bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel biomarkers of nasopharyngeal carcinoma metastasis risk identified by reverse phase protein array based tumor profiling with consideration of plasma Epstein–Barr virus DNA load
Authors: Xu Tao , Su Bojin , Huang Peiyu , Wei Weihong , Deng Yanming , Sehgal Vasudha , Wang Donghui , Jiang Jun , Zhang Guoyi , Li Anfei , Yang Huiling , Claret Francois X.
Published: November 2016

Purpose

In patients with Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) associated nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), intertumor heterogeneity causes interpatient heterogeneity in the risk of distant metastasis. We aimed to identify novel biomarkers of metastasis risk using reverse phase protein array (RPPA) profiling of NPC patients at risk for metastasis and considering plasma EBV DNA load.

Experimental design

A total of 98 patients with NPC with and without metastasis after treatment, matched with respect to clinical parameters, are enrolled. Total protein expression is measured by RPPA, and protein functions are analyzed by pathway bioinformatics.

Results

The RPPA analysis revealed a profile of 70 proteins that are differentially expressed in metastatic and nonmetastatic tumors. Plasma EBV DNA load after treatment correlated with protein expression level better than plasma EBV DNA load before treatment did. The biomarkers of NPC metastasis identified by proteomics regulate signaling pathways involved in cell cycle progression, apoptosis, and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition. The authors identified 26 biomarkers associated with 5‐year distant failure‐free survival in univariate analysis; five biomarkers remained significant in multivariate analysis.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

A comprehensive RPPA profiling study is warranted to identify novel metastasis‐related biomarkers and further examine the activation state of signaling proteins to improve estimation of metastasis risk for patients with EBV‐associated NPC.
Fabrication of InGaN/GaN MQW nano‐LEDs by hydrogen‐environment anisotropic thermal etching
Authors: Ogawa Kohei , Hachiya Ryo , Mizutani Tomoya , Ishijima Shun , Kikuchi Akihiko
Published: November 2016

III‐nitride semiconductor nanostructures are attractive materials for the realization of high‐performance and highly functional optoelectronic devices. In this study, we fabricated InGaN/GaN multiple quantum well (MQW) nanostructured light‐emitting diodes (nano‐LEDs) using hydrogen‐environment anisotropic thermal etching (HEATE). HEATE is a low‐damage anisotropic etching technique that is based on the thermal decomposition of (In)GaN under a low‐pressure hydrogen environment. The InGaN/GaN MQW nano‐LEDs showed good rectification characteristics and blue emission without any post treatment to remove all etching damage. The narrowest MQW lateral sizes of successfully fabricated nanowall and nanopillar LEDs were 87 and 70 nm, respectively. These LEDs are among the smallest InGaN/GaN‐based nano‐LEDs fabricated via a top–down process.

Electroluminescence images of InGaN/GaN nano‐LEDs operated at 3 V. (a) An a‐axis honeycomb nanowall, (b) an m‐axis nanowall array, (c) an a‐axis nanowall array, and (d) a nanopillar array.
Cross‐border mergers and acquisitions: The role of private equity firms
Authors: Humphery‐Jenner Mark , Sautner Zacharias , Suchard Jo‐Ann
Published: November 2016

Research summary: We show that private equity ownership (“PE backing”) of the acquirer is a signal of deal quality in cross‐border takeovers. As such, PE‐backed acquirers experience higher announcement returns in cross‐border takeovers, but only if targets are in poor information environments. We show that PE backing is a positive market signal because of PE firms' experience and networks that result from prior deals in target countries. We document that the market correctly anticipates that operating performance of PE‐backed acquirers increases as a result of cross‐border mergers and acquisitions (M&A).

Managerial summary: We study cross‐border acquisitions by acquirers that are partially owned by private equity firms (“PE backing”). Cross‐border acquisitions are challenging as acquirers often have little information about targets. We document that investors react positively to cross‐border deals of PE‐backed acquirers—their stock prices increase upon deal announcements. However, this is only the case if targets are in countries with poor information environments. This is because PE backing allows acquirers to access PE firms' deal experience and networks. This makes it easier to identify and evaluate good targets, making it more (less) likely that a deal eventually creates (destroys) value. Consistent with this, we find that earnings of PE‐backed acquirers increase after buying targets in poor information environments. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Enhancing Performances of Solution‐Processed Inverted Ternary Small‐Molecule Organic Solar Cells: Manipulating the Host‐Guest Donors and Acceptor Interaction
Authors: Tan Wan‐Yi , Gao Ke , Zhang Jian , Chen Ling‐Ling , Wu Si‐Ping , Jiang Xiao‐Fang , Peng Xiao‐Bin , Hu Qin , Liu Feng , Wu Hong‐Bin , Cao Yong , Zhu Xu‐Hui
Published: November 2016

