bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three probiotic strains exert different effects on plasma bile acid profiles in healthy obese adults: randomised, double-blind placebo-controlled crossover study
Authors: Culpepper T. , Rowe C.C. , Rusch C.T. , Burns A.M. , Federico A.P. , Girard S.-A. , Tompkins T.A. , Nieves C. , Dennis-Wall J.C. , Christman M.C. , Langkamp-Henken B.
Published: May 2019

Microbial metabolism in the gut may alter human bile acid metabolism in a way that beneficially affects lipid homeostasis and therefore cardiovascular disease risk. Deconjugation of bile acids by microbes is thought to be key to this mechanism but has yet to be characterised in blood and stool while observing lipid markers. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of 3 different probiotic strains on plasma and stool bile acids in the context of lipid and glucose metabolism. In this 18-week, randomised, double-blind crossover study, healthy adults (53±8 years) with a high waist circumference underwent a 1-week pre-baseline period and were then randomised to receive 1 capsule/day of Bacillus subtilis R0179 (2.5×109 cfu/capsule; n=39), Lactobacillus plantarum HA-119 (5×109 cfu/capsule; n=38), Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis B94 (5×109 cfu/capsule; n=37) or placebo for 6 weeks. Following a 3-week washout and second pre-baseline week, participants were crossed to the other intervention for 6 weeks followed by a 1-week post-intervention period. Blood and stool samples were collected at the beginning and end of each intervention to measure bile acids, serum lipid profiles, and glucose and insulin levels. Data from the placebo intervention were combined for all participants for analyses. In obese participants, the difference (final-baseline) in the sum of deconjugated plasma bile acids was greater with consumption of B. subtilis (691±378 nmol/l, P=0.01) and B. lactis (380±165 nmol/l, P=0.04) than with placebo (98±176 nmol/l, n=57). No significant differences were observed for any probiotics for stool bile acids, serum lipids, blood glucose or insulin. These data suggest that B. subtilis and B. lactis had no effect on glucose metabolism or serum cholesterol but increased deconjugated plasma bile acids in obese individuals. Additional studies should be conducted to confirm these findings and explore potential mechanisms. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01879098.
The aspergillic acid biosynthetic gene cluster predicts neoaspergillic acid production inAspergillus sectionCircumdati
Authors: Lebar M.D. , Mack B.M. , Carter-Wientjes C.H. , Gilbert M.K.
Published: May 2019

The fungusAspergillus flavus is an opportunistic crop pathogen that produces aflatoxins. Aflatoxins are potent carcinogenic and hepatotoxic secondary metabolites that are highly regulated in most countries.A. flavus also produces many other secondary metabolites and harbours more than 50 putative secondary metabolite biosynthetic gene clusters that have yet to be characterised. Bioactive secondary metabolites that augment the ability of the fungus to infect crops are of particular interest. Biosynthetic gene cluster 11 inA. flavus has been recently shown to encode for the biosynthesis of aspergillic acid, a toxic hydroxamic acid-containing pyrazinone compound that can bind iron, resulting in a red-orange pigment known as ferriaspergillin. A decrease inA. flavus pathogenicity and aflatoxin contamination was observed when aspergillic acid biosynthesis was blocked during maize seed infection. In this study, we probe the available genomes ofAspergillus species for biosynthetic gene cluster 11 homologs. We find that all species possessing gene cluster 11 produce aspergillic acid or a closely related isomer. We demonstrate that theAspergillus sectionFlavi species harbouring biosynthetic gene cluster 11 produce a mixture of aspergillic acid, hydroxyaspergillic acid, and aspergillic acid analogs differing only in the amino acid precursors. Interestingly, manyAspergillus sectionCircumdati species, known mainly for their production of the problematic mycotoxin ochratoxin A, also harbour gene cluster 11 homologs, but do not produce aspergillic acid. Instead, these species produce neoaspergillic acid and its hydroxylated analog neohydroxyaspergillic acid, indicating that cluster 11 is responsible for neoaspergillic acid biosynthesis inAspergillus sectionCircumdati.
Monascus spp. used in wheat kernel solid-state fermentations: growth, extrolite production and citrinin cytotoxicity
Authors: Coton M. , Hymery N. , Piqueras J. , Poirier E. , Mounier J. , Coton E. , Picot A.
Published: May 2019

