bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Singlish or Globish: Multiple language ideologies and global identities among Korean educational migrants in Singapore1
Authors: Kang Yoonhee
Published: April 2012

South Korean early study abroad students and their parents in Singapore negotiate and redefine the values of Mandarin, English, and Singlish used in Singapore in an attempt to forge their own transnational identities. In this process, these Korean migrants tend to place more emphasis on metapragmatic discourses; that is,howto speak the languages appropriately. They then use such metapragmatic evaluations to justify their use of the local varieties and practices of language in Singapore. Their discourses are based on two language ideologies –pragmatismandsociolinguistic competence – which are examined here as alternative forms of language legitimacy that coexist with the dominant notion of legitimate language. These multiple language ideologies provide the basis for Korean migrants’ emerging notions of the ‘Asian global,’ a desirable transnational subject who is more practical and sociocentric than the conventional image of high‐ranking elites, with greater adaptability to various local situations.

조기유학을 위해 싱가포르로 이주해온 한국인 가족들은, 자신들의 세계적 정체성을 형성하는 과정에서, 영어, 중국어, 싱글리쉬의 세가지 언어에 대하여 다양한 가치와 태도를 보인다. 이러한 정체성 형성 과정에서, 한국인 조기유학 이주민들은 그들의 메타화용론적 담론, 즉 무슨 언어를 사용할 수 있는가 보다는, 어떻게 언어를 사회적으로 적절하게 구사하는가에 대해 더욱 강조하며, 이러한 평가는 동시에 싱가포르 내에서 사용되는 지역적 언어변이와 그 사용양식을 정당화하는 주요 기제가 된다. 나아가 이러한 메타화용적 담론은 실용주의와 사회언어적 능력의 중시라는 두 가지 언어이데올로기에 의해 매개되며, 이러한 대체적 언어이데올로기는 보다 공식적인 언어이데올로기와 공존하고 있다. 한편, 한국이주민들이 가지고 있는 다중 언어이데올로기는 이들이 새롭게 제시하는 ‘아시아적 세계인’의 모습, 즉 기존의 개인주의적이고 서구 중심적인 상층 엘리트의 이미지와는 다른, 보다 실용주의적이고 사회중심적이며, 어떠한 사회적 변화에도 유연하게 잘 적응할 수 있는 이상적인 초국가적 주체의 모습을 반영한다. [Korean]
Global fatigue: Transnational markets, linguistic capital, and Korean‐American male English teachers in South Korea1
Authors: Cho John (Song Pae)
Published: April 2012

Mass migration characterizes the current moment of globalization. Constituting a particular subset of this global migration are Korean‐American male English teachers who use the linguistic capital of English, commodified as the language of international communication, to exit from the United States and to return to South Korea as linguistic migrants, where they reassert their patriarchal privilege as Korean men. In the highly gendered and racialized Korean English language market, however, they must prove their ‘native English speaker’ status. Remaining oriented towards the U.S. as their proper home, they also continually defer leaving South Korea as it means giving up the privileges of being a male English speaker and become stuck in a life of leisureandaimlessness. As the shadow of neoliberal globalization deepens and their linguistic capital becomes devalued with the return of more Koreans from abroad, their feelings of being stuck turn into global fatigue.

일반 대중들의 대규모 이동은 오늘날 지구화/세계화의 특징적 현상이다. 이러한 전지구적 이주의 한 부분을 구성하는 집단으로 이 연구는 특별히 남성 재미교포 영어교사들에 주목한다. 지구화 시대의 국제 언어로 상품화된 영어 자본은 이들이 미국으로부터 탈출하여 남성으로서 가부장적 특권을 누릴 수 있는 한국사회로 언어적인 이주자로 되돌아 갈 수 있는 기회를 제공해준다. 그러나 성별, 인종 별로 고도로 세분화되고 차등화된 산업구조를 발달시켜온 한국의 영어교육 시장 안에서 이들은 ‘영어 모국어 사용자’로서의 지위를 다시금 증명해야만 한다. 언제고 다시 되돌아 가야 할 자신들의 진정한 고향은 미국이라고 주장하면서도, 계속해서 미국으로의 귀환을 미루는 이면에는 한국사회에서 남성이자 영어모국어 사용자로서 누려온 특권을 포기하지 못한 채, 유흥과 목적 없는 한국생활에 갇혀 버린 현실이 있다. 그러나 신자유주의적 세계화의 그늘이 점점 깊어가고, 외국에서 교육받고 한국으로 되돌아오는 영어에 능통한 한국인들이 늘어나면서 자신들의 영어자본의 가치가 점점 떨어지는 것을 지켜보며, 이들이 느끼는 정체감은 다시 세계화에 대한 불안과 피로감으로 바뀌게 된다. [Korean]
Pension privatisation in Greater China: Institutional patterns and policy outcomes
Authors: Shi Shih‐Jiunn , Mok Ka‐Ho
Published: April 2012

Shi S‐J, Mok K‐H. Pension privatisation in Greater China: institutional patterns and policy outcomes

This article examines rationales and processes for pension privatisation in Taiwan, Hong Kong and mainland China since the 1990s. It argues that the configurations of the public/private pension mix in the three cases are related to their respective political‐economic development. To achieve the reform of state‐owned enterprises and labour markets, mainland China's pension reforms have concentrated on the combination of social pooling and individual accounts. Taiwan's reforms have rectified the Labour Insurance scheme and established individual accounts in order to alleviate enterprises' financial burdens while facilitating labour force mobility. Hong Kong has strengthened its service industry in favour of financial market fluidity, corresponding to a pro‐market approach that prefers mandatory provident funds as the major pension scheme for workers. The diversification of pension privatisation manifests manifold institutional changes of old‐age security, and raises an essential governance issue for the regulation of funded pension provision to ensure adequate income for older people.
Visible skin colouration predicts perception of male facial age, health and attractiveness
Authors: Fink B. , Bunse L. , Matts P. J. , D’Emiliano D.
Published: April 2012

