bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing the Quality of Reporting in Corporate Social Responsibility Guidance Documents: The Roles of ISO 26000, Global Reporting Initiative and CSR‐Sustainability Monitor
Authors: Sethi S. Prakash , Rovenpor Janet L. , Demir Mert
Published: June 2017

The intent of this article is to review the phenomenal growth of Corporate Social Responsibility reports published by large corporations around the world. The reports provide companies with an opportunity to inform large segments of society about the impacts of their business operations on the environmental, socio‐political, and governmental (regulatory) aspects of a society. The mostly voluntary nature of these reports, however, places the burden on the corporations creating them to (a) provide an adequate amount of information, (b) cover all the major issues that are relevant to the company and industry, and (c) provide measures of assurance as to the accuracy of information.

In this article, we compare and examine three institutional approaches that have played an important role toward improving the quality and consistency of these reports. The institutions involved are ISO 26000, Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)‐Sustainability Monitor. We intend to show their different approaches to guiding CSR reporting, and assess their relative strengths and limitations.
DNA origami applications in cancer therapy
Authors: Udomprasert Anuttara , Kangsamaksin Thaned
Published: June 2017

Due to the complexity and heterogeneity of cancer, the development of cancer diagnosis and therapy is still progressing, and a complete understanding of cancer biology remains elusive. Recently, cancer nanomedicine has gained much interest as a promising diagnostic and therapeutic strategy, as a wide range of nanomaterials possess unique physical properties that can render drug delivery systems safer and more effective. Also, targeted drug delivery and precision medicine have now become a new paradigm in cancer therapy. With nanocarriers, chemotherapeutic drugs could be directly delivered into target cancer cells, resulting in enhanced efficiency with fewer side‐effects. DNA, a biomolecule with molecular self‐assembly properties, has emerged as a versatile nanomaterial to construct multifunctional platforms; DNA nanostructures can be modified with functional groups to improve their utilities as biosensors or drug carriers. Such applications have become possible with the advent of the scaffolded DNA origami method. This breakthrough technique in structural DNA nanotechnology provides an easier and faster way to construct DNA nanostructures with various shapes. Several experiments proved that DNA origami nanostructures possess abilities to enhance efficacies of chemotherapy, reduce adverse side‐effects, and even circumvent drug resistance. Here, we highlight the principles of the DNA origami technique and its applications in cancer therapeutics and discuss current challenges and opportunities to improve cancer detection and targeted drug delivery.
Intra‐ and inter‐day reproducibility of low‐flow mediated constriction response in young adults
Authors: Harbin Michelle M. , Ostrem Joseph D. , Evanoff Nicholas G. , Kelly Aaron S. , Dengel Donald R.
Published: June 2017

Purpose

When assessing brachial endothelial function by reactive hyperaemia, stopping blood flow creates a period of low‐flow‐mediated constriction (L‐FMC). As little is known about how this parameter influences flow‐mediated vasodilation (FMD), the purpose of this study was to better understand this relationship and to determine the intra‐ and interday reproducibility of brachial L‐FMC.

Methods

Brachial L‐FMC and FMD were measured on 26 healthy, young adults (13 males, 13 females; 24·6 ± 2·7 years). Each participant had two assessments conducted on two separate visits, separated by a minimum of seven days. Brachial artery baseline diameter was imaged during rest. Continuous imaging of the artery was performed during the last 20 s of cuff‐occlusion to 180 s postcuff release. An L‐FMC was considered present if the relative change from pre‐occlusion baseline to L‐FMC artery diameter was less than −0·1%.

Results

Overall, there was a strong, positive correlation between increased brachial L‐FMC and blunted FMD (visit 1 test 1: r = 0·758, P<0·001; visit 1 test 2: r = 0·706, P<0·001; visit 2 test 1: r = 0·836, P<0·001; visit 2 test 2: r = 0·857, P<0·001). The reproducibility of intra‐ and interday L‐FMC diameter was intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) = 0·627, coefficient of variation (CV) = 54·4% and ICC = 0·734, CV = 43·5%, respectively.

Conclusion

Vasoconstriction to low‐flow conditions influences the subsequent maximal dilation during reactive hyperaemia. However, L‐FMC is variable as evidenced by the weak intra‐ and interday reproducibility of the measure. Further research should study brachial L‐FMC reproducibility among varying populations and the implications L‐FMC has on the interpretation of FMD results.
Evaluation of Order Fulfillment Options in Retail Supply Chains
Authors: Ishfaq Rafay , Raja Uzma
Published: June 2017

Retailers face a major operational challenge in fulfilling online orders while managing their traditional store‐based distribution processes. In this context, the following order fulfillment options available to retailers are considered: store‐facing distribution centers (DCs), dedicated order fulfillment facilities (DTC), retail stores, and direct‐fill by vendors. A framework for the online order fulfillment process is developed to evaluate these options using operational and financial measures collected from a large U.S. retailer. The study presents managerial insights regarding each fulfillment option and identifies operational and cost thresholds where a particular fulfillment option would be preferred. The results show that due to better order fulfillment efficiency, distribution facilities (DC and DTC) out‐perform fulfillment from stores and vendors. However, retailers can leverage their network of stores to overcome the shortfall in store‐based fulfillment costs by focusing on the order delivery process. The analysis presented in this article is useful for practice as it helps retailers identify options that best suit their order fulfillment strategy.
Contraction and elongation: Mechanics underlying cell boundary deformations in epithelial tissue
Authors: Hara Yusuke
Published: June 2017

