bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Why do information system controls fail to prevent unethical behavior?
Authors: Sherif Karma , Pitre Richard , Kamara Mariatu
Published: May 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the ability of enterprise systems and embedded controls to prevent unethical behavior within organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use a case study to explore how the configuration of information technology (IT) controls within enterprise systems and their effectiveness in preventing unethical behavior is compromised by the tone at the top.

Findings

The study highlights the decisive role of cultural values and leadership in moderating the relationship between IT controls and unethical behavior and the realization that ethical environments are socially constructed not enforced.

Research limitations/implications

The limitation of this research is that the authors conducted one case study in an institution of higher education to refute the theory that IT controls embedded within enterprise systems can prevent unethical, and thus, the results may not be generalizable to other industries.

Practical implications

An important implication of the research is that the configuration of information system controls is affected by the organizational culture and the ethical values embraced by top management. When the tone at the top does not emphasize the ethical code of conduct, the configuration of IT controls will be compromised leaving organizations vulnerable at all levels.

Originality/value

Although the authors have a wealth of knowledge on ethics and theories that explain why unethical decision-making continue to surface to the headlines, they have little explanation as to why enterprise systems fail to stop unethical behavior in organizations. This study explores technical, organizational and individual factors that contribute to unethical decision-making.
Effect of a self‐adhesive coating on the load‐bearing capacity of tooth‐coloured restorative materials
Authors: Bagheri R , Palamara JEA , Mese A , Manton DJ
Published: May 2016

Background

The aim of this study was to compare the flexural strength and Vickers hardness of tooth‐coloured restorative materials with and without applying a self‐adhesive coating for up to 6 months.

Methods

Specimens were prepared from three resin composites (RC), two resin‐modified glass‐ionomer cements (RM‐GIC) and two conventional glass‐ionomer cements (CGIC). All materials were tested both with and without applying G‐Coat Plus (GCP). Specimens were conditioned in 37 °C distilled deionized water for 24 h, and 1, 3 and 6 months. The specimens were strength tested using a four‐point bend test jig in a universal testing machine. The broken specimen's halves were used for Vickers hardness testing. Representative specimens were examined under an environmental scanning electron microscope.

Results

Data analysis showed that regardless of time and materials, generally the surface coating was associated with a significant increase in the flexural strength of the materials. Applying the GCP decreased the hardness of almost all materials significantly (P < 0.05) and effect of time intervals on hardness was material dependent.

Conclusions

The load‐bearing capacity of the restorative materials was affected by applying self‐adhesive coating and ageing. The CGIC had significantly higher hardness but lower flexural strength than the RM‐GIC and RC.
Price transmission, asymmetric adjustment and threshold effects in the cotton supply chain: a case study for Vidarbha, India
Authors: Shrinivas Aditya , Gómez Miguel I.
Published: May 2016

This study examines price transmission asymmetries in Vidarbha's (India) cotton supply chain from 2002 to 2012. The analysis takes account of thresholds in price adjustments toward their long‐run equilibrium. The first stage considers the price dynamics between international and Indian domestic cotton prices. The second stage considers price transmission from domestic to farm gate cotton prices in Vidarbha. Results from the first stage indicate that Indian and international cotton markets are well‐integrated. In contrast, the second stage reveals significant threshold‐type nonlinearities as well as asymmetries in price transmission between domestic and farm gate prices. The short‐run dynamics suggest that the pass‐through from domestic to farm gate prices is larger when domestic prices decrease than when they increase. Moreover, back of the envelope calculations suggest that the loss in revenue for a typical farmer from a decrease in domestic price is larger than the gains from an increase in domestic price of the same magnitude. The implication is that traders benefit from price fluctuations at the expense of farmers. Evidence from fieldwork in Vidarbha suggest that asymmetries revealed in this analysis may be linked to trader's market power and inadequate market information among farmers.
The Effects of South Korean Social Workers' Professional Resources on their Understanding of a Patient's Right to End‐of‐Life Care Decisions in Long‐term Care Facilities
Authors: Han Sooyoun
Published: May 2016

The aims of this study were to examine South Korean social workers' understanding of a patient's right to end‐of‐life care decisions (EOLCD) in long‐term care facilities and to explore the effectiveness of their professional resources in their understanding of this issue. A survey was conducted of 297 social workers from multiple long‐term care facilities in South Korea using structured questionnaires and face‐to‐face interviews. A multiple regression model was used, controlling for gender and religion. The participants' professional resources were measured by years of work, license type, number of beds, knowledge of advanced directives, experience in the EOLCD process, and training. The results demonstrated that South Korean social workers' understanding of a patient's right to EOLCD was moderate (mean 3.46), and their general (β = 0.576, P < 0.001) and medical knowledge (β = 0.117, P < 0.001) of advance directives, experience in the EOLCD process (β = 0.222, P < 0.001), and training (β = 0.028, P < 0.001) positively and significantly increased their understanding of patient rights (R2 = 0.449, P < 0.001). The findings suggested that the development of academically supported and legally enforced standards and regulations for an EOLCD practice manual for long‐term‐care social workers would be beneficial.
Comparison between intraocular pressure spikes with water loading and postural change
Authors: Chong Calum WK , Wang Sarah B , Jain Neeranjali S , Bank Cassandra S , Singh Ravjit , Bank Allan , Francis Ian C , Agar Ashish
Published: May 2016

Background

To compare the agreement between peak intraocular pressures measured through the water drinking test and the supine test, in patients with primary open angle glaucoma.

