bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exact Solutions of Fragmentation Equations with General Fragmentation Rates and Separable Particles Distribution Kernels
Authors: Oukouomi Noutchie S. C. , Doungmo Goufo E. F.
Published: July 2014

We make use of Laplace transform techniques and the method of characteristics to solve fragmentation equations explicitly. Our result is a breakthrough in the analysis of pure fragmentation equations as this is the first instance where an exact solution is provided for the fragmentation evolution equation with general fragmentation rates. This paper is the key for resolving most of the open problems in fragmentation theory including “shattering” and the sudden appearance of infinitely many particles in some systems with initial finite particles number.
Automated Tissue Classification Framework for Reproducible Chronic Wound Assessment
Authors: Mukherjee Rashmi , Manohar Dhiraj Dhane , Das Dev Kumar , Achar Arun , Mitra Analava , Chakraborty Chandan
Published: July 2014

The aim of this paper was to develop a computer assisted tissue classification (granulation, necrotic, and slough) scheme for chronic wound (CW) evaluation using medical image processing and statistical machine learning techniques. The red-green-blue (RGB) wound images grabbed by normal digital camera were first transformed intoHSI(hue, saturation, and intensity) color space and subsequently the “S” component ofHSIcolor channels was selected as it provided higher contrast. Wound areas from 6 different types of CW were segmented from whole images using fuzzy divergence based thresholding by minimizing edge ambiguity. A set of color and textural features describing granulation, necrotic, and slough tissues in the segmented wound area were extracted using various mathematical techniques. Finally, statistical learning algorithms, namely, Bayesian classification and support vector machine (SVM), were trained and tested for wound tissue classification in different CW images. The performance of the wound area segmentation protocol was further validated by ground truth images labeled by clinical experts. It was observed that SVM with 3rd order polynomial kernel provided the highest accuracies, that is, 86.94%, 90.47%, and 75.53%, for classifying granulation, slough, and necrotic tissues, respectively. The proposed automated tissue classification technique achieved the highest overall accuracy, that is, 87.61%, with highest kappa statistic value (0.793).
Differential Responses of Net Ecosystem Exchange of Carbon Dioxide to Light and Temperature between Spring and Neap Tides in Subtropical Mangrove Forests
Authors: Li Qing , Lu Weizhi , Chen Hui , Luo Yiqi , Lin Guanghui
Published: July 2014

The eddy flux data with field records of tidal water inundation depths of the year 2010 from two mangroves forests in southern China were analyzed to investigate the tidal effect on mangrove carbon cycle. We compared the net ecosystem exchange (NEE) and its responses to light and temperature, respectively, between spring tide and neap tide inundation periods. For the most time of the year 2010, higher daytime NEE values were found during spring tides than during neap tides at both study sites. Regression analysis of daytime NEE to photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) using the Landsberg model showed increased sensitivity of NEE to PAR with higher maximum photosynthetic rate during spring tides than neap tides. In contrast, the light compensation points acquired from the regression function of the Landsberg model were smaller during spring tides than neap tides in most months. The dependence of nighttime NEE on soil temperature was lower under spring tide than under neap tides. All these results above indicated that ecosystem carbon uptake rates of mangrove forests were strengthened, while ecosystem respirations were inhibited during spring tides in comparison with those during neap tides, which needs to be considered in modeling mangrove ecosystem carbon cycle under future sea level rise scenarios.
Performance Evaluation of a Small-Scale Turbojet Engine Running on Palm Oil Biodiesel Blends
Authors: Abu Talib A. R. , Gires E. , Ahmad M. T.
Published: July 2014

The experimental and simulated performance of an Armfield CM4 turbojet engine was investigated for palm oil methyl ester biodiesel (PME) and its blends with conventional Jet A-1 fuel. The volumetric blends of PME with Jet A-1 are 20, 50, 70, and 100% (B20, B50, B70, and B100). Fuel heating values (FHV) of each fuel mixture were obtained by calorimetric analysis. The experimental tests included performance tests for Jet A-1 and B20, while the performances of B50 to B100 were simulated using GasTurb 11 analytical software. In terms of maximum measured thrust, Jet A-1 yielded the highest value of 216 N, decreasing by 0.77%, 4%, 8%, and 12% with B20, B50, B70, and B100. It was found that B20 produced comparable results compared to the benchmark Jet A-1 tests, particularly with thrust and thermal efficiency. Slight performance penalties occurred due to the lower energy content of the biodiesel blends. The efficiency of the combustor improved with the addition of biodiesel while the other component efficiencies remained collectively consistent. This research shows that, at least for larger gas turbines, PME is suitable for use as an additive to Jet A-1 within 50% blends.
Working Capital Management, Corporate Performance, and Strategic Choices of the Wholesale and Retail Industry in China
Authors: Li Chuan-guo , Dong Hui-min , Chen Shou , Yang Yan
Published: July 2014