The cell–cell boundaries of epithelial cells form cellular frameworks at the apical side of tissues. Deformations in these boundaries, for example, boundary contraction and elongation, and the associated forces form the mechanical basis of epithelial tissue morphogenesis. In this review, using data from recent Drosophila studies on cell boundary contraction and elongation, I provide an overview of the mechanism underlying the bi‐directional deformations in the epithelial cell boundary, that are sustained by biased accumulations of junctional and apico‐medial non‐muscle myosin II. Moreover, how the junctional tensions exist on cell boundaries in different boundary dynamics and morphologies are discussed. Finally, some future perspectives on how recent knowledge about single cell boundary‐level mechanics will contribute to our understanding of epithelial tissue morphogenesis are discussed.
Simulation of intra‐ciliary diffusion suggests a novel role of primary cilia as a cell‐signaling enhancer
Authors: Takao Daisuke , Kamimura Shinji
Published: June 2017

Besides the role to generate a fluid flow in the surrounding medium, eukaryotic cilia have a crucial function in sensing external signals such as chemical or mechanical stimuli. A large body of work has shown that cilia are frequently found in various types of sensory cells and are closely related to many regulatory mechanisms in differentiation and development. However, we do not yet have a definitive answer to the fundamental question, “why cilia?” It has been a long‐standing mystery why cells use cilia for sensing external signals. To shed light on this, we sought to describe the kinetics of signaling with theoretical approaches. Based on the results, here we propose a new role of cilia as a cell‐signaling enhancer. The enhancing effect comes from restricted volume for the free intra‐ciliary diffusion of molecules due to the cylindrical shape of cilia, which can facilitate quick accumulation of intracellular signaling molecules. Our simulations demonstrate that both the rate and amplitude of response in signal transduction depend on where the membrane receptors or channels are located along the ciliary shaft. In addition, the calculated transfer function of cilia regarded as a transmitter of external signals also suggests the properties of cilia as a signal enhancer. Since such unique composition of receptors and channels in cilia is found in various types of eukaryotic cells, signal enhancing is presumably one of the most essential and conserved roles of cilia.
The Annotated Luther: Updating His Essential Writings
Authors: Tunseth Scott
Published: June 2017

This article provides a summary of how The Annotated Luther series was conceived and developed to reach a broad readership for a new generation of students of Luther and the Reformation. Included is a brief history of the project and the editorial principles that have guided the translation of Luther's writings, as well as the supporting annotations, introductions, and images.
That All Might Proclaim: Continuing Luther's Legacy of Access
Authors: Hannan Shauna
Published: June 2017

This article proposes that the next century of Lutheranism focus on equipping the priesthood of all believers to proclaim. Access was one of Martin Luther's central reforms and continues to be a hallmark of the Lutheran church. However, access to the pulpit has not gone far enough. For the sake of the gospel, a robust movement toward homiletical education for the laity must accompany a movement toward lay preaching.
Predicting the prevalence of cerebral palsy by severity level in children aged 3 to 15 years across England and Wales by 2020
Authors: Glinianaia Svetlana V , Best Kate E , Lingam Raghu , Rankin Judith
Published: June 2017

Aim

To estimate the number of children living with cerebral palsy (CP) in England and Wales in 2013 by severity, and to extrapolate this figure to 2020.

Method

Data from the North of England Collaborative Cerebral Palsy Survey for births during the period 1991 to 2000 were restricted to individuals aged at or above 3 years to estimate the prevalence of CP and to calculate 15‐year survival by severity according to the number of severe impairments and lifestyle assessment score. The number of 3‐ to 15‐year‐olds with CP of different severity in England and Wales was estimated in 2013 and 2019 using actual and nationally projected births.

Results

Cumulative survival estimates up to the age of 16 years in children with CP differ significantly by severity, ranging between 97 per cent and 100 per cent for children with non‐severe CP, and between 64 per cent and 67 per cent for those with the most severe CP. By the end of 2013, the estimated number of children aged 3 to 15 years living with CP in England and Wales will be about 20 500 rising to approximately 22 100 by 2020, a 7.5 per cent increase.

Interpretation

Owing to an increasing population, the number of children living with CP in England and Wales will increase by 2020. This will have significant implications for health and social care service planning.
Niemann–Pick type C as a cause of progressive intellectual and neurological deterioration in childhood
Authors: Winstone Anne Marie , Stellitano Lesley Ann , Verity Christopher Michael
Published: June 2017

Aim

To describe the cases of Niemann–Pick type C (NP‐C) disease in a United Kingdom epidemiological study of progressive intellectual and neurological deterioration in childhood.

Method

Paediatricians notified cases via the British Paediatric Surveillance Unit between 1997 and 2015.

Results

Fifty‐three NP‐C patients were identified: 29 females, 24 males. Fifteen cases had a systemic presentation (neonatal jaundice and/or hepatosplenomegaly). Thirty‐eight had a neurological onset, the commonest presenting symptom being gait disturbance/ataxia (29 cases, 76%). Forty‐nine cases eventually had neurological problems, the commonest were school/cognitive difficulties (40, 82%), seizures (33, 67%), dysphagia (20, 41%), dysarthria (18, 37%), cataplexy (17, 35%), and visual deterioration (8, 16%); their commonest abnormal physical signs were vertical supranuclear gaze palsy (35, 71%), hypotonia (19, 39%) and hepatosplenomegaly (19, 39%). The median diagnostic delay in the 38 neurological onset cases was 3 years (range 0.3–12.8). Confirmatory investigations included filipin staining of skin fibroblasts (42 cases), bone marrow examination in 30 (the last in 2011), and increasingly DNA studies, mutations in NP‐C1 being found in 20 cases.

