bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cell Therapy with Human Dermal Fibroblasts Enhances Intervertebral Disk Repair and Decreases Inflammation in the Rabbit Model
Authors: Chee Ana , Shi Peng , Cha Thomas , Kao Ting-Hsien , Yang Shu-Hua , Zhu Jun , Chen Ding , Zhang Yejia , An Howard S.
Published: April 2016

Study Design

Pilot study using the rabbit model.

Objective

Low back pain is often associated with disk degeneration. Cell therapy for degenerating disks may promote tissue regeneration and repair. Human dermal fibroblasts, obtained from the patient's skin tissue or donated tissue, may be a promising cell therapy option for degenerating disks. The objective of these studies is to determine the effects of intradiscal transplantation of neonatal human dermal fibroblasts (nHDFs) on intervertebral disk (IVD) degeneration by measuring disk height, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) signal intensity, gene expression, and collagen immunostaining.

Methods

New Zealand white rabbits ( n = 16) received an annular puncture to induce disk degeneration and were treated with nHDFs or saline 4 weeks later. At 2 and 8 weeks post-treatment, X-ray and MRI images were obtained. IVDs were isolated and examined for changes in collagen staining and gene expression.

Results

In the nHDF-treated group, there was a 10% increase in the disk height index after 8 weeks of treatment ( p ≤ 0.05), and there was no significant difference in the saline-treated group. When compared with the saline-treated disks, disks treated with nHDFs showed reduced expression of inflammatory markers, a higher ratio of collagen type II over collagen type I gene expression, and more intense immunohistochemical staining for both collagen types I and II.

Conclusions

Human dermal fibroblast introduction into the disk reduced inflammation and promoted tissue rich in both type I and type II collagens. The results of this study suggest that nHDFs would be a feasible cell therapy option for disk degeneration.
Fourier-transform spectroscopy and deperturbation analysis of the spin-orbit coupled A1Σ+ and b3Π states of KRb
Authors: Alps K. , Kruzins A. , Tamanis M. , Ferber R. , Pazyuk E. A. , Stolyarov A. V.
Published: April 2016

Fourier-transform A1Σ+ − b3Π → X1Σ+ laser-induced fluorescence spectra were recorded for the natural mixture of 39,41K85,87Rb isotopologues produced in a heatpipe oven. Overall 4200 rovibronic term values of the spin-orbit coupled A1Σ+ and b3Π states were determined with an uncertainty of about 0.01 cm−1 in the energy range [10 850, 14 200] cm−1 covering rotational quantum numbers J′ ∈ [3, 280]. Direct deperturbation analysis of the A ∼ b complex performed within the framework of the A1Σ+ ∼ b3ΠΩ=0,1,2 coupled-channel approach reproduced experimental data with a standard deviation of 0.004 cm−1. Initial parameters of the internuclear potentials and spin-orbit coupling functions along with the relevant transition dipole moments were obtained by performing the quasi-relativistic electronic structure calculations. The mass-invariant molecular parameters obtained from the fit were used to predict energy and radiative properties of the A ∼ b complex for low J levels of 39K85Rb as well as for 41K87Rb isotopologues, allowing us to identify the most reasonable candidates for the stimulated Raman transitions between the initial uppermost vibrational levels of the a3Σ+ and X1Σ+ states, the intermediate levels of the A ∼ b complex, and the lowest absolute ground X1Σ+(v = 0, J = 0) state.
Implications of retaining woody regrowth for carbon sequestration for an extensive grazing beef business: a bio-economic modelling case study
Authors: Whish Giselle , Pahl Lester , Bray Steven
Published: April 2016

A bio-economic modelling framework (GRASP-ENTERPRISE) was used to assess the implications of retaining woody regrowth for carbon sequestration on a case study beef grazing property in northern Australia. Five carbon farming scenarios, ranging from 0% to 100% of the property regrowth retained for carbon sequestration, were simulated over a 20-year period (1993–2012). Dedicating regrowth on the property for carbon sequestration reduced pasture (up to 40%) and herd productivity (up to 20%), and resulted in financial losses (up to 24% reduction in total gross margin). A net carbon income (income after grazing management expenses are removed) of $2–4 per t CO2-e was required to offset economic losses of retaining regrowth on a moderately productive (~8 ha adult equivalent–1) property where income was from the sale of weaners. A higher opportunity cost ($ t–1 CO2-e) of retaining woody regrowth is likely for feeder steer or finishing operations, with improved cattle prices, and where the substantial transaction and reporting costs are included. Although uncertainty remains around the price received for carbon farming activities, this study demonstrated that a conservatively stocked breeding operation can achieve positive production, environmental and economic outcomes, including net carbon stock. This study was based on a beef enterprise in central Queensland’s grazing lands, however, the approach and learnings are expected to be applicable across northern Australia where regrowth is present.
Cooperative folding near the downhill limit determined with amino acid resolution by hydrogen exchange
Authors: Yu Wookyung , Baxa Michael C. , Gagnon Isabelle , Freed Karl F. , Sosnick Tobin R.
Published: April 2016