Monascus fermentation products can be consumed as food or feed supplements or used as food colouring or flavouring agents. In this study, qPCR and Q-TOF LC/MS methods were developed to monitorMonascus ruber andMonascus purpureus growth and extrolite (lovastatin, mevastatin, as well as the regulated mycotoxin, citrinin (CIT)) production, respectively. Wheat kernels were inoculated with one strain of each species during a solid-state fermentation followed over 63 days. Different growth and extrolite production patterns were clearly observed for the 2 tested strains. After 63 days, high lovastatin levels (up to 0.5 mg/g) were reached forM. ruber wheat fermented kernels whileM. purpureus only yielded 0.1 mg/g of lovastatin at best, suggesting thatM. ruber may be a better candidate for lovastatin production in a wheat-based model. Mevastatin levels were low and stable for both species. However,M. ruber fermented wheat kernels also contained the highest CIT content, up to 4.2 μg/g, i.e. at levels above the regulation threshold set by the European Union. CIT toxicity was then determinedin vitro on bovine kidney cells, showing an IC10 of 6.10-4 M. At maximum concentrations encountered during solid-state fermentation, CIT toxicity was very low under chronic exposure.
Corporate Governance-Based Evaluation of Alternative Distribution Channels in the Turkish Banking Sector Using Quality Function Deployment With an Integrated Fuzzy MCDM Method
Authors: Dinçer Hasan , Yüksel Serhat , Kartal Mustafa Tevfik , Alpman Gökhan
Published: May 2019

The aim of the chapter is to evaluate the effect of corporate governance in alternative distribution channels for the Turkish banking sector. For this purpose, an integrated fuzzy MCDM model is structured to analyze the multi-dimensional effects of corporate governance for ranking the performance of alternative distribution channels by using the phases of quality function deployment. The method is constructed with the hybrid model by considering the fuzzy DEMATEL and fuzzy TOPSIS. Initially, the consumer needs and other internal and external factors that present the dimensions of the corporate governance are defined to analyze the results using the quality function deployment approach, and then the fuzzy DEMATEL method is used for the weights of dimensions for each perspective of house of quality. The fuzzy TOPSIS is used for ranking the alternative distribution channels in the Turkish banking sector. It is concluded that in the Turkish banking sector, branch is the most preferred alternative distribution channel whereas the importance of ATM and social media is very low in comparison with others. Hence, it is believed that using other channels, such as social media and ATM, has an increasing effect in order to increase the effectiveness of the banking sector. Therefore, it can be said that necessary infrastructure should be provided to attract the attention of the parties to make banking transactions through social media and ATMs.
Globally Responsible Intergenerational Leadership
Authors: Aydogmus Ceren
Published: May 2019

Today's workforce is more diverse than ever, comprised of five generational cohorts: Traditionalists, Baby Boomers, Generation X, Generation Y, and Generation Z. As each generation has its own values, beliefs, and expectations, their leadership preferences pose new challenges for organizations. In this chapter, leadership approaches are discussed, and the differences and similarities among preferred generational leadership styles are examined. The purpose of this chapter is to determine an appropriate leadership style that meets the needs of all generations, and globally responsible inter-generational leadership has been suggested as the most effective approach.
Investigations on the Microstripline-Fed Wide-Slot Antennas for Wideband Applications
Authors: Chattopadhyay Krishnendu , Chaudhuri Sekhar Ranjan Bhadra
Published: May 2019

Microstrip patch antennas are printed antennas that find suitability because they are lightweight, low volume, thin in profile, dual frequency, and dual polarization operation, and compatible with MMIC. The objective of chapter is to exhibit the investigations on the bandwidth enhancement of microstrip antennas with special reference to microstrip-line-fed wide-slot antennas. Performances are realized and validated through experimental studies on the impedance properties by VNA and radiation properties by pattern measurement setup. An innovative method for the design of hexagonal wide-slot antenna has been proposed considering it as an equivalent magnetic surface of monopole antenna. Impedance bandwidth of the above slot antenna is enhanced through various tuning stubs. In case of forklike tuning stub, the obtained bandwidth is about 900MHz, for hexagonal stub the available bandwidth is 1751MHz. Further improvement in bandwidth is proposed through rotation of hexagonal wide slot, results in wide bandwidth of 5165 MHz covering all the WLAN and WiMAX applications.
Design of Spiral Square Patch Antenna for Wireless Communications
Authors: Naik Ketavath Kumar
Published: May 2019

The kapton polyimide material is considered to design conformal antenna with spiral square for radio frequency identification (RFID) and wireless local area network (WLAN) applications. In this chapter, the analysis and investigation has been carried out with spiral square techniques using coplanar waveguide (CPW) feed. The proposed antenna operates at 5.8 GHz with impedance bandwidth of 170 MHz (5.73 - 5.9 GHz) with return loss -25.6 dB and gain is 2.4 dBi. The proposed antenna has considered with different bending angles for investigating the conformal characteristics due to flexibility of the material. These results are presented for omni-directional radiation patterns.
How Corporate Standardization Shapes Tomorrow's Business
Authors: de Casanove Alice
Published: May 2019

Corporate standardization coordinates and supports experts involved in standardization bodies. It sets up standardization strategy in alignment with global strategy of the company. In this chapter, the authors illustrate how a company can embrace standardization and leverage it to increase its position in a competitive business environment. The authors first present an overview of corporate standardization strategy: how is standardization considered in a private company; how to capture the ins and outs of a corporate standardization; how to define, implement, and manage standardization strategy; etc. Then the authors present the benefits of standardization development for a company. Finally, an example of commitment in ISO TC 279 innovation management is presented.
Standardization as an Organizational Capability
Authors: Johansson Magnus , Hallberg Niklas L.
Published: May 2019

