bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does it really pay to be good, everywhere? A first step to understand the corporate social and financial performance link in Latin American controversial industries
Authors: Rodrigo Pablo , Duran Ignacio J. , Arenas Daniel
Published: May 2016

Most research studying the corporate social performance (CSP)–corporate financial performance (CFP) link has utilized developed country samples. Also, this literature has generally focused on a wide variety of industries, ignoring the fact that certain sectors – such as controversial industries – have graver social and environmental issues. Hence, a gap exists in this tradition when it comes to emerging markets and controversial industries. This paper attempts to fill this void by providing preliminary evidence and insight on the matter. Based on an exploration in six Latin American countries and five controversial industries, we find a negative bidirectional association (or a non‐significant one at best) between CSP and CFP. These results tend to contradict the mainstream conclusion of a positive bidirectional link, suggesting that institutional and market‐level forces play a major role in shaping this relationship.
Convex Biclustering
Authors: Chi Eric C. , Allen Genevera I. , Baraniuk Richard G.
Published: May 2016

In the biclustering problem, we seek to simultaneously group observations and features. While biclustering has applications in a wide array of domains, ranging from text mining to collaborative filtering, the problem of identifying structure in high-dimensional genomic data motivates this work. In this context, biclustering enables us to identify subsets of genes that are co-expressed only within a subset of experimental conditions. We present a convex formulation of the biclustering problem that possesses a unique global minimizer and an iterative algorithm, COBRA, that is guaranteed to identify it. Our approach generates an entire solution path of possible biclusters as a single tuning parameter is varied. We also show how to reduce the problem of selecting this tuning parameter to solving a trivial modification of the convex biclustering problem. The key contributions of our work are its simplicity, interpretability, and algorithmic guarantees—features that arguably are lacking in the current alternative algorithms. We demonstrate the advantages of our approach, which includes stably and reproducibly identifying biclusterings, on simulated and real microarray data.
Nitric oxide generation by the organic nitrate NDBP attenuates oxidative stress and angiotensin II‐mediated hypertension
Authors: Porpino Suênia K P , Zollbrecht Christa , Peleli Maria , Montenegro Marcelo F , Brandão Maria C R , Athayde‐Filho Petrônio F , França‐Silva Maria S , Larsson Erik , Lundberg Jon O , Weitzberg Eddie , Persson Erik G , Braga Valdir A , Carlström Mattias
Published: May 2016

Background and Purpose

NO deficiency and oxidative stress are crucially involved in the development or progression of cardiovascular disease, including hypertension and stroke. We have previously demonstrated that acute treatment with the newly discovered organic nitrate, 2‐nitrate‐1,3‐dibuthoxypropan (NDBP), is associated with NO‐like effects in the vasculature. This study aimed to further characterize the mechanism(s) and to elucidate the therapeutic potential in a model of hypertension and oxidative stress.

Experimental Approach

A combination of ex vivo, in vitro and in vivo approaches was used to assess the effects of NDBP on vascular reactivity, NO release, NADPH oxidase activity and in a model of hypertension.

Key Results

Ex vivo vascular studies demonstrated NDBP‐mediated vasorelaxation in mesenteric resistance arteries, which was devoid of tolerance. In vitro studies using liver and kidney homogenates revealed dose‐dependent and sustained NO generation by NDBP, which was attenuated by the xanthine oxidase inhibitor febuxostat. In addition, NDBP reduced NADPH oxidase activity in the liver and prevented angiotensin II‐induced activation of NADPH oxidase in the kidney. In vivo studies showed that NDBP halted the progression of hypertension in mice with chronic angiotensin II infusion. This was associated with attenuated cardiac hypertrophy, and reduced NADPH oxidase‐derived oxidative stress and fibrosis in the kidney and heart.

Conclusion and Implications

The novel organic nitrate NDBP halts the progression of angiotensin II‐mediated hypertension. Mechanistically, our findings suggest that NDBP treatment is associated with sustained NO release and attenuated activity of NADPH oxidase, which to some extent requires functional xanthine oxidase.
Synthesis and biological evaluation of novel lignan glycosides as anticancer agents
Authors: Wang Ying , Xia Chao , Zhang Wei , Zhao Yu
Published: May 2016

Novel lignan glycosides 1a–1 h as analogues of cleistanthin A were designed and synthesized. Most of these compounds displayed significant cytotoxicities against four cancer cell lines. Compound 1e displayed better cytotoxicity than cleistanthin A with IC50 values from 1.0 nm to 8.3 nm. Further lysosome acidity assay disclosed that 1e could totally inhibit the activity of V‐ATPase at 60 nm.
Herpes zoster and the search for an effective vaccine
Authors: Arnold N , Messaoudi I
Published: May 2016

