bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tele‐analysis: the use of media technology in psychotherapy and its impact on the therapeutic relationship
Authors: Roesler Christian
Published: May 2017

A growing number of approaches in psychotherapy make use of internet‐ and other media‐based interactions. This paper discusses the impact on the therapist‐client relationship of using media technology and gives an overview of the current state of the debate. It is suggested that the technical conditions of internet‐based interactions produce new forms of social relationships that differ significantly from face‐to‐face‐interactions and that unconscious, nonverbal cues get lost. Research on the therapeutic interaction making use of ‘discourse linguistic’ methods is presented.

The loss of nonverbal cues has implications for psychotherapy in general and especially for the treatment of patients who have difficulties relying on a secure therapeutic relationship. Emotional security in interactional relationships is transmitted to a much greater extent by nonverbal cues than by verbal content; psychoanalytic methods are specialized to refer to this level of interaction. Two alternative scenarios are discussed based on the psychoanalytic theories of Winnicott and Lacan: the risk of an illusionary, idealized image of the other and the possibility that cyberspace can be used for psychological development as a transitional space.
Demographic histories of three predatory lady beetles reveal complex patterns of diversity and population size change in the United States
Authors: Sethuraman Arun , Janzen Fredric J. , Rubio Michael A. , Vasquez Yumary , Obrycki John J.
Published: May 2017

Predatory lady beetles (Coccinellidae) contribute to biological control of agricultural pests, however, multiple species frequently compete for similar resources in the same environment. Numerous studies have examined ecological interactions among the native North American convergent lady beetle (Hippodamia convergens) and two introduced species, the seven‐spotted lady beetle (Coccinella septempunctata) and the Asian lady beetle (Harmonia axyridis), in agricultural fields and described multiyear population dynamics. However, the evolutionary dynamics of these interacting species of predatory beetles are uncharacterized. We utilize publicly available multilocus genotype data from geographically disjunct populations of these three species to estimate demography across North American populations. Coalescent analyses reveal (1) a recent (∼4–5 years) decline (>12 fold) in microsatellite effective population size of H. convergens, while expanding (mutation scaled growth rate in 1/u generations = 2910, SD = 362) over evolutionary time scales, (2) a massive (>150 fold), and very recent, effective population size decline in Ha. axyridis, and (3) population size growth (mutation scaled growth rate = 997, SD = 60) over recent and evolutionary time scales in C. septempunctata. Although these estimates are based on genetic data with different mutation rates and patterns of inheritance (mitochondrial versus nuclear), these dynamic and differing population size histories are striking. Further studies of the interactions of these predatory lady beetles in the field are thus warranted to explore the consequences of population size change and biological control activities for evolutionary trajectories in North America.
On which targets should we compromise in conservation prioritization problems?
Authors: Kaim Andrea , Watts Matthew E. , Possingham Hugh P.
Published: May 2017

Systematic conservation planning is an essential part of biodiversity preservation. In the context of conservation prioritization problems, the total cost of the entire reserve system is highly dependent on how big we set targets (e.g. 10% or 30%) for conservation features (e.g. species or habitats). Thus, it is of interest to conservation planners how targets could be adjusted in a reasonable way, in order to decrease total cost. The aim of this paper is to rank features based on their influence on total cost.

Focusing on the minimum set coverage problem—an integer linear optimization problem (ILP)—we developed a method to rank features according to their influence on total cost. Since the computation time is often too high to solve the ILP, we approximated its optimal solutions by the results of a linear optimization problem (LP). For the feature ranking, we used the shadow prices of the LP, validating it with rankings created by methods which used an ILP solver and the software Marxan, which uses a simulated annealing algorithm.

The results show that shadow prices can be used to rank features in terms of their impact on the total cost of the reserve system thereby identifying those feature targets that could yield better compromises.

Thus, the shadow price ranking provides a novel tool for conservation planners to help set feature targets in conservation prioritization problems. Furthermore, the results of the study can be used to improve Marxan.
Editorial: is it time for therapeutic drug monitoring of anti‐TNF agents during pregnancy? Maybe, maybe not
Authors: Kane S.
Published: May 2017

Linked Content

This article is linked to Seow et al and Seow papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14040 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14093.
Editorial: evidence is growing for protective effects of 5‐aminosalicylates against colitis‐associated cancer—authors’ reply
Authors: Bonovas S. , Fiorino G. , Lytras T. , Nikolopoulos G. , Peyrin‐Biroulet L. , Danese S.
Published: May 2017

Linked Content

This article is linked to Bonovas et al papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14023 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14072.
Editorial: is it time for therapeutic drug monitoring of anti‐TNF agents during pregnancy? Maybe, maybe not. Author's reply
Authors: Seow C. H.
Published: May 2017

Linked Content

This article is linked to Seow et al and Kane papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14040 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14073.
Material “becomings” and a historical geography of religious experience: Metropolitan Methodism, 1851–1932
Authors: Slatter (née Mason) Ruth
Published: May 2017

