bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Putting resilient sustainability into strategy decisions – case studies
Authors: Winnard Julie , Lee Jacquetta , Skipp David
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report the results of testing a new approach to strategic sustainability and resilience – Sustainable Resilient Strategic Decision-Support (SuReSDS™).

Design/methodology/approach

The approach was developed and tested using action-research case studies at industrial companies. It successfully allowed the participants to capture different types of value affected by their choices, optimise each strategy’s resilience against different future scenarios and compare the results to find a “best” option.

Findings

SuReSDS™ enabled a novel integration of environmental and social sustainability into strategy by considering significant risks or opportunities for an enhanced group of stakeholders. It assisted users to identify and manage risks from different kinds of sustainability-related uncertainty by applying resilience techniques. Users incorporated insights into real-world strategies.

Research limitations/implications

Since the case studies and test organisations are limited in number, generalisation from the results is difficult and requires further research.

Practical implications

The approach enables companies to utilise in-house and external experts more effectively to develop sustainable and resilient strategies.

Originality/value

The research described develops theories linking sustainability and resilience for organisations, particularly for strategy, to provide a new consistent, rigorous and flexible approach for applying these theories. The approach has been tested successfully and benefited real-world strategy decisions.
Management towards financial sustainability for private health companies
Authors: Marques Clemente Lucas Manoel , Pereira Salgado Junior Alexandre , Falsarella Júnior Eduardo , Alves de Souza Junior Marco Antonio , Chiaretti Novi Juliana , de Castro Moura Duarte Alexandre
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to identify a set of management practices towards financial sustainability for Brazilian private health insurance and plans companies.

Design/methodology/approach

The present paper uses a bimodal two-step approach. The first step was quantitative, with the data envelopment analysis (DEA) technique in 521 Brazilian private health companies (PHCs). At this stage, the objective was to obtain scores to rank the PHCs regarding their financial performance and services in 2013. From the quantitative analysis, two PHCs displaying contrasting performances were selected and interviewed to identify differentiating management practices.

Findings

The Group Medicine PHCs displayed a higher performance in the financial approach. Following the qualitative comparative analysis, the financially sustainable PHC presented the following differentials: a high level of financial management professionalization, a deliberate policy for the control and prevention of claims and a larger share of revenues from health plans over service revenues.

Research limitations/implications

However, a limitation of the study lies in the fact that by not using any cash flow or financial result variables, the financial efficiency model used in the study does not evaluate the generation capacity of long-term results. It is noteworthy that, because it is a multiple case study, the results found cannot be generalized and should be understood only as characteristics of the studied PHCs in here.

Practical implications

The present paper can contribute to managers of Brazilian PCHs towards the implementation of management tools aimed at the sustainability of those organizations.

Originality/value

Despite the importance of the Supplemental Health Insurance System for public health in Brazil, PHCs have received a high volume of complaints and struggled with constant financial problems.
Dynamic analysis of expression of chemokine and cytokine gene responses to H5N1 and H9N2 avian influenza viruses in DF‐1 cells
Authors: Luo Chang , Liu Jianxin , Qi Wenbao , Ren Xujiao , Lu Rong , Liao Ming , Ning Zhangyong
Published: March 2018

H5N1 and H9N2 are the most important causes of avian influenza in China. Chemokines and cytokines play important roles in inflammatory response that clearly differ between H5N1 and H9N2 infection. To investigate whether chemokines and cytokines are differentially regulated following H5N1 and H9N2 AIVs infection, dynamic expression of chemokines and cytokines, including IL8L1, IL8L2, CX3CL1, CCL5, CCL20, K203, SCYA4, XLC1, CCLi10, CCL19, IFN‐α, IFN‐β, IL‐1β, IL‐6 and TNF‐α, were analyzed by real‐time quantitative RT‐PCR in DF‐1 cells. It was found that IL8L1, IL8L2, CX3CL1, CCL5, CCL20, K203, SCYA4, IFN‐α, IFN‐β, IL‐1β, IL‐6 and TNF‐α increased significantly after induction of H5N1 or H9N2 AIV infection, whereas no expression of XCL1, CCLi10 or CCL19 was detected. H9N2 AIV infection was associated with much stronger chemokine responses than infection with H5N1, whereas the cytokines showed opposite results. It was found that K203 is a constant chemotactic factor independent of subtype of AIVs and infectious dose, CCL20 and IL‐1β are constant regardless of the infectious dose but depend on the subtype of AIV, chemotactic factors IL8L1, IL8L2 and CCL5 are dependent both on subtype of AIVs and infectious dose, and K203, CX3CL1, SCYA4, CCL20, IFN‐α, IL‐1β and TNF‐α are specific to responses to H5N1 AIV infection whereas K203, CCL20, IFN‐β, IL‐1β and IL‐6 are specific to H9N2 infection. These results provide basic data for explaining differences in inflammation and phenotypes of histopathological changes caused by H5N1 and H9N2 and add new information on the roles of chemokines and cytokines in virulence of AIVs.
Central place foragers and moving stimuli: A hidden‐state model to discriminate the processes affecting movement
Authors: Pirotta Enrico , Edwards Ewan W. J. , New Leslie , Thompson Paul M.
Published: March 2018

Human activities can influence the movement of organisms, either repelling or attracting individuals depending on whether they interfere with natural behavioural patterns or enhance access to food. To discern the processes affecting such interactions, an appropriate analytical approach must reflect the motivations driving behavioural decisions at multiple scales.