Primary infection with varicella zoster virus (VZV), an exclusively human neurotrophic alphaherpsesvirus, results in varicella, known more commonly as chickenpox. Like other alphaherpesviruses, VZV establishes latency in the sensory ganglia and can reactivate to cause herpes zoster (also known as shingles), a painful and debilitating disease, especially in elderly and immunocompromised individuals. The overall incidence of herpes zoster in Europe and the United States is three per 1000 people, but increases sharply after 60 years of age to 10 per 1000 people. Zostavax® is a vaccine approved by the Federal Drug Administration for the prevention of herpes zoster. Unfortunately, this vaccine reduces the incidence of disease by only 51% and the incidence of post-herpetic neuralgia by 66·5% when administered to those aged 60 and older. Moreover, it is contraindicated for individuals who are immunocompromised or receiving immunosuppressant treatments, although they are at higher risk for herpes zoster compared to immune-competent older individuals. This paper reviews VZV pathogenesis, host responses and current vaccines available to prevent herpes zoster.
On nonepistemic values in conservation biology
Authors: Baumgaertner Bert , Holthuijzen Wieteke
Published: May 2016

Conservation biology is a uniquely interdisciplinary science with strong roots in ecology, but it also embraces a value‐laden and mission‐oriented framework. This combination of science and values causes conservation biology to be at the center of critique regarding the discipline's scientific credibility—especially the division between the realms of theory and practice. We identify this dichotomy between seemingly objective (fact‐based) and subjective (value‐laden) practices as the measure‐value dichotomy, whereby measure refers to methods and analyses used in conservation biology (i.e., measuring biodiversity) and value refers to nonepistemic values. We reviewed and evaluated several landmark articles central to the foundation of conservation biology and concepts of biodiversity with respect to their attempts to separate measures and values. We argue that the measure‐value dichotomy is false and that conservation biology can make progress in ways unavailable to other disciplines because its practitioners are tasked with engaging in both the realm of theory and the realm of practice. The entanglement of measures and values is by no means a weakness of conservation biology. Because central concepts such as biodiversity contain both factual and evaluative aspects, conservation biologists can make theoretical progress by examining, reviewing, and forming the values that are an integral part of those concepts. We suggest that values should be included and analyzed with respect to the methods, results, and conclusions of scientific work in conservation biology.
Diabetes and obesity treatment based on dual incretin receptor activation: ‘twincretins’
Authors: Skow M. A. , Bergmann N. C. , Knop F. K.
Published: May 2016

The gut incretin hormones glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) are secreted after meal ingestion and work in concert to promote postprandial insulin secretion and regulate glucagon secretion. GLP‐1 also slows gastric emptying and suppresses appetite, whereas GIP seems to affect lipid metabolism. The introduction of selective GLP‐1 receptor (GLP‐1R) agonists for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity has increased the scientific and clinical interest in incretins. Combining the body weight‐lowering and glucose‐lowering effects of GLP‐1 with a more potent improvement of β cell function through additional GIP action could potentially offer a more effective treatment of diabetes and obesity, with fewer adverse effects than selective GLP‐1R agonists; therefore, new drugs designed to co‐activate both the GIP receptor (GIPR) and the GLP‐1R simultaneously are under development. In the present review, we address advances in the field of GIPR and GLP‐1R co‐agonism and review in vitro studies, animal studies and human trials involving co‐administration of the two incretins, as well as results from a recently developed GIPR/GLP‐1R co‐agonist, and highlight promising areas and challenges within the field of incretin dual agonists.
Risk prediction of major complications in individuals with diabetes: the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study
Authors: Parrinello C. M. , Matsushita K. , Woodward M. , Wagenknecht L. E. , Coresh J. , Selvin E.
Published: May 2016

Aims

To develop a prediction equation for 10‐year risk of a combined endpoint (incident coronary heart disease, stroke, heart failure, chronic kidney disease, lower extremity hospitalizations) in people with diabetes, using demographic and clinical information, and a panel of traditional and non‐traditional biomarkers.

Methods

We included in the study 654 participants in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study, a prospective cohort study, with diagnosed diabetes (visit 2; 1990–1992). Models included self‐reported variables (Model 1), clinical measurements (Model 2), and glycated haemoglobin (Model 3). Model 4 tested the addition of 12 blood‐based biomarkers. We compared models using prediction and discrimination statistics.

Results

Successive stages of model development improved risk prediction. The C‐statistics (95% confidence intervals) of models 1, 2, and 3 were 0.667 (0.64, 0.70), 0.683 (0.65, 0.71), and 0.694 (0.66, 0.72), respectively (p < 0.05 for differences). The addition of three traditional and non‐traditional biomarkers [β‐2 microglobulin, creatinine‐based estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and cystatin C‐based eGFR] to Model 3 significantly improved discrimination (C‐statistic = 0.716; p = 0.003) and accuracy of 10‐year risk prediction for major complications in people with diabetes (midpoint percentiles of lowest and highest deciles of predicted risk changed from 18–68% to 12–87%).