Design

Consecutive, prospective, blinded.

Participants

Twenty‐one patients from the Glaucoma Unit, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, Australia.

Methods

For the supine test, intraocular pressure was recorded immediately after the patient had lain down and at 20 and 40 min. At the second evaluation, intraocular pressure was measured in each patient after drinking 10 mL/kg body weight of water for the water drinking test. Again, all patients had their intraocular pressure measured at 20 and 40 min (t = 20 and t = 40, respectively). Patients were excluded from the study if they had pre‐existing cardiac, renal or pulmonary complications or had concurrent ocular disease or an anatomical abnormality (including angle recession, peripheral anterior synechiae and developmental anomalies of the angle) that may have influenced intraocular pressure.

Main Outcome Measure

Bland–Altman analysis.

Results

Bland–Altman analysis indicated an overall excellent agreement in terms of mean difference between methods (1.0, −1.0 and −0.90 mmHg, at 0, 20 and 40 min, respectively). Further, with the exception of t = 40, all measured time points had 95% confidence intervals within 6.5 mmHg of their mean difference on the Bland–Altman plot.

Conclusions

There was close agreement between the intraocular pressure values of the supine test and water drinking test. However, as the water drinking test may be uncomfortable and potentially hazardous, there is potential that the supine test may be a safer and more comfortable alternative.
The value of a feasibility study into long‐term macrolide therapy in chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Bewick J. , Ahmed S. , Carrie S. , Hopkins C. , Sama A. , Sunkaraneni V. , Woods J. , Morris S. , Erskine S. , Philpott C.M.
Published: May 2016

Objectives

There is currently conflicting level 1 evidence in the use of long‐term antibiotics for chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyps. The primary aim of this feasibility study was to optimise future randomised trial design by assessing recruitment and retention of patients alongside providing preliminary data on symptomatic control.

Design

Prospective, multicentre feasibility (cohort) study with all patients receiving macrolide therapy for 12 weeks and a further subsequent 12‐week follow‐up. Participants received a 12‐week course of clarithromycin 250 mg alongside twice daily topical mometasone and nasal douching. Primary outcomes focused on recruitment, retention and compliance. Clinical and quality‐of‐life outcomes measures were also recorded.

Setting

Patients were prospectively recruited from six UK outpatient clinics.

Participants

Adult patients with chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyps and no prior endoscopic sinus surgery underwent baseline assessment and then follow‐up at 3 and 6 months.

Main outcome measures

Six‐month recruitment and retention data.

Results

Over 13 months, 55 adults were recruited from five centres. Four patients declined participation. 75% of patients were retained within the study. Dropouts included one medication contraindication, three unable to tolerate medication and 10 not attending full follow‐up. Sino Nasal Outcome Test‐22 and endoscopic scores showed statistically significant improvement. No other clinical or quality‐of‐life assessment improvements were seen.

Conclusion

Retention and recruitment to a trial using long‐term clarithromycin to treat chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyps is achievable and this data will support a future randomised controlled trial. The study provides vital insight into trial design, thus informing UK research networks and rhinology researchers internationally.
Risk factors and outcome of stroke in renal transplant recipients
Authors: Findlay Mark D. , Thomson Peter C. , MacIsaac Rachael , Jardine Alan G. , Patel Rajan K. , Stevens Kathryn K. , Rutherford Elaine , Clancy Marc , Geddes Colin C. , Dawson Jesse , Mark Patrick B.
Published: May 2016

Stroke incidence is high in end‐stage renal disease, and risk factors differ between the dialysis and general populations. However, risk factors and outcomes following renal transplantation remain unclear. We analyzed all adult patients with a functioning renal transplant from 01/01/2007 to 12/31/2012. Data were extracted from the electronic patient record. Variables associated with stroke were identified by survival analyses; demographic, clinical, and imaging and laboratory variables were assessed and case fatality determined. Follow‐up was until 05/12/2013. A total of 956 patients were identified (median age 40.1 years, 59.9% male). Atrial fibrillation (AF) prevalence was 9.2%, and 38.2% received a transplant during follow‐up. A total of 26 (2.7%) experienced a stroke during 4409 patient‐years of follow‐up (84.6% ischemic). Stroke incidence was 5.96/1000 patient‐years. Factors associated with stroke on regression analysis were prior stroke, diabetes, age, systolic hypertension, and hemoglobin. Atrial fibrillation was associated with time to stroke (P<0.001). Warfarin did not associate with ischemic stroke risk in those with AF. Fatality was 19.2% at 7, 23.1% at 28, and 42.3% at 365 days after stroke. Patients with a functioning renal transplant have a high stroke incidence and case fatality. Unlike those on hemodialysis, risk factors are similar to the general population. We did not demonstrate benefit from warfarin use in those with AF.
Routine ultrasonography surveillance of native kidneys for renal cell carcinoma in kidney transplant candidates
Authors: Klein Jeffrey A. , Gonzalez Stevan A. , Fischbach Bernard V. , Yango Angelito F. , Rajagopal Arthi , Rice Kim M. , Saim Muhammad , Barri Yousri M. , Melton Larry B. , Klintmalm Goran B. , Chandrakantan Arun
Published: May 2016