Interpretation

NP‐C should be considered in children with progressive neurological deterioration. Subtle neurological problems combined with a history of prolonged neonatal jaundice and/or hepatosplenomegaly may provide early evidence of the disease.
Prevention of hip displacement in children with cerebral palsy: a systematic review
Authors: Miller Stacey D , Juricic Maria , Hesketh Kim , Mclean Lynore , Magnuson Sonja , Gasior Sherylin , Schaeffer Emily , O'donnell Maureen , Mulpuri Kishore
Published: June 2017

Aim

To conduct a systematic review and evaluate the quality of evidence for interventions to prevent hip displacement in children with cerebral palsy (CP).

Method

A systematic review was performed using American Academy of Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine (AACPDM) and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) methodology. Searches were completed in seven electronic databases. Studies were included if participants hadCPand the effectiveness of the intervention was reported using a radiological measure. Results of orthopaedic surgical interventions were excluded.

Results

Twenty‐four studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria (4 botulinum neurotoxin A; 2 botulinum neurotoxin A and bracing; 1 complementary and alternative medicine; 1 intrathecal baclofen; 1 obturator nerve block; 8 positioning; 7 selective dorsal rhizotomy). There was significant variability in treatment dosages, participant characteristics, and duration of follow‐up among the studies. Overall, the level of evidence was low. No intervention in this review demonstrated a large treatment effect on hip displacement.

Interpretation

The level and quality of evidence for all interventions aimed at slowing or preventing hip displacement is low. There is currently insufficient evidence to support or refute the use of the identified interventions to prevent hip displacement or dislocation in children and young people withCP.

What this paper adds

High‐quality evidence on prevention of hip displacement is lacking.

No recommendations can be made for preventing hip displacement in children with cerebral palsy because of poor‐quality evidence.

High‐quality, prospective, longitudinal studies investigating the impact of interventions on hip displacement are required.
Effects of dietary carbohydrate on 1,5‐anhydroglucitol in a population without diabetes: results from the OmniCarb trial
Authors: Juraschek S. P. , Miller E. R. , Appel L. J. , Christenson R. H. , Sacks F. M. , Selvin E.
Published: June 2017

Aims

To determine the effects of dietary changes in amount and type of carbohydrate on 1,5‐anhydroglucitol levels.

Methods

We conducted an ancillary study to a completed, randomized clinical trial in overweight and obese adults without diabetes (N=159). Using a crossover design, participants were fed each one of four diets in turn for 5 weeks, with 2‐week washout periods inbetween. The four diets were: high glycaemic index (≥65) with high proportion of carbohydrate (58% kcal) (GC); low glycaemic index (GI≤45) with low proportion of carbohydrate (40% kcal) (gc); low glycaemic index with high proportion of carbohydrate (gC); and high glycaemic index with low proportion of carbohydrate (Gc). Plasma 1,5‐anhydroglucitol levels were measured at baseline and after each feeding period.

Results

At baseline, participants had a mean age of 53 years (53% women, 52% non‐Hispanic black, 50% obese). Their mean fasting glucose and 1,5‐anhydroglucitol levels were 97 mg/dl (5.4 mmol/l) and 18.6 μg/mL (113.3 μmol/l), respectively. Compared with baseline, each of the four diets reduced 1,5‐anhydroglucitol by a range of –2.4 to –3.7 μg/mL (–14.6 to –22.5 μmol/l); all P <0.001). Reducing either glycaemic index or proportion of carbohydrate lowered 1,5‐anhydroglucitol levels. These effects were additive, such that reducing both glycaemic index and proportion of carbohydrates decreased 1,5‐anhydroglucitol by –1.31 μg/mL [95% CI: –1.63, –0.99; P<0.001 or –8.0 (–9.9, –6.0) μmol/l]. Furthermore, these effects were confirmed in a subgroup of participants with 12‐h glucose monitoring and no documented hyperglycaemia (fasting glucose <160 mg/dl or 8.9 mmol/l).

Conclusions

Both type and amount of dietary carbohydrate affect 1,5‐anhydroglucitol plasma concentrations in adults without diabetes. This finding contradicts the long‐standing notion that 1,5‐anhydroglucitol remains at constant concentrations in the blood in the absence of hyperglycaemic excursions. (Clinical trials registry number: NCT00051350)
Cardiac involvements in hypereosinophilia‐associated syndrome: Case reports and a little review of the literature
Authors: Jin Xuanyi , Ma Chunyan , Liu Shuang , Guan Zhengyu , Wang Yonghuai , Yang Jun
Published: June 2017

Hypereosinophilia‐associated syndrome is a rare group of systemic diseases without certain underlying causes. Hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES) and eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA), formerly known as Churg–Strauss syndrome (CSS), are initial considerations, when underlying causes remains unexplained despite of complete evaluation of hypereosinophilia. In this study, we report two rare cases, one case of HES with Loeffler endocarditis, and the other one of EGPA with restrictive cardiomyopathy mimicking myocardial infarction, to further address differential chief cardiac manifestations between HES and EGPA. Key roles of echocardiography played in detection of cardiac involvements, diagnosis, and prognosis prediction are also highlighted.
Automatic detection of end‐diastolic and end‐systolic frames in 2D echocardiography
Authors: Zolgharni Massoud , Negoita Madalina , Dhutia Niti M. , Mielewczik Michael , Manoharan Karikaran , Sohaib S. M. Afzal , Finegold Judith A. , Sacchi Stefania , Cole Graham D. , Francis Darrel P.
Published: June 2017

Background

Correctly selecting the end‐diastolic and end‐systolic frames on a 2D echocardiogram is important and challenging, for both human experts and automated algorithms. Manual selection is time‐consuming and subject to uncertainty, and may affect the results obtained, especially for advanced measurements such as myocardial strain.

