cometadata/datacite-rtg-text-other-reclassification-records huggingface dataset:
Diverse plant extracts and trans-resveratrol inhibit biofilm formation and swarming of Escherichia coli O157:H7
Creators: name: Lee, Jin-Hyung
name: Cho, Hyun Seob
name: Joo, Sang Woo
name: Regmi, Sushil Chandra
name: Kim, Jung-Ae
name: Choong-Min Ryu
name: Ryu, Shi Yong
name: Cho, Moo Hwan
name: Jintae Lee
Publisher: name: Taylor & Francis
Year: 2013
Subjects: Marine Biology

description: Infection with enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli O157:H7 (EHEC) is a worldwide problem. Of the 498 plant extracts screened against EHEC, 16 inhibited the formation of biofilm of EHEC by >85% without inhibiting the growth of planktonic cells, and 14 plant extracts reduced the swarming motility of EHEC. The most active extract, Carex dimorpholepis, decreased swimming and swarming motilities and curli formation. Transcriptional analyses showed that the extract of C. dimorpholepis repressed curli genes, various motility genes, and AI-2 quorum sensing genes, which was corroborated by reduction in the production of fimbria, motility, and biofilm by EHEC. Trans-resveratrol at 10 μg ml−1 in the extract of C. dimorpholepis was found to be a new anti-biofilm compound against EHEC, but importantly, the extract of C. dimorpholepis and trans-resveratrol did not inhibit the fomation of biofilm in four commensal E. coli strains. Furthermore, the extract of C. dimorpholepis decreased the adhesion of EHEC cells to human epithelial cells without affecting the viability of these cells.
The performance of aminoalkyl/fluorocarbon/hydrocarbon-modified xerogel coatings against the marine alga Ectocarpus crouaniorum: relative roles of surface energy and charge
Creators: name: Detty, Michael R.
name: Callow, Maureen E.
name: Callow, James A.
name: Evariste, Emmanuelle
name: Gatley, Caitlyn M.
Publisher: name: Taylor & Francis
Year: 2013
Subjects: Marine Biology

description: The effect of a series of xerogel coatings modified with aminoalkyl/fluorocarbon/hydrocarbon groups on the adhesion of a new test species, the filamentous brown alga Ectocarpus crouaniorum, has been explored, and compared with the green alga Ulva linza. The results showed that E. crouaniorum adhered weakly to the less polar, low wettability coatings in the series, but stronger adhesion was shown on polar, higher surface energy coatings containing aminoalkyl groups. The results from a separate series of coatings tuned to have similar surface energies and polarities after immersion in artificial seawater (ASW), but widely different surface charges, demonstrated that surface charge was more important than surface energy and polarity in determining the adhesion strength of both E. crouaniorum and U. linza on xerogel coatings. No correlation was found between adhesion and contact angle hysteresis. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis of samples after immersion in ASW confirmed the presence of charged ammonium groups on the surface of the aminoalkylated coatings.
Effect of neovestitol–vestitol containing Brazilian red propolis on accumulation of biofilm in vitro and development of dental caries in vivo
Creators: name: B. Bueno-Silva
name: H. Koo
name: M.L. Falsetta
name: S.M. Alencar
name: M. Ikegaki
name: P.L. Rosalen
Publisher: name: Taylor & Francis
Year: 2013
Subjects: Marine Biology

description: The present study examined the influences of the neovestitol–vestitol (NV) containing fraction isolated from Brazilian red propolis on the development of biofilm and expression of virulence factors by Streptococcus mutans using saliva-coated surfaces of hydroxyapatite. In addition, NV was tested in a rodent model of dental caries to assess its potential effectiveness in vivo. Topical applications of NV (800 μg ml−1) significantly impaired the accumulation of biofilms of S. mutans by largely disrupting the synthesis of glucosyltransferase-derived exopolysaccharides and the expression of genes associated with the adaptive stress response, such as copYAZ and sloA. Of even greater impact, NV was as effective as fluoride (positive control) in reducing the development of carious lesions in vivo. NV is a promising natural anti-biofilm agent that targets essential virulence traits in S. mutans, which are associated with the formation of cariogenic biofilm and the subsequent onset of dental caries disease.
Estimated prevalence of physical inactivity and sedentary behaviour among adults in Bangladesh: nationally representative STEPS survey, 2018
Creators: name: Khan, Mohammad Jobair
name: Sayma
name: Ali, Mohammed Usman
name: Ganesan, Balasanker
name: Hasan, S. M. Mahmudul
name: Winser, Stanley John
Publisher: name: Taylor & Francis
Year: 2023
Subjects: subject: Medicine
subject: Genetics
subject: FOS: Biological sciences
subject: Environmental Sciences not elsewhere classified
subject: Science Policy
subject: Sociology
subject: FOS: Sociology
subject: Immunology
subject: FOS: Clinical medicine
subject: Developmental Biology

