bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extraction and Identification of Anthocyanins in Corn Cob and Corn Husk from Cacahuacintle Maize
Authors: Fernandez‐Aulis Fernanda , Hernandez‐Vazquez Liliana , Aguilar‐Osorio Guillermo , Arrieta‐Baez Daniel , Navarro‐Ocana Arturo
Published: April 2019

Pigmented maize has been extensively studied due to its high anthocyanin content. This study has been focused mainly on kernel, although the whole plant of purple corn is a potential source of anthocyanins. First, general parameters of extraction (solvent system, solvent‐to‐solid ratio, number of extractions, and acid type) were established depending on the total anthocyanins content. Then, three extraction methods to access anthocyanins were compared: maceration extraction (ME), ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE), and microwave‐assisted extraction (MAE). Since the residual material still possessed an intense color, a further treatment was performed by application of enzymatic‐assisted extraction (EAE). Three enzymatic cocktails (Xylanases, Celluclast, and Depol), pH, and temperature were evaluated to establish optimal reaction conditions. Subsequent analysis and identification of the anthocyanins obtained by four different extraction techniques were performed using HPLC and HPLC–mass spectrometry, respectively. The most efficient method was UAE using 20 min of ultrasound (100 W) preceded by sample treatment in the following conditions: ethanol/water/lactic acid mixture (80:19:1), two extractions, 1:10 solvent‐to‐solid ratio. As a result, anthocyanins from corn cob and corn husk were extracted at concentrations of 24.32 and 25.80 mg/gDW, respectively. No difference in the anthocyanins profile for samples extracted by three different methods was observed. However, an enhanced presence of cyanidin‐3‐(6’’malonyl)glucoside was detected in the sample corresponding to the EAE method. Therefore, the Cahuacintle corn husk can be considered as a competitive source of anthocyanins with the available commercial sources.

Practical Application

The by‐products obtained from Cacahuacintle purple corn can be potentially used as natural colorants thanks to their anthocyanins content. In this work, we established the most efficient extraction method of anthocyanins from corn husk and corn cob, and demonstrated that their anthocyanins profile is comparable to other Peruvian purple corns, which are currently used as natural colorants. Therefore, the extraction procedure described in this study might be scaled‐up in an industrial process to get access to anthocyanins from undervalued wastes.
Contracting on litigation
Authors: Spier Kathryn E. , Prescott J.J.
Published: April 2019

Two risk‐averse litigants with different subjective beliefs negotiate in the shadow of a pending trial. Through contingent contracts, the litigants can mitigate risk and/or speculate on the trial outcome. Contingent contracting decreases the settlement rate and increases the volume and costs of litigation. These contingent contracts mimic the services provided by third‐party investors, including litigation funders and insurance companies. The litigants (weakly) prefer to contract with risk‐neutral third parties when the capital market is transaction‐cost free. However, contracting with third parties further decreases the settlement rate, increases the costs of litigation, and may increase the aggregate cost of risk bearing.
Stigma and Fear: The ‘Psy Professional’ in Cultural Artifacts
Authors: Hopson Jacqueline
Published: April 2019

The loss of reason called madness provokes perhaps the greatest human fear, for it is reason that dignifies humanity and separates us from beasts. The ‘psy professionals’ – those who prescribe and administer treatments for madness – are frequently portrayed in fiction, film, comics, computer games and entertainments, along with the mad themselves and the asylums that confine them. Overall, these depictions are malign: the reader/watcher/player is encouraged to fear the mad, the madhouse and the mad‐doctor. Choosing to use less abrasive vocabulary to name the condition of madness makes no difference to the terror the condition arouses, for the content of many books and games aims to inspire fear. In spite of considerable efforts over many years, the stigma which attaches to mental illness remains firmly in place for patients, while psy professionals also carry their share of ‘some of the discredit of the stigmatized’ and join patients in a stigmatized group. Popular belief often equates the psy professions with madness. This paper explores ways in which the fear of madness, and the stigma which clings to sufferers and their professional carers, is perpetuated by a constant stream of popular cultural artifacts.
Studying the Process of Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy: Discursive and Embodied Aspects
Authors: Avdi Evrinomy , Seikkula Jaakko
Published: April 2019

This paper presents a case study that aims to further our understanding of the relational and embodied aspects of the psychotherapy process. One psychoanalytic session is examined on multiple levels, including talk, participants’ physiological arousal and interactional attunement, ruptures in the therapeutic alliance, postural congruence and facial expression of affect. Implicit processes of non‐verbal attunement seem to play a role in resolving ruptures and in fostering exploration and the creation of new meanings. Embodied attunement was found to be at its highest at points in the session characterized by verbal disjunction and ruptures in the therapeutic alliance. The therapeutic dyad was ‘in sync’ non‐verbally until tension was resolved, at which point, synchrony was relaxed, and therapist and client were able to proceed with their respective ‘tasks’, secure in the knowledge that the other is there for them. It is argued that attempts to describe the complex and nuanced processes of psychotherapeutic change would benefit from attending to both explicit/semantic and implicit/non‐verbal domains of interaction.
Resident burnout in USA and European urology residents: an international concern
Authors: Marchalik Daniel , C. Goldman Charlotte , F. L. Carvalho Filipe , Talso Michele , H. Lynch John , Esperto Francesco , Pradere Benjamin , Van Besien Jeroen , E. Krasnow Ross
Published: April 2019

Objective

To describe the prevalence and predictors of burnout in USA and European urology residents, as although the rate of burnout in urologists is high and associated with severe negative sequelae, the extent and predictors of burnout in urology trainees remains poorly understood.