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) has a high incidence in the kidney transplant population and annual surveillance detects these tumors early in their natural history. Minimal guidelines exist regarding RCC surveillance in ESRD patients awaiting transplant. A retrospective review of our kidney transplant database examined the outcomes of annual ultrasonographic surveillance during initial kidney transplant evaluation and upon annual reassessment. Of 2642 patients listed for transplant, 145 patients were found to have masses during initial kidney transplant evaluation or annual imaging consistent with new complex cystic disease or RCC. A total of 71 patients had RCC identified, with 52 found on initial kidney transplant evaluation and 19 identified on annual surveillance. Male gender and African‐American race were independently associated with RCC (P<.05). RCC was detected a median of 2.0 years after listing (two annual ultrasonography studies). Patients with complex cysts were more likely to undergo transplantation (48.7%) compared to patients with RCC (21.1%; P<.001). There was no significant difference in survival between RCC patients and those found to have complex cystic disease, suggesting incidental RCC can be diagnosed early in the natural history and at a curable stage through implementation of a biennial surveillance program.
Patients with chronic kidney disease have abnormal upper gastro‐intestinal tract digestive function: A study of uremic enteropathy
Authors: Grant Claire J , Harrison Laura E , Hoad Caroline L , Marciani Luca , Gowland Penny A , McIntyre Christopher W
Published: May 2016

Background and Aim

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects gastrointestinal (GI) function and results in numerous adaptive and maladaptive responses. Disruption of the colonic microbiome and its attendant consequences—the loss of gut barrier integrity and increased generation of uremic toxins—has become well‐recognized. However, less attention has been paid to characterizing the mechanisms behind dysfunction of the upper GI tract, largely owing to the difficulty of studying small bowel function in vivo. This present study was designed to comprehensively describe upper GI function in those with advanced renal impairment.

Methods

Thirty‐five non‐diabetic subjects (12 CKD stage 4/5 patients, 23 healthy controls) underwent detailed GI magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in both fasted and fed states. Upper GI function was assessed by quantification of gastric emptying and intra‐luminal small bowel water. Characterization of hydration and cardiovascular status was performed at baseline. Gut barrier integrity was assessed using serum endotoxin level.

Results

Chronic kidney disease was associated with dysmotility (gastric half‐emptying time 96 ± 32 vs 74 ± 27 min, P = 0.04) and reduced fasting and post‐prandial small bowel water (36 ± 22 mL vs 78 ± 42 mL, P < 0.001), reflecting abnormal digestive secretion, and absorption. This was related to the degree of endotoxemia (r = −0.60, P = 0.04) and poorer symptom scores, but not to disease severity, arterial stiffness or hydration status.

Conclusion

Chronic kidney disease adversely affects digestive function. Abnormalities in digestive secretion and absorption may potentially have a broad impact in the prevention and treatment of both CKD and its complications. Further study is required to assess the factors that contribute to this dysfunction in a wider CKD population.
Efficacy of nonswallow nasogastric tube intubation: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Fan Luo , Liu Qin , Gui Li
Published: May 2016

Aims and objectives

To prospectively identify the effect of the nonswallow procedure of nasogastric tube insertion.

Background

Nasogastric intubation is one of the most important and basic skills in treatment and nursing. Patients generally experience discomfort and encounter complications during this procedure. Thus, practitioners need a more convenient, effective, quicker and safer method to improve the performance of this procedure.

Design

This prospective randomised controlled trial was conducted from March to May 2014 in the four units of Gansun Province Hospital in Lanzhou, China.

Method

A total of 80 participants were randomly assigned to an experimental group (n = 40) and a control group (n = 40). Participants in the experimental group underwent a nonswallow procedure for nasogastric tube insertion.

Results

There were statistically significant differences in nasogastric tube insertion between the study groups. A marked increase in the success rate at first intubation as well as a markedly reduced occurrence of nausea, tearing, mucosal injury and changes in vital signs (i.e. heart rate, breath, systolic pressure) were observed compared with the control group. No differences in the success rates at second and third intubation were observed between the groups.

Conclusions

The nonswallow procedure of nasogastric tube intubation relieves discomfort and ensures the safety of patients.

Relevance to clinical practice

Patients subjected to nasogastric intubation are more likely to benefit from the nonswallow procedure when nasogastric tube insertion is performed.
The changing epidemiology and aetiology of hepatocellular carcinoma from 1969 through 2013 in Alaska Native people
Authors: Connelly Marc , Bruce Michael G. , Bulkow Lisa , Snowball Mary , McMahon Brian J.
Published: May 2016

Background & Aims

Alaska Native people have an increased rate of hepatocellular carcinoma compared to the United States population. Viral hepatitis is a risk factor for malignancy and the leading cause of hepatocellular carcinoma in Alaska. With the introduction of hepatitis B immunization in 1982, as well as the emergence of hepatitis C virus in this population, the epidemiology and aetiology of hepatocellular carcinoma in Alaska have changed.

Methods

Using the Alaska Native Tumor Registry, all cases of viral and non‐viral hepatocellular carcinoma occurring from 1969 through 2013 were identified and reviewed. Incidence rates per 100 000 population were calculated for hepatocellular carcinoma overall and by aetiological category.