Using Wesleyan Methodism in London between 1851 and 1932 as its case study, this paper explores the potential methods and outcomes of studying religious spaces as material items. Interested in both the “becoming” of their physical material properties and social meanings, this paper considers how geographical research can engage with debates within material culture studies about the relative importance and consequences of analysing the material qualities or social meanings of material items. This paper also responds to geographical and historical approaches to religious practices that are increasingly interested in individuals’ everyday experiences of religion, suggesting that studying the becoming nature of religious space can provide insights into historical congregational experiences. Finally, reflecting on the inevitable gaps and inconsistencies in historical archives, this paper assesses the methodological possibilities and viability of using material sources and analysis in historical geography.
Diversity‐related employee attitudes and perceptions in Bangladesh: A case study on the Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee
Authors: Cho Sangmi , Sultana Razia
Published: May 2017

Bangladesh is perceived as homogenous, often resulting in hidden discrimination for those considered to belong to minority groups. Little research has been conducted on the characteristics of diversity as predictors of work attitude and behavior in relation to organizational commitment and job performance in Bangladesh. This study examines conditions in a leading international, non‐governmental development organization, the Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee (BRAC). The purpose of this study is to explore employees' perceptions and work attitudes and how these relate to organizational commitment and job performance. A phenomenological research strategy was used to understand the unique culture of Bangladesh and workplace diversity at BRAC. Data was collected through in‐depth interviews with BRAC employees currently working in the head office, using a purposive, convenient sampling method. Both positive and negative feelings and perceptions were revealed: positive factors include gender sensitivity in the workplace, positive organizational support, organizational goodwill, organizational culture, and longer tenure and seniority; negative factors include job insecurity, dissatisfaction with salary grades and gaps, promotions, and issues pertaining to disabilities, ethnicity, and supervisors' evaluations. These results have implications for organizational and governmental policy.
The Adequacy of Pre‐purchase Due Diligence in Independent Small Business and Franchising
Authors: Buchan Jenny , Frazer Lorelle , Weaven Scott , Tran‐Nam Binh , Grace Anthony
Published: May 2017

This research reports an in‐depth study of the due diligence activities that prospective independent small business operators and franchisees in Australia undertake prior to purchasing or starting up their businesses. Although academic literature and industry publications promote undertaking ‘proper due diligence’, there is a lack of empirical research into the nature of due diligence and its effect on business outcomes. Using a qualitative approach, 60 currently and formerly operating independents and franchisees were personally interviewed, exploring the diversity of approaches to undertaking due diligence prior to entering business. The research revealed that differences occur in both the type and amount of due diligence undertaken by independents and franchisees and highlighted further differences between current and former operators. In general, the due diligence undertaken by participants was relatively unsophisticated with few exceptions of rigour and planning. Where prospective independents and franchisees were entering business for the first time, their appreciation of business was naïve. A steep learning curve followed during which they often recognised flaws in their initial research. As a result of this qualitative in‐depth research, we present a set of propositions regarding due diligence and a model for future testing on a large sample.
Assessment of effect of CYP3A inhibition, CYP induction, OATP1B inhibition, and high‐fat meal on pharmacokinetics of the JAK1 inhibitor upadacitinib
Authors: Mohamed Mohamed‐Eslam F. , Jungerwirth Steven , Asatryan Armen , Jiang Ping , Othman Ahmed A.
Published: May 2017

Aims

Upadacitinib (ABT‐494) is a selective Janus kinase 1 inhibitor being developed for treatment of auto‐immune inflammatory disorders. This work evaluated effects of high‐fat meal, cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A inhibition, CYP induction, and organic anion transporting polypeptide (OATP) 1B inhibition on upadacitinib pharmacokinetics.

Methods

Two Phase 1 evaluations were conducted, each in 12 healthy subjects. In Study 1, using a randomized, two‐sequence crossover design, a 3 mg dose of upadacitinib (immediate‐release capsules) was administered alone under fasting conditions, after high‐fat meal, or on Day 4 of a 6‐day regimen of 400 mg once‐daily ketoconazole. In Study 2, a 12 mg upadacitinib dose was administered alone, with the first, and with the eighth dose of a 9‐day regimen of rifampin 600 mg once daily. Upadacitinib plasma concentrations were characterized.

Results

Administration of upadacitinib immediate‐release capsules after a high‐fat meal decreased upadacitinib Cmax by 23% and had no impact on upadacitinib AUC relative to the fasting conditions. Ketoconazole (strong CYP3A inhibitor) increased upadacitinib Cmax and AUC by 70% and 75%, respectively. Multiple doses of rifampin (broad CYP inducer) decreased upadacitinib Cmax and AUC by approximately 50% and 60%, respectively. A single dose of rifampin (also an OATP1B inhibitor) had no effect on upadacitinib AUC. Upadacitinib was well tolerated when co‐administered with ketoconazole, rifampin, or after a high‐fat meal.

