, in particular the relative impacts of historical population bottlenecks compared to those induced by conservation management. We characterize 14 microsatellite loci developed for the Seychelles paradise flycatcher and use them to quantify temporal and spatial measures of genetic variation across a 134‐year time frame encompassing a historical bottleneck that reduced the species to ~28 individuals in the 1960s, through the initial stages of recovery and across a second contemporary conservation‐introduction‐induced bottleneck. We then evaluate the relative impacts of the two bottlenecks, and finally apply our findings to inform broader re‐introduction strategy. We find a temporal trend of significant decrease in standard measures of genetic diversity across the historical bottleneck, but only a nonsignificant downward trend in number of alleles across the contemporary bottleneck. However, accounting for the different timescales of the two bottlenecks (~40 historical generations versus <1 contemporary generation), the loss of genetic diversity per generation is greater across the contemporary bottleneck. Historically, the flycatcher population was genetically structured; however, extinction on four of five islands has resulted in a homogeneous contemporary population. We conclude that severe historical bottlenecks can leave a large footprint in terms of sheer quantity of genetic diversity lost. However, severely depleted genetic diversity does not render a species immune to further genetic erosion upon re‐introduction. In some cases, the loss of genetic diversity per generation can, initially at least, be greater across re‐introduction‐induced bottlenecks.
Targeted sequence capture and resequencing implies a predominant role of regulatory regions in the divergence of a sympatric lake whitefish species pair (Coregonus clupeaformis)
Authors: Hebert Francois Olivier , Renaut Sébastien , Bernatchez Louis
Published: August 2013

Latest technological developments in evolutionary biology bring new challenges in documenting the intricate genetic architecture of species in the process of divergence. Sympatric populations of lake whitefish represent one of the key systems to investigate this issue. Despite the value of random genotype‐by‐sequencing methods and decreasing cost of sequencing technologies, it remains challenging to investigate variation in coding regions, especially in the case of recently duplicated genomes as in salmonids, as this greatly complicates whole genome resequencing. We thus designed a sequence capture array targeting 2773 annotated genes to document the nature and the extent of genomic divergence between sympatric dwarf and normal whitefish. Among the 2728 genes successfully captured, a total of 2182 coding and 10 415 noncoding putative single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified after applying a first set of basic filters. A genome scan with a quality‐refined selection of 2203 SNPs identified 267 outlier SNPs in 210 candidate genes located in genomic regions potentially involved in whitefish divergence and reproductive isolation. We found highly heterogeneous FST estimates among SNP loci. There was an overall low level of coding polymorphism, with a predominance of noncoding mutations among outliers. The heterogeneous patterns of divergence among loci confirm the porous nature of genomes during speciation with gene flow. Considering that few protein‐coding mutations were identified as highly divergent, our results, along with previous transcriptomic studies, imply that changes in regulatory regions most likely had a greater role in the process of whitefish population divergence than protein‐coding mutations. This study is the first to demonstrate the efficiency of large‐scale targeted resequencing for a nonmodel species with such a large and unsequenced genome.
German modernity, barbarous Slavs and profit‐seekingJews: the cultural racism of nationalist liberals
Authors: Stoetzler Marcel , Achinger Christine
Published: August 2013

This paper examines emblematic texts by two important protagonists of post‐1848 liberalism inGermany,GustavFreytag andHeinrich vonTreitschke, focusing on their treatment ofJews andPoles. The paper analyses the social content of their statements and argues that the elements of anti‐Semitism and anti‐Slav racism that they contain were motivated by the specific kind of nationalist liberalism that frames their affirmation of the process of modernisation. This affirmation was directed against thePoles on the one hand, seen as backwardEasterners who had to be pushed into civilisation byPrussian–German colonialism, and, on the other hand, theJews, largely perceived as representing the wrong kind of modernity against which benign (supposedlyGerman) modernity had to be protected. At the same time, the image of theJew inFreytag andTreitschke also participates in that of the backwardEasterner, permitting to see undesirable, allegedly Jewish aspects of modernity also as distortions resulting from an alien and ancient culture. This analysis has consequences for theorisations of both liberalism and nationalism: it suggests that the racism and anti‐Semitism of nationalist liberals were intrinsically related to core aspects of the liberal world‐view rather than being merely contingent opinions held by particular individuals. It also indicates that the nationalism of manyGerman post‐1848 liberals was ethnic as well as liberal. In this way, the paper contributes to the growing body of literature discussing the illiberal aspects of liberalism as well as the shortcomings of the long‐established conceptual dichotomy of ethnic vs. liberal nationalism.
Coming to terms with a difficult past: the trauma of the assassination ofHrantDink and its repercussions onTurkish national identity
Authors: Türkmen‐Dervişoğlu Gülay
Published: August 2013