Synopsis

Although there is evidence that perception of facial age, health and attractiveness is informed by shape characteristics as well as by visible skin condition, studies on the latter have focused almost exclusively on female skin. Recent research, however, suggests that a decrease in skin colour homogeneity leads to older, less healthy and less attractive ratings of facial skin in both women and men. Here, we elaborate on the significance of the homogeneity of visible skin colouration in men by testing the hypothesis that perception of age, health and attractiveness of (non‐contextual) digitally isolated fields of cheek skin only can predict that of whole facial images. Facial digital images of 160 British men (all Caucasian) aged between 10 and 70 were blind‐rated for age, health and attractiveness by a total of 147 men and 154 women (mean age = 22.95, SD = 4.26), and these ratings were related to those of corresponding images of cheek skin reported by Fink et al. (J. Eur. Acad. Dermatol. Venereol. in press). Linear regression analysis showed that age, health and attractiveness perception of men’s faces could be predicted by the ratings of cheek skin only, such that older men were viewed as older, less healthy and less attractive. This result underlines once again the potent signalling role of skin in its own right, independent of shape or other factors and suggests strongly that visible skin condition, and skin colour homogeneity in particular, plays a significant role in the perception of men’s faces.
Lemon (Citrus limon, Burm.f.) essential oil enhances the trans‐epidermal release of lipid‐ (A, E) and water‐ (B6, C) soluble vitamins from topical emulsions in reconstructed human epidermis
Authors: Valgimigli L. , Gabbanini S. , Berlini E. , Lucchi E. , Beltramini C. , Bertarelli Y. L.
Published: April 2012

Synopsis

Topical bioavailability of lipid‐ and water‐soluble vitamins is a critical issue for protecting or anti‐ageing formulations. Using 17‐day‐old SkinEthic® reconstructed human epidermis, we investigated (at 34°C) the role of lemon EO in enhancing the penetration of α‐tocopherol (E) and retinyl acetate (A), pyridoxine (B6) and ascorbic acid (C), released from O/W or W/O emulsions. D‐limonene, α‐pinene and p‐cymene (65.9, 2.2 and 0.5%w/w of the oil) had skin permeability coefficients Ps (10−3 cm h−1) of 0.56 ± 0.03 (or 0.73 ± 0.02), 0.72 ± 0.05 (or 0.98 ± 0.05) and 0.84 ± 0.04 (or 1.14 ± 0.04), respectively, when incorporated in a W/O (or O/W) emulsion. Vitamins B6, C and A had Ps values of (3.0 ± 0.4) × 10−3, (7.9 ± 0.6) × 10−3 and (0.37 ± 0.02) × 10−5 cm h−1, respectively, and their flux through the skin was enhanced by a factor of 4.1, 3.4 and 5.8, respectively, in the presence of lemon EO. The penetration of vitamin E was nine‐fold enhanced. Lemon EO produced only reversible modification of TEWL, and it is a safe and effective penetration enhancer for topical administration of lipid‐ and water‐soluble vitamins.
Keratin‐based peptide: biological evaluation and strengthening properties on relaxed hair
Authors: Fernandes M. M. , Lima C. F. , Loureiro A. , Gomes A. C. , Cavaco‐Paulo A.
Published: April 2012

Synopsis

A peptide based on a fragment of hair keratin type II cuticular protein, keratin peptide (KP), was studied as a possible strengthening agent for weakened relaxed hair. The peptide was prepared both in aqueous water formulation (WF) and organic solvent formulations (OF), to determine the effect of organic solvents on peptide interaction with hair and the differences in hair recovery. Both peptide formulations were shown to improve mechanical and thermal properties of weakened hair with peptide in OF showing the stronger effect. As a potential new hair care product, and so would necessitate contact with skin, the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of the peptide were also evaluated through different methodologies (Alamar Blue assay, 2′‐7′‐dichlorofluorescein probe, cell morphology and growth and evaluation of DNA damage by an alkaline version of the comet assay) in skin fibroblasts. These tests are indicators of the potential of peptide to cause irritation on skin or to be carcinogenic, respectively. The peptide in WF did not cause cytotoxicity or genotoxicity in any of the concentrations tested. The presence of OF, however, induced a 20% decrease in cell viability in all of the range of concentrations used after 72‐h incubation. Moreover, OF inhibited cell growth and was considered genotoxic at first contact with cells. The peptide was therefore considered a promising strengthening agent for hair and was shown to be innocuous when applied in WF.
Microdeletions detected using chromosome microarray in children with suspected genetic movement disorders: a single‐centre study
Authors: DALE RUSSELL C , GRATTAN‐SMITH PADRAIC , NICHOLSON MICHELLE , PETERS GREG B
Published: April 2012

Aim  Chromosome microarray (CMA) can determine copy number variants such as microdeletions or microduplications. Microdeletions of movement disorder genes including epsilon‐sarcoglycan (SGCE) and thyroid transcription factor‐1 (TITF1) have been described in patients with myoclonus dystonia and benign hereditary chorea respectively. We examined whether CMA is a valuable tool in the investigation of children with suspected genetic movement disorders.