This chapter examines the organizational capabilities that firms develop in order to influence and adapt to standards. Standards are voluntary rules or guidelines developed by standard-setting organizations or consortia in order to promote compatibility/interoperability, minimum quality, variety reduction, and information. The authors argue that firms develop specific capabilities for assessing which emerging standards are likely to become dominant, and in order to successfully influence the development of new standards. The argument is illustrated by a case study of a global player in the information and communication technology sector.
Company IT Standardization
Authors: van Wessel Robert M. , de Vries Henk J.
Published: May 2019

Many companies have embarked on IT standardization initiatives with specific benefits in mind, but some projects fail dramatically whereas others are very successful. The research suggests that successful company standardization projects require good governance and management across distinct lifecycle phases: selection, implementation, and use and change. The authors present a case study from a financial services company to demonstrate effective practices that have led to significant financial benefits, to improved service delivery and support, and to a more stable IT environment. In addition, the authors discuss how an agile way of working could further improve standardization initiatives in organizations.
Managing In-Company Standardization While Avoiding Resistance
Authors: Haverkamp Ries , de Vries Henk J.
Published: May 2019

Standards may be an advantage for a company, but employees often resist them because they feel they are forced to behave in a certain way. Even a broad approach like TQM seems to have to too little focus on the “human aspects” to prevent resistance and failure during change projects like in-company standardization. This chapter uses a philosophical approach to study why staff tend to resist company standardization initiatives. Foucault and Habermas provide insights into the reasons for this resistance but do not solve the tension between freedom and control. Dooyeweerd's philosophy seems to be more promising. This chapter uses a company standardization project of an automotive supplier to examine these three philosophical approaches to understand resistance to standards and to investigate how this resistance can be avoided by managing in-company standardization in a more holistic way.
The Role of Internal Standardization in Business Models
Authors: Johansson Magnus , Kärreman Matts , Foukaki Amalia
Published: May 2019

This chapter focuses on business models and the role of internal standardization in business models. The authors develop a typology that outlines the role of internal standardization for a set of value configurations that serve as representations of generic business models. The topic is of importance for both managers and researchers in relation to firm level innovation and strategy, as well as how business models relate to internal and external standardization. With regard to business model innovation, this chapter can aid in identifying shifts in the firm's internal standardization focus associated with changes in its business model.
Effective Management of Standardizing in E-Government
Authors: Balta Dian
Published: May 2019

Standards play an important role in the interoperable exchange of information among actors with different business functions. Particularly in government, standards enhance communication between public administrations and lay the ground of interoperability in e-government service provision. Still, practice often struggles with numerous challenges such as complex administrative procedures, jurisdiction, numerous stakeholders with diverging wants and needs and the ultimate goal of social welfare. At the same time, academia provides a limited number of approaches to address existing challenges and transferring findings from a private organizations' context is rarely a viable approach. The authors introduce effective management of standardization in e-government by describing the shape of standardization in that specific domain and by encompassing suitable coordination mechanisms. They follow a qualitative explorative research approach and apply coordination theory to pragmatically interpret our findings, offering implications for both theory and practice.
Managing Responsible Standardization of Smart Infrastructures and Applications
Authors: Jakobs Kai
Published: May 2019

Interoperability standards are a sine-qua-non for smart applications and the underlying smart communication infrastructure. This chapter looks at two issues that are associated with the standardization of such smart systems and the ramifications they may have for standardization management. These issues include, on the one hand, the necessary multi-disciplinarity of standards setting and the resulting diversity of stakeholders to be involved. On the other hand, they also include the need to standardize responsibly (i.e., to appreciate that various societal aspects also need to be taken seriously and to be integrated into the process). The complexity of proper standardization management will increase because of these needs.
Some Spanish Approaches on Standardization Management
Authors: Saenz-Nuño María Ana , Marcos Jorge , Fernández-Pintelos María J. , Real Javier Sánchez , Mariblanca Ana Maria
Published: May 2019

This chapter summarized the Spanish experience on the management of new standards including how the development of national standards has risen from needs not covered by international standards and how the collaboration with international bodies has given new opportunities of business. It will also present the problem of the gap between the needs in the industry to have people read standards versus the lack of university graduated students well prepared for that task. It will discuss the Spanish case on metrology standardization history from 1999 until now as an example of the development new standardization. It will present some new fields for standardization that are already under development in Spain related with health metrology.
Jung's Collective Unconscious, Integrative (Mind-Body-Spirit) Yoga, and Self-Realization
Authors: Sharma Manoj
Published: May 2019