Results

One hundred and fifty‐two cases of hepatocellular carcinoma were identified in 148 Alaska Native persons. Overall tumour rate was 3.82 per 100 000 and did not change significantly over the study period. Hepatitis B‐associated cases decreased significantly over the study period (P = 0.048) and were eliminated in persons under the age of 20. Hepatitis C‐associated cases increased significantly (P < 0.001). Undetermined hepatocellular carcinoma rates also decreased (P = 0.034).

Conclusions

Overall hepatocellular carcinoma rates in Alaska Native people remained stable over the study period, but the epidemiology and aetiology are changing. Two decades after routine hepatitis B immunization, the hepatocellular carcinoma age distribution has shifted to cases presenting later in life. This is consistent with an ageing hepatitis B‐infected population with no new infected young persons' coming into the population, as well as the emergence of hepatitis C in adults.
AN INDICATOR FOR ECOSYSTEM EXTERNALITIES IN FISHING
Authors: RAVN‐JONSEN LARS , ANDERSEN KEN H. , VESTERGAARD NIELS
Published: May 2016

Ecosystem externalities arise when one use of an ecosystem affects its other uses through the production functions of the ecosystem. We use simulations with a size‐spectrum ecosystem model to investigate the ecosystem externality created by fishing of multiple species. The model is based upon general ecological principles and is calibrated to the North Sea. Two fleets are considered: a “forage fish” fleet targeting species that mature at small sizes and a “large fish” fleet targeting large piscivorous species. Based on the marginal analysis of the present value of the rent, we develop a benefit indicator that explicitly divides the consequences of fishing into internal and external benefits. This analysis demonstrates that the forage fish fleet has a notable economic impact on the large fish fleet, but the reverse is not true. The impact can be either negative or positive, which entails that for optimal economic exploitation, the forage fishery has to be adjusted according to the large fish fishery. With the present large fish fishery in the North Sea, the two fisheries are well adjusted; however, the present combined exploitation level is too high to achieve optimal economic rents.
Idiopathic Premature Ventricular Contraction Conducting over a Ventricle Myocardial Extension from the Pulmonary Artery
Authors: YAMASAKI HIRO , BERTAGNOLLI LIVIO , HINDRICKS GERHARD , ARYA ARASH
Published: May 2016

Ventricle myocardial extensions (VMEs) from the right ventricular outflow tract to the pulmonary artery (PA) serve as arrhythmogenic foci for idiopathic ventricular arrhythmias (VAs). Although an autopsy study revealed the heterogeneity of the VME, only the electrocardiographic features of PA‐VAs arising from septal VMEs have been discussed. Here, we describe a case of idiopathic PA‐VAs conducting over a VME accompanied by unique ventricle activation patterns, which contributed to the appearance of an S wave in the inferior limb leads despite an arrythmogenic focus in the outflow tract.
Development of a Novel Covalent Folate‐Albumin‐Photosensitizer Conjugate
Authors: Beaudoin Simon , Leyton Jeffrey V.
Published: May 2016

There is considerable interest in the development of novel and more efficient delivery systems for improving the efficacy of photodynamic therapy (PDT). The authors in this highlighted issue describe the synthesis and the photobiological characterizations of two photosensitizer (PS) conjugates based on β‐carboline derivatives covalently conjugated to folic acid (FA) coupled to bovine serum albumin (BSA) as a carrier system specifically targeting cancer cells overexpressing FA receptor alpha (FRα). Accordingly, only the FA–BSA–β‐carboline conjugates are internalized specifically in FRα‐positive cells and are proved to be phototoxic. On the other hand, albumin–β‐carboline conjugates without FA or β‐carboline derivatives alone are not internalized and nontoxic. This conjugate is among the first to produce a conjugate composed of a PS and FA molecules that are directly conjugated to BSA. In addition, the in vitro studies are the first evidence that directly conjugated FA‐BSA can be used as carriers to selectively enhance cytotoxicity by PDT relative to unmodified PS or nontargeted BSA‐PS. This strategy is a positive step forward for the covalent design and construction of a photodynamic nanomedicine for FR‐positive tumors.
Enriching the Curriculum with Pennsylvania German
Authors: Meindl Joerg
Published: May 2016

The German classroom should prepare students for the linguistic diversity of the target culture, including regional varieties and German spoken outside of the D‐A‐CH region. Because textbooks do not often include materials on regional varieties, this article presents a model to incorporate Pennsylvania German (PG) into the curriculum. The model does not aim on learning PG but employs PG to support the acquisition of Standard German and the development of language awareness. Furthermore, PG can be used as a basis for lessons on culture, critical thinking, and intercultural competence. Teachers can implement the model without PG experts or adding large amounts of content to the classroom. The article presents basic knowledge about PG, its speakers, and their cultural context, as well as information on easily accessible PG texts and dictionaries. Furthermore, the article outlines learning goals and provides suggestions for lessons. An appendix lists readily available resources for more information on Pennsylvania German culture.
Filmische Stereotype im interkulturellen Landeskundeunterricht: Theorie und Praxis
Authors: Coleman Nicole
Published: May 2016

