bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coexistence of short- and long-range ferromagnetic order in La0.7Sr0.3Mn1−xCoxO3 compounds
Authors: Thanh Tran Dang , Linh Dinh Chi , Manh T. V. , Ho T. A. , Phan The-Long , Yu S. C.
Published: January 2015

Polycrystalline La0.7Sr0.3Mn1−xCoxO3 (x = 0.0–1.0) samples were synthesized by solid-state reaction. Structural and magnetization studies reveal the replacement of Co for Mn in La0.7Sr0.3Mn1−xCoxO3, and the decrease of the Curie temperature (TC) from 360 K (for x = 0) to 224 K (for x = 1). Positive slopes observed in the H/M versus M2 curves prove all the samples undergo a second-order magnetic phase transition. By analysis of the M(H) data at temperatures around TC using the Kouvel-Fisher method, we obtained the values of critical parameters (TC, β, γ, and δ). The results suggest an existence of short-range FM order in the sample x = 0 with β = 0.377. Meanwhile, for the case of Co-doped samples, their β values in the range of 0.403–0.457 indicate a coexistence of short and long-range FM order. This means that Co-doping favors establishing FM long-range order in La0.7Sr0.3Mn1−xCoxO3. From M(H) data, we have also determined the magnetic entropy change (ΔSm) for the samples. We have found that the ΔSm(T) curves for different applied fields are collapsed onto a universal curve by normalizing the ΔSm(T) curves to their respective maximum value ΔSmax (i.e., ΔSm(T)/ΔSmax) and rescaling the temperature axis above and below TC with θ=(T−TC)/(Tr−TC), where Tr is the reference temperature.
Ten years of hospitalisation for oral health-related conditions in Western Australia: an unjust dichotomy
Authors: Kruger Estie , Tennant Marc
Published: January 2015

The objective of this study was: (1) to examine the demographics of in-patient oral health care by Aboriginal status; (2) to identify the mix of oral conditions by Aboriginal status; and (3) to describe trends over a 10-year period, comparing Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal groups. Hospitalisation data were obtained from the Western Australian Morbidity Data System (HMDS). The principal diagnosis, as classified by the International Classification of Disease (ICD-10AM), was obtained for every episode for adult patients who were discharged from all hospitals in Western Australia (WA) for the financial years 1999–2000 to 2008–09. Results indicated that more than 130 000 persons were admitted to hospitals in WA over 10 years, for oral health-related conditions, at a direct cost of more than $400 million. Most of those admitted were younger than 30 years, and 2.8% of all those admitted were Aboriginal people. Aboriginal people were admitted at significantly higher rates, for a very different mix of conditions, they were mostly from younger age groups, were mostly from very remote and the most disadvantaged areas and were almost all uninsured, compared with non-Aboriginal people. Hospital admissions for oral health-related conditions, as well as the mix of conditions that drive these hospitalisations, are strongly divided across social, racial and geographic variables, and remain a burden to the health-care system.
Predation of two common native frog species (Litoria ewingi and Crinia signifera) by freshwater invertebrates
Authors: Wilson Natasha J. , Seymour Jamie E. , Williams Craig R.
Published: January 2015

The primary aim of this study was to identify aquatic invertebrate predators of amphibian eggs and tadpoles in an area of South Australia. The presence and abundance of aquatic invertebrates was monitored at four field sites for a period of 5–6 months; this revealed notonectids, freshwater crayfish and odonates to be amongst the most common invertebrate predator types. The ability of these predators to consume eggs and tadpoles of the native Australian frogs Litoria ewingi and Crinia signifera was then investigated. Freshwater crayfish (Cherax destructor) were the most prolific consumers of frog eggs and tadpoles. The notonectid Enithares woodwardi significantly impacted tadpole survivorship for both species while Anisops sp. was less successful at capturing and consuming these tadpoles. Caddisfly nymphs (Lectrides varians and Leptorussa darlingtoni) reduced egg survivorship but not to the same extent as C. destructor. Unlike some predators, which prey upon particular life stages, freshwater crayfish are large, polytrophic omnivores that can act as important predators of both anuran eggs and tadpoles. Given that predation is a key source of mortality in juveniles, identification of likely common predators is useful for understanding the regulation of amphibian populations.
The NMR–Rosetta capsid model of M13 bacteriophage reveals a quadrupled hydrophobic packing epitope
Authors: Morag Omry , Sgourakis Nikolaos G. , Baker David , Goldbourt Amir
Published: January 2015

Significance

We present an atomic-resolution structure of the M13 filamentous bacteriophage capsid, one of many filamentous viruses that play important roles in many areas of research. The model was obtained by combining magic-angle spinning NMR and Rosetta modeling, used for the first time, to our knowledge, to derive the atomic structure of an intact virus capsid. The structure is made up of thousands of identical helical subunits stabilized by repeating hydrophobic pockets, which serve as a locking motif, suggesting a direct role in phage particle assembly. Analysis of various phage sequences suggests the presence of a conserved design principle for helical capsids. Because the current method does not rely on any particular preparation procedure, it can be applied to other viral capsids and molecular assemblies.
Newly isolated Penicillium oxalicum A592-4B secretes enzymes that degrade milled rice straw with high efficiency
Authors: Aoyama Akihisa , Kurane Ryuichiro , Matsuura Akira , Nagai Kazuo
Published: January 2015

