bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in diarrhea, nutrients apparent digestibility, digestive enzyme activities of weaned piglets in response to chitosan‐zinc chelate
Authors: Qian Lichun , Yue Xiaojing , Hu Luansha , Ma Yuanfei , Han Xinyan
Published: August 2015

A total of 120 weanling barrows weighing 6.11 ± 0.20 kg were randomly allotted to four treatments with three replications (i.e. pen) of ten piglets per replicate. Pigs were received corn‐soybean basal diet (control) or the same basal diet supplemented with the following sources of zinc: (i) 100 mg/kg of Zn as ZnSO4; (ii) 100 mg/kg of Zn as chitosan‐Zn chelate (CS‐Zn); and (iii) 100 mg/kg of Zn as ZnSO4 mixed with chitosan (CS + ZnSO4). The results showed that CS‐Zn could highly improve average daily gain and average daily feed intake than those of ZnSO4 or CS+ ZnSO4 (P < 0.05). The pigs fed dietary CS‐Zn had lower diarrhea incidence and higher apparent digestibility of crude protein than those of the pigs fed dietary ZnSO4 (P < 0.05). The protease activities in duodenal content of the pigs receiving CS‐Zn diets was higher than that of the pigs fed dietary ZnSO4 or CS + ZnSO4 (P < 0.05). The amylase activity in duodenal content of the pigs fed dietary CS‐Zn was higher than that of the pigs receiving ZnSO4 diets or basal diets (P < 0.05). These results indicated that dietary CS‐Zn showed different bioactivities from ZnSO4 or CS + ZnSO4 in reducing the incidence of diarrhea, improving activities of digestive enzymes and growth performance of weaned pigs.
Development of a simple IgE‐independent anaphylactic model using buckwheat antigen and B‐type CpG oligodeoxynucleotide from Streptococcus thermophilus
Authors: Yamamoto Yoshinari , Shigemori Suguru , Nigar Shireen , Oshiro Kazushi , Wang Yeqin , Sato Takashi , Shimosato Takeshi
Published: August 2015

We developed a severe anaphylactic model in mice using buckwheat antigen and B‐type CpG‐oligodeoxynucleotides (CpG‐ODNs) from Streptococcus thermophilus genome. In typical systemic anaphylaxis models, animals are challenged with large quantity of antigens via an intravenous (i.v.) route. Here, we showed a simple anaphylactic shock after challenge via intraperitoneal (i.p.) route. The i.p. method is simpler than i.v. administration and has a lower risk for failure. To generate this anaphylactic model, 5‐week‐old female BALB/c mice were first i.p. sensitized with buckwheat antigen mixed with B‐type CpG‐ODN. After 2 weeks, mice were challenged with antigen to induce anaphylactic shock, which was evaluated by scoring the severity symptoms and measuring serum levels of various proteins and splenic cell producing cytokines. Immunoglobulin (Ig)G2a production and interferon‐γ positive cells were markedly increased in mice immunized with antigen mixed with B‐type CpG‐ODN, whereas serum IgE levels were decreased by B‐type CpG‐ODN. We also examined the effects of various ODNs (A, B and C‐type CpG‐ODNs) and antigens (buckwheat, α‐casein, β‐lactoglobulin and ovalbumin) on anaphylactic severity, and found that the combination of buckwheat and B‐type CpG‐ODN induced the most intense anaphylactic shock. This model is expected to contribute to the study of the prevention of anaphylactic shock.
Clinically important drug–drug interactions in poly‐treated elderly outpatients: a campaign to improve appropriateness in general practice
Authors: Raschi Emanuel , Piccinni Carlo , Signoretta Vincenzo , Lionello Lucio , Bonezzi Silvia , Delfino Marcello , Di Candia Lucia , Di Castri Lucio , Pieraccini Fabio , Carati Daniela , Poluzzi Elisabetta , De Ponti Fabrizio ,   on behalf of the Emilia‐Romagna elderly poly‐treated patients research group
Published: August 2015

Aims

The aim was to assess the impact of a campaign for general practitioners (GPs) to reduce clinically‐important drug–drug interactions (DDIs) in poly‐treated elderly patients.

Methods

We compiled a list of 53 DDIs and analyzed reimbursed prescriptions dispensed to poly‐treated (≥four drugs) elderly (>65 years) patients in the Emilia Romagna region during January 2011–June 2011 (first pre‐intervention period), January 2012–June 2012 (second pre‐intervention period) and January 2013–June 2013 (post‐intervention period). Educational initiatives to GPs were completed in July 2012–December 2012. Pre‐test/post‐test analysis (2013 vs. 2012) was performed, also using predicted 2013 data (P < 0.01 for statistical significance).

Results

Despite the slight increase in poly‐therapy rate (16% in 2013, +1.5% from 2011), we found a stable or slightly declining number of potential DDIs for each elderly poly‐treated patient (~1.5). In 2013, 11 DDIs exceeded 5% of prevalence rate: antidiabetics‐β‐adrenoceptor blockers ranked first (20.3%), followed by ACE Inhibitors (ACEIs)/sartans‐non steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (16.4%), diuretics‐NSAIDs (13.6%), selective serotonin re‐uptake inhibitors (SSRIs)‐NSAIDs/acetyl salicylic acid (ASA) (12.7%) and corticosteroids‐NSAIDs/ASA (9.7%). A remarkable reduction emerged for NSAID‐related DDIs (diuretics‐NSAIDs peaked −14.5%; P < 0.01), whereas prevalence of antidiabetics‐β‐adrenoceptor blockers increased (+7.9%; P < 0.01). When using predicted values, the statistical significance disappeared for antidiabetics‐β‐adrenoceptor blockers (+1.3%; P = 0.04), whereas it persisted for almost all NSAIDs‐related DDIs: ACEIs/sartans‐NSAIDs (−3.0%), diuretics‐NSAIDs (−6.0%), SSRIs‐NSAIDs/ASA (−5.9%).