Significance

Fast-folding proteins provide a testing ground for theories and simulations of folding at the extreme limit, in particular when it occurs on the timescale of chain diffusion and potentially in the elusive barrier-free limit. Whereas most fast-folding studies probe the reaction near the transition point with limited resolution, we apply hydrogen exchange methods to a microsecond folder, characterizing its energy landscape with amino acid precision under highly stabilizing conditions where barrier-free folding is most probable. Despite folding with
τ
= 5 μs, we find that the molecule folds and unfolds in a cooperative process matching the properties observed at elevated denaturant concentration, implying that much faster folding rate constants are required to reach the downhill limit.
Mechanical properties and interface morphology of Mg/Al ultrasonic spot weld bonding welds
Authors: Feng M. , Li Y. , Zhao C. , Luo Z.
Published: April 2016

This paper investigates the mechanical properties and interface morphology of Mg/Al ultrasonic spot welding (USW) joint, adhesive bonding (AB) joint and ultrasonic spot weld bonding (USWB) joint. The peak load and fracture energy of USWB joint increased significantly compared to that of USW joint and AB joint. The USWB joint presented a hybrid fracture mode which was composed of the delamination failure at adhesive/Mg interface, cohesive failure within the adhesive and cleavage failure in the weld zone. The interface morphology suggested that USWB joint exhibited fewer defects in the cured adhesive matrix and elevated connection density of adhesive/metal interface, which improved joint strength and altered the fracture mode.
Radii of starlikeness of some special functions
Authors: Baricz Árpád , Dimitrov Dimitar , Orhan Halit , Yağmur Nihat
Published: April 2016

Geometric properties of the classical Lommel and Struve functions, both of the first kind, are studied. For each of them, three different normalizations are applied in such a way that the resulting functions are analytic in the unit disk of the complex plane. For each of the six functions we determine the radius of starlikeness precisely.
Large deviations for systems with non-uniform structure
Authors: Climenhaga Vaughn , Thompson Daniel , Yamamoto Kenichiro
Published: April 2016

We use a weak Gibbs property and a weak form of specification to derive level-2 large deviations principles for symbolic systems equipped with a large class of reference measures. This has applications to a broad class of symbolic systems, including

β
\beta

-shifts,

S
S

-gap shifts, and their factors. A crucial step in our approach is to prove a ‘horseshoe theorem’ for these systems.
A refined Beilinson–Bloch conjecture for motives of modular forms
Authors: Longo Matteo , Vigni Stefano
Published: April 2016

We propose a refined version of the Beilinson–Bloch conjecture for the motive associated with a modular form of even weight. This conjecture relates the dimension of the image of the relevant

p
p

-adic Abel–Jacobi map to certain combinations of Heegner cycles on Kuga–Sato varieties. We prove theorems in the direction of the conjecture and, in doing so, obtain higher weight analogues of results for elliptic curves due to Darmon.
Entropy, stability and harmonic map flow
Authors: Boling Jess , Kelleher Casey , Streets Jeffrey
Published: April 2016

Inspired by work of Colding-Minicozzi (2012) on mean curvature flow, Zhang (2012) introduced a notion of entropy stability for harmonic map flow. We build further upon this work in several directions. First we prove the equivalence of entropy stability with a more computationally tractable

F

\mathcal {F}

-stability. Then, focusing on the case of spherical targets, we prove a general instability result for high-entropy solitons. Finally, we exploit results of Lin-Wang (2008) to observe long time existence and convergence results for maps into certain convex domains and how they relate to generic singularities of harmonic map flow.
Lamin B1 and lamin B2 are long-lived proteins with distinct functions in retinal development
Authors: Razafsky David , Ward Candace , Potter Chloe , Zhu Wanqiu , Xue Yunlu , Kefalov Vladimir J. , Fong Loren G. , Young Stephen G. , Hodzic Didier
Published: April 2016

Lamin B1 and lamin B2 are essential building blocks of the nuclear lamina, a filamentous meshwork lining the nucleoplasmic side of the inner nuclear membrane. Deficiencies in lamin B1 and lamin B2 impair neurodevelopment, but distinct functions for the two proteins in the development and homeostasis of the CNS have been elusive. Here we show that embryonic depletion of lamin B1 in retinal progenitors and postmitotic neurons affects nuclear integrity, leads to the collapse of the laminB2 meshwork, impairs neuronal survival, and markedly reduces the cellularity of adult retinas. In stark contrast, a deficiency of lamin B2 in the embryonic retina has no obvious effect on lamin B1 localization or nuclear integrity in embryonic retinas, suggesting that lamin B1, but not lamin B2, is strictly required for nucleokinesis during embryonic neurogenesis. However, the absence of lamin B2 prevents proper lamination of adult retinal neurons, impairs synaptogenesis, and reduces cone photoreceptor survival. We also show that lamin B1 and lamin B2 are extremely long-lived proteins in rod and cone photoreceptors. OF interest, a complete absence of both proteins during postnatal life has little or no effect on the survival and function of cone photoreceptors.
Clinical Characteristics and Predictors of Adverse Outcome in Adult and Pediatric Patients With Healthcare-Associated Ventriculitis and Meningitis
Authors: Srihawan Chanunya , Castelblanco Rodrigo Lopez , Salazar Lucrecia , Wootton Susan H. , Aguilera Elizabeth , Ostrosky-Zeichner Luis , Sandberg David I. , Choi HuiMahn A. , Lee Kiwon , Kitigawa Ryan , Tandon Nitin , Hasbun Rodrigo
Published: April 2016

Background.  Healthcare-associated meningitis or ventriculitis is a serious and life-threatening complication of invasive neurosurgical procedures or penetrating head trauma.