An enzyme producing micro-organism, which can directly saccharify rice straw that has only been crushed without undergoing the current acid or alkaline pretreatment, was found. From the homology with the ITS, 28S rDNA sequence, the strain named A592-4B was identified as Penicillium oxalicum. Activities of the A592-4B enzymes and commercial enzyme preparations were compared by Novozymes Cellic CTec2 and Genencore GC220. In the present experimental condition, activity of A592-4B enzymes was 2.6 times higher than that of CTec2 for degrading milled rice straw. Furthermore, even when a quarter amount of A592-4B enzyme was applied to the rice straw, the conversion rate was still higher than that by CTec2. By utilizing A592-4B enzymes, improved lignocellulose degradation yields can be achieved without pre-treatment of the substrates; thus, contributing to cost reduction as well as reducing environmental burden.
Parasitoids and Dipteran Predators Exploit Volatiles from Microbial Symbionts to Locate Bark Beetles
Authors: Boone Celia K. , Six Diana L. , Zheng Yanbing , Raffa Kenneth F.
Published: January 2015

Host location by parasitoids and dipteran predators of bark beetles is poorly understood. Unlike coleopteran predators that locate prey by orienting to prey pheromones, wasps and flies often attack life stages not present until after pheromone production ceases. Bark beetles have important microbial symbionts, which could provide sources of cues. We tested host trees, trees colonized by beetles and symbionts, and trees colonized by symbionts alone for attractiveness to hymenopteran parasitoids and dipteran predators. Field studies were conducted with Ips pini in Montana. Three pteromalid wasps were predominant. All were associated with the second and third instars of I. pini. Heydenia unica was more attracted to logs colonized by either I. pini or the fungus Ophiostoma ips than logs alone or blank controls (screen with no log). Rhopalicus pulchripennis was more attracted to logs colonized by I. pini than logs alone or blank controls. Dibrachys cavus was attracted to logs but did not distinguish whether or not they were colonized. Two dolichopodid predators were predominant. A Medetera species was more attracted to colonized than uncolonized logs and more attracted to logs than blank controls. It was also more attracted to logs colonized with the yeast Pichia scolyti than uncolonized logs, but attraction was less consistent. An unidentified dolichopodid was more attracted to logs colonized with I. pini, O. ips, and the bacteria Burkholderia sp., than to uncolonized logs. It was also attracted to uncolonized logs. Its responses were less consistent and pronounced than H. unica. These results suggest some parasitoids and dipteran predators exploit microbial symbionts of bark beetles to locate hosts. Overall, specialists showed strong attraction to fungal cues, whereas generalists were more attracted by plant volatiles. These results also show how microbial symbionts can have conflicting effects on host fitness.
Fine-Scale Genetic Population Structure of Southern Pine Beetle (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) in Mississippi Forests
Authors: Schrey Natalie M. , Schrey Aaron W. , Heist Edward J. , Reeve John D.
Published: January 2015

The southern pine beetle, Dendroctonus frontalis Zimmerman, is the most destructive insect pest of pine forests in the southeastern United States, Mexico, and Central America. Southern pine beetle aggressively attacks pine trees, and when in epidemic stages, they are capable of killing even the most healthy pine trees in a short period of time. Despite the amount of destruction caused by the southern pine beetle and the amount of monetary loss faced by the timber industry and recreation, the population genetics of this species has been limited to comparisons among distant geographic locations. This study investigates the fine-scale genetic population structure of the southern pine beetle in Mississippi. Very little genetic differentiation was observed among samples. Bayesian assignment testing failed to detect multiple groups within all samples; estimates of genetic differentiation and genetic distance were very low in magnitude; and a Mantel test did not reveal a significant relationship between genetic distance and geographic distance. These results suggest that management of the southern pine beetle needs to consider the potential movements of individuals within and among national forests and should be focused on a large scale, at least as big as continuously forested areas and possibly even multiple forests. These results further suggest that removal of beetle-infested trees is important.
Exploring the association between resistance and outpatient antibiotic use expressed as DDDs or packages
Authors: Bruyndonckx Robin , Hens Niel , Aerts Marc , Goossens Herman , Cortiñas Abrahantes José , Coenen Samuel
Published: January 2015

Objectives

The objective of this study was to explore the association between resistance and outpatient antibiotic use, expressed as either DDDs per 1000 inhabitants per day (DID) or packages per 1000 inhabitants per day (PID).

Methods

IMS Health data on outpatient penicillin and cephalosporin (β-lactam) and tetracycline, macrolide, lincosamide and streptogramin (TMLS) use, aggregated at the level of the active substance (WHO version 2011) expressed as DID and PID (2000–07) were linked to European Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance System (EARSS) data on proportions of penicillin-non-susceptible Streptococcus pneumoniae (PNSP) and erythromycin-non-susceptible S. pneumoniae (ENSP) (2000–09). Combined data for 27 European countries were analysed with a generalized linear mixed model. Model fit for use in DID, PID or both and 0, 1 or 2 year time lags between use and resistance was assessed and predictions of resistance were made for decreasing use expressed as DID, PID or both.