Conclusions

This campaign contained the burden of DDIs in poly‐treated elderly patients by 1) reducing most prevalent DDIs, especially NSAIDs‐related DDIs and 2) balancing the observed rise in poly‐therapy rate with stable rate in overall prescriptions of potentially interacting drugs per patient.
How different is neo‐Aristotelian virtue from positive organizational virtuousness?
Authors: Sison Alejo José G. , Ferrero Ignacio
Published: August 2015

The purpose of this article is to explain the differences between neo‐Aristotelian virtue and positive organizational virtuousness from the virtue ethics perspective. Most studies use virtues and virtuousness interchangeably. A few others try to explain their differences from the positive organizational science perspective. Although closely related, we believe that these two notions are not identical. If we understand neo‐Aristotelian virtue correctly, then it cannot be judged exclusively on what is externally verifiable, as is the case with virtuousness. For these reasons, we attempt our own differentiation, highlighting the gains and losses realized in the migration from neo‐Aristotelian virtue to positive organizational virtuousness, and establishing guideposts to meaningfully combine the strengths of both concepts.
Approaching virtuousness through organizational ethical quality: toward a moral corporate social responsibility
Authors: O'Mara‐Shimek Michael , Guillén Manuel , Bañón Gomis Alexis J.
Published: August 2015

Today, in both theory and practice, the concepts of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and ethics are not necessarily related. Organizations can demonstrate high levels of social proactivity in theirCSRpolicies with or without having laudable levels of ethical quality or virtuousness. This article introduces the concepts of organizational ethical quality (OEQ) to evaluate the moral excellence ofCSRactions and policies, identifying and categorizing varying levels ranging from the absence of ethical virtuousness, termed immoralCSR(ICSR), to high levels of moralCSR(MCSR), or ethical virtuousness. HighMCSRis the product of both high levels ofOEQin conjunction with more proactiveCSRpolicies based on social action.
Robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy in cystic tumours: analysis of the Vattikuti Global Quality Initiative in Robotic Urologic Surgery (GQI‐RUS) database
Authors: Novara Giacomo , La Falce Sabrina , Abaza Ronney , Adshead James , Ahlawat Rajesh , Buffi Nicolò Maria , Challacombe Ben , Dasgupta Prokar , Moon Daniel A. , Parekh Dipen J. , Porpiglia Francesco , Rawal Sudhir , Rogers Craig , Volpe Alessandro , Bhandari Mahendra , Mottrie Alexander
Published: August 2015

Objective

To evaluate the outcomes of robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) in cystic tumours, analysing a large, multi‐institutional, retrospective series of RAPN, as limited data are available about the outcome of RAPN in cystic tumours.

Patients and Methods

We evaluated 465 patients who received RAPN for either cystic or solid tumours from 2010 to 2013 and included in the multi‐institutional, retrospective Vattikuti Global Quality Initiative in Robotic Urologic Surgery (GQI‐RUS) database. Univariable and multivariable linear and logistic regression models addressed the association of cystic tumours with perioperative outcomes.

Results

In all, 54 (12%) tumours were cystic. Cystic tumours were associated with significantly lower operative time (t −3.9; P < 0.001), once adjusted for the effect of covariates, whereas blood loss and warm ischaemia time were similar. Postoperative any grade complications were recorded in 66 solid (16%) and nine cystic (17%) tumours (P = 0.08). In multivariable analysis, cystic tumours were not associated with a significantly lower risk of any grade postoperative complications [odds ratio (OR) 0.9; P = 0.8]. Similarly, presence of tumours with cystic features was not associated with a significantly different risk of high‐grade postoperative complications (OR 2.2; P = 0.1). Prevalence of cancer histology and positive surgical margin rates were similar in cystic and solid tumours. Cystic tumours were not associated with significantly different postoperative estimated glomerular filtration rate (t 0.4; P = 0.7), once adjusted for the effect of covariates.

Conclusions

RAPN can be performed in cystic renal tumours with perioperative, pathological, and functional outcomes similar to those achievable in solid tumours.
Suicide and accidental deaths among patients with non‐metastatic prostate cancer
Authors: Dalela Deepansh , Krishna Nandita , Okwara James , Preston Mark A. , Abdollah Firas , Choueiri Toni K. , Reznor Gally , Sammon Jesse D. , Schmid Marianne , Kibel Adam S. , Nguyen Paul L. , Menon Mani , Trinh Quoc‐Dien
Published: August 2015

Objective

To determine if American men with prostate cancer are at increased risk of suicide/accidental death compared with other cancers and if the receipt of definitive treatment alters this association, as patients with cancer are at increased risk of suicide and evidence suggests a relationship between suicides and deaths due to accidents and externally caused injuries.

Patients and Methods

Demographic, socio‐economic and tumour characteristics of men with prostate cancer and men with other solid malignancies were extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database (1988–2010). Poisson regression models were fitted to compare the incidence of suicidal and accidental deaths in prostate cancer vs other solid cancers. Multivariate Cox regression was used to determine if receipt of definitive primary treatment impacted the risk of suicide or accidental death in men with localised/regional prostate cancer.