This paper takes as its subject the question of why some nations are less willing to acknowledge past atrocities. To answer that question, it focuses on the assassination ofHrantDink – aTurkish‐Armenian journalist – and its repercussions onTurkish national identity. Scrutinising newspaper articles written before and after the assassination (2004–2007), it casts a detailed glance at the struggle between two carrier groups – pro‐ and anti‐acknowledgement groups – and argues that the assassination increased the likelihood of the acknowledgement of the mass killing ofArmenians in 1915 by creating a cultural trauma informed by collective guilt. However, the relief generated by the funeral, combined with the strength of the master commemorative narrative regarding the mass killings, decreased that likelihood, and despite the huge public reaction created by the assassination there was no attempt at acknowledgement. As such, the paper contributes to our understanding of the trauma of perpetrators and claims that, in addition to other factors listed by earlier studies, cultural trauma is a necessary but not a sufficient condition for coming to terms with difficult pasts.
Loss of Oca2 disrupts the unfolded protein response and increases resistance to endoplasmic reticulum stress in melanocytes
Authors: Cheng Tsing , Orlow Seth J. , Manga Prashiela
Published: August 2013

Accumulation of proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) typically induces stress and initiates the unfolded protein response (UPR) to facilitate recovery. If homeostasis is not restored, apoptosis is induced. However, adaptation to chronic UPR activation can increase resistance to subsequent acute ER stress. We therefore investigated adaptive mechanisms in Oculocutaneous albinism type 2 (Oca2)‐null melanocytes where UPR signaling is arrested despite continued tyrosinase accumulation leading to resistance to the chemical ER stressor thapsigargin. Although thapsigargin triggers UPR activation, instead of Perk‐mediated phosphorylation of eIF2α, in Oca2‐null melanocytes, eIF2α was rapidly dephosphorylated upon treatment. Dephosphorylation was mediated by the Gadd34‐PP1α phosphatase complex. Gadd34‐complex inhibition blocked eIF2α dephosphorylation and significantly increased Oca2‐null melanocyte sensitivity to thapsigargin. Thus, Oca2‐null melanocytes adapt to acute ER stress by disruption of pro‐apoptotic Perk signaling, which promotes cell survival. This is the first study to demonstrate rapid eIF2α dephosphorylation as an adaptive mechanism to ER stress.
Fluorescence Technologies for Evaluating Male Gamete (Dys)Function
Authors: Petrunkina AM , Harrison RAP
Published: August 2013

Contents

For many years, andrologists have sought ways of assessing sperm fertility, especially of new sires entering the breeding chain. As knowledge of the complex processes that enable sperm to fertilize eggs has increased, it has become clearer that quantitative estimation of the fertilizing potential of a sire or an ejaculate is actually unlikely ever to be fully realized. Here, we propose that a better approach is to identify substandard males and semen samples. During the past decades, the use of fluorescence technologies in biomedical science has burgeoned, with the development of very powerful instrumentation such as confocal microscopy and flow cytometers of ever‐increasing capabilities together with a vast range of fluorochromes and fluorochrome conjugates. This technology has been applied to andrology but thus far in only a relatively simple way. In this review, we offer strategies for assessing a large range of sperm functions thought to be related to fertilizing ability over a temporal window rather than at a single time point. From such an assessment profile, sperm samples that over‐respond or do not respond sufficiently could be identified, termed dysfunctional and rejected. We outline the rationales behind such tests, present information on new potentially useful fluorochromes and current flow cytometer models that would be suitable for the multicolour multifunctional tests we propose, and we offer suggestions as to how andrologists might design such multicolour tests for themselves.
Structuring the Future: Anticipated Life Events, Peer Networks, and Adolescent Sexual Behavior
Authors: Soller Brian , Haynie Dana L.
Published: August 2013