The nanoscale morphology of the active layer is critical in determining the power conversion efficiency (PCE) and stability of a bulk hetero‐junction organic solar cell (OSC). In this communication, we present an exciting approach focusing on morphological control to improve the performances of solution‐processed inverted small‐molecule OSCs. A crystalline “guest” electron donor favorably interacting with the “host” donor (via exciplex formation) is introduced to achieve a beneficial morphology, which is solvent additive and post‐solvent vapor annealing free. Specifically DPP(TBFu)2 that could readily phase separate with the acceptor PC61BM under thermal annealing is chosen as the guest donor to enhance the crystallinity and domain purity of the host donor and hence suppress bimolecular recombination. The host‐guest donors exhibit a high miscibility. Upon incorporating 10–20% DPP(TBFu)2, the ternary solar cells provided an increase of PCE up to 7.1% with enhanced Jsc and fill factor FF, in contrast with 5.5% for the original DPPEZnP‐TEH:PC61BM binary cell, while Voc remained almost intact. At 50% loading, the phase separation is over enlarged, leading to performance deterioration. This work shall contribute to developing high‐performance printable small‐molecule OSCs by manipulating the complicated component interactions in the ternary blend.
Treatment of Severe Adult Traumatic Brain Injury Using Bone Marrow Mononuclear Cells
Authors: Cox Charles S. , Hetz Robert A. , Liao George P. , Aertker Benjamin M. , Ewing-Cobbs Linda , Juranek Jenifer , Savitz Sean I. , Jackson Margaret L. , Romanowska-Pawliczek Anna M. , Triolo Fabio , Dash Pramod K. , Pedroza Claudia , Lee Dean A. , Worth Laura , Aisiku Imoigele P. , Choi Huimahn A. , Holcomb John B. , Kitagawa Ryan S.
Published: November 2016

Preclinical studies using bone marrow derived cells to treat traumatic brain injury have demonstrated efficacy in terms of blood–brain barrier preservation, neurogenesis, and functional outcomes. Phase 1 clinical trials using bone marrow mononuclear cells infused intravenously in children with severe traumatic brain injury demonstrated safety and potentially a central nervous system structural preservation treatment effect. This study sought to confirm the safety, logistic feasibility, and potential treatment effect size of structural preservation/inflammatory biomarker mitigation in adults to guide Phase 2 clinical trial design. Adults with severe traumatic brain injury (Glasgow Coma Scale 5–8) and without signs of irreversible brain injury were evaluated for entry into the trial. A dose escalation format was performed in 25 patients: 5 controls, followed 5 patients in each dosing cohort (6, 9, 12 ×106 cells/kg body weight), then 5 more controls. Bone marrow harvest, cell processing to isolate the mononuclear fraction, and re-infusion occurred within 48 hours after injury. Patients were monitored for harvest-related hemodynamic changes, infusional toxicity, and adverse events. Outcome measures included magnetic resonance imaging-based measurements of supratentorial and corpus callosal volumes as well as diffusion tensor imaging-based measurements of fractional anisotropy and mean diffusivity of the corpus callosum and the corticospinal tract at the level of the brainstem at 1 month and 6 months postinjury. Functional and neurocognitive outcomes were measured and correlated with imaging data. Inflammatory cytokine arrays were measured in the plasma pretreatment, posttreatment, and at 1 and 6 month follow-up. There were no serious adverse events. There was a mild pulmonary toxicity of the highest dose that was not clinically significant. Despite the treatment group having greater injury severity, there was structural preservation of critical regions of interest that correlated with functional outcomes. Key inflammatory cytokines were downregulated. Treatment of severe, adult traumatic brain injury using an intravenously delivered autologous bone marrow mononuclear cell infusion is safe and logistically feasible. There appears to be a treatment signal as evidenced by central nervous system structural preservation, consistent with previous pediatric trial data. Inflammatory biomarkers are downregulated after cell infusion.

Video Highlight: https://youtu.be/UiCCPIe-IaQ Stem Cells  2017;35:1065–1079
Capturing Complexity in how Configurations of Firm Internal Orientations Impact Corporate Social Performance Outcomes: Breaking from the Dominant Logic of Symmetric-Variable to Asymmetric-Case-Based Theory and Testing
Authors: Isaksson Lars E. , Woodside Arch G.
Published: November 2016

This study exemplifies how an asymmetric and case based (configurational) research approach (using fuzzy state logic and complexity theory) is useful for conceptualization and explanation of complex topics and heterogeneous outcomes. The study here analyses the recipes (condition combinations) for Internal Orientation constructs (IO: strategic intent, CSP management, strategic orientation and industrial standards) among multi-national companies (MNCs) indicating “high” levels of corporate social performance (CSP) and the “United Nations Principles for Responsible Investment” (UNPRI) ESG factor framework (Environment, Social-human rights, and Governance) – separately and as a whole. The study applies a mixed methods research design and includes comparing ESG with financial performance across a “Top-100 Sustainable Companies Index” (n = 82 of MNCs trading on the Swedish stock exchange). The study's findings support the core tenets of complexity theory; all four IO constructs affect a high E or S or G outcome but not all three outcomes in combination.
Efectos estacionales en los mercados de capitales de la Alianza del Pacífico
Authors: Arbeláez García David , Rosso John
Published: November 2016

Este documento tiene por objetivo probar la existencia de los efectos estacionales del día de la semana, mes del año, cambio de mes, fin de diciembre y superstición en los mercados de capitales de la Alianza del Pacífico durante el período 2002-2014. Para esto se emplea una metodología econométrica de estadísticos tradicionales y no paramétricos. Se pudo concluir que existe un efecto día de la semana para los mercados chileno, colombiano y peruano, el cual se comporta, en general, como lo sugiere la literatura, y un efecto cambio de mes para los mercados mexicano y peruano, que se comporta según lo sugerido por la literatura. No se detectó ningún efecto mes del año, fin de diciembre o superstición.
The impact of round window vs cochleostomy surgical approaches on interscalar excursions in the cochlea: Preliminary results from a flat‐panel computed tomography study
Authors: Jiam Nicole T. , Limb Charles J.
Published: November 2016

Objective

To evaluate incidence of interscalar excursions between round window (RW) and cochleostomy approaches for cochlear implant (CI) insertion.