We examine the influence of strategic choice on working capital configurations and observe how the relationship between working capital ratio and operational performance differs depending on strategy. By clustering the strategic factors of the wholesale and retail industry, we find three categories of strategies: terminal market strategy, middle market strategy, and hybrid strategy. Using the panel data of the listed companies of the wholesale and retail industry as our sample, we analyze the differences in the ways companies configure working capital, the speed with which working capital adjusts to its target, and the effects of working capital on performance for companies that make different strategic choices. The empirical results suggest that working capital is configured and adjusted to its target in different ways under different competitive strategic choices. This effect is finally transferred to influence the relationship between working capital configuration and operational performance.
Glucose-6–phosphatase Is a Key Metabolic Regulator of Glioblastoma Invasion
Authors: Abbadi Sara , Rodarte Julio J. , Abutaleb Ameer , Lavell Emily , Smith Chris L. , Ruff William , Schiller Jennifer , Olivi Alessandro , Levchenko Andre , Guerrero-Cazares Hugo , Quinones-Hinojosa Alfredo
Published: July 2014

Glioblastoma (GBM) remains the most aggressive primary brain cancer in adults. Similar to other cancers, GBM cells undergo metabolic reprogramming to promote proliferation and survival. Glycolytic inhibition is widely used to target such reprogramming. However, the stability of glycolytic inhibition in GBM remains unclear especially in a hypoxic tumor microenvironment. In this study, it was determined that glucose-6–phosphatase (G6PC/G6Pase) expression is elevated in GBM when compared with normal brain. Human-derived brain tumor–initiating cells (BTIC) use this enzyme to counteract glycolytic inhibition induced by 2-deoxy-d-glucose (2DG) and sustain malignant progression. Downregulation of G6PC renders the majority of these cells unable to survive glycolytic inhibition, and promotes glycogen accumulation through the activation of glycogen synthase (GYS1) and inhibition of glycogen phosphorylase (PYGL). Moreover, BTICs that survive G6PC knockdown are less aggressive (reduced migration, invasion, proliferation, and increased astrocytic differentiation). Collectively, these findings establish G6PC as a key enzyme with promalignant functional consequences that has not been previously reported in GBM and identify it as a potential therapeutic target.

Implications: This study is the first to demonstrate a functional relationship between the critical gluconeogenic and glycogenolytic enzyme G6PC with the metabolic adaptations during GBM invasion.

Visual Overview: http://mcr.aacrjournals.org/content/12/11/1547/F1.large.jpg.

Mol Cancer Res; 12(11); 1547–59. ©2014 AACR.
Factors Influencing the Accuracy of Fetal Weight Estimation with a Focus on Preterm Birth at the Limit of Viability: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Huber Chantal , Zdanowicz Jarmila A. , Mueller Martin , Surbek Daniel
Published: July 2014

Background: Fetal weight estimation (FWE) is an important factor for clinical management decisions, especially in imminent preterm birth at the limit of viability between 230/7 and 260/7 weeks of gestation. It is crucial to detect and eliminate factors that have a negative impact on the accuracy of FWE. Data Sources: In this systematic literature review, we investigated 14 factors that may influence the accuracy of FWE, in particular in preterm neonates born at the limit of viability. Results: We found that gestational age, maternal body mass index, amniotic fluid index and ruptured membranes, presentation of the fetus, location of the placenta and the presence of multiple fetuses do not seem to have an impact on FWE accuracy. The influence of the examiner's grade of experience and that of fetal gender were discussed controversially. Fetal weight, time interval between estimation and delivery and the use of different formulas seem to have an evident effect on FWE accuracy. No results were obtained on the impact of active labor. Discussion: This review reveals that only few studies investigated factors possibly influencing the accuracy of FWE in preterm neonates at the limit of viability. Further research in this specific age group on potential confounding factors is needed.
Multiple Sclerosis-Related Trigeminal Neuralgia: A Prospective Series of 43 Patients Treated with Gamma Knife Surgery with More than One Year of Follow-Up
Authors: Tuleasca Constantin , Carron Romain , Resseguier Noémie , Donnet Anne , Roussel Philippe , Gaudart Jean , Levivier Marc , Régis Jean
Published: July 2014

Background: Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) related to multiple sclerosis (MS) is more difficult to manage pharmacologically and surgically. Objective: This article aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of Gamma Knife surgery (GKS) in this special group of patients. Methods: Between July 1992 and November 2010, 43 cases with more than 1 year of follow-up were operated with GKS for TN related to MS and prospectively evaluated in the Timone University Hospital, Marseille, France. Radiosurgery using the Gamma Knife (model B or C or Perfexion) was performed. A single 4-mm isocenter was positioned at a median distance of 8 mm (range 5.7-14.7) anterior to the emergence of the nerve. A median maximum dose of 85 Gy (range 75-90) was delivered. Results: The median follow-up period was 53.8 months (12-157.1). Thirty-nine patients (90.7%) were initially pain free. Their actuarial probability of remaining pain free without medication at 6 months, 1, 3, 5 and 10 years was 87.2, 71.8, 43.1, 38.3 and 20.5%, respectively, and remained stable till 12 years. The hypoesthesia actuarial rate at 6 months, 1 and 2 years was 11.5, 11.5 and 16%, and remained stable till 12 years. Conclusions: GKS proved safe and effective in this special group of patients.
Darbepoetin-α Accelerates Neovascularization and Engraftment of Extrahepatic Colorectal Metastases
Authors: Senger Sebastian , Kollmar Otto , Menger Michael D. , Schilling Martin K. , Rupertus Kathrin
Published: July 2014