The collective unconscious is a construct presented by Jung to epitomize a depiction comprising of memories and impulses about which one is not aware and that is common to the entire humankind. An ancient system of mind-body-spirit practice, yoga, also implies the yoking of human consciousness to super-consciousness, which is an expanded form of the collective unconscious used by Jung. Super-consciousness is not only linked with the unconscious of the humankind but also to the entire nature or Universe all the way to the static primordial state in which there is no vibration and yet is the source of all creation. Yoga helps decipher this primordial state which is also called by some as self-realization. This chapter explicates the concept of the collective unconscious, the system of ancient yoga, a modern practical paradigm of kundalini energy yoga (KEY), and steps for self-realization to decipher and conclude this characterization.
The Important Role of the Blogosphere as a Communication Tool in Social Media Among Polish Young Millennials
Authors: Kuczamer-Kłopotowska Sylwia , Kalinowska-Żeleźnik Anna
Published: May 2019

This chapter proposes and discusses the hypothesis that the blogosphere is a relatively well-developed and independent social media communication tool used by millennials. The first part of the study concentrates on the theoretical aspects of social media communication as presented in the literature, and the way blogs and the whole blogosphere function. The communicational and social profile of Generation Y is presented as it is this cohort that constitutes the major portion of the Polish blogging community. The prevailing trends in the Polish blogosphere are discussed, following a desk research into reports and professional studies. Moreover, some comments and findings are presented regarding an experiment conducted by the authors in which some representatives of younger millennials ran personal, non-profit blogs on a subject of their choice.
Sustaining the Sociopolitical Spirit of Bilingual Education
Authors: Maldonado Saúl I. , Machado-Casas Margarita
Published: May 2019

In this chapter, the authors contribute results and recommendations from a study featuring the assessment perspectives of school and district administrators of bilingual education programs from two regional areas in the United States. They also present research literature that informs how teaching and learning environments structure membership and belonging as social desirability factors for students from diverse national and English-language backgrounds.
Professional Development for Teachers of English Learners (ELs)
Authors: Kozlowski Christina T.
Published: May 2019

This chapter focuses on the role of professional development in supporting teacher capacity for instructing English learners (ELs) while placing the reader at the intersection of three significant areas of research as they relate to ELs: culturally responsive teaching, effective PD, and constructivism. These lenses merge to highlight the important role theory coupled with pedagogical practices influence instruction. The research in this chapter provides key findings from the field as well as recommendations for how to utilize constructivism and culturally responsive pedagogy when planning effective PD. This chapter argues that in order for even well-designed reform models of PD to create sustained instructional change, there must be inclusion of deeper conceptual understanding of second language acquisition (SLA) and culturally responsive teaching.
An Assets-Oriented, Formative Oral Language Assessment for Multilingual Students
Authors: Klein Adria F. , Briceño Allison
Published: May 2019

This chapter introduces an assets-oriented oral language formative assessment tool for use with multilingual students. The assessment tool, called the Oral Language Record (OLR), was developed to help teachers listen to, record, and analyze authentic student talk in a variety of settings. It provides valuable information about the vocabulary and language structures that students use, helps determine current instructional needs, provides a frame for capturing student talk, and documents growth over time. The OLR contains a continuum based on observable behaviors and an analysis tool that helps teachers determine next steps in instruction based on their observations. Used in conjunction with a student's writing sample and observation of the child's reading, the OLR provides a holistic view of a multilingual student's language and literacy acquisition, enabling the teacher to focus on the child's linguistic strengths to plan future instruction.
ILLs for ELLs
Authors: Dunston Yolanda L. , Daniel Justine , Stock Susan
Published: May 2019

The number of U.S. residents who are linguistically diverse has increased significantly over time, and many of these residents are school-age children who are learning English and grade-level content simultaneously. The task of promoting success for these students while holding them to the same high academic standards as their native English-speaking peers can be a daunting one, as teachers also strive to encourage acceptance and a safe context for learning and growth to occur. This chapter highlights one classroom teacher who implemented an instructional strategy, Interactive Learning Logs, which allowed her to create a classroom environment that promoted acceptance, high expectations, and skillful differentiation to meet the needs of all of her students, including her ELLs. The chapter shares this teacher's personal experiences with the ILL strategy and how it enhanced ELL student performance through planned instructional supports.
Culturally and Linguistically Responsive Practice
Authors: Hersi Afra Ahmed
Published: May 2019

This chapter highlights culturally and linguistically responsive (CLR) teaching as a transformative pedagogical model for supporting English learners' access to equitable education. It presents the principles and theories of CLR practice, critical pedagogy, and curriculum, along with their implications for learning. Recommendations for CLR curriculum, instruction, and assessment are provided as well.
My Friends and Family
Authors: Smith Howard L. , Iyengar Kalpana Mukunda
Published: May 2019