Methods

This was a retrospective case‐comparison. Flat‐panel CT (FPCT) scans for 8 CI users with Med‐El standard length electrode arrays were collected. Surgical technique was identified by a combination of operative notes and FPCT imaging. Four cochleae underwent round window insertion and 4 cochleae underwent cochleostomy approaches anterior and inferior to the round window.

Results

In our pilot study, cochleostomy approaches were associated with a higher likelihood of interscalar excursion. Within the cochleostomy group, we found 29% of electrode contacts (14 of 48 electrodes) to be outside the scala tympani. On the other hand, 8.5% of the electrode contacts (4 of 47 electrodes) in the round window insertion group were extra‐scalar to the scala tympani. These displacements occurred at a mean angle of occurrence of 364° ± 133°, near the apex of the cochlea. Round window electrode displacements tend to localize at angle of occurrences of 400° or greater. Cochleostomy electrodes occurred at an angle of occurrence of 19°–490°.

Conclusions

Currently, the optimal surgical approach for standard CI electrode insertion is highly debated, to a certain extent due to a lack of post‐operative assessment of intracochlear electrode contact. Based on our preliminary findings, cochleostomy approach is associated with an increased likelihood of interscalar excursions, and these findings should be further evaluated with future prospective studies.
Temporal and spectral contributions to musical instrument identification and discrimination among cochlear implant users
Authors: Prentiss Sandra M. , Friedland David R. , Fullmer Tanner , Crane Alison , Stoddard Timothy , Runge Christina L.
Published: November 2016

Objective

To investigate the contributions of envelope and fine‐structure to the perception of timbre by cochlear implant (CI) users as compared to normal hearing (NH) listeners.

Methods

This was a prospective cohort comparison study. Normal hearing and cochlear implant patients were tested. Three experiments were performed in sound field using musical notes altered to affect the characteristic pitch of an instrument and the acoustic envelope. Experiment 1 assessed the ability to identify the instrument playing each note, while experiments 2 and 3 assessed the ability to discriminate the different stimuli.

Results

Normal hearing subjects performed better than CI subjects in all instrument identification tasks, reaching statistical significance for 4 of 5 stimulus conditions. Within the CI population, acoustic envelope modifications did not significantly affect instrument identification or discrimination. With envelope and pitch cues removed, fine structure discrimination performance was similar between normal hearing and CI users for the majority of conditions, but some specific instrument comparisons were significantly more challenging for CI users.

Conclusions

Cochlear implant users perform significantly worse than normal hearing listeners on tasks of instrument identification. However, cochlear implant listeners can discriminate differences in envelope and some fine structure components of musical instrument sounds as well as normal hearing listeners. The results indicated that certain fine structure cues are important for cochlear implant users to make discrimination judgments, and therefore may affect interpretation toward associating with a specific instrument for identification.
The West Africa Disaster Preparedness Initiative: Strengthening National Capacities for All-Hazards Disaster Preparedness
Authors: Morton Hamer Melinda J. , Reed Paul L. , Greulich Jane D. , Kelen Gabor D. , Bradstreet Nicole A. , Beadling Charles W.
Published: November 2016

Objective

The Ebola outbreak demonstrated the need for improved disaster response throughout West Africa. The West Africa Disaster Preparedness Initiative was a training and assessment effort led by US Africa Command and partners to strengthen capacities among 12 West African partner nations (PNs).

Methods

Series of 3-week training sessions with representatives from each PN were held from 13 July through 20 November 2015 at the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre in Accra, Ghana. A team conducted Disaster Management Capabilities Assessments (DMCAs) for each PN, including a review of key data, a survey for leaders, and in-person interviews of key informants.

Results

All 12 PNs generated a national Ebola Preparedness and Response Plan and Emergency Operations Center standard operating procedures. DMCA metrics were generated for each PN. Top performers included Ghana, with a plan rated good/excellent, and Benin and Burkina Faso, which both achieved a satisfactory rating for their plans. More than 800 people from 12 nations were trained.

Conclusion

PNs have improved disaster management capabilities and awareness of their strengths and weaknesses. The Economic Community of West African States has increased its lead role in this and future planned initiatives. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2017;11:431–438)
Acceptability and Necessity of Training for Optimal Personal Protective Equipment Use
Authors: Doll Michelle , Feldman Moshe , Hartigan Sarah , Sanogo Kakotan , Stevens Michael , McReynolds Myriah , Masroor Nadia , Cooper Kaila , Bearman Gonzalo
Published: November 2016

Healthcare workers routinely self-contaminate even when using personal protective equipment. Observations of donning/ doffing practices on inpatient units along with surveys were used to assess the need for a personal protective equipment training program. In contrast to low perceived risk, observed doffing behaviors demonstrate significant personal protective equipment technique deficits.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2017;38:226–229
Impact and Limitations of the 2015 National Health and Safety Network Case Definition on Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infection Rates
Authors: Bardossy Ana Cecilia , Jayaprakash Rachna , Alangaden Anjali C. , Starr Patricia , Abreu-Lanfranco Odaliz , Reyes Katherine , Zervos Marcus J. , Alangaden George J.
Published: November 2016