Purpose: Erythropoietin and its analogue darbepoetin (DPO)-α have been shown to improve liver function and regeneration after partial hepatectomy (Phx). However, previous experimental studies have also shown that DPO significantly enhances Phx-induced engraftment of colorectal liver metastases by increasing neovascularization and tumor cell proliferation. Therefore, the present study analyzed whether DPO affects engraftment and neovascularization of extrahepatic colorectal metastases after major hepatectomy. Methods: Green fluorescent protein-transfected CT26.WT colorectal cancer cells were implanted into dorsal skinfold chambers of syngeneic BALB/c mice. Animals received a single dose of DPO (10 µg/kg body weight) at the day of tumor cell implantation (day 0). Phosphate-buffered saline-treated animals served as controls. To study whether the effect of DPO is influenced by Phx, additional animals with and without DPO treatment underwent 70% Phx at day 0. Tumor vascularization and growth as well as tumor cell migration, proliferation and apoptosis were studied repetitively over 14 days using intravital fluorescence microscopy, histology and immunohistochemistry. Results: In nonhepatectomized animals, DPO significantly accelerated tumor cell engraftment and slightly enhanced tumor neovascularization. Tumor cell migration and host tissue infiltration were not affected by DPO. In hepatectomized animals, DPO slightly enhanced tumor growth and significantly accelerated tumor neovascularization, but did not affect tumor cell migration and infiltration. Conclusion: The present study indicates that DPO accelerates extrahepatic engraftment of colorectal cancer cells, most probably by stimulating the process of neovascularization.
AMPK-Dependent Inhibitory Phosphorylation of ACC Is Not Essential for Maintaining Myocardial Fatty Acid Oxidation
Authors: Zordoky Beshay N.M. , Nagendran Jeevan , Pulinilkunnil Thomas , Kienesberger Petra C. , Masson Grant , Waller Terri J. , Kemp Bruce E. , Steinberg Gregory R. , Dyck Jason R.B.
Published: July 2014

Rationale
:

The energy sensor AMP-activated protein kinases (AMPK) is thought to play an important role in regulating myocardial fatty acid oxidation (FAO) via its phosphorylation and inactivation of acetyl coenzyme A carboxylase (ACC). However, studies supporting this have not directly assessed whether the maintenance of FAO rates and subsequent cardiac function requires AMPK-dependent inhibitory phosphorylation of ACC.

Objective
:

To determine whether preventing AMPK-mediated inactivation of ACC influences myocardial FAO or function.

Methods and Results
:

A double knock-in (DKI) mouse (ACC-DKI) model was generated in which the AMPK phosphorylation sites Ser79 on ACC1 and Ser221 (Ser212 mouse) on ACC2 were mutated to prevent AMPK-dependent inhibitory phosphorylation of ACC. Hearts from ACC-DKI mice displayed a complete loss of ACC phosphorylation at the AMPK phosphorylation sites. Despite the inability of AMPK to regulate ACC activity, hearts from ACC-DKI mice displayed normal basal AMPK activation and cardiac function at both standard and elevated workloads. In agreement with the inability of AMPK in hearts from ACC-DKI mice to phosphorylate and inhibit ACC, there was a significant increase in cardiac malonyl-CoA content compared with wild-type mice. However, cardiac FAO rates were comparable between wild-type and ACC-DKI mice at baseline, during elevated workloads, and after a more stressful condition of myocardial ischemia that is known to robustly activate AMPK.

Conclusions
:

Our findings show AMPK-dependent inactivation of ACC is not essential for the control of myocardial FAO and subsequent cardiac function during a variety of conditions involving AMPK-independent and AMPK-dependent metabolic adaptations.
Joint Occurrence of Daily Temperature and Precipitation Extreme Events over Canada
Authors: Tencer Bárbara , Weaver Andrew , Zwiers Francis
Published: July 2014

The occurrence of individual extremes such as temperature and precipitation extremes can have a great impact on the environment. Agriculture, energy demands, and human health, among other activities, can be affected by extremely high or low temperatures and by extremely dry or wet conditions. The simultaneous or proximate occurrence of both types of extremes could lead to even more profound consequences, however. For example, a dry period can have more negative consequences on agriculture if it is concomitant with or followed by a period of extremely high temperatures. This study analyzes the joint occurrence of very wet conditions and high/low temperature events at stations in Canada. More than one-half of the stations showed a significant positive relationship at the daily time scale between warm nights (daily minimum temperature greater than the 90th percentile) or warm days (daily maximum temperature above the 90th percentile) and heavy-precipitation events (daily precipitation exceeding the 75th percentile), with the greater frequencies found for the east and southwest coasts during autumn and winter. Cold days (daily maximum temperature below the 10th percentile) occur together with intense precipitation more frequently during spring and summer. Simulations by regional climate models show good agreement with observations in the seasonal and spatial variability of the joint distribution, especially when an ensemble of simulations was used.
The Role of Customer Engagement in Building Consumer Loyalty to Tourism Brands
Authors: So Kevin Kam Fung , King Ceridwyn , Sparks Beverley A. , Wang Ying
Published: July 2014

