bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of a Highly Biodiverse Floodplain Meadow Using Hyperspectral Remote Sensing within a Plant Functional Trait Framework
Authors: Punalekar Suvarna , Verhoef Anne , Tatarenko Irina , Van der Tol Christiaan , Macdonald David , Marchant Benjamin , Gerard France , White Kevin , Gowing David
Published: February 2016

We assessed the potential for using optical functional types as effective markers to monitor changes in vegetation in floodplain meadows associated with changes in their local environment. Floodplain meadows are challenging ecosystems for monitoring and conservation because of their highly biodiverse nature. Our aim was to understand and explain spectral differences among key members of floodplain meadows and also characterize differences with respect to functional traits. The study was conducted on a typical floodplain meadow in UK (MG4-type, mesotrophic grassland type 4, according to British National Vegetation Classification). We compared two approaches to characterize floodplain communities using field spectroscopy. The first approach was sub-community based, in which we collected spectral signatures for species groupings indicating two distinct eco-hydrological conditions (dry and wet soil indicator species). The other approach was “species-specific”, in which we focused on the spectral reflectance of three key species found on the meadow. One herb species is a typical member of the MG4 floodplain meadow community, while the other two species, sedge and rush, represent wetland vegetation. We also monitored vegetation biophysical and functional properties as well as soil nutrients and ground water levels. We found that the vegetation classes representing meadow sub-communities could not be spectrally distinguished from each other, whereas the individual herb species was found to have a distinctly different spectral signature from the sedge and rush species. The spectral differences between these three species could be explained by their observed differences in plant biophysical parameters, as corroborated through radiative transfer model simulations. These parameters, such as leaf area index, leaf dry matter content, leaf water content, and specific leaf area, along with other functional parameters, such as maximum carboxylation capacity and leaf nitrogen content, also helped explain the species’ differences in functional dynamics. Groundwater level and soil nitrogen availability, which are important factors governing plant nutrient status, were also found to be significantly different for the herb/wetland species’ locations. The study concludes that spectrally distinguishable species, typical for a highly biodiverse site such as a floodplain meadow, could potentially be used as target species to monitor vegetation dynamics under changing environmental conditions.
Theoretical Basis and Application for Measuring Pork Loin Drip Loss Using Microwave Spectroscopy
Authors: Mason Alex , Abdullah Badr , Muradov Magomed , Korostynska Olga , Al-Shamma’a Ahmed , Bjarnadottir Stefania , Lunde Kathrine , Alvseike Ole
Published: February 2016

During cutting and processing of meat, the loss of water is critical in determining both product quality and value. From the point of slaughter until packaging, water is lost due to the hanging, movement, handling, and cutting of the carcass, with every 1% of lost water having the potential to cost a large meat processing plant somewhere in the region of €50,000 per day. Currently the options for monitoring the loss of water from meat, or determining its drip loss, are limited to destructive tests which take 24–72 h to complete. This paper presents results from work which has led to the development of a novel microwave cavity sensor capable of providing an indication of drip loss within 6 min, while demonstrating good correlation with the well-known EZ-Driploss method (R2 = 0.896).
Assessment of Trace Metals Contamination of Surface Water and Sediment: A Case Study of Mvudi River, South Africa
Authors: Edokpayi Joshua , Odiyo John , Popoola Oluwaseun , Msagati Titus
Published: February 2016

Trace metals contamination of rivers and sediments remains a global threat to biodiversity and humans. This study was carried out to assess the variation pattern in trace metals contamination in Mvudi River water and sediments for the period of January–June 2014. Metal concentrations were analyzed using an inductively-coupled plasma optical emission spectrometer after nitric acid digestion. A compliance study for the water samples was performed using the guidelines of the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry (DWAF) of South Africa and the World Health Organization (WHO). The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) sediment quality guidelines for marine and estuarine sediments and the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment sediment guidelines (CCME) for freshwater sediments were used to determine the possible toxic effects of the metals on aquatic organisms. pH (7.2–7.7) and conductivity (10.5–16.1 mS/m) values complied with DWAF and WHO standards for domestic water use. Turbidity values in nephelometric turbidity units (NTU) were in the range of 1.9–429 and exceeded the guideline values. The monthly average levels of trace metals in the water and sediments of Mvudi River were in the range of: Al (1.01–9.644 mg/L and 4296–5557 mg/kg), Cd (0.0003–0.002 mg/L and from below the detection limit to 2.19 mg/kg), Cr (0.015–0.357 mg/L and 44.23–149.52 mg/kg), Cu (0.024–0.185 mg/L and 13.22–1027 mg/kg), Fe (0.702–2.645 mg/L and 3840–6982 mg/kg), Mn (0.081–0.521 mg/L and 279–1638 mg/kg), Pb (0.002–0.042 mg/L and 1.775-4.157 mg/kg) and Zn (0.031–0.261 mg/L and 14.481–39.88 mg/kg). The average concentrations of Al, Cr, Fe, Mn and Pb in the water samples exceeded the recommended guidelines of DWAF and WHO for domestic water use. High concentrations of Al and Fe were determined in the sediment samples. Generally, the concentrations of Cd, Cr and Cu in the sediments exceeded the corresponding effect range low (ERL) values in the sediment quality guidelines and could have adverse effects on aquatic organisms in Mvudi River.
Research on Energy-Saving Production Scheduling Based on a Clustering Algorithm for a Forging Enterprise
Authors: Tong Yifei , Li Jingwei , Li Shai , Li Dongbo
Published: February 2016