Results

Risk of suicidal and accidental death was significantly lower in men with prostate cancer (1 165 [0.2%] and 3 199 [0.6%]) than men with other cancers (2 232 [0.2%] and 4 501 [0.5%], respectively), except within the first year of diagnosis (adjusted relative risk [ARR] 3.98, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.02–5.23 and ARR 4.22, 95% CI 3.24–5.51, respectively, 0–3 months after diagnosis). Men with non‐metastatic prostate cancer who were White, uninsured, or recommended but did not receive treatment (hazard ratio vs treated 1.44, 95% CI 1.20–1.72, and 1.44, 95% CI 1.30–1.59, both P < 0.001) were at increased risk of suicidal and accidental mortality, respectively. Absence of data about previous co‐morbidities and drug addictions in the SEER dataset was an important limitation.

Conclusions

Relative to other cancers, men with prostate cancer were at increased risk of suicide and accidental deaths within the first year of diagnosis and when definitive treatment was recommended but not received, suggesting the need for close monitoring and coordination with mental health professionals in at‐risk men with potentially curable disease.
Comparison of the efficacy and safety of tolterodine 2 mg and 4 mg combined with an α‐blocker in men with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and overactive bladder: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kim Tae Heon , Jung Wonho , Suh Yoon Seok , Yook Soonhyun , Sung Hyun Hwan , Lee Kyu‐Sung
Published: August 2015

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of low‐dose (2 mg) tolterodine extended release (ER) with an α‐blocker compared with standard‐dose (4 mg) tolterodine ER with an α‐blocker for the treatment of men with residual storage symptoms after α‐blocker monotherapy.

Patients and Methods

The study was a 12‐week, single‐blind, randomized, parallel‐group, non‐inferiority trial that included men with residual storage symptoms despite receiving at least 4 weeks of α‐blocker treatment. Inclusion criteria were total International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) ≥12, IPSS quality‐of‐life item score ≥3, and ≥8 micturitions and ≥2 urgency episodes per 24 h. The primary outcome was change in the total IPSS score from baseline. Bladder diary variables, patient‐reported outcomes and safety were also assessed.

Results

Patients were randomly assigned to addition of either 2 mg tolterodine ER (n = 47) or 4 mg tolterodine ER (n = 48) to α‐blocker therapy for 12 weeks. Patients in both treatment groups had a significant improvement in total IPSS score (−5.5 and −6.3, respectively), micturition per 24 h (−1.3 and −1.7, respectively) and nocturia per night (−0.4 and −0.4, respectively). Changes in IPSS, bladder diary variables, and patient‐reported outcomes were not significantly different between the treatment groups. All interventions were well tolerated by patients.

Conclusions

These results suggest that 12 weeks of low‐dose tolterodine ER add‐on therapy is similar to standard‐dose tolterodine ER add‐on therapy in terms of efficacy and safety for patients experiencing residual storage symptoms after receiving α‐blocker monotherapy.
Risk factors for recurrence after surgery in non‐metastatic RCC with thrombus: a contemporary multicentre analysis
Authors: Abel E. Jason , Margulis Vitaly , Bauman Tyler M. , Karam Jose A. , Christensen William P. , Krabbe Laura‐Maria , Haddad Ahmed , Golla Vishnukamal , Wood Christopher G.
Published: August 2015

Objective

To determine the predictors of post‐surgical recurrence for patients with non‐metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and venous thrombus.

Methods

Records from consecutive patients with non‐metastatic RCC with tumour thrombus, treated surgically between 2000 and 2012 at one of three centres, were reviewed. Univariable and multivariable analysis were used to evaluate the association of risk factors for post‐surgical recurrence.

Results

A total of 465 patients with non‐metastatic RCC were identified, including patients with thrombus present in the renal vein (257 patients, 55.3%), infrahepatic inferior vena cava (IVC; 144 patients, 31.0%) and suprahepatic IVC (64 patients, 13.8%). The median (interquartile range) follow‐up was 28.3 (12.2–56.4) months, with metastatic RCC developing in 188 patients (40.5%). Independent predictors of recurrence included: body mass index ≤20 kg/m2 (hazard ratio [HR] 2.66; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.29–5.49), low preoperative haemoglobin (HR 1.54; 95% CI 1.07–2.20), perinephric fat invasion (HR 1.51; 95% CI 1.09–2.10), IVC thrombus height (HR 2.64; 95% CI 1.47–4.74), tumour diameter (HR 1.04 95% CI 1.00–1.09), nuclear grade (HR 1.56 95% CI 1.12–2.15) and non‐clear‐cell histology (HR 2.13; 95% CI 1.30–3.50). Independently predictive variables were used to create a recurrence model for three risk groups based on 0, 1–2, or >2 risk factors, respectively. The 5‐year recurrence‐free survival rate was significantly different in patients with favourable‐risk (79.1%) compared with intermediate‐ (55.1%) or high‐risk (22.1%) disease (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Seven risk factors for recurrence were identified for patients with non‐metastatic RCC with thrombus, which can be used to select patients who may benefit from increased surveillance or adjuvant therapy clinical trials.
Phenotypic characterisation of RAB6A knockout mouse embryonic fibroblasts
Authors: Bardin Sabine , Miserey‐Lenkei Stéphanie , Hurbain Ilse , Garcia‐Castillo Daniela , Raposo Graça , Goud Bruno
Published: August 2015

Background Information

Rab6 is one of the most conserved Rab GTPaes throughout evolution and the most abundant Rab protein associated with the Golgi complex. The two ubiquitous Rab isoforms, Rab6A and Rab6A′, that are generated by alternative splicing of the RAB6A gene, regulate several transport steps at the Golgi level, including retrograde transport between endosomes and Golgi, anterograde transport between Golgi and the plasma membrane, and intra‐Golgi and Golgi to endoplasmic reticulum transport.