Conclusions

Strong CYP3A inhibition and broad CYP induction result in a weak and moderate effect, respectively, on upadacitinib exposures. OATP1B inhibition and administration of upadacitinib immediate‐release formulation with food does not impact upadacitinib exposure.
A Critical Note on Treatment of a Severe Diltiazem Intoxication: High‐Dose Calcium and Glucagon Infusions
Authors: Van Veggel Mathilde , Van der Veen Gijs , Jansen Tim , Westerman Elsbeth
Published: May 2017

The morbidity and mortality of a severe calcium channel blocker intoxication is high due to serious toxic cardiac effects. Its treatment is supported by low‐quality evidence from the heterogeneous literature. We describe a case of a severe diltiazem intoxication and critically appraise the efficacy and role of high‐dose calcium and glucagon infusions. A 53‐year‐old woman was admitted to the emergency department with a cardiogenic shock with complete AV block, not responding to atropine, isoprenaline and an external pacemaker. Later on, it became clear that she had a severe diltiazem intoxication which was successfully treated with isotone fluids, inotropes, vasopressors and continuous infusion of high‐dose calcium and glucagon. The patient developed, however, an acute, necrotizing pancreatitis, probably related to iatrogenic high calcium levels. This case demonstrates lack of consensus regarding target levels of serum calcium for treatment of a severe diltiazem intoxication. Goal‐directed tapering of calcium should prevent side effects of iatrogenic hypercalcaemia. The contribution of glucagon infusions is doubtful due to the instability of solubilized glucagon. This might explain why the effect of glucagon is variable in the literature.
The Ethics of Clinical Trials Research in Severe Mood Disorders
Authors: Nugent Allison C. , Miller Franklin G. , Henter Ioline D. , Zarate Carlos A.
Published: May 2017

Mood disorders, including major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorder (BD), are highly prevalent, frequently disabling, and sometimes deadly. Additional research and more effective medications are desperately needed, but clinical trials research in mood disorders is fraught with ethical issues. Although many authors have discussed these issues, most do so from a theoretical viewpoint. This manuscript uses available empirical data to inform a discussion of the primary ethical issues raised in mood disorders research. These include issues of consent and decision‐making capacity, including patients’ motivations for participating in research. We also address drug withdrawals, placebo controls, and the overall safety of research. Finally, we examine the extant literature for studies discussing potential indirect benefits of clinical trials research to participants. Taken together, the evidence suggests that clinical trials research incorporating drug withdrawals and placebo controls can be conducted safely and ethically, even in patients with severe or treatment‐resistant mood disorders. In fact, given the dearth of effective treatment options for this population, it is our opinion that a moral imperative exists to extend the offer of research participation to severely ill or treatment‐resistant groups.
The Voluntary Nature of Decision‐Making in Addiction: Static Metaphysical Views Versus Epistemologically Dynamic Views
Authors: Racine Eric , Rousseau‐Lesage Simon
Published: May 2017

The degree of autonomy present in the choices made by individuals with an addiction, notably in the context of research, is unclear and debated. Some have argued that addiction, as it is commonly understood, prevents people from having sufficient decision‐making capacity or self‐control to engage in choices involving substances to which they have an addiction. Others have criticized this position for being too radical and have counter‐argued in favour of the full autonomy of people with an addiction. Aligning ourselves with middle‐ground positions between these two extremes, we flesh out an account of voluntary action that makes room for finer‐grained analyses than the proposed all‐or‐nothing stances, which rely on a rather static metaphysical understanding of the nature of the voluntariness of action. In contrast, a dynamic concept of voluntary action better accounts for varying levels of voluntariness of the person with an addiction which takes into consideration internal (e.g. cravings) and external (e.g. perceptions of degrees of freedom related to different options) determinants of choice. Accordingly, like other components of autonomous choices such as level of information, voluntariness can fluctuate. Therefore, there are important implications for research and clinical ethics in matters of consent, recruitment, and therapeutic approaches. Overall, our proposal is inspired by a pragmatist understanding of voluntary action, notably with respect to how voluntariness is both informed by actions and experiences that shape one's view of the world.
The timing and consequences of the blockage of the Humber Gap by the last British−Irish Ice Sheet
Authors: Bateman Mark D. , Evans David J. A. , Roberts David H. , Medialdea Alicia , Ely Jeremy , Clark Chris D.
Published: May 2017

The eastern England terrestrial glacial sequences are critical to the spatial and temporal reconstruction of the last British−Irish Ice sheet (BIIS). Understanding glacial behaviour in the area of the Humber Gap is key as its blockage by ice created extensive proglacial lakes. This paper maps the glacial geomorphology of the Humber Gap region to establish for the first time the extent and thickness of the North Sea Lobe (NSL) of the BIIS. Findings establish the westerly maximal limit of the NSL. Ten new luminescence ages from across the region show the initial Skipsea Till advance to the maximal limits occurred regionally at c. 21.6 ka (Stage 1) and retreated off‐shore c. 18 ka (Stage 2). Punctuated retreat is evident in the south of the region whilst to the immediate north retreat was initially rapid before a series of near synchronous ice advances (including the Withernsea Till advance) occurred at c. 16.8 ka (Stage 3). Full withdrawal of BIIS ice occurred prior to c. 15 ka (Stage 4). Geomorphic mapping and stratigraphy confirms the existence of a proto Lake Humber prior to Stage 1, which persisted to Stage 3 expanding eastward as the NSL ice retreated. It appears that proglacial lakes formed wherever the NSL encountered low topography and reverse gradients during both phases of both advance and retreat. These lakes may in part help explain the dynamism of parts of the NSL, as they initiated ice draw down and associated streaming/surging. The above record of ice‐dammed lakes provides an analogue for now off‐shore parts of the BIIS where it advanced as a number of asynchronous lowland lobes.
Logging and indigenous hunting impacts on persistence of large Neotropical animals
Authors: Roopsind Anand , Caughlin T. Trevor , Sambhu Hemchandranauth , Fragoso Jose M. V. , Putz Francis E.
Published: May 2017