Customer engagement has recently emerged in both academic literature and practitioner discussions as a brand loyalty predictor that may be superior to other traditional loyalty antecedents. However, empirical inquiry on customer engagement is relatively scarce. As tourism and hospitality firms have widely adopted customer engagement strategies for managing customer–brand relationships, further understanding of this concept is essential. Using structural equation modeling, this study investigates the linkages of customer engagement with traditional antecedents of brand loyalty. Results based on 496 hotel and airline customers suggest that customer engagement enhances customers’ service brand evaluation, brand trust, and brand loyalty. The results show that service brand loyalty can be strengthened not only through the service consumption experience but also through customer engagement beyond the service encounter. This study contributes to the literature by providing an empirical evaluation of the relationships between customer engagement and key brand loyalty development factors.
Nationalism in Local Media During International Conflict
Authors: Montiel Cristina Jayme , Salvador Alma Maria O. , See Daisy C. , De Leon Marlene M.
Published: July 2014

Using the lens of positioning theory and a mixed methods strategy, we investigate domestic media’s production of nationalism during an international conflict. Philippine and Chinese news accounts of the Scarborough Shoal conflict are text mined by RapidMiner software. With almost 100% accuracy, mathematical models successfully classify sets-of-words that belong to each domestic newspaper. Principal components analyses show that Philippine Daily Inquirer reports revolve around words related to local fishing and livelihoods. News accounts in China’s People’s Daily uphold national sovereignty. A complementary qualitative analysis of the news reports gives our mathematically derived themes more meaning. Philippine maritime claims cite recent Philippine history and international law. China’s story references lost sovereignty and ancient rather than recent history. Positioning analysis demonstrates how each newspaper claims its own country owns Scarborough Shoal and is the victim of the other country. Our findings show how two contradictory and nationalistic versions of an international conflict may be linguistically constructed by domestic media. Our research also highlights the illuminative power of positioning theory in the field of international relations and media analysis.
Different revenue incentives, different content? Comparing economic news before and during the financial crisis in German public and commercial news outlets over time
Authors: Lischka Juliane A.
Published: July 2014

This study argues that revenue model incentives determine news content. The goal to make profits and the need to sell audiences to advertisers guide journalists’ selection and interpretation of newsworthy material and result in commercialised news. We compare the volume, tone, and the obtrusiveness of topics in all economic news stories for the evening TV news of the public broadcasters ARD and ZDF, the commercial broadcaster RTL, and the tabloid newspaper BILD from 2002 to 2010 in Germany ( n = 26,467). Results indicate that news selection is guided by revenue model incentives since economic news differs by volume and topic between public and commercial outlets. News interpretation, i.e., news tone, stronger varies across the media types TV and print. We conclude that advertising income dependency and observation of competitor behaviour transmits to operative journalistic practices and decisions, which in turn determine journalistic outcome.
RNA Interference Protects Against 5-Lipoxygenase-Induced Cocarcinogen, Benzidine, Oxidation and Cytotoxicity in Human Tracheobronchial Epithelial Cells
Authors: Huang Yun , Tan Qingping , Wu Yue , Zhu Hongxiang , Xiong Minru , Hu Jianan
Published: July 2014

Lipoxygenase (LOX)-catalyzed cooxidation of the human carcinogen benzidine (BZD) has been shown in in vitro enzyme systems. This study aimed to determine whether BZD could be activated by arachidonate 5-lipoxygenase ( ALOX5) in the human tracheobronchial epithelial cells (HBECs) using RNA interference strategy and a 5-LOX-specific inhibitor, AA861. We show that the soybean LOX catalyzed the cooxidation of BZD, generating BZD diimine. Benzidine induced expression of ALOX5 messenger RNA and 5-LOX protein in HBECs, and significantly decreased cell proliferation, but enhanced DNA damage and apoptosis in HBECs which were significantly inhibited by lentiviral-mediated small hairpin RNA-knockdown of ALOX5 and by AA861. Thus, BZD could upregulate the expression of ALOX5 in HBECs, while inhibition of the protein or gene expression or enzyme activity could prevent BZD-induced cytotoxicity and DNA damage in HBECs, which might be caused by the 5-LOX-catalyzed oxidative activation of BZD.
Subjective criteria for choice and aesthetic judgment of music: A comparison of psychology and music students
Authors: Juslin Patrik N. , Isaksson Sara
Published: July 2014

Previous research has highlighted the important role of choice in listeners’ responses to music, but relatively little is known about the subjective criteria on which listeners base their choices. Hence, the goal of this study was to make a first attempt to investigate the relative importance of various criteria in listeners’ choice and aesthetic judgment of music, and how the weighting of these criteria varies as a function of preferences for specific music genres, music education, and personality traits. These issues were explored by means of a 13-item questionnaire, which was administered to 72 Swedish participants (18–43 years old), who studied either psychology or music at a conservatory level. The results suggested that a range of criteria are important in both music choice and aesthetic judgment. As expected, there were many differences between psychology students and music students regarding their relative weighting of different criteria. In particular, psychology students tended to rate “extrinsic” choice criteria (e.g., “suits specific activities”) as opposed to “intrinsic” criteria (e.g., “interesting structure”) higher than did music students. Still, both groups rated the expression and arousal of emotions as the most important criteria for their music choice and aesthetic judgment. The results are discussed with regard to their implications for music education and future research on music preference and aesthetics.
Brazilian embauba (Cecropia pachystachya) extract reduces renal lesions in 5/6 nephrectomized rats
Authors: do C Maquiaveli Claudia , da Silva Edson R , Francescato Heloísa DC , Costa Roberto S , Silva Cleonice GA , Casarini Dulce E , Ronchi Fernanda A , Coimbra Terezila M
Published: July 2014

Introduction:

Cecropia pachystachya (CP) is a plant rich in polyphenols which inhibits the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) in vitro. Angiotensin II (AII) has an important role in the renal lesion provoked by 5/6 nephrectomy (NE). This study evaluated the CP extract effect on renal lesions provoked by 5/6 NE.