This chapter documents an activity during a Family Literacy Night in Latino community of the Southwest. All of the families participating were of Spanish-speaking (i.e., México, El Salvador, Puerto Rico). From a socio-cultural perspective, three points became clear through the interaction: (1) as parents and children collaborated around short texts, they were able to share their individual schema as well as their social, cultural, and linguistic capitals in conversation and in writing Spanish and English; (2) parents naturally assumed the role of mentor throughout the writing sessions; (3) when afforded topic choice and scaffolding for cultural adhesion, students generate texts that reflect their personal perspectives and lived experiences. Thematic analysis of the data revealed that the ELL writers signaled their quotidian concerns and challenges as the reasons for wanting a s/hero. The results argue that, for increased writing in English, educators are well advised to frame school tasks within their students' cultures.
The Transborderization of Neoliberalism
Authors: Rossatto César A. , Soria Beatriz García , Aguirre Jesús
Published: May 2019

On the U.S.-Mexican border, neoliberalism and globalization enables corporations to discriminate against people of color and border crossers in general. However, the struggle for social equity continues to gain strength within spaces of resistance among marginalized and immigrant groups. This chapter presents experiences and narratives of three educators in the pursuit for social justice for Latin@s who live in the borderland region of El Paso, Texas and Cd. Juarez, Mexico. This chapter reflects theoretical structures that support critical analysis of pertinent data established by schooling policies, which maintain white privilege in detriment of people of color. Under a sociocultural and critical pedagogical praxis, new educational trends such as translanguaging, hybridity, and third space are exposed as ways to resist inequalities in the daily life of Latin@s. The analysis of these sociolinguistic tendencies provides opportunities for pedagogical affirmation of cultural identity, self-determination, and the development of the consciousness of racial politics.
Experience and Reflection on PBL and Implementation of Interdisciplinary-Level PBL Plan
Authors: Song Jingping
Published: May 2019

This chapter introduces the author's own teaching practices, teaching philosophy, and teaching challenges by traditional ways in Northeastern University of China at first. Then it presents the author's experience by participatory learning of PBL in UNESCO center of Aalborg University in Denmark. And the impact and guidance of the course on author's teaching philosophy, challenges, and skills are also given in this chapter. To apply PBL teaching methods, the author proposes future teaching plans with PBL. Moreover, design and implementation of interdisciplinary-level PBL plan is presented. And the implementation plan is expounded by six aspects: students, teaching staff, learning goals, contents, teaching and learning methods, and assessment. Finally, a case is put forward by the implementation plan.
AlternariaB Cell Mimotope Immunotherapy Alleviates Allergic Responses in a Mouse Model
Authors: Li Jie , Yang Lin , Wang Jingru , Yang Yongshi , Wu Yuying , Jiang Qing , Yang Yaqi , Ma Dongxia , Zhang Rui , Huang Nan , Li Wenjing , Liu Guanghui , Zhu Rongfei
Published: May 2019

Alternaria is a major outdoor allergen. Immunotherapy with Alternaria extracts has been documented to be effective in the sensitized patients. However, Alternaria extracts are notoriously difficult to standardize. Our aim is to screen the B cell mimotopes of Alternaria and to evaluate the therapeutic effects of B cell mimotope peptides on a BALB/c mouse model of Alternaria allergy. After a human sera pool from Alternaria monosensitized patients was established, B cell mimotopes were screened by a phage-displayed random heptamer peptide library that was identified via mixed Alternaria-specific IgE in the sera pool. B cell mimotopes with phage as a carrier were used to perform immunotherapy in an Alternaria allergy mouse model. Serological Ab levels, lung histology, and cytokine profiles were compared in the mimotope immunotherapy group, natural extract immunotherapy group, irrelevant phage control group, Alternaria-sensitized model group, and saline-blank group. Two mimotopes (MISTSRK and QKRNTIT) presented high binding ability with the sera of the Alternaria-allergic patients and mice and, therefore, were selected for immunotherapy in the mouse model. Compared with irrelevant phage control, model, and natural extract immunotherapy group, mimotope immunotherapy group significantly reduced serum IgE levels, inflammatory cells infiltration in the lung tissue, and IL-4 levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, whereas serum IgG1 and IFN-γ levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid were increased. Our results indicate that B cell mimotopes of Alternaria alleviates allergic response in a mouse model and have potential as novel therapeutic agents for IgE-mediated Alternaria-allergic diseases.
Leonine imagery in C.S. Lewis’s series The Chronicles of Narnia
Authors: Shober Dianne
Published: May 2019

Throughout the centuries, lion images have figured prominently in literature, art, heraldry and statuary. In Chinese art, for instance, lions appear more predominantly than dragons as guardians of buildings and temples, whereas across Europe, warriors surged across continents conquering under the image of the roaring lion emblazoned on their monarchs’ flags. Furthermore, numerous cultures and religious traditions symbolically embody their rulers, both divine and temporal, using leonine imagery. Through an investigation of this imagic representation, this article will explore the selection of the lion, Aslan, as the spiritual depiction of the Christ-figure in C.S. Lewis’ series The Chronicles of Narnia.
Associations between socioeconomic status and blood cadmium levels in Korea
Authors: Jee Yongho , Cho Sung-il
Published: May 2019