description: Numerous available studies used to prepare the guidelines for preventing physical inactivity and sedentary behaviour are mostly compatible with high-income countries. The guidelines are scarce for low- and middle-income countries, including Bangladesh. Thus, the prevalence of current levels of physical inactivity and sedentary behaviour needed to be determined to produce effective policies and an intervention strategy for Bangladeshi adults. This cross-sectional study selected adults using the multi-stage cluster sampling method. A representative sample of 8185 adults aged from 18 to 69 years participated. Physical inactivity levels and sedentary behaviour were assessed using the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire. This study reports baseline information on the physical inactivity level and sedentary behaviour among adults in Bangladesh. Overall, the prevalence of physical inactivity was highest in recreation-related activity (90.5%), followed by vigorous activity (67.5%), transport-related activity (44.7%) and work-related activity (19.9%). Insufficient physical activity at work was significant for all sociodemographic indicators. Adults with significantly high school education, women and the employed were proportionally more prone to sedentary behaviour. Five out of ten adults (56%) did not meet the WHO recommended level of physical activity. Adequate public health measures should be addressed considering the different forms of physical inactivity.
An in vivo method for measuring the adsorption of plasma proteins to titanium in humans
Creators: name: D. Kohavi
name: L. Badihi
name: G. Rosen
name: D. Steinberg
name: M.N. Sela
Publisher: name: Taylor & Francis
Year: 2013
Subjects: Marine Biology

description: A novel method of collecting in vivo plasma proteins of humans from osteotomies prepared during insertion of an oral implant is described. A rod containing a collecting portion with a predetermined surface is introduced into the osteomy, removed, and transferred for enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay analysis. Two experiments were used to examine the feasibility of the method. In the first, titanium (Ti) rods with different roughness were exposed for 10 min to the blood. Blasted and acid-etched surfaces adsorbed four times more and acid-etched surfaces adosorbed two times more plasma proteins as compared to machined surfaces. In the second experiment, blasted and acid-etched rods were wetted for 10 s prior to the insertion. The adsorption for fibronectin, albumin, fibrinogen, and IgG was enhanced significantly compared with nonwetted rods. These results are discussed in the light of previous methods used in studies on adsorption. Thus, use of the collecting instrument enables aspects of human plasma–implant interface to be studied in a more realistic manner.
Communicating Astronomy Beyond IYA2009
Creators: name: Fienberg, Rick
Publisher: name: Zenodo
Year: 2010
Subjects: subject: Astronomy

description: The International Year of Astronomy 2009, celebrating the 400th anniversary of Galileo’s first look at the night sky through a telescope, was arguably the most successful public-outreach event in the history of science. Thousands of professional and amateur astronomers, public-information officers, writers, publishers, teachers, and informal educators from 148 countries worked tirelessly to share the wonders of astronomy with millions of people, from rural schoolchildren to the President of the United States. How to build on IYA2009 is the theme of ‘Communicating Astronomy with the Public 2010,’ a conference to be held in Cape Town, South Africa, in mid-March. I’ll report some of the highlights from CAP2010 and consider the extent to which the IYA2009 helped us address global challenges in astronomy communication.
ORCID 2023 Annual Report
Creators: name: ORCID
name: Shillum, Chris
name: Petro, Julie Anne
name: Demeranville, Tom
name: Wijnbergen, Ivo
name: Simpson, Will
name: Tepper, Tommy
name: Hinchliffe, Lisa Janicke
name: Gordon, Gregg
Publisher: name: ORCID
Year: 2024
Subjects: classificationCode: 460999
subject: Information systems not elsewhere classified

description: ORCID's 2023 Annual Report outlines how we built commitment to and engagement with ORCID as an essential element of the research experience, both for researchers and members, so that we can reduce administrative burden for researchers and help our members understand the impact of the research they are facilitating or funding.Read more to find out what we did in 2023 to:
Increase Value to MembersIncrease Value to ResearchersIncrease Global ParticipationUphold Trust and Integrity, andImprove Staff Experience
THE EFFECT OF THORACIC TRAUMA SCORING SYSTEM IN THORACIC TRAUMA PATIENTS WITH RIB FRACTURE
Creators: name: Sarmış, Nihat Berk
name: Kuzucuoğlu, Mustafa
name: Taylan, Keramettin İbrahim
name: Yekdeş, Ali Cem
name: Ünal, Mehmet
name: Şirzai, Serdar
name: Sakarıya, Bayram Çağrı
name: Acar, Arkın
Publisher: name: Taylor & Francis
Year: 2024
Subjects: subject: Medicine
subject: Sociology
subject: FOS: Sociology
subject: Science Policy
subject: Mental Health

description: Rib fractures are common in thoracic trauma patients. There are various factors, including flail chest, pulmonary contusion, and accompanying conditions, affecting morbidity and mortality. The study aimed to identify high-risk patients for morbidity and mortality with a scoring system that the authors created. Cases over the age of 18 admitted due to trauma and diagnosed with rib fractures between January 01, 2019, and March 01, 2023, were included. Trauma scores were determined by applying the new trauma scoring system. Trauma scores and other variables regarding morbidity and mortality were evaluated. A total of 1023 cases were included in the study. The total trauma scores were higher in bilateral and multiple fractures. In those without respiratory failure, the total score was statistically significantly lower than in the groups with respiratory failure. The total score was significantly higher in those who needed surgery, those who were hospitalized, and those who needed intensive care compared to the non-surgical groups. However, there was no correlation between intensive care unit stay and total score. Trauma mechanism, presence of additional extrathoracic pathology, and thoracic trauma-age score were independent predictors of survival. The present study demonstrated that the number of rib fractures and the presence of pulmonary contusion did not have an effect on mortality and morbidity. The presence of extrathoracic pathology and age significantly affect survival.
Elucidating the structural and conformational factors responsible for the activity and substrate specificity of alkanesulfonate monooxygenase
Creators: name: V. Ferrario
name: P. Braiuca
name: P. Tessaro
name: L. Knapic
name: C. Gruber
name: J. Pleiss
name: C. Ebert
name: E. Eichhorn
name: L. Gardossi
Publisher: name: Taylor & Francis
Year: 2012
Subjects: Molecular Biology