Methods.  We performed a retrospective study of adults and children with the diagnosis of healthcare-associated meningitis or ventriculitis, as defined by the 2015 Centers of Disease Control and Prevention case definition, at 2 large tertiary care hospitals in Houston, Texas from July 2003 to November 2014. Patients were identified by infection control practitioners and by screening cerebrospinal fluid samples sent to the central laboratory. We collected data on demographics, clinical presentations, laboratory results, imaging studies, treatments, and outcomes.

Results.  A total of 215 patients were included (166 adults and 49 children). A positive cerebrospinal fluid culture was seen in 106 (49%) patients, with the majority of the etiologies being Staphylococcus and Gram-negative rods. An adverse clinical outcome was seen in 167 patients (77.7%) and was defined as death in 20 patients (9.3%), persistent vegetative state in 31 patients (14.4%), severe disability in 77 patients (35.8%), or moderate disability in 39 patients (18.1%). On logistic regression analysis, age >45 years (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 6.47; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.31–18.11; P ≤ .001), abnormal neurological exam (adjusted OR, 3.04; 95% CI, 1.27–7.29; P = .013), and mechanical ventilation (adjusted OR, 5.34; 95% CI, 1.51–18.92; P = .01) were associated with an adverse outcome.

Conclusions.  Healthcare-associated meningitis or ventriculitis is associated with significant morbidity and mortality.
Recombinant expression ofStreptococcus pneumoniaecapsular polysaccharides inEscherichia coli
Authors: Kay Emily J. , Yates Laura E. , Terra Vanessa S. , Cuccui Jon , Wren Brendan W.
Published: April 2016

Currently,Streptococcus pneumoniaeis responsible for over 14 million cases of pneumonia worldwide annually, and over 1 million deaths, the majority of them children. The major determinant for pathogenesis is a polysaccharide capsule that is variable and is used to distinguish strains based on their serotype. The capsule forms the basis of the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV23) that contains purified capsular polysaccharide from 23 serotypes, and the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13), containing 13 common serotypes conjugated to CRM197 (mutant diphtheria toxin). Purified capsule fromS. pneumoniaeis required for pneumococcal conjugate vaccine production, and costs can be prohibitively high, limiting accessibility of the vaccine in low-income countries. In this study, we demonstrate the recombinant expression of the capsule-encoding locus from four different serotypes ofS. pneumoniaewithinEscherichia coli. Furthermore, we attempt to identify the minimum set of genes necessary to reliably and efficiently express these capsules heterologously. TheseE. colistrains could be used to produce a supply ofS. pneumoniaeserotype-specific capsules without the need to culture pathogenic bacteria. Additionally, these strains could be applied to synthetic glycobiological applications: recombinant vaccine production usingE. coliouter membrane vesicles or coupling to proteins using protein glycan coupling technology.
Getting to the heart of an unusual kinetochore
Authors: Singleton Martin R.
Published: April 2016

The Mis12 complex forms the central scaffold of the kinetochore and serves to bridge the chromatin and microtubule-binding activities of the inner and outer layers, respectively. Two recent studies provide new structural insights into the formation of this complex, and highlight some intriguing adaptations found in the
Drosophila
kinetochore.
Rising atmospheric CO2is reducing the protein concentration of a floral pollen source essential for North American bees
Authors: Ziska Lewis H. , Pettis Jeffery S. , Edwards Joan , Hancock Jillian E. , Tomecek Martha B. , Clark Andrew , Dukes Jeffrey S. , Loladze Irakli , Polley H. Wayne
Published: April 2016

At present, there is substantive evidence that the nutritional content of agriculturally important food crops will decrease in response to rising levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide,Ca. However, whetherCa-induced declines in nutritional quality are also occurring for pollinator food sources is unknown. Flowering late in the season, goldenrod (Solidagospp.) pollen is a widely available autumnal food source commonly acknowledged by apiarists to be essential to native bee (e.g.Bombusspp.) and honeybee (Apis mellifera) health and winter survival. Using floral collections obtained from the Smithsonian Natural History Museum, we quantifiedCa-induced temporal changes in pollen protein concentration of Canada goldenrod (Solidago canadensis), the most widespreadSolidagotaxon, from hundreds of samples collected throughout the USA and southern Canada over the period 1842–2014 (i.e. aCafrom approx. 280 to 398 ppm). In addition, we conducted a 2 yearin situtrial ofS. canadensispopulations grown along a continuousCagradient from approximately 280 to 500 ppm. The historical data indicated a strong significant correlation between recent increases inCaand reductions in pollen protein concentration (r2= 0.81). Experimental data confirmed this decrease in pollen protein concentration, and indicated that it would be ongoing asCacontinues to rise in the near term, i.e. to 500 ppm (r2= 0.88). While additional data are needed to quantify the subsequent effects of reduced protein concentration for Canada goldenrod on bee health and population stability, these results are the first to indicate that increasingCacan reduce protein content of a floral pollen source widely used by North American bees.
Variance Adaptive Shrinkage (vash): Flexible Empirical Bayes estimation of variances
Authors: Lu Mengyin , Stephens Matthew
Published: April 2016

Motivation

We consider the problem of estimating variances on a large number of “similar” units, when there are relatively few observations on each unit. This problem is important in genomics, for example, where it is often desired to estimate variances for thousands of genes (or some other genomic unit) from just a few measurements on each. A common approach to this problem is to use an Empirical Bayes (EB) method that assumes the variances among genes follow an inverse-gamma distribution. Here we describe a more flexible EB method, whose main assumption is that the distribution of the variances (or, as an alternative, the precisions) is unimodal.

