bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
KAPPA FUNCTION AS A UNIFYING FRAMEWORK FOR DISCRETE POPULATION MODELING
Authors: LIVADIOTIS G. , ASSAS L. , DENNIS B. , ELAYDI S. , KWESSI E. 
Published: December 2015

AbstractThis paper develops a unified way to describe the various generalized discrete‐time nonlinear dynamical models with density dependence, Allee effects, and parasitoids. We show how the kappa function can be used to describe the probabilities involved in intra‐ or interspecific encounters, namely, (i) the probability of surviving to the next generation in the absence of parasitoids or Allee effects, (ii) the encounter probability associated with Allee effects, and (iii) the probability of escaping parasitism in the presence of parasitoids. Having introduced a phenomenological framework of modeling via the kappa function, we then provide a realistic mechanism through stochastic encounters, responsible for generating the kappa function to any of the three involved probabilities. The unified modeling through the kappa function yields insights into how abundances influence species interactions. It is now straightforward to use this unified modeling to analyze and investigate its consequences in species dynamics.
Estimation of population iodine intake from iodized salt consumed through bouillon seasoning in Senegal
Authors: Spohrer Rebecca , Knowles Jacqueline , Jallier Vincent , Ndiaye Banda , Indorf Caroline , Guinot Philippe , Kupka Roland 
Published: December 2015

Universal salt iodization (USI) is the main global strategy to eliminate iodine deficiency. Regulation of USI programs often omits salt used in processed foods, despite their increasing contribution to salt intake. In West Africa, bouillon seasoning is a widely consumed source of salt and is therefore relevant to USI effectiveness. To develop program guidance around iodine in bouillon, iodine retention in 13 bouillon brands commercially available in Senegal was measured over 6 months. Iodine content was measured in broth using various water volumes and cooking times, as well as in rice cooked in the broth. Average iodine loss in bouillon over 6 months in 95% humidity at 40–40.5 °C was 4.5% (13.6% for cubes and 0.8% for powder sachets). Iodine was retained in broth with cooking times of up to an hour and in rice cooked in broth. Modeling of contribution to iodine intake revealed that bouillon is an important source of dietary iodine in Senegal. Results may inform salt iodization standards and regulation in Senegal and countries with similar bouillon consumption levels.
Streptococcus mutans copper chaperone, CopZ, is critical for biofilm formation and competitiveness
Authors: Garcia S.S. , Du Q. , Wu H. 
Published: December 2015

SummaryThe oral cavity is a dynamic environment characterized by hundreds of bacterial species, saliva, and an influx of nutrients and metal ions such as copper. Although there is a physiologic level of copper in the saliva, the oral cavity is often challenged with an influx of copper ions. At high concentrations copper is toxic and must therefore be strictly regulated by pathogens for them to persist and cause disease. The cariogenic pathogen Streptococcus mutans manages excess copper using the copYAZ operon that encodes a negative DNA‐binding repressor (CopY), the P1‐ATPase copper exporter (CopA), and the copper chaperone (CopZ). These hypothetical roles of the copYAZ operon in regulation and copper transport to receptors led us to investigate their contribution to S. mutans virulence. Mutants defective in the copper chaperone CopZ, but not CopY or CopA, were impaired in biofilm formation and competitiveness against commensal streptococci. Characterization of the CopZ mutant biofilm revealed a decreased secretion of glucosyltransferases and reduced expression of mutacin genes. These data suggest that the function of copZ on biofilm and competitiveness is independent of copper resistance and CopZ is a global regulator for biofilm and other virulence factors. Further characterization of CopZ may lead to the identification of new biofilm pathways.
Perioperative use of cerebral and renal near‐infrared spectroscopy in neonates: a 24‐h observational study
Authors: Koch Henrik W. , Hansen Tom G. 
Published: December 2015