In this study, we developed a modelling framework for the analysis of foraging trips by central place foragers. By recognising the distinction between movement phases at a larger scale and movement steps at a finer scale, our model can identify periods when animals are actively following moving attractors in their landscape.

We applied the framework to GPS tracking data of northern fulmars Fulmarus glacialis, paired with contemporaneous fishing boat locations, to quantify the putative scavenging activity of these seabirds on discarded fish and offal. We estimated the rate and scale of interaction between individual birds and fishing boats and the interplay with other aspects of a foraging trip.

The model classified periods when birds were heading out to sea, returning towards the colony or following the closest boat. The probability of switching towards a boat declined with distance and varied depending on the phase of the trip. The maximum distance at which a bird switched towards the closest boat was estimated around 35 km, suggesting the use of olfactory information to locate food. Individuals spent a quarter of a foraging trip, on average, following fishing boats, with marked heterogeneity among trips and individuals.

Our approach can be used to characterise interactions between central place foragers and different anthropogenic or natural stimuli. The model identifies the processes influencing central place foraging at multiple scales, which can improve our understanding of the mechanisms underlying movement behaviour and characterise individual variation in interactions with a range of human activities that may attract or repel these species. Therefore, it can be adapted to explore the movement of other species that are subject to multiple dynamic drivers.
Quality of life in children with developmental language disorder
Authors: Eadie Patricia , Conway Laura , Hallenstein Birgit , Mensah Fiona , McKean Cristina , Reilly Sheena
Published: March 2018

Background

Developmental language disorder (DLD) is common in children, but little is known about its association with quality of life (QoL) in middle childhood. QoL is a complex construct, aligning with an individual's sense of well‐being and is related to functional limitations associated with DLD. Biopsychosocial models of disability account for both the extent and functional limitations of the impairment; however, the DLD literature rarely reports on both aspects. Studies are required that detail QoL in children with and without DLD.

Aims

To investigate the association between DLD, identified at 4 years and persisting at 7 years, and QoL over 4, 7 and 9 years; to compare QoL for children whose DLD was mild to moderate and severe at 7 years; and to investigate how variables known to impact on language development (e.g., maternal vocabulary), as well as social–emotional behaviours at 4 and 7 years contribute to QoL at 9 years.

Methods & Procedures

The analyses included 872 children who participated in the 4‐, 7‐ and 9‐year data collection of the Early Language in Victoria Study (ELVS). We compared the parent‐reported QoL profiles at 4, 7 and 9 years for children with and without DLD, and those with mild to moderate and severe DLD using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL). We conducted regression analyses to estimate how child, family and environmental factors predicted QoL at 9 years, including social–emotional behaviours measured using the Strengths & Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) at 4 and 7 years.

Outcome & Results

Children with DLD (n = 70) had lower parent‐reported QoL at 9 years than typically developing children (n = 802), with mean scores of 74.9 and 83.9 respectively. There was no evidence of differences in QoL between those with severe (n = 14) or mild to moderate (n = 56) DLD. In contrast to their peers, children with DLD had a profile of declining QoL between 4 and 9 years. For all children, language skills at 7 years predicted QoL at 9 years. For children with DLD, emotional symptoms and peer problems at 4 years plus SDQ Total Difficulties at 7 years were predictive of lower QoL at 9 years.

Conclusions & Implications

Children with DLD had a lower QoL than their typical peers at 9 years and, contrary to previous studies, differences in QoL were not observed with DLD severity. Co‐occurring social–emotional problems appear to play an important role in contributing to the lower QoL experienced by children with DLD. Consideration of associated functional limitations is required to support the communication and social development of all young children with DLD.
Zombie Board: Board Tenure and Firm Performance
Authors: HUANG STERLING , HILARY GILLES
Published: March 2018

We show that board tenure exhibits an inverted U‐shaped relation with firm value and accounting performance. The quality of corporate decisions, such as M&A, financial reporting quality, and CEO compensation, also has a quadratic relation with board tenure. Our results are consistent with the interpretation that directors’ on‐the‐job learning improves firm value up to a threshold, at which point entrenchment dominates and firm performance suffers. To address endogeneity concerns, we use a sample of firms in which an outside director suffered a sudden death, and find that sudden deaths that move board tenure away from (toward) the empirically observed optimum level in the cross‐section are associated with negative (positive) announcement returns. The quality of corporate decisions also follows an inverted U‐shaped pattern in a sample of firms affected by the death of a director.
Local House Price Diffusion
Authors: Cohen Jeffrey P. , Zabel Jeffrey
Published: March 2018

We contribute to the literature on house price diffusion by carrying out our analysis at three levels: CBSA (nationwide), town and census tract (Greater Boston Area). We estimate fixed‐effect models of house price growth on lagged growth (“Persistence”), nearby lagged growth (“Spillovers”) and Fundamentals growth. CBSA‐level Persistence and Spillover Effects are positive and significant. These large ripple/contagion effects likely contributed to the recent national‐level housing downturn. We find evidence of smaller town‐level Persistence and Spillover Effects. Hence, diffusion appears stronger across than within housing markets. Fundamentals and price expectations drive price diffusion, leaving room for bubbles from future price overoptimism.
Cold tolerance characteristics of Korean population of potato tuber moth, Phthorimaea operculella (Zeller), (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae)
Authors: Aryal Sunil , Jung Chuleui
Published: March 2018