Results

When exploring the association between β-lactam use and PNSP, the best model fit was obtained for use in PID without time lag. For the association between TMLS use and ENSP, the best model fit was obtained for use in both PID and DID with a 1 year time lag. PNSP and ENSP are predicted to decrease when use decreases in PID, but not when use decreases in DID.

Conclusions

Associations between outpatient antibiotic use and resistance and predictions of resistance were inconsistent whether expressing antibiotic use as DID or PID. We recommend that data on antibiotic use be expressed as PID and that time lags between use and resistance be considered when exploring these associations.
Walking on a moving surface: energy-optimal walking motions on a shaky bridge and a shaking treadmill can reduce energy costs below normal
Authors: Joshi Varun , Srinivasan Manoj
Published: January 2015

Understanding how humans walk on a surface that can move might provide insights into, for instance, whether walking humans prioritize energy use or stability. Here, motivated by the famous human-driven oscillations observed in the London Millennium Bridge, we introduce a minimal mathematical model of a biped, walking on a platform (bridge or treadmill) capable of lateral movement. This biped model consists of a point-mass upper body with legs that can exert force and perform mechanical work on the upper body. Using numerical optimization, we obtain energy-optimal walking motions for this biped, deriving the periodic body and platform motions that minimize a simple metabolic energy cost. When the platform has an externally imposed sinusoidal displacement of appropriate frequency and amplitude, we predict that body motion entrained to platform motion consumes less energy than walking on a fixed surface. When the platform has finite inertia, a mass- spring-damper with similar parameters to the Millennium Bridge, we show that the optimal biped walking motion sustains a large lateral platform oscillation when sufficiently many people walk on the bridge. Here, the biped model reduces walking metabolic cost by storing and recovering energy from the platform, demonstrating energy benefits for two features observed for walking on the Millennium Bridge: crowd synchrony and large lateral oscillations.
Chimpanzees trust conspecifics to engage in low-cost reciprocity
Authors: Engelmann Jan M. , Herrmann Esther , Tomasello Michael
Published: January 2015

Many of humans' most important social interactions rely on trust, including most notably among strangers. But little is known about the evolutionary roots of human trust. We presented chimpanzees (
Pan troglodytes
) with a modified version of the human trust game—trust in reciprocity—in which subjects could opt either to obtain a small but safe reward on their own or else to send a larger reward to a partner and trust her to reciprocate a part of the reward that she could not access herself. In a series of three studies, we found strong evidence that in interacting with a conspecific, chimpanzees show spontaneous trust in a novel context; flexibly adjust their level of trust to the trustworthiness of their partner and develop patterns of trusting reciprocity over time. At least in some contexts then, trust in reciprocity is not unique to humans, but rather has its evolutionary roots in the social interactions of humans' closest primate relatives.
Knowledge generation in online forums: a case study in the German educational domain
Authors: Griesbaum Joachim , Mahrholz Nadine , von Löwe Kiedrowski Kim , Rittberger Marc
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to get a first approximation of the usefulness of online forums with regard to information seeking and knowledge generation.

Design/methodology/approach

– This study captures the characteristics of knowledge generation by examining the pragmatics and types of information needs of posted questions and by investigating knowledge related characteristics of discussion posts as well as the success of communication. Three online forums were examined. The data set consists of 55 threads, containing 533 posts which were categorized manually by two researchers.

Findings

– Results show that questioners often ask for personal estimations. Information needs often aim for actionable insights or uncertainty reduction. With regard to answers, factual information is the dominant content type and has the highest knowledge value as it is the strongest predictor with regard to the generation of new knowledge. Opinions are also relevant, but in a rather subsequent and complementary way. Emotional aspects are scarcely observed. Overall, results indicate that knowledge creation predominantly follows a socio-cultural paradigm of knowledge exchange.

Research limitations/implications

– Although the investigation captures important aspects of knowledge building processes, the measurement of the forums’ knowledge value is still rather limited. Success is only partly measurable with the current scheme. The central coding category “new topical knowledge” is only of nominal value and therefore not able to compare different kinds of knowledge gains in the course of discussion.

Originality/value

– The investigation reaches out beyond studies that do not consider that the role and relevance of posts is dependent on the state of the discussion. Furthermore, the paper integrates two perspectives of knowledge value: the success of the questioner with regard to the expressed information need and the knowledge building value for communicants and readers.
A vision-based fully-automatic calibration method for hand-eye serial robot
Authors: Wang Haixia , Lu Xiao , Hu Zhanyi , Li Yuxia
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to present a fully automatic calibration method for hand-eye serial robot system is presented in this paper. The so-called “fully automatic” is meant to calibrate the robot body, the hand-eye relation, and the used measuring binocular system at the same time.

Design/methodology/approach

– The calibration is done by controlling the joints to rotate several times one by one in the reverse order (i.e. from the last one to the first one), and simultaneously take pictures of the checkerboard patterns by the stereo camera system attached on the end-effector, then the whole robot system can be calibrated automatically from these captured images. In addition, a nonlinear optimization step is used to further refine the calibration results.