Application of the new 2015 NHSN definition of catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) in intensive care units reduced CAUTI rates by ~50%, primarily due to exclusion of candiduria. This significant reduction in CAUTI rates resulting from the changes in the definition must be considered when evaluating effectiveness of CAUTI prevention programs.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol2017;38:239–241
The influence of feeding a high calcium, algae supplement on gastric ulceration in adult horses
Authors: Moir T. , O'Brien J. , Hill S. R. , Waldron L. A
Published: November 2016

Calcium is considered important in buffering excess stomach acid in mammals, including horses. Control of stomach acid is important in preventing the development of ulcers within the stomach lining, which, in horses, are considered to be caused by acid splashing. Algae supplements contain various minerals which are in natural form, as seen in all plant and feedstuffs. The current trial was conducted to examine if a high calcium algae supplement had any impact on gastric ulceration in horses, which may be due to buffering stomach acid, reducing the pH in a gradual manner, without resorting to medication. Ten horses, of either thoroughbred, standardbred or sport horse breed, were selected on the basis of the presence of ulcers in their stomach, as ascertained by endoscopy. The average ulceration score before algae supplementation was 2.2 ± 0.75 according to the EGUC scoring system. The horses were then maintained on their normal diet (unchanged from the initial ulcer scoring) by the owner with the addition of 40 g per day of the high calcium, algae based Maxia Complete®(Seahorse Supplements Ltd, Christchurch, NZ) for thirty days (T30). All horses were then re endoscoped to assess any change in ulceration score. All horses showed a significant improvement in ulcer score, with seven having a score of zero (fully healed, no evidence of further ulceration) and two with a score of one (some residual inflammation or keratinosis in areas of healed ulcers). This resulted in a mean score of 0.3 ± 0.48 (P < 0.0001: T0 versus T30) at the end of the study. This trial demonstrated that feeding an organic form of high calcium from algae reduced ulceration in horses.
On the behaviour of impinging zero-net-mass-flux jets
Authors: Greco Carlo Salvatore , Cardone Gennaro , Soria Julio
Published: November 2016

This paper reports on an experimental study of the influence of the Strouhal number (0.011, 0.022 and 0.044) and orifice-to-plate distances (2, 4 and 6 orifice diameters) on the flow field of an impinging zero-net-mass-flux jet at a Reynolds number equal to 35 000. These jets are generated by a reciprocating piston that oscillates in a cavity behind a circular orifice. Instantaneous two-dimensional in-plane velocity fields are measured in a plane containing the orifice axis using multigrid/multipass cross-correlation digital particle image velocimetry. These measurements have been used to investigate the mean flow quantities and turbulent statistics of the impinging zero-net-mass-flux jets. In addition, the vortex ring behaviour is analysed via its trajectory and azimuthal vorticity as well as the saddle point excursion, the flow rate and entrainment. The behaviour of all these quantities depends on the Strouhal number and the orifice-to-plate distance because the former governs the presence and the relative importance of the vortex ring and the trailing jet on the flow field and the latter delimits the downstream evolution of these structures.
Energy efficiency and performance limitations of linear adaptive control for transition delay
Authors: Fabbiane Nicolò , Bagheri Shervin , Henningson Dan S.
Published: November 2016

A reactive control technique with localised actuators and sensors is used to delay the transition to turbulence in a flat-plate boundary-layer flow. Through extensive direct numerical simulations, it is shown that an adaptive technique, which computes the control law on-line, is able to significantly reduce skin-friction drag in the presence of random three-dimensional perturbation fields with linear and weakly nonlinear behaviour. An energy budget analysis is performed in order to assess the net energy saving capabilities of the linear control approach. When considering a model of the dielectric-barrier-discharge (DBD) plasma actuator, the energy spent to create appropriate actuation force inside the boundary layer is of the same order as the energy gained from reducing skin-friction drag. With a model of an ideal actuator a net energy gain of three orders of magnitude can be achieved by efficiently damping small-amplitude disturbances upstream. The energy analysis in this study thus provides an upper limit for what we can expect in terms of drag-reduction efficiency for linear control of transition as a means for drag reduction.
Comparative study on social-economic status, trauma and mental health disorders among older and younger refugees in Australia
Authors: Li Wendy Wen
Published: November 2016

This article investigated socio-economic status (SES), traumatic experience and mental health disorders among 103 refugees (52 males and 51 females) living in tropical and subtropical Australia. Specific focus was placed on comparing older refugees’ socio-economic status, traumatic experience and mental health disorders to younger refugees. The results showed that older refugees had lower levels of education, higher unemployment rates and poorer English skills and abilities compared to younger refugees. A greater percentage of older refugees perceived that they had received sufficient support from the broader community over younger refugees. Results also revealed that compared to younger participants, older participants aged over 50 years had significantly higher mean scores in trauma events (trauma exposure, loss event, loss of intrapersonal integrity, loss distress, loss of symbolic self, loss of home and interpersonal loss) and anxiety.
Phylogenetic variation in hind-limb bone scaling of flightless theropods
Authors: Chan Nicholas R.
Published: November 2016