Stereotype als generalisierende Zuordnung von Individuen zu bestimmten Gruppen werden in Filmen verwendet, um dem Publikum eine schnelle Identifizierung der Rollen zu ermöglichen. Während oft der negative Charakter von Stereotypen betont wird, argumentiere ich im vorliegenden Beitrag, dass sich Stereotype produktiv für die Ausbildung interkultureller Kompetenz nutzen lassen. Die drei untersuchten Filme, Eurotrip, Kebab Connection sowie Almanya, kodieren Stereotype in unterschiedlicher Weise und lassen sich in den Landeskundeunterricht einbinden. Filme bieten sich in einem interkulturell orientierten Landeskundeunterricht vor allem deshalb an, weil sie neben den erwünschten historischen, politischen und kulturellen Fakten auch die menschliche und alltägliche Seite präsentieren und eine Identifikation ermöglichen. Die im letzten Teil dieses Beitrags entwickelte Unterrichtseinheit wird in diesem Sinne Stereotype hinterfragen und dekonstruieren, Reflexivität fördern und konkrete landeskundliche Informationen vermitteln.
Casting a University‐wide Net: Teaching Sustainability in Germany
Authors: Ducate Lara
Published: May 2016

Due to the connection between Germany and sustainability studies, German Programs are well poised to offer a course on German history, culture, and sustainability to meet the needs of the next generation of students. Interdisciplinary humanities courses that incorporate critical thinking, problem solving, and collaborative learning will help to prepare students for their future careers and form thoughtful leaders of tomorrow who will be engaged in their communities and the environment. This article describes a German sustainability course taught in English that incorporates teaching strategies and goals of the liberal arts, while attracting students from a variety of majors and schools across campus. Examples demonstrate that the course discussions, weekly blog posts, exams, and final projects encouraged students to integrate ideas from a variety of disciplines and engage in critical thinking to support well‐researched opinions regarding sustainability while also considering their role in their communities with an eye on sustainability.
Current topics in red cell biology: report on the Red Cell Special Interest Group meeting held at NHS Blood and Transplant Bristol on 30 October 2015
Authors: Bullock T. , Bruce L. J. , Ridgwell K.
Published: May 2016

The Red Cell Special Interest Group (SIG) meeting, hosted by the British Blood Transfusion Society, provides an annual forum for the presentation of UK‐ and European‐based red cell research. The 2015 meeting was held on Friday 30 October at the National Health Service Blood & Transplant (NHSBT) facility in Filton, Bristol and provided an exciting and varied programme on the themes of erythropoiesis, malaria biology and pathophysiology and red cells properties in stress and disease. Ten speakers presented on these topics over the course of one day. The meeting was well attended by over 90 delegates. Posters were presented during the lunch break, and abstracts from the posters are published at the end of this issue.
A Computational Model for Surface Welding in Covalent Adaptable Networks Using Finite-Element Analysis
Authors: Yu Kai , Shi Qian , Wang Tiejun , Dunn Martin L. , Jerry Qi H.
Published: May 2016

Covalent adaptable network (CAN) polymers can rearrange their macromolecular network by bond exchange reactions (BERs), where an active unit attaches to and then replaces a unit in an existing bond and forms a new bond. When such macromolecular events occur on the interface, they can contribute to surface welding, self-healing, and recycling of thermosetting polymers. In this paper, we study the interfacial welding and failure of CANs involving both interfacial normal and shear stresses. To do this, we incorporate our recently developed multiscale model for surface welding of CANs with a cohesive zone modeling approach in finite-element method (FEM) simulation. The developed FEM paradigm involves a multiscale model predicting the interfacial chain density and fracture energy, which are transferred to a cohesive zone model to establish the surface traction-separation law. The simulations show good agreement with experimental results on the modulus and strength of welded samples. They also provide understanding of the interactions between surface welding and material malleability in determining the final mechanical properties of polymer structures. The developed FEM model can be applied to study other complex welding problems, such as polymer reprocessing with nonregular particle size and shape.
Silver Nanoparticle Formation on Metal Substrate Under Concentration-Limited Condition
Authors: Gan Yong X. , Tavares Gustavo R. , Gonzaga Rafhael S. , Gan Ryan N.
Published: May 2016

Silver nanoparticles were electrodeposited from 0.3 M oxalic acid electrolyte on a pure aluminum working electrode under silver ion concentration-limited condition. A silver wire was held in a glass tube containing 1.0 M KCl solution as the counter electrode. Ion exchange between the glass tube and the main electrodeposition bath through a capillary was driven by the overpotentials as high as 10 V supplied by an electrochemical workstation. Due to the reaction between chlorine anion and silver cation to form AgCl solid at the Ag/AgCl electrode, the silver ion concentration-limited condition holds in the electrolyte. It is found that silver grows at the aluminum working electrode to form nanoparticles with an average size of about 52.4 ± 13.6 nm. With the increasing of the deposition time, the silver nanoparticles aggregate into clusters. The silver particle clusters are separated with approximately 112.6 ± 19.7 nm due to the hydrogen bubble-induced self-assembling, which is shown by the confined deposition of silver on a gold coating. The surface roughness of the aluminum substrate leads to the reduced uniformity of silver nanoparticle nucleation and growth.
Deletion of
nuoG
from the Vaccine Candidate Mycobacterium bovis BCG Δ
ureC
::
hly
Improves Protection against Tuberculosis
Authors: Gengenbacher Martin , Nieuwenhuizen Natalie , Vogelzang Alexis , Liu Haipeng , Kaiser Peggy , Schuerer Stefanie , Lazar Doris , Wagner Ina , Mollenkopf Hans-Joachim , Kaufmann Stefan H. E.
Published: May 2016