Materials and methods:

Male Wistar rats submitted to 5/6 NE were treated or not treated with CP extract and followed for 90 days. Systemic blood pressure (SBP), albuminuria, renal functional and structural parameters, ACE activity, urinary levels of monocyte chemoattrant protein-1 (MCP-1) and transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) were evaluated.

Results:

Albuminuria and hypertension were less intense in the treated (NE+CP) group compared to the untreated (NE) group. CP extract treatment reduced the fall in glomerular filtration rate observed in NE rats. Glomerulosclerosis, tubulointerstitial lesions, increase of macrophages and AII positive cells in the renal cortex, as well as increases in renal ACE activity, urinary levels of MCP-1 and TGF-β were attenuated in NE rats by CP treatment.

Conclusions:

The treatment with CP extract reduced the SBP and functional and structural renal changes in 5/6 NE rats. These effects were associated with decreased AII expression, ACE activity and inflammation in the renal cortex.
Paying pharmacists for patient care
Authors: Houle Sherilyn K. D. , Grindrod Kelly A. , Chatterley Trish , Tsuyuki Ross T.
Published: July 2014

Background:

Expansion of scope of practice and diminishing revenues from dispensing are requiring pharmacists to increasingly adopt clinical care services into their practices. Pharmacists must be able to receive payment in order for provision of clinical care to be sustainable. The objective of this study is to update a previous systematic review by identifying remunerated pharmacist clinical care programs worldwide and reporting on uptake and patient care outcomes observed as a result.

Methods:

Literature searches were performed in several databases, including MEDLINE, Embase and International Pharmaceutical Abstracts, for papers referencing remuneration, pharmacy and cognitive services. Searches of the grey literature and Internet were also conducted. Papers and programs were identified up to December 2012 and were included if they were not reported in our previous review. One author performed data abstraction, which was independently reviewed by a second author. All results are presented descriptively.

Results:

Sixty new remunerated programs were identified across Canada, the United States, Europe, Australia and New Zealand, ranging in complexity from emergency contraception counseling to minor ailments schemes and comprehensive medication management. In North America, the average fee provided for a medication review is $68.86 (all figures are given in Canadian dollars), with $23.37 offered for a follow-up visit and $15.16 for prescription adaptations. Time-dependent fees were reimbursed at $93.60 per hour on average. Few programs evaluated uptake and outcomes of these services but, when available, indicated slow uptake but improved chronic disease markers and cost savings.

Discussion:

Remuneration for pharmacists’ clinical care services is highly variable, with few programs reporting program outcomes. Programs and pharmacists are encouraged to examine the time required to perform these activities and the outcomes achieved to ensure that fees are adequate to sustain these patient care activities.
Atrial fibrillation
Authors: McCartney David E , Lomas Oliver , Cahill Thomas J
Published: July 2014

Atrial fibrillation (AF) describes the rapid, uncoordinated contraction of atrial myoctes. It is the most common arrhythmia worldwide, and is estimated to affect around 1 000 000 people in the UK. The management of AF is directed at identifying the underlying cause as well as mitigating immediate and long-term consequences of the arrhythmia, most importantly stroke and congestive cardiac failure. Young patients with ‘lone AF’ may benefit from a rhythm-control strategy using electrical or chemical cardioversion, whereas in older patients with underlying comorbidity a rate-control strategy may be more appropriate. Newer treatments such as catheter ablation may be indicated in those who remain symptomatic despite drug therapy. Most patients in the long term will benefit from oral anticoagulation in the form of warfarin or a novel oral anticoagulant for stroke thromboprophylaxis. This article will review the diagnosis, risk assessment, immediate and long-term management of this common arrhythmia.
The effectiveness of conscious pricing in promoting social sustainability
Authors: Eckhardt Giana M. , Dobscha Susan
Published: July 2014

In this article, Giana Eckhardt and Susan Dobscha introduce the construct of ‘conscious pricing’, and describe how it is being used by businesses to address social causes. They emphasize that consumers are not willing to bear the cost of these social issues. Rather, social issues must be addressed at the structural level.
‘Bridging the Gap’? Public and Private Regulation of Labour Standards in Apparel Value Chains in Brazil
Authors: Posthuma Anne , Bignami Renato
Published: July 2014

This article contributes insights to the emerging literature on the potential interaction between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and public regulation of labour standards in global and national value chains. Based on a case study of an endogenous CSR initiative recently introduced by the Brazilian Association of Apparel Retailers (ABVTEX), the article explores how this incipient experience may offer the potential to bridge two prevalent regulatory gaps in value chains. First, communication is being fostered gradually between a private sector audit programme and the public labour inspection, pointing toward ways in which private and public action can play complementary roles in the promotion of labour standards in value chains. Second, the design of this CSR initiative seeks to extend monitoring beyond first-tier suppliers to identify vulnerable workers in subcontracted firms at lower tiers within value chains, in response to a response to a commission report of the São Paulo City Council, which advised that retailers cannot use clauses in supplier contracts to outsource responsibility for labour standards in their value chains.
Global Value Chains and Social Upgrading of Clusters: Lessons from Two Cases of Fair Trade in the Brazilian Northeast
Authors: Puppim de Oliveira Jose A. , de Oliveira Cerqueira Fortes Paulo Jordão
Published: July 2014