Energy efficiency is a buzzword of the 21st century. With the ever growing need for energy efficient and low-carbon production, it is a big challenge for high energy-consumption enterprises to reduce their energy consumption. To this aim, a forging enterprise, DVR (the abbreviation of a forging enterprise), is researched. Firstly, an investigation into the production processes of DVR is given as well as an analysis of forging production. Then, the energy-saving forging scheduling is decomposed into two sub-problems. One is for cutting and machining scheduling, which is similar to traditional machining scheduling. The other one is for forging and heat treatment scheduling. Thirdly, former forging production scheduling is presented and solved based on an improved genetic algorithm. Fourthly, the latter is discussed in detail, followed by proposed dynamic clustering and stacking combination optimization. The proposed stacking optimization requires making the gross weight of forgings as close to the maximum batch capacity as possible. The above research can help reduce the heating times, and increase furnace utilization with high energy efficiency and low carbon emissions.
An Impact Analysis of Farmer Field School in China
Authors: Cai Jinyang , Shi Guanming , Hu Ruifa
Published: February 2016

In this paper, we investigate the impact of the Farmer Field School (FFS) intervention among small-scale tomato farmers in Beijing. Using data collected by face-to face-interview from 358 households on 426 planting plots in 2009, we evaluate the yield effect and find evidence of positive impact. We then examine the determining factors of farmers’ FFS attendance using the zero-inflated Poisson model. We find evidence of the positive impact of the FFS program on male participants but no impact on female participants. We find that some factors, such as being the household head, wealth level and land size affect both FFS participation decisions and attendance decisions, whereas other factors may affect only one decision but not the other. The results suggest that FFS is a useful way to increase production of farmers in Beijing and that the approach is especially effective for male and wealthy producers with smaller farm sizes and higher literacy.
Growing Gardens in Shrinking Cities: A Solution to the Soil Lead Problem?
Authors: Schwarz Kirsten , Cutts Bethany , London Jonathan , Cadenasso Mary
Published: February 2016

As cities shrink, they often leave a patchwork of vacancy on the landscape. The maintenance of vacant lands and eventual transformation to sustainable land uses is a challenge all cities face, but one that is particularly pronounced in shrinking cities. Vacant lands can support sustainability initiatives, specifically the expansion of urban gardens and local food production. However, many shrinking cities are the same aging cities that have experienced the highest soil lead burdens from their industrial past as well as the historic use of lead-based paint and leaded gasoline. Elevated soil lead is often viewed as a barrier to urban agriculture and managing for multiple ecosystem services, including food production and reduced soil lead exposure, remains a challenge. In this paper, we argue that a shift in framing the soil lead and gardening issue from potential conflict to potential solution can advance both urban sustainability goals and support healthy gardening efforts. Urban gardening as a potential solution to the soil lead problem stems from investment in place and is realized through multiple activities, in particular (1) soil management, including soil testing and the addition of amendments, and (2) social network and community building that leverages resources and knowledge.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Coordination Development for Regional Power Grid and Renewable Energy Power Supply Based on Improved Matter Element Extension and TOPSIS Method for Sustainability
Authors: Xu Xiaomin , Niu Dongxiao , Qiu Jinpeng , Wu Meiqiong , Wang Peng , Qian Wangyue , Jin Xiang
Published: February 2016

In the background of exhaustion of the traditional fossil energy sources, developing renewable energy has become a strategic choice for China to achieve energy sustainable utilization and energy security. The coordination between renewable energy generation and the traditional power grid is a problem that needs to be solved in the development of the power grid. The three sectors of power generation, transmission, distribution, and scheduling are considered comprehensively in this paper and an evaluation index system for the development of renewable energy and traditional power grid is designed. The traditional method of Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution （TOPSIS） is improved using the idea of matter element extension, and mathematical model of comprehensive evaluation is constructed. Combined with the development index data of a regional power grid and renewable energy sources in Ningxia province, this paper applied the evaluation model to empirical research. The results show that the model meets the real situation of development of the regional power grid and renewable energy generation and has certain reference and promotion significance.
A Quality Assessment of National Territory Use at the City Level: A Planning Review Perspective
Authors: Wang Liyan , Li Feixue , Gong Yuan , Jiang Penghui , Huang Qiuhao , Hong Wuyang , Chen Dong
Published: February 2016