description: The mechanism and substrate specificity of alkanesulfonate monooxygenase (SsuD) was investigated by combining molecular dynamics simulations, docking, and a comprehensive quantitative structure activity relationships (QSAR) analysis. The FMNH2 dependent monooxygenase undergoes a dynamic conformational change of the active site, passing from a closed to an open state. As a consequence, substrates have access to the active site and the cofactor is then regenerated by the associated oxidoreductase FMN reductase SsuE.. Computational analysis of the interaction of SsuD with FMNH2 based on molecular docking and multiple 20 ns molecular dynamics simulations pointed out that the conformational change is mainly driven by salt bridge formation between Arg297 and Glu20 or Asp111. A set of substrates accepted by SsuD were described by means of ALMOND chemical descriptors and a partial least square (PLS) mathematical model was constructed. The PLS model correlates the structure of substrates and enzyme activity, namely kinetic properties (kcat/KM). Therefore, information coming from the PLS analysis goes beyond the simple ability of the enzyme to recognize the substrate, but includes the factors that affect the capacity of the enzyme to reduce the activation energy of the rate determining step of the reaction. The two principal components of the model are able to describe both steric and electronic factors and, more importantly, their interactions. Indeed, interactions of factors appear to affect significantly the ability of SsuD of transforming efficiently a substrate.
title: Psycho-Physical Interactions in Parkinson's Disease: 12-month Cohort Study
Creators: name: Olamaie, Malak
name: Hodgson, Philip
name: Charura, Divine
name: Sinani, Charikleia
name: Dr Alastair Jordan
Publisher: name: OSF Registries
Year: 2024
Subjects: subject: Medicine and Health Sciences

description: Parkinson's disease (PD) is a condition in which parts of the brain become progressively damaged over many years. The main symptoms of Parkinson's disease are involuntary shaking, slow movement and stiff inflexible muscles. Alongside physical symptoms of PD, there can also be an impact upon on individual’s mental wellbeing. Symptoms of depression, delusions, paranoia, and hallucinations are common either due to PD itself or as side effects of some medications. Research has shown that the occurrence and risk of depression, anxiety, schizophrenia and psychotic symptoms in individuals with PD is higher when compared to the general population. There is limited research into how many of the common physical and psychological symptoms of PD may relate to one another. There is previous research to suggest that anxiety may increase some physical symptoms such as freezing of gait. However, this has not been investigated in detail, nor have any changes in physical and psychological symptoms been monitored together over a prolonged period. Improving our understanding of how these symptoms may affect each other may allow us to improve treatments and services for people with PD. This study aims to explore the relationship between some of the common physical and psychological symptoms of PD. Within the planned research, the severity of certain physical and psychological symptoms will be monitored over time. Psychological symptoms such as depression, anxiety, stress, and apathy will be assessed by asking participants to complete questionnaires at home and will take approximately 90 minutes. Physical assessments of balance, mobility and physical endurance will be assessed at York St John University and it will take about 90 minutes including periods of rest. All physical and psychological assessments will be repeated once every 6-months throughout the 12-month study period. We hope that this study will begin to improve our knowledge of the relationship between the physical and psychological symptoms of PD, and how this develops over time. This information will allow us to suggest how to optimise assessment and treatment pathways for people with PD.
Formation of biofilms under phage predation: considerations concerning a biofilm increase
Creators: name: Tufenkji, Nathalie
name: Hosseinidoust, Zeinab
name: Ven, Theo G.M. Van De
Publisher: name: Taylor & Francis
Year: 2013
Subjects: Marine Biology

description: Bacteriophages are emerging as strong candidates for combating bacterial biofilms. However, reports indicating that host populations can, in some cases, respond to phage predation by an increase in biofilm formation are of concern. This study investigates whether phage predation can enhance the formation of biofilm and if so, if this phenomenon is governed by the emergence of phage-resistance or by non-evolutionary mechanisms (eg spatial refuge). Single-species biofilms of three bacterial pathogens (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella enterica serotype Typhimurium, and Staphylococcus aureus) were pretreated and post-treated with species-specific phages. Some of the phage treatments resulted in an increase in the levels of biofilm of their host. It is proposed that the phenotypic change brought about by acquiring phage resistance is the main reason for the increase in the level of biofilm of P. aeruginosa. For biofilms of S. aureus and S. enterica Typhimurium, although resistance was detected, increased formation of biofilm appeared to be a result of non-evolutionary mechanisms.
title: Responsible until proven otherwise?: Germany holds Russia responsible for the use of a chemical weapon in the poisoning of Alexei Navalny
Creators: name: Talmon, Stefan
name: Lobo, Mary
Publisher: name: Fachinformationsdienst für internationale und interdisziplinäre Rechtsforschung
Year: 2021
Subjects: subject: 341

description: GPIL - German Practice in International Law
Dissecting structural basis of the unique substrate selectivity of human enteropeptidase catalytic subunit
Creators: name: Ostapchenko, Valeriy G.
name: Efremov, Roman G.
name: Gasparian, Marine E.
name: Kosinsky, Yurij A.
name: Dolgikh, Dmitry A.
name: Kirpichnikov, Mikhail P.
Publisher: name: Taylor & Francis
Year: 2012
Subjects: Molecular Biology