Areas allocated for industrial logging and community‐owned forests account for over 50% of all remaining tropical forests. Landscape‐scale conservation strategies that include these forests are expected to have substantial benefits for biodiversity, especially for large mammals and birds that require extensive habitat but that are susceptible to extirpation due to synergies between logging and hunting. In addition, their responses to logging alone are poorly understood due to their cryptic behavior and low densities. In this study, we assessed the effects of logging and hunting on detection and occupancy rates of large vertebrates in a multiple‐use forest on the Guiana Shield. Our study site was certified as being responsibly managed for timber production and indigenous communities are legally guaranteed use‐rights to the forest. We coupled camera‐trap data for wildlife detection with a spatially explicit dataset on indigenous hunting. A multi‐species occupancy model found a weak positive effect of logging on occupancy and detection rates, while hunting had a weak negative effect. Model predictions of species richness were also higher in logged forest sites compared to unlogged forest sites. Density estimates for jaguars and ocelots in our multiple‐use area were similar to estimates reported for fully protected areas. Involvement of local communities in forest management, control of forest access, and nesting production forests in a landscape that includes protected areas seemed important for these positive biodiversity outcomes. The maintenance of vertebrate species bodes well for both biodiversity and the humans that depend on multiple‐use forests.
Electromagnetic Fields, Pulsed Radiofrequency Radiation, and Epigenetics: How Wireless Technologies May Affect Childhood Development
Authors: Sage Cindy , Burgio Ernesto
Published: May 2017

Mobile phones and other wireless devices that produce electromagnetic fields (EMF) and pulsed radiofrequency radiation (RFR) are widely documented to cause potentially harmful health impacts that can be detrimental to young people. New epigenetic studies are profiled in this review to account for some neurodevelopmental and neurobehavioral changes due to exposure to wireless technologies. Symptoms of retarded memory, learning, cognition, attention, and behavioral problems have been reported in numerous studies and are similarly manifested in autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders, as a result of EMF and RFR exposures where both epigenetic drivers and genetic (DNA) damage are likely contributors. Technology benefits can be realized by adopting wired devices for education to avoid health risk and promote academic achievement.
A space of safety: Children's experience of equine‐assisted group therapy
Authors: Dunlop Katie , Tsantefski Menka
Published: May 2017

Owing to a shift in alcohol and other drug practice towards a more ecological understanding of the impact of problematic parental substance use, children who were previously forgotten by practitioners are increasingly being included in alcohol and other drug service provision. Occurring concurrently with these changes has been a boom in interest in non‐talk‐based therapies to enhance child well‐being. Examples of such therapeutic interventions include adventure‐based activities, theatre, yoga, music, and purposeful interaction with animals. The latter approach, increasingly delivered by social workers, is known as animal‐assisted therapy and involves the inclusion of animals in a goal‐directed intervention. Equine‐assisted therapy (EAT) is a specialised branch of animal‐assisted therapy in which horses are used to cofacilitate therapeutic interventions. Although EAT practitioners argue horses are uniquely effective therapeutic animals, a strong evidence base has not yet developed. The present study utilised qualitative methods to explore children's individual experiences of an EAT program. Thematic analysis of interview data found that EAT is beneficial to children experiencing problematic parental substance use as it offers an environment in which children can feel safe and secure and are supported to grow, personally and socially, by mastering fears, making new friends, and improving their interpersonal behaviours.
Prospective randomized trial of neoadjuvant chemotherapy during the ‘wait period’ following preoperative chemoradiotherapy for rectal cancer: results of the WAIT trial
Authors: Moore J. , Price T. , Carruthers S. , Selva‐Nayagam S. , Luck A. , Thomas M. , Hewett P.
Published: May 2017

Aim

The aim was to determine whether the addition of additional cycles of chemotherapy during the ‘wait period’ following neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy for rectal cancer improves the pathological complete response (pCR) rate.

Method

Rectal cancer patients were randomly allocated either to a standard 10 week wait period before surgery (standard chemoradiotherapy, SCRT) or to receive three cycles of fluorouracil based chemotherapy following chemoradiotherapy during a similar 10 week wait (extended chemoradiotherapy, XCRT). The primary end‐point was pCR as determined by blinded pathological assessment.

Results

Forty‐nine patients were randomized (SCRTn = 24, XCRTn = 25). pCR occurred in 10 patients overall but there was no significant difference in pCR between the groups (SCRTn = 6, XCRTn = 4, P = 0.49).