Conclusions

These biomarkers, particularly those of kidney filtration, may help distinguish between people at low versus high risk of long‐term major complications.
Extracellular microRNAs and endothelial hyperglycaemic memory: a therapeutic opportunity?
Authors: Prattichizzo F. , Giuliani A. , De Nigris V. , Pujadas G. , Ceka A. , La Sala L. , Genovese S. , Testa R. , Procopio A. D. , Olivieri F. , Ceriello A.
Published: May 2016

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a major cause of cardiovascular (CV) disease. Several large clinical trials have shown that the risk for patients with diabetes of developing CV complications is only partially reduced by early, intensive glycaemic control and lifestyle interventions, and that such complications result from changes in complex, not fully explored networks that contribute to the maintenance of endothelial function. The accumulation of senescent cells and the low‐grade, systemic, inflammatory status that accompanies aging (inflammaging) are involved in the development of endothelial dysfunction. Such phenomena are modulated by epigenetic mechanisms, including microRNAs (miRNAs). MiRNAs can modulate virtually all gene transcripts. They can be secreted by living cells and taken up in active form by recipient cells, providing a new communication tool between tissues and organs. MiRNA deregulation has been associated with the development and progression of a number of age‐related diseases, including the enduring gene expression changes seen in patients with diabetes. We review recent evidence on miRNA changes in T2DM, focusing on the ability of diabetes‐associated miRNAs to modulate endothelial function, inflammaging and cellular senescence. We also discuss the hypothesis that miRNA‐containing extracellular vesicles (i.e. exosomes and microvesicles) could be harnessed to restore a ‘physiological’ signature capable of preventing or delaying the harmful systemic effects of T2DM.
Intraoperative Assessment of Left Atrial Diverticulum and Remnant Stump after Left Atrial Appendage Epicardial Occlusion
Authors: Suwalski Grzegorz , Emery Robert , Gryszko Leszek , Kaczejko Kamil , Mroz Jakub , Skrobowski Andrzej
Published: May 2016

Objectives

Epicardial left atrial appendage (LAA) closure with use of occluder is an emerging technique. Absence of remnant LAA stump is major criterion of successful obliteration. The aim of study was to assess early success rate of epicardial LAA closure.

Methods

Fifteen patients with persistent AF and coronary artery disease underwent off‐pump coronary revascularization with concomitant ablation and LAA epicardial occlusion with use of two types of occluders. Before incision and after appendage closure, TEE was performed to assess the LAA anatomy, diameter of left atrial ridge, and remnant LAA stump after occlusion.

Results

In 80% (12) of patients, formation of a left atrial diverticulum was observed with the left atrial ridge forming the superior boundary. In 5 patients (33%), a minimal remnant LAA stump was found, none exceeding 1 cm (average length: 1.5 ± 2.3 mm). In all patients, blood flow in LAA cavity distal to the occluder was absent. There was no significant difference in LAA type, average left atrial diameter, LAA orifice, LAA length, left atrial ridge, or size of occluder used between patients with and without a remnant LAA stump. Occurrence of a remnant LAA stump correlated significantly with unfavorable anatomy (LAA orifice < 20 mm and LA ridge > 5 mm; r = 0.5774, P = 0.02).

Conclusion

The early success of epicardial LAA occlusion is not dependent on LAA morphologic type or occluder used. A minimal remnant LAA stump not exceeding 1 cm in length without distal blood flow was observed in one‐third of the cases.
The conceptual framework of ontogenetic trajectories: parallel transport allows the recognition and visualization of pure deformation patterns
Authors: Piras P. , Teresi L. , Traversetti L. , Varano V. , Gabriele S. , Kotsakis T. , Raia P. , Puddu P. E. , Scalici M.
Published: May 2016

Ontogeny is usually studied by analyzing a deformation series spanning over juvenile to adult shapes. In geometric morphometrics, this approach implies applying generalized Procrustes analysis coupled with principal component analysis on multiple individuals or multiple species datasets. The trouble with such a procedure is that it mixes intra‐ and inter‐group variation. While MANCOVA models are relevant statistical/mathematical tools to draw inferences about the similarities of trajectories, if one wants to observe and interpret the morphological deformation alone by filtering inter‐group variability, a particular tool, namely parallel transport, is necessary. In the context of ontogenetic trajectories, one should firstly perform separate multivariate regressions between shape and size, using regression predictions to estimate within‐group deformations relative to the smallest individuals. These deformations are then applied to a common reference (the mean of per‐group smallest individuals). The estimation of deformations can be performed on the Riemannian manifold by using sophisticated connection metrics. Nevertheless, parallel transport can be effectively achieved by estimating deformations in the Euclidean space via ordinary Procrustes analysis. This approach proved very useful in comparing ontogenetic trajectories of species presenting large morphological differences at early developmental stages.
Gene networks and developmental context: the importance of understanding complex gene expression patterns in evolution
Authors: Signor Sarah A. , Arbeitman Michelle N. , Nuzhdin Sergey V.
Published: May 2016

Animal development is the product of distinct components and interactions—genes, regulatory networks, and cells—and it exhibits emergent properties that cannot be inferred from the components in isolation. Often the focus is on the genotype‐to‐phenotype map, overlooking the process of development that turns one into the other. We propose a move toward micro‐evolutionary analysis of development, incorporating new tools that enable cell type resolution and single‐cell microscopy. Using the sex determination pathway in Drosophila to illustrate potential avenues of research, we highlight some of the questions that these emerging technologies can address. For example, they provide an unprecedented opportunity to study heterogeneity within cell populations, and the potential to add the dimension of time to gene regulatory network analysis. Challenges still remain in developing methods to analyze this data and to increase the throughput. However this line of research has the potential to bridge the gaps between previously more disparate fields, such as population genetics and development, opening up new avenues of research.
High genetic variation in a small population of Cherry leaf roll virus in Betula sp. of montane origin in Corsica
Authors: Langer J. , Rumbou A. , Fauter A. , von Bargen S. , Büttner C.
Published: May 2016