Methods and Results

We developed and evaluated algorithms which can automatically extract global and regional cardiac velocity, and identify end‐diastolic and end‐systolic frames. We acquired apical four‐chamber 2D echocardiographic video recordings, each at least 10 heartbeats long, acquired twice at frame rates of 52 and 79 frames/s from 19 patients, yielding 38 recordings. Five experienced echocardiographers independently marked end‐systolic and end‐diastolic frames for the first 10 heartbeats of each recording. The automated algorithm also did this. Using the average of time points identified by five human operators as the reference gold standard, the individual operators had a root mean square difference from that gold standard of 46.5 ms. The algorithm had a root mean square difference from the human gold standard of 40.5 ms (P<.0001). Put another way, the algorithm‐identified time point was an outlier in 122/564 heartbeats (21.6%), whereas the average human operator was an outlier in 254/564 heartbeats (45%).

Conclusion

An automated algorithm can identify the end‐systolic and end‐diastolic frames with performance indistinguishable from that of human experts. This saves staff time, which could therefore be invested in assessing more beats, and reduces uncertainty about the reliability of the choice of frame.
Host plant and competitor identity matter in genotype × genotype × environment interactions between vetch and pea aphids
Authors: KHUDR MOUHAMMAD SHADI , GUILBAUD CAMILLE S. E. , PREZIOSI RICHARD F.
Published: June 2017

1. Selection does not only operate in a genotype (G) × environment (E) context, but can also be modulated by the activities of organisms interacting with their environment (G × G × E).

2. The influences of aphid clonal identity and host plant (Vicia faba) intraspecific genetic variation on the performance of five genotypes of pea aphid (Acyrthosiphon pisum) were investigated – with and without interaction with a competing heterospecific clone of vetch aphid (Megoura viciae) – across three cultivars of V. faba.

3. Pea aphid performance in the presence of a competing vetch aphid clone (G × G × E) compared with the absence of competition (G × E) revealed strong context‐dependent, genotype‐specific shifts in performance, influenced by plant cultivar, competitor presence and their interaction.

4. The performance of vetch aphid in competition with each pea aphid clone was also compared. Here, competitor's genotype and abundance underlay a remarkably varied response by vetch aphid across interactions.

5. The study shows that aphid genotypes exhibit a varying degree of risk spreading, contingent on competitor identity and the patterns of aggregation across three plant cultivars. Owing to feedback loops between species activities and selective forces acting on them, our findings suggest that there are context‐dependent responses by competitors that are shaped via the interplay of the co‐occurring species and their biotic environment.

6. This work highlights the complexity of species interactions and the importance of investigating reciprocity between competition and intraspecific genetic variation. A better understanding of the eco‐evolutionary interactions between phloem‐feeding insects and their host plants can potentially be used to enhance crop protection and pest control.
Autism and The Ethics of Care: A Phenomenological Investigation Into the Contagion of Nothing
Authors: Mattingly Cheryl
Published: June 2017

This article investigates the social contagion of autism from a phenomenological perspective. It asks: Can a phenomenological approach, rather than merely illustrating the typologies revealed by constructionist and political economic approaches,generate new categoriesbecause it insists on a different unit of analysis rooted in a first‐person perspective? To answer this, the article contrasts a third‐person account of autism as an epidemic of representation and a phenomenological account. Drawing upon philosophical phenomenology (Gadamer in particular), it broadly outlines what is at stake in the phenomenological insistence on the primacy of the first‐person perspective. Turning to an ethnographic case, it examines how the category of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), as it is lived by one family, poses a threat far more pernicious than a third‐person exploration of ASD might suggest. As a lived experience, it becomes linked to other epidemics and life conditions, emerging as the ominous category “becoming nothing.”
Workplace Predictors of Parenting Educators’ Technology Acceptance Attitudes
Authors: Walker Susan K. , Hong Seonghee
Published: June 2017

The purpose of this study was to examine technology use by licensed parenting educators and to explore workplace conditions as influences on the educators’ technology acceptance attitudes. The study adapted the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) as a theoretical framework and proposed 10 hypotheses to be examined. Responses to an online survey (N = 279) indicated that information search and email were used most frequently. In contrast, social media and online learning platforms were infrequently used. Structural equation modeling revealed that technology attitudes were directly related to Perceived Ease of Use and Perceived Usefulness of technology. Also, Workplace Encouragement and Workplace Infrastructure indirectly influenced acceptance attitudes as mediated by Perceived Usefulness and Perceived Ease of Use, respectively. The results suggest that parenting educators’ adoption of technology needs to be supported by a workplace culture that promotes and provides resources for technology use.
Housing, home ownership and the governance of ageing
Authors: Power Emma R
Published: June 2017