SummaryBackgroundNeonates undergoing surgery and intensive care still carry a significant morbidity and mortality often related to hypoxic/ischemic events; some of which may go undetected by conventional monitoring. Near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is a noninvasive, continuous method of measuring regional tissue oxygen saturation, and may be used to supplement conventional monitoring to improve neonatal perioperative care. However, high costs and lack of evidence regarding improved outcomes have minimized wider perinatal use of NIRS. The aim of this study was to investigate the applicability of NIRS in neonates and premature infants undergoing noncardiac surgeries.MethodNeonates were monitored with both cerebral and renal NIRS for 24 h after induction of anesthesia and compared with systemic blood pressure (BP), peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2), and heart rate (HR).ResultsA total of 23 368 min of data were collected from 21 neonates. NIRS reported cerebral/renal hypoxia 2.8 (±8.3)%/19.3 (±25.4)% of the time intraoperatively and 9.6 (±17.0)%/9.9 (±18.9)% of the time postoperatively. A moderate positive correlation was found between SpO2 and NIRS (φcerebral = 0.371, φrenal = 0.542). BP showed a weaker positive correlation (φcerebral = 0.231, φrenal = 0.246), and HR no correlation (φcerebral = −0.083, φrenal = −0.029). NIRS reported hypoxia two to three times more frequently than SpO2, and SpO2 readings were 10–15 s delayed compared to NIRS. Furthermore, NIRS appeared effective at detecting postoperative apnea.ConclusionNear‐infrared spectroscopy is an easily applicable technique that appears effective at detecting hypoxic events and postoperative apneas in neonates. The high incidences of regional hypoxia reported by NIRS in this study imply that there is a need for a more specific regional cerebral and renal monitoring. Despite some practical and economical limitations, NIRS may be considered a useful supplement to perinatal perioperative intensive care.
Proteomonas sulcata ACR1: A Fast Anion Channelrhodopsin
Authors: Govorunova Elena G. , Sineshchekov Oleg A. , Spudich John L. 
Published: December 2015

AbstractNatural channelrhodopsins with strictly anion selectivity and high unitary conductance have been recently discovered in the cryptophyte alga Guillardia theta. These proteins, called anion channelrhodopsins (ACRs), are of interest for their novel function and also because they were shown to be highly efficient tools to inhibit neuronal action potentials with light. We show that a homologous protein from the cryptophyte alga Proteomonas sulcata (named here PsuACR1) exhibits similar strict anion selectivity as the previously identified G. theta ACRs. Like G. theta ACRs, PsuACR1 lacks a protonatable residue at the position of the proton acceptor Asp‐85 in bacteriorhodopsin, which may be a key characteristic of ACR family members shared by haloarchaeal chloride pumps. Of importance for its potential use in optogenetics, despite its 10‐fold lower channel activity than the GtACRs, PsuACR1 exhibits an ~eightfold more rapid channel closing half‐time making it uniquely suitable for silencing the subclass of high‐frequency firing neurons when high‐time resolution is needed. The existence of a rhodopsin with properties similar to G. theta ACRs in a different cryptophyte genus indicates that such proteins may be widespread in the phylum of cryptophyte algae.
The Problem of Self‐Torture: What's Being Done?
Authors: White Stephen J. 
Published: December 2015

We commonly face circumstances in which the cumulative negative effects of repeatedly acting in a certain way over time will be significant, although the negative effects of any one such act, taken on its own, are insubstantial. Warren Quinn's puzzle of the self‐torturer presents an especially clear example of this type of predicament. This paper considers three different approaches to understanding the rational response to such situations. The first focuses on the conditions under which it is rational to revise one's prior intentions. The second raises the possibility of a fundamental disconnect between the rational assessment of an extended pattern of choices and the assessment of the individual choices that make up that pattern. I show that neither adequately addresses the underlying issues. I propose a third approach, according to which the rational assessment of the “self‐torturer's” choices is guided, not by any plan or intention the he has actually adopted, but by the plan or plans it would have been reasonable for him to adopt from the outset. The larger significance of this conclusion is brought out through the identification of conditions under which one's past choices can non‐derivatively constrain the rational response to one's present circumstances.
Harvesting time optimization and risk analysis for the mariculture of Kappaphycus alvarezii (Rhodophyta)
Authors: Domínguez‐May Roger , Gasca‐Leyva Eucario , Robledo Daniel 
Published: December 2015