Cherry leaf roll virus (CLRV) infection is common in Betula pendula and B. pubescens in Middle and North Europe, easily observable by chlorotic leaf vein banding, mottling and leaf roll, partially adherent with progressive loss of vitality or death of twigs and branches. In Fennoscandia, a severe viral epidemic in various birch species in forest stands, public greens and roadsides is associated with CLRV. In Corsica, CLRV‐typical symptoms were observed on birch trees (Betula sp.) in a montane stand (1470 m) at Col de Vergio. CLRV was detected by RT‐nested PCR in all leaf samples from 11 randomly selected birch trees exhibiting characteristic symptoms. Along with the fact that this is the first report of CLRV in Betula sp. of both montane and Mediterranean origins, remarkably high genetic variation and a new distinct phylogenetic cluster are comprised by a small randomly sampled CLRV population that has evolved in one of the few scattered birch stands in Corsica.
Urgent hemodialysis with the use of peripheral veins to avoid catheter insertion
Authors: Gołębiowski Tomasz , Letachowicz Krzysztof , Letachowicz Waldemar , Kusztal Mariusz , Kanafa Maciej , Weyde Wacław , Klinger Marian
Published: May 2016

Urgent hemodialysis (HD) in patients with uremia is usually performed using a central vein catheter unless an arteriovenous fistula (AVF) was created in the predialysis period. We present a unique approach, in a patient in whom the first two HD sessions were conducted without implantation of a catheter or AVF. The perfectly developed peripheral veins of a professional bodybuilder served as vascular access allowing catheter insertion to be avoided. The aim of this short case report is to recall a forgotten method for performing urgent HD in patients without a fistula, but with suitably enlarged superficial veins.
Short‐term in vivo modifications of platelet NADPH oxidase 2 (NOX2) and prostaglandin F2α in HIV‐1 patients on abacavir‐based therapies
Authors: Pastori D , Esposito A , Carnevale R , Bartimoccia S , Nocella C , Fantauzzi A , Pignatelli P , Violi F , Mezzaroma I
Published: May 2016

Objectives

The aim of the study was to investigate the in vivo effect of abacavir (ABC) on platelet oxidative stress.

Methods

We performed a randomized pilot study including 39 HIV‐1‐infected patients, 17 on zidovudine/lamivudine (ZDV/3TC) and 22 on tenofovir/emtricitabine (TDF/FTC). Ten patients on ZDV/3TC and eight patients on TDF/FTC were randomly allocated to switching the nucleoside backbone to ABC/3TC. At baseline and after 6 months, platelet oxidative stress was assessed by platelet NADPH oxidase 2 (NOX2)‐derived peptide (sNOX2‐dp), a marker of NOX2 activation, and platelet prostaglandin F2α (8‐iso‐PGF2α). Platelet activation was measured by soluble CD40L (sCD40L).

Results

At baseline, no differences between ZDV/3TC or TDF/FTC recipients were found. After 6 months, patients switching from ZDV/3TC showed a decrease of sNOX2‐dp (from 20.9±5.7 to 12.5±3.8 pg/ml, p=0.002) and 8‐iso‐PGF2α (from 154.3±41.9 to 122.9±28.0 pmol/l, p=0.025). No effects on platelet oxidative stress biomarkers were observed in subjects from TDF/FTC, who showed a significant increase in blood glucose (p=0.043) and total cholesterol (p=0.027). ABC showed no effect on sCD40L levels in both groups.

Conclusions

ABC reduced platelet sNOX2‐dp and 8‐iso‐PGF2α in HIV‐1 subjects switching from ZDV/3TC but not in those from TDF/FTC after 6 months. No changes in platelet activation were found in both groups.
Apoptosis in follicles of individuals with female pattern hair loss is associated with perifollicular microinflammation
Authors: Ramos P. M. , Brianezi G. , Martins A. C. P. , da Silva M. G. , Marques M. E. A. , Miot H. A.
Published: May 2016

Objective

The objective of this study is to evaluate apoptosis in hair follicles of patients with female pattern hair loss (FPHL) and its association with follicular microinflammation.

Method

Cross‐sectional study involving 17 women with FPHL and five controls. Scalp skin samples were processed for HE and TUNEL assays. The variables were compared according to the categories of follicles (terminal versus miniaturized) and groups of patients (FPHL vs. controls).

Results

There was a higher apoptosis index among miniaturized follicles and among the test cases (P < 0.01). Microinflammation was prominent among miniaturized follicles, especially from FPHL (P = 0.02). In addition, a positive correlation between inflammatory infiltrate and apoptosis in miniaturized follicles (rS = 0.68; P < 0.01) was found.