Method  A genetic movement disorder was suspected if there was a positive first‐degree family history, or two or more of the following factors: normal or near‐normal magnetic resonance imaging, negative history of brain injury, and negative investigations for metabolic disorders. Tic disorders were excluded. Twenty‐five patients (18 males, seven females) with a mean age at movement disorder onset of 4 years 5 month (range 1mo–14y) were prospectively recruited with the following primary movement disorders: dystonia (n=10), paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesia (n=5), tremor (n=4), chorea (n=3), myoclonus (n=2), and paroxysmal non‐kinesigenic dyskinesia (n=1). Comorbid associated features were common, particularly developmental delay or intellectual disability (19 out of 25) and attention‐deficit–hyperactivity disorder (six out of 25). CMA was performed using Agilent aCGH 60K array.

Results  Seven out of twenty‐five patients had a microdeletion determined by CMA. None of the microdeletions were considered benign variants. Four patients had a deletion of a known movement disorder gene including paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesia (PRRT2; n=2), SGCE (myoclonus dystonia, n=1), and TITF1 (benign hereditary chorea, n=1). Three patients had novel microdeletions of unknown but potential significance including 14q13.3 (chorea, n=1), 19p13.12 (tremor, n=1), and 19q13.12 (progressive dystonia). All seven patients had associated neurodevelopmental or behavioural problems.

Interpretation  Assays that determine copy number variants may be a valuable first‐tier investigation in patients with suspected genetic movement disorders, particularly when associated with intellectual disability or developmental disorders. Microdeletion syndromes may help the search for new movement disorder genes.
Heavy metal concentrations in raw milk collected from different regions of Samsun, Turkey
Authors: TEMIZ HASAN , SOYLU ARZU
Published: April 2012

In this study, 144 raw milk samples were analysed for heavy metal contamination derived from emissions from industrial operations in Tekkekoy, Samsun, Turkey. Cu, Fe, Zn, Cr, Ni, Cd, As and Pb levels in samples were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS). The average amounts of copper, chromium, iron, zinc, nickel, cadmium, arsenic and lead were determined as 1.130, 0.441, 12.920, 0.032, 0.483, 0.006, 0.003 and 0.004 mg/kg, respectively. It was determined that the summer period has the highest levels for copper, lead and cadmium. The highest contents of arsenic and copper were found at the two industrial regions that were close to Black Sea, described as ‘1st’ and ‘2nd’ region. Whereas the 3rd and 4th regions that were far from an industrial zone and also from the Black Sea, nickel, lead and chromium had the highest levels.
Parent experiences of a specialist intervention service for mental health difficulties in children with autistic spectrum disorder
Authors: Kingston Cara , Hibberd Charlotte , Ozsivadjian Ann
Published: April 2012

Background

Mental health problems are increasingly being recognised as a significant health need for people with autism spectrum disorder, but few specialist services are available. This study explored parents’ experiences of a specialist autism spectrum psychological intervention service located within a broader Neurodevelopmental and Social Communication Disorders Team.

Method

Forty‐nine parents completed a telephone based survey designed to assess experiences of a specialist intervention service.

Results

High levels of satisfaction were reported. Parents reported aspects of the service that they found most useful.

Conclusion

Most parents reported satisfaction with the service and suggested improvements were used to guide service development.
UV‐assisted screen‐printing of flat textiles
Authors: Kozicki Marek , Sąsiadek Elżbieta
Published: April 2012

An approach to printing of flat textiles is presented in this work. A screen‐printing method was applied on a cotton fabric. An aqueous printing paste was prepared from thickening and crosslinking agents and an ultraviolet‐sensitive tetrazole ring‐based compound of 2,3,5‐triphenyltetrazolium chloride or nitrotetrazolium blue chloride. After the printing process, a pattern was just visible with the naked eye. The development of colour occurred after exposure of the textile to ultraviolet light of 253.7 nm and was caused by the transformation of 2,3,5‐triphenyltetrazolium chloride or nitrotetrazolium blue chloride salts into the corresponding formazans, which are insoluble in water. The printed designs were resistant to washing. The stability of the colour of the samples is discussed in the case of prolonged irradiation, both with ultraviolet light of 253.7 nm and with daylight. This method of printing is a recent proposition for creative textile designing. It also seems to indicate a likely type of dye that may be further developed as potentially attractive for ultraviolet‐assisted printing or dyeing of textiles.
The Many Sided Opportunity of Field Nursing
Authors: Brainard Annie M.
Published: April 2012

In 1916, when Annie Brainard published this paper, there was an ongoing discussion in the journal about specialization versus generalization of public health nursing (PHN) work. This discussion revolved around issues such as the size of communities (rural versus urban), population density, and cost effectiveness. For geographically large rural communities with low population density, specialization could be costly, while for urban, densely populated communities specialization based on scientific knowledge could have a stronger impact on population health. As Brainard indicates in this paper, specialization in PHN was not about additional education, but rather concentration of effort. Early specialization usually focused on tuberculosis, baby care, and school nursing. In this article, Brainard argued that there was a need for both specialist and generalist public health nurses, and co‐operation was needed between the two groups to avoid costly duplication of efforts.
Incomplete Endothelialization of Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion Device 10 Months After Implantation
Authors: MASSARENTI LUCA , YILMAZ ALAADDIN
Published: April 2012

Incomplete Endothelialization of Left Atrial Appendage. We describe the case of a 74‐year‐old man with Rendu Osler Weber syndrome affected by permanent atrial fibrillation, who underwent percutaneous placement of a 24‐mm Watchman left atrial appendage system. After anticoagulation therapy dismissal, he had a transient ischemic attack (TIA). Therefore he underwent surgical removal of the device, ablation of atrial fibrillation with Maze IV procedure and biatrial reduction. Very interestingly, no significant endothelialization of the device was observed 10 months after implantation. In conclusion, this case is important because, to our knowledge, it is the first finding of Watchman device with lack of endothelialization. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 23, pp. 1384‐1385, December 2012)
Neotypification and Ontogenesis of Leptopharynx costatus costatus Mermod, 1914
Authors: Omar Atef , Foissner Wilhelm
Published: April 2012