The robusticity of the weight-bearing limbs of large terrestrial animals is expected to increase at a more rapid rate than in their smaller relatives. This scaling has been hypothesized to allow large species to maintain stresses in the limb bones that are similar to those seen in smaller ones. Curvilinear scaling has previously been found in mammals and nonavian theropods but has not been demonstrated in birds. In this study, polynomial regressions of leg-bone length and circumference in terrestrial flightless birds were carried out to test for a relationship similar to that seen in nonavian theropods. Flightless birds exhibit curvilinear scaling, with the femora of large taxa becoming thicker relative to length at a greater rate than in smaller taxa. Evidence was found for nonlinear scaling in the leg bones of nonavian theropods. However, unlike in avians, there is also phylogenetic variation between taxonomic groups, with tyrannosaur leg bones in particular scaling differently than other groups. Phylogenetically corrected quadratic regressions and separate analyses of taxonomic groupings found little phylogenetic variation in flightless birds. It is suggested here that the nonlinear scaling seen in avian femora is due to the need to maintain the position of the knee under a more anterior center of mass, thereby restricting femoral length. The femur of nonavian theropods is not so constrained, with greater variability of the linear scaling relationships between clades. Phylogenetic variation in limb-bone scaling may broaden the errors for mass-predictive scaling equations based on limb-bone measurements of nonavian theropods.
A Bayesian quantile binary regression approach to estimate payments for environmental services
Authors: Lavín Felipe Vásquez , Flores Ricardo , Ibarnegaray Verónica
Published: November 2016

Stated preference approaches, such as contingent valuation, focus mainly on the estimation of the mean or median willingness to pay (WTP) for an environmental good. Nevertheless, these two welfare measures may not be appropriate when there are social and political concerns associated with implementing a payment for environmental services (PES) scheme. In this paper the authors used a Bayesian estimation approach to estimate a quantile binary regression and the WTP distribution in the context of a contingent valuation PES application. Our results show that the use of other quantiles framed in the supermajority concept provides a reasonable interpretation of the technical nonmarket valuation studies in the PES area. We found that the values of the mean WTP are 10–37 times higher than the value that would support a supermajority of 70 per cent of the population.
Association between junk food consumption and fast-food outlet access near school among Quebec secondary-school children: findings from the Quebec Health Survey of High School Students (QHSHSS) 2010–11
Authors: Cutumisu Nicoleta , Traoré Issouf , Paquette Marie-Claude , Cazale Linda , Camirand Hélène , Lalonde Benoit , Robitaille Eric
Published: November 2016

Objective

We investigated the association between junk food consumption at lunchtime (JCL) and fast-food outlet access near school among secondary-school children in Quebec.

Design

A geographic information system database was used to characterize the food environment around a sub-sample of 374 public schools in which 26 655 students were enrolled. The outcome variable was JCL during the previous week, dichotomized into low JCL (none or once)v. high JCL (twice or more). Access to fast-food outlets near school was assessed using an existing database of fast-food outlets in Quebec. Covariates included student (age, sex and self-rated perceived health), family (familial status and parental education) and school (urban/rural status and deprivation) variables. Hierarchical logistic regression models were employed for analyses using PROC GLIMMIX of SAS version 9.3.

Setting

Province of Quebec, Canada.

Subjects

We used data from the Quebec Health Survey of High School Students (QHSHSS) 2010–11, a survey of secondary-school Quebec students.

Results

Exposure to two or more fast-food outlets within a radius of 750 m around schools was associated with a higher likelihood of excess JCL (OR=1·50; 95 % CI 1·28, 1·75), controlling for the characteristics of the students, their families and their schools.

Conclusions

The food environment surrounding schools can constitute a target for interventions to improve food choices among secondary-school children living in the province of Quebec. Transforming environments around schools to promote healthy eating includes modifying zoning regulations that restrict access to fast-food outlets around schools.
Policies for healthy and sustainable edible oil consumption: a stakeholder analysis for Thailand
Authors: Shankar Bhavani , Thaiprasert Nalitra , Gheewala Shabbir , Smith Richard
Published: November 2016

Objective

Palm oil is a cheap and versatile edible oil in widespread use as a food ingredient that has been linked to negative health and environmental outcomes. The current study aimed to understand the prospects for future health-focused policy development to limit food use of palm oil and promote a greater diversity of oils in Thailand’s food system.

Design

Eighteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with a range of stakeholders. The interviews probed views on the economic, health and environmental dimensions of the issue, the prospects for health-focused policy development and the policy development process. Transcripts were analysed using a health policy analytical framework.

Setting

Thailand.

Subjects

Stakeholders from a range of ministries, regulatory agencies, the private sector, non-governmental organizations and academia.

Results

There are several impediments to the emergence of strong regulation, including the primacy of economic considerations in setting policy, doubt and misperception about health implications and a complex regulatory environment with little space for health-related considerations. At the same time, some sections of the food industry producing food for domestic consumption are substituting palm with other oils on the basis of consumer health perceptions.

Conclusions

Strong regulation to curb the growth of palm oil is unlikely to emerge soon. However, a long-term strategy can be envisaged that relies on greater policy support for other indigenous oils, strategic rebalancing towards the use of palm oil for biofuels and oleochemicals, and harnessing Thailand’s food technology capabilities to promote substitution in food production in favour of oils with healthier fatty acid composition.
The Oldest Old and the Risk of Social Exclusion
Authors: Key Wesley , Culliney Martin
Published: November 2016

This article examines whether people aged eighty-five-and-over, referred to throughout as ‘The Oldest Old’, are more likely to suffer from social exclusion than people aged sixty-five to eighty-four. Social Exclusion is defined according to the four dimensions identified in the 1999 Poverty and Social Exclusion Survey. Using data from Understanding Society, the analysis finds that the Oldest Old have a higher likelihood of experiencing social exclusion than people aged sixty-five to eighty-four. These findings illustrate the risks facing the Oldest Old, and highlight the policy challenges presented by ageing western populations.
Fragmentary Theory of Secularization and Religionization — Changes in the Family Structure as a Case Study
Authors: Fisher Netanel
Published: November 2016