Results

We have generated mice with a conditional null allele of RAB6A. Mice homozygous for the RAB6A null allele died at an early stage of embryonic development. Mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) were isolated from RAB6AloxP/loxPRosa26‐CreERT2 and incubated with 4‐hydroxy tamoxifen, resulting in the efficient depletion of Rab6A and Rab6A′. We show that Rab6 depletion affects cell growth, alters Golgi morphology and decreases the Golgi‐associated levels of some known Rab6 effectors such as Bicaudal‐D and myosin II. We also show that Rab6 depletion protects MEFs against ricin toxin and delays VSV‐G secretion.

Conclusions

Our study shows that RAB6 is an essential gene required for normal embryonic development. We confirm in MEF cells most of the functions previously attributed to the two ubiquitous Rab6 isoforms.
‘Through my eyes’: health‐promoting factors described by photographs taken by children with experience of cancer treatment
Authors: Einberg E.‐L. , Nygren J. M. , Svedberg P. , Enskär K.
Published: August 2015

Background

Health promotion for children with cancer should be based on the children's own needs and desires. Because there is a lack of knowledge in this area, the aim of this study was to explore what promotes health from the perspective of children with experience of cancer treatment.

Methods

Fifteen children between 8 and 12 years of age participated in focus groups with three children in each group. The children were given a camera and instructions to photograph subjects that promote their health. Focus group discussions were based on the photographs and the children's own description of those photographs. The analysis of focus group discussions and photographs was conducted using inductive content analysis.

Results

According to the children, health‐promoting factors are defined asmeaningful relationships,recreational activitiesand atrustful environment. Meaningful relationships includetogetherness within the family,affection for petsandfriendship with peers. Recreational activities includeengagement in play and leisure,withdrawal for relaxationandfeeling enjoyment. Trustful environment includesconfidence in significant othersandfeeling safe.

Conclusions

Knowledge from this study can contribute to health promotion interventions and quality improvements in the health care of children with experience of cancer treatment. Children's experiences with what promotes health in their everyday lives provide a better understanding of the type of support children prefer when promoting their own health.
Legal Systems, Capital Structure, and Debt Maturity in Developing Countries
Authors: Turk Ariss Rima
Published: August 2015

Manuscript type

Empirical

Research Question/Issue

This paper analyzes the importance of two aspects of the legal system in shaping firm leverage and debt maturity structure across developing countries.

Research Findings/Insights

Using a larger number of developing countries compared to prior research, four main findings are obtained. First, whereas corruption increases firm debt financing, its effect is moderated when considering the impact of stronger laws. Second, the common versus civil law distinction does matter for firm financing in developing countries, but in the opposite direction documented for developed countries. Third, less corruption combined with stronger laws increases reliance on long‐term debt. Finally, by listing on a developed exchange abroad, firms in developing countries are able to raise equity and extend the maturity of their debt.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

The findings on the relative importance of the legal system for firm financing decisions in developing countries do not necessarily agree with prior findings for developed countries. Future research focusing exclusively on developing countries may be warranted to better understand the drivers of private sector‐led growth in these economies.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

This study reinforces the importance of strengthening public governance and laws as well as deepening capital markets in developing countries to improve financing conditions.
Carbohydrate mouth rinse enhances time to exhaustion during treadmill exercise
Authors: Fraga Cindy , Velasques Bruna , Koch Alexander J. , Machado Marco , Paulucio Dailson , Ribeiro Pedro , Pompeu Fernando Augusto Monteiro Saboia
Published: August 2015

Mouth rinsing with a CHO solution has been suggested to improve short (<1 h) endurance performance through central effect. We examined the effects of mouth rinsing with a CHO solution on running time to exhaustion on a treadmill. Six well‐trained subjects ran to exhaustion at 85% VO2max, on three separate occasions. Subjects received either an 8% CHO solution or a placebo (PLA) every 15 min to mouth rinse (MR) or a 6% CHO solution to ingest (ING). Treatments were assigned in a randomized, counterbalanced fashion, with the mouth‐rinsing treatments double‐blinded. Blood samples were taken to assess glucose (Glu) and lactate (Lac), as well as the perceived exertion (RPE). Gas exchange and heart rate (HR) were collected during all trials. Subjects ran longer (P = 0·038) in both the MR (2583 ± 686 s) and ING (2625 ± 804 s) trials, compared to PLA (1935 ± 809 s), covering a greater distance (MR 9685 ± 3511·62 m; ING 9855 ± 4118·62; PLA 7295 ± 3727 m). RER was significantly higher in both ING and MR versus PLA. No difference among trials was observed for other metabolic or cardiovascular variables (VO2, Lac, Glu, HR), nor for RPE. Endurance capacity, based on time to exhaustion on a treadmill, was improved when either mouth rinsing or ingesting a CHO solution, compared to PLA.
Beta blockade increases pulmonary and systemic transit time heterogeneity: evaluation based on indocyanine green kinetics in healthy volunteers
Authors: Weiss Michael , Krejcie Tom C. , Avram Michael J.
Published: August 2015