While prior research has established associations between individual expectations of future events and risk behavior among adolescents, the potential effects of peers' future perceptions on risk‐taking have been overlooked. We extend prior research by testing whether peers' anticipation of college completion is associated with adolescent sexual risk‐taking. We also examine whether adolescents' perceptions of the negative consequences of pregnancy and idealized romantic relationship scripts mediate the association between peers' anticipation of college completion and sexual risk‐taking. Results from multivariate regression models with data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health) indicate peers' anticipation of college completion is negatively associated with a composite measure of sexual risk‐taking and positively associated with the odds of abstaining from sexual intercourse and only engaging in intercourse with a romantic partner (compared to having intercourse with a non‐romantic partner). In addition, perceptions of the negative consequences of pregnancy and sexualized relationship scripts appear to mediate a large portion of the association between peers' anticipation of future success and sexual risk‐taking and the likelihood of abstaining (but not engaging in romantic‐only intercourse). Results from our study underscore the importance of peers in shaping adolescent sexual behavior.
Can Rating Pre-K Programs Predict Children's Learning?
Authors: Sabol T. J. , Soliday Hong S. L. , Pianta R. C. , Burchinal M. R.
Published: August 2013

Systems intended to rate the quality of early education programs may not actually reflect impacts on learning.
We Need More Than Preservation
After the Grizzly
Endangered Species and the Politics of Place in California

by Peter S. Alagona

University of California Press, Berkeley, 2013. 331 pp. $34.95, £24.95. ISBN 9780520275065.
Authors: Redpath Stephen
Published: August 2013

Alagona explores the complexities of using imperiled species as proxies for conflicts over places or resources.
O Brave New World with Such Games

Game-Theoretical Models in Biology
by Mark Broom and Jan Rychtář.

Chapman and Hall/CRC Press, Boca Raton, FL, 2013. 520 pp. $79.95, £39.99. ISBN 9781439853214.
Authors: Allen Benjamin , Nowak Martin A.
Published: August 2013

Blending mathematical clarity and biological intuition, Broom and Rychtář provide a comprehensive introduction to applying game theory to biology.
Mysterious Ribosomopathies
Authors: McCann Kathleen L. , Baserga Susan J.
Published: August 2013

Ribosomes are essential in all cell types, yet mutations to ribosomal proteins or assembly factors cause tissue-specific disease.
Maintaining Science Eminence
Authors: Leshner Alan I.
Published: August 2013

The U.S. scientific enterprise is heavily beleaguered. The economy is only now recovering from bad times, and there is great pressure to get the federal budget deficit under control. The “sequester,” an across-the-board cut in the entire federal budget, is making matters even worse for science, whose budget has failed to keep pace with inflation for at least the past 4 years. These realities are coming at the same time as other countries are increasing their R&D investments, in spite of similar economic conditions, responding to the clear relationship between a nation's research capacity, its economic strength, and the well-being of its people. The inequality in science funding trends is threatening America's standing in the global scientific community. Losing its eminence in science would probably result in fewer foreign scientists coming to study and work in the United States (and even perhaps some “brain drain” of U.S. scientists), fewer U.S.-based science and technology breakthroughs, and fewer U.S. startup companies and jobs.
A Physical Interaction Between the Adaptor Proteins DOK3 and DAP12 Is Required to Inhibit Lipopolysaccharide Signaling in Macrophages
Authors: Peng Qisheng , Long Courtney L. , Malhotra Shikha , Humphrey Mary Beth
Published: August 2013

The association of two immune adaptor proteins dampens inflammatory responses to a bacterial product.
Improved Rodent Maternal Metabolism But Reduced Intrauterine Growth After Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy
Authors: Grayson Bernadette E. , Schneider Katarina M. , Woods Stephen C. , Seeley Randy J.
Published: August 2013