The current tuberculosis (TB) vaccine,
Mycobacterium bovis
Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG), provides insufficient protection against pulmonary TB. Previously, we generated a listeriolysin-expressing recombinant BCG strain, which to date has successfully completed phase I and phase IIa clinical trials. In an attempt to further improve efficacy, we deleted the antiapoptotic virulence gene
nuoG
, encoding NADH dehydrogenase 1 subunit G, from BCG Δ
ureC
::
hly
.
In vitro
, deletion of
nuoG
unexpectedly led to strongly increased recruitment of the autophagosome marker LC3 to the engulfed vaccine, suggesting that
nuoG
also affects xenophagic pathways. In mice, BCG Δ
ureC
::
hly
Δ
nuoG
vaccination was safer than BCG and improved protection over that of parental BCG Δ
ureC
::
hly
, significantly reducing TB load in murine lungs, ameliorating pulmonary pathology, and enhancing immune responses. Transcriptome analysis of draining lymph nodes after vaccination with either BCG Δ
ureC
::
hly
or BCG Δ
ureC
::
hly
Δ
nuoG
demonstrated earlier and stronger induction of immune responses than that with BCG SSI and suggested upregulation of inflammasome activation and interferon-induced GTPases. In summary, BCG Δ
ureC
::
hly
Δ
nuoG
is a promising next-generation TB vaccine candidate with excellent efficacy and safety.

IMPORTANCE
Autophagy and apoptosis are fundamental processes allowing cells to degrade their components or kill themselves, respectively. The immune system has adopted these mechanisms to eliminate intracellular pathogens. Residing in host cells, the causative agent of tuberculosis,
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
, has evolved strategies to set cellular programs of autophagy and apoptosis “on hold.” The mycobacterial gene
nuoG
was found to prevent host cell apoptosis. We have deleted
nuoG
in the live vaccine candidate BCG Δ
ureC
::
hly
, which is in phase II clinical development, to leave cellular apoptosis “on go” upon immunization. In preclinical models, this strategy boosted immunity and improved protection from
M. tuberculosis
infection. Unexpectedly, we obtained compelling evidence that mycobacterial
nuoG
facilitates inhibition of autophagic pathways, suggesting a new role for this gene in the host-pathogen interplay in tuberculosis.
Quantum-chemical study of nitrogen and magnesium co-doping in α-Cr2O3
Authors: Jácome Soraya , Stashans Arvids
Published: May 2016

Study of corundum-type chromium oxide ([Formula: see text]-Cr2O3) crystal doped with the nitrogen and magnesium impurities has been carried out through the use of first-principles calculations based on the density functional theory (DFT) and generalized gradient approximation (GGA). Three cases corresponding different impurity–impurity distances have been considered. Structural, electronic and magnetic properties have been studied for all co-doping cases. The [Formula: see text]-type electrical conductivity was found when distance between the Mg and N atoms is equal to 4.10 Å. The results obtained are consistent with the available experimental data.
Entanglement of spin coherent mixed states
Authors: Mansour Mostafa , Hassouni Yassine
Published: May 2016

In this paper, we quantify the amount of entanglement of bipartite mixed states represented by a statistical mixture of the more general type of two-qubit non-orthogonal states of the form: [Formula: see text], constructed by linearly independent spin coherent states. We use the concurrence as a measure of entanglement and we study its behavior in terms of the amplitudes of SU(2) coherent states.
Comparison on the Horizontal Behaviors of Lattice-Shaped Diaphragm Wall and Pile Group under Static and Seismic Loads
Authors: Wu Jiu-jiang , Cheng Qian-gong , Wen Hua , Li Yan , Zhang Jian-lei , Wang Ling-juan
Published: May 2016

Lattice-shaped diaphragm wall (hereafter referring to LSDW) is a new type of bridge foundation, and the relevant investigation on its horizontal behaviors is scant. This paper is devoted to the numerical study of the comparison on the static and seismic responses of LSDW and pile group under similar material quantity in soft soil. It can be found that the horizontal bearing capacity of LSDW is considerably larger than that of pile group, and the deformation pattern of LSDW basically appears to be an overall toppling while pile group clearly shows a local bending deformation pattern during the static loading process. The acceleration response and the acceleration amplification effects of LSDW are slightly greater than that of pile group due to the existing of soil core and the difference on the ability of energy dissipation. The horizontal displacement response of pile group is close to that of LSDW at first and becomes stronger than that of LSDW due to the generation of plastic soil deformation near the pile-soil interface at last. The pile body may be broken in larger potential than LSDW especially when its horizontal displacement is notable. Compared with pile group, LSDW can be a good option for being served as a lateral bearing or an earthquake-proof foundation in soft soil.
On Stability of Vector Nonlinear Integrodifferential Equations
Authors: Gil’ Michael
Published: May 2016

Let Ω be a bounded domain in a real Euclidean space. We consider the equation ∂u(t,x)/∂t=C(x)u(t,x)+∫ΩK(x,s)u(t,s)ds+[F(u)](t,x)  (t>0;  x∈Ω), where C(·) and K(·,·) are matrix-valued functions and F(·) is a nonlinear mapping. Conditions for the exponential stability of the steady state are established. Our approach is based on a norm estimate for operator commutators.
The Role of Oxidative Stress in Myocardial Ischemia and Reperfusion Injury and Remodeling: Revisited
Authors: Kurian Gino A. , Rajagopal Rashmi , Vedantham Srinivasan , Rajesh Mohanraj
Published: May 2016