The central claim of this article is that the multi-dimensional changes in the modern family structure may be explained as a manifestation of the simultaneous processes of secularization and religionization. On the one hand, the rising acceptance of secular alternatives to the traditional family structure indicates that modernization processes weaken religious behavior and authority, as the classical secularization thesis has claimed. On the other hand, ongoing loyalty to the religious family patterns, and even their relative intensification, reflect the opposite trend. Serving as a case study, the changes in the Israeli religious family structure — reflected by civil marriage, cohabitation, and out-of-wedlock children — clearly illustrate how modernization generates horizontal and vertical fragmental processes in which religion and secularism supplement as well as compete with each other, creating an increasingly divided society in which religiosity and secularism flourish side by side among various groups and within distinct realms.
Validation of the Spanish Version of the School Engagement Measure (SEM)
Authors: Ramos-Díaz Estibaliz , Rodríguez-Fernández Arantzazu , Revuelta Lorena
Published: November 2016

The scientific study of school engagement has recently been the subject of considerable interest in the field of educational psychology, and significant advances have been made in our knowledge of this construct. For instance, there is currently consensus in the scientific community that it is multifaceted, and has three dimensions: behavioral engagement, emotional engagement, and cognitive engagement. However, more advanced statistical analyses are needed to validate Spanish-language measures of school engagement, which this study proposes to do. The sample was comprised of 1,250 adolescents from Basque Country (49% boys, 51% girls) aged 12 to 15 years old (M = 13.72, SD = 1.09). The results of confirmatory factor analysis on the School Engagement Measure (Fredricks, Blumenfeld, Friedel, & Paris, 2005) supported a three-dimensional structure of school engagement (χ2(100) = 676.93, p < .001; GFI = .931; CFI = .906; IFI = .907; SRMR = .058; RMSEA = .068). Reliability indexes were satisfactory, ranging from .83 to .94. Adequate evidence of concurrent validity was found for the variable perceived school performance (p < .01). The results are discussed from an educational perspective, and with an eye to future research.
«Mehr Angst in Mathematik als in Deutsch?» – Leistungsängstlichkeit inverschiedenen Schulfächern und Prüfungssituationsklassen
Authors: Sparfeldt Jörn R. , Schneider Rebecca , Rost Detlef H.
Published: November 2016

Zusammenfassung. Art und Ausmaß von Leistungsängstlichkeit variieren zwischen verschiedenen Prüfungssituationen und Schulfächern. Bei N = 682 Gymnasiasten der Klassenstufen 9 und 10 wurden die beiden Leistungsängstlichkeitsfacetten «Aufgeregtheit» und «Besorgtheit» erfasst – einerseits auf die Fächer «Deutsch» und «Mathematik» sowie andererseits auf die Prüfungssituationsmodi «schriftliche» und «mündliche» sowie (nicht näher spezifizierte) «allgemeine» Prüfungssituationen bezogen. Bezogen auf allgemeine Prüfungssituationen zeigten sich in Mathematik höhere Aufgeregtheits- und Besorgtheitswerte als in Deutsch. Bei simultaner Berücksichtigung der Schulfächer und Prüfungssituationsmodi resultierten differenziertere Befunde: u.a. geringere Aufgeregtheit in schriftlichen Deutschprüfungssituationen als in mündlichen Deutsch- sowie mündlichen und schriftlichen Mathematikprüfungssituationen höhere Besorgtheit in Mathematik und Deutsch für schriftliche als für mündliche Prüfungssituationen. Die psychologische und pädagogische Relevanz der differenziellen Ergebnisse wird diskutiert.
Negative Veränderungen von Zielorientierungen über Schülergenerationen hinweg: Ein10-Jahresvergleich der SELLMO
Authors: Spinath Birgit , Kriegbaum Katharina , Stiensmeier-Pelster Joachim , Schöne Claudia , Dickhäuser Oliver
Published: November 2016

Zusammenfassung. Es gibt Belege dafür, dass Lehrerinnen und Lehrer über Schülergenerationen hinweg ein Absinken der Motivation wahrnehmen ( Cocodia et al., 2003 ; Howard, 2001 ). In der vorliegenden Untersuchung überprüfen wir anhand zweier Eichstichproben, die im Abstand von 10 Jahren (2002 N = 3326 und 2012 N = 3057) zur Normierung der Skalen zur Erfassung der Lern- und Leistungsmotivation (SELLMO; Spinath, Stiensmeier-Pelster, Schöne & Dickhäuser, 2002 , 2012) rekrutiert wurden, ob diese Wahrnehmung zutreffend ist. Entsprechend den Erwartungen zeigten sich für drei der vier Skalen negative Veränderungen der schulbezogenen Motivation. Im Jahr 2012 zeigten sich im Vergleich zu 2002 niedrigere Lernziele, höhere Vermeidungs-Leistungsziele sowie eine höhere Arbeitsvermeidung. Die Effekte sind in ihrer Stärke mit dem Flynn-Effekt vergleichbar. Implikationen der Befunde für weitere Forschung und die Praxis werden diskutiert.
Erfassung von sozialer Partizipation – Übereinstimmung zwischen Selbst- und Fremdsicht von Schülern mitundohne sonderpädagogischen Förderbedarf
Authors: Schwab Susanne
Published: November 2016