AbstractKappaphycus alvarezii (Rhodophyta) is an important source of carrageenan, which is commercially cultivated with economic benefits worldwide. In this study, we determined the optimal harvesting time and risk analysis for the mariculture of K. alvarezii in a semi‐intensive commercial cultivation farm using a simulation model. Different growth models were analysed (Von Bertalanffy, Potential, Logistic and Gompertz) for the bioeconomic model developed in this study. Seawater temperature and solar irradiance functions were included as variables with major influence on seaweed growth. The Gompertz growth equation was chosen in accordance with Theil′s statistics and the difference between observed and simulated data. Under the conditions and assumptions considered for this analysis, the scenario that generated the highest profits (USD$ 3353.11) was that for a culture cycle of 135 days and a total biomass production of 13 708.47 kg dry weight cycle−1. Uncertainty was also included using probability density functions through random variables for seawater temperature, solar irradiance and sale price. Different harvest scenarios were obtained through Monte Carlo analysis; decisions under risk conditions and probabilities of being above or below reference points are presented. The results indicated lower risk at optimum harvesting time when the probability of exceeding the established target reference point for the present value (USD$ 2515.15) and biomass produced (34 271.17 kg fresh weight) were around 19.26% and 56.47%, respectively. Discussion on the implications of the use of this analysis for seaweed cultivation management is presented.
Coral propagation: a review of techniques for ornamental trade and reef restoration
Authors: Barton Jonathan A. , Willis Bette L. , Hutson Kate S. 
Published: December 2015

AbstractAquaculture of coral offers an alternative to wild harvest for the ornamental trade and shows considerable promise for restoring reefs and preserving biodiversity. Here, we compare advantages and disadvantages of asexually derived fragments versus sexually derived propagules and in situ versus ex situ nursery phases for the ornamental trade and reef restoration. Asexual propagules, sourced from a donor coral colony that is cut into smaller parts and attached to artificial substrate, are most commonly used. The most suitable corals are typically branching species, although fragments from species with other growth forms can be successful, albeit slower growing. Sexually derived propagules are collected from the wild or from colonies in aquaria during spawning, with an artificial substrate provided for settlement. The timing of spawning is known for many broadcast spawning corals, but opportunities for collection of gametes are generally limited to only once or a few times per year. Brooding species with multiple periods of larval release provide better options for culture of sexually derived propagules. Propagation techniques have developed considerably over the past 20 years, yielding faster growth rates, reduced mortality and reduced detachment from substrates. Simple and cost–effective propagation techniques can be used to restore denuded reefs, preserve endangered species, provide live corals to the international ornamental trade, enable livelihood diversification for coastal communities and provide experimental materials for marine research. This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of recent developments in aquaculture propagation techniques for the purpose of ornamental trade and coral reef restoration, including asexual and sexual propagation, nursery and transplantation stages.
Mesenteric fat thickness is associated with metabolic syndrome independently of Apnoea–Hypopnoea Index in subjects with obstructive sleep apnoea
Authors: Liu Kin Hung , Chu Winnie C.W. , To Kin Wang , Ko Fanny W.S. , Ng Susanna S.S. , Ngai Jenny C.L. , Chan Ka Pang , Yip Wing Ho , Ahuja Anil T. , Hui David S.C. 
Published: December 2015