Using standard methods, we studied the morphology and ontogenesis of a German Leptopharynx costatus costatus. This population makes two morphs: microstomes with a size of 40 × 25 μm, about 190 basal bodies, and 5 μm wide oral basket; and macrostomes with a size of 55 × 40 μm, about 264 basal bodies, and 15 μm wide oral basket. Because the identity is threatened, this population is designated as the neotype of L. costatus costatus. Ontogenesis is complex due to the preoral kineties and the postoral complex produced by kineties 9 and 10. Stomatogenesis is mixokinetal: the opisthe membranelles 1 and 2 are formed by the oral primordium, whereas membranelle 3 is produced by the posterior portion of somatic kinety 1. The nasse kinetosomes are generated by the anterior portion of the oral primordium. Preoral kineties 1 and 3 develop de novo, while kinety 2 originates by intrakinetal proliferation of kinety 8; preoral kinety 4 is produced by the postoral complex, thus being a somatic kinety. Kinety 6 has two anterior kinetids in line with kinety 7. These observations require changes in the descriptive morphology, support the classification of Leptopharynx into the Microthoracidae, and sustain the nonmonophyly of the Nassophorea.
Testing of Brushite (CaHPO4·2H2O) in Synthetic Biomineralization Solutions and In Situ Crystallization of Brushite Micro‐Granules
Authors: Miller Matthew A. , Kendall Matthew R. , Jain Manoj K. , Larson Preston R. , Madden Andrew S. , Tas A. Cuneyt
Published: April 2012

Conventional flat plate‐shaped brushite, dicalcium phosphate dihydrate, CaHPO4·2H2O), produced by reacting Ca‐chloride and alkali phosphate salt solutions, were found to undergo a maturation process (changing their Ca/P molar ratio from 0.8 to the theoretical value of 1) similar to those seen in biological apatites. Water lily (WL)‐shaped brushite crystals were produced in nonstirred aqueous solutions at room temperature in 24 h, by using precipitated calcite and NH4H2PO4 as the starting chemicals. The hydrothermal transformation of WL‐type brushite into octacalcium phosphate (OCP) or Ca‐deficient hydroxyapatite (CDHA) was tested at 37°C by using four different biomineralization solutions, including Tris‐buffered SBF (synthetic body fluid) and sodium lactate‐buffered SBF solutions. All four solutions used in this study consumed the starting brushite in 1 week and caused transformation into a biphasic mixture of nanocrystalline OCP and CDHA of high surface area. WL‐type brushite crystals when synthesized in the presence of small amounts of Zn2+ ions resulted in the formation of, for the first time, spherical micro‐granules of brushite. Synthesis of brushite in spherical form was difficult prior to this study.
Current patch test results with the European baseline series and extensions to it from the ‘European Surveillance System on Contact Allergy’ network, 2007–2008
Authors: Uter Wolfgang , Aberer Werner , Armario‐Hita José Carlos , Fernandez‐Vozmediano José M. , Ayala Fabio , Balato Anna , Bauer Andrea , Ballmer‐Weber Barbara , Beliauskiene Aiste , Fortina Anna Belloni , Bircher Andreas , Brasch Jochen , Chowdhury Mahbub M. U. , Coenraads Pieter‐Jan , Schuttelaar Marie‐Louise , Cooper Sue , Czarnecka‐Operacz Magda , Zmudzinska Maria , Elsner Peter , English John S. C. , Frosch Peter J. , Fuchs Thomas , García‐Gavín Juan , Fernández‐Redondo Virginia , Gawkrodger David J. , Giménez‐Arnau Ana , Green Cathy M. , Horne Helen L. , Johansen Jeanne Duus , Jolanki Riitta , Pesonen Maria , King Clodagh M. , Krêcisz Beata , Chomiczewska Dorota , Kiec‐Swierczynska Marta , Larese Francesca , Mahler Vera , Ormerod Anthony D. , Peserico Andrea , Rantanen Tapio , Rustemeyer Thomas , Sánchez‐Pérez Javier , Sansom Jane E. , Silvestre Juan Fco. , Simon Dagmar , Spiewak Radoslaw , Statham Barry N. , Stone Natalie , Wilkinson Mark , Schnuch Axel
Published: April 2012

Background. The pattern of contact sensitization to the supposedly most important allergens assembled in the baseline series differs between countries, presumably at least partly because of exposure differences.

Objectives. To describe the prevalence of contact sensitization to allergens tested in consecutive patients in the years 2007 and 2008, and to discuss possible differences.

Methods. Data from the 39 departments in 11 European countries comprising the European Surveillance System on Contact Allergy network (www.essca‐dc.org) in this period have been pooled and analysed according to common standards.

Results. Patch test results with the European baseline series, and country‐specific or department‐specific additions to it, obtained in 25 181 patients, showed marked international variation. Metals and fragrances are still the most frequent allergens across Europe. Some allergens tested nationally may be useful future additions to the European baseline series, for example methylisothiazolinone, whereas a few long‐term components of the European baseline series, namely primin and clioquinol, no longer warrant routine testing.