Findings

– The proposed method is essentially based on an improved screw axis identification method, and it needs only a mirror and some paper checkerboard patterns without resorting to any additional costly measuring instrument.

Originality/value

– Simulations and real experiments on MOTOMAN-UP6 robot system demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method.
Robotic exoskeletons: a review of recent progress
Authors: Bogue Robert
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– This article aims to provide details of recent robotic exoskeleton developments and applications.

Design/methodology/approach

– Following an introduction, this article first considers some of the technological issues associated with an exoskeleton design. It then discusses military developments, industrial load-carrying applications and uses in healthcare. Progress in thought-controlled exoskeletons is discussed briefly, and finally, concluding comments are drawn.

Findings

– This article shows that, while military interests continue, the dominant application is to restore or enhance mobility to individuals suffering from disabilities or injuries. An emerging use is to increase the strength and endurance of industrial workers. The majority are lower-limb devices, although some full-body exoskeletons have been developed, and most rely on battery-powered electric motors to create motion. Reflecting the anticipated growth in applications, exoskeletons are now available from, or under development by, a growing number of commercial organisations.

Originality/value

– This provides an insight into the latest developments in robotic exoskeletons and their applications.
The impact of innovation capability on the performance of manufacturing companies
Authors: Kafetzopoulos Dimitrios , Psomas Evangelos
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to provide additional evidence of the impact of innovation on three dimensions of a firm’s performance, namely product quality, operational performance and financial performance.

Design/methodology/approach

– The analysis includes an initial exploratory factor analysis, followed by confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling, in order to investigate the relations between the constructs of the proposed model. A sample of 233 Greek manufacturing firms is used for this purpose.

Findings

– According to the study findings, “innovation capability” directly contributes to product quality and operational performance. Although it has no direct impact on manufacturing firms’ financial performance, it has an indirect impact through the moderator of operational performance. Thus, innovation is an opportunity for a manufacturing firm to improve its performance.

Research limitations/implications

– The sample of the responding manufacturing companies is limited to small and medium-sized enterprises from one country (Greece). In addition, manufacturing firms from different sectors have different resources, capabilities and performance.

Practical implications

– The study offers clear implications for managers who should put additional emphasis on innovation as it is an important element for achieving improved overall firm performance and sustainable competitive power.

Originality/value

– Based on the multi-dimensional structure of innovation, this empirical study determines the contribution of “innovation capability” to specific performance dimensions of manufacturing companies.
Novel method for rapid reversal of drug toxicity: A case report
Authors: Tatlow Dean , Poothencheri Sreeja , Bhangal Ranjit , Tatlow Corinne
Published: January 2015

Drug toxicity is traditionally treated by reducing the amount of the drug absorbed, enhancing elimination, and providing supportive care. Once the drug has been absorbed, there are few methods that help decrease morbidity and mortality caused by a toxic drug level. Albumin infusion is a new approach that changes that, as it can rapidly reverse a toxic drug level back to a therapeutic level. It is believed with most drugs that the toxic effects are related to the total amount of the free drug. In this method, albumin binds to the free drug and acts as a reservoir or depot from which the drug is slowly released to the free form, thereby limiting the effects of drug toxicity. In this case report, an elderly female patient who experienced phenytoin toxicity was treated with albumin infusion, after which her phenytoin level returned to a therapeutic level with corresponding improvements in her symptoms. Based on our calculations, it was predicted that a small amount of albumin would reverse the patient's toxic symptoms. With this approach, the patient's toxic symptoms improved when free phenytoin levels dropped from 15 to 8 μmol/L. Albumin infusion is a promising new therapy that can rapidly reverse a toxic drug level back to a therapeutic level by binding the free drug to albumin.
Assessment of Maceration Techniques Used to Remove Soft Tissue from Bone in Cut Mark Analysis
Authors: King Christine , Birch Wendy
Published: January 2015

Maceration techniques employed in forensics must be effective without compromising the bone's integrity and morphology, and prevent destruction of evidence. Techniques must also be fast, safe, easily obtainable and inexpensive; not all techniques currently employed are appropriate for forensic use. To evaluate the most suitable approach, seven techniques including current and new methodologies were applied to fresh, fleshed porcine ribs exhibiting cut marks. A sample size of 30 specimens per technique was examined under scanning electron microscopy at the cut mark and the surrounding uncompromised regions; a scoring system of effectiveness was applied. The previously unpublished microwave method fared best for bone and cut mark preservation. Sodium hypochlorite destroyed cut marks, and was deemed unsuitable for forensic analysis. No single technique fulfilled all criteria; however, this study provides a benchmark for forensic anthropologists to select the most appropriate method for their situation, while maintaining the high standards required by forensic science.
Novel approach to systematic random sampling in population surveys: Lessons from the United Arab Emirates National Diabetes Study (UAEDIAB)
Authors: Sulaiman Nabil , Albadawi Salah , Abusnana Salah , Fikri Mahmoud , Madani Abdulrazzag , Mairghani Maisoon , Alawadi Fatheya , Zimmet Paul , Shaw Jonathan
Published: January 2015

Background

The prevalence of diabetes has risen rapidly in the Middle East, particularly in the Gulf Region. However, some prevalence estimates have not fully accounted for large migrant worker populations and have focused on minority indigenous populations. The objectives of the UAE National Diabetes and Lifestyle Study are to: (i) define the prevalence of, and risk factors for, T2DM; (ii) describe the distribution and determinants of T2DM risk factors; (iii) study health knowledge, attitudes, and (iv) identify gene–environment interactions; and (v) develop baseline data for evaluation of future intervention programs.