Conclusions

Apoptosis was prominent in hair follicles from the FPHL group, as well as in miniaturized ones. Moreover, it was also correlated with the inflammatory infiltrate, which suggests that inflammation can lead to apoptosis and play a role in the pathogenesis of follicle miniaturization.
Verification and quality control of routine hematology analyzers
Authors: Vis J. Y. , Huisman A.
Published: May 2016

Verification of hematology analyzers (automated blood cell counters) is mandatory before new hematology analyzers may be used in routine clinical care. The verification process consists of several items which comprise among others: precision, accuracy, comparability, carryover, background and linearity throughout the expected range of results. Yet, which standard should be met or which verification limit be used is at the discretion of the laboratory specialist. This paper offers practical guidance on verification and quality control of automated hematology analyzers and provides an expert opinion on the performance standard that should be met by the contemporary generation of hematology analyzers. Therefore (i) the state‐of‐the‐art performance of hematology analyzers for complete blood count parameters is summarized, (ii) considerations, challenges, and pitfalls concerning the development of a verification plan are discussed, (iii) guidance is given regarding the establishment of reference intervals, and (iv) different methods on quality control of hematology analyzers are reviewed.
Diagnosis, risk stratification and management of monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance and smoldering multiple myeloma
Authors: van de Donk N. W. C. J. , Mutis T. , Poddighe P. J. , Lokhorst H. M. , Zweegman S.
Published: May 2016

Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) is one of the most common premalignant disorders. IgG and IgA MGUS are precursor conditions of multiple myeloma (MM), whereas light‐chain MGUS is a precursor condition of light‐chain MM. Smoldering MM (SMM) is a precursor condition with higher tumor burden and higher risk of progression to symptomatic MM compared to MGUS. Assessment of the risk of progression of patients with asymptomatic monoclonal gammopathies is based on various factors including clonal burden, as well as biological characteristics, such as cytogenetic abnormalities and light‐chain production. Several models have been constructed that are useful in daily practice for predicting risk of progression of MGUS or SMM. Importantly, the plasma cell clone may occasionally be responsible for severe organ damage through the production of a M‐protein which deposits in tissues or has autoantibody activity. These disorders are rare and often require therapy directed at eradication of the underlying clone. Importantly, recent studies have shown that asymptomatic patients with a bone marrow plasma cell percentage ≥60%, free light‐chain ratio ≥100, or >1 focal lesion on MRI (myeloma‐defining events) have a 80% risk of developing symptomatic MM within 2 years. These patients are now considered to have MM requiring therapy, similar to patients with symptomatic disease. In this review, we provide an overview of the new diagnostic criteria of the monoclonal gammopathies and discuss risk of progression to active MM. We also provide recommendations for the management of patients with MGUS and SMM including risk‐adapted follow‐up.
Laboratory testing for antiphospholipid syndrome
Authors: Pengo V. , Banzato A. , Bison E. , Denas G. , Zoppellaro G. , Bracco A. , Padayattil Jose S. , Hoxha A. , Ruffatti A.
Published: May 2016

This is a practical report on laboratory tests for the diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). After a general definition of APS, this study deals with appropriateness and timing in requesting the determination of antiphospholipid (aPL) antibodies. Lupus anticoagulant (LAC), anticardiolipin (aCL), and anti β2‐glycoprotein I (aβGPI) are the mandatory tests to be performed, while other tests are not yet validated for clinical use. Interpretation of results is an important discussed issue that implies a close liaison between clinical pathologists and clinicians. Finally, a personal definition of APS according to aPL antibody profile closes the manuscript.
Weight change in the management of youth‐onset type 2 diabetes: the TODAY clinical trial experience
Authors: Marcus M. D. , Wilfley D. E. , El ghormli L. , Zeitler P. , Linder B. , Hirst K. , Ievers‐Landis C. E. , van Buren D. J. , Walders‐Abramson N. ,   For the TODAY Study Group
Published: May 2016

Background

The Treatment Options for type 2 Diabetes in Adolescents and Youth (TODAY) clinical trial documented that metformin plus rosiglitazone, but not metformin plus lifestyle intervention, provided superior durability of glycemic control relative to metformin monotherapy.

Objectives

We examined weight changes among TODAY participants that completed at least 6 months of treatment, evaluated predictors of lifestyle outcome, and examined whether weight changes were related to cardiometabolic outcomes across treatment arms.

Methods

The 595 youth with type 2 diabetes, (85.1% of randomized participants aged 11–17 years) completed assessments of weight‐related and cardiometabolic measures at months 0, 6, 12 and 24. Repeated measures models were used to investigate associations over time.

Results

Lifestyle intervention did not enhance outcome relative to metformin alone and no predictors of response to lifestyle treatment were identified. However, changes in percent overweight across treatment arms were associated with changes in multiple cardiometabolic risk factors, and decreases of ≥ 7% in overweight were associated with significant benefits over 24 months.

Conclusions

Although adjunctive intensive lifestyle intervention did not improve weight‐related outcomes, weight changes in the full TODAY sample were associated with small, but significant improvements in cardiometabolic status, highlighting the importance of optimizing weight management in youth with T2DM.
A New Leviathan: Benefit Sanctions in the Twenty‐first Century
Authors: Adler Michael
Published: May 2016