OBJECTIVES: Although smoking is associated with both low socioeconomic status and blood cadmium (Cd) levels, the association between socioeconomic status and Cd levels remains unclear. Therefore, our study aimed to examine this association and to clarify whether smoking is a confounding or mediating variable in this relationship.METHODS: Data (n=7,734) were drawn from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES, 2008- 2011), including years that contained data on blood Cd and urinary cotinine levels. We investigated the associations of income, education, and occupation with blood Cd levels. Smoking was investigated by categorizing participants by smoking status (never, former, and current) and pack-years into quartiles. The weekly frequency of rice and barley intake was analyzed to gain insights into participants’ dietary patterns. Additionally, urinary cotinine levels were used to ensure the validity of the smoking variables.RESULTS: Participants earning a low income and with less formal education had higher blood Cd levels. After controlling for smoking, the association between income and Cd levels substantially weakened. Further controlling for education, the association between income and Cd levels disappeared. However, there was a strong negative association between education and Cd levels, even after controlling for smoking history, pack-years, and urinary cotinine levels.CONCLUSIONS: In cross-sectional data from the KNHANES, blood Cd levels were significantly higher among those with a low income and less formal education. Smoking history contributed to, but did not fully explain, these associations.
Is there any superiority of the different abdominal closure techniques for primary closure in high-risk patients?
Authors: Dinçer Mürşit , Aygen Erhan
Published: May 2019

Introduction

Incisional hernia continues to be one of the major problems of surgery due to its high incidence rate and high morbidity. The aims of this study are to compare different repair techniques with primary repair techniques for the risk of incisional hernia.

Material and methods

High-risk patients who had a midline incision of the abdomen were included in this study. Patients were divided into four groups. Each group contained 20 patients. Patients of group 1 were operated on using primary repair. In group 2 Cardiff repair technique was used. The patients in group 3 were repaired with Keel technique. The patients of group 4 were repaired with onlay technique. Patients were followed up with physical examination at 3-month periods in the first year after surgery and 6-month periods in the following two years. Incisional hernia, occurrence time and other complications were noted.

Results

Eighty patients who had high risk of incisional hernia were included in this study. 47.5% of them were female and 52.5% of them were male. The average age of patients was 59.2 ±12.95. Average hospitalization time was 8.5 days (4–28 days). Average follow-up was 18 months (6–34 months). In total 4 (5%) patients had recurrence. Fifteen percent of patients in group 1 had recurrence and 5% of patients in group 2 had recurrence. There was no recurrence in other groups. There was no significant difference for incisional hernia and the other complications between groups (p = 0.368).

Conclusions

There was no significant difference between the techniques in terms of the development of incisional hernias or complications.
NGS study of glucocorticoids response genes in inflammatory bowel disease patients
Authors: Skrzypczak-Zielinska Marzena , Gabryel Marcin , Marszalek Daria , Dobrowolska Agnieszka , Slomski Ryszard
Published: May 2019

Introduction

Despite intensive research and a long history of glucocorticoids being applied in various clinical areas, they still generate a challenge for personalized medicine by causing resistance or dependence in nearly 50% of patients treated. The objective of the present study was to determine the genetic predictors of variable reactions in inflammatory bowel disease patients to glucocorticoid therapy. Therefore, based on the current knowledge on how glucocorticoids act, we have compiled a panel of 21 genes for variant analysis: NR3C1, NLRP1, IPO13, FKBP5, HSPA4, ABCB1, STIP1, HSP90AA1, IL-1A, IL-1B, IL-2, IL-4, CXCL8, IL-10, NFKBIA, JUN, MIF, TNF, MAPK14, CYP3A4, and CYP3A5.

Material and methods

These genes were analyzed using the amplicon next-generation sequencing method in a group of 139 diagnosed and clinically characterized inflammatory bowel disease patients with a confirmed glucocorticoid response.

Results

Analysis of all the targeted DNA sequences for the whole patient group indicated 121 different functional variants. After association analyses of 31 selected variants, the polymorphism c.1088A>G in the NR3C1 gene was linked with glucocorticoid resistance (p = 0.002), variant c.241+6A>G of the FKBP5 gene with glucocorticoid sensitivity (p = 0.040), and deletion c.306-7delT in the MAPK14 gene with an adverse therapeutic effect (dependency and resistance, p = 0.041) in ulcerative colitis patients. In Crohn’s disease, the change c.2685+49T>C of the ABCB1 gene related to glucocorticoid resistance (p = 0.034).