Knowledge of factors influencing the heterogeneity of blood transit times is important in cardiovascular physiology. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of beta‐adrenergic blockade on blood transit time dispersion in awake, anxious volunteers. Recirculatory modelling of the disposition of intravascular markers using parametric forms for transit time distributions, such as the inverse Gaussian distribution, provides the opportunity to estimate the systemic and pulmonary transit time dispersion in vivo. The latter is determined by the flow heterogeneity in the microcirculatory network. Using this approach, we have analysed indocyanine green (ICG) disposition data obtained in four subjects by frequent early arterial blood sampling before and after beta‐adrenergic blockade by propranolol. Propranolol decreased cardiac output from 9·3 ± 2·8 l min−1 to 3·5 ± 0·47 l min−1 (P<0·05). This reduction was accompanied by a 4·5 ± 0·6‐fold and 2·1 ± 0·3‐fold increase (P<0·001) in the relative dispersion (dimensionless variance) of blood transit times through the systemic and pulmonary circulation, respectively.
Gun Violence and the Meaning of American Schools
Authors: Warnick Bryan R. , Kim Sang Hyun , Robinson Shannon
Published: August 2015

In the United States, targeted school shootings have become a distinct genre of violence. In this essay, Bryan Warnick, Sang Hyun Kim, and Shannon Robinson examine the social meanings that exist in American society that might contribute to this phenomenon, focusing on the question: “Why are schools conceptualized as appropriate places to enact this form of gun violence?” The authors analyze the social meaning of American schooling by using empirical data, everyday observations, films, and poetry, and then connect these points of meaning to stories of individual school shooters. Through this analysis, three aspects of school stand out. First, schools are places of both real and symbolic violence, where force and power often rule the day. Second, schools are places connected to expectations of hope and refuge, friendship and romance, and when these expectations are not met, bitter resentment flows against schools. Third, suburban schools are seen as places of expressive individualism, which, in rare cases, is manifest in terms of “expressive violence.” Together, these points of meaning can make schools, for some youth, seem like appropriate places to express violent intentions. The essay concludes by speculating about how this analysis can be applied to prevent school shootings.
Normative Considerations in the Aftermath of Gun Violence in Schools
Authors: Gereluk Dianne T. , Kent Donlevy, J. , Thompson Merlin B.
Published: August 2015

Gun violence in American and Canadian schools is an ongoing tragedy that goes substantially beyond its roots in the interlocking emotional and behavioral issues of mental health and bullying. In light of the need for effective policy development, Dianne T. Gereluk, J. Kent Donlevy, and Merlin B. Thompson examine gun violence in schools from several relevant perspectives in this article. The authors consider the principle of standard of care as it relates to parents, teachers, and community members in a particular school's context. They posit that normative principles may provide a procedural mechanism appropriate for policymakers and practitioners when contemplating and implementing heightened security measures. Finally, they propose Rawlsian reasonableness as an effective and deliberative democratic process that reduces emotional, reactive responses to school shootings. Through these overlapping concepts, the authors advocate for purposeful discussions regarding gun violence in schools based on the unique pragmatic, educational, social, political, and contextual circumstances of individual schools and their surrounding communities.
The application of an ecosystem services framework to estimate the economic value of dung beetles to theU.K.cattle industry
Authors: BEYNON SARAH A. , WAINWRIGHT WARWICK A. , CHRISTIE MICHAEL
Published: August 2015

1. TheDEFRAecosystem services framework was implemented in an entomological context to provide preliminary estimates of the economic value of four key ecosystem service benefits delivered by dung beetles (Coleoptera:Scarabaeidae,Geotrupidae) to theU.K.cattle industry and individual cattle farmers. These benefits included (i) reduced pest flies; (ii) reduced gastrointestinal parasites; (iii) reduced pasture fouling and (iv) increased soil nutrients.

2. A mesocosm experiment was carried out to quantify the impacts of anthelmintic treatment on dung removal by dung beetles when (i) cattle were excreting anthelmintics (which affect dung beetles) in a sufficient concentration to impact dung beetles and (ii) when cattle were not excreting dung containing anthelmintics (which affect dung beetles) in a sufficient concentration to impact dung beetles.

3. Inferring from our mesocosm experiment and existing data, the value of the benefits of dung beetles under current farming practices (and current anthelmintic usage) was estimated. We estimated the potential economic benefits if dung beetles were protected (i) under all entry‐level agri‐environment schemes; (ii) under organic schemes; or (iii) if farmers stopped treating adult cattle with anthelmintics during the grazing season.

4. While these estimates are preliminary, and should not be treated as definitive values, we suggest that dung beetles may be currently saving theU.K.cattle industryc.£367 million each year:c. £354 million in conventional systems andc.£13 million in organic systems. Annual benefits per cow are greater in organic systems (£43.47) compared with conventional systems (£37.42).

5. Protecting dung beetles under agri‐environment schemes could save theU.K.cattle industry an additional £40.2 million year−1(£4.36 per cow), while protecting dung beetles under organic schemes could save £378 k year−1(£1.26 per cow). The cessation of, largely unnecessary, treatment of adult cattle with anthelmintics could save theU.K.cattle industry an additional £6.2 million year−1(£1.40 per cow) in addition to savings on the anthelmintics themselves.

6. These estimates are based on a large number of underlying assumptions and, thus, may be overestimating or underestimating the economic value of ecosystem services delivered by dung beetles.