Methods

Given the high burden of diabetes in the region and the absence of accurate data on non‐UAE nationals in the UAE, a representative sample of the non‐UAE nationals was essential. We used an innovative methodology in which non‐UAE nationals were sampled when attending the mandatory biannual health check that is required for visa renewal. Such an approach could also be used in other countries in the region.

Results

Complete data were available for 2719 eligible non‐UAE nationals (25.9% Arabs, 70.7% Asian non‐Arabs, 1.1% African non‐Arabs, and 2.3% Westerners). Most were men < 65 years of age. The response rate was 68%, and the non‐response was greater among women than men; 26.9% earned less than UAE Dirham (AED) 24 000 (US$6500) and the most common areas of employment were as managers or professionals, in service and sales, and unskilled occupations. Most (37.4%) had completed high school and 4.1% had a postgraduate degree.

Conclusion

This novel methodology could provide insights for epidemiological studies in the UAE and other Gulf States, particularly for expatriates.
Nutritional supplements in age‐related macular degeneration
Authors: Schmidl Doreen , Garhöfer Gerhard , Schmetterer Leopold
Published: January 2015

Age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most frequent cause of blindness in theWesternWorld. While with new therapies that are directed towards vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a potentially efficient treatment option for the wet form of the disease has been introduced, a therapeutic regimen for dryAMDis still lacking. There is evidence from several studies that oral intake of supplements is beneficial in preventing progression of the disease. Several formulations of micronutrients are currently available. The present review focuses on the role of supplements in the treatment and prevention ofAMDand sums up the current knowledge about the most frequently used micronutrients. In addition, regulatory issues are discussed, and future directions for the role of supplementation inAMDare highlighted.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Strictosamide Derivatives with Improved Antiviral and Antiproliferative Activities
Authors: Li Zan , Li Zhaoliang , Lin Yunwei , Meng Zhaoqing , Ding Gang , Cao Liang , Li Na , Liu Wenjun , Xiao Wei , Wu Xiaoming , Xu Jinyi
Published: January 2015

A series of novel derivatives of strictosamide were synthesized and biologically evaluated. Most of the new compounds exhibited improved activities than the parent compound strictosamide. Among them, compounds Ib and If possessed antiviral activities against influenza A virus (A/Jinan/15/90) with IC50 values of 4.12 and 12.35 μg/mL, respectively. Compound Ie possessed antiviral activity against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) with an IC50 value of 9.58 μg/mL. Both compounds IIc and IId had moderate antiproliferative effects against five human cancer cell lines. The preliminary structure‐activity relationships were also concluded. This study provides a promising new template with potential antiviral activity.
Distinct habitat selection by freshwater morays in tropical rainforest streams
Authors: Ebner Brendan C. , Fulton Christopher J. , Donaldson James A. , Schaffer Jason
Published: January 2015

Morays occupy unique interstitial habitats and function as key predators in marine ecosystems. Conversely, there is limited understanding of the ecology of Gymnothorax polyuranodon, the lone representative of the family Muraenidae known to reside in freshwater systems. In this study, we used field‐based encounters over a 3‐year period in three short–steep–coastal–streams of the Australian Wet Tropics to find that most G. polyuranodon individuals (74%) occupied pools, with very few individuals observed in run (23%) or riffle (3%) mesohabitats. Moreover, G. polyuranodon positively selected microhabitats of slow flow (<0.05 ms−1) and deep water (>80 cm), while avoiding high flows (>0.5 ms−1) and shallow water (<40 cm depth). Morays exhibited strong preferences for boulders (73% of the immediate stream bed area occupied relative to 36% availability) with most individuals resting directly underneath large or very large boulders. Collecting and compiling records of this rare and elusive species over the long‐term helped to reveal such habitat specialisation. Future management plans for G. polyuranodon should focus on preserving boulder interstices year‐round and maintaining stream‐sea connectivity to facilitate a diadromous life cycle.
Neuroticism and facial emotion recognition in healthy adults
Authors: Andric Sanja , Maric Nadja P. , Knezevic Goran , Mihaljevic Marina , Mirjanic Tijana , Velthorst Eva , van Os Jim
Published: January 2015

Aim

The aim of the present study was to examine whether healthy individuals with higher levels of neuroticism, a robust independent predictor of psychopathology, exhibit altered facial emotion recognition performance.

Methods

Facial emotion recognition accuracy was investigated in 104 healthy adults using the Degraded Facial Affect Recognition Task (DFAR). Participants' degree of neuroticism was estimated using neuroticism scales extracted from the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire and the Revised NEO Personality Inventory.

Results

A significant negative correlation between the degree of neuroticism and the percentage of correct answers on DFAR was found only for happy facial expression (significant after applying Bonferroni correction).