Potato tuber moth (PTM), Phthorimaea operculella (Zeller), (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) is an invasive insect pest damaging solanaceous crops. We measured the supercooling point (SCP) and survival at low temperature of different development stages to determine which would be capable of overwintering in the Korean climate and adapting to low temperatures. The SCP ranges from −23.8°C of the egg to −16.8 of fourth instar larvae (L4). After short periods of low temperature acclimation in L3 (third instar larva), L4 and prepupae, only the prepupal stage showed a significant lowered SCP from −20.78 to −22.37°C. When exposed to different subzero temperature for two hours the egg turned out to be the most cold tolerant stage showing LT50 of −21.7°C followed by the pupal stage with −15.89°C. One hundred percent mortality was observed when the larvae or adults were exposed to temperatures below −15.1°C even for a period as short as 2 h. The results suggest that PTM pupae and egg would be the main overwintering stage in Korea where winter temperature does not drop below −15°C.
Caffeine Extraction from Raw and Roasted Coffee Beans
Authors: Chiang Donyau , Lin Chih‐Yang , Hu Chen‐Ti , Lee Sanboh
Published: March 2018

Coffee is a stimulant, psychoactive, popular daily beverage, and its caffeine affects human physiological health and behavior. These important issues prompted us to study caffeine extraction from both the raw and roasted coffee beans of 3 types at different temperatures. A hemispheric model is developed to simulate the extraction process of the caffeine from the coffee beans of hemisphere is proposed. The experimental data are in good agreement with the predicted model. The effective diffusivities of caffeine in both the raw and roasted beans increase with temperature in all 3 types. An incubation period, decreasing with increasing temperature, is observed in all samples studied. Caffeine extraction in roasted beans is more rapid than that for the raw beans and the time difference is significant at low temperatures. In both the raw and roasted samples, caffeine diffusion in the raw beans and the incubation behavior are thermally activated processes. Single activation energies are obtained for diffusion within the extraction temperature range for all beans tested with the exception of one type of the coffee beans, Mandheling, which exhibits 2 activation energies in raw samples. The surface energies of the epidermis of the raw beans and roasted beans obtained from the contact angle measurements are used to interpret the difference of incubation periods.

Practical Application

This study has a potential application to the decaffeinated coffee industry.Caffeine affects human physiological health and behavior so that caffeine extraction from coffee beans of different types at different temperatures is important for product refining and customers.
UHPLC/MS Identifying Potent α‐glucosidase Inhibitors of Grape Pomace via Enzyme Immobilized Method
Authors: Zhu Wenjun , Sun Shi , Yang Fei , Zhou Kequan
Published: March 2018

α‐Glucosidases have been a major target in controlling and managing postprandial blood glucose and therefore diabetes treatment. This study aims to further identify and purify active compounds from the most active ethyl acetate fraction collected previously in Tinta Cão grape pomace extract (TCEE) using a newly developed and highly effective immobilization method, including obtaining compounds previously shown to inhibit the enzyme. Purification used crosslinked chitosan beads with α‐glucosidases bound to polymer, which acted as immobilized enzyme vehicle to collect inhibitors. Compounds absorbed into the beads were eluded using methanol, where collected fraction was subjected to UHPLC‐MS analysis to identify active compounds. Results presented 5 major compounds: viniferifuran (amurensin H), p‐coumaroyl‐6‐O‐D‐glucopyranoside, p‐coumaroyl‐6‐O‐hexoside, (epi)catechin‐hexoside, 10‐carboxyl‐pyranopeonidin 3‐O‐(6′′‐O‐p‐coumaroyl)‐glucoside. These findings indicated the particular molecules can be utilized as potent α‐glucosidases inhibitors, and may be further tested for postprandial glucose control.

Practical Application

A potential approach enriched and identified α‐glucosidase inhibitors of grape pomace. Set‐up of UHPLC/MS detection and identification of active compounds provide qualify assessment in developing grape pomace extract into potent dietary supplement and new drug for diabetes.
Application of Lactobacillus plantarum in Functional Products Based on Fermented Buckwheat
Authors: Matejčeková Zuzana , Soltészová Friderika , Ačai Pavel , Liptáková Denisa , Valík Ľubomír
Published: March 2018

In this work, 12 plant‐based potential probiotic mashes were produced by fermenting buckwheat with lactic acid cocci of the Fresco DVS 1010 culture and the human‐derived isolate Lactobacillus plantarum HM1. The effect of single and coculture fermentation was studied at 30 and 37 ± 0.5 °C for 8 hr (5% CO2), followed by a storage period of 21 days (6 ± 0.5 °C). Although milk is the typical growth medium for lactic acid bacteria (LAB), presumably viable counts of Fresco reached levels of 108 to 109 CFU/mL (specific growth rates ranging from 1.07 to 1.40 hr−1) with higher counts in coculture fermentation (13%) that differed statistically significantly (P < 0.05). After storage, 194 to 4700 mg/kg lactic acid was found in the mashes, with significantly higher contents after cocultivation (11% to 96%). Based on the overall acceptance of the designed products, milk‐based mashes right after the fermentation were evaluated as the most satisfactory (3.3 to 3.6). Those after the storage period (21 days) exhibited an attractive sensory acceptability (2.2 to 3.2).
Aluminum and Heavy Metal Accumulation in Tea Leaves: An Interplay of Environmental and Plant Factors and an Assessment of Exposure Risks to Consumers
Authors: Peng Chuan‐yi , Zhu Xiao‐hui , Hou Ru‐yan , Ge Gao‐fei , Hua Ri‐mao , Wan Xiao‐chun , Cai Hui‐mei
Published: March 2018