Results

We show that this more flexible assumption provides competitive performance with existing methods when the variances truly come from an inverse-gamma distribution, and can outperform them when the distribution of the variances is more complex. In analyses of several human gene expression datasets from the Genotype Tissues Expression (GTEx) consortium, we find that our more flexible model often fits the data appreciably better than the single inverse gamma distribution. At the same time we find that, for variance estimation, the differences between methods is often small, suggesting that the simpler methods will often suffice in practice.

Availability

Our methods are implemented in an R packagevashravailable fromhttp://github.com/mengyin/vashr.
Using synchrotron radiation inline phase-contrast imaging computed tomography to visualize three-dimensional printed hybrid constructs for cartilage tissue engineering
Authors: Olubamiji Adeola D. , Izadifar Zohreh , Zhu Ning , Chang Tuanjie , Chen Xiongbiao , Eames B. Frank
Published: April 2016

Synchrotron radiation inline phase-contrast imaging combined with computed tomography (SR-inline-PCI-CT) offers great potential for non-invasive characterization and three-dimensional visualization of fine features in weakly absorbing materials and tissues. For cartilage tissue engineering, the biomaterials and any associated cartilage extracellular matrix (ECM) that is secreted over time are difficult to image using conventional absorption-based imaging techniques. For example, three-dimensional printed polycaprolactone (PCL)/alginate/cell hybrid constructs have low, but different, refractive indices and thicknesses. This paper presents a study on the optimization and utilization of inline-PCI-CT for visualizing the components of three-dimensional printed PCL/alginate/cell hybrid constructs for cartilage tissue engineering. First, histological analysis using Alcian blue staining and immunofluorescent staining assessed the secretion of sulfated glycosaminoglycan (GAGs) and collagen type II (Col2) in the cell-laden hybrid constructs over time. Second, optimization of inline PCI-CT was performed by investigating three sample-to-detector distances (SDD): 0.25, 1 and 3 m. Then, the optimal SDD was utilized to visualize structural changes in the constructs over a 42-day culture period. The results showed that there was progressive secretion of cartilage-specific ECM by ATDC5 cells in the hybrid constructs over time. An SDD of 3 m provided edge-enhancement fringes that enabled simultaneous visualization of all components of hybrid constructs in aqueous solution. Structural changes that might reflect formation of ECM also were evident in SR-inline-PCI-CT images. Summarily, SR-inline-PCI-CT images captured at the optimized SDD enables visualization of the different components in hybrid cartilage constructs over a 42-day culture period.
Time- and spatial-resolved XAFS spectroscopy in a single shot: new analytical possibilities forin situmaterial characterization
Authors: Buzanich Ana Guilherme , Radtke Martin , Reinholz Uwe , Riesemeier Heinrich , Emmerling Franziska
Published: April 2016

A new concept that comprises both time- and lateral-resolved X-ray absorption fine-structure information simultaneously in a single shot is presented. This uncomplicated set-up was tested at the BAMline at BESSY-II (Berlin, Germany). The primary broadband beam was generated by a double multilayer monochromator. The transmitted beam through the sample is diffracted by a convexly bent Si (111) crystal, producing a divergent beam. This, in turn, is collected by either an energy-sensitive area detector, the so-called color X-ray camera, or by an area-sensitive detector based on a CCD camera, in θ–2θ geometry. The first tests were performed with thin metal foils and some iron oxide mixtures. A time resolution of lower than 1 s together with a spatial resolution in one dimension of at least 50 µm is achieved.
XAS spectroelectrochemistry: reliable measurement of X-ray absorption spectra from redox manipulated solutions at room temperature
Authors: Best Stephen P. , Levina Aviva , Glover Chris , Johannessen Bernt , Kappen Peter , Lay Peter A.
Published: April 2016

The design and operation of a low-volume spectroelectrochemical cell for X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) of solutions at room temperature is described. Fluorescence XAS measurements are obtained from samples contained in the void space of a 50 µL reticulated vitreous carbon (sponge) working electrode. Both rapid electrosynthesis and control of the effects of photoreduction are achieved by control over the flow properties of the solution through the working electrode, where a good balance between the rate of consumption of sample and the minimization of decomposition was obtained by pulsing the flow of the solution by 1–2 µL with duty cycle of ∼3 s while maintaining a small net flow rate (26–100 µL h−1). The performance of the cell in terms of control of the redox state of the sample and minimization of the effects of photoreduction was demonstrated by XAS measurements of aqueous solutions of the photosensitive FeIIIspecies, [Fe(C2O4)3]3−, together with that of the electrogenerated [Fe(C2O4)3]4−product. The current response from the cell during the collection of XAS spectra provides an independent measure of the stability of the sample of the measurement. The suitability of the approach for the study of small volumes of mMconcentrations of protein samples was demonstrated by the measurement of the oxidized and electrochemically reduced forms of cytochromec.
Estimating the nonlinear effects of female directors on financial performance
Authors: Ming Chen , Hock Eam Lim
Published: April 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the non-linear effects of the presence of women directors on the board on the financial performances of Malaysian companies which undertakes initial public offerings (IPOs). This paper also analyzes the impacts of non-executive directors and independent directors on their company performances.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper traces the effects of gender diversity on the board on the financial performance of a sample of 123 Malaysian companies from the list of 230 companies which have made IPOs and are listed during the period 2005-2012. The multiple regressions (with linear and non-linear specification) are used to estimate the effects of women directors on companies’ performance.