description: Enteropeptidase is a key enzyme in the digestion system of higher animals. It initiates enzymatic cascade cleaving trypsinogen activation peptide after a unique sequence DDDDK. Recently, we have found specific activity of human enteropeptidase catalytic subunit (L-HEP) being significantly higher than that of its bovine ortholog (L-BEP). Moreover, we have discovered that L-HEP hydrolyzed several nonspecific peptidic substrates. In this work, we aimed to further characterize species-specific enteropeptidase activities and to reveal their structural basis. First, we compared hydrolysis of peptides and proteins lacking DDDDK sequence by L-HEP and L-BEP. In each case human enzyme was more efficient, with the highest hydrolysis rate observed for substrates with a large hydrophobic residue in P2-position. Computer modeling suggested enzyme exosite residues 96 (Arg in L-HEP, Lys in L-BEP) and 219 (Lys in L-HEP, Gln in L-BEP) to be responsible for these differences in enteropeptidase catalytic activity. Indeed, human-to-bovine mutations Arg96Lys, Lys219Gln shifted catalytic properties of L-HEP toward those of L-BEP. This effect was amplified in case of the double mutation Arg96Lys/Lys219Gln, but still did not cover the full difference in catalytic activities of human and bovine enzymes. To find a missing link, we studied monopeptide benzyl-arginine-β-naphthylamide hydrolysis. L-HEP catalyzed it with an order lower Km than L-BEP, suggesting the monopeptide-binding S1 site input into catalytic distinction between two enteropeptidase species. Together, our findings suggest structural basis of the unique catalytic properties of human enteropeptidase and instigate further studies of its tentative physiological and pathological roles.
Isolation and physico-chemical characterisation of extracellular polymeric substances produced by the marine bacterium Vibrio parahaemolyticus
Creators: name: Mishra, Avinash
name: Bhavanath Jha
name: Kavita, Kumari
Publisher: name: Taylor & Francis
Year: 2011
Subjects: Marine Biology

description: A marine bacterial strain identified as Vibrio parahaemolyticus by 16S rRNA gene (HM355955) sequencing and gas chromatography (GC) coupled with MIDI was selected from a natural biofilm by its capability to produce extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). The EPS had an average molecule size of 15.278 μm and exhibited characteristic diffraction peaks at 5.985°, 9.150° and 22.823°, with d-spacings of 14.76661, 9.29989 and 3.89650 Å, respectively. The Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectrum revealed aliphatic methyl, primary amine, halide groups, uronic acid and saccharides. Gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GCMS) confirmed the presence of arabinose, galactose, glucose and mannose. 1HNMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) revealed functional groups characteristic of polysaccharides. The EPS were amorphous in nature (CIxrd 0.092), with a 67.37% emulsifying activity, thermostable up to 250°C and displayed pseudoplastic rheology. MALDI-TOF–TOF analysis revealed a series of masses, exhibiting low-mass peaks (m/z) corresponding to oligosaccharides and higher-mass peaks for polysaccharides consisting of different ratios of pentose and hexose moieties. This is the first report of a detailed characterisation of the EPS produced by V. parahaemolyticus, which could be further explored for biotechnological and industrial use.
Launaea arborescens Murb.
Creators: name: Mannheimer, Coleen
Publisher: name: Zenodo
Year: 2023
Subjects: Biodiversity
Taxonomy
Plantae
Tracheophyta
Magnoliopsida
Asterales
Asteraceae
Launaea
Launaea arborescens

description: Launaea arborescens (Batt.) Murb. (adapted from Kilian 1997)  Dense, intricate, spinescent, irregularly hemispherical shrub, usually up to 1 m high, almost leafless (Figures 2 and 3). Branches terete, divaricately and intricately branched, with distinct joints and spinescent terminal segments; young branches stiff, green, smooth, waxy, becoming greyish brown with age. Latex whitish with unpleasant smell. Leaves clustered at the bases of the lower branches, somewhat succulent, blue-green, mostly narrowly spathulate to linear in outline, soon deciduous, higher up the shoots reduced to inconspicuous, ovate-acute bracts. Capitulae (‘flowers’) bright yellow, up to 16 mm in diameter, always terminal and single on the peduncles, which persist as spines after shedding of the capitulae. Capitula with 7–19 florets (‘petals’), each with five ‘teeth’ at the tip. Involucre up to 15 mm long, cylindrical to conical. Achenes with 5 main ribs accompanied by 2 secondary ribs, with transverse, roundish, and tuberculate wrinkles, often somewhat powdery-papillose, brown. Pappus 5–8 mm long, comprising numerous white, setaceous rays.
 A specimen (Antje Burke AB20007) was deposited at the National Botanical Research Institute in Windhoek, which is the first record of the plant in southern Africa.
description: Published as part of Mannheimer, Coleen, 2023, First record of the North African Launaea arborescens in southern Africa, pp. 1-10 in Bothalia (a 7) (a 7) 53 (1) on page 3, DOI: 10.38201/btha.abc.v53.i1.7, http://zenodo.org/record/12729421
Adhesion of algal cells to surfaces
Creators: name: Ozkan, Altan
name: Berberoglu, Halil
Publisher: name: Taylor & Francis
Year: 2013
Subjects: Marine Biology