Conclusion

The addition of three cycles of 5‐fluorouracil/leucovorin in a 10 week wait period after conventional chemoradiotherapy seems to result in similar pCR rates in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer based on this small randomized trial.
The Interactive Origin of Iconicity
Authors: Tamariz Mónica , Roberts Seán G. , Martínez J. Isidro , Santiago Julio
Published: May 2017

We investigate the emergence of iconicity, specifically a bouba‐kiki effect in miniature artificial languages under different functional constraints: when the languages are reproduced and when they are used communicatively. We ran transmission chains of (a) participant dyads who played an interactive communicative game and (b) individual participants who played a matched learning game. An analysis of the languages over six generations in an iterated learning experiment revealed that in the Communication condition, but not in the Reproduction condition, words for spiky shapes tend to be rated by naive judges as more spiky than the words for round shapes. This suggests that iconicity may not only be the outcome of innovations introduced by individuals, but, crucially, the result of interlocutor negotiation of new communicative conventions. We interpret our results as an illustration of cultural evolution by random mutation and selection (as opposed to by guided variation).
Spectroscopic and conductometric studies on the interactions of thionine with anionic and nonionic surfactants
Authors: Göktürk Sinem , Keskin Güneş , Talman Remziye Yeşim Cantürk , Çakır Neşe
Published: May 2017

In this study, the interaction of thionine, a cationic dye, with anionic [sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS), lithium dodecyl sulphate (LiDS), and sodium dodecylbenzene sulphonate (SDBS)], nonionic (Tween 20 and Triton X‐100), and binary mixtures of anionic and nonionic surfactants was studied by conductometric and spectrophotometric measurements. The degree of ionisation, the counterion binding parameters, and the equilibrium constants in the premicellar region were obtained from conductivity data. Binding constants of thionine to anionic, nonionic, and mixtures of anionic and nonionic micelles were determined by spectrophotometric measurements. The binding tendency of thionine to anionic micelles followed the order SDBS > SDS > LiDS. The presence of nonionic surfactants increased significantly the binding affinity of thionine to anionic micelles, and the highest binding constant was calculated in the presence of Tween 20. The results obtained from conductometric studies correlated with those obtained from spectroscopic studies. Data concerning dye–surfactant interaction are important for a fundamental understanding of the performance of single and mixed surfactants and for their industrial application.
Spectrophotometric colour matching algorithm for top‐dyed mélange yarn, based on an artificial neural network
Authors: Shen Jiajia , Zhou Xiang
Published: May 2017

Colour, the first element of quality control of textile products, is a complex subject relating to physical optics, psychology, and the human visual system. Colour matching remains one of the major problems in the textile industry. Mélange yarn is a class of textile product with a specific colour appearance, which colour is mainly affected by colour matching of the dyed fibres and their ratio for spinning rather than by the dyeing process. The existing colour matching models for mélange yarn derived from specific types of fibre or specific spinning processes are restricted by the adopted conditions and parameters of the model, resulting in low universal applicability and low accuracy. In this paper, a spectrophotometric colour matching algorithm based on the back‐propagation (BP) neural network and its processes were proposed. The weighted average spectrum was predicted by a BP neural network, followed by recipe prediction from the weighted average with constrained least squares. The results showed that the average colour difference of practical samples, based on the prediction of nine blind testing targets, was 0.79 CMC (2:1) units if more than two a priori training samples were used. This result indicated the capability and practicality of accurate prediction of colour matching for top‐dyed mélange yarn by this novel method.
Ionic‐liquid‐assisted mixed alkali system for reactive dye fixation in a batch process – optimisation through response surface methodology
Authors: Kore Umesh B. , Shukla Sanjeev R.
Published: May 2017

An ionic liquid, choline hydroxide, was synthesised and used in a mixed alkali system for fixation of homobifunctional reactive dyes. Its molecular structure was confirmed using FTIR, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR spectroscopy. Response surface methodology was employed to optimise the dyeing conditions for reactive dyes using a sodium carbonate–choline hydroxide mixed alkali system. A Box–Behnken design with three variables, namely sodium carbonate concentration, choline hydroxide concentration, and fixation time, was used to design the experimental runs. Analysis of variance was used to estimate the statistical parameters and to evaluate the quality of the statistical model fit. The quality and model terms were evaluated using Fisher's F‐test, the coefficient of determination, and probability values. The interactive effect of operating variables on the response (K/S) was studied using three‐dimensional response surface plots. The results obtained from the solutions of highest desirability were found to be comparable with conventionally used alkali systems, namely sodium carbonate alone and sodium carbonate–sodium hydroxide mixed alkali. The ionic liquid choline hydroxide could be effectively used along with sodium carbonate for fixation of reactive dyes, with the advantage of reductions in pollution load, total dissolved solids, and chemical oxygen demand.
Bioinformatics Analysis on Molecular Mechanism of Green Tea Compound Epigallocatechin‐3‐Gallate Against Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Xinqiang S , Mu Z , Lei C , Mun LY
Published: May 2017

Epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG) is the most abundant and biologically active catechin in green tea, and it exerts multiple effects in humans through mechanisms that remain to be clarified. The present study used bioinformatics to identify possible mechanisms by which EGCG reduces the risk of ovarian cancer. Possible human protein targets of EGCG were identified in the PubChem database, possible human gene targets were identified in the National Center for Biotechnology Information database, and then both sets of targets were analyzed using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA). The results suggest that signaling proteins affected by EGCG in ovarian cancer, which include JUN, FADD, NFKB1, Bcl‐2, HIF1α, and MMP, are involved primarily in cell cycle, cellular assembly and organization, DNA replication, etc. These results identify several specific proteins and pathways that may be affected by EGCG in ovarian cancer, and they illustrate the power of integrative informatics and chemical fragment analysis for focusing mechanistic studies.
Diabetes mellitus and risk of early‐onset Alzheimer's disease: a population‐based case–control study
Authors: Kadohara K. , Sato I. , Kawakami K.
Published: May 2017

Background and purpose

Previous studies have reported that diabetes is a risk factor for both all‐cause and vascular dementia; however, diabetes as a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD) remains controversial. Therefore, the aim was to elucidate the association between diabetes and early‐onset AD.

Methods

A case–control study was conducted using a population‐based database that included medical and pharmacy claims and insurance eligibility data, from beneficiaries of corporate employees and their dependent family members. Cases were aged 40–64 years and were first prescribed medications for AD between 2005 and 2016. Up to four controls matched for age, sex and hospital type were included for each case. Data were analyzed using conditional logistic regression and compared between the sexes.

Results

Data from 371 patients with AD (mean age 56.3 ± 5.3 years; 48% female) and 1484 controls were analyzed. Use of antidepressants, antipsychotics and antithrombotics during the index month was higher amongst patients with AD (19.4%, 34.5% and 11.3%, respectively) than amongst controls (2.9%, 10.3% and 7.3%, respectively). Our findings suggest no evidence for an association between diabetes and risk of early‐onset AD (adjusted odds ratio 1.31; 95% confidence interval 0.90–1.92). In the subgroup analyses, adjusted odds ratios in patients with diabetes were 0.73 (95% confidence interval 0.38–1.39) and 1.68 (95% confidence interval 1.06–2.67) for female and male patients, respectively.

Conclusions

There is no apparent association between diabetes and risk of early‐onset AD in the total study population, although a weak association was observed amongst male patients.
Aristotle as an ichthyologist: Exploring Aegean fish diversity 2,400 years ago
Authors: Ganias Kostas , Mezarli Charikleia , Voultsiadou Eleni
Published: May 2017

In an attempt to trace the origins of the science of ichthyology, we studied Aristotle's zoological works (21 books in total), aiming to give an exhaustive catalogue of his fishes, suitable for use by modern marine biologists, and to evaluate the great philosopher's knowledge of fish biology. Our investigation yielded 135 ichthyonyms used to describe 109 individual fish taxa (13 fishes had multiple names) and 12 terms that corresponded either to fish developmental stages or behavioural patterns. Because of the variable amount of information given in the texts, 54 fishes were identified to species or genus level, 24 fishes to higher categories (family, order), 27 fishes could only be classified as Actinopterygii or Elasmobranchii, while four could not be classified at all. Among the most easily recognizable fishes were Lophius spp., Conger conger, Muraena helena, Anguilla anguilla and Mugil cephalus. The latter two and the tunas (Τhunnus spp.) were the most frequently recorded fishes. Aristotle's inquiry was not limited or focused on fish that were of human interest, but he also reported or described species that fascinated him by their peculiar life history. He was interested in a wide array of aspects of fish biology ranging from body structure and function, reproduction and development to fish feeding habits, migrations and diseases. As evidenced by his work, Aristotle should be considered the first ichthyologist, preoccupied with the zoological, scientific study of fish, and a review of his writings can prove useful for current ichthyological research.
The energy sensing LKB1–AMPKα1 pathway regulates IGF1 secretion and consequent activation of the IGF1R–PKB pathway in primary hepatocytes
Authors: Chen Liang , Chen Qiaoli , Rong Ping , Wang Hong Yu , Chen Shuai
Published: May 2017

The insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF1) pathway has been linked with various diseases including diabetes, cancer and aging. In contrast to the well‐established regulatory mechanisms controlling IGF1 expression, molecular mechanisms regulating its secretion are not fully understood. The AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a key energy sensor, and cumulative evidence shows that it is an attractive therapeutic target for treatment of diabetes, cancer and aging. Here we found that deficiency of AMPK promoted IGF1 secretion in mouse primary hepatocytes. Furthermore, we found that AMPKα1 but not AMPKα2 was involved in regulation of IGF1 secretion in mouse primary hepatocytes. Knockout of AMPK caused activation of the IGF1 receptor (IGF1R)–protein kinase B (PKB; also known as Akt) pathway in hepatocytes, which was mediated by hypersecretion of IGF1. Upstream of AMPK, liver kinase B1 (LKB1) was responsible for AMPK‐dependent suppression of IGF1 secretion in hepatocytes. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that the energy‐sensing LKB1–AMPK pathway regulates IGF1 secretion in mouse primary hepatocytes, which in turn regulates activation of the IGF1R–PKB pathway.
Unraveling the importance of the malaria parasite helicases
Authors: Tuteja Renu
Published: May 2017