Conclusions

Altered sensitivity to the emotional context represents a useful and easy way to obtain cognitive phenotype that correlates strongly with inter‐individual variations in neuroticism linked to stress vulnerability and subsequent psychopathology. Present findings could have implication in early intervention strategies and staging models in psychiatry.
Duodenal volvulus as a cause of gastric rupture in a 15‐year‐old Warmblood gelding
Authors: Wulster K. , Dallap Schaer B. L.
Published: January 2015

Duodenal volvulus is an unreported cause of colic in the horse. This case report describes a 15‐year‐old Warmblood gelding evaluated for acute abdominal discomfort. Exploratory celiotomy revealed duodenal volvulus and gastric rupture resulting in severe, acute, septic peritonitis. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of a volvulus of the equine duodenum.
Microdialysis measurements of lamellar perfusion and energy metabolism during the development of laminitis in the oligofructose model
Authors: Medina‐Torres C. E. , Underwood C. , Pollitt C. C. , Castro‐Olivera E. M. , Hodson M. P. , Richardson D. W. , van Eps A. W.
Published: January 2015

Reasons for performing study

Failure of lamellar energy metabolism, with or without ischaemia, may be important in the pathophysiology of sepsis‐associated laminitis.

Objectives

To examine lamellar perfusion and energy balance during laminitis development in the oligofructose model using tissue microdialysis.

Study design

In vivoexperiment.

Methods

Six Standardbred horses underwent laminitis induction using the oligofructose model (OFTgroup) and 6 horses were untreated controls (CONgroup). Microdialysis probes were placed in the lamellar tissue of one forelimb (all horses) as well as the skin dermis of the tail inOFThorses. Dialysate and plasma samples were collected every 2 h for 24 h and concentrations of energy metabolites (glucose, lactate, pyruvate) and standard indices of energy metabolism (lactate to glucose ratio [L:G] and lactate to pyruvate ratio [L:P]) determined. Microdialysis urea clearance was used to estimate changes in tissue perfusion. Data were analysed nonparametrically.

Results

Median glucose concentration decreased to <30% of baseline by 8 h inOFTlamellar (P = <0.01) and skin (P<0.01) dialysate. Lactate increased mildly in skin dialysate (P = 0.04) and plasma (P = 0.05) but not lamellar dialysate inOFThorses. Median pyruvate concentration decreased to <50% of baseline inOFTlamellar dialysate (P = 0.03). A >5‐fold increase in median L:G compared with baseline occurred inOFTlamellar and skin dialysate (P<0.03). From a baseline of <20, medianL:Pincreased to a peak of 80 inOFTskin and 38.7 inOFTlamellar dialysates (P<0.02); however,OFTlamellar dialysate L:Pwas not significantly different fromCON. Urea concentration decreased significantly inOFTlamellar dialysate (increased urea clearance) but not inOFTskin orCONlamellar dialysate.

Conclusions

Increased lamellar perfusion occurred during the development of sepsis‐associated laminitis in the oligofructose model. Glucose concentrations in the lamellar interstitium decreased, suggesting increased glucose consumption but there was no definitive evidence of lamellar energy failure.
Promoting Family Resilience Through Evidence‐based Policy Making: Reconsidering the Link Between Adult–Infant Bedsharing and Infant Mortality
Authors: Gordon Rachel A. , Rowe Hillary L. , Garcia Karina
Published: January 2015

Evidence‐based policy making often has a direct or indirect goal of promoting family resilience. The authors consider the ways in which scholarly disagreements about evidence can challenge this goal, focusing on the debate regarding whether adult–infant bedsharing increases the risk of infant mortality. A central issue is whether scholars conclude that public policy should recommend against all bedsharing or only bedsharing in particular risky circumstances. The authors use context‐based evidence‐based policy making (Dobrow, Goel & Upshur, 2004) as a framework for a review of studies of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) correlates and SIDS mechanisms related to bedsharing as well as the reasons parents bed share. The authors discuss the implications of different interpretations of the evidence and point to the potential of adversarial collaboration in helping to address the points of disagreement and ultimately better support family resilience. The issues discussed in this case are broadly relevant to other debated evidence for family policy making.
Methodological Considerations in Studying Individual and Family Resilience
Authors: Card Noel A. , Barnett Melissa A.
Published: January 2015

This article considers four methodological issues in the study of family resilience. The first focus is on measurement, in which the psychometric properties of reliability, validity, and measurement equivalence are described. The second methodological consideration is on efforts to establish causality in the absence of experimental manipulation. Here, the authors present longitudinal panel models as a prototypical approach, describing the possibilities and challenges of this and other techniques toward inferences of causality, especially in the context of family resiliency. Third, the authors consider modeling resilience as continuous versus categorical, specifically contrasting variable‐centered versus person‐centered conceptualizations and analytic approaches. Fourth, the authors consider the complexities of studying family resilience due to the multilevel nature of the phenomena. The article concludes with recommendations for a diversity of methodological foci as the study of family resilience advances.
Anthocyanins as substrates for mitochondrial complex I – protective effect against heart ischemic injury
Authors: Skemiene Kristina , Liobikas Julius , Borutaite Vilmante
Published: January 2015