This article analyses how cluster integration in global value chains affects social upgrading processes in two local industrial districts in the agro-industrial sector (oil for cosmetics and organic honey) located in the Northeast of Brazil, which are both involved in fair trade relations with foreign clients. Several lessons are drawn on the basis of these case studies in relation to how economic upgrading can be aligned with social upgrading in local cluster settings. We conclude that global value chain linkages cannot alone explain the social upgrading processes that we observe in these cases. The presence of strong local organizations was key in driving social upgrading processes both prior to and after the insertion of both industrial clusters into the global economy.
The Fe-Mg-saponite solid solution series – a hydrothermal synthesis study
Authors: Baldermann A. , Dohrmann R. , Kaufhold S. , Nickel C. , Letofsky-Papst I. , Dietzel M.
Published: July 2014

The boundary conditions of saponite formation are generally considered to be well known, but significant gaps in our knowledge persist in respect to the influence of solution chemistry, temperature, and reaction time on the mineralogy, structure, stability, and chemical composition of laboratory-grown ferrous saponite. In the present study, ferrous saponite and Mgsaponite were synthesized in Teflon-lined, stainless steel autoclaves at 60, 120 and 180°C, alkaline pH, reducing conditions, and initial solutions with molar Si:Fe:Mg ratios of 4:0:2, 4:1:1, 4:1.5:0.5, 4:1.75:0.25, and 4:1.82:0.18. The experimental solutions were prepared by dissolution of sodium orthosilicate (Na4SiO4), iron(II)sulfate (FeSO4·6H2O) and magnesium chloride salts (MgCl2·6H2O with ≤ 0.005 mass% of K and Ca) in 50 mL ultrapure water that contained 0.05% sodium dithionite as the reducing agent. The precipitates obtained at two, five and seven days of reaction time were investigated by X-ray diffraction techniques, transmission electron microscopy analysis, infra-red spectroscopy, and thermo-analytical methods.

The precipitates were composed mainly of trioctahedral ferrous saponite, with small admixtures of co-precipitated brucite, opal-CT, and 2-line ferrihydrite, and nontronite as the probable alteration product of ferrous saponite. The compositions of the obtained ferrous saponites were highly variable, (Na0.44−0.59K0.00−0.05Ca0.00−0.02) (Fe2+0.37−2.41Mg0.24−2.44Fe3+0.00−0.28)Σ2.65−2.85[(Fe3+0.00−0.37Si3.63−4.00)O10](OH)2, but show similarities with naturally occurring trioctahedral Fe and Mg end members, except for the Al content. This suggests that a complete solid solution may exist in the Fe-Mg-saponite series.

A conceptual reaction sequence for the formation of ferrous saponite is developed based on the experimental solution and solid compositions. Initially, at pH ≥ 10.4, brucite-type octahedral template sheets are formed, where dissolved Si-O tetrahedra are condensed. Subsequent reorganization of the octahedra and tetrahedra via multiple dissolution-precipitation processes finally results in the formation of saponite structures, together with brucite and partly amorphous silica. The extent of Fe2+incorporation in the octahedral template sheets via isomorphic substitution is suggested to stabilize the saponite structure, explaining (i) the abundance of saponite enriched inVIFe2+at elevated Fe supply and (ii) the effect of structural Fe on controlling the net formation rates of ferrous saponite.
Adult adipose-derived stem cells and breast cancer: a controversial relationship
Authors: Bielli Alessandra , Scioli Maria Giovanna , Gentile Pietro , Agostinelli Sara , Tarquini Chiara , Cervelli Valerio , Orlandi Augusto
Published: July 2014

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women and autologous fat grafting is an important clinical application in treatment of post-surgical deformities. The simplicity of fat grafting procedures and the absence of subsequent visible scar prompted an increasing interest for this technique. The plasticity of adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) obtained from stromal vascular fraction (SVF) of adult adipose tissue provided exciting perspectives for regenerative medicine and surgery. The recent discovery that SVF/ASC enrichment further ameliorates clinical efficacy of grafting ASCs suggest as ASC-mediated new adipogenesis and vasculogenesis. ASC adipogenic differentiation involves Akt activity and EGFRs, FGFRs, ERbB2 receptor-mediated pathways that also play a pivotal role in the regulation of breast cancer growth. Moreover, the finding that platelet-derived growth factors and hormones improved long-term maintenance of fat grafting raises new concerns for their use during breast reconstruction after cancer surgery. However, it remains unclear whether grafted or resident ASCs may increase the risk of de novo cancer development or recurrence. Preliminary follow-up studies seem to support the efficacy and safety of SVF/ASCs enrichment and the additional benefit from the combined use of autologous platelet-derived growth factors and hormones during breast reconstruction procedures. In the present review we highlighted the complex interplay between resident or grafted ASCs, mature adipocytes, dormant or active breast cancer cells and tumor microenvironment. Actually, data concerning the permissive role of ASCs on breast cancer progression are contrasting, although no clear evidence speaking against their use exists.
Low-dose oral imatinib in the treatment of systemic sclerosis interstitial lung disease unresponsive to cyclophosphamide: a phase II pilot study
Authors: Fraticelli Paolo , Gabrielli Barbara , Pomponio Giovanni , Valentini Gabriele , Bosello Silvia , Riboldi Piersandro , Gerosa Maria , Faggioli Paola , Giacomelli Roberto , Del Papa Nicoletta , Gerli Roberto , Lunardi Claudio , Bombardieri Stefano , Malorni Walter , Corvetta Angelo , Moroncini Gianluca , Gabrielli Armando
Published: July 2014