description: This paper reports the cell–substratum interactions of planktonic (Chlorella vulgaris) and benthic (Botryococcus sudeticus) freshwater green algae with hydrophilic (glass) and hydrophobic (indium tin oxide) substrata to determine the critical parameters controlling the adhesion of algal cells to surfaces. The surface properties of the algae and substrata were quantified by measuring contact angle, electrophoretic mobility, and streaming potential. Using these data, the cell–substratum interactions were modeled using thermodynamic, DLVO, and XDLVO approaches. Finally, the rate of attachment and the strength of adhesion of the algal cells were quantified using a parallel-plate flow chamber. The results indicated that (1) acid–base interactions played a critical role in the adhesion of algae, (2) the hydrophobic alga attached at a higher density and with a higher strength of adhesion on both substrata, and (3) the XDLVO model was the most accurate in predicting the density of cells and their strength of adhesion. These results can be used to select substrata to promote/inhibit the adhesion of algal cells to surfaces.
The specific degree-of-polymerization of A-type proanthocyanidin oligomers impacts Streptococcus mutans glucan-mediated adhesion and transcriptome responses within biofilms
Creators: name: Guoping Feng
name: Klein, Marlise I.
name: Singh, Ajay P.
name: Nicholi Vorsa
name: Koo, Hyun
name: Gregoire, Stacy
Publisher: name: Taylor & Francis
Year: 2013
Subjects: Marine Biology

description: Cranberry A-type proanthocyanidins (PACs) have been recognized for their inhibitory activity against bacterial adhesion and biofilm-derived infections. However, the precise identification of the specific classes of degree-of-polymerization (DP) conferring PACs bioactivity remains a major challenge owing to the complex chemistry of these flavonoids. In this study, chemically characterized cranberries were used in a multistep separation and structure-determination technique to isolate A-type PAC oligomers of defined DP. The influences of PACs on the 3D architecture of biofilms and Streptococcus mutans-transcriptome responses within biofilms were investigated. Treatment regimens that simulated topical exposures experienced clinically (twice-daily, 60 s each) were used over a saliva-coated hydroxyapatite biofilm model. Biofilm accumulation was impaired, while specific genes involved in the adhesion of bacteria, acid stress tolerance, and glycolysis were affected by the topical treatments (vs the vehicle-control). Genes (rmpC, mepA, sdcBB, and gbpC) associated with sucrose-dependent binding of bacteria were repressed by PACs. PACs of DP 4 and particularly DP 8 to 13 were the most effective in disrupting bacterial adhesion to glucan-coated apatitic surface (>85% inhibition vs vehicle control), and gene expression (eg rmpC). This study identified putative molecular targets of A-type cranberry PACs in S. mutans while demonstrating that PAC oligomers with a specific DP may be effective in disrupting the assembly of cariogenic biofilms.
Techwear als verkörperte Verletzlichkeit: Death Strandings materielle Kritik posthumaner Resilienz (Abstract)
Creators: name: Mummelthei, Victoria
Publisher: name: Sammelband "Kostüm und Kostümierung: von theatralen, sozialen und technologischen Dimensionen des Rollentauschs" (Loredana Columbo und Selina Seibel (Universität Stuttgart))
Year: 2025
Subjects: game studies
digital games
video games
Videospiele
digitale Spiele
Computerspiele
techwear
Death Stranding
Kostüm
Kostümierung
Verhüllen
Enthüllen
posthumanism
environmental humanities

description: Essayvorschlag für einen Beitrag im Sammelband "Kostüm und Kostümierung: von theatralen, sozialen und technologischen Dimensionen des Rollentauschs" (Loredana Columbo und Selina Seibel (Universität Stuttgart))
A novel biofilm channel for evaluating the adhesion of diatoms to non-biocidal coatings
Creators: name: Finlay, John A.
name: Cone, Gemma
name: Callow, Maureen E.
name: Callow, James A.
name: Schultz, Michael P.
Publisher: name: Taylor & Francis
Year: 2013
Subjects: Marine Biology

description: Laboratory assessment of the adhesion of diatoms to non-toxic fouling-release coatings has tended to focus on single cells rather than the more complex state of a biofilm. A novel culture system based on open channel flow with adjustable bed shear stress values (0–2.4 Pa) has been used to produce biofilms of Navicula incerta. Biofilm development on glass and polydimethylsiloxane elastomer (PDMSe) showed a biphasic relationship with bed shear stress, which was characterised by regions of biofilm stability and instability reflecting cohesion between cells relative to the adhesion to the substratum. On glass, a critical shear stress of 1.3–1.4 Pa prevented biofilm development, whereas on PDMS, biofilms continued to grow at 2.4 Pa. Studies of diatom biofilms cultured on zwitterionic coatings using a bed shear stress of 0.54 Pa showed lower biomass production and adhesion strength on poly(sulfobetaine methacrylate) compared to poly(carboxybetaine methacrylate). The dynamic biofilm approach provides additional information to supplement short duration laboratory evaluations.
Keys for Forest Types Classification Schemes to support the reporting of Support Sustainable Forest Management Indicators in Various Contexts
Creators: name: Giannetti, Francesca
Publisher: name: Zenodo
Year: 2025
Subjects: Sustainable forest management
Farming/Forestry competitiveness and diversification
Decisional Support System

description: For biodiversity monitoring, GO-SURF has emphasized the need for standardization efforts, even through simple solutions such as transition tables.
The effect of surface colour on the formation of marine micro and macrofouling communities
Creators: name: Voolstra, Christian R.
name: Dobretsov, Sergey
name: Raeid M.M. Abed
Publisher: name: Taylor & Francis
Year: 2013
Subjects: Marine Biology