Despite improved rodent maternal metabolism after vertical sleeve gastrectomy, offspring of dams after surgery show intrauterine growth restriction.
Enhanced Diagnostic Yields of Bacteremia and Candidemia in Blood Specimens by PCR-Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Laffler Thomas G. , Cummins Lendell L. , McClain Colt M. , Quinn Criziel D. , Toro Michelle A. , Carolan Heather E. , Toleno Donna M. , Rounds Megan A. , Eshoo Mark W. , Stratton Charles W. , Sampath Rangarajan , Blyn Lawrence B. , Ecker David J. , Tang Yi-Wei
Published: August 2013

A prospective study was performed to determine the value of direct molecular testing of whole blood for detecting the presence of culturable and unculturable bacteria and yeasts in patients with suspected bloodstream infections. A total of 464 adult and pediatric patients with positive blood cultures matched with 442 patients with negative blood cultures collected during the same period were recruited during a 10-month study. PCR amplification coupled with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (PCR-ESI-MS) plus blood culture reached an overall agreement of 78.6% in the detection and species-level identification of bacterial and candidal pathogens. Of 33 culture-negative/PCR-ESI-MS-positive specimens, 31 (93.9%) were judged to be truly bacteremic and/or candidemic based on a medical chart review and analytical metrics. Among the 15 culture-positive specimens in which PCR-ESI-MS detected additional bacterial or yeast species, 66.7% and 20.0% of the additional positive specimens by PCR-ESI-MS were judged to be truly or possibly bacteremic and/or candidemic, respectively. Direct analysis of blood samples by PCR-ESI-MS rapidly detects bacterial and yeast pathogens in patients with bloodstream infections. When used in conjunction with blood culture, PCR-ESI-MS enhances the diagnostics of septicemia by shortening test turnaround time and improving yields.
Improvement Rate of Acute Otitis Media Caused by Haemophilus influenzae at 1 Week Is Significantly Associated with Time to Recovery
Authors: Yano Hisakazu , Yamazaki Yoshitaka , Qin Liang , Okitsu Naohiro , Yahara Koji , Irimada Mihoko , Hirakata Yoichi , Kaku Mitsuo , Kobayashi Toshimitsu , Watanabe Hiroshi
Published: August 2013

Acute otitis media (AOM) is the most common upper respiratory tract infection in childhood. Children with AOM were enrolled at Tohoku Rosai Hospital between July 2006 and June 2011 if their middle ear fluid cultures after tympanocentesis yielded only
Haemophilus influenzae
. The susceptibilities of the isolates to ampicillin were determined, and microtiter biofilm assays and invasion assays using BEAS-2B cells were performed. The association between these bacterial characteristics and clinical relapses of AOM and treatment failures was evaluated. Seventy-four children (39 boys and 35 girls) with a median age of 1 year (interquartile range [IQR], 0.25 to 2 years) were enrolled. Among 74
H. influenzae
isolates, 37 showed intermediate resistance or resistance to ampicillin (MIC, ≥2 μg/ml). In the microtiter biofilm assay, the median optical density at 600 nm (OD
600
) was 0.68 (IQR, 0.24 to 1.02), and 70 isolates formed biofilms. The median invasion rate was 15% (IQR, 0 to 10%), and 46 isolates invaded BEAS-2B cells. Relapses and treatment failures occurred in 19 and 6 children, respectively. There was no significant difference in the invasion rates between patients with and those without relapses or treatment failures. Also, there was no significant association between biofilm formation and relapse or treatment failure. The improvements in the severity scores after 1 week were significantly associated with the recovery time (
P
< 0.0001). We did not identify any significant association between relapse or treatment failure and bacterial factors. AOM has a multifactorial etiology, and this may explain why we could not find a significant association. An improvement in the severity score after 1 week of treatment may be a useful predictor of the outcome of AOM.
A Convenient Method To Screen for Carbapenemase-Producing Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Fournier Damien , Garnier Pauline , Jeannot Katy , Mille Amélie , Gomez Anne-Sophie , Plésiat Patrick
Published: August 2013