Environmental and plant factors (soil condition, variety, season, and maturity) and exposure risks of aluminum (Al), manganese (Mn), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and copper (Cu) in tea leaves were investigated. The concentrations of these metals in tea leaves could not be predicted by their total concentrations in the soil. During any one season, there were differences in Al, Mn, and Cd levels between tea varieties. Seasonally, autumn tea and/or summer tea had far higher levels of Al, Mn, Pb, and Cd than did spring tea. Tea leaf maturity positively correlated with the concentrations of Al, Mn, Pb, and Cd, but negatively with Cu. The calculated average daily intake doses (mg/ [kg•d]) for these metal elements were 0.14 (Al), 0.11 (Mn), 2.70 × 10−3 (Cu), 2.80 × 10−4 (Pb), and 2.88 × 10−6 (Cd). The hazard quotient values of each metal were all significantly lower than risk level (=1), suggesting that, for the general population, consumption of tea does not result in the intake of excessive amounts of Al, Mn, Pb, Cd, or Cu. This study identified the factors that can be monitored in the field to decrease consumer exposure to Al and Mn through tea consumption.

Practical Application

Environmental and plant factors influence aluminum and heavy metal accumulation in tea leaves. Consumers of tea are not ingesting excessive Al, Mn, Pb, Cd, or Cu. Trackable factors were identified to manage exposure levels.
Drivers of Preference and Perception of Freshness in Roasted Peanuts (Arachis spp.) for European Consumers
Authors: Lykomitros Dimitrios , Fogliano Vincenzo , Capuano Edoardo
Published: March 2018

Roasted peanuts are a popular snack in Europe, but their drivers of liking and perceived freshness have not been previously studied with European consumers. Consumer research to date has been focused on U.S. consumers, and only on specific peanut cultivars. In this study, 26 unique samples were produced from peanuts of different types, cultivars, origins, and with different process technologies (including baking, frying, and maceration). The peanut samples were subjected to sensory (expert panel, SpectrumTM) and instrumental analysis (color, headspace volatiles, sugar profile, large deformation compression tests, and graded by size) and were hedonically rated by consumers in The Netherlands, Spain, and Turkey (n > 200 each). Preference Mapping (PREFMAP) on mean liking models revealed that the drivers of liking are similar across the three countries. Sweet taste, roasted peanut, dark roast, and sweet aromas and the color b* value were related to increased liking, and raw bean aroma and bitter taste with decreased liking. Further partial least square regression (PLSR) modeling of liking and perceived freshness against instrumental attributes showed that the color coordinates in combination with sucrose content and a select few headspace volatiles were strong predictors of both preference and perceived freshness. Finally, additional PLSR models focusing on the headspace volatiles only showed that liking and ‘‘fresh’’ attributes were correlated with the presence of several pyrroles in the volatile fraction, and inversely related to ‘‘stale’’ and to hexanal and 2‐heptanone.

Practical Application

This study provides insight into which flavor, taste, and appearance attributes drive liking and disliking of roasted peanuts for European consumers. The drivers are linked back to analytical attributes that can be measured instrumentally, thereby reducing the reliance on costly sensory panels. Particular emphasis is placed on color as a predictor of preference, because of the low cost of the measuring equipment, it is available to even smaller producers. In addition to preference, the study also examines whether product attributes that drive perceived freshness exist. The results can be used to design products with high acceptability across several countries within Europe.
Evaluation of Models for Temperature‐Dependent Viscosity Changes in Dairy Protein Beverage Formulations During Thermal Processing
Authors: Kelleher Clodagh M. , O'Mahony James A , Kelly Alan L. , O'Callaghan Donal J. , McCarthy Noel A.
Published: March 2018

Rheological modeling as a function of temperature is a useful tool for describing products undergoing thermal processing. The rheological behavior of a range of dairy‐based (4%, w/w) protein beverages was investigated for applicability to semi‐empirical temperature‐dependent viscosity equations. The viscosity at 16.8 rad/s of the beverages was measured during heating, holding, and cooling over a temperature range of 25 to 90 oC using a rheometer with starch pasting cell geometry. Five established fitting methods were applied based on the Arrhenius and Williams–Landel–Ferry (WLF) equations using nonlinear regression analysis. A two‐parameter WLF (WLF2) model, using viscosity at a reference temperature of 25 oC resulted in high R2 values (0.974 to 0.988) and a statistically superior fit compared to the Arrhenius, Generalized Arrhenius, and exponential equations (P < 0.001). Deviation from the WLF2 modeled equation was used to describe and investigate the effect formulation had on the changes in viscosity during thermal heating. This study successfully applied the WLF equation to a liquid protein system, proving that a consistent and close fit can be achieved across a range of formulations. A rapid, quantitative method for viscosity–temperature profile evaluation is presented, which can ease product development and optimization of product processing stability.