With increasing urbanization, the populations in China’s cities are growing, and the cities themselves are gradually expanding. Competition for access to the national territory’s resources is also growing. Thus, the quality of national territory use is worsening. Quality assessments on national territory use can provide a basis for solving this issue. By combining the implications of new urbanization in China, we established an assessment index system relating to the quality of national territory use, from the perspective of harmoniously developing spaces for production, living and ecology. A subjective and objective integrated weighting method was developed based on principal component analysis and planning review. Then, a comprehensive discriminative model was established to assess the quality of national territory use. The evaluation results showed that harmonious development of spaces for production, living and ecology did not occur in either the ecology-oriented or production-oriented regions. The integrated quality of national territory use in the production-oriented region had a significant advantage over that of the ecology-oriented region. The integrated quality of national territory use was highest in Changzhou’s city center and vicinity. The results can support the implementation of China’s new urbanization strategy and provide evidence to improve the criteria for the intensive use of national territorial resources.
Contributing Factors for Acute Illness/Injury from Childhood Pesticide Exposure in North Carolina, USA, 2007–2013
Authors: Barros Nirmalla , Langley Ricky , Buhler Wayne , Brantham Kelly
Published: February 2016

Between 2007 and 2013, there were 685 events with evidence of a relationship between pesticide exposure and acute illness/injury among persons less than 18 years old in North Carolina (United States). Median age of children affected was 4.3 years (range: 0.2–17.9). Distribution by gender was similar across all age groups. One fatality and four high severity events were observed. The greatest proportion (42%) of events had ocular exposures, followed by dermal (25%) and inhalation (18%) exposures. When more than one route of exposure occurred, dermal and ocular routes were the most common (46%). Almost all events took place indoors and 32 events involved contact with pets. Insecticides (53%) and insect repellants (31%) were the most frequent agents contributing to these events. Manual application of pesticides contributed to the greatest number of events (25%), while application through a pressurized can and use of a trigger pump were involved in 21% and 15% of events, respectively. Additional contributors were due to inappropriate storage of pesticides and improper use of the pesticide. These contributing factors can be removed or minimized if pesticides are stored outside the residence or out of the reach of children and pets, and adequate ventilation is ensured whenever pesticides are applied.
Diminished but Not Abolished Effect of Two His351 Mutants of Anthrax Edema Factor in a Murine Model
Authors: Zhao Taoran , Zhao Xinghui , Liu Ju , Meng Yingying , Feng Yingying , Fang Ting , Zhang Jinlong , Yang Xiuxu , Li Jianmin , Xu Junjie , Chen Wei
Published: February 2016

Edema toxin (ET), which is composed of a potent adenylate cyclase (AC), edema factor (EF), and protective antigen (PA), is one of the major toxicity factors of Bacillus anthracis. In this study, we introduced mutations in full-length EF to generate alanine EF(H351A) and arginine EF(H351R) variants. In vitro activity analysis displayed that the adenylyl cyclase activity of both the mutants was significantly diminished compared with the wild-type EF. When the native and mutant toxins were administered subcutaneously in a mouse footpad edema model, severe acute swelling was evoked by wild-type ET, while the symptoms induced by mutant toxins were very minor. Systemic administration of these EF variants caused non-lethal hepatotoxicity. In addition, EF(H351R) exhibited slightly higher activity in causing more severe edema than EF(H351A). Our findings demonstrate that the toxicity of ET is not abolished by substitution of EF residue His351 by alanine or arginine. These results also indicate the potential of the mouse footpad edema model as a sensitive method for evaluating both ET toxicity and the efficacy of candidate therapeutic agents.
Begomovirus-Associated Satellite DNA Diversity Captured Through Vector-Enabled Metagenomic (VEM) Surveys Using Whiteflies (Aleyrodidae)
Authors: Rosario Karyna , Marr Christian , Varsani Arvind , Kraberger Simona , Stainton Daisy , Moriones Enrique , Polston Jane , Breitbart Mya
Published: February 2016

Monopartite begomoviruses (Geminiviridae), which are whitefly-transmitted single-stranded DNA viruses known for causing devastating crop diseases, are often associated with satellite DNAs. Since begomovirus acquisition or exchange of satellite DNAs may lead to adaptation to new plant hosts and emergence of new disease complexes, it is important to investigate the diversity and distribution of these molecules. This study reports begomovirus-associated satellite DNAs identified during a vector-enabled metagenomic (VEM) survey of begomoviruses using whiteflies collected in various locations (California (USA), Guatemala, Israel, Puerto Rico, and Spain). Protein-encoding satellite DNAs, including alphasatellites and betasatellites, were identified in Israel, Puerto Rico, and Guatemala. Novel alphasatellites were detected in samples from Guatemala and Puerto Rico, resulting in the description of a phylogenetic clade (DNA-3-type alphasatellites) dominated by New World sequences. In addition, a diversity of small (~640–750 nucleotides) satellite DNAs similar to satellites associated with begomoviruses infecting Ipomoea spp. were detected in Puerto Rico and Spain. A third class of satellite molecules, named gammasatellites, is proposed to encompass the increasing number of reported small (<1 kilobase), non-coding begomovirus-associated satellite DNAs. This VEM-based survey indicates that, although recently recovered begomovirus genomes are variations of known genetic themes, satellite DNAs hold unexplored genetic diversity.
Adenovirus E1A/E1B Transformed Amniotic Fluid Cells Support Human Cytomegalovirus Replication
Authors: Krömmelbein Natascha , Wiebusch Lüder , Schiedner Gudrun , Büscher Nicole , Sauer Caroline , Florin Luise , Sehn Elisabeth , Wolfrum Uwe , Plachter Bodo
Published: February 2016