A combined-disk method using imipenem and cloxacillin was evaluated to discriminate between carbapenemase-producing (
n
= 56) and nonproducing (
n
= 62) strains of
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
. With a cloxacillin load of 4,000 μg/disk, this very simple method showed a sensitivity and a specificity of 100%, irrespective of the type of carbapenemase produced.
Chronic Rhinovirus Infection in an Adult with Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Flight William G. , Bright-Thomas Rowland J. , Tilston Peter , Mutton Kenneth J. , Guiver Malcolm , Webb A. Kevin , Jones Andrew M.
Published: August 2013

Rhinovirus is a common cause of exacerbations of cystic fibrosis (CF) and is usually considered a self-limiting infection. We report a case of chronic infection with rhinovirus A type 33 in a 43-year-old male with CF which has persisted for over 2 years.
Cluster of Macrolide-Resistant Mycoplasma pneumoniae Infections in Illinois in 2012
Authors: Tsai Victoria , Pritzker Bernard B. , Diaz Maureen H. , Winchell Jonas M. , Hicks Lauri A. , Petrone Brianna , Benitez Alvaro , Wolff Bernard J. , Soyemi Kenneth L.
Published: August 2013

Macrolide-resistant
Mycoplasma pneumoniae
is an increasing problem worldwide but is not well documented in the United States. We report a cluster of macrolide-resistant
M. pneumoniae
cases among a mother and two daughters.
Application of Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization–Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry for Identification of the Fastidious Pediatric Pathogens Aggregatibacter, Eikenella, Haemophilus, and Kingella
Authors: Powell Eleanor A. , Blecker-Shelly Deborah , Montgomery Sandra , Mortensen Joel E.
Published: August 2013

The accuracy of matrix-assisted laser desorption–ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) in the identification of
Haemophilus
,
Aggregatibacter
,
Cardiobacterium
,
Eikenella
, and
Kingella
(HACEK) species was compared to that of phenotypic methods (Remel RapID and Vitek 2). Overall, Vitek MS correctly identified more isolates, incorrectly identified fewer isolates, and failed to identify fewer isolates than both phenotypic methods.
Fecal Influenza in Mammals: Selection of Novel Variants
Authors: Koçer Zeynep A. , Obenauer John , Zaraket Hassan , Zhang Jinghui , Rehg Jerold E. , Russell Charles J. , Webster Robert G.
Published: August 2013

In aquatic birds, influenza A viruses mainly replicate in the intestinal tract without significantly affecting the health of the host, but in mammals, they replicate in the respiratory tract and often cause disease. Occasionally, influenza viruses have been detected in stool samples of hospitalized patients and in rectal swabs of naturally or experimentally infected mammals. In this study, we compared the biological and molecular differences among four wild-type avian H1N1 influenza viruses and their corresponding fecal and lung isolates in DBA/2J and BALB/cJ mice. All fecal and lung isolates were more pathogenic than the original wild-type viruses, when inoculated into mice of both strains. The increased virulence was associated with the acquisition of genetic mutations. Most of the novel genotypes emerged as PB2
E627K
, HA
F128V
, HA
F454L
, or HA
H300P
variations, and double mutations frequently occurred in the same isolate. However, influenza virus strain- and host-specific differences were also observed in terms of selected variants. The avian H1N1 virus of shorebird origin appeared to be unique in its ability to rapidly adapt to BALB/cJ mice via the fecal route, compared to the adaptability of the H1N1 virus of mallard origin. Furthermore, a bimodal distribution in fecal shedding was observed in mice infected with the fecal isolates, while a normal distribution was observed after infection with the lung isolates or wild-type virus. Fecal isolates contained HA mutations that increased the activation pH of the HA protein. We conclude that influenza virus variants that emerge in fecal isolates in mammals might influence viral transmission, adaptation to mammals, and viral ecology or evolution.
Dynamics of Cytokine/Chemokine Responses in Intestinal CD4+and CD8+T Cells during Acute Simian Immunodeficiency Virus Infection
Authors: Kenway-Lynch Carys S. , Das Arpita , Pan Diganta , Lackner Andrew A. , Pahar Bapi
Published: August 2013