Conclusions

Among the 21 analyzed genes, four (NR3C1, FKBP5, MAPK14, and ABCB1) revealed a significant impact on the glucocorticoid treatment response, which could result in valuable pharmacogenetic biomarkers after being confirmed in other populations and in functional studies.
The role of motivation in learning foreign languages: towards a global self-identity – a literature analysis
Authors: Łockiewicz Marta
Published: May 2019

Multilingualism creates possibilities of personal growth, which influences the sense of self-esteem and self-identity. This paper reviews topics related to its impact on the activity of the individual. The relationship between L2 (understood both as a second and/or a foreign language, with a focus on learning English as a foreign language) linguistic achievement, motivation, intercul-tural competence, and the development of L2 identity depending on foreign language speaking skills are discussed. Some learn-ers aspire to acquire a “bicultural” identity, which involves 2 versions of the learner: 1) a usually English-speaking, globally involved one, and 2) a local L1-speaking self. Therefore, classroom instruction should include teaching materials focused on the L2 culture, and respect students’ aspirations for personal development through foreign language education. Moreover, the stu-dents should have control over their own learning, which could be achieved by promoting oracy, student-centred instruction and cooperative learning.
A content analysis of the high-intensity functional training literature: a look at the past and directions for the future
Authors: Feito Yuri , Brown Chris , Olmos Alex
Published: May 2019

Purpose

As a form of high-intensity functional training (HIFT), CrossFit training has grown in popularity over the last decade. The aim of this analysis is to provide researchers with a tool to further guide scientific inquiry in this area of research.

Methods

Even though systematic reviews and meta-analyses are preferred when analysing and synthesizing large numbers of scientific studies, the current literature on CrossFit training is scarce. Therefore, we used a content analysis approach to (1) review the literature on the topic; (2) synthesize the available research and examine the most popular issues, trends, and methodologies used; and (3) present an overall state of the literature and propose potential directions for future research.

Results

A total of 104 studies related to HIFT and CrossFit training were identified. These were published between 2007 and 2018 in 15 different countries, in 69 journals. The analysis referred to 6 main themes: (1) publication year, (2) country of research, (3) the peer-review journals publishing this type of research, (4) topical areas primarily studied, (5) research design, and (6) characteristics of individuals involved in this training modality.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first study to provide a content analysis of the available literature on HIFT and CrossFit training. The literature contributed significantly to the development of HIFT concepts, yet additional studies are needed to elucidate how HIFT/CrossFit training may differ from more traditional training programs. Hopefully, our study will facilitate collaboration among scholars interested in HIFT modalities.
Correlation of myomir-206 and proinflammatory cytokines (IL-16 and IL-17) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: ElAtta Amira Abo , Ali Yasser , Bassyouni Iman , Talaat Roba
Published: May 2019

Introduction

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a persistent autoimmune disease in which the activity of proinflammatory cytokines and the imbalance, related to the inflammatory process, between elements of bone tissue remodeling such as osteoclasts and osteoblasts play a key role in development of erosions and bone destruction. MicroRNAs are important regulators of skeletal remodeling and are involved in RA pathogenesis. Myomir-206 (miR-206) is unrivalled among the myomirRs, where it is expressed in skeletal muscle and either absent or minimally expressed in other tissues

Material and methods

This study was designed to analyze the miR-206 expression pattern in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) using quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction and its correlation with IL-16/IL-17 proinflammatory cytokines in two groups – 20 healthy individuals and 30 patients with RA.

Results

Elevated expression of miR-206 was observed in RA patients compared with healthy controls (p < 0.001). A significant increase in both IL-17 and IL-16 serum levels was found in the RA group (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05; respectively) compared to the control group. miR-206 expression level and IL-17 production were directly positively correlated (r = 0.491; p < 0.01). ROC analysis of miR-206 showed a cutoff value of 2.7 with 70% sensitivity, 85% specificity, and the area under the curve was 0.802 (p < 0.001) with the 95% confidence interval from 0. 676 to 0.927

Conclusions

Taken together, our results indicate the importance of miR-206 expression in patients with RA, as a potential new biomarker that affects bone loss/deformity and its collaborative role with proinflammatory cytokines such as IL-16 and IL-17 in RA bone metabolism. Particular interest should be given to further research to determine the contribution of expression of miR-206 in RA pathogenesis
De immuniteit van non-combattanten en irreguliere oorlogvoering
Authors: Ceulemans Carl
Published: May 2019