7. The potential for using theDEFRAecosystem services framework in an entomological context is highlighted. These estimates emphasise the contribution of dung beetles as keyEcosystemServiceProviders (ESP's) within theU.K.cattle sector and, by extension, emphasise the importance of valuing supporting ecosystem services derived from invertebrates.
Worried About us: Evaluating an Intervention for Relationship‐Based Anxiety
Authors: Paprocki Christine M. , Baucom Donald H.
Published: August 2015

Although romantic relationships are commonly a source of pleasure and comfort, for some individuals they can be a source of persistent anxiety. The aim of the current investigation was to explore the construct of relationship‐based anxiety and to evaluate the effectiveness of a brief couple‐based psychoeducational session for this issue. Common behavioral patterns and cognitive tendencies seen among individuals with relationship‐based anxiety were examined, including excessive reassurance‐seeking, self‐silencing, and partner accommodation. In the current investigation, a single psychoeducational session was developed to address these maladaptive interactive patterns of behavior specifically. The session was administered to a sample of 21 couples and was found to decrease levels of reassurance‐seeking and self‐silencing significantly among individuals with relationship anxiety, and to decrease levels of maladaptive accommodation behaviors significantly in their partners.
Modification of insoluble dietary fibres in soya bean okara and their physicochemical properties
Authors: Huang Suya , He Yawen , Zou Yanping , Liu Zhuang
Published: August 2015

The changes in physicochemical and physiological properties of modified soluble dietary fibre (mSDF) in the okara using enzymatic [cellulase/substrates ratio of 2.0–6.0% (w/w) at 50 °C for 90–150 min], chemical [water bath of 1–3 h, water bath temperature of 50–90 °C, Na2HPO4 concentration of 0.1–0.9% and sample/reagent radio (S/R) of 1:40–1:60 (w/v)] and physical (homogenised once or twice under the optimal cellulase treatment condition) treatments were evaluated. The mSDF yield with chemical treatment (57.16%) was significantly (P < 0.05) higher than that of physical treatment [homogenisation once (16.54%) or twice (42.02%)] in combination with cellulase treatment. All treatments improved swelling capacity of mSDF and promoted bile acid‐ and cholesterol‐absorption capacity, but enzymatic and chemical treatments decreased the total reducing power of mSDF, except homogenisation‐cellulase treatment (141.74 μm TE g−1). Therefore, homogenisation‐cellulase treatment may be the appropriate method to improve the SDF proportion and ameliorate the functionality of okara.
Effect of carvacrol and thymol on Salmonella spp. biofilms on polypropylene
Authors: Amaral Viviane C. S. , Santos Patrícia R. , da Silva Alex Fiori , dos Santos Adriele Rodrigues , Machinski Miguel , Mikcha Jane M. Graton
Published: August 2015

The present study evaluated the effects of carvacrol and thymol against Salmonella spp. biofilm on polypropylene. The efficacy of the compounds was assessed by quantifying Salmonella spp. cells during and after biofilm formation on polypropylene and performing scanning electron microscopy. During biofilm formation, carvacrol and thymol, at subinhibitory concentrations, reduced bacterial counts about 1–2 log, while established Salmonella spp. biofilms were reduced about 1–5 log by carvacrol and thymol, at MIC or 2× MIC. The greatest reduction in carvacrol‐treated biofilms, about 5 log, was observed with 156 and 312 μg mL−1 (MIC and 2× MIC) in established Salmonella Typhimurium ATCC 14028 biofilms. Thymol showed the greatest reduction, about 4 log, at 624 μg mL−1 (2× MIC) against mature Salmonella Enteritidis biofilm. Carvacrol and thymol reduced the number of Salmonella spp. cells on polypropylene, suggesting their potential for the control of Salmonella spp. biofilms.
Search and Recombination Process to Innovate: A Review of the Empirical Evidence and a Research Agenda
Authors: Savino Tommaso , Messeni Petruzzelli Antonio , Albino Vito
Published: August 2015

The view of innovation as a process of searching and recombining existing knowledge elements has been adopted in several industries. The innovation management literature has recognized the fundamental role that search and recombination play in innovation development. However, the relevant research has provided complex, fragmented and mixed results. The authors aim to identify areas of convergence and provide directions for future research by collecting empirical evidence regarding how firms conduct the search and recombination process. They conducted a systematic literature review of 87 empirical articles in the innovation management field. The review reveals differences among the solutions adopted both within and across organizational boundaries. Specifically, it shows that the variety and diversity of knowledge elements are critical in creating breakthrough innovations. Therefore, this paper discusses how to provide access to a variety of knowledge elements. It also highlights other fundamental questions calling for further investigation, such as how scientific knowledge elements are successfully recombined and how recombination and search dynamics occur in small and medium‐sized firms. The review concludes by summarizing the current state of affairs and suggests promising directions for future investigation.
Pre‐school obesity is inversely associated with vegetable intake, grocery stores and outdoor play
Authors: Kepper M. , Tseng T.‐S. , Volaufova J. , Scribner R. , Nuss H. , Sothern M.
Published: August 2015

The study determined the association between body mass index (BMI) z score and fruit and vegetable intake, frequency and ratio of fast food outlets and grocery stores in concentric areas around the child's residence, outdoor play and total crime index. Data from 78 Louisiana pre‐school children were analyzed using Pearson's correlation and multiple regression analysis. Parental‐reported fruit intake was linearly associated with increased number of grocery store counts in concentric areas around the child's residence (P = 0.0406, P = 0.0281). Vegetable intake was inversely (P = 0.04) and the ratio of fast food outlets to grocery stores in a 2‐mile concentric area around the child's residence was positively (P = 0.05) associated to BMI z score after applying Best Model regression analysis (F = 3.06, P = 0.0346). Children residing in neighbourhoods with greater access to fast foods and lower access to fruits and vegetables may be at higher risk for developing obesity during pre‐school years.
Association of plasma fatty acid composition with plasma irisin levels in normal weight and overweight/obese children
Authors: Viitasalo A. , Ågren J. , Venäläinen T. , Pihlajamäki J. , Jääskeläinen J. , Korkmaz A. , Atalay M. , Lakka T. A.
Published: August 2015

Background

Irisin has been suggested to protect against overweight. There are no previous data on the association of plasma fatty acid (FA) composition with plasma irisin.