Practical Application

This study validated the use of the Williams–Landel–Ferry equation to describe the behavior of dairy beverages during thermal processing, providing a better fit to rheological data than the widely used Arrhenius‐based equations. In conjunction with the WLF equation, a method was presented which reduced the complex rheological data to a single value, which can aid in the comparison of formulations for product development and optimization in both research and industry.
Effect of Different Heat Treatments on In Vitro Digestion of Egg White Proteins and Identification of Bioactive Peptides in Digested Products
Authors: Wang Xuefen , Qiu Ning , Liu Yaping
Published: March 2018

Chicken eggs are ingested by people after a series of processes, but to date, only a few studies have explored the nutrient variations caused by different heat treatments. In this work, the impacts of different heat treatments (4, 56, 65, and 100 °C on the in vitro digestibility of egg white proteins were investigated by hydrolysis with pepsin or pepsin + pancreatin to simulate human gastrointestinal digestion, and the digested products were identified using Nano‐LC‐ESI‐MS/MS. Egg white proteins treated at 65 °C had the highest in vitro pepsin digestibility value whereas the pepsin + pancreatin digestibility increased significantly (P < 0.05) as the cooking temperature was raised. The molecular weight distribution of the digested products indicated that, when compared to pepsin‐treated samples, pepsin + pancreatin‐treated samples contained more low‐molecular‐weight peptides (m/z < 849.2) with higher signal intensities. The number of unique peptides identified in every digestion product showed a positive correlation with their in vitro digestibility. Additionally, bioactive peptides such as antioxidant, antimicrobial and antihypertensive peptides were found present in egg white digested products, especially in samples treated at 4 and 100 °C.

Practical Application

These findings may facilitate a better understanding of nutritive values of egg white proteins and their digested products under different cooking temperatures, such as antibacterial and antioxidant peptides identified in the digestion samples treated, respectively at 4 and 100 °C. This study also provided information for improving the applications of eggs in the food industry as well as a theoretical basis for egg consumption.
Prevalence of Virulence Genes in Extended‐Spectrum β‐lactamases (ESBLs)‐Producing Salmonella in Retail Raw Chicken in China
Authors: Qiao Jing , Alali Walid Q. , Liu Jiangshan , Wang Yaping , Chen Sheng , Cui Shenghui , Yang Baowei
Published: March 2018

Extended‐spectrum β‐lactamases (ESBLs)‐producing Salmonella is a tremendous hazard to food safety and public health. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of 30 virulence genes (avrA, sipA, sseC, marT, rhuM, siiE, pipA, pipD, envR, gogB, gtgA, sodC1, sseI, irsA, sopE2, spvC, rck, spvR, fhuA, msgA, pagK, srfj, stkc, fimA, lpfD, pefA, stcC, steB, stjB, and tcfA) in 156 ESBLs‐producing Salmonella isolates that belonged to 21 serotypes. These isolates were recovered from retail raw chicken samples collected from 5 provinces and 2 national cities in China between 2007 and 2012. The results indicated that 154 (98.7%) ESBLs‐producing Salmonella isolates carried at least 1 virulence gene, 138 (88.5%) simultaneously carried at least 5 virulence genes, 107 (68.6%) carried 10 or more, and 20 (12.8%) carried 15 or more virulence genes. The most frequently detected virulence genes were marT (n = 127, 81.4%), siiE (n = 126, 80.8%), msgA (n = 121, 77.6%), and sipA (n = 121, 77.6%). Significant difference was identified between detection percentages of virulence genes of rhuM, pipD, envR, sopE2, pagK, lpfD, steB, and stjB in S. Indiana, S. Thompson, S. Enteritidis, S. Typhimurium, S. Shubra, S. Edinburg, and S. Agona isolates. Distribution of virulence genes were significantly influenced by sampling districts (P < 0.01), especially for sodC1 and pipD, and then were msgA and sopE2. The heatmap showed the frequencies of virulence genes in ESBLs‐producing isolates from retail chickens in southern, central, and northern regions of China were completely different from each other. Based on our findings, ESBLs‐producing Salmonella of retail chicken origin were common carriers of multiple virulence genes and were regionally distributed.
Exopolysaccharides from a Codonopsis pilosula endophyte activate macrophages and inhibit cancer cell proliferation and migration
Authors: Chen Min , Li Yuanyuan , Liu Zhu , Qu Yajun , Zhang Huajie , Li Dengwen , Zhou Jun , Xie Songbo , Liu Min
Published: March 2018

Background

Exopolysaccharides with structural diversity have shown wide applications in biomaterial, food, and pharmaceutical industries. Herein, we isolated an endophytic strain, 14‐DS‐1, from the traditional medicinal plant Codonopsis pilosula to elucidate the characteristics and anti‐cancer activities of purified exopolysaccharides.

Methods

HPLC and GC‐MS were conducted to purify and characterize the exopolysaccharides isolated from 14‐DS‐1. Quantitative RT‐PCR, cell migration assays, immunofluorescence staining, and flow cytometry analysis were conducted to investighate the biological activity of DSPS.