Non-combatant Immunity and Irregular Warfare

The Ethical Problem of Human Shields

One of the basic principles of the Just War Theory is that of non-combatant immunity. Basically, this principle is about protecting the civilian population against the violence of war. Now, despite the fact that this principle is firmly ingrained in our collective moral conscience and in international humanitarian law, the truth is that the civilian population has never been really insulated from the horrors of war. Quite on the contrary. This seems to be especially the case in so-called irregular warfare. In order to avoid military defeat against a stronger opponent, non-state armed movements very often use tactics that entail important risks for the civilian population. These irregular combatants hide and fight, for instance, among the civilian population or they intentionally blur the distinction between combatants and non-combatants. One of those tactics consists in using non-combatants as human shields. It goes without saying that this tactic presents a complex moral challenge for conventional troops. Should these human shields be treated like any other innocent bystanders, or should they be considered as partial combatants? And can the non-combatant immunity principle be of any moral assistance here? It is the objective of this article to shed more light on this issue. The argument will be developed in four stages. First, we will take a closer look at the principle of non-combatant immunity as it is understood within the Just War Theory. In order to see if and to what extent the principle of non-combatant immunity can be of any assistance in confronting human shields, we will conduct a first case-based analysis. Next, we aim to develop a moral continuum of paradigmatic cases of human shields, the purpose of which is to provide an instrument that will help us to formulate more nuanced moral appreciations. Finally, we will briefly look at the practical relevance of the proposed approach.
Beïnvloedt het gebruik van gewapende drones de kans op succes in de strijd tegen het terrorisme?
Authors: Dewyn Michaël
Published: May 2019

Does the use of armed drones influence the chance of success in the fight against terrorism?

In this article we analyse whether armed drones influence the chance of success in the fight against terrorism. The reasonable chance of success principle is a just war theory principle, focusing on the likelihood of reaching the war objectives. Without a reasonable chance of winning the war, it is better not to start it. This principle will first be explained. Next, the focus lies on those elements that influence the chance of success in the fight against terrorism when armed drones are used. Success in the fight against terrorism might be a diminishing of the terrorist threat or the elimination of the terrorist organisation. The drone attacks in the fight against terrorism very often result in systematic collateral damage, which is detrimental to the objective, because it forms a breeding ground for terrorist organisations. One of the reasons for this collateral damage is systematic risk transfers, which will be explained in greater detail in the article. In the third part, the focus lies on other potentially positive elements that influence the chance of success, in order to compensate for the collateral damage. Unfortunately, there is no consensus in this research domain about the consequences for the terrorist organisation of killing a terrorist leader. Besides, research reveals that it is more productive to concentrate on political participation and on policing (law enforcement and arrest). The article calls not for a complete ban of armed drones; after all, collateral damage could already be limited if the risk transfers were to be limited. To limit these transfers, men on the ground are needed, in order to intervene when human shields are used. Agents on the ground are needed to collect human intelligence in order to have reliable and complete intelligence and to investigate the intentions, to see who is prepared to negotiate and who to surrender. It would be an illusion to think that there is a reasonable chance of success in this fight with a party that takes zero physical risks.
A 10-year characterization of the Saharan Air Layer lidar ratio in the subtropical North Atlantic
Authors: Berjón Alberto , Barreto Africa , Hernández Yballa , Yela Margarita , Toledano Carlos , Cuevas Emilio
Published: May 2019

Abstract. Particle extinction-to-backscatter
ratio (lidar ratio) is a key parameter for a correct interpretation of
elastic lidar measurements. Of particular importance is the determination of
the lidar ratio of the Saharan Air Layer mineral dust transported into the
free troposphere over the North Atlantic region. The location of the two sun
photometer stations managed by the Izaña Atmospheric Research Centre
(IARC) on the island of Tenerife and a decade of available micropulse lidar
(MPL) data allow us to determine the lidar ratio under almost pure-dust
conditions. This result can be considered representative of the Saharan dust
transported westward over the North Atlantic in the subtropical belt. Three different methods have been used to calculate the lidar ratio in this
work: (1) using the inversion of sky radiance measurements from a sun–sky
photometer installed at the Izaña Observatory (2373 m a.s.l.) under
free-troposphere conditions; (2) the one-layer method, a joint determination using
a micropulse lidar sited at the Santa Cruz de Tenerife sea-level station and
photometric information considering one layer of aerosol characterized by a
single lidar ratio; and (3) the two-layer method, a joint determination using the
micropulse lidar and photometric information considering two layers of
aerosol with two different lidar ratios. The one-layer method only uses data from
a co-located photometer at Santa Cruz de Tenerife, while the two-layer
conceptual approach incorporates photometric information at two heights from
the observatories of Izaña and Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The almost pure-dust
lidar ratio retrieval from the sun–sky photometer and from the two-layer
method give similar results, with lidar ratios at 523 nm of 49 ± 6 and
50 ± 11 sr. These values obtained from a decade of data
records are coincident with other studies in the literature reporting
campaigns in the subtropical North Atlantic region. This result shows that
the two-layer method is an improved conceptual approach compared to the
single-layer approach, which matches the real lower-troposphere
structure well. The two-layer method is able to retrieve reliable lidar ratios and
therefore aerosol extinction profiles despite the inherent limitations of
the elastic lidar technique. We found a lack of correlation between lidar ratio and Ångström
exponent (α), which indicates that the dust lidar ratio can be
considered independent of dust size distribution in this region. This finding
suggests that dust is, under most atmospheric conditions, the predominant
aerosol in the North Atlantic free troposphere, which is in agreement with
previous studies conducted at the Izaña Observatory.