Loss of intestinal CD4+T cells was associated with decreased production of several T-helper 1 (TH1) and TH2 cytokines and increased production of interleukin 17 (IL-17), gamma interferon (IFN-γ), CCL4, and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) by CD8+T cells 21 days after simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) infection in rhesus macaques. Shifting of mucosal TH1 to TH2 or T-cytotoxic 1 (TC1) to TC2 cytokine profiles was not evident. Additionally, both CD4+and CD8+T cells showed upregulation of macrophage migration inhibition factor (MIF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF-basic) cytokines that have been linked to HIV disease progression.
Generation of Multiple Replication-Competent Retroviruses through Recombination between PreXMRV-1 and PreXMRV-2
Authors: Delviks-Frankenberry Krista , Paprotka Tobias , Cingöz Oya , Wildt Sheryl , Hu Wei-Shau , Coffin John M. , Pathak Vinay K.
Published: August 2013

We previously identified two novel endogenous murine leukemia virus proviruses, PreXMRV-1 and PreXMRV-2, and showed that they most likely recombined during xenograft passaging of a human prostate tumor in mice to generate xenotropic murine leukemia virus-related virus (XMRV). To determine the recombination potential of PreXMRV-1 and PreXMRV-2, we examined the generation of replication-competent retroviruses (RCRs) over time in a cell culture system. We observed that either virus alone was noninfectious and the RNA transcripts of the viruses were undetectable in the blood and spleen of nude mice that carry them. To determine their potential to generate RCRs through recombination, we transfected PreXMRV-1 and PreXMRV-2 into 293T cells and used the virus produced to infect fresh cells; the presence of reverse transcriptase activity at 10 days postinfection indicated the presence of RCRs. Population sequencing of proviral DNA indicated that all RCRs contained the
gag
and 5′ half of
pol
from PreXMRV-2 and the long terminal repeat, 3′ half of
pol
(including integrase), and
env
from PreXMRV-1. All crossovers were within sequences of at least 9 identical nucleotides, and crossovers within each of two selected recombination zones of 415 nucleotides (nt) in the 5′ untranslated region and 982 nt in
pol
were required to generate RCRs. A recombinant with the same genotype as XMRV was not detected, and our analysis indicates that the probability of generating an identical RCR is vanishingly small. In addition, the studies indicate that the process of RCR formation is primarily driven by selection for viable
cis
and
trans
elements from the parental proviruses.
Varicella-Zoster Virus Open Reading Frame 48 Encodes an Active Nuclease
Authors: Mueller Niklaus H. , Gilden Don , Cohrs Randall J.
Published: August 2013

Based on a DNA sequence and relative genomic position similar to those other herpesviruses, varicella-zoster virus (VZV) open reading frame 48 (ORF48) is predicted to encode an alkaline nuclease. Here we report the cloning, expression, purification, and characterization of recombinant VZV ORF48 protein and a VZV ORF48 point mutation (T172P). Protein encoded by wild-type ORF48, but not mutant protein, displayed both endo- and exonuclease activity, identifying ORF48 as a potential therapeutic target in VZV disease since efficient viral replication requires viral nuclease activity.
Three-center molecular integrals and derivatives using solid harmonic Gaussian orbital and Kohn–Sham potential basis sets
Authors: Hu Anguang , Dunlap Brett I.
Published: August 2013

Three-center integrals over Gaussian orbital and Kohn–Sham (KS) basis sets are reviewed. An orbital basis function carries angular momentum about its atomic center. That angular momentum is created by solid harmonic differentiation with respect to the center of an s-type basis function. That differentiation can be brought outside any purely s-type integral, even nonlocal pseudopotential integrals. Thus the angular factors associated with angular momentum and differentiation with respect to atom position can be pulled outside loops over orbital and KS Gaussian exponents.
Thermal QCD deconfining phase transition in a finite volume within color-singletness and excluded volume effects: a finite size scaling analysis using cumulants
Authors: Ait El Djoudi Amel
Published: August 2013