‘Active ageing’ has become core to ageing policy internationally. This paper argues that housing, and specifically home purchase, is fundamental to the governance of active ageing in liberal welfare states such as Australia, the UK, the US and Canada. Specifically, the paper expands understanding of how neoliberally inflected active ageing agendas are advanced in conjunction with housing consumption, and builds new knowledge of the governance of asset‐based welfare, the investor subject, and housing marginality, showing how these practices and identities are governed temporally through ideas about what it means to age well. Arguments are advanced through analysis of Australian government ageing and age‐connected housing strategies in the 20 years to 2015. These strategies construct three key connections between housing and ageing. First, housing is framed as a base (or location) for active ageing, with secure, appropriate and affordable housing depicted as enabling participation. Second, home ownership is positioned as an individual responsibility. In this framing home ownership becomes a ‘choice’ and means through which individuals can demonstrate responsibility by self‐insuring against the fiscal risks of older age. Third, home ownership is connected to the activation of ideal ageing identities by enabling home owners as productive agers (the home as a form of income) and active consumers (home as a resource to fund prudential and age‐defying consumption in older age). Significantly, in framing home ownership as an individual responsibility and choice the importance of structural factors shaping housing access are downplayed. This is a question of key geographical significance, foregrounding an interlinked agenda of not just how, but where, ageing should take place.
Whitening dentifrice and tooth surface discoloration—a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Soeteman GD , Valkenburg C , Van der Weijden GA , Van Loveren C , Bakker EWP , Slot DE
Published: June 2017

Objective

The aim of this systematic review was to assess the effect of a whitening dentifrice (WDF) relative to a regular dentifrice (RDF) on the reduction of natural extrinsic tooth surface discoloration (ETD).

Materials and methods

The MEDLINE‐PubMed, Cochrane‐CENTRAL and EBSCO‐Dentistry and Oral Sciences databases were searched, up to April 2017. The inclusion criteria were as follows:(randomized)controlled clinical trials, healthy subjects ≥18 years of age, studies comparing WDF with RDF, a follow‐up period of at least 6 weeks and studies scoring ETD as the stain area/extent, stain intensity or a composite score. Studies using an induced staining model were excluded.

Results

Independent screening of 851 unique papers resulted in 21 eligible publications, which included 32 comparisons. The descriptive analysis illustrated that the majority of comparisons showed a significant effect on ETD, in favour of WDF over RDF. The meta‐analysis substantiated this observation and revealed that the difference of means (diffM) comparing WDF and RDF was a reduction for stain area of −0.44 [(95% CI: −0.55; −0.339) (P<.00001)] according to the original Lobene Stain Index; this result is in favour of the WDF. For the modified Lobene Stain Index, the diffM was −0.41 [(95% CI: −0.71; −0.10) (P=.009)]. For overall stain intensity, the diffM was −0.35 [(95% CI: −0.44; −0.25) (P<.00001)], and the composite score was −0.39 [(95% CI: −0.57; −0.21) (P<.0001)] and −0.54 [(95% CI: −0.66; −0.43) (P<.00001)]. Subgroup analysis differentiating between products that contained added chemical antidiscoloration agents showed a similar pattern.

Conclusion

In this review, nearly all dentifrices that are specifically formulated for tooth whitening were shown to have a beneficial effect in reducing ETD, irrespective of whether or not a chemical discoloration agent was added.
The perception–production link revisited: The case of Japanese learners' English /ɹ/ performance
Authors: Saito Kazuya , van Poeteren Kim
Published: June 2017

The current study re‐examines how second language speech perception and production are related in the context of the acquisition of English /ɹ/ by 45 adult Japanese learners with various proficiency levels. Perception was evaluated using a two‐alternative forced choice identification task, while pronunciation performance was assessed via multiple task/analysis contexts. Overall, the participants' perception performance was correlated with the global qualities (accuracy, intelligibility) of their production ability both at controlled and spontaneous speech levels. In light of the results of acoustic analyses, however, their perception ability was only significantly predictive of their redeployment of existing articulatory parameters (i.e., lower F2 for the rate and degree of tongue retraction), not the acquisition of new articulatory parameters (i.e., lower F3 for labial, palatal, and pharyngeal constrictions).
Structural origin of room temperature poling enhanced piezoelectricity in modified Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3‐30%PbTiO3 crystals
Authors: Wang Ding , Yuan Guoliang , Luo Haosu , Li Jiefang , Viehland Dwight , Wang Yaojin
Published: June 2017

The piezoelectric properties of [110]‐oriented Mn‐doped Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3‐30%PbTiO3 single crystals was found to be enhanced by poling at room temperature, relative to traditional poling on field‐cooling (FC). High‐resolution x‐ray diffraction data revealed a phase transition sequence of cubic→tetragonal→ orthorhombic (O)→monoclinic B‐type (MB) on field‐cooling with a phase coexistence of single domain O and MB at 300 K in the FC state; whereas poling at room temperature revealed a MB single phase. Accordingly, the structural origin of the piezoelectricity enhancement on poling at room temperature is attributed to a pure MB phase. It is probable, in the FC state, that field‐cooling results in defect dipole migration, which then acts to stabilize regions of the O phase on cooling into the MB one.
Stability and electrical properties of MoSi2‐ and WSi2‐oxide electroconductive composites
Authors: Yakaboylu Gunes A. , Pillai Rajalekshmi C. , Sabolsky Katarzyna , Sabolsky Edward M.
Published: June 2017