The human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) replicates to high titers in primary human fibroblast cell cultures. A variety of primary human cells and some tumor-derived cell lines do also support permissive HCMV replication, yet at low levels. Cell lines established by transfection of the transforming functions of adenoviruses have been notoriously resistant to HCMV replication and progeny production. Here, we provide first-time evidence that a permanent cell line immortalized by adenovirus type 5 E1A and E1B (CAP) is supporting the full HCMV replication cycle and is releasing infectious progeny. The CAP cell line had previously been established from amniotic fluid cells which were likely derived from membranes of the developing fetus. These cells can be grown under serum-free conditions. HCMV efficiently penetrated CAP cells, expressed its immediate-early proteins and dispersed restrictive PML-bodies. Viral DNA replication was initiated and viral progeny became detectable by electron microscopy in CAP cells. Furthermore, infectious virus was released from CAP cells, yet to lower levels compared to fibroblasts. Subviral dense bodies were also secreted from CAP cells. The results show that E1A/E1B expression in transformed cells is not generally repressive to HCMV replication and that CAP cells may be a good substrate for dense body based vaccine production.
Mother-to-Child Transmission of HTLV-1 Epidemiological Aspects, Mechanisms and Determinants of Mother-to-Child Transmission
Authors: Percher Florent , Jeannin Patricia , Martin-Latil Sandra , Gessain Antoine , Afonso Philippe , Vidy-Roche Aurore , Ceccaldi Pierre-Emmanuel
Published: February 2016

Human T-cell Lymphotropic Virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is a human retrovirus that infects at least 5–10 million people worldwide, and is the etiological agent of a lymphoproliferative malignancy; Adult T-cell Leukemia/Lymphoma (ATLL); and a chronic neuromyelopathy, HTLV-1 Associated Myelopathy/Tropical Spastic Paraparesis (HAM/TSP), as well as other inflammatory diseases such as infective dermatitis and uveitis. Besides sexual intercourse and intravenous transmission, HTLV-1 can also be transmitted from infected mother to child during prolonged breastfeeding. Some characteristics that are linked to mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HTLV-1, such as the role of proviral load, antibody titer of the infected mother, and duration of breastfeeding, have been elucidated; however, most of the mechanisms underlying HTLV-1 transmission during breast feeding remain largely unknown, such as the sites of infection and cellular targets as well as the role of milk factors. The present review focuses on the latest findings and current opinions and perspectives on MTCT of HTLV-1.
Seismic-Reliability-Based Optimal Layout of a Water Distribution Network
Authors: Yoo Do , Jung Donghwi , Kang Doosun , Kim Joong
Published: February 2016

We proposed an economic, cost-constrained optimal design of a water distribution system (WDS) that maximizes seismic reliability while satisfying pressure constraints. The model quantifies the seismic reliability of a WDS through a series of procedures: stochastic earthquake generation, seismic intensity attenuation, determination of the pipe failure status (normal, leakage, and breakage), pipe failure modeling in hydraulic simulation, and negative pressure treatment. The network’s seismic reliability is defined as the ratio of the available quantity of water to the required water demand under stochastic earthquakes. The proposed model allows no pipe option in decisions, making it possible to identify seismic-reliability-based optimal layout for a WDS. The model takes into account the physical impact of earthquake events on the WDS, which ultimately affects the network’s boundary conditions (e.g., failure level of pipes). A well-known benchmark network, the Anytown network, is used to demonstrate the proposed model. The network’s optimal topology and pipe layouts are determined from a series of optimizations. The results show that installing large redundant pipes degrades the system’s seismic reliability because the pipes will cause a large rupture opening under failure. Our model is a useful tool to find the optimal pipe layout that maximizes system reliability under earthquakes.
Méthodes, bilan provisoire et perspectives de recherches en cours sur les villes piémontaises (XIVe-XVe siècles)
Authors: Comba Rinaldo
Published: February 2016

The sources available for the démographie study of medieval Piemont have remained little known and when such sources were employed they remained badly exploited. The renewed study concerned firstly the rural areas but now urban studies are beginning to develop. Such studies are based mainly on the lists obtained from the public registers and from time to time on the accounts of the local land-owners.

For this era, the analyses concern three small towns : Turin, Coni and Savillan. The importance of their demographic renewal due more to mortality than to emigration is shown. On the other hand, a great immigration was important.