We study the properties of the deconfining phase transition for a finite-volume system in which the hadronic and quark–gluon plasma phases coexist and the finite extensions of the hadrons are taken into account. Finite-size effects are examined by probing the behavior of some useful response functions near the transition, and scaling exponents are determined using a finite-size scaling (FSS) analysis. For the shift scaling exponent, the finite-size transition point is determined from several definitions, and we propose new ways of defining this quantity, using cumulants of the probability distribution. Our study shows that the deconfining phase transition stays first-order, the scaling exponents being equal to unity. This result is consistent with the predictions of the standard FSS theoretical approaches to a first-order phase transition, and with results using Monte Carlo methods in lattice QCD and other models in statistical physics.
DISEASE SPREADING MODEL WITH PARTIAL ISOLATION
Authors: CHAKRABORTY ABHIJIT , MANNA S. S.
Published: August 2013

The effect of partial isolation has been studied in disease spreading processes using the framework of susceptible-infected-susceptible (SIS) and susceptible-infected-recovered (SIR) models. The partial isolation is introduced by imposing a restriction: each infected individual can probabilistically infect up to a maximum number n of his susceptible neighbors, but not all. It has been observed that the critical values of the spreading rates for endemic states are non-zero in both models and decrease as 1/n with n, on all graphs including scale-free graphs. In particular, the SIR model with n = 2 turned out to be a special case, characterized by a new bond percolation threshold on square lattice.
EFFECT OF La2O3 ADDITION ON MICROSTRUCTURE AND WEAR BEHAVIOR OF ELECTROSPARK DEPOSITED Ni-BASED COATINGS
Authors: YUXIN GAO , JIAN YI
Published: August 2013

La 2 O 3 doped Ni -based coatings have been prepared by electrospark deposition technique. The effect of La 2 O 3 on the microstructure, hardness and wear behavior of the as-prepared Ni -based coatings is investigated by using X-ray diffractometer, scanning electron microscope, wear tribometer and Vickers hardness tester. Results indicates that the microstructure, hardness and wear resistance of La 2 O 3 doped Ni -based coatings are effectively improved as compared to the undoped one, and the coating with the addition of 2.5 wt.% La 2 O 3 shows the optimal improvement effects. The addition of La 2 O 3 can reduce the defects, refine grains and increase hardness of the coating, which can inhibit the nucleation and propagation of cracking, consequently resist cutting and fracture during the wear process. Moreover, the addition of La 2 O 3 leads to changes in abrasion mechanism of the coatings, and the reasons resulting in different abrasion mechanisms are discussed.
EXAMINING HIGHER EDUCATION-COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS THROUGH HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT: IMPLICATIONS FOR INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY MANAGEMENT
Authors: AKDERE MESUT , EGAN TOBY
Published: August 2013

Higher education and community partnerships have transitioned from casual relationships to more of a mandate with the advancements in technology and globalization. The result of this large-scale change has led to an increase in these efforts, but the relationships are still emerging. Using survey research and the human resource development (HRD) perspective, we explore higher education and community partnerships, assesses their challenges, and discusses potential contributions of such partnerships in community development. This article contributes to our understanding of how these partnerships interact and what strategies the field of HRD may offer to advance such collaborative efforts.
DYNAMIC PULL-IN INSTABILITY AND VIBRATION ANALYSIS OF A NONLINEAR MICROCANTILEVER GYROSCOPE UNDER STEP VOLTAGE CONSIDERING SQUEEZE FILM DAMPING
Authors: MOJAHEDI M. , AHMADIAN M. T. , FIROOZBAKHSH K.
Published: August 2013

In this paper, a nonlinear model is used to analyze the dynamic pull-in instability and vibrational behavior of a microcantilever gyroscope. The gyroscope has a proof mass at its end and is subjected to nonlinear squeeze film damping, step DC voltages as well as base rotation excitation. The electrostatically actuated and detected microgyroscopes are subjected to coupled flexural-flexural vibrations that are related by base rotation. In order to detune the stiffness and natural frequencies of the system, DC voltages are applied to the proof mass electrodes in drive and sense directions. Nonlinear integro differential equations of the system are derived using extended Hamilton principle considering nonlinearities in curvature, inertia, damping and electrostatic forces. Afterward, the Gelerkin decomposition method is implemented to reduce partial differential equations of microgyroscope deflection to a system of nonlinear ordinary equations. By using the 4th order Runge–Kutta method, the nonlinear ordinary equations are solved for various values of damping coefficients, air pressures, base rotation and various initial gaps between the proof mass electrodes and the substrates. Results show that the geometric nonlinearity increases the dynamic pull-in voltage and also consideration of the base rotation gives an improved evaluation of the dynamic instability. It is shown that the squeeze film damping has a considerable influence on the dynamic deflection of the microgyroscopes.
HECKE-TYPE CONGRUENCES FOR ANDREWS' SPT-FUNCTION MODULO 16 AND 32
Authors: GARVAN FRANK G. , JENNINGS-SHAFFER CHRIS
Published: August 2013