Objectives

We studied the association of FA composition with plasma irisin in normal weight and overweight/obese children.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included pre‐pubertal children (388 normal weight children and 55 overweight/obese children); 6–9 years of age, taking part in the Physical Activity and Nutrition in Children Study. After an overnight fast, we measured plasma FA composition by gas chromatography and plasma irisin levels by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

Higher proportion of total monounsaturated fatty acids in plasma cholesteryl esters (CEs) (β = 0.139, P = 0.003) and phospholipids (PLs) (β = 0.147, P = 0.002) and lower proportion of total polyunsaturated fatty acids in plasma CE (β = −0.130, P = 0.006) and PL (β = −0.165, P < 0.001) were associated with higher plasma irisin level in the whole study group. The association of plasma FA composition with plasma irisin level was stronger among overweight/obese children compared to normal weight children. Higher proportion of γ‐linolenic acid (β = 0.324, P = 0.017) and lower proportion of linoleic acid (β = −0.397, P = 0.005) in plasma CE were related to higher plasma irisin level among overweight/obese children, indicating the direct association of estimated D6D activity in plasma CE (β = 0.343, P = 0.011) with plasma irisin. Furthermore, higher proportion of oleic acid in plasma CE (β = 0.345, P = 0.012) and PL (β = 0.292, P = 0.033) and higher proportion of adrenic acid (β = 0.366, P = 0.008) and docosapentaenoic acid (β = 0.351, P = 0.010) in plasma PL were associated with higher plasma irisin level among overweight/obese children.

Conclusion

Metabolically unfavourable plasma FA profile was associated with higher plasma irisin level especially in overweight/obese children, suggesting that excess body fat might modulate these relationships.
Examining the association between early life social adversity and BMI changes in childhood: a life course trajectory analysis
Authors: Morris T. T. , Northstone K. , Howe L. D.
Published: August 2015

Background

A number of studies have found associations between multiple aspects of social adversity and obesity in childhood, yet this research has largely been limited to cross‐sectional data.

Objectives

This study aimed to address this limitation by using life course trajectory methods to determine whether multiple aspects of social adversity in early childhood are associated with changes in body mass index (BMI) throughout childhood.

Methods

Associations between multiple measures of social adversity from birth to 4 years and subsequent BMI trajectories to age 17 were examined in 7021 children in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children.

Results

Higher BMI throughout ages 12–17 were observed for children whose parents had separated, were exposed to frequent residential mobility or who experienced moderate or great household financial difficulty in early childhood. After adjustment for confounding variables, associations were attenuated but remained for both moderate (two moves) and high (≥3 moves) residential mobility (mean % difference in BMI at age 17 for children experiencing moderate and high residential mobility before age 4 compared with those experiencing no moves: 2.3; 95% CI: 0.5–4.2; P = 0.015 and 4.2; 95% CI: 1.4–7.0; P = 0.004, respectively).

Conclusions

Associations between BMI and social adversity in childhood are present but largely explained by background socioeconomic position. However, there remain small but important differences between the BMI of children who are exposed to frequent residential mobility in early childhood after adjustment for socioeconomic and other confounders.
How glaucoma patient characteristics, self-efficacy and patient–provider communication are associated with eye drop technique
Authors: Sayner Robyn , Carpenter Delesha M , Robin Alan L , Blalock Susan J , Muir Kelly W , Vitko Michelle , Hartnett Mary Elizabeth , Lawrence Scott D , Giangiacomo Annette L , Tudor Gail , Goldsmith Jason A , Sleath Betsy
Published: August 2015

Objectives

The objective of this study was to examine the extent to which patient characteristics, eye drop technique self-efficacy, and ophthalmologist–patient communication about eye drop administration are associated with glaucoma patients' ability to instil a single drop, have the drop land in the eye, and avoid touching the applicator tip of the medication bottle to the eye or face while self-administering eye drops.

Methods

Glaucoma patients (n = 279) were recruited from six ophthalmology clinics. Medical visits were videotape-recorded. Afterwards, patients were interviewed and demonstrated administering an eye drop on a videotaped-recording. Generalized estimating equations were used to analyse the data.

Key findings

Ophthalmologists provided eye drop administration instruction to 40 patients. Patients with more years of education were significantly more likely to both instil a single drop (P = 0.017) and have the drop land in their eye (P = 0.017). Women were significantly more likely to touch the applicator tip to their eyes or face (P = 0.014). Patients with severe glaucoma (P = 0.016), women (P = 0.026), and patients who asked at least one eye drop administration question (P = 0.001) were significantly less likely to instil a single drop. Patients with arthritis were significantly less likely to have the drop land in their eye (P = 0.008). African American patients were significantly less likely to touch the applicator tip to their eyes or face (P = 0.008).