Introduction

Pulmonary involvement represents a major cause of death of systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients. Recent data suggest that tyrosine kinase inhibitors, such as imatinib, may be a therapeutic option for SSc patients. However, preliminary published clinical trials were inconclusive about imatinib efficacy and showed side effects. The purpose of this study was to verify efficacy and tolerability of low-dose imatinib on interstitial lung disease in a cohort of SSc patients unresponsive to cyclophosphamide therapy.

Methods

Thirty consecutive SSc patients with active pulmonary involvement, unresponsive to cyclophosphamide, were treated with imatinib 200 mg/day for 6 months followed by a 6-month follow-up. A “good response” was defined as an increase of forced vital capacity (FVC) by more of 15% and/or increase of diffusing capacity of carbon monoxide (DLCO) >15% and PaO2 > 90% of initial value and high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT)-scan pattern unchanged or improved.

Results

Twenty-six patients completed the study. Three patients died and one patient was lost to follow-up. Four patients (15.32%) had a good response, 7 worsened and 15 had a stabilized lung disease. Overall, 19 (73.07%) patients had an improved or stabilized lung disease. After a 6-month follow-up, 12 (54.5%) of the 22 patients showed an improved or stabilized lung disease.

Conclusions

Lung function was stabilized in a large proportion of patients unresponsive to cyclophosphamide therapy and a beneficial outcome emerged from the analysis of HRCT lung scans. There was no significant improvement of skin involvement, and the low dose was well tolerated. These data provide useful suggestions to design future randomized clinical trials for SSc therapeutics.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00573326. Registered 13 December 2007.
Morphological characteristics influencing the orthodontic extraction strategies for Angle's class II division 1 malocclusions
Authors: Guo Yongwen , Han Xianglong , Xu Hui , Ai Dongqing , Zeng Huan , Bai Ding
Published: July 2014

Background

Extraction has now been accepted widely in various malocclusions including Angle's class II division 1. However, the levels of scientific evidence in orthodontic treatment planning have been weak, and it is unlikely to systematically provide a rationale and consistent basis in decisions of extraction. This study was retrospectively designed to investigate the initial morphologic characteristics of class II division 1 subjects involving four different extraction strategies, to determine the relevant influential factors when choosing extraction strategies with the most commonly used mechanics and the principle of simplicity in orthodontic treatment based on cases diagnosed and treated by an experienced orthodontist.

Methods

One hundred and ten samples of Angle's class II division 1 malocclusion with good facial and occlusal outcomes after orthodontic treatment were selected and divided into four groups according to different extraction patterns. For each case, pretreatment models and the lateral radiographs were analyzed. Significant variables of models and craniofacial structures of each group were identified by comparing the measurements using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) at a significance level of P < 0.05. Then, binary logistic regression analysis was used and a regression equation was established to quantify the correlations among the significant variables and their contributions to the extraction decisions.

Results

Molar relationship, lower anterior crowding, anterior Bolton index, and anterior overjet measured from models, as well as ANS-Xi-Pm, NBa-PtGn, Li-NsPog', U1-NPog and L1-NPog measured from lateral radiographs were found to be statistically significant. Binary logistic regression analysis revealed that lower anterior crowding, molar relationship, and growth pattern were the three most relevant influential factors with a declining impact contributing to the extraction decisions for Angle's class II division 1 malocclusions.

Conclusions

Angle's class II division 1 malocclusions exhibit various morphological characteristics. Orthodontists should comprehensively consider the reciprocal impact of multiple factors when choosing different extraction strategies for Angle's class II division 1 malocclusions.
Prediction of Survival in Patients With Thin Melanoma: Results From a Multi-Institution Study
Authors: Maurichi Andrea , Miceli Rosalba , Camerini Tiziana , Mariani Luigi , Patuzzo Roberto , Ruggeri Roberta , Gallino Gianfranco , Tolomio Elena , Tragni Gabrina , Valeri Barbara , Anichini Andrea , Mortarini Roberta , Moglia Daniele , Pellacani Giovanni , Bassoli Sara , Longo Caterina , Quaglino Pietro , Pimpinelli Nicola , Borgognoni Lorenzo , Bergamaschi Daniele , Harwood Catherine , Zoras Odysseas , Santinami Mario
Published: July 2014

Purpose

Cutaneous melanoma incidence is increasing. Most new cases are thin (≤ 1 mm) with favorable prognoses, but survival is nonetheless variable. Our aim was to investigate new prognostic factors and construct a nomogram for predicting survival in individual patients.