Results

We demonstrated that exopolysaccharides isolated from 14‐DS‐1 (DSPS), which were predominately composed of six monosaccharides, showed anti‐cancer activities. Biological activity analysis revealed that exposure to DSPS induced macrophage activation and polarization by promoting the production of TNF‐α and nitric oxide. Further analysis revealed that DSPS treatment promoted macrophage infiltration, whereas cancer cell migration was suppressed. In addition, DSPS exposure led to S‐phase arrest and apoptosis in cancer cells. Immunofluorescence staining revealed that treatment with DSPS resulted in defects in spindle orientation and positioning.

Conclusion

These findings thus suggest that DSPS may have promising potential in cancer therapy.
HLO1‐south: An Early Neolithic site in Wadi al‐Hilo (Sharjah, UAE)
Authors: Uerpmann Margarethe , Uerpmann Hans‐Peter , Hinderer Matthias , Lindauer Susanne , Neureiter Christina , Ghukasyan Robert , Kesejyan Suren , Petrosyan Arthur
Published: March 2018

Site HLO1 (Sharjah, UAE), situated in a particularly favourable geographical position, has provided an extraordinary range of anthropogenic radiocarbon dates, spanning before 8000 to Zero BCE. The Neolithic is represented by finds from the eighth to the fifth millennium BCE. Apart from the dated fireplaces, however, there are almost no typical artefacts of this period. Small stone structures appear to have been early Neolithic graves. A middle Neolithic grave consisted of a large rounded stone heap which was reused as a grave during the Late Bronze Age. The site is interpreted as a campsite of nomadic herders, used throughout the Neolithic period. After a break in the fourth millennium BCE, the site became a Bronze Age smelting site which continued to be settled until the Late Iron Age.
Vasopressin and nitroglycerin decrease portal and hepatic venous pressure and hepato‐splanchnic blood flow
Authors: Wisén E. , Svennerholm K. , Bown L. S. , Houltz E. , Rizell M. , Lundin S. , Ricksten S.‐E.
Published: March 2018

Background

Various methods are used to reduce venous blood pressure in the hepato‐splanchnic circulation, and hence minimise blood loss during liver surgery. Previous studies show that combination of vasopressin and nitroglycerin reduces portal pressure and flow in patients with portal hypertension, and in this study we investigated this combination in patients with normal portal pressure.

Method

In all, 13 patients were studied. Measurements were made twice to confirm baseline (C1 and BL), during vasopressin infusion 4.8 U/h (V), and during vasopressin infusion combined with nitroglycerin infusion (V + N). Portal venous pressure (PVP), hepatic venous pressure (HVP), central haemodynamics and arterial and venous blood gases were obtained at each measuring point, and portal (splanchnic) and hepato‐splanchnic blood flow changes were calculated.

Results

Vasopressin alone did not affect PVP, whereas HVP increased slightly. In combination with nitroglycerin, PVP decreased from 10.1 ± 1.6 to 8.9 ± 1.3 mmHg (P < 0.0001), and HVP decreased from 7.9 ± 1.9 to 6.2 ± 1.3 mmHg (P = 0.001). Vasopressin reduced portal blood flow by 47 ± 19% and hepatic venous flow by 11 ± 18%, respectively. Addition of nitroglycerin further reduced portal‐ and hepatic flow by 55 ± 13% and 30 ± 13%, respectively. Vasopressin alone had minor effects on central haemodynamics, whereas addition of nitroglycerin reduced cardiac index (3.2 ± 0.7 to 2.7 ± 0.5; P < 0.0001). The arterial‐portal vein lactate gradient was unaffected.

Conclusion

The combination of vasopressin and nitroglycerin decreases portal pressure and hepato‐splanchnic blood flow, and could be a potential treatment to reduce bleeding in liver resection surgery.
Comparison of guidelines for the treatment of unipolar depression: a focus on pharmacotherapy and neurostimulation
Authors: Bayes A. J. , Parker G. B.
Published: March 2018

Objective

To determine the level of agreement across a set of evidence‐based guidelines for management of the unipolar depressive disorders and with a focus on physical treatments.

Method

A literature search was undertaken using the terms ‘depression’, ‘depressive’ and ‘guidelines’, using PubMed, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and the National Guideline Clearinghouse. Twelve national psychiatric or professional guideline‐producing organizations were identified from the period 2007–2017, with guidelines qualitatively reviewed by two assessors.

Results

For major depressive disorder (MDD), there was general consensus to use an antidepressant (AD) in cases of greater severity, although disagreement on AD use in mild to moderate depression. There was some agreement on choice of AD class in first‐line treatment recommendations, though great variability in second‐ and third‐line management particularly in recommended augmentation and combined AD strategies. Electroconvulsive therapy was considered in all but one guideline, with other neurostimulation treatments being less consistently covered and with variable recommendations. Finally, there was low consistency in the management of dysthymia, persistent depressive disorder and treatment resistant depression.