Findings

The results show that presence of women directors on the board do not purport to have any significant linear or non-linear impact on the financial performance of the companies under reference, except for the companies in the top 80th percentile of return on equity. Similarly, strong evidence is also found when the number of women as board members is more than 15 per cent.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of this paper suggest that presence of women directors provides a beneficial impact on the return on equity of companies in Malaysia. Therefore, it is suggested that there should be greater participation of women as board members in the country.

Originality/value

Prior studies tried to estimate linear relationship between the presence of woman directors on company performance. Present study assessed it from three different angles: the sample consists of companies in Malaysia issuing IPOs; possible non-linear relationship is also assessed; and apart from multiple regression, quantile regression technique was also used.
What drives store brand purchases during crisis periods? Evidence from panel data in four product categories
Authors: Diallo Mbaye Fall , kaswengi joseph
Published: April 2016

Purpose

This study investigates how marketing policy and consumer characteristics affect consumer choices of store brands across four product categories during specific crisis periods.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a large set of panel data (N = 80,732), the authors develop dynamic choice models to assess consumers’ choices of store brands during crisis periods.

Findings

Key marketing variables (i.e., price, product quantity, displays, and feature promotions) and consumer characteristics both affect store brand choice significantly. However, crisis intensity moderates the unique relationships of the four marketing variables, consumer characteristics, and store brand choice. Furthermore, the findings vary across product categories, such that the effects differ depending on the product category, because consumers adopt diverse strategies to deal with difficult economic situations.

Research limitations/implications

The findings reveal both theoretical implications for marketing research and managerial orientations for retailers and manufacturers that hope to sell different products in challenging economic situations. A limitation of this research is its failure to include perceptual variables in the analysis.

Originality/value

In contrast with previous studies, this research investigates how crisis intensity affects the relationship of brand choice with both marketing variables and consumer characteristics. It also documents differences between product categories, using a panel data analysis and dynamic modelling.
Channel design to enrich customers’ shopping experiences: synchronizing clicks with bricks in an omni-channel perspective - the Direct Optic case
Authors: Picot-Coupey Karine , Huré Elodie , Piveteau Lauren
Published: April 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this research is two-fold: (1) to investigate the challenges e-tailers are confronted with when synchronizing clicks with bricks into an omni-channel perspective and (2) to shed light on the possible ways to overcome these challenges in order to successfully implement an omni-channel strategy.

Design/methodology/approach

To answer our research questions, we draw on an in-depth longitudinal case study conducted within the French on-line eyewear retailer Direct Optic from January 2013 to March 2015. From an ethnographic perspective, we document the evolution of the retailing company’s decisions and processes as they moved towards defining and implementing an omni-channel strategy. Research was carried out using primary (1500+ hours of participant observation and 118 interviews) and secondary data sources. A conceptualizing content analysis was conducted both manually and with NVivo software.

Findings

First, our results show that the challenges faced in shifting to omni-channel strategy are so numerous and so engaging that, de facto, it is impossible to evolve directly from a multi-channel, siloed strategy to an omni-channel strategy without any transition. Second, throughout this transformative process, our result show that the challenges faced by the company evolved gradually in terms of scope and priority, and can be categorized into two main categories: the strategy-related challenges (organizational, cultural, managerial, marketing and resources) which were the highest priority in the first stage and the development-related challenges (retailing mix, information systems and CRM) which became the highest priority during the second stage.

Research limitations/implications

We emphasize the importance of carefully orchestrating how strategy-related and development-related challenges are addressed as, for retailers engaged in going omni-channel, this involves a complete transformation of their configuration.

Originality/value

Our study contributes to channel management and retailing research by (1) deepening the conceptualization of multi-, cross- and omni-channel retailing, (2) exploring the nature, importance and sequence of the strategy-related challenges and development-related challenges when shifting to an omni-channel strategy, and (3) providing insights into how successfully navigating the transformative process to be omni-channel requires investigating different possible solutions, and further testing and re-testing them, before deploying the appropriate ones. Up to our knowledge, it is one of the first studies to empirically investigate the challenges of an e-tailer when moving towards an omni-channel strategy.
Effect of Sb on wetting behavior of near eutectic Sn-Cu solder micro-alloyed with Ni and Ge
Authors: Nobari Amir Hossein , Maalekian Mehran , Seelig Karl , Pekguleryuz Mihriban
Published: April 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of Sb (0, 0.2 and 2 wt.%) on wetting performance of lead-free solder of near eutectic Sn-Cu micro-alloyed with Ni and Ge.