Conclusions. The present analysis points to ‘excess’ prevalences of specific contact sensitization in some countries, although interpretation must be cautious if only few, and possibly specialized, centres are representing one country. A comparison as presented may help to target in‐depth research into possible causes of ‘excess’ exposure, and/or consideration of methodological issues, including modifications to the baseline series.
Update on incretin hormones
Authors: Phillips Liza K. , Prins Johannes B.
Published: April 2012

The incretin hormones glucagon‐like‐peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) and glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) are released from the intestine following oral ingestion of nutrients. Incretins promote insulin secretion, while GLP‐1 also inhibits glucagon release and gastric emptying, minimizing postprandial glucose excursions. The incretins share similar effects on the pancreatic β cell; however, there are a number of differences in extrapancreatic actions. Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is associated with abnormal incretin physiology, and although treatment with GIP is ineffective, GLP‐1 effects are preserved. The current incretin‐based approaches to T2DM include the GLP‐1 agonists that are resistant to the serine protease dipeptidylpeptidase‐4 (DPP4), which normally rapidly degrades the incretins, and DPP4 inhibitors (DPP4i). Incretin‐based treatments have provoked much interest due to use‐associated weight loss (GLP‐1 agonists), minimal hypoglycemia, and potential for positive effects on pancreatic β cell biology and the cardiovascular system. However, the long‐term safety of these agents has yet to be established. This review outlines the current understanding of incretin biology, available data pertaining to incretin‐based treatment in T2DM, and differences between GLP‐1 and DPP4i therapy.
Distribution and Spatial Trends of PCBs in Commercial Scallops from Galician Littoral (NW, Spain). Possible Influence of Biometric Parameters
Authors: Carro N. , García I. , Ignacio M. , Mouteira A.
Published: April 2012

Abstract:  Levels and profiles of 10 individual congeners of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were studied in 3 species of commercial scallops (Pecten maximus, Chlamys varia, and Chlamys opercularis) from several Rías in Galician littoral (NW, Spain). ΣPCBs levels ranged from 2.21 to 41.0 ng/g wet weight for P. maximus, from 13.9 to 24.9 ng/g wet weight for C. varia, and from 1.58 to 24.3 ng/g wet weight for C. opercularis. The possible influence between biometric parameters (lipid content, condition index, and shell size) and PCBs levels were studied using statistical analysis (ANOVA). No relationship between biometric parameters could be established in the studied samples. Multivariate analysis showed there were differences in bioaccumulation of some PCBs congeners. Principal component analysis classifies clearly the 3 studied Rías (Ría de Ferrol, Ría de Arousa, and Ría de Vigo) taking into account PCBs levels found in the shellfish.

Practical Applications:  We investigated levels and profiles of 10 congeners of PCBs in 3 commercial scallop species from the Galician littoral zone. The influence of 3 biometric parameters on polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) levels was also studied in order to assess results from the monitoring programs of production areas. According to PCBs levels, geographical differences were observed in commercial scallops from the 3 studied estuarine bays (Ría de Ferrol, Ría de Arousa, and Ría de Vigo).
Volatile Compounds of Black Cumin Seeds (Nigella sativa L.) from Microwave‐Heating and Conventional Roasting
Authors: Kiralan Mustafa
Published: April 2012

Abstract:  The volatile compounds in raw, conventionally roasted and microwave roasted black cumin (Nigella sativa L.) seeds at 0.45 kW for 2, 4, and 8 min, were analyzed by headspace‐SPME gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Among the 38 volatile compounds identified, the major compounds were thymoquinone and p‐cymene in all samples. The levels of these compounds decreased with roasting. However, concentrations of pyrazines and furans increased significantly as a result of roasting and these compounds may affect the flavor of roasted black cumin seeds. Methyl pyrazine and 2,5‐dimethylpyrazine were major pyrazines, formed at high concentration in seeds roasted for 8 min and in conventional roasting.
State of Knowledge on Amaranth Grain: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Caselato‐Sousa Valéria Maria , Amaya‐Farfán Jaime
Published: April 2012

Abstract:  Amaranth grain is a highly nutritional pseudocereal with a superior amount of proteins when compared to true cereals. It is a reasonably well‐balanced food with functional properties that have been shown to provide medicinal benefits. The health benefits attributed include decreasing plasma cholesterol levels, stimulating the immune system, exerting an antitumor activity, reducing blood glucose levels and improving conditions of hypertension and anemia. In addition, it has been reported to possess anti‐allergic and antioxidant activities. The present article provides a comprehensive overview of amaranth grain that focuses on recent research reporting its use in the clinical practice and its possible benefits to human health.
Dry Fermented Sausages of Southern Italy: A Comparison of Free Amino Acids and Biogenic Amines between Industrial and Homemade Products
Authors: Leggio Antonella , Belsito Emilia L. , Marco Rosaria De , Di Gioia Maria L. , Liguori Angelo , Siciliano Carlo , Spinella Mariagiovanna
Published: April 2012

Abstract:  This paper compares some important parameters and the free amino acid and biogenic amine contents of cured industrial and homemade meat products. To this aim, industrial and homemade “soppressata” and “salsiccia”, typical dry fermented sausages produced in Southern Italy, were analyzed. The homemade sausages showed a higher level of free biogenic amines than that manufactured industrially, most likely because biogenic amine formation in industrial products is limited by the use of starter cultures. The industrial sausages are characterized by a higher total free amino acid content than the homemade products. Overall, free amino acid and biogenic amine contents demonstrated that appreciable differences exist between homemade and industrial sausages.
Effect of Age on Outcome on Patients Hospitalized With Heart Failure: From a 20‐Year Registry in a Middle‐Eastern Country (1991–2010)
Authors: Al Suwaidi Jassim , Asaad Nidal , Al‐Qahtani Awad , El‐Menyar Ayman , Al‐Mulla Abdul Wahid , Singh Rajvir , AlBinali Hajar A.
Published: April 2012