description: The effect of substratum colour on the formation of micro- and macro fouling communities was investigated. Acrylic tiles, painted either black or white were covered with transparent sheets in order to ensure similar surface properties. All substrata were exposed to biofouling at 1 m depth for 40 d in the Marina Bandar al Rowdha (Muscat, Sea of Oman). Studies were conducted in 2010 over a time course of 5, 10 and 20 d, and in 2012 samples were collected at 7, 14 and 21 d. The densities of bacteria on the black and white substrata were similar with the exception of day 10, when the black substrata had a higher abundance than white ones. Pyrosequencing via 454 of 16S rRNA genes of bacteria from white and black substrata revealed that Alphaproteobacteria and Firmicutes were the dominant groups. SIMPER analysis demonstrated that bacterial phylotypes (uncultured Gammaproteobacteria, Actibacter, Gaetbulicola, Thalassobius and Silicibacter) and the diatoms (Navicula directa, Navicula sp. and Nitzschia sp.) contributed to the dissimilarities between communities developed on white and black substrata. At day 20, the highest amount of chlorophyll a was recorded in biofilms developed on black substrata. SIMPER analysis showed that Folliculina sp., Ulva sp. and Balanus amphitrite were the major macro fouling species that contributed to the dissimilarities between the communities formed on white and black substrata. Higher densities of these species were observed on black tiles. The results emphasise the effect of substratum colour on the formation of micro and macro fouling communities; substratum colour should to be taken into account in future studies.
Coral-associated bacteria, quorum sensing disrupters, and the regulation of biofouling
Creators: name: Golberg, Karina
name: Pavlov, Valentina
name: Marks, Robert S.
name: Kushmaro, Ariel
Publisher: name: Taylor & Francis
Year: 2013
Subjects: Marine Biology

description: Marine biofouling, the settlement of microorganisms and macroorganisms on structures submerged in seawater, although economically detrimental, is a successful strategy for survival in hostile environments, where coordinated bacterial communities establish biofilms via the regulation of quorum sensing (QS) communication systems. The inhibition of QS activity among bacteria isolated from different coral species was investigated to gain further insight into its potency in the attenuation, or even the prevention, of undesirable biofouling on marine organisms. It is hypothesized that coral mucus/microorganism interactions are competitive, suggesting that the dominant communities secrete QS disruptive compounds. One hundred and twenty bacterial isolates were collected from healthy coral species and screened for their ability to inhibit QS using three bioreporter strains. Approximately 12, 11, and 24% of the isolates exhibited anti-QS activity against Escherichia coli pSB1075, Chromobacterium violaceum CV026, and Agrobacterium tumefaciens KYC55 indicator strains, respectively. Isolates with positive activity against the bioluminescent monitor strains were scanned via a cytotoxic/genotoxic, E. coli TV1061 and DPD2794 antimicrobial panel. Isolates detected by C. violaceum CV026 and A. tumefaciens KYC55 reporter strains were tested for their ability to inhibit the growth of these reporter strains, which were found to be unaffected. Tests of the Favia sp. coral isolate Fav 2-50-7 (>98% similarity to Vibrio harveyi) for its ability to attenuate the formation of biofilm showed extensive inhibitory activity against biofilms of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii. To ascertain the stability and general structure of the active compound, cell-free culture supernatants exposed to an increasing temperature gradient or to digestion by proteinase K, were shown to maintain potent QS attenuation and the ability to inhibit the growth of biofilms. Mass spectrometry confirmed the presence of a low molecular mass compound. The anti-QS strategy exemplified in the coral mucus is a model with potentially wide applications, including countering the ecological threat posed by biofilms. Manipulating synchronized bacterial behavior by detecting new QS inhibitors will facilitate the discovery of new antifouling compounds.
Seasonal variation in the antifouling defence of the temperate brown alga Fucus vesiculosus
Creators: name: Wahl, Martin
name: Mahasweta Saha
Publisher: name: Taylor & Francis
Year: 2013
Subjects: Marine Biology

description: The important role of marine epibiotic biofilms in the interactions of the host with its environment has been acknowledged recently. Previous studies with the temperate brown macroalga Fucus vesiculosus have identified polar and non-polar compounds recovered from the algal surface that have the potential to control such biofilms. Furthermore, both the fouling pressure and the composition of the epibiotic bacterial communities on this macroalga varied seasonally. The extent to which this reflects a seasonal fluctuation of the fouling control mechanisms of the host is, however, unexplored in an ecological context. The present study investigated seasonal variation in the anti-settlement activity of surface extracts of F. vesiculosus against eight biofilm-forming bacteria isolated from rockweed-dominated habitats, including replication of two populations from two geographically distant sites. The anti-settlement activity at both sites was found to vary temporally, reaching a peak in summer/autumn. Anti-settlement activity also showed a consistent and strong difference between sites throughout the year. This study is the first to report temporal variation of antifouling defence originating from ecologically relevant surface-associated compounds.
The impact of culture medium on the development and physiology of biofilms of Pseudomonas fluorescens formed on polyurethane paint
Creators: name: Crookes-Goodson, Wendy J.
name: Bojanowski, Caitlin L.
name: Kay, Michelle L.
name: Lloyd, Pamela F.
name: Blankemeier, Andrew
name: Hurtubise, Jennifer M.
name: Singh, Kristi M.
name: Barlow, Daniel E.
name: Ladouceur, Harold D.
name: D. Matt Eby
name: Johnson, Glenn R.
name: Mirau, Peter A.
name: Pehrsson, Pehr E.
name: Fraser, Hamish L.
name: Russell, John N.
Publisher: name: Taylor & Francis
Year: 2013
Subjects: Marine Biology