Conclusion

Our review identifies varying levels of consistency in guideline recommendations. Strategies to improve reliability in guideline formulation should also improve their validity.
What do women with substance use disorders want?
Authors: Grella Christine E.
Published: March 2018

Commentary to: Do women with complex alcohol and other drug use histories want women‐only residential treatment?
How single events can influence decision‐making in foraging Vespula germanica (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) social wasps
Authors: Moreyra Sabrina , Lozada Mariana
Published: March 2018

Social insects are known for their behavioural plasticity and learning abilities. In the present work, we evaluated whether a single past experience could influence Vespula germanica (F.) foraging behaviour by analysing wasp response in two changing situations: when food was displaced at different distances from a previously learned location and when the amount of resource was significantly decreased. In the former case, wasps were allowed to collect meat once from a dish which was later displaced 300, 600 or 900 mm from the previous location. Thus, on the second visit, wasps encountered an empty dish in place of the previously baited one. We recorded the time taken to find the displaced food, the number of hovers over the previously learned location and the direction of first approach of returning foragers. Wasps spent less time searching at the previously learnt site when the dish with food was displaced 300 mm rather than 600 or 900 mm from the learned location. In the second experiment, when two dishes with food were simultaneously offered, one containing 20 g and another 80 g, wasps preferred the 80 g dish. On their second visit, we switched the position of the dishes and recorded which dish wasps collected food from. We found that most wasps collected food from the previously learned location and not from the dish with the more abundant resource. This study illustrates the remarkable influence of a single collecting experience on V. germanica subsequent foraging behaviour.
Placental immune state shifts with gestational age
Authors: Lewis Emma L. , Sierra Luz‐Jeannette , Barila Guillermo O. , Brown Amy G. , Porrett Paige M. , Elovitz Michal A.
Published: March 2018

Problem

Placental immunologic functions are implicated in both the maintenance of a healthy pregnancy and the pathogenesis of obstetric complications. Immune populations at the maternal‐fetal interface are hypothesized to support fetomaternal tolerance, defend the fetus from infection, and contribute to labor initiation. Despite the many potential roles of placental immune cells in normal and abnormal pregnancy, little is known about placental immune population dynamics over gestation, particularly near parturition.

Method of study

A daily placental immune cell census was established in a murine model by flow cytometry from mid to late gestation and compared to the maternal systemic immune census. Shifts in the placental immune state were further characterized through cytokine ELISAs.

Results

The placental immune census is distinct from the maternal systemic immune census, although the cells are primarily maternal in origin. Near term parturition, the placenta contains fewer CD11c‐positive myeloid cells and regulatory T cells, and there is a concurrent decrease in placental IL‐9 and IL‐35.

Conclusion

The immune profile of the placenta demonstrates a decrease in both regulatory immune cell types and cytokines late in gestation. Establishing the placental immune population dynamics over a healthy pregnancy will allow future investigation of placental immune cells during abnormal pregnancy.
Placenta immune infiltrates and perinatal outcomes
Authors: Ozen Maide , Novak Christopher , Burd Irina
Published: March 2018

Pregnancy is a state of immunotolerance and loss of this immunotolerance may lead to fetal rejection, pregnancy complications, and neonatal complications. Immunobiology of pregnancy is complex and involves unique immune cell populations specific to pregnancy, changes in mucosal immune cells and peripheral immune system, and reciprocal adaptations between the mother and the fetus. The mechanisms required for sustaining a healthy feto‐placental barrier and a healthy pregnancy such as activation of regulatory immune responses with a predominance of regulatory T cells lead to immune evasion and propagation of cancer. It is intriguing to note that the immune pathways which are effective in limiting or eliminating cancer form the very basis for loss of feto‐maternal tolerance. In this article, we aim to compare and contrast immunobiology of healthy and pathological pregnancies mirroring with cancer immunobiology with a focus on immune checkpoint receptors.
Anti‐viral therapy can be delayed or avoided in a significant proportion of HBeAg‐negative Caucasian patients in the Grey Zone
Authors: Bonacci M. , Lens S. , Mariño Z. , Londoño M.‐C. , Rodríguez‐Tajes S. , Mas A. , García‐López M. , Pérez‐del‐Pulgar S. , Sánchez‐Tapias J. M. , Forns X.
Published: March 2018

Background

Grey Zone (GZ) is an ill‐defined situation including patients falling between inactive carrier (IC) state and HBeAg‐negative chronic hepatitis B (HBeAg‐negative CHB).

Aims

To assess the long‐term outcomes of GZ patients compared to IC in the absence of treatment.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of 287 IC and GZ HBeAg‐negative patients. Patients were classified into 4 groups at baseline: HBV‐DNA <2000 IU/mL and ALT <40 U/L (IC), HBV‐DNA <2000 IU/mL and ALT 40‐80 U/L (GZ‐1), HBV‐DNA 2000‐20 000 IU/mL and ALT <40 U/L (GZ‐2) or ALT 40‐80 U/L (GZ‐3). Data were also analysed using AASLD ALT criteria.

Results

After a median follow‐up of 8.2 (5‐19) years, HBsAg loss occurred in about 15% ICs or GZ patients. Transition into IC state occurred in 40% of GZ patients. DNA fluctuations >2000 IU/mL correlated inversely with transition into IC and HBsAg loss. HBsAg levels were significantly lower in ICs than in GZ patients (338 IU/mL [20‐3269] vs 5763 IU/mL [2172‐17 754]; P < 0.05). Among the latter group, there was an increasing gradient of HBsAg levels from GZ‐1 to GZ‐3 patients (P < 0.05). HBeAg‐negative CHB occurred in only 18 (6.3%) GZ patients. No patient developed cirrhosis nor advanced fibrosis. ALT/HBV‐DNA fluctuations and HBeAg‐negative CHB development were more frequent in genotype B/C patients, whereas HBsAg loss occurred only in genotype A/D patients.