Oxidative and reductive stress are dual dynamic phases experienced by the cells undergoing adaptation towards endogenous or exogenous noxious stimulus. The former arises due to the imbalance between the reactive oxygen species production and antioxidant defenses, while the latter is due to the aberrant increase in the reducing equivalents. Mitochondrial malfunction is the common denominator arising from the aberrant functioning of the rheostat that maintains the homeostasis between oxidative and reductive stress. Recent experimental evidences suggest that the maladaptation during oxidative stress could play a pivotal role in the pathophysiology of major cardiovascular diseases such as myocardial infraction, atherosclerosis, and diabetic cardiovascular complications. In this review we have discussed the role of oxidative and reductive stress pathways in the pathogenesis of myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury and diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM). Furthermore, we have provided impetus for the development of subcellular organelle targeted antioxidant drug therapy for thwarting the deterioration of the failing myocardium in the aforementioned cardiovascular conditions.
Exergy and Exergoenvironmental Analysis of a CCHP System Based on a Parallel Flow Double-Effect Absorption Chiller
Authors: Mousafarash Ali
Published: May 2016

A combined cooling, heating, and power (CCHP) system which produces electricity, heating, and cooling is modeled and analyzed. This system is comprised of a gas turbine, a heat recovery steam generator, and a double-effect absorption chiller. Exergy analysis is conducted to address the magnitude and the location of irreversibilities. In order to enhance understanding, a comprehensive parametric study is performed to see the effect of some major design parameters on the system performance. These design parameters are compressor pressure ratio, gas turbine inlet temperature, gas turbine isentropic efficiency, compressor isentropic efficiency, and temperature of absorption chiller generator inlet. The results show that exergy efficiency of the CCHP system is higher than the power generation system and the cogeneration system. In addition, the results indicate that when waste heat is utilized in the heat recovery steam generator, the greenhouse gasses are reduced when the fixed power output is generated. According to the parametric study results, an increase in compressor pressure ratio shows that the network output first increases and then decreases. Furthermore, an increase in gas turbine inlet temperature increases the system exergy efficiency, decreasing the total exergy destruction rate consequently.
Anatomical Variations of Cystic Ducts in Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography and Clinical Implications
Authors: Sarawagi Radha , Sundar Shyam , Gupta Sanjeev K. , Raghuwanshi Sameer
Published: May 2016

Background. Anatomical variations of cystic duct (CD) are frequently unrecognized. It is important to be aware of these variations prior to any surgical, percutaneous, or endoscopic intervention procedures.Objectives. The purpose of our study was to demonstrate the imaging features of CD and its variants using magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) and document their prevalence in our population.Materials and Methods. This study included 198 patients who underwent MRCP due to different indications. Images were evaluated in picture archiving communication system (PACS) and variations of CD were documented.Results. Normal lateral insertion of CD at middle third of common hepatic duct was seen in 51% of cases. Medial insertion was seen in 16% of cases, of which 4% were low medial insertions. Low insertion of CD was noted in 9% of cases. Parallel course of CD was present in 7.5% of cases. High insertion was noted in 6% and short CD in 1% of cases. In 1 case, CD was draining into right hepatic duct. Congenital cystic dilation of CD was noted in one case with evidence of type IV choledochal cyst.Conclusion. Cystic duct variations are common and MRCP is an optimal imaging modality for demonstration of cystic duct anatomy.
The Association of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with Cerebral Gray Matter Volume Is Independent of Retinal Vascular Architecture and Retinopathy
Authors: Moran C. , Tapp R. J. , Hughes A. D. , Magnussen C. G. , Blizzard L. , Phan T. G. , Beare R. , Witt N. , Venn A. , Münch G. , Amaratunge B. C. , Srikanth V.
Published: May 2016

It is uncertain whether small vessel disease underlies the relationship between Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) and brain atrophy. We aimed to study whether retinal vascular architecture, as a proxy for cerebral small vessel disease, may modify or mediate the associations of T2DM with brain volumes. In this cross-sectional study using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans and retinal photographs in 451 people with and without T2DM, we measured brain volumes, geometric measures of retinal vascular architecture, clinical retinopathy, and MRI cerebrovascular lesions. There were 270 people with (mean age 67.3 years) and 181 without T2DM (mean age 72.9 years). T2DM was associated with lower gray matter volume (p=0.008). T2DM was associated with greater arteriolar diameter (p=0.03) and optimality ratio (p=0.04), but these associations were attenuated by adjustments for age and sex. Only optimality ratio was associated with lower gray matter volume (p=0.03). The inclusion of retinal measures in regression models did not attenuate the association of T2DM with gray matter volume. The association of T2DM with lower gray matter volume was independent of retinal vascular architecture and clinical retinopathy. Retinal vascular measures or retinopathy may not be sufficiently sensitive to confirm a microvascular basis for T2DM-related brain atrophy.
An Automatic Cognitive Graph-Based Segmentation for Detection of Blood Vessels in Retinal Images
Authors: Al Shehhi Rasha , Marpu Prashanth Reddy , Woon Wei Lee
Published: May 2016