Design/methodology/approach

The melting characteristic of the lead-free alloys was studied using differential scanning calorimetry. Wettability was examined using wetting balance test for two liquid fluxes, water based and alcohol based in two temperatures 265°C and 277°C. Also, contact angle was measured using sessile drop test.

Findings

It is shown that 0.2 wt.% Sb reduces the melting temperature and pasty range. Moreover, the addition of 0.2 wt.% Sb improves wetting behavior for alcohol-based flux. It is also demonstrated that the effect of Sb on meniscus height in wetting balance test and contact angle in sessile drop test follows the trend of wetting performance.

Originality/value

It is found that adding 0.2 wt.% Sb improves the wettability of Ni-Ge micro-alloyed Sn-Cu solder; however, higher concentration of Sb does not benefit the alloy.
Behçet's disease: A comprehensive review with a focus on epidemiology, etiology and clinical features, and management of mucocutaneous lesions
Authors: Alpsoy Erkan
Published: April 2016

Behçet's disease (BD) is a chronic, relapsing, inflammatory multisystem disease of unknown etiology. Oral ulcers, genital ulcers, cutaneous lesions, and ocular and articular involvement are the most frequent features of the disease. Mucocutaneous lesions are considered hallmarks of the disease, and often precede other manifestations. Therefore, their recognition may permit earlier diagnosis and treatment with beneficial results for prognosis. BD is particularly prevalent in “Silk Route” populations but has a global distribution. The disease usually starts around the third or fourth decade of life. Sex distribution is roughly equal. The diagnosis is based on clinical criteria, as there is no pathognomonic test. Genetic factors have been investigated extensively, and association with human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐B51 is still known as the strongest genetic susceptibility factor. The T‐helper 17 and interleukin (IL)‐17 pathways are active, and play an important role, particularly in acute attacks of BD. Neutrophil activity is increased in BD, and the affected organs show a significant neutrophil and lymphocyte infiltration. HLA‐B51 association and increased IL‐17 response are thought to play a role in neutrophil activation. Treatment is mainly based on the suppression of inflammatory attacks of the disease using immunomodulatory and immunosuppressive agents. Although treatment has become much more effective in recent years with the introduction of newer drugs, BD is still associated with considerable morbidity and increased mortality. Male sex, younger age of onset and increased number of organs involved at the diagnosis are associated with a more severe disease and, therefore, require more aggressive treatment.
A doubtful hope: resource affect in a future oil economy
Authors: Weszkalnys Gisa
Published: April 2016

In global debates about natural resource extraction, affect has played an increasingly prominent, if somewhat nameless, role. This paper proposes a theorization of resource affect both as an intrinsic element of capitalist dynamics and as an object problematized by corporate, government, and third‐sector practice. Drawing on ethnographic research in São Tomé and Príncipe (STP), I explore the affective horizons generated by the prospect of hydrocarbon exploration: a doubtful hope comprised of visions of material betterment, personal and collective transformation, as well as anticipations of failure, friction, and discontent. I also examine the multitude of oil‐related campaigns, activities, and programmes initiated by non‐governmental organizations and global governance institutions in STP, animated by the specific conundrums presented by oil's futurity. In light of this, I argue that what we see emerging is a new resource politics that revolves around not simply the democratic and technical aspects of resource exploitation but increasingly their associated affective dissonances and inconsistencies.
Prognosis past: the temporal politics of disaster in Colombia
Authors: Zeiderman Austin
Published: April 2016

In this paper, I explore a prognostic modality of environmental politics I callrisk in retrospect. I do so by examining conflicts that are not just over the ability of state science to know and govern the future, but also its failure to have been able to do so in the past. I begin by discussing the 2009 earthquake that hit the Italian city of L'Aquila and then turn to a similar case in Colombia, both of which reflect the constitutive relationship between political authority and foresight. I then trace the strong historical precedent for this type of political situation in Colombia by discussing a key cultural referent – Gabriel García Márquez's 1981 book,Chronicle of a death foretold –as well as the convergence of two catastrophic events during one week in November 1985 that were both seen, in their aftermath, as ‘tragedies foretold’. I conclude by considering what it would mean for prognosis to become the terrain on which citizens engage in political relationships with the state.
Nonclinical Safety Assessment ofMorus alba L. Fruits: Study of 90‐D Toxicity in Sprague Dawley Rats and Genotoxicity inSalmonella
Authors: Chang Bo Yoon , Kim Seon Beom , Lee Mi Kyeong , Park Hyun , Kim Sung Yeon
Published: April 2016

Morus alba L. is a traditional herb with a long history of consumption, both as an edible fruit and as medicine. However, its safety evaluation has not yet been established. The objective of this study was to evaluate subchronic oral toxicity and genotoxicity ofM. alba L. fruits (MFE). The subchronic toxicity after daily oral administration of MFE at 0, 40, 200, and 1000 mg/kg for 90 d was examined in Sprague Dawley (SD) rats. MFE administration did not lead to death, adverse effects, change in food and water consumption, and body weight gain. Significant toxic effects were not found within the parameters of organ weight, biochemical values, and hematological and urine analysis between the control and the MFE group. The genotoxicity of MFE was assayed by Ames test inSalmonella typhimuriumstrains TA98, TA102, and TA1535. No genotoxicity was found in all the tested strains. Thus in this study, a no‐observed‐adverse‐effect level for MFE in 90 d repeated oral toxicity study in rats was determined to be greater than 1000 mg/kg regardless of gender. The results also suggested that MFE does not have a genotoxicity potential.
Effects of High Hydrostatic Pressure on the Physical, Microbial, and Chemical Attributes of Oysters (Crassostrea virginica)
Authors: Lingham Talaysha , Ye Mu , Chen Haiqiang , Chintapenta Lathadevi Karuna , Handy Eunice , Zhao Jing , Wu Changqing , Ozbay Gulnihal
Published: April 2016