MoSi2‐ and WSi2‐based electroconductive ceramic composites were fabricated using 40‐80 vol% fine‐ and coarse‐Al2O3, and ZrO2 particles (refractory oxides) after sintering in argon. Their chemical and thermal stability was tested between 1400°C‐1600°C for up to 48 hours. X‐ray diffraction analysis showed the formation of secondary 5‐3 metal silicide (Mo5Si3, W5Si3) and silica phases on the grain boundaries and surface. The fraction of the W5Si3 (11.4‐38.8 vol%) was significantly higher than that of the Mo5Si3 (3.3‐7.3 vol%) in the composites after annealing at 1400°C for 48 hours. The rates of grain growth in the composites (0.013‐0.023 μm/h) were highly decreased by a grain‐boundary pinning effect. This effect was relatively better with the addition of the coarse‐grained oxides due to their more homogeneous distribution throughout the microstructure. The 20–80 vol% MoSi2‐Al2O3 (fine‐grained) composite exhibited an electrical conductivity of 8.8 S/cm at 900°C. At the 60 vol% silicide content, MoSi2–Al2O3 (coarse‐grained) and WSi2–Al2O3 (fine‐grained) showed higher electrical conductivity (126‐128 S/cm) at 900°C. The density, porosity level, particle distribution, intrinsic conductivity of silicide phase, particle size, and fraction of the secondary 5‐3 silicide phase highly influenced their electrical properties.
Short crack fracture toughness in (1−x)(Na1/2Bi1/2)TiO3–xBaTiO3 relaxor ferroelectrics
Authors: Denkhaus Sarah Marie , Vögler Malte , Novak Nikola , Rödel Jürgen
Published: June 2017

The fracture toughness in the lead‐free relaxor ferroelectric (1−x)(Na1/2Bi1/2)TiO3–xBaTiO3 was investigated utilizing the surface crack in flexure method. To allow a comprehensive assessment, unpoled, and poled samples from the rhombohedral, the tetragonal, and the morphotropic phase regime were considered. It was found that the fracture toughness is up to 23% higher for the poled state. In order to cover the transition from ferroelectric to relaxor phase, the temperature dependence of 0.97(Na1/2Bi1/2)TiO3–0.03BaTiO3 was studied as well. Fracture toughness values of up to 2 MPam1/2 were determined, which are considerably above data for lead zirconate titanate materials. The results are rationalized using a simple transformation toughening‐type model in conjunction with investigations into the ferroelastic behavior. The presented model can be applied without fitting parameters but utilizes measurements of the coercive stress and remanent strain as well as the elastic modulus.
Characterization of ZrN, ZrO2 and β′–Zr7O11N2 nanoparticles synthesized by pulsed wire discharge
Authors: Lam Do Van , Suematsu Hisayuki , Ogawa Toru
Published: June 2017

Nanoparticles of ZrN, ZrO2 and β′–Zr7O11N2 were synthesized by pulsed wire discharge using Zr wire in various O2 and N2 gas mixtures with different oxygen partial pressures of up to 40 kPa and a total pressure of 100 kPa. The syntheses were carried out at a relative energy ratio (K) of 6.4 which was defined by a charged energy in a capacitor of the synthesis apparatus divided by the evaporation energy of the Zr wire. Morphology and phase analyses were carried out on these nanoparticles by X‐ray diffraction and field‐emission transmission electron microscopy. ZrN and Zr2N were observed in a sample synthesized in 100% N2 gas while with increasing the O2 from 1% of total pressure, formation of β′–Zr7O11N2 and ZrO2 was seen. By bright field image observation, electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) and selected area electron‐diffraction analyses, nanoparticles of ZrN, β′–Zr7O11N2 and ZrO2 were separately characterized. In these syntheses, nanoparticles of β′–Zr7O11N2 existed in much smaller size and different shape than the ordinary spherical nanoparticles of ZrN and ZrO2. In gas mixtures where O2 contents were larger than 22% (dry air composition), ZrN was not detected or detected with just a fractional amount compared to the two major phases of β′‐Zr7O11N2 and ZrO2. EELS data for ZrN and β′–Zr7O11N2 were obtained and compared by separated analyses of nanoparticles of these phases. From these data, it was concluded that, in nuclear accidents, small amount of particles can indicate the accident atmosphere around the Zr alloys fuel cladding.
MEMO: an mHealth intervention to prevent the onset of depression in adolescents: a double‐blind, randomised, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Whittaker Robyn , Stasiak Karolina , McDowell Heather , Doherty Iain , Shepherd Matthew , Chua Shireen , Dorey Enid , Parag Varsha , Ameratunga Shanthi , Rodgers Anthony , Merry Sally
Published: June 2017

Background

Depression often starts in adolescence making it an ideal time to intervene. We developed a universal cognitive behavioural therapy‐based programme (MEMO CBT) to be delivered via multimedia mobile phone messages for teens.

Methods

We conducted a prospective multicentre, randomised, placebo‐controlled superiority trial in 15 high schools in Auckland, New Zealand, comparing MEMO CBT with a control programme [MEMO control] matched for intensity and type of message but with alternative content not targeting depression. The primary outcome was the change in score on the Children's Depression Rating Scale‐Revised from baseline to 12 months. Secondary outcomes included the change in scores in the self‐reported Reynold's Adolescent Depression Rating Scale‐Second Edition, the Moods and Feelings Questionnaire, suicidal ideation using selected items from the Youth Risk Behaviour Survey, the Pediatric Quality of Life questionnaire, 12‐month period prevalence of the diagnosis of depressive disorder using the Kiddie‐Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia, and students' ratings of their satisfaction with the programme.