Zusammenfassung. Im Rahmen der vorliegenden Studie wurde untersucht, ob Schüler mit sonderpädagogischem Förderbedarf (SPF) im Vergleich zu Schülern ohne SPF weniger Interaktionen und Freundschaften mit ihren Peers haben. Zudem stand die Übereinstimmung zwischen der Selbst- und Fremdeinschätzung der sozialen Partizipation im Fokus. Als Untersuchungsgrundlage wurden die Daten von 616 Schülern der 4. und 7. Schulstufe analysiert, darunter auch jene von 129 Schülern mit SPF. Die Interaktionen wurden, im Hinblick auf die Häufigkeit von Pausenkontakten mit allen Peers, anhand eines soziometrischen Ratings operationalisiert. Für die Operationalisierung der Freundschaft wurden soziometrische Nennungen ausgewertet. Die Ergebnisse zeigten erwartungsgemäß, dass Schüler mit SPF in beiden Bereichen der sozialen Partizipation geringere Werte erzielten. Dies gilt sowohl für die Selbst- als auch für die Peerratings der Interaktionen und die Anzahl der Freundschaften. Darüber hinaus war die Übereinstimmung zwischen Selbst- und Fremdeinschätzung zur sozialen Partizipation bei Schülern mit SPF geringer als bei den Peers ohne SPF.
When Might the Campi Flegrei Caldera Erupt Again?
Authors: Branscombe Alexandra
Published: November 2016

The clock may be ticking for Italy's Campi Flegrei caldera, a region with a pattern of numerous and sometimes large explosive eruptions. The next explosion could be less than 100 years away.
SUMO-specific protease 1 protects neurons from apoptotic death during transient brain ischemia/reperfusion
Authors: Zhang Huijun , Wang Yan , Zhu Aoxue , Huang Dehua , Deng Shining , Cheng Jinke , Zhu Michael X , Li Yong
Published: November 2016

SUMO-specific protease 1 (SENP1) deconjugates SUMO from modified proteins. Although post-ischemic activation of SUMO conjugation was suggested to be neuroprotective against ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, the function of SENP1 in this process remained unclear. Here we show that transient middle cerebral artery occlusion in mice followed by 6, 12 and 24 h reperfusion significantly enhanced SENP1 levels in the affected brain area, independent of transcription. Consistent with the increase in SENP1, the levels of SUMO1-conjugated proteins were decreased by I/R in cortical neurons of control littermate mice, but unchanged in that of animals with conditional ablation of SENP1 gene from adult principal neurons, the SENP1flox/flox:CamKIIα-Cre (SENP1 cKO) mice. The SENP1 cKO mice exhibited a significant increase in infarct volume in the cerebral cortex and more severe motor impairment in response to I/R as compared with the control littermates. Cortical neurons from I/R-injured SENP1 cKO mice became more apoptotic than that from control littermates, as indicated by both TUNEL staining and caspase-3 activation. Overexpression of SENP1 in somatosensory cortices of adult wild-type (WT) mice suppressed I/R-induced neuronal apoptosis. We conclude that SENP1 plays a neuroprotective role in I/R injury by inhibiting apoptosis through decreasing SUMO1 conjugation. These findings reveal a novel mechanism of neuroprotection by protein desumoylation, which may help develop new therapies for mitigating brain injury associated with ischemic stroke.
Metadherin facilitates podocyte apoptosis in diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Liu Wen-Ting , Peng Fen-Fen , Li Hong-Yu , Chen Xiao-Wen , Gong Wang-Qiu , Chen Wen-Jing , Chen Yi-Hua , Li Pei-Lin , Li Shu-Ting , Xu Zhao-Zhong , Long Hai-Bo
Published: November 2016

Apoptosis, one of the major causes of podocyte loss, has been reported to have a vital role in diabetic nephropathy (DN) pathogenesis, and understanding the mechanisms underlying the regulation of podocyte apoptosis is crucial. Metadherin (MTDH) is an important oncogene, which is overexpressed in most cancers and responsible for apoptosis, metastasis, and poor patient survival. Here we show that the expression levels of Mtdh and phosphorylated p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) are significantly increased, whereas those of the microRNA-30 family members (miR-30s) are considerably reduced in the glomeruli of DN rat model and in high glucose (HG)-induced conditionally immortalized mouse podocytes (MPC5). These levels are positively correlated with podocyte apoptosis rate. The inhibition of Mtdh expression, using small interfering RNA, but not Mtdh overexpression, was shown to inhibit HG-induced MPC5 apoptosis and p38 MAPK pathway, and Bax and cleaved caspase 3 expression. This was shown to be similar to the effects of p38 MAPK inhibitor (SB203580). Furthermore, luciferase assay results demonstrated that Mtdh represents the target of miR-30s. Transient transfection experiments, using miR-30 microRNA (miRNA) inhibitors, led to the increase in Mtdh expression and induced the apoptosis of MPC5, whereas the treatment with miR-30 miRNA mimics led to the reduction in Mtdh expression and apoptosis of HG-induced MPC5 cells in comparison with their respective controls. Our results demonstrate that Mtdh is a potent modulator of podocyte apoptosis, and that it represents the target of miR-30 miRNAs, facilitating podocyte apoptosis through the activation of HG-induced p38 MAPK-dependent pathway.
Emerging roles of extracellular vesicles in neurodegenerative disorders: focus on HIV-associated neurological complications
Authors: Hu Guoku , Yang Lu , Cai Yu , Niu Fang , Mezzacappa Frank , Callen Shannon , Fox Howard S , Buch Shilpa
Published: November 2016