AbstractBackground and objectiveMesenteric fat thickness (MFT) was associated with metabolic syndrome (MetS) and obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) in separate studies. This study aimed to assess whether the association of MFT with MetS was independent of OSA in subjects with suspected OSA.MethodsTwo hundred forty‐two subjects (men: 181; women: 61) with suspected OSA underwent ultrasound examinations for measurements of mesenteric, subcutaneous and preperitoneal fat thicknesses after overnight polysomnography. Anthropometric measurements and metabolic risk profile were assessed.ResultsTwo hundred twenty‐one (91%) subjects were confirmed to have OSA with Apnoea–Hypopnoea Index (AHI) >5/h. MFT had significant correlation (P < 0.01) with AHI and most MetS components. In partial correlation with adjustment for AHI, MFT had significant correlation (P < 0.01) with most MetS components including fasting plasma glucose (r = 0.25), triglycerides (r = 0.24), HDL cholesterol (r = −0.29) and waist circumference (r = 0.56). In multivariate logistic regression with adjustments for the confounding variables including AHI, MFT was the only variable independently associated with MetS, with the odds ratio of 5.48 (95% CI: 1.5–20.0) for every 1 cm increase of MFT. When the subjects were subdivided into obese (BMI ≥ 27.5 kg/m2) and non‐obese (BMI < 27.5 kg/m2) groups, the positive association of MFT with MetS persisted in the non‐obese group only, with the odds ratio of 22 (95% CI 2.8–174.1) for every 1 cm increase of MFT. The AHI had significant association with MetS in male subjects only.ConclusionMFT, rather than AHI, is the major independent determinant of MetS in subjects with suspected OSA, particularly in non‐obese subjects.See Editorial, page 408
Potential cutaneous hypersensitivity reaction to an inactive ingredient of thyroid hormone supplements in a dog
Authors: Lavergne Sidonie N. , Fosset Fabrice T.J. , Kennedy Peter , Refsal Kent R. 
Published: December 2015

BackgroundAlthough discussions about allergic reactions to thyroid supplements abound on professional forums, there is almost no information in the literature on these specific idiosyncratic drug reactions.AnimalA dog with a history of hypothyroidism‐associated weight gain and mild lethargy was prescribed levothyroxine tablets (0.018 mg/kg twice daily). After 19 days the dog developed a severe skin condition that was responsive to levothyroxine withdrawal, and antibiotic and glucocorticoid therapy. Three weeks later a different levothyroxine tablet was prescribed. Within 48 h the dog developed a more severe cutaneous reaction that resolved with drug discontinuation and appropriate topical care.ObjectivesTo confirm a possible hypersensitivity reaction and identify its chemical target.Methods and resultsThe two prescribed levothyroxine formulations shared two inactive ingredients: magnesium stearate and polyvinylpyrrolidone. Nine months after discontinuation of thyroid supplement, a formulation without either of these two compounds was used for a second re‐challenge. There was no recurrence of the drug reaction and after 1.5 years of treatment the dog remains normal.Conclusions and clinical importanceThese elements strongly suggest that this dog had an idiosyncratic reaction (likely immune‐mediated) against one or both inactive ingredients in the first two formulations of levothyroxine. We are not aware of any previous confirmed delayed hypersensitivity to a thyroid supplement in a dog with the likely chemical trigger being an inactive ingredient rather than the therapeutic agent itself. We hope that this case will raise awareness about allergic reactions to thyroid supplements and allergic reactions to inactive formulation components.
Post‐engraftment blood transfusion and outcomes of bone marrow transplantation
Authors: Mashimo Y. , Ikeda K. , Ohkawara H. , Takahashi H. , Shichishima‐Nakamura A. , Furukawa M. , Kimura S. , Ueda K. , Noji H. , Ogawa K. , Nollet K. E. , Ohto H. , Takeishi Y. 
Published: December 2015

Background and ObjectivesRed blood cell (RBC) transfusion prior to allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT) is linked to poor outcomes, but outcomes related to post‐transplant, especially postengraftment transfusions, have not been fully investigated. We investigated allo‐HSCT outcome in association with early postengraftment transfusion.Materials and MethodsWe reviewed RBC and platelet transfusions in 50 recipients of bone marrow transplantation, specifically analysing postengraftment transfusions from 31 to 60 days post‐transplant with no relapse in our institution.ResultsPostengraftment RBC and/or platelet transfusions were needed in 22 (44·0%) patients. Pretransplant haemoglobin concentrations were negatively correlated with RBC transfusions performed from days 0 to 30, but not postengraftment. Regardless of product type, transfused patients were more anaemic and thrombocytopenic even at day 100, when most of them no longer required transfusion. Patients with postengraftment transfusions, especially those who were transfused both RBC and platelet, showed inferior overall survival (P = 0·016) with increases of both chronic graft‐versus‐host disease and relapse (P = 0·002 and 0·019, respectively). Postengraftment RBC and platelet transfusion were significant predictors for poor survival in multivariable analysis.ConclusionsPostengraftment transfusion may be associated with adverse outcomes of allo‐HSCT.
Molecular analysis of Bombay phenotype cases seen in India
Authors: Gorakshakar A. , Donta A. , Jadhav S. , Vasanta K. , Ghosh K. 
Published: December 2015