©2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The association between age, risk factors, and outcome of non‐Caucasian patients hospitalized with heart failure (HF) is not clear. A total of 7066 consecutive patients hospitalized with HF at Hamad General Hospital, Doha, Qatar, from 1991 through 2010 were studied. Patients were divided into 3 groups according to age: group 1, 50 years and younger; group 2, older than 50 and up to 70 years; and group 3, older than 70 years. The prevalence of hypertension, chronic renal impairment, and atrial fibrillation increased with increased age. On admission, the older the age of the HF patient, the less likely they were to receive β‐blockers and vasodilators. In‐hospital mortality rate was higher in older patients when compared with the younger groups (10.6% group 3 vs 7% group 1 and 7.2% group 2; P=.001). During the study period, the relative reduction in mortality rates was higher in the younger when compared with the older patients (55%, 49%, and 41%, respectively). The clinical characteristics of Middle‐Eastern HF patients vary considerably according to age. Over time, an overall marked improvement in hospital survival for HF was observed, which was associated with progressively increased treatment with evidence‐based therapies. This survival improvement over time appears to be less pronounced in the elderly.
The Impact of Corporate Social Performance on Financial Risk and Utility: A Longitudinal Analysis
Authors: Oikonomou Ioannis , Brooks Chris , Pavelin Stephen
Published: April 2012

This study focuses on the wealth‐protective effects of socially responsible firm behavior by examining the association between corporate social performance (CSP) and financial risk for an extensive panel data sample of S&P 500 companies between the years 1992 and 2009. In addition, the link between CSP and investor utility is investigated. The main findings are that corporate social responsibility is negatively but weakly related to systematic firm risk and that corporate social irresponsibility is positively and strongly related to financial risk. The fact that both conventional and downside risk measures lead to the same conclusions adds convergent validity to the analysis. However, the risk‐return trade‐off appears to be such that no clear utility gain or loss can be realized by investing in firms characterized by different levels of social and environmental performance. Overall volatility conditions of the financial markets are shown to play a moderating role in the nature and strength of the CSP‐risk relationship.
Successful treatment of duodenal carcinoid tumor by laparoscopy‐assisted endoscopic full‐thickness resection with lymphadenectomy
Authors: Abe N , Takeuchi H , Shibuya M , Ohki A , Yanagida O , Masaki T , Mori T , Sugiyama M
Published: April 2012

Reports on endoscopic full‐thickness resection of the duodenum using the endoscopic submucosal dissection technique are rare. Here we present a case of a duodenal bulb carcinoid tumor successfully treated by laparoscopy‐assisted endoscopic full‐thickness resection (LAEFR). An asymptomatic 65‐year‐old woman had a 10‐mm, submucosal tumor on the anterior wall of the duodenal bulb. Abdominal CT revealed an enlarged lymph node adjacent to the duodenum and pancreas. Although we informed the patient of the need for pancreatoduodenectomy with a lymphadenectomy, the patient expressly requested LAEFR. After negative nodal metastasis was confirmed by an intraoperative frozen section of the enlarged nodes, LAEFR was performed using the endoscopic submucosal dissection technique under the laparoscopic assistance. The duodenal wall defect was closed by laparoscopy with an Albert anastomosis. The entire circumferential margin of the specimen was histopathologically negative for carcinoid tumor cells. In summary, LAEFR enables en bloc and whole‐layer excision of nonperiampullary duodenal lesions with a sufficient surgical margin, both vertically and laterally. LAEFR is a minimally invasive and effective treatment for selected patients with duodenal carcinoid tumor.
Pneumothorax following endoscopic submucosal dissection of a rectal tumor
Authors: Lau WD , Tan KY
Published: April 2012

Endoscopic submucosal dissection is a useful alternative to endoscopic mucosal resection and surgery for en bloc resection of colorectal tumors. However, the technique is considered to be difficult, and potential complications include perforation and postoperative bleeding. In this case report, we present a case of a 63‐year‐old woman who developed pneumothorax after endoscopic submucosal dissection of a rectal tumor.
Fibro‐osseous tumour of the second metacarpal bone in a Thoroughbred filly
Authors: Madron M. S. , McClure S. R. , Yaeger M.
Published: April 2012

A 7‐month‐old Thoroughbred filly was evaluated because of an enlarging mass present on the proximomedial aspect of the left metacarpus. The mass was first noticed at age 2 months and had continued to increase in size. The mass was firm, nonpainful to palpation, covered with normal haired skin and had never been associated with lameness. Radiographs obtained at ages 2 and 7 months revealed an enlarging and partially mineralised mass associated with the second metacarpal bone. Based on the clinical and radiographic progression, as well as the location of the mass, a poor prognosis for future athletic soundness was given and the filly was subjected to euthanasia. The mass had histological features of both an ossifying fibroma and osteoma.
Influence of Coolant Density on Turbine Blade Platform Film-Cooling
Authors: Narzary Diganta P. , Liu Kuo-Chun , Han Je-Chin
Published: April 2012

Detailed parametric study of film-cooling effectiveness was carried out on a turbine blade platform of a five-blade linear cascade. The parameters chosen were freestream turbulence intensity, upstream stator-rotor purge flow rate, discrete-hole film-cooling blowing ratio, and coolant-to-mainstream density ratio. The measurement technique adopted was temperature sensitive paint (TSP) technique. Two turbulence intensities of 4.2% and 10.5%; three purge flows between the range of 0.25% and 0.75% of mainstream flow rate; three blowing ratios between 1.0 and 1.8; and three density ratios between 1.1 and 2.2 were investigated. Purge flow was supplied via a typical double-toothed stator-rotor seal, whereas the discrete-hole film-cooling was accomplished via two rows of cylindrical holes arranged along the length of the platform. The inlet and the exit Mach numbers were 0.27 and 0.44, respectively. Reynolds number of the mainstream flow was 7.5 * 105 based on the exit velocity and chord length of the blade. Results indicated that platform film-cooling effectiveness decreased with turbulence intensity, increased with purge flow rate and density ratio, and possessed an optimum blowing ratio value.
Uncertainties in RECIST as a measure of volume for lung nodules and liver tumors
Authors: Levine Zachary H. , Pintar Adam L. , Hagedorn John G. , Fenimore Charles P. , Heussel Claus P.
Published: April 2012

Purpose:

The authors wish to determine the extent to which the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) and the criteria of the World Health Organization (WHO) can predict tumor volumes and changes in volume using clinical data.