description: Microbial biofilms cause the deterioration of polymeric coatings such as polyurethanes (PUs). In many cases, microbes have been shown to use the PU as a nutrient source. The interaction between biofilms and nutritive substrata is complex, since both the medium and the substratum can provide nutrients that affect biofilm formation and biodeterioration. Historically, studies of PU biodeterioration have monitored the planktonic cells in the medium surrounding the material, not the biofilm. This study monitored planktonic and biofilm cell counts, and biofilm morphology, in long-term growth experiments conducted with Pseudomonas fluorescens under different nutrient conditions. Nutrients affected planktonic and biofilm cell numbers differently, and neither was representative of the system as a whole. Microscopic examination of the biofilm revealed the presence of intracellular storage granules in biofilms grown in M9 but not yeast extract salts medium. These granules are indicative of nutrient limitation and/or entry into stationary phase, which may impact the biodegradative capability of the biofilm.
Species richness and seasonality of bees (Hymenoptera, Apoidea) in a restinga area in Santa Catarina, southern Brazil
Creators: name: Kamke, Rafael
name: Zillikens, Anne
name: Steiner, Josefina
Publisher: name: Taylor & Francis
Year: 2011
Subjects: Environmental Science

description: Species richness and seasonality of a bee community were studied in a restinga area in Palhoça, Santa Catarina, southern Brazil. Twice a month during a year, from September 2004 to September 2005, bees were collected on flowers, in flight and with trap-nests. A total of 784 individuals belonging to 64 species of the families Apidae, Colletidae, Halictidae and Megachilidae were collected. Halictidae was the most rich and abundant family, followed by Apidae. Species richness peaks in summer whereas only a few species of Apidae and mainly Halictidae were active in the coldest months of the year. This clear seasonal pattern of activity appears to be a general characteristic of subtropical bee communities in Brazil. Comparison with others studies in restinga of Santa Catarina was made, as also the total apifauna of restinga in Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina and Paraná are presented.
An insight into the origin and functional evolution of bacterial aromatic ring-hydroxylating oxygenases
Creators: name: Joydeep Chakraborty
name: Debajyoti Ghosal
name: Arindam Dutta
name: Dutta, Tapan K.
Publisher: name: Taylor & Francis
Year: 2012
Subjects: Molecular Biology

description: Bacterial aromatic ring-hydroxylating oxygenases (RHOs) are multicomponent enzyme systems which have potential utility in bioremediation of aromatic compounds in the environment. To cope with the enormous diversity of aromatic compounds in the environment, this enzyme family has evolved remarkably exhibiting broad substrate specificity. RHOs are multicomponent enzymes comprising of a homo- or hetero-multimeric terminal oxygenase and one or more electron transport (ET) protein(s). The present study attempts in depicting the evolutionary scenarios that might have occurred during the evolution of RHOs, by analyzing a set of available sequences including those obtained from complete genomes. A modified classification scheme identifying four new RHO types has been suggested on the basis of their evolutionary and functional behaviours, in relation to structural configuration of substrates and preferred oxygenation site(s). The present scheme emphasizes on the fact that the phylogenetic affiliation of RHOs is distributed among four distinct ‘Similarity classes’, independent of the constituent ET components. Similar combination of RHO components that was previously considered to be equivalent and classified together [Kweon et al., BMC Biochemistry 9, 11 (2008)] were found here in distinct similarity classes indicating the role of substrate-binding terminal oxygenase in guiding the evolution of RHOs irrespective of the nature of constituent ET components. Finally, a model for evolution of the multicomponent RHO enzyme system has been proposed, beginning from genesis of the terminal oxygenase components followed by recruitment of constituent ET components, finally evolving into various ‘extant’ RHO types.
Filling the ‘Corallian Gap’: re-description of a metriorhynchid crocodylomorph from the Oxfordian (Late Jurassic) of Headington, England
Creators: name: Young, Mark T.
Publisher: name: Taylor & Francis
Year: 2013
Subjects: Biological Sciences
History

description: Re-description of a long-known, but little studied, metriorhynchid crocodylomorph from the Oxfordian of England begins to help fill the ‘Corallian Gap’. This ‘Gap’ represents a paucity of vertebrate remains from the Oxfordian of England. Filling the ‘Corallian Gap’ has important implications for our understanding of metriorhynchids from England, especially as there was a shift in this ecosystem from being metriorhynchine dominated in the older Oxford Clay Formation, to a geosaurine-dominated fauna in the younger Kimmeridge Clay Formation. The re-description of the specimen reveals that it is a member of the derived subclade Geosaurini, which most likely pertains to the genus Torvoneustes.
Inhibition of Streptococcus mutans biofilm accumulation and development of dental caries in vivo by 7-epiclusianone and fluoride
Creators: name: Santos, Marcelo H. Dos
name: Koo, Hyun
name: Murata, Ramiro M.
name: Branco-De-Almeida, Luciana S.
name: Franco, Eliane M.
name: Regiane Yatsuda
name: Alencar, Severino M. De
name: Rosalen, Pedro L.
Publisher: name: Taylor & Francis
Year: 2010
Subjects: Marine Biology