This article highlights the spectacular growth of benefit sanctions in the United Kingdom which, at their peak, exceeded the number of fines imposed in the criminal courts. It proposes a three‐fold typology of monetary sanctions – punitive judicial sanctions, exemplified by court fines, regulatory administrative sanctions, exemplified by parking penalties, and disciplinary administrative monetary sanctions, exemplified by benefit sanctions – and compares them in terms of their main aims, how they are imposed, whether the interests of those sanctioned are protected, their severity, the socio‐economic characteristics of offenders, the hardship caused, how proportionate they are, and whether they are compatible with justice. It argues that they are particularly problematic because their severity causes great and disproportionate hardship, and because, in addition to punishing offenders, they also attempt to discipline them by managing their behaviour, and concludes that, in the United Kingdom, they function as a key instrument for disciplining and managing the poor.
Privacy and Search Engines: Forgetting or Contextualizing?
Authors: de Mars Sylvia , O'Callaghan Patrick
Published: May 2016

This article considers the much‐criticized ‘right to be forgotten’ in the context of the European Court of Justice's judgment in the Google Spain case. It defends the ‘right to be forgotten’ as a metaphor that can provide us with a better understanding of the particular privacy concerns of the search‐engine age and their interaction with the freedom to access information, and draws on Goffman's idea of ‘information games’ and Nissenbaum's theory of ‘contextual integrity’. While supporting the principles that underpin the judgment, the article rejects the Court's binary approach of ‘forgetting’ versus ‘remembering’ personal information. Instead, it argues that the EU legislator should introduce more nuanced means of addressing modern privacy concerns. By establishing two remedies – ‘delisting’ or ‘reordering’, depending on the nature of the information – online information flows can be adjusted to preserve both the right to privacy and the freedom to access information in more contextually appropriate ways.
Socio‐legal Studies in France: Beyond the Law Faculty
Authors: Colson Renaud , Field Stewart
Published: May 2016

This article is the third in an occasional series dealing with the development, current status, and future of socio‐legal studies in selected countries. It follows articles by Kim Economides (Aotearoa/New Zealand) and Harry Arthurs and Annie Bunting (Canada).

In this article we argue that in France one can identify work that corresponds to the key strands of socio‐legal research in Anglo‐American societies but that ‘socio‐legal’ as a category of research and scholarship does not have the presence it has in the United Kingdom. French law faculties continue to be strongly shaped by a traditional disciplinary orthodoxy rooted in a highly and distinctively structured form of doctrinal analysis. In the first part, we explain the relatively limited presence of socio‐legal studies in French law faculties in terms of the historical and institutional mechanisms by which disciplinary closure has been created and maintained around traditional orthodoxies. But in the second part we will trace the presence – predominantly outside law faculties – of significant fragments of socio‐legal practice in the scholarship of law and allied disciplines.
Preliminary Data: An Adapted Hospital Elder Life Program to Prevent Delirium and Reduce Complications of Acute Illness in Long‐Term Care Delivered by Certified Nursing Assistants
Authors: Boockvar Kenneth S. , Teresi Jeanne A. , Inouye Sharon K.
Published: May 2016

Nursing home (NH) residents have a high prevalence of delirium risk factors, experience two to four acute medical conditions (e.g., infections) each year, and have an incidence of delirium during these conditions similar to that of hospitalized older adults. Many NH residents with delirium do not return to their prior level of cognitive function. They are more likely to die, be hospitalized, and less likely to be discharged home than those without delirium. Research on the prevention or treatment of delirium in NHs is limited. This article describes the development and pilot testing of a multicomponent delirium prevention intervention in the NH setting adapted from the Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP‐LTC). Activities to reduce the risk of delirium that were appropriate for functionally impaired NH residents were developed and delivered during treatment for and recovery from acute illness, a novel resident‐targeting approach. Expertly trained certified nursing assistants (CNAs — a total of 1.4 full‐time equivalent (FTE) positions—) visited residents throughout the facility and delivered the activities. The current study reports on incident delirium, delirium remission, cognitive and physical function change, hospitalization, and death associated with acute medical conditions as ascertained by a program coordinator. The integration and acceptance of the CNAs' activities by residents and staff are also reported on. Hospitalization and death were ascertained in a nonintervention comparison group. Findings support a test of the intervention in a controlled trial. The potential effect is great; there are approximately 1.4 million NH residents in the United States and an estimated 1 million with dementia or cognitive impairment, an important delirium risk factor. An intervention would be broadly adoptable if a reduction in healthcare costs through prevention of hospitalization offset the cost of the program's CNAs.
The human gut microbiota and its interactive connections to diet
Authors: Milani C. , Ferrario C. , Turroni F. , Duranti S. , Mangifesta M. , van Sinderen D. , Ventura M.
Published: May 2016

The microbiota of the gastrointestinal tract plays an important role in human health. In addition to their metabolic interactions with dietary constituents, gut bacteria may also be involved in more complex host interactions, such as modulation of the immune system. Furthermore, the composition of the gut microbiota may be important in reducing the risk of contracting particular gut infections. Changes in the microbiota during an individual's lifespan are accompanied by modifications in multiple health parameters, and such observations have prompted intense scientific efforts aiming to understand the complex interactions between the microbiota and its human host, as well as how this may be influenced by diet.
Veneered Zirconia‐Based Restorations Fracture Resistance Analysis
Authors: Al‐Wahadni Ahed , Shahin Ahmad , Kurtz Kenneth S.
Published: May 2016

Purpose

To examine the effects of the veneering technique on the fracture resistance of zirconia‐based crowns.