Patients and Methods

Data from 2,243 patients with thin melanoma were retrieved from prospectively maintained databases at six centers. Kaplan-Meier survival and crude cumulative incidences of recurrence were estimated, and competing risks were taken into account. Multivariable Cox regression was used to investigate survival predictors.

Results

Median follow-up was 124 months (interquartile range, 106 to 157 months); 12-year overall survival was 85.3% (95% CI, 83.4% to 87.2%). Median times to local, regional, and distant recurrence were 79, 78, and 107 months, respectively. Relapse was significantly related to age, Breslow thickness, mitotic rate (MR), ulceration, lymphovascular invasion (LVI), and regression; incidence was lower and subgroup differences were less marked for distant metastasis than for regional relapse. The worst prognosis categories were age older than 60 years, Breslow thickness more than 0.75 mm, MR ≥ 1, presence of ulceration, presence of LVI, and regression ≥ 50%. Breslow thickness more than 0.75 mm, MR ≥ 1, presence of ulceration, and LVI (all P = .001) were significantly associated with sentinel node positivity. Age, MR, ulceration, LVI, regression, and sentinel node status were independent predictors of survival and were used to construct a nomogram to predict 12-year overall survival. The nomogram was well calibrated and had good discriminative ability (adjusted Harrell C statistic, 0.88).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest including LVI and regression as new prognostic factors in the melanoma staging system. The nomogram appears useful for risk stratification in clinical management and for recruiting patients to clinical trials.
Iodine-Induced Hypothyroidism in Full-term Infants With Congenital Heart Disease: More Common Than Currently Appreciated?
Authors: Thaker V. V. , Leung A. M. , Braverman L. E. , Brown R. S. , Levine B.
Published: July 2014

Context:

Iodine is a micronutrient essential for thyroid hormone synthesis. Thyroid hormone is critical for normal neurocognitive development in young infants, and even transient hypothyroidism can cause adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes. Both iodine deficiency and excess can cause hypothyroidism. Although iodine-induced hypothyroidism is well recognized in premature infants, full-term neonates have received less attention. Infants with congenital heart disease (CHD) are commonly exposed to excess iodine from administration of iodinated contrast agents during cardiac catheterization as well as topical application of iodine-containing antiseptics and dressings; hence, this is a vulnerable population.

Objective:

We report three cases of iodine-induced hypothyroidism in full-term neonates with CHD after cardiac angiography and topical application of iodine-containing antiseptics and dressings in the operative setting.

Results:

Three neonates with CHD and normal thyroid function at birth developed hypothyroidism after exposure to excess iodine. Two of these infants had transient hypothyroidism, and one had severe hypothyroidism requiring ongoing thyroid replacement therapy. All infants were asymptomatic, with hypothyroidism detected incidentally in the inpatient setting due to repeat newborn screening mandated by the long duration of hospitalization in these infants.

Conclusions:

Iodine-induced hypothyroidism may be under-recognized in infants with CHD exposed to excess iodine. Systematic monitoring of thyroid function should be considered to avoid potential long-term adverse neurodevelopmental effects of even transient thyroid dysfunction in this susceptible population.
The Scribble module regulates retromer-dependent endocytic trafficking during epithelial polarization
Authors: de Vreede Geert , Schoenfeld Joshua D. , Windler Sarah L. , Morrison Holly , Lu Han , Bilder David
Published: July 2014

Scribble (Scrib) module proteins are major regulators of cell polarity, but how they influence membrane traffic is not known. Endocytosis is also a key regulator of polarity through roles that remain unclear. Here we link Scrib to a specific arm of the endocytic trafficking system. Drosophila mutants that block AP-2-dependent endocytosis share many phenotypes with Scrib module mutants, but Scrib module mutants show intact internalization and endolysosomal transport. However, defective traffic of retromer pathway cargo is seen, and retromer components show strong genetic interactions with the Scrib module. The Scrib module is required for proper retromer localization to endosomes and promotes appropriate cargo sorting into the retromer pathway via both aPKC-dependent and -independent mechanisms. We propose that the Scrib module regulates epithelial polarity by influencing endocytic itineraries of Crumbs and other retromer-dependent cargo.
PEX16 contributes to peroxisome maintenance by constantly trafficking PEX3 via the ER
Authors: Aranovich Alexander , Hua Rong , Rutenberg Andrew D. , Kim Peter K.
Published: July 2014

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is required for the de novo biogenesis of peroxisomes in mammalian cells. However, its role in peroxisome maintenance is unclear. In order to explore ER involvement in the maintenance of peroxisomes, we redirect a peroxisomal membrane protein (PMP), PEX3, to directly target to the ER using the N-terminal ER signal sequence from preprolactin. Using biochemical techniques and fluorescent imaging, we find that the ER-targeted ssPEX3 is continuously imported into pre-existing peroxisomes. This suggests that the ER constitutively provides membrane proteins and associated lipids to pre-existing peroxisomes. Using quantitative time-lapse live-cell fluorescence microscopy applied to cells either depleted of or exogenously expressing PEX16, we find that PEX16 mediates the peroxisome trafficking of two distinct peroxisomal membrane proteins, PEX3 and PMP34, via the ER. These results not only provide insight into peroxisome maintenance and PMP trafficking in mammalian cells but also highlight important similarities and differences in the mechanisms of PMP import between the mammalian and yeast systems.