The change in the quality attributes (physical, microbial, and chemical) of oysters (Crassostrea virginica) after high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) treatment at 300 MPa at room temperature (RT, 25 °C) 300, 450, and 500 MPa at 0 °C for 2 min and control oysters without treatment were evaluated over 3 wk. The texture and tissue yield percentages of oysters HHP treated at 300 MPa, RT increased significantly (P < 0.05) compared to control. Aerobic and psychrotrophic bacteria in control oysters reached the spoilage point of 7 log CFU/g after 15 d. Coliform counts (log MPN/g) were low during storage with total and fecal coliforms less than 3.5 and 1.0. High pressure treated oysters at 500 MPa at 0 °C were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than oysters HHP treated at 300 MPa at 0 °C in lipid oxidation values. The highest pressure (500 MPa) treatment in this study, significantly (P < 0.05) decreased unsaturated fatty acid percentage compared to control. The glycogen content of control oysters at 3 wk was significantly higher (P < 0.05) when compared to HHP treated oysters [300 MPa, (RT); 450 MPa (0 °C); and 500 MPa (0 °C)]. HHP treatments of oysters were not significantly different in pH, percent salt extractable protein (SEP), and total lipid values compared to control. Based on our results, HHP prolongs the physical, microbial, and chemical quality of oysters.
Potent Antidiabetic Activity and Metabolite Profiling of Melicope Lunu‐ankenda Leaves
Authors: AL‐Zuaidy Mizher Hezam , Hamid Azizah Abdul , Ismail Amin , Mohamed Suhaila , Abdul Razis Ahmad Faizal , Mumtaz Muhammad Waseem , Salleh Syafiq Zikri
Published: April 2016

Diabetes mellitus is normally characterized by chronic hyperglycemia associated with disturbances in the fat, carbohydrate, and protein metabolism. There is an increasing trend of using natural products instead of synthetic agents as alternative therapy for disorders due to their fewer side effects. In this study, antidiabetic and antioxidant activities of different Melicope lunu‐ankenda (ML) ethanolic extracts were evaluated using inhibition of α‐glucosidase and 2,2‐diphenyl‐l‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals scavenging activity, respectively; whereas, proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) and ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometric (UHPLC‐MS/MS) techniques were used for metabolite profiling of ML leaf extracts at different concentrations of ethanol and water. Sixty percent of ethanolic ML extract showed highest inhibitory effect against α‐glucosidase enzyme (IC50 of 37 μg/mL) and DPPH scavenging activity (IC50 of 48 μg/mL). Antidiabetic effect of ML extracts was also evaluated in vivo and it was found that the high doses (400 mg/Kg BW) of ML extract exhibited high suppression in fasting blood glucose level by 62.75%. The metabolites responsible for variation among ML samples with variable ethanolic levels have been evaluated successfully using 1H‐NMR–based metabolomics. The principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares(PLS) analysis scores depicted clear and distinct separations into 4 clusters representing the 4 ethanolic concentrations by PC1 and PC2, with an eigenvalue of 69.9%. Various 1H‐NMR chemical shifts related to the metabolites responsible for sample difference were also ascribed. The main bioactive compounds identified attributing toward the separation included: isorhamnetin, skimmianine, scopoletin, and melicarpinone. Hence, ML may be used as promising medicinal plant for the development of new functional foods, new generation antidiabetic drugs, as a single entity phytomedicine or in combinational therapy.
The Hypolipidemic Effect of Total Saponins from Kuding Tea in High‐Fat Diet‐Induced Hyperlipidemic Mice and Its Composition Characterized by UPLC‐QTOF‐MS/MS
Authors: Song Chengwu , Yu Qingsong , Li Xiaohua , Jin Shuna , Li Sen , Zhang Yang , Jia Shuailong , Chen Cheng , Xiang Yi , Jiang Hongliang
Published: April 2016

Kuding tea are used as a traditional tea material and widely consumed in China. In this study, total saponins (TS) from water extract of Kuding tea was prepared by D101 macroporous resins and analyzed by UPLC‐QTOF‐MS/MS. Then the hypolipidemic effect of TS extract was investigated in high‐fat diet‐induced hyperlipidemic mice. For comprehensive identification or characterization of saponins in TS extract, 3 major saponins of Kudinoside A, Kudinoside F, and Kudinoside D were isolated and used as standards to investigate the MS/MS fragmentation pattern. As a result, 52 saponins were identified or characterized in TS extract from Kuding tea. In addition, the increased levels of mice serum TC, LDL‐C, HDL‐C, and atherogenic index (AI) were significantly reduced after the treatment of TS extract. Also, the liver protective effect of TS extract was obviously judged from the photographs stained with oil red‐O staining. Meanwhile, TS extract significantly upregulated the expression of hepatic scavenger receptors including SR‐AI, SR‐BI, and CD36. Therefore, it is reasonable to assume that the overexpression of hepatic scavenger receptors was involved in the hypolipidemic effect of Kuding tea on the high‐fat diet‐induced hyperlipidemic mice. The TS extract could influence these scavenger receptors, and this could be the potential mechanism of TS extract from Kuding tea in the treatment of lipid disorders. These results give the evidence that the saponins in Kuding tea could provide benefits in managing hypercholesterolemia and may be a good candidate for development as a functional food and nutraceutical.
Muscle rupture associated with statin use
Authors: Ekhart Corine , de Jong Loek , Gross‐Martirosyan Liana , van Hunsel Florence
Published: April 2016