Malaria is a human parasitic disease caused by infection from Plasmodium species, particularly Plasmodium falciparum. Each year millions of people are infected with malaria and large numbers of deaths result due to this deadly infection. P. falciparum contains 14 chromosomes, nearly 5400 genes and a multistage life cycle in humans and mosquitoes. The control of malaria is still a challenge as the parasite is continuously developing resistance to available antimalarial drugs and the mosquito vector is developing resistance to insecticides. The availability of P. falciparum genome has resulted in the identification of parasite‐specific proteins that can be targeted without harmful effects to the human host. Toward this goal, we have been working on the identification and characterization of helicases in order to find parasite‐specific helicases, which can be used as novel drug targets to tackle the rising problem of drug resistance. Helicases are ATP‐dependent nucleic acid unwinding enzymes. The P. falciparum genome analysis depicts that it contains some parasite‐specific helicases and homologs to most of the human helicases. Here, we present an overview of P. falciparum helicases and their importance in parasite growth and survival.
Introduction: Special Issue on Anti‐Slavery and Australia
Authors: Paisley Fiona
Published: May 2017

This introduction sets out several of the key themes for this special issue, including new ways of thinking about histories of humanitarianism and empire, and humanitarian campaigns concerned with Aboriginal conditions in settler colonial Australia from the mid‐19th to the present day. This special issue brings new work together investigating two high points in imperial and international humanitarianism – the Abolition and League of Nations eras – and poses the question of how and why these pasts still echo in relation to the representation of ‘new slaveries’ in the present.
Antislavery, elite men, and the “voice of the British nation:” c.1790–1860
Authors: Morecroft Eleanor
Published: May 2017

In the late 18th and 19th centuries, antislavery and other humanitarian writers often defined their views as “the voice of the British nation”. To be allied with this metaphorical “voice” vouchsafed moral authority to elite men whose position as “natural” rulers was, in an age of reform, being challenged. Touching upon issues across a 70‐year period, with particular focus on the 1830s and 40s, this essay develops this theme through the examples of Charles, George, and William Napier: aristocratic military officers who spoke or wrote in support of antislavery and against the ill treatment of indigenous peoples in India, Australia, and South Africa. Their attitudes fed into their own senses of self, moral authority, class consciousness, and nationhood, as well as how their public selves would be represented by others. The history of antislavery provides a beneficial lens through which masculine ideals, and the use of reformism to reinforce elite men's power in nation and empire, can be better understood. This approach resonates with scholarship that has sought to integrate antislavery with broader metropolitan and colonial themes.
High burden of metabolic comorbidities in a citywide cohort of HIV outpatients: evolving health care needs of people aging with HIV in Washington, DC
Authors: Levy ME , Greenberg AE , Hart R , Powers Happ L , Hadigan C , Castel A ,   the DC Cohort Executive Committee
Published: May 2017

Objectives

With the increasing impact of cardiovascular disease among populations aging with HIV, contemporary prevalence estimates for predisposing metabolic comorbidities will be important for guiding the provision of relevant lifestyle and pharmacological interventions. We estimated the citywide prevalence of hypertension, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidaemia, and obesity; examined differences by demographic subgroups; and assessed clinical correlates.

Methods

Utilizing an electronic medical record (EMR) database from the DC Cohort study – a multicentre prospective cohort study of HIV‐infected outpatients – we assessed the period prevalence of metabolic comorbidities between 2011 and 2015 using composite definitions that incorporated diagnoses, pharmacy records, and clinical/laboratory results.

Results

Of 7018 adult patients (median age 50 years; 77% black), 50% [95% confidence interval (CI) 49–51] had hypertension, 13% (95% CI: 12–14) had diabetes, 48% (95% CI: 47–49) had dyslipidaemia, and 35% (95% CI: 34–36) had obesity. Hypertension was more prevalent among black patients, diabetes and obesity were more prevalent among female and black patients, dyslipidaemia was more prevalent among male and white patients, and comorbidities were more prevalent among older patients (all P < 0.001). For many patients, evidence of treatment for these comorbidities was not available in the EMR. Longer time since HIV diagnosis, greater duration of antiretroviral treatment, and having controlled immunovirological parameters were associated with metabolic comorbidities.

Conclusions

These findings underscore the pervasive burden of metabolic comorbidities among HIV‐infected persons, serve as the basis for future analyses characterizing their impact on subsequent adverse cardiovascular outcomes, and highlight the need for an increased focus on the prevention and control of comorbid complications in this population.
Bibliometrics in glass and other sciences: A Plea for reason
Authors: Montazerian Maziar , Zanotto Edgar Dutra , Eckert Hellmut
Published: May 2017