Exosomes are membrane-enriched extracellular vesicles with a proposed diameter in the range of 30–100 nm. They are released during both normal homeostasis as well as under pathological conditions by most cell types. In recent years, there has been robust interest in the study of these vesicles as conduits for the delivery of information between cells in both analogous as well as disparate tissues. Their ability to transport specialized cargo including signaling mediators, proteins, messenger RNA and miRNAs characterizes these vesicles as primary facilitators of cell-to-cell communication and regulation. Exosomes have also been demonstrated to have important roles in the field of cancer biology and metastasis. More recently, their role in several neurodegenerative disorders has been gaining increased momentum as these particles have been shown to promote the spread of toxic factors such as amyloid beta and prions, adding further validity to their role as important regulators of disease pathogenesis. This review briefly summarizes current findings and thoughts on exosome biology in the context of neurodegenerative disorders and the manipulation of these particles for the development of potential therapeutic strategies.
GRK6 regulates ROS response and maintains hematopoietic stem cell self-renewal
Authors: Le Qiumin , Yao Wenqing , Chen Yuejun , Yan Biao , Liu Cao , Yuan Man , Zhou Yuqing , Ma Lan
Published: November 2016

G protein-coupled receptor kinases (GRKs) are critically involved in immune response through regulation of cytokine receptors in mature leukocytes, but their role in hematopoiesis is largely unknown. Here, we demonstrate that GRK6 knockout (GRK6−/−) mice exhibit lymphocytopenia, loss of the hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) and multiple progenitor populations. GRK6 deficiency leads to compromised lymphoid differentiation, largely owing to the impairment of HSC self-renewal. Transcriptome and proteomic analysis suggest that GRK6 is involved in reactive oxygen species signaling. GRK6 could interact with DNA-PKcs (DNA-dependent protein kinase, catalytic subunit) and regulate its phosphorylation. Moreover, reactive oxygen species scavenger α-lipoic acid administration could partially rescue the loss of HSC in GRK6−/− mice. Our work demonstrates the importance of GRK6 in regulation of HSC self-renewal and reveals its potential role in participation of stress response.
The non-canonical Wnt receptor Ryk regulates hematopoietic stem cell repopulation in part by controlling proliferation and apoptosis
Authors: Famili Farbod , Perez Laura Garcia , Naber Brigitta AE , Noordermeer Jasprina N , Fradkin Lee G , Staal Frank JT
Published: November 2016

The development of blood and immune cells requires strict control by various signaling pathways in order to regulate self-renewal, differentiation and apoptosis in stem and progenitor cells. Recent evidence indicates critical roles for the canonical and non-canonical Wnt pathways in hematopoiesis. The non-canonical Wnt pathway is important for establishment of cell polarity and cell migration and regulates apoptosis in the thymus. We here investigate the role of the non-canonical Wnt receptor Ryk in hematopoiesis and lymphoid development. We show that there are dynamic changes in Ryk expression during development and in different hematopoietic tissues. Functionally, Ryk regulates NK cell development in a temporal fashion. Moreover, Ryk-deficient mice show diminished, but not absent self-renewal of hematopoietic stem cells (HSC), via effects on mildly increased proliferation and apoptosis. Thus, Ryk deficiency in HSCs from fetal liver reduces their quiescence, leading to proliferation-induced apoptosis and decreased self-renewal.
Neutral sphingomyelinase (SMPD3) deficiency disrupts the Golgi secretory pathway and causes growth inhibition
Authors: Stoffel Wilhelm , Hammels Ina , Jenke Bitta , Binczek Erika , Schmidt‐Soltau Inga , Brodesser Susanne , Schauss Astrid , Etich Julia , Heilig Juliane , Zaucke Frank
Published: November 2016

Systemic loss of neutral sphingomyelinase (SMPD3) in mice leads to a novel form of systemic, juvenile hypoplasia (dwarfism). SMPD3 deficiency in mainly two growth regulating cell types contributes to the phenotype, in chondrocytes of skeletal growth zones to skeletal malformation and chondrodysplasia, and in hypothalamic neurosecretory neurons to systemic hypothalamus–pituitary–somatotropic hypoplasia. The unbiased smpd3−/− mouse mutant and derived smpd3−/− primary chondrocytes were instrumental in defining the enigmatic role underlying the systemic and cell autonomous role of SMPD3 in the Golgi compartment. Here we describe the unprecedented role of SMPD3. SMPD3 deficiency disrupts homeostasis of sphingomyelin (SM), ceramide (Cer) and diacylglycerol (DAG) in the Golgi SMPD3-SMS1 (SM-synthase1) cycle. Cer and DAG, two fusogenic intermediates, modify the membrane lipid bilayer for the initiation of vesicle formation and transport. Dysproteostasis, unfolded protein response, endoplasmic reticulum stress and apoptosis perturb the Golgi secretory pathway in the smpd3−/− mouse. Secretion of extracellular matrix proteins is arrested in chondrocytes and causes skeletal malformation and chondrodysplasia. Similarly, retarded secretion of proteo-hormones in hypothalamic neurosecretory neurons leads to hypothalamus induced combined pituitary hormone deficiency. SMPD3 in the regulation of the protein vesicular secretory pathway may become a diagnostic target in the etiology of unknown forms of juvenile growth and developmental inhibition.