Conclusions

Some glaucoma patients have a difficult time self-administering eye drops. As so few patients received eye drop administration instruction from their providers, there is an opportunity for pharmacists to complement care.
Characterizing Brittle Fracture by Modeling Crack Deflection Angles from the Microstructure
Authors: Porz Lukas , Wei Sai , Zhao Jiamin , Patterson Eric A. , Liu Bin
Published: August 2015

This study introduces a simple analytical model for fracture toughness to bridge the length scales from grain size to bulk thickness by assembling a virtual crack path from the angles recorded on an unfractured microstructure, which is a great challenge in fracture mechanics due to the high geometrical complexity. Good agreement is found between a crack deflection angle distribution measured from 5764 crack segments and the prediction by the model and the possible influence of residual stress is quasi quantitatively discussed. A total of 7.4% of the crack segments observed acted as crack bridges, while 7.3% was predicted by the model. A quantification of how high an angle needs to be to turn crack deflection into crack bridging is given. The ratio of fracture toughness from grain boundary to grain, G1c(gb)/G1c(g), was measured indirectly from all samples to be between 0.3 and 0.35.
Vemurafenib‐associated Dupuytren‐ and Ledderhose palmoplantar fibromatosis in metastatic melanoma patients
Authors: Vandersleyen V. , Grosber M. , Wilgenhof S. , De Kock J. , Neyns B. , Gutermuth J.
Published: August 2015

Background

The BRAF‐inhibitor vemurafenib, used in patients with metastatic melanoma, induces multiple cutaneous side‐effects.

Objective

The aim of this work was to evaluate the development of palmoplantar fibromatosis in a population of patients treated with the BRAF inhibitor vemurafenib.

Methods

Between April 2011 and February 2013, we initiated a treatment with vemurafenib in 53 patients with an unresectable stage IIIC or stage IV melanoma. The patients were followed‐up on a regular base to monitor possible side‐effects.

Results

A plantar or palmar fibromatosis was observed in five of 53 patients treated with vemurafenib. In four of these patients other risk factors for the development of palmoplantar fibromatosis were absent.

Conclusion

The BRAF‐inhibitor vemurafenib might induce palmoplantar fibromatosis.
Comparison of ambulatory blood pressure measurement with home, office and pharmacy measurements: is arterial blood pressure measured at pharmacy reliable?
Authors: Mutlu Sinan , Sari Oktay , Arslan Erol , Aydogan Umit , Doganer Yusuf C. , Koc Bayram
Published: August 2015

Rationale, aims and objectives

Standardizing arterial blood pressure (BP) measurement is difficult because of different performers like doctor or pharmacy employee. We investigated the reliability between different BP measurement methods.

Methods

The study was conducted in an internal medicine service with 160 patients in Ankara, Turkey. First, the subjects' BP was measured by doctor. Then, 24‐hour BP monitoring devices were placed. Participants were then instructed to measure their BPs both at home and in pharmacy. The next day, arterial BP was measured by the doctor for the second time.

Results

The prevalence rates of masked and white coat hypertension were 8.8% (n = 14) and 8.1% (n = 13), respectively. There was no statistically significant differences between ambulatory measurement and home, office and pharmacy measurements (P > 0.05). The consistency rate between ambulatory and home measurements was 97.5% (kappa = 0.947, P < 0.001). The consistency rate between ambulatory and pharmacy measurements was 82.5% (kappa = 0.634, P < 0.001). When compared with ambulatory measurement, the most sensitive (98.0%) and most specific (96.8%) method was home measurement. There was a moderate positive correlation between ambulatory and other measurements in both systolic and diastolic values. There was a positive and very strong correlation between ambulatory and home measurements of systolic and diastolic ABP values (respectively; r = 0.926 and r = 0.968) and there was a statistically significant relation between these measurements (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The results of all measurement methods were close to each other. The most sensitive and specific method was home measurement when compared with ambulatory measurement. But both office and pharmacy measurements had also high sensitivity and specificity.
The Dynamics of Gasoline Prices: Evidence from Daily French Micro Data
Authors: GAUTIER ERWAN , SAOUT RONAN LE
Published: August 2015

Using millions of individual gasoline prices collected at a daily frequency, we examine the speed at which market prices of refined oil are transmitted to retail gasoline prices in France. For that, we estimate a reduced‐form model of state‐dependent pricing where thresholds triggering price changes are allowed to vary over time and depend on the duration since the last price change. We find that the degree of pass‐through of wholesale prices to retail gasoline prices is on average 0.77 for diesel and 0.67 for petrol and depend on local market characteristics. The duration for a shock to be fully transmitted into prices is about 10 days. There is no significant asymmetry in the transmission of wholesale price to retail prices. Finally, the duration since the last price change has a significant effect on thresholds triggering price changes but a large variance of idiosyncratic shocks on thresholds is also crucial to replicate the size distribution of price changes.
Responding to a Shadow Banking Crisis: The Lessons of 1763
Authors: QUINN STEPHEN , ROBERDS WILLIAM
Published: August 2015

In August 1763, northern Europe experienced a financial crisis with numerous parallels to the 2008 Lehman episode. The crisis affected merchant banks that were funded by short‐term credit instead of deposits. We use archival data to show that these “shadow” banks suffered a sudden loss of funding after the failure of a major bank. The central bank at the hub of the crisis, the Bank of Amsterdam, responded by broadening the range of collateral it accepted. The data also show how this emergency liquidity helped to contain the crisis, by preventing the collapse of at least two other major banks.