We show a scientometric analysis for glass researchers and compare it with those for researchers in two fashionable research topics, representing the science‐push area “graphene” and the market‐pull area “lithium ion battery (LIB)”. We also present similar statistics for two widely different macro fields, “materials science” (which contains the other three) and “mathematics”. While productivity (number of published articles) of a researcher and his/her H‐index are found to be correlated, these correlations are very different for different research fields, depending on their size, fragmentation, interdisciplinarity, and on the community's publication and citation culture. We also explore the correlation between citation statistics and scientific quality and find it to be elusive. While certain bibliometric indexes indeed indicate how active, prolific, and visible a researcher (or a research group) is, we argue that quality—evaluated by the originality, strength, reproducibility and relevance of the findings of a researcher's publications (as judged by peer review)—is much more important than the number of published articles and citations, and this is where efforts must be concentrated by researchers and evaluating bodies.
Effect of precooking and polyphosphate treatment on the quality of catfish fillets cooked in pouch in boiling water
Authors: Li Carissa H. , Bland John M. , Bechtel Peter J.
Published: May 2017

Cooking or reheating food in a vacuum‐sealed bag has been a common method of preparing vegetables, meats and poultry products. However, there are very few examples of vacuum‐sealed bags designed for cooking catfish fillets. The objective was to examine properties of raw frozen and precooked frozen catfish fillets that were cooked in a vacuum‐sealed pouch in boiling water. The effect of a commercial polyphosphate blend (IQF) on product properties was also evaluated. Sample analyses included weight loss, proximate content, colour (CIE L*a*b*), pH, mechanical texture and lipid peroxidation (TBARS) measurements. Both raw frozen and precooked frozen IQF fillets showed a significantly lower per cent moisture loss after cooking, of less than 2.7% relative to the fillets without polyphosphate (6.2–7.4%). Colour analysis showed a significantly higher b*(C) (yellowness) value for fillets without polyphosphate. Similar texture properties were observed between cooking treatments, with a harder texture (~1.3–1.7 times) determined for fillets without polyphosphate.
Effect of gelatin/agar bilayer film incorporated with TiO2 nanoparticles as a UV absorbent on fish oil photooxidation
Authors: Vejdan Akbar , Ojagh Seyed Mahdi , Abdollahi Mehdi
Published: May 2017

This research evaluated the effect of gelatin/agar bilayer film and nanocomposites containing different concentrations of TiO2 nanoparticles (0.5%, 1% and 2%) as ultraviolet (UV) and oxygen barriers on the oxidative stability of fish oil. Samples of fish oil covered with the bilayer films were stored under UV light or in darkness and with or without lids at 18 °C for 12 days. Oil quality in terms of peroxide values (PV), thiobarbituric acid (TBA), conjugated diene (CD), fatty acids profile and colour change (∆E) was monitored during storage. Fish oil photooxidation was hindered by increasing TiO2 concentration, so that nanocomposite containing 2% of the nanoparticles could control photooxidation, similar to the samples stored in darkness. Furthermore, upon studying both photooxidation and autoxidation, the highest amounts of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), as well as the lowest amount of changes in PV, TBA, CD and ∆E, were observed in oils covered with the nanocomposites.
Preparation and characterisation of glyceollin‐enriched soya bean protein using solid‐state fermentation
Authors: Chen Yan‐Qiong , Su Hua‐Jia , Ouyang Ying , Wang Jin‐Mei , Yang Xiao‐Quan , Hu Wen‐Feng
Published: May 2017

Glyceollins, stress‐induced phytoalexins from parent soya bean isoflavones, were elicited with Aspergillus oryzae. This solid‐state fermentation facilitated the conversion of isoflavone glycosides into aglycones and glyceollins, which could mainly enrich in soya bean protein isolate (SPI) during protein preparation due to protein–polyphenol interactions. Glyceollin‐enriched SPI exhibited less flavour volatiles, higher solubility, lower whiteness and higher antioxidant activity than unfermented SPI. Fermented SPI was more easily to be digested during in vitro pepsin–trypsin digestion. This may be attributed to partial degradation of protein, especially α′ and α subunits of β‐conglycinin and acidic subunit of glycinin. The antioxidant activity of digestive products derived from fermented SPI was obviously enhanced with increasing digestion time due to simultaneous release of antioxidant peptides and glyceollins involved in the interior of protein molecule. These results suggest an effective technique for producing a nutrient‐enhanced SPI as novel functional ingredients applied in food industry.
Heated or raw Blue cheeses: what are the drivers influencing consumer preferences?
Authors: Bord Cécile , Guerinon Delphine , Lebecque Annick
Published: May 2017

Six French Blue cheeses (two cheese types of varying ripening times) were evaluated under two treatment conditions, raw cheeses (without heating) and heated cheeses (with heating), in order to describe the sensory properties of raw and heated cheeses and to identify the sensory keys drivers of liking and disliking that explain consumer preference patterns. A trained panel performed sensory profiles of selected cheeses. In parallel, 153 French consumers evaluated the same cheeses for overall liking and intensity of gustatory attributes, coupled with open‐ended questions. Descriptive analysis revealed a clear distinction between the two treatment conditions. In addition, three clusters of consumers were identified with distinctive preference profiles. One of the clusters, including about 25% of consumers, clearly preferred cheeses with a high flavour intensity whatever the treatment conditions. A second cluster, 50% of consumers, liked only heated cheeses, for which texture and appearance were determined as drivers of liking. The third cluster preferred cheeses with a slight flavour intensity whatever the treatment conditions.