Anthocyanins, a subclass of flavonoids, are known to protect against myocardial ischemia; however, little is known about their direct, acute effects on mitochondria injured by the ischemic insult. In this study, the effects of delphinidin 3‐O‐glucoside (Dp3G), cyanidin 3‐O‐glucoside (Cy3G) and pelargonidin 3‐O‐glucoside (Pg3G) on the activity of complex I of the mitochondrial respiratory chain were studied in mitochondria isolated from normal rat hearts and rat hearts subjected to ischemia for 45 min. Cy3G and Dp3G increased the activity of complex I, measured in the presence or absence of coenzyme Q1 (CoQ1), in ischemia‐damaged mitochondria, whereas in nonischemic mitochondria the effect was observed only in the absence of CoQ1. Dp3G and Cy3G but not Pg3G increased state 3 respiration and ATP synthesis with NADH‐dependent substrates in mitochondria after ischemia. The results suggest that certain anthocyanins can act as electron acceptors at complex I, and bypass ischemia‐induced inhibition, resulting in increased ATP production after ischemia. This study provides new information on a possible role of certain anthocyanins in the regulation of energy metabolism in mammalian cells.
Intrinsic binding of 4‐substituted‐2,3,5,6‐tetrafluorobenezenesulfonamides to native and recombinant human carbonic anhydrase VI
Authors: Kazokaitė Justina , Milinavičiūtė Goda , Smirnovienė Joana , Matulienė Jurgita , Matulis Daumantas
Published: January 2015

Carbonic anhydrase (CA) VI is a potential drug target for cariogenesis and cancer of the salivary gland. It is the only secreted human CA isozyme which is found in saliva and milk. Here, CA VI was expressed in bacterial and mammalian cell cultures and directly affinity‐purified from human saliva. The binding of 4‐substituted‐2,3,5,6‐tetrafluorobenezenesulfonamides to the native and recombinant CA VI from these three sources was compared. Interaction between the enzyme and inhibitors was determined by fluorescent thermal shift assay and isothermal titration calorimetry. The observed dissociation constants were the same within the error margin for all three CA VI preparations. The intrinsic binding parameters for the compounds were obtained by determining and dissecting the binding‐linked protonation reactions. Intrinsic thermodynamic parameters of binding arrange the compounds in a buffer‐ and pH‐independent manner. Intrinsic binding constants of nonfluorinated compounds were significantly stronger than those of fluorinated benzenesulfonamides. An opposite result was determined for the observed binding constants. The increase in observed affinity of the fluorinated compounds was due to the fluorine effect on diminishing the pKa of the compounds but not due to direct recognition of the protein. The temperature–stability profiles for recombinant and native CA VI were compared and showed that CA VI is more stable in slightly acidic than neutral conditions.
HIV viraemia during hepatitis B vaccination shortens the duration of protective antibody levels
Authors: O'Bryan TA , Rini EA , Okulicz JF , Messner O , Ganesan A , Lalani T , Bavaro MF , O'Connell RJ , Agan BK , Landrum ML
Published: January 2015

Objectives

Individuals with HIV infection often have early waning of protective antibody following hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination. HIV viraemia at the time of vaccination may limit the durability of serum anti‐HBV surface antibody (HBsAb) levels. We investigated the relationship of HIV plasma viral load (VL) and duration of HBsAb among vaccinees enrolled in the US Military HIV Natural History Study.

Methods

We included in the study participants who had no history of prior HBV infection, who had received all HBV vaccine doses after HIV diagnosis, and who had demonstrated an initial vaccine response, defined as HBsAb ≥ 10 IU/L. Responders were retrospectively followed with serial HBV serology from the time of the last vaccine dose until the development of waning (HBsAb < 10 IU/L) or the last HBsAb measurement. Time to and risk for waning were evaluated with Kaplan−Meier survival methods and Cox proportional hazards models, respectively.

Results

A total of 186 initial vaccine responders were identified. During 570 person‐years of observation, HBsAb waned in 52 of 186 participants (28%). The cumulative proportion maintaining HBsAb ≥ 10 IU/L was 83% at 2 years and 56% at 5 years. Participants with an undetectable VL [hazard ratio (HR) 0.37; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.18–0.76] or with detectable VL of ≤ 10 000 copies/mL (HR 0.46; 95% CI 0.21–1.00) had reduced risk of waning. Other factors including age, number of vaccine doses, CD4 count, and receipt of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) were not significantly associated with risk of waning HBsAb.

Conclusions

Undetectable or low HIV VL at the time of HBV vaccination is associated with greater durability of vaccine response in patients with HIV infection.
Factors associated with risk of depression and relevant predictors of screening for depression in clinical practice: a cross‐sectional study among HIV‐infected individuals in Denmark
Authors: Slot M , Sodemann M , Gabel C , Holmskov J , Laursen T , Rodkjaer L
Published: January 2015

Objectives

Depression and psychiatric disorders are frequent among HIV‐infected individuals. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of depression and describe the psychiatric history of HIV‐infected individuals in an out‐patient clinic in Denmark and to identify factors of clinical importance that may be used to identify patients at risk of depression.