Great importance is given over to the social aspects. This is due to demographic renewal being concerned more and more with marginals and with the floating population ; and because a thorough interprétation necessitates an allover view of the demographic, economic and social evolution of Piemont at the end of the Middle Ages.
Le débat sur l'idée de ville parmi les économistes italiens au XVIIIe siècle
Authors: Demarco Domenico
Published: February 2016

The concept of the town has evolved through the ages. During the XVII and XVIII centuries such a question encouraged an important debate between the French and English thinkers and economists, notedly William Petty, Fougerolle, Jean-François Melon, the Abbot of St-Pierre... This gave birth to the thoughts of the Italian économists of the XVIII century on the concept of the town. These writers took an interest in the problems of towns in considering the growth in their population and their demographic concentration. They attempt to distinguish the social difficultes or the dangers represented by urbanization. We find such points of view in the italian states where economic research is more fully developped, that is in the South and Lombardie-Venetie.
Le bilan démographique des villes : un système complexe
Authors: Garden Maurice
Published: February 2016

Les bilans démographiques des villes sont rendus difficiles par l'insuffisante précision des données à partir desquelles sont évalués les soldes : aussi bien le mouvement naturel que le mouvement migratoire sont déformés par des échanges de population, mal perçus statistiquement. Les naissances illégitimes enregistrées en ville, les envois d'enfants en nourrice, les décès hospitaliers, les mariages célébrés en ville sans volonté de fixation, sont autant d'éléments qui enlèvent toute signification à des comptages trop simplistes. La population urbaine, somme d'histoires individuelles et familiales, ne peut être analysée que par la reconstitution de ces itinéraires singuliers, compliqués par la très forte mobilité intra et inter-urbaine.
Habitat specificity enhances genetic differentiation in two species of aquatic Podostemaceae in Japan
Authors: Katayama Natsu , Kato Masahiro , Imaichi Ryoko
Published: February 2016

PREMISE OF THE STUDY:

Species with habitat specificity show restricted distribution, and the limited dispersal provides opportunity for long‐term isolation. Aquatic Podostemaceae grow on rocks in river rapids, which are extreme habitats for angiosperms. To infer the diversification process of the podostemad species in such specific habitats, we investigated environmental factors shaping their distribution and the relationship between their distribution and genetic structure.

METHODS:

We used Hydrobryum japonicum and Cladopus doianus, which have contrasting distributions (i.e., narrower and wider, respectively) in southern Kyushu, Japan. Environmental factors contributing to their distribution were estimated by ecological niche modeling. Using polymorphisms in chloroplast DNA, we performed population genetic analyses of 13 H. japonicum populations occurring in nearby river basins and eight C. doianus populations in distant rivers.

KEY RESULTS:

Estimation of distribution probability showed great contributions of geology and temperature to the distribution of these populations, suggesting that the species grow on volcanic rocks in relatively warm areas. Genetic analyses revealed higher interpopulational genetic diversity than intrapopulational diversity and strong differentiation between rivers in both species. No correlation between genetic and geographic distances was detected among the C. doianus populations, in contrast to the significant correlation observed in the H. japonicum populations.

CONCLUSIONS:

The high‐level genetic differentiations among populations of the two species may result from their limited dispersal. Their restricted habitats, which are primarily characterized by volcanic rocks in rapids and lower temperatures in winter, may enhance isolation among populations in distant rivers.
INTERRUPTED BINARY MASS TRANSFER IN STAR CLUSTERS
Authors: Leigh Nathan W. C. , Geller Aaron M. , Toonen Silvia
Published: February 2016

Binary mass transfer (MT) is at the forefront of some of the most exciting puzzles of modern astrophysics, including SNe Ia, gamma-ray bursts, and the formation of most observed exotic stellar populations. Typically, the evolution is assumed to proceed in isolation, even in dense stellar environments such as star clusters. In this paper, we test the validity of this assumption via the analysis of a large grid of binary evolution models simulated with the SeBa code. For every binary, we calculate analytically the mean time until another single or binary star comes within the mean separation of the mass-transferring binary, and compare this timescale to the mean time for stable MT to occur. We then derive the probability for each respective binary to experience a direct dynamical interruption. The resulting probability distribution can be integrated to give an estimate for the fraction of binaries undergoing MT that are expected to be disrupted as a function of the host cluster properties. We find that for lower-mass clusters (

), on the order of a few to a few tens of percent of binaries undergoing MT are expected to be interrupted by an interloping single, or more often binary, star, over the course of the cluster lifetime, whereas in more massive globular clusters we expect

to be interrupted. Furthermore, using numerical scattering experiments performed with the FEWBODY code, we show that the probability of interruption increases if perturbative fly-bys are considered as well, by a factor ∼2.
Effects of heat-killed Lactobacillus kunkeei YB38 on human intestinal environment and bowel movement: a pilot study
Authors: Asama T. , Kimura Y. , Kono T. , Tatefuji T. , Hashimoto K. , Benno Y.
Published: February 2016