Materials and Methods

An artificial tooth was prepared with a 1.2 mm heavy chamfer finish line and 8° taper. The prepared tooth was scanned using CAD/CAM technology to fabricate 45 cobalt chromium (CoCr) testing dies. One CoCr die was scanned, and 45 zirconia copings were milled and divided according to the veneering technique into three groups of 15 specimens each: layering veneering (LV) using Vita Vm9, overpressing veneering (OV) using Vita Pm9, and digital veneering (DV) using Vita Triluxe forte. The crowns were cemented onto the testing dies using glass ionomer cement. The specimens were thermocycled (3000 cycles, 5° to 55°) then statically loaded (3.7 mm ball, 0.5 mm/min crosshead speed) until failure. Failed crowns were inspected using a magnifier, and failure patterns were identified. One‐way ANOVA and multiple comparison Bonferroni tests were applied for statistical analysis of the results.

Results

Means and standard deviations of failure loads were 1200 ± 306 N for the LV group, 857 ± 188 N for the OV group, and 638 ± 194 N for the DV group. The differences in failure loads were statistically significant between all groups (p < 0.05). Failure mode was predominantly cohesive for LV and OV groups, whereas it was predominantly adhesive for the DV group.

Conclusions

The LV group was superior to other groups in terms of fracture resistance, while the DV group was inferior to the other groups in the same aspect.
Why God Had to Have an Immaculate Mother
Authors: Epsen Edward
Published: May 2016

Anselm's argument for the salvific necessity of the Incarnation in his Cur Deus Homo is justly famous and elegantly simple: only man ought; only God can; therefore, only a God-man both ought and can (atone for sin). Unfortunately it is a paralogism, trading on an equivocal use of ‘ought’. It is not difficult, however, to reconceive the meaning of the terms ‘ought’ and ‘can’ in a way that both renders the argument formally valid and deepens our christology. Sin may be conceived, per Anselm's own insistence, as a condition of the human soul in its relation to God, a failure of the human will to establish itself in harmonious union with the divine will. If the integrity of created human nature requires that its psychological conditions are propagated together with it, then one who has both the duty and ability to atone for sin must be descended from Adam but must enjoy the original justice of the soul that Adam rejected and deformed in himself. Thus, systematically reconstructing Anselm's argument has the surprising consequence of enabling us to posit an argument for the salvific necessity of the Immaculate Conception as a preparatory stage in the hypostatic union of the Incarnation.
Complementary feeding: Vegetables first, frequently and in variety
Authors: Chambers L.
Published: May 2016

Diets rich in fruit and vegetables are associated with lower risk of a number of chronic health problems, but the majority of people do not consume enough of these foods. The main predictor of fruit and vegetable intake is enjoyment of these foods, but vegetables are often disliked, especially by children. Food preferences developed in the early years track throughout childhood and beyond and, therefore, it is critical that vegetable liking is promoted at the very earliest opportunity. The start of complementary feeding is a sensitive period for the development of food preferences, as infants will readily accept new foods and quickly learn to like them. Repeated exposure to a variety of vegetables during complementary feeding is an effective way to encourage infants to accept these foods. Recent research has suggested that offering vegetables exclusively for the first few weeks of complementary feeding offers additional benefits, but survey data indicate that this is not yet commonly practised in the UK. Encouraging UK parents to adopt a ‘vegetables first, frequently and in variety’ approach to complementary feeding is likely to steer children towards a lifelong preference for these foods and all the associated health benefits.
Can sulforaphane prevent the onset or slow the progression of osteoarthritis?
Authors: Davidson R. K. , Jupp O. , Bao Y. , MacGregor A. J. , Donell S. T. , Cassidy A. , Clark I. M.
Published: May 2016

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease characterised in part by destruction of articular cartilage. There are currently no disease‐modifying drugs to treat OA, with joint replacement the only treatment offered to patients at end‐stage disease. With age the major risk factor for OA, the number of patients is predicted to double by 2030. An understanding of the role of bioactive molecules from the habitual diet on joint health offers a novel way in which to prevent the onset or slow the progression of OA. Our research has indicated that sulforaphane (SFN), gained from the consumption of cruciferous vegetables, particularly broccoli, could impact upon articular cartilage in laboratory models of OA because (1) it decreased the cytokine‐induced expression of cartilage‐degrading proteinases from chondrocytes (cartilage cells); (2) it prevented the cytokine‐induced degradation of cartilage explants; and (3) it attenuated cartilage destruction in a murine model of OA. The major mechanism of action for SFN in human articular chondrocytes was inhibition of NFκB, not activation of Nrf2 nor inhibition of histone deacetylases. A proof‐of‐principle human trial was performed to measure uptake of SFN, or its metabolites, in the human knee joint following a broccoli‐rich diet, and the expression or levels of several genes and proteins in cartilage, fat and synovial fluid were also measured. Data from this trial are about to be published. Overall, these findings support the utility of SFN in the prevention or treatment of OA. The proof of this requires an appropriately designed clinical trial of pain and function which we are currently pursuing.
Decline in measured glomerular filtration rate is associated with a decrease in endurance, strength, balance and fine motor skills
Authors: Hellberg Matthias , Höglund Peter , Svensson Philippa , Abdulahi Huda , Clyne Naomi
Published: May 2016

Aim

Physical performance in chronic kidney disease affects morbidity and mortality. The aim was to find out which measures of physical performance are important in chronic kidney disease (CKD) and if there are associations with declining measured glomerular filtration rate (GFR).