Methods:

The data presented are a reanalysis of data acquired in other studies, including the public database from the Lung Image Database Consortium (LIDC) and from a study of liver tumors.

Results:

The principal result is that a given RECIST diameter predicts volume to a factor of 16 or 10 for the two data sets, respectively, by examining 95% prediction bounds and that changes in volume are predicted only little better: to within a factor of 7 for the liver data. The WHO criteria reduce the prediction bounds by a factor of 1.3 in all cases. Also, the RECIST threshold of 10 mm to measure a nodule corresponds to a transition zone width of a factor of more than 2 in volume for the nodules in the LIDC database.

Conclusions:

While the RECIST diameter is certainly correlated with the volume, and similarly for changes in these quantities, the use of the diameter introduces additional variation assuming volume is the quantity of interest. Exactly how much this reduces the statistical power of clinical drug trials is a key open question for future research.
Structure of an Intermediate State in Protein Folding and Aggregation
Authors: Neudecker Philipp , Robustelli Paul , Cavalli Andrea , Walsh Patrick , Lundström Patrik , Zarrine-Afsar Arash , Sharpe Simon , Vendruscolo Michele , Kay Lewis E.
Published: April 2012

Protein Tipping Point

Amyloid fibrils are insoluble protein aggregates that play a role in various degenerative diseases. Recent experiments have provided insight into fibrillar structures; however, the mechanisms of aggregation remain unclear.

Neudecker
et al.

(p.
362
; see the Perspective by

Eliezer

) report the structure of a transient folding intermediate in a protein SH3 domain known to undergo aggregation. The intermediate is stabilized by non-native interactions and exposes an aggregation-prone β strand. Thus, for this protein, folding from the intermediate state will compete with aggregation.
Dynamic Causes of the Relation Between Area and Age of the Ocean Floor
Authors: Coltice N. , Rolf T. , Tackley P. J. , Labrosse S.
Published: April 2012

Old Plates and the Sea

Estimates for the area and age of the ocean floor are at odds with assumptions for mantle convection, which imply that an older sea floor—rather than a new one—would be preferentially subducted over time. Previous efforts to explain these relationships have been based on geologic evidence and simple models.

Coltice
et al.

(p.
335
) created numerical three-dimensional convection models representing more realistic physical boundaries, including a spherical Earth, the existence of continents and supercontinents over time, and realistic rheologies. A combination of continents and plate-like behavior of the ocean floor sufficed to produce the observed relationship between plate area and plate age, which explains why some old oceanic crust still remains.
A Yeast Prion, Mod5, Promotes Acquired Drug Resistance and Cell Survival Under Environmental Stress
Authors: Suzuki Genjiro , Shimazu Naoyuki , Tanaka Motomasa
Published: April 2012

Thoroughly MODern Yeast

It is not clear if prion induction in yeast is truly linked to physiological roles.

Suzuki
et al.

(p.
355
) show that the yeast prion protein Mod5 (a transfer RNA isopentenyltransferase) responds to an environmental stressor by converting to an aggregated amyloid form, which leads to phenotypic changes in cell metabolism and drug resistance. Introduction of Mod5 amyloid into yeast resulted in the formation of a dominantly heritable prion state [
MOD
+
], in which Mod5 is aggregated. [
MOD
+
] yeast showed high ergosterol levels and acquired resistance to several antifungal agents. Selective pressure by antifungal drugs on nonprion [
mod
−
] yeast induced the [
MOD
+
] prion state, formation of amyloid, and increased cell survival.
Extensive Mutagenesis of the Conserved Box E Motif in Duck Hepatitis B Virus P Protein Reveals Multiple Functions in Replication and a Common Structure with the Primer Grip in HIV-1 Reverse Transcriptase
Authors: Wang Yong-Xiang , Luo Cheng , Zhao Dan , Beck Jürgen , Nassal Michael
Published: April 2012

Hepadnaviruses, including the pathogenic hepatitis B virus (HBV), replicate their small DNA genomes through protein-primed reverse transcription, mediated by the terminal protein (TP) domain in their P proteins and an RNA stem-loop, ϵ, on the pregenomic RNA (pgRNA). No direct structural data are available for P proteins, but their reverse transcriptase (RT) domains contain motifs that are conserved in all RTs (box A to box G), implying a similar architecture; however, experimental support for this notion is limited. Exploiting assays available for duck HBV (DHBV) but not the HBV P protein, we assessed the functional consequences of numerous mutations in box E, which forms the DNA primer grip in human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) RT. This substructure coordinates primer 3′-end positioning and RT subdomain movements during the polymerization cycle and is a prime target for nonnucleosidic RT inhibitors (NNRTIs) of HIV-1 RT. Box E was indeed critical for DHBV replication, with the mutations affecting the folding, ϵ RNA interactions, and polymerase activity of the P protein in a position- and amino acid side chain-dependent fashion similar to that of HIV-1 RT. Structural similarity to HIV-1 RT was underlined by molecular modeling and was confirmed by the replication activity of chimeric P proteins carrying box E, or even box C to box E, from HIV-1 RT. Hence, box E in the DHBV P protein and likely the HBV P protein forms a primer grip-like structure that may provide a new target for anti-HBV NNRTIs.
Aptamer That Binds to the gD Protein of Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and Efficiently Inhibits Viral Entry
Authors: Gopinath Subash C. B. , Hayashi Kyoko , Kumar Penmetcha K. R.
Published: April 2012