It is well known that lactic acid bacteria supplementation is beneficial for intestinal conditions such as microbiota; however, the effects of killed-lactic acid bacteria on intestinal conditions are largely unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of heat-killed Lactobacillus kunkeei YB38 (YB38) at a dose of approximately 10 mg/day on human intestinal environment and bowel movement. This single-blind study enrolled 29 female subjects with a low defecation frequency who consumed heat-killed YB38 at four increasing dosage levels: 0 (placebo), 2, 10, and 50 mg. Each dose was consumed daily for two weeks, with a two-week baseline period preceding the dosing-period and a two-week washout period ending the study. Observed levels of Bacteroides fragilis group significantly decreased with intake of heat-killed YB38 at ≥10 mg/day compared with levels during placebo intake (P<0.01). Faecal pH significantly decreased with 10 and 50 mg/day intake (P<0.01 and 0.05, respectively). Acetic acid levels tended to increase in faeces at the 50 mg/day dose (P<0.1). Bowel movement tended to increase in all heat-killed YB38 intake periods (P<0.1). In conclusion, heat-killed YB38 altered human intestinal microbiota at doses of ≥10 mg/day and tended to increase bowel movement at ≥2 mg/day. This is the first study to show the intestinal microbiota-altering effect of L. kunkeei and to report the bowel movement-improving effect of heat-killed lactic acid bacteria.
The case in favour of probiotics before, during and after pregnancy: insights from the first 1,500 days
Authors: Reid G. , Kumar H. , Khan A.I. , Rautava S. , Tobin J. , Salminen S.
Published: February 2016

Successful human reproduction requires microbial homeostasis in the female reproductive tract, and colonisation of the newborn with beneficial microbes. In order to prevent several complications associated with dysbiosis, the administration of probiotics is more often being considered. The objective of the enclosed review was to examine the rationale for probiotic utility before and during pregnancy and in the early phase of infant life. The conclusions emerged from a panel of researchers who met during the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP) workshop held in Washington, DC, USA in 2015. The group concluded based upon the current literature, that a case can be made for the use of a specific sets of probiotic organisms during the first 1,500 days of life, with the goal of a healthy pregnancy to term, and a healthy start to life with lowered risk of infections and inflammatory events. The key to successfully translating these recommendations to practice is that products be made available and affordable to women in developed and developing countries.
Bifidobacterium bifidum R0071 decreases stress-associated diarrhoea-related symptoms and self-reported stress: a secondary analysis of a randomised trial
Authors: Culpepper T. , Christman M.C. , Nieves C. , Specht G.J. , Rowe C.C. , Spaiser S.J. , Ford A.L. , Dahl W.J. , Girard S.A. , Langkamp-Henken B.
Published: February 2016

Psychological stress is associated with gastrointestinal (GI) distress. This secondary analysis from a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study examined whether three different probiotics could normalise self-reported stress-associated GI discomfort and reduce overall self-reported stress. Undergraduate students (n=581) received Lactobacillus helveticus R0052, Bifidobacterium longum ssp. infantis R0033, Bifidobacterium bifidum R0071, or placebo. Participants self-reported 2 outcomes for a 6-week period, which included final academic exams: daily level of stress (0=no stress to 10=extremely stressed) and weekly three diarrhoea-related symptoms (DS, 1=no discomfort to 7=severe discomfort) using the GI Symptom Rating Scale. Self-reported stress was positively related to DS (P=0.0068). Mean DS scores were lower with B. bifidum versus placebo at week 2 at the average level of stress and the average body mass index (BMI). DS scores were lower with B. bifidum at week 5 versus week 0 and 1 and with B. infantis R0033 at week 6 versus week 0. DS scores were higher when antibiotics were used in the prior week with placebo (P=0.0092). DS were not different with or without antibiotic use with the probiotics. Only B. bifidum had an effect on self-reported stress scores (P=0.0086). The self-reported stress score was also dependent on hours of sleep per day where it decreased by 0.13 for each additional hour of sleep. During a stressful period, B. bifidum R0071 decreases DS and self-reported stress scores. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01709825.
Gut-associated lymphoid tissue, gut microbes and susceptibility to experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis
Authors: Stanisavljević S. , Lukić J. , Momčilović M. , Miljković M. , Jevtić B. , Kojić M. , Golić N. , Mostarica Stojković M. , Miljković D.
Published: February 2016

Gut microbiota and gut-associated lymphoid tissue have been increasingly appreciated as important players in pathogenesis of various autoimmune diseases, including multiple sclerosis. Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is an animal model of multiple sclerosis that can be induced with an injection of spinal cord homogenate emulsified in complete Freund’s adjuvant in Dark Agouti (DA) rats, but not in Albino Oxford (AO) rats. In this study, mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN), Peyer’s patches (PP) and gut microbiota were analysed in these two rat strains. There was higher proportion of CD4+ T cells and regulatory T cells in non-immunised DA rats in comparison to AO rats. Also, DA rat MLN and PP cells were higher producers of pro-inflammatory cytokines interferon-γ and interleukin-17. Finally, microbial analyses showed that uncultivated species of Turicibacter and Atopostipes genus were exclusively present in AO rats, in faeces and intestinal tissue, respectively. Thus, it is clear that in comparison of an EAE-susceptible with an EAE-resistant strain of rats, various discrepancies at the level of gut associated lymphoid tissue, as well as at the level of gut microbiota can be observed. Future studies should determine if the differences have functional significance for EAE pathogenesis.
The effect of carbohydrate mouth rinse on a 30-minute arm cranking performance
Authors: Andersson H. , Sinclair J. , Knight A. , Buscombe R. , Edmonds C.J. , Bottoms L.
Published: February 2016