Methods

Endurance was assessed by 6 min walk test (6‐MWT) and stair climbing, muscular endurance by 30 s sit to stand, heel rises and toe lifts, strength by quadriceps‐ and handgrip‐strength, balance by functional reach and Berg's balance scale, and fine motor skills by Moberg's picking‐up test. GFR was measured by Iohexol clearance.

Results

The study comprised 101 patients with CKD 3b‐5 not started dialysis, 40 women and 61 men, with a mean age of 67 ± 13 (range: 22 – 87) years. All measures of physical performance were impaired. A decrease in GFR of 10 mL/min per 1.73 m2 corresponded to a 35 metre shorter walking distance in the 6‐MWT. Multivariable linear regression analysis showed significant relationships between decline in GFR and the 6‐MWT (P = 0.04), isometric quadriceps strength left (P = 0.04), balance measured as functional reach (P = 0.02) and fine motor skills in the left hand as measured by Moberg's picking‐up test (P = 0.01), respectively, after sex, age, comorbidity and the interaction between sex and age had been taken into account.

Conclusion

Endurance, muscular endurance, strength, balance and fine motor skills were impaired in patients with CKD 3b‐5. Walking capacity, isometric quadriceps strength, balance, and fine motor skills were associated with declining GFR. The left extremities were more susceptible to GFR, ageing and comorbidities and seem thus to be more sensitive.
The effect of holiday haemodialysis treatments on patient mood, adverse symptoms and subjective wellbeing using the Big Red Kidney Bus
Authors: Sims Jane , Bennett Paul N , Ockerby Cherene , Ludlow Marie , Fairbairn Jo , Wilson Anne , Kerr Peter G
Published: May 2016

Background and Aims

People with end‐stage kidney disease receiving haemodialysis are restricted to holidays where dialysis services are readily available. Holiday dialysis in regional, rural and remote areas is particularly challenging. The aims of this study were to evaluate the wellbeing of those who received dialysis in a holiday haemodialysis bus and to measure patient well‐being with that of a comparable cohort of haemodialysis patients.

Methods

A three machine haemodialysis bus, the Big Red Kidney Bus, was built to enable people, their families and carers to take holidays across a range of tourist destinations in Victoria, Australia. Measures included pre‐post subjective well‐being, dialysis symptoms and mood questionnaires complemented by post semi‐structured telephone interviews.

Results

Participating holidaymakers were positive about the haemodialysis bus service and the standard of care experienced. They reported decreased dialysis side effects of fatigue, muscle cramp and dry skin. The overall number of reported symptoms decreased, and the perceived level of bother associated with symptoms also decreased. No changes in subjective well‐being and mood were detected. Mean Personal Wellbeing Index scores were significantly higher than in a comparative haemodialysis sample.

Conclusion

The Big Red Kidney Bus provided a safe and feasible holiday dialysis service. Holidaymakers' well‐being was reflected by the decreased dialysis patient side effects.
Consumers’ Risk Perception of Household Cleaning and Washing Products
Authors: Bearth Angela , Miesler Linda , Siegrist Michael
Published: May 2016

A large share of accidental and nonaccidental poisonings are caused by household cleaning and washing products, such as drain cleaner or laundry detergent. The main goal of this article was to investigate consumers’ risk perception and misconceptions of a variety of cleaning and washing products in order to inform future risk communication efforts. For this, a sorting task including 33 commonly available household cleaning and washing products was implemented. A total of 60 female consumers were asked to place the cleaning and washing products on a reference line 3 m in length with the poles “dangerous” and “not dangerous.” The gathered data were analyzed qualitatively and by means of multidimensional scaling, cluster analysis, and linear regression. The dimensionality of the sorting data suggests that both analytically (i.e., written and graphical hazard notes and perceived effectiveness) and intuitively driven risk judgments (i.e., eco vs. regular products) were applied by the participants. Furthermore, results suggest the presence of misconceptions, particularly related to consumers’ perceptions of eco cleaning products, which were generally regarded as safer than their regular counterparts. Future risk communication should aim at dispelling these misconceptions and promoting accurate risk perceptions of particular household cleaning and washing products.
Health and social care management for older adults with multimorbidity: a multiperspective approach
Authors: Meranius Martina Summer , Josefsson Karin
Published: May 2016

Multimorbidity, a condition common among older adults, may be regarded as a failure of a complex system. The aim of this study was to describe the core components in health and social care management for older adults with multimorbidity. A cross‐sectional design included two methods: individual interviews and group discussions. A total of 105 participants included older adults with multimorbidity and their relatives, care staff and healthcare policymakers. Data were analysed using content analysis. The results show that seven core components comprise a multiperspective view of health and social care management for older adults with multimorbidity: political steering, leadership, cooperation, competence, support for relatives, availability and continuity. Steps should be taken to ensure that every older adult with multimorbidity has a treatment plan according to a multiperspective view to prevent fragmentation of their health care. This study provides relevant evidence developing a multiperspective model of health and social care management for older adults with multimorbidity.