Results

Eight hundred and fifty‐five students (13–17 years old, mean 14.3 years) were randomly assigned to MEMO CBT (426) or to MEMO Control (429). Participants (68% female) had a mean CDRS‐R at baseline of 21.5 (SD: 5). Overall 394 (93%) from the intervention group and 392 (91%) from the control group were followed up at 12 months. At the end of the intervention (approximately 9 weeks) the mean CDRS‐R scores were 20.8 in the intervention group versus 20.4 in the control group, and at 12 months they were 22.4 versus 22.4 (p value for difference in change from baseline = 0.3). There was no obvious association between the amount of the intervention viewed by participants and outcomes.

Conclusions

There was no evidence of benefit from the mobile phone CBT intervention compared with a control programme. Universal depression prevention remains a challenge.
The effect of smartphone addiction on hand joints in psoriatic patients: an ultrasound‐based study
Authors: Megna M. , Gisonni P. , Napolitano M. , Orabona G. Dell'Aversano , Patruno C. , Ayala F. , Balato N.
Published: June 2017

Background

Distal interphalangeal (DIP) arthritis is a frequent form of psoriatic arthritis being often linked to nail psoriasis. Modern society is characterized by overuse of smartphones. Indeed, literature has recently focalized on research into smartphone addiction and health‐related problems.

Objectives

As smartphone addiction is able to determine overuse and repeated movements of DIP joints and nails, the aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of smartphone use on hand joints of young psoriatic patients.

Methods

An observational study involving four different groups such as non‐smartphone‐addicted (SA) psoriatic patients, SA psoriatic patients, non‐SA controls and SA controls was performed. Each subject underwent an ultrasound examination of both hands by three independent and blinded to group assignment radiologists. A specific score was used to evaluate the inflammatory state of the analysed joints.

Results

The total ultrasound score was statistically significantly higher in SA controls respect to non‐SA controls (3.4 vs. 1.4; P < 0.05) as well as in SA psoriasis patients compared to non‐SA psoriatic subjects (15.2 vs. 6.7; P < 0.01). Higher mean of ultrasound score was found for left hand in controls (both SA or not) and for right hand in psoriatic subjects (both SA or not), however without reaching statistical significance.

Conclusions

Smartphone overuse was found to be linked with higher signs of inflammation of musculoskeletal structures of hands joints in both psoriasis and controls through ultrasound examination. Therefore, smartphone overuse may be a factor which facilitate or speed up the possible development of psoriatic arthritis.
Omalizumab substantially improves dermatology‐related quality of life in patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria
Authors: Finlay A.Y. , Kaplan A.P. , Beck L.A. , Antonova E.N. , Balp M.‐M. , Zazzali J. , Khalil S. , Maurer M.
Published: June 2017

Background

Chronic spontaneous/idiopathic urticaria (CSU/CIU) has substantial detrimental effects on health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) with an effect comparable to or worse than many other skin diseases.

Objective

To assess the effect of omalizumab on CSU patients' HRQoL, measured by the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) in three phase III studies ASTERIA I, ASTERIA II and GLACIAL.

Methods

A post hoc analysis examined changes in DLQI scores, distribution of patients across DLQI bands and the proportion reaching minimal clinically important difference (MCID) following omalizumab vs. placebo.

Results

Omalizumab 300 mg significantly improved total DLQI scores vs. placebo, with a mean decrease from baseline to week 12 of −10.3 vs. −6.1 (P < 0.0001) in ASTERIA I, −10.2 vs. −6.1 (P = 0.0004) in ASTERIA II and −9.7 vs. −5.1 (P < 0.0001) in GLACIAL. A significant shift from high disease impact on life at baseline towards less impact at week 12 was seen with omalizumab 300 mg vs. placebo (P < 0.001; all studies). The proportion of patients where change in mean total DLQI score from baseline to week 12 reached an MCID of ≥4 was 74.1%, 76.0% and 77.2% in ASTERIA I, II and GLACIAL, respectively (P < 0.01; all studies).

Limitations

Maximum duration of omalizumab treatment was 24 weeks.

Conclusion

This additional analysis assessed the impact of CSU and benefit of treatment with omalizumab by exploring different facets of DLQI data by treatment arm at multiple assessment points. The original aspects of analysis included applying the concept of the recently validated score for the MCID of the DLQI, changes in DLQI domain scores and in the distribution of subjects based on validated total DLQI score bands. It showed consistently that omalizumab provides significant and clinically relevant improvements in many aspects of HRQoL that are important to patients with CSU. These results contribute to a better understanding of the impact of CSU and its treatment on patients and can support clinical decision‐making in routine medical practice.
Beneficial effects of Rifaximin in post‐infectious irritable bowel syndrome mouse model beyond gut microbiota
Authors: Jin Yu , Ren Xiaoyang , Li Gangping , Li Ying , Zhang Lei , Wang Huan , Qian Wei , Hou Xiaohua
Published: June 2017

Background and Aims

Rifaximin is a minimally absorbed antibiotic, which has shown efficacy in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients. However, the mechanism on how it effects in IBS is still incompletely defined. In this study, Trichinella spiralis‐infected post‐infectious (PI) IBS mouse model was used, to assess the action of rifaximin on visceral hypersensitivity, barrier function, gut inflammation, and microbiota.