Background and ObjectivesThe Bombay phenotype cases do not express the ABH antigens on red blood cells and in body secretions because of the inactivation of H (FUT1) gene and Secretor (FUT2) genes. This rare phenotype was first detected in Mumbai, India, previously known as ‘Bombay’. The presence of T725G mutation in FUT1 gene and deletion of FUT2 gene, both in homozygous condition, has been found to be the cause of Bombay phenotype in individuals originating from India. Thus, the objective of this study was micromapping of all the cases of Bombay phenotype identified at our Institute during the last 60 years and molecular analysis of FUT1 and FUT2 genes in a large number of Bombay phenotype cases.Material and MethodsBombay phenotype cases were confirmed by conventional serological techniques. FUT1 gene in 89 cases was screened for T725G alteration by PCR–RFLP. Deletions in FUT2 gene were detected by specific pairs of primers. Similarly, FUT1 and FUT2 genes were sequenced in all control samples.ResultsIn the present series, 74·2% Bombay phenotype cases were originating from Maharashtra state. T725G was found to be the only mutation in homozygous condition in FUT1 gene in all cases of Bombay phenotype. Similarly, they were homozygous for 10‐kb deletion covering entire FUT2 gene.ConclusionAll the cases of Bombay phenotype reported in this study, originating from different states of India, showed only T725G alteration in FUT1 gene and 10‐kb deletion covering entire FUT2 gene suggesting the unicentric origin of this rare phenotype in India.
Responses of rare and common segetal species to wheat competition and fertiliser type and dose
Authors: Rotchés‐Ribalta R , Blanco‐Moreno J M , Armengot L , Sans F X 
Published: December 2015

SummaryFertiliser application is considered crucial for determining the crop–weed competition relationship by stimulating plant growth and modulating the competition for below‐ground (soil nutrients) and above‐ground resources (e.g. light and space). Segetal species, those preferentially inhabiting cereal fields, have suffered a strong decline, owing to agricultural intensification. Under continued pressure, particularly the rarest species may disappear. In this study, we aimed to assess the competitive ability of common and rare segetal species when growing with wheat and how this competitive relationship is modulated by the type (organic and mineral) and dose (low or high) of fertilisation in a pot experiment. The segetal species grew better at higher doses of fertilisers when growing alone. However, when growing with wheat, they were outcompeted by the cereal plants. Overall, flowering was not affected by the competition with wheat under the different fertiliser regimes. Only the onset of flowering of some segetal weeds tended to be delayed by crop competition. Some rare species were more affected by the competition with wheat, indicating that they may be disadvantaged in a community context. However, not all rare segetal species tested responded in the same way, which highlights that competitiveness alone is a poor predictor of the rarity of segetal species.
MONITORING RUBBER FACTORY MALODOUR USING ARTIFICIAL NEURAL NETWORK
Authors: Abdullah A. H. , Rushdi A. N. A, , Abdul Shukor S. A. , Mustafa H. 
Published: December 2015

Malodour from rubber factory activities is a nuisance to the residence in the surrounding area. The volatile chemical compounds emitted from the factory are identified as the major source of the malodour. This research proposes a study of malodour monitoring for the rubber factory using Electronic Nose (e-nose) system to enable effective malodour monitoring. The proposed system will able to predict and monitor the malodour concentration in the surrounding area of the factory. The finding will be used as a guideline for monitoring the violations of environmental guidelines. The malodour and environment parameters such as temperature, wind speeds and directions are recorded. These parameters are measured on-site and monitored using wireless sensor network (WSN) system. The malodour concentration model of each location will generate using three types of Artificial Neural Network (ANN) i.e. Multilayer Perceptron (MLP), Radial Basis Function (RBF) and Probabilistic Neural Network (PNN). These indices will be used to generate the malodour concentration mapping model of the factory and surrounding areas. The initial results show that the system can be effectively used for real time rubber factory malodour monitoring.