The ectodomain of the gD protein of herpes simplex viruses (HSVs) plays an important role in viral entry by binding to specific cellular coreceptors and mediating viral entry to the host cells. In the present study, we isolated RNA aptamers (aptamer-1 and aptamer-5) that specifically bind to the gD protein of HSV-1 with high affinity and are able to discriminate the gD protein of a different virus, HSV-2. Aptamer-1 efficiently interfered with the interaction between the gD protein and the HSV-1 target cell receptor (HVEM) in a dose-dependent manner. The 50% effective concentration (EC
50
) of aptamer-1 was estimated to be in the nanomolar range (60 nM). Furthermore, aptamer-1 was analyzed for anti-HSV-1 activity by using plaque assays, and it efficiently inhibited viral entry with an estimated

K
i

of 0.8 μM. To expand the future applications of aptamer-1, a shorter variant was designed by using both mapping and boundary analyses, resulting in the mini-1 aptamer (44-mer). Compared to the full-length aptamer, mini-1 had at least as high an affinity, specificity, and ability to interfere with gD-HVEM interactions. These studies suggest that the mini-1 aptamer could be explored further as an anti-HSV-1 topical therapy designed to prevent the risk of acquiring HSV-1 infection through physical contact.
Capsid Structure and Its Stability at the Late Stages of Bacteriophage SPP1 Assembly
Authors: White Helen E. , Sherman Michael B. , Brasilès Sandrine , Jacquet Eric , Seavers Philippa , Tavares Paulo , Orlova Elena V.
Published: April 2012

The structure of the bacteriophage SPP1 capsid was determined at subnanometer resolution by cryo-electron microscopy and single-particle analysis. The icosahedral capsid is composed of the major capsid protein gp13 and the auxiliary protein gp12, which are organized in a
T
=7 lattice. DNA is arranged in layers with a distance of ∼24.5 Å. gp12 forms spikes that are anchored at the center of gp13 hexamers. In a gp12-deficient mutant, the centers of hexamers are closed by loops of gp13 coming together to protect the SPP1 genome from the outside environment. The HK97-like fold was used to build a pseudoatomic model of gp13. Its structural organization remains unchanged upon tail binding and following DNA release. gp13 exhibits enhanced thermostability in the DNA-filled capsid. A remarkable convergence between the thermostability of the capsid and those of the other virion components was found, revealing that the overall architecture of the SPP1 infectious particle coevolved toward high robustness.
Intervention for control of hypertension in Catalonia, Spain (INCOTECA Project): results of a multicentric, non-randomised, quasi-experimental controlled intervention study
Authors: Vallès-Fernández Roser , Rodriguez-Blanco Teresa , Mengual-Martínez Lucas , Rosell-Murphy Magdalena , Prieto-De Lamo Gemma , Martínez-Frutos Fina , Mimoso-Moreno Sonia , Bellerino-Serrano Eva , Àlvarez-Lázaro Alícia , Franzi-Sisó Alícia , Martínez-Vindel Juan Carlos , Alonso-Ortega Mª Socorro , Olmedo-Muñoz Imma , Bonet-Simó Josep Mª ,   the INCOTECA research group
Published: April 2012

Objective

The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of a quality improvement (QI) plan aimed at primary healthcare teams (PHCTs) to optimise hypertension control and to compare it with standard clinical care.

Methods

DesignMulticentric, non-randomised, quasi-experimental controlled intervention study.

Setting5 PHCTs in the intervention and 13 in the standard care group in the province of Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.

ParticipantsThis is a population-based study in which all patients over 18 years of age with a diagnosis of hypertension before 1 January 2006 were included (n=9877 in the intervention group and n=21 704 in the control group).

InterventionA QI plan that targeted primary care professionals. The plan included training sessions, implementation of recommended clinical practice guidelines for the management of hypertensive patients and audit and feedback to health professionals.

Main outcome measurePrevalence of hypertensive patients with an adequate blood pressure (BP) control.

Results

The adjusted difference between intervention and standard care groups in the odds of BP control was 1.3 (95% CI 1.1 to 1.6, p=0.003). Results of the mixed model on repeated measures showed that, on average, an individual in the intervention group had an increase of 92% in the odds of BP control (OR 1.9, 95% CI 1.7 to 2.1).

Conclusions

The implementation of a QI plan can improve BP control. This strategy is potentially feasible for up-scaling within the existing PHCTs.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov MS: 1998275938244441.
Advertising your business: entering the digital arena
Authors: Johnson Jeremy
Published: April 2012

As the internet becomes an integral part of life for businesses and consumers alike, veterinary practices need to consider how it can be used to their advantage. Setting up a practice website and using social networking sites and search engine optimisation tools to promote the practice can be either a very effective way of advertising your business and attracting new clients or a waste of time and money. Jeremy Johnson explains how to keep up with the competition while avoiding the potential pitfalls of advertising legislation.
Planning for redundancy: legal and practical considerations
Authors: Lea Nigel
Published: April 2012

In the March issue of In Practice, Peter Gripper recommended undertaking a thorough organisational and strategic review of a business to identify alternatives to making redundancies. Here, assuming that the business has already done this and is left with no other option, Nigel Lea explains legal and practical aspects of implementing redundancy.