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of carbohydrate mouth rinse on 30-min arm cranking performance. Twelve healthy, active males (age 21.6, standard deviation (SD)=3.1 years; mass 76.2, SD=12.2 kg) volunteered in a single-blind, randomised crossover design. Firstly they completed an incremental exercise test to exhaustion (VO2max test) on an arm crank (50W for 2 min, increasing by 10W every min). During visit 2 and 3 they arm cranked for maximal distance over 30 min at a resistance equivalent to 50% of their peak power, mouth rinsing for 5 s with either 25 ml of a tasteless 6.4% maltodextrin solution (CHO) or 25 ml of water (placebo) every 6 min. A letter cancellation test was performed pre and post exercise to measure cognitive function. The result showed that cognitive function was not significantly different between trials (P=0.874). There was no significant difference in distance arm cranked between trials (P=0.164) even though 9 out of 12 participants had improved performance on the CHO trial. In conclusion, further research is needed to determine the ergogenic effect of CHO mouth rinsing on upper body exercise performance.
Associations betweenFusarium species and mycotoxins in oats and spring wheat from farmers’ fields in Norway over a six-year period
Authors: Hofgaard I.S. , Aamot H.U. , Torp T. , Jestoi M. , Lattanzio V.M.T. , Klemsdal S.S. , Waalwijk C. , Van der Lee T. , Brodal G.
Published: February 2016

During the last ten years, Norwegian cereal grain industry has experienced large challenges due toFusarium spp. andFusarium mycotoxin contamination of small-grained cereals. To prevent severely contaminated grain lots from entering the grain supply chain, it is important to establish surveys for the most prevalentFusarium spp. and mycotoxins. The objective of our study was to quantify and calculate the associations betweenFusarium spp. and mycotoxins prevalent in oats and spring wheat. In a 6-year period from 2004-2009, 178 grain samples of spring wheat and 289 samples of oats were collected from farmers’ fields in South East Norway. The grains were analysed for 18 differentFusarium-mycotoxins by liquid chromatography – mass spectrometry. Generally, the median mycotoxin levels were higher than reported in Norwegian studies covering previous years. The DNA content ofFusarium graminearum, Fusarium culmorum, Fusarium langsethiae,Fusarium poae andFusarium avenaceum were determined by quantitative PCR. We identifiedF. graminearum as the main deoxynivalenol (DON) producer in oats and spring wheat, andF. langsethiae as the main HT-2 and T-2-toxins producer in oats. No association was observed between quantity ofF. graminearum DNA and quantity ofF. langsethiae DNA nor for their respective mycotoxins, in oats. F. avenaceum was one of the most prevalentFusarium species in both oats and spring wheat. The following ranking ofFusarium species was made based on the DNA concentrations of theFusarium spp. analysed in this survey (from high to low):F. graminearum = F. langsethiae = F. avenaceum > F. poae > F. culmorum (oats);F. graminearum = F. avenaceum > F. culmorum > F. poae = F. langsethiae (spring wheat). Our results are in agreement with recently published data indicating a shift in the relative prevalence ofFusarium species towards moreF. graminearum versusF. culmorum in Norwegian oats and spring wheat.
Encouraging Specialty Certification: How Multilevel Support Can Help
Authors: Lindgren Sara , Lancaster Rachelle J.
Published: February 2016

Professional development through specialty certification is positively associated with nurses' increased confidence in clinical skills, commitment to learning, empowerment, and professional credibility. This translates to improved patient outcomes, with higher organizational reimbursement, in addition to nurse retention and job satisfaction. Despite the call for lifelong learning from the Institute of Medicine, certification rates, especially among nurses in direct patient care, remain low. This article provides a three-tiered approach for organizational leaders and administrators of continuing education programs to establish resources and support for nurses seeking specialty certification.

J Contin Educ Nurs.
2016;47(2):49–51.
Preparing Nurses to Communicate With the Media, Policy Makers, and the Public
Authors: Crowder Sharron J.
Published: February 2016

Using active learning strategies, educators facilitate nurses' ability to convey messages to nonhealth care audiences about important policy issues. In this article, mock interviews are described as an active learning approach to develop important communication skills for nurses.

J Contin Educ Nurs.
2016;47(2):58–60.
Multisite Assessment of Nursing Continuing Education Learning Needs Using an Electronic Tool
Authors: Winslow Susan , Jackson Stephanie , Cook Lesley , Reed Joanne Williams , Blakeney Keshia , Zimbro Kathie , Parker Cindy
Published: February 2016

A continued education needs assessment and associated education plan are required for organizations on the journey for American Nurses Credentialing Center Magnet
®
designation. Leveraging technology to support the assessment and analysis of continuing education needs was a new venture for a 12-hospital regional health system. The purpose of this performance improvement project was to design and conduct an enhanced process to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of gathering data on nurses' preferences and increase nurse satisfaction with the learner assessment portion of the process. Educators trialed the use of a standardized approach via an electronic survey tool to replace the highly variable processes previously used. Educators were able to view graphical summary of responses by category and setting, which substantially decreased analysis and action planning time for education implementation plans at the system, site, or setting level. Based on these findings, specific continuing education action plans were drafted for each category and classification of nurses.