description: 7-Epiclusianone (7-epi), a novel naturally occurring compound isolated from Rheedia brasiliensis, effectively inhibits the synthesis of exopolymers and biofilm formation by Streptococcus mutans. In the present study, the ability of 7-epi, alone or in combination with fluoride (F), to disrupt biofilm development and pathogenicity of S. mutans in vivo was examined using a rodent model of dental caries. Treatment (twice-daily, 60s exposure) with 7-epi, alone or in combination with 125 ppm F, resulted in biofilms with less biomass and fewer insoluble glucans than did those treated with vehicle-control, and they also displayed significant cariostatic effects in vivo (p
title: Germany mistakenly considers Russia’s restrictions on navigation of warships in the Black Sea to be “very problematic” and, in part, “contrary to international law”
Creators: name: Talmon, Stefan
Publisher: name: Fachinformationsdienst für internationale und interdisziplinäre Rechtsforschung
Year: 2021
Subjects: subject: 341

description: GPIL - German Practice in International Law
Feasibility of implementing a Total Worker Health® intervention during the COVID-19 pandemic in small- and medium-sized businesses: Results from the Carolina PROSPER study
Creators: name: McAden, Emily P.
name: Linnan, Laura A.
name: Nylander-French, Leena A.
name: Greenberg, Rosa W.
name: Staley, John A.
name: Leff, Maija S.
Publisher: name: The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill University Libraries
Year: 2023

description: Objective In response to the COVID-19 pandemic’s disruptive effect on employers and workers, an interdisciplinary team launched the Carolina Promoting Safe Practices for Employees’ Return (PROSPER) study to assess the feasibility of providing tailored technical assistance to small- and medium-sized North Carolina businesses using a Total Worker Health® approach. Methods Feasibility of the approach was assessed via surveys and interviews of business representatives from four participating businesses ranging in size from 3 to 110 employees. Results The Total Worker Health (“TWH”) approach is feasible, i.e., in demand, practical, and acceptable to protect and promote worker safety, health, and well-being. Potential challenges include implementation cost, difficulty engaging all employees, and difficulty accessing tailored health and safety materials in a timely manner. Conclusions Additional refinement and testing of the TWH approach post-pandemic with more worksites is warranted.
COVID-19 Stress and Child Behavior: Examining Discrimination and Social Support in Racially Diverse ECHO Cohorts
Creators: name: Wilson, Constance L.
name: Nozadi, Sara S.
name: Lewis, Johnnye
name: Elliott, Amy J.
name: Churchill, Marie L.
name: MacKenzie, Debra
name: Bekelman, Traci A.
name: Brennan, Patricia A.
name: Program collaborators for Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes
name: Ganiban, Jody M.
name: Fry, Rebecca C.
name: Dunlop, Anne L.
name: McEvoy, Cindy T.
name: Margolis, Amy E.
name: McGrath, Monica
name: Ghassabian, Akhgar
name: Williams, Lue
Publisher: name: Elsevier
Year: 2023

description: Objective
To examine the additive or moderating influences of caregiver COVID-19–related stress, social support, and discrimination on children’s behavior problems across racially diverse populations.
Method
In this Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) cohort study (N = 1,999 caregiver/child pairs), we operationalized caregiver COVID-19–related stress in 2 ways: first, as the number of stressors (eg, financial concerns, social distancing); and second, as the level of pandemic-related traumatic stress symptoms reported via questionnaires administered between April 2020 and August 2022. At the same assessment visit, caregivers also reported their current levels of discrimination, and a subsample (n = 968) reported their emotional and instrumental support. Either concurrently or at a later assessment visit, caregivers reported on their children’s internalizing and externalizing behavior problems using the Child Behavior Checklist for Ages 6-18 (CBCL/6-18).
Results
Multivariable analyses controlling for maternal education, marital status, child age, and child sex revealed that COVID-19–related stress (caregiver stressors and symptoms) and discrimination were positively associated, and that perceived support was negatively associated with child internalizing and externalizing behavior problems. Unexpectedly, neither emotional nor instrumental support attenuated the relationship between caregiver COVID-19–related stressors nor traumatic stress symptoms and child behavior problems. In the subset of Black American participants, caregiver perceived discrimination moderated the relationship between caregiver COVID-19 traumatic stress symptoms and child internalizing problems, such that the association was stronger at higher levels of discrimination.
Conclusion
Our findings highlight the potential importance of relieving caregiver stress and increasing caregiver social support to optimize children’s behavioral outcomes.
Policy Cloud - Big Data Distilling Services through EOSC
Creators: name: Elwood, Ross
name: Ferguson, Nicholas
name: Willems, Marieke
name: Cauhé, Elisa
Publisher: name: Zenodo
Year: 2020
Subjects: EOSChub
EOSC
Policy Cloud

description: Policy cloud services will turn illegible data into a readable format through innovative analytical tools. Using this now readable data our policy orientated modelling tools inform policy in the way public administration or business needs to.
 Our tools come with built in privacy and security for sensitive data. This is part of six main services that have been designed to take vast amounts of raw data, clean it, sort it, and adapt it to a policy making scenario.
 These Policy Cloud service will be delivered through the EGI federated cloud through EOSC.
 Policy Cloud will create a major change in how we use data. Public participation through crowdsourcing of data will become far more streamlined, easy and ethically positive. It will enlarge the evidence base for effective policy, making it more predictable. As well as facilitating interoperability through reusable tools.
 These are not just plans and hopes but are ideas that are actually happening now. We have four pilot cases that are implementing all of the aspects of Policy Cloud. Based in Bulgaria, Italy, Spain and UK they range from fighting radicalisation online to creating a more sustainable agriculture environment. The list of interesting uses goes on and you can find out more information, including interviews, articles and graphics on our newly revamped website. So, join our community, the exciting journey has only just begun.