Methods

Post‐infectious IBS model was established by T. spiralis infection in mice. Rifaximin were administered to PI‐IBS mice for seven consecutive days. The abdominal withdrawal reflex and threshold of colorectal distention were employed to evaluate visceral sensitivity. Smooth muscle contractile response was recorded in the organ bath. Intestinal permeability was measured by Ussing chamber. Expression of tight junction protein and cytokines were measured by Western blotting. Ilumina miseq platform was used to analyze bacterial 16S ribosomal RNA.

Results

Post‐infectious IBS mice treated with rifaximin exhibited decreased abdominal withdrawal reflex score, increased threshold, reduced contractile response, and intestinal permeability. Rifaximin also suppressed the expression of interleukin‐12 and interleukin‐17 and promoted the expression of the major tight junction protein occludin. Furthermore, rifaximin did not change the composition and diversity, and the study reavealed that rifaximin had a tiny effect on the relative abundance of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium in this PI‐IBS model.

Conclusions

Rifaximin alleviated visceral hypersensitivity, recovered intestinal barrier function, and inhibited low‐grade inflammation in colon and ileum of PI‐IBS mouse model. Moreover, rifaximin exerts anti‐inflammatory effects with only a minimal effect on the overall composition and diversity of the gut microbiota in this model.
Simultaneous Multislice–Based 5‐Minute Lumbar Spine MRI Protocol: Initial Experience in a Clinical Setting
Authors: Longo Maria G. , Fagundes Joana , Huang Susie , Mehan William , Witzel Thomas , Bhat Himanshu , Heberlein Keith , Rosen Bruce R. , Rosenthal Daniel , Gonzalez Ramon G. , Schaefer Pamela W. , Rapalino Otto
Published: June 2017

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Previous studies have used parallel imaging (PI) techniques to decrease spine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) protocol acquisition times. Recently developed MRI sequences allow even faster acquisitions. Our purpose was to develop a lumbar spine MRI protocol using PI with GRAPPA (generalized autocalibrating partially parallel acquisition) and a simultaneous multislice (SMS)–based sequence and to evaluate its diagnostic performance compared to a standard lumbar spine MRI protocol.

METHODS

Ten patients were scanned in a 3‐Tesla scanner (MAGNETOM Skyra, Siemens Healthcare). Each patient was imaged using a standard protocol and an optimized fast protocol acquiring the same contrasts and planes. The fast protocol included sagittal T1, T2, and fat suppressed T2 sequences accelerated with GRAPPA and an SMS‐based axial T2‐weighted sequence using a high‐density spine coil (Siemens MR, 30 channel spine). Two blinded neuroradiologists independently assessed image quality and diagnostic accuracy for clinically relevant imaging findings.

RESULTS

The fast protocol acquisition time was 5:28 minutes, compared with 16:30 minutes for the standard protocol. Both protocols had a similar performance for definition of anatomical structures, diagnostic quality, and identification of clinically relevant imaging findings. There were more artifacts in the SMS Turbo Spin Echo (P = .014) sequence without compromising diagnostic performance. Artifacts in the remaining non‐SMS sequences were similar in both protocols (P > .180). The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the 5‐minute protocol were 92.3%, 100.0%, and 99.6%, respectively, for the clinically relevant findings (P = 1.0, interrater agreement .57).

CONCLUSIONS

A 5‐minute SMS‐based MRI protocol for lumbar spine imaging is feasible and can be achieved without significant impact in the overall diagnostic quality.
Recurrent episodes of peripheral facial nerve palsy and fissured tongue
Authors: Giudici Nicola , Bianchetti Mario G , Ramelli Gian Paolo , Milani Gregorio P
Published: June 2017

See Answer
IL-17A blockade or deficiency does not affect progressive renal fibrosis following renal ischaemia reperfusion injury in mice
Authors: Thorenz Anja , Völker Nicole , Bräsen Jan Hinrich , Chen Rongjun , Jang Mi-Sun , Rong Song , Haller Hermann , Kirsch Torsten , Vieten Gertrud , Klemann Christian , Gueler Faikah
Published: June 2017

Objectives

IL-17A contributes to acute kidney injury and fibrosis. Therefore, we asked whether IL-17A deficiency or treatment with a IL-17A blocking antibody impacts severe renal ischaemia reperfusion injury (IRI) and the progression to chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Methods

IL-17A-deficient and wild-type (WT) mice underwent transient unilateral renal pedicle clamping for 45 min to induce IRI and subsequent renal fibrosis. Furthermore, a neutralizing anti-IL-17A antibody (mAb) was injected into WT mice before induction of renal IRI intravenously. On days 1, 7 and 21, inflammation, fibrosis, leukocyte infiltration and pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic cytokine expression were assessed in kidneys using histology, qPCR and flow cytometry.

Key findings

IL-17A was significantly increased after renal IRI in WT kidneys. Levels of pro-inflammatory (MCP-1) cytokine and pro-fibrotic (collagen 1α1, fibronectin) transcripts were similar in the experimental groups studied. IL-17A deficiency had no effect on renal T-cell influx or the number, inflammatory phenotype, or spatial distribution of macrophages. Similarly, administration of an IL-17A blocking antibody did not attenuate inflammation.

Conclusions

Despite the effects of IL-17 in other inflammation models, neither genetic IL-17A deficiency nor treatment with an IL-17A blocking antibody attenuated IRI and progression to CKD. We conclude that in severe renal IRI IL-17A is not crucially involved in disease progression.