This paper presents a hierarchical graph-based segmentation for blood vessel detection in digital retinal images. This segmentation employs some of perceptual Gestalt principles: similarity, closure, continuity, and proximity to merge segments into coherent connected vessel-like patterns. The integration of Gestalt principles is based on object-based features (e.g., color and black top-hat (BTH) morphology and context) and graph-analysis algorithms (e.g., Dijkstra path). The segmentation framework consists of two main steps: preprocessing and multiscale graph-based segmentation. Preprocessing is to enhance lighting condition, due to low illumination contrast, and to construct necessary features to enhance vessel structure due to sensitivity of vessel patterns to multiscale/multiorientation structure. Graph-based segmentation is to decrease computational processing required for region of interest into most semantic objects. The segmentation was evaluated on three publicly available datasets. Experimental results show that preprocessing stage achieves better results compared to state-of-the-art enhancement methods. The performance of the proposed graph-based segmentation is found to be consistent and comparable to other existing methods, with improved capability of detecting small/thin vessels.
G2385R and I2020T Mutations Increase LRRK2 GTPase Activity
Authors: Ho Dong Hwan , Jang Jihoon , Joe Eun-hye , Son Ilhong , Seo Hyemyung , Seol Wongi
Published: May 2016

The LRRK2 mutation is a major causal mutation in familial Parkinson’s disease. Although LRRK2 contains functional GTPase and kinase domains and their activities are altered by pathogenic mutations, most studies focused on LRRK2 kinase activity because the most prevalent mutant, G2019S, enhances kinase activity. However, the G2019S mutation is extremely rare in the Asian population. Instead, the G2385R mutation was reported as a major risk factor in the Asian population. Similar to other LRRK2 studies, G2385R studies have also focused on kinase activity. Here, we investigated GTPase activities of G2385R with other LRRK2 mutants, such as G2019S, R1441C, and I2020T, as well as wild type (WT). Our results suggest that both I2020T and G2385R contain GTPase activities stronger than that of WT. A kinase assay using the commercial recombinant proteins showed that I2020T harbored stronger activity, whereas G2385R had weaker activity than that of WT, as reported previously. This is the first report of LRRK2 I2020T and G2385R GTPase activities and shows that most of the LRRK2 mutations that are pathogenic or a risk factor altered either kinase or GTPase activity, suggesting that their physiological consequences are caused by altered enzyme activities.
Single-Cell Sequencing Technology in Oncology: Applications for Clinical Therapies and Research
Authors: Ye Baixin , Gao Qingping , Zeng Zhi , Stary Creed M. , Jian Zhihong , Xiong Xiaoxing , Gu Lijuan
Published: May 2016

Cellular heterogeneity is a fundamental characteristic of many cancers. A lack of cellular homogeneity contributes to difficulty in designing targeted oncological therapies. Therefore, the development of novel methods to determine and characterize oncologic cellular heterogeneity is a critical next step in the development of novel cancer therapies. Single-cell sequencing (SCS) technology has been recently employed for analyzing the genetic polymorphisms of individual cells at the genome-wide level. SCS requires (1) precise isolation of the single cell of interest; (2) isolation and amplification of genetic material; and (3) descriptive analysis of genomic, transcriptomic, and epigenomic data. In addition to targeted analysis of single cells isolated from tumor biopsies, SCS technology may be applied to circulating tumor cells, which may aid in predicting tumor progression and metastasis. In this paper, we provide an overview of SCS technology and review the current literature on the potential application of SCS to clinical oncology and research.
Focal Adhesion Kinase Regulates the DNA Damage Response and Its Inhibition Radiosensitizes Mutant KRAS Lung Cancer
Authors: Tang Ke-Jing , Constanzo Jerfiz D. , Venkateswaran Niranjan , Melegari Margherita , Ilcheva Mariya , Morales Julio C. , Skoulidis Ferdinandos , Heymach John V. , Boothman David A. , Scaglioni Pier Paolo
Published: May 2016

Purpose: Non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide due to the limited availability of effective therapeutic options. For instance, there are no effective strategies for NSCLCs that harbor mutant KRAS, the most commonly mutated oncogene in NSCLC. Thus, our purpose was to make progress toward the generation of a novel therapeutic strategy for NSCLC.

Experimental Design: We characterized the effects of suppressing focal adhesion kinase (FAK) by RNA interference (RNAi), CRISPR/CAS9 gene editing or pharmacologic approaches in NSCLC cells and in tumor xenografts. In addition, we tested the effects of suppressing FAK in association with ionizing radiation (IR), a standard-of-care treatment modality.

Results: FAK is a critical requirement of mutant KRAS NSCLC cells. With functional experiments, we also found that, in mutant KRAS NSCLC cells, FAK inhibition resulted in persistent DNA damage and susceptibility to exposure to IR. Accordingly, administration of IR to FAK-null tumor xenografts causes a profound antitumor effect in vivo.

Conclusions: FAK is a novel regulator of DNA damage repair in mutant KRAS NSCLC and its pharmacologic inhibition leads to radiosensitizing effects that could be beneficial in cancer therapy. Our results provide a framework for the rationale clinical testing of FAK inhibitors in NSCLC patients. Clin Cancer Res; 22(23); 5851–63. ©2016 AACR.