J Contin Educ Nurs
. 2016;47(2):75–81.
Leadership for Transitions of Care: An Active Learning Innovation
Authors: Huber Diane L. , Joseph M. Lindell , Halbmaier Katie Anne , Carlson Molly , Crill Stacy , Krieger Kimberly , Matthys Nicole , Mundisev Amy
Published: February 2016

Active learning assignments can be achieved in online discussions, resulting in creative linkages for innovation. This article describes how the teaching strategy of active learning assignment evolved into a group of student learners engaging in the development of a creative advanced clinical care scenario in an online graduate core course on leadership and management. The advanced clinical scenario that resulted from the students envisioning the assignment through the continuum of care was innovative and creative. Most importantly, the scenario stimulated vigorous conversation and excitement over the assignment, which promoted learning, pride in accomplishment, and on-the-job impact. This article serves as a model of ways to engage students in active learning for synthesis and evaluation to enable creativity and innovation.

J Contin Educ Nurs
. 2016;47(2):82–88.
Removal of Well-Fixed Cementless Acetabular Components in Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Adelani Muyibat A. , Goodman Stuart B. , Maloney William J. , Huddleston James I.
Published: February 2016

The Zimmer Explant Acetabular Cup Removal System (Warsaw, Indiana) has been touted as a superior method for removing well-fixed cementless acetabular components while minimizing bone loss; however, no comparative data support this. This study compares bone loss following the removal of well-fixed acetabular components with Aufranc gouges and with the Explant System. A review of 623 revision total hip arthroplasties (THAs) at the authors' institution between 2002 and 2013 identified cases involving the revision of well-fixed cementless hemispherical acetabular components for any reason except infection. Twenty-four cases using Aufranc gouges and 27 cases using the Explant System were included. The following surrogates for bone loss were used: (1) the difference between the initial acetabular component outer diameter (OD) and the final reamer OD; (2) the difference between the initial acetabular component OD and the new acetabular component OD; and (3) the use of impaction bone grafting. A 2-tailed Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney test was used to assess the difference in bone loss between the 2 groups. The use of bone grafting was compared between the groups with the chi-square test. The median differences between the initial acetabular component and the final reamer (
P
=.004), as well as between the initial and new acetabular components (
P
=.002), were 2 mm less with the Explant System. Hips in the Aufranc group were more likely to have bone grafting (54% vs 26%;
P
=.04). These results suggest less bone loss when removing well-fixed acetabular components with the Zimmer Explant System compared with Aufranc gouges. [
Orthopedics.
2016; 39(2):e280–e284.]
A Novel System for the Deployment and Retrieval of Trawl Gear from the Bow of a Small Research Vessel
Authors: Drews Kevin , W. Bouska Wesley , Doyle Wyatt
Published: February 2016

Research vessel crews have increasingly applied trawling gear in a diversity of freshwater habitats, including river systems. Crews typically deploy and retrieve trawling gear by hand or with hydraulic winches. These methods are often labor intensive and require crews of three or more people to operate safely. Additionally, unless the research vessel has an inboard engine with power take-off capabilities, hydraulic winches will need to be powered by a generator, requiring additional maintenance and creating a loud work environment. We describe a new system for the deployment and retrieval of trawling gear that is suitable for smaller vessels where a hydraulic system may not be practical. This system utilizes electric line haulers mounted on davits at the bow of the boat. The line haulers are retrofitted with a novel mechanism for loading the trawl line into the line hauler pulley, allowing deployment and retrieval of many types of trawl gear by one deckhand and one boat operator. The electric trawl retrieval system is powered by a battery bank that charges from the boat motor, thereby reducing risk of hearing damage from generator noise. We have designed it to be interchangeable and portable amongst different research vessels, which increases sampling efficiency and reduces costs.
SYNTHESIS OF POLY[(ε-CL)-co-(GA-alt-L-Asp)] COPOLYMER AND EFFECTS ON CELLS AFTER COUPLING WITH SMALL PEPTIDE
Authors: Qiang Na , Xie Fang , Liang Hao , Li Xian-Feng , Tang Shuo , Zhu Ji-Xiang
Published: February 2016

A novel poly[([Formula: see text]-CL)-co-(GA-alt-L-Asp)] with improved hydrophilicity was prepared. The monomer 3(S)-[(benzyloxycarbony)methyl]-1,4-dioxane-2,5-dione (BMD) was prepared from aspartic acid. The polymer was obtained by ring-opening polymerization of [Formula: see text]-caprolactone ([Formula: see text]-CL) and BMD. Poly[([Formula: see text]-CL)-co-(GA-alt-L-Asp)] was synthesized by deprotection. The structure and properties of the polymer were characterized using 1H nuclear magnetic resonance, gel permeation chromatography, and differential scanning calorimetry. The melting point and melting enthalpy of the polymer decreased with the increase of BMD. The structural regularity of polycaprolactone was destroyed by the BMD. A laminin-derived peptide [i.e., Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD)] was covalently tethered to the carboxyl groups and the peptide-grafted films. Results indicated that the addition of RGD had beneficial effects for cell growth, as shown by scanning electron microscopy.