Methods

In 2013, 212 HIV‐infected patients were included in a questionnaire study. We used the Beck Depression Inventory II (BDI‐II) to assess the prevalence and severity of depressive symptoms. Patients with a BDI‐II score ≥ 20 were offered a clinical evaluation by a consultant psychiatrist. Logistic regression was used to determine predictors associated with risk of depression.

Results

Symptoms of depression (BDI‐II score ≥ 14) were observed in 75 patients (35%), and symptoms of moderate to major depression (BDI‐II score ≥ 20) in 55 patients (26%). There was also a high prevalence of co‐occurring mental illness. In a multivariate model, self‐reported stress, self‐reported perception that HIV infection affects all aspects of life, self‐reported poor health, not being satisfied with one's current life situation, previous alcohol abuse, nonadherence to antiretroviral therapy and previously having sought help because of psychological problems were independently associated with risk of depression.

Conclusions

Symptoms of depression and co‐occurring mental illness are under‐diagnosed and under‐treated among HIV‐infected individuals. We recommend that screening of depression should be conducted regularly to provide a full psychiatric profile to decrease the risk of depression and improve adherence and quality of life in this population.
High Chrome Refractory Characterization: Part I. Impact of Melt Reduction/Oxidation on the Corrosion Mechanism
Authors: Jantzen Carol M. , Imrich Kenneth J. , Brown Kevin G. , Pickett John B.
Published: January 2015

High Cr2O3 containing Monofrax™ K‐3 is a robust refractory that is used in the fiberglass industry and used in radioactive waste glass melters worldwide. Monofrax™ K‐3 is tolerant of transition metal oxides but contains highly reduced solid solutions of spinels, that is, (Mg,Fe2+)(Al,Cr)2O3. Conversely, many of the waste feeds being processed are highly oxidizing. The K‐3 refractory corrosion was tested in sealed crucibles starting with slurried melter feed instead of prereacted glass called for by ASTM C621. Testing the refractory coupon during the feed‐to‐glass conversion exposes the refractory to the oxidizing and reducing species being released during vitrification, for example, NO3−, NO2−, CO2, CO, O2. Corrosion rates measured in highly oxidizing (high nitrate) feeds were ~1.8–2.8 times higher than those determined using prereacted glass or reduced feeds. Confirmatory corrosion rates were measured on Monofrax™ K‐3 coupons immersed in oxidizing feed in a 1/100th‐scale HLW pilot‐scale melter. Corrosion is heterogeneous or incongruent as Ni and Fe in the waste glass exchange with Mg and Al in the refractory. An insoluble NiFe2O4 spinel corrosion product is formed that can build up a protective layer along the refractory walls or spall and settle to the melter floor depending on melt pool convection/agitation.
Utility and impact of early t(15;17) identification by Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) in clinical decision making for patients in Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia (APL)
Authors: Kolhe R. , Mangaonkar A. , Mansour J. , Clemmons A. , Shaw J. , Dupont B. , Walczak L. , Mondal A. , Rojiani A. , Jillella A. , Kota V.
Published: January 2015

Introduction

Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia (APL) is a curable malignancy with studies showing above 90% survival. However, population‐based studies looking at survival suggest that approximately 30% of patients with APL die during induction. Early demonstration of t(15;17) will lead to accurate decision making regarding treatment. The aim of this project was to validate earlier time frames for the Abbott Molecular Vysis LSI promyelocytic leukemia (PML)/ retinoic acid receptor alpha (RARA) fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) probe (ASR 6–16 h).

Methods

Twenty patients (15 APL cases and five non‐APL cases) were selected for validating various hybridization times for the FISH probe. Expected normal signal pattern was two red and two green signals (2R2G), and the most common expected abnormal signal pattern was two fusion (yellow) signals, one red and one green (2F1R1G) and/or one fusion, one red and one green (1F1R1G).

Results

The specificity of the probe ranged from 84% at 2 h, 86% at 4 h, 84% at 6 h, and 87% for overnight hybridization. The sensitivity increased from 79% at 2 h, 80% at 4 h, 81% at 6 h to 87% for overnight hybridization.

Conclusion

Based on the validation studies, we recommend reading of FISH results at the 4‐h incubation mark for a preliminary diagnosis and confirmation with overnight hybridization.
Laziness or liberation? Labor market policies and workers' attitudes toward employment flexibility
Authors: Hipp Lena , Anderson Christopher J.
Published: January 2015

This study examined the relationship between labor market policies and employees' willingness to make concessions in order to avoid unemployment. In contrast to previous work that analyzed the behavior of employers and the unemployed, we examined how labor market policies influence employees' flexibility. Multilevel modeling techniques were applied to a data set that was created by combining individual‐level data from the International Social Survey Program (ISSP) with country‐level information from the Organization for Cooperation and Economic Development. The main findings of our analyses were that dismissal protection and unemployment benefits do make a difference to employees' willingness to make concessions, and that the relationships between the willingness to make concessions and labor market policies are nonlinear. Substantively, these nonlinear relationships suggest that employees' willingness to be flexible is negatively associated with both “too much” and “too little” social protection.