AIM

Statins are used in the treatment of hyperlipidaemia. They are among the most commonly prescribed drugs worldwide. Statins have been linked to musculoskeletal adverse drug reactions. However muscle rupture has not been discussed as an adverse drug reaction to statins so far. The aim of this article is to give an overview of cases of muscle rupture associated with the use of statins.

METHOD

We analyzed the cases of muscle rupture associated with the use of statins that were collected by the Netherlands Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb complemented with the review of cases from the EudraVigilance database.

RESULTS

Fifteen cases of muscle rupture associated with statin use have been identified in the database of the Netherlands Pharmacovigilance Centre. Overall, there was a plausible temporal association of events in most cases. In addition, the EudraVigilance database contained 165 reports of muscle rupture reported in patients using statins. Muscle rupture was disproportionally associated with statin use in both databases. The reporting odds ratio was 23.4 (95% CI 11.9, 46.0) and 14.6 (95% CI 12.3, 17.2), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Data from spontaneous reporting systems suggest that use of statins is associated with muscle rupture. Physicians and patients should be aware that this can occur.
An update on PPAR activation by cannabinoids
Authors: O'Sullivan Saoirse Elizabeth
Published: April 2016

Some cannabinoids activate the different isoforms of PPARs (α, β and γ), as shown through the use of reporter gene assays, binding studies, selective antagonists and knockout studies. Activation of all isoforms, but primarily PPARα and γ, mediates some (but not all) of the analgesic, neuroprotective, neuronal function modulation, anti‐inflammatory, metabolic, anti‐tumour, gastrointestinal and cardiovascular effects of some cannabinoids, often in conjunction with activation of the more traditional target sites of action such as the cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors and the TRPV1 ion channel. PPARs also mediate some of the effects of inhibitors of endocannabinoid degradation or transport. Cannabinoids may be chaperoned to the PPARs by fatty acid binding proteins. The aims of this review are to update the evidence supporting PPAR activation by cannabinoids and to review the physiological responses to cannabinoids that are mediated, and not mediated, by PPAR activation.
Use of wide‐screen, high‐definition monitors for improving adenoma detection: A prospective, randomized, controlled trial
Authors: Mills Douglas , Spyratos Tilemahos , Haider Ali , Sulo Suela , Laurie Timothy
Published: April 2016

Background and Aim

Colonoscopy is sensitive at detecting large polyps; however, a significant polyp miss rate is still recognized. Indicators such as the adenoma detection rate (ADR) and, more recently, the adenoma per colonoscopy rate (APC) are increasingly used to ensure quality in colonoscopy. We carried out a prospective, randomized, controlled study evaluating improvement in adenoma detection between wide‐screen, high‐definition (WSHD) monitors compared to standard monitors (SD).

Methods

Patients undergoing screening or surveillance colonoscopy were randomized to a WSHD room or SD. Polyp size, location, shape, and histology were recorded. Right‐sided polyps were considered to be those proximal to the splenic flexure.

Results

A total of 152 patients were enrolled in the study, with 78 (51.3%) and 74 (48.7%) enrolled in the WSHD and SD groups, respectively. A 10% absolute difference in favor of the WSHD group was noted for the ADR (41% vs 31% patients); however, the difference was statistically not significant. In the WSHD and SD groups, APC of 0.9 ± 1.4 versus 0.7 ± 1.4 (P = 0.49) were noted, respectively. For polyps <5 mm, an ADR of 0.3 ± 0.4 versus 0.2 ± 0.4 (P = 0.34) and APC of 0.5 ± 1.1 versus 0.2 ± 0.5 (P = 0.06) were seen in the WSHD and SD groups.

Conclusion

This study shows a trend toward improvement in ADR, with an increase in APC for small adenomas that approaches statistical significance. WSHD monitors are a one‐time, low‐cost intervention for improving the quality of colonoscopy with potentially favorable outcomes.
Survey on fatigue strength of cast bronzes intended for marine propellers
Authors: Bertoglio C. , Rizzo C. M.
Published: April 2016

The proper characterization of cast materials is rather challenging because of wide deviations of material features due to the fabrication process.

In the frame of propeller design, a recently proposed fatigue assessment procedure highlighted the need of reliable fatigue strength characterization of cast bronzes. With the aim of obtaining reference S–N curves to support the fatigue assessment of propeller blades and to evaluate the effect on fatigue strength of the most influencing parameters, a comprehensive literature survey was carried out. It appeared that fatigue strength of cast bronzes is quite challenging to evaluate, firstly, because the properties may considerably differ from small specimens to real blades and, secondly, because relatively few experimental data are openly available.