Conclusions

Most Caucasian GZ patients present excellent long‐term outcomes in the absence of treatment, with a high rate of HBsAg loss and low rate of progression to HBeAg‐negative CHB. HBV‐genotyping and HBsAg levels could help to predict outcomes and better classify GZ patients.
Systematic review with meta‐analysis: combination treatment of regimens based on pegylated interferon for chronic hepatitis B focusing on hepatitis B surface antigen clearance
Authors: Qiu K. , Liu B. , Li S.‐Y. , Li H. , Chen Z.‐W. , Luo A.‐R. , Peng M.‐L. , Ren H. , Hu P.
Published: March 2018

Background

The seroclearance of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) is considered to be associated with favourable clinical outcomes.

Aims

This meta‐analysis was performed to establish the proportion of HBsAg loss rates among CHB patients who received combination treatment based on pegylated interferon (PegIFN). Four combination strategies have been studied with the aim of improving HBsAg loss: “de novo,” “NA‐experienced,” “switch‐to” and “add‐on.” This meta‐analysis was performed to determine which, if any, of these combination strategies was more effective.

Methods

Medline, Web of Science and Embase databases were searched from inception to December 2017. The proportion of patients who achieved HBsAg loss after combination therapy was pooled using a random‐effects model.

Results

Twenty‐four studies fulfilled the meta‐analysis criteria. The overall pooled proportion suggested that the rate of HBsAg loss could be increased to 9% (95% CI: 7%‐12%) based on the combination treatment in CHB patients. Compared with “de novo” strategy (8%, 95% CI: 6%‐10%), the “nucleos(t)ide analogues‐experienced” (11%, 95% CI: 8%‐15%) was found to be more likely (P = 0.036) to achieve a response. Compared with the “add‐on” strategy (8%, 95% CI: 5%‐13%), the “switch‐to” (14%, 95% CI: 9%‐20%) was found to be more likely (P = 0.012) to achieve HBsAg loss.

Conclusion

The “nucleos(t)ide analogues‐experienced” strategy was more effective than the “De novo” strategy in achieving HBsAg loss for CHB patients. Combination treatment using regimens based on Peg‐IFN may be useful to help nucleos(t)ide analogues‐treated patients, who have experienced at least 48 weeks of nucleot(s)ide analogue, achieve HBsAg seroclearance.
Power and Sample Size Calculation Incorporating Misspecifications of the Variance Function in Comparative Clinical Trials with Over-Dispersed Count Data
Authors: Igeta Masataka , Takahashi Kunihiko , Matsui Shigeyuki
Published: March 2018

Over-dispersed count data are frequently observed in clinical trials where the primary endpoint is occurrence of clinical events. Sample sizes of comparative clinical trials with these data are typically calculated under negative binomial models or quasi–Poisson models with specified variance functions, or under the assumption that the specified “working” variance functions are correctly specified. In this article, we propose a sample size formula anticipating misspecifications of the working variance function. We derived a method based on the asymptotic distribution of a Wald test statistic with a sandwich-type robust variance estimator under quasi–Poisson models. Under misspecifications of the working variance function, the asymptotic variance of the estimator of the treatment effect is expressed as a form involving both true and working variance functions. Our sample size formula includes several existing formulas as special cases when the working variance function is correctly specified as the true variance function. We also consider a sensitivity analysis for possible misspecifications of the “true” variance function when estimating sample sizes using our formula. A simulation study demonstrated the adequacy of our formulas in finite sample size settings. An application to a clinical trial to evaluate the treatment effect on prevention of COPD exacerbation is provided.
Perception of Face Race by Infants: Five Developmental Changes
Authors: Quinn Paul C. , Lee Kang , Pascalis Olivier
Published: March 2018

Over the last 15 years, researchers have examined how infants respond to the social categories of faces. In the case of race, infants encounter more faces of their own race than faces of other races. This asymmetry in experience has been associated with five developmental changes in face processing during the first year of life. In this article, we describe these changes in recognition, spontaneous preference, visual scanning, category formation, and association with valence, and discuss their interrelationships. Certain individual changes correspond with one or another of the classic models of perceptual development (i.e., maintenance, attunement). But considered together, the changes suggest that a framework linking perceptual with social‐emotional processing may provide a broader way of thinking about the overall pattern of how infants develop differential responses to faces of their own race that they experience frequently versus faces of other races that they experience infrequently.
Labels or Concepts? The Development of Semantic Networks in Bilingual Two‐Year‐Olds
Authors: Jardak Amel , Byers‐Heinlein Krista
Published: March 2018

The adult lexicon links concepts and labels with related meanings (e.g., dog–cat). How do children's encounters with concepts versus labels contribute to semantic development? Three studies investigated semantic priming in 40 monolinguals and 32 bilinguals, who have similar experience with concepts but different experience with labels (i.e., monolinguals hear “dog,” bilinguals hear “dog” and “chien”). Similarities in performance across monolinguals and bilinguals at age 24 months, as well as across bilinguals’ two languages at age 30 months, support the position that encounters with concepts contribute more to early semantic development than encounters with labels. Findings also suggest that the effects of semantic priming are challenging to observe at 24 months but are strong in bilinguals by age 30 months.