Inspired by recent congruences by Andersen with varying powers of 2 in the modulus for partition related functions, we extend the modulo 32760 congruences of the first author for the function spt (n). We show that a normalized form of the generating function of spt (n) is an eigenform modulo 32 for the Hecke operators T(ℓ2) for primes ℓ ≥ 5 with ℓ ≡ 1, 11, 17, 19 (mod 24), and an eigenform modulo 16 for ℓ ≡ 13, 23 (mod 24).
POLYNOMIALS WITH MULTIPLE ROOTS AT 1
Authors: DUBICKAS ARTŪRAS
Published: August 2013

We prove that every polynomial P(x) = 1 + a1x + ⋯ + adxd∈ ℂ[x] has a root at x = 1 of order at most [Formula: see text], where ε > 0, provided that the quantities H*(P) = max1 ≤ j ≤ d|aj| and d/ log H*(P) are sufficiently large (the order of the root of P at x = 1 is zero if P(1) ≠ 0). In case when H*(P) is large compared to d this result with the constant 2 follows from an old result of Schur. We also show that the curious constant [Formula: see text] cannot be replaced by a constant smaller than [Formula: see text]. Similar results (with explicit constants) are obtained in terms of L2-norm of P.
EULER CHARACTERISTIC OF Λ-ADIC FORMS OVER KUMMER EXTENSIONS
Authors: SHEKHAR SUDHANSHU
Published: August 2013

In this paper we compute the Euler characteristic of the Selmer groups associated to modular forms over certain Kummer extensions of the field of rational numbers. We also discuss the Euler characteristic of Λ-adic deformations of Galois representations associated to modular forms.
ZEROS OF WEAKLY HOLOMORPHIC MODULAR FORMS OF LEVEL 4
Authors: HADDOCK ANDREW , JENKINS PAUL
Published: August 2013

Let [Formula: see text] be the space of weakly holomorphic modular forms of weight k and level 4 that are holomorphic away from the cusp at ∞. We define a canonical basis for this space and show that for almost all of the basis elements, the majority of their zeros in a fundamental domain for Γ0(4) lie on the lower boundary of the fundamental domain. Additionally, we show that the Fourier coefficients of the basis elements satisfy an interesting duality property.
CONVOLUTION IDENTITIES AND THEIR STRUCTURE
Authors: HUANG I-CHIAU
Published: August 2013

For certain sequences of numbers, we show that their convolution identities come from a parametrization of a variety equipped with a vector field. A Weyl algebra and the universal enveloping algebra of a Lie algebra appear in the framework.
THE DISTRIBUTION OF r-FREE NUMBERS IN ARITHMETIC PROGRESSIONS
Authors: GIBSON JASON
Published: August 2013

Let r ≥ 2. A positive integer n is called r-free if n is not divisible by the r th power of a prime. Generalizing an earlier work of Orr, we provide an upper bound of Bombieri–Vinogradov type for the r-free numbers in arithmetic progressions.
SPECIALIZATIONS OF GENERALIZED RIKUNA POLYNOMIALS
Authors: CULLINAN JOHN , CASS CELESTE , RASMUSSEN ALEXANDER , TRIFUNOVSKI DARKO
Published: August 2013

The generalized Rikuna polynomials are an iterative generalization of Rikuna's generic cyclic polynomials, which themselves generalize Shanks' cubic polynomials. In this paper we study Galois properties of the generalized Rikuna polynomials under specialization.