Subjects and methods

An anonymous 32‐question survey of urology trainees across the USA and four European countries, analysing personal, programme, and institutional factors, was conducted. Burnout was assessed using the validated abridged Maslach Burnout Inventory. Univariate analysis and multivariable logistic regression models assessed drivers of burnout in the two cohorts.

Results

Overall, 40% of participants met the criteria for burnout as follows: Portugal (68%), Italy (49%), USA (38%), Belgium (36%), and France (26%). Response rates were: USA, 20.9%; Italy, 45.2%; Portugal, 30.5%; France, 12.5%; and Belgium, 9.4%. Burnout was not associated with gender or level of training. In both cohorts, work–life balance (WLB) dissatisfaction was associated with increased burnout (odds ratio [OR] 4.5, P < 0.001), whilst non‐medical reading (OR 0.6, P = 0.001) and structured mentorship (OR 0.4, P = 0.002) were associated with decreased burnout risk. Lack of access to mental health services was associated with burnout in the USA only (OR 3.5, P = 0.006), whilst more weekends on‐call was associated with burnout in Europe only (OR 8.3, P = 0.033). In both cohorts, burned out residents were more likely to not choose a career in urology again (USA 54% vs 19%, P < 0.001; Europe 43% vs 25%, P = 0.047).

Conclusion

In this study of USA and European urology residents, we found high rates of burnout on both continents. Despite regional differences in the predictors of burnout, awareness of the unique institutional drivers may help inform directions of future interventions.
Prevalence of urolithiasis among the Uyghur children of China: a population‐based cross‐sectional study
Authors: Mai Zanlin , Liu Yongda , Wu Wenqi , Aierken Ainiwaer , Jiang Chonghe , Batur Jesur , Wusiman Sulitan , Ma Jinxiang , Li Yusi , Xu Hai , Ainiwa Aikebaier , Saimaiti Saiding , Tuerxun Aierken , Zeng Guohua
Published: April 2019

Objectives

To investigate the prevalence and associated factors of urolithiasis amongst Uyghur children.

Subjects and Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted of Uyghur children (aged ≤14 years) in the Kashgar Region of China, from July to December 2016. Children were selected by a two‐stage random clustered sampling method, evaluated by urinary tract ultrasonography, low‐dose computed tomography (CT) examination, blood and urine analysis, and a questionnaire. The prevalence by CT, the prevalence by self‐report in the questionnaires, and the lifetime prevalence were evaluated. Binary logistic regression was used to estimate the associated factors.

Results

A total of 5605 children were selected and invited to participate in the study. In all, 4813 Uyghur children (2471 boys and 2342 girls), with an mean (SD; range) age of 75.79 (43.81; 2–177) months, were included in the final analysis, with a response rate of 85.9%. The prevalence of paediatric urolithiasis was 1.8% (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.5–2.2) by CT, 2.3% (95% CI 1.9–2.7) by self‐report, and 3.6% (95% CI 3.0–4.1) for the overall life‐time. The age‐sex adjusted prevalence was 2.0% (95% CI 1.6–2.4) by CT. Binary logistic regression analysis showed that body mass index, urinary tract infection, a family history of urolithiasis, and excessive sweating could increase the risk of stone formation, whilst breast feeding and drinking water at midnight could decrease the risk.

Conclusions

Urolithiasis is a major public health problem amongst Uyghur children, and strategies aimed at the prevention of urolithiasis are needed.
Exporting firms and the demand for skilled tasks
Authors: Brambilla Irene , Lederman Daniel , Porto Guido
Published: April 2019

This paper explores the link between exports and the demand for skilled tasks. Using the Chilean Encuesta Nacional Industrial Anual (ENIA), an annual census of manufacturing firms, we first show that Chilean exporters utilize more skills than Chilean non‐exporters. More importantly, we establish a distinct pattern of task differentiation among exporters both within skilled and unskilled tasks. Exporting firms demand the services of skilled specialized workers (engineers) as opposed to skilled administrative workers and managers. In addition, exporters demand less unskilled labour, especially blue‐collar operatives. This suggests that exporters substitute skilled engineers for unskilled blue‐collar workers to perform export‐related tasks.
Combination of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and endoscopic ultrasonography‐guided biliary drainage in malignant hilar biliary obstruction
Authors: Kongkam Pradermchai , Tasneem Abbas Ali , Rerknimitr Rungsun
Published: April 2019

Adequate biliary drainage (BD), defined as more than 50% of liver volume drained, is an ideal BD method in patients with advanced and unresectable malignant hilar biliary obstruction (MHBO). Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) with multi‐segmental BD is technically challenging. ERCP with percutaneous biliary drainage (PTBD) or PTBD alone has cumbersome maintenance of PTBD line and external bag. The utility of EUS‐guided BD (EUS‐BD) has risen significantly over last 5 years mostly in the clinical setting of distal bile duct obstruction. Information on EUS‐BD for malignant hilar biliary obstruction (MHBO) is thus far limited to only two small studies. This review suggests a new concept of a combination of ERCP and EUS‐BD (CERES) for BD in MHBO as a primary BD method whereby ERCP with a single self‐expandable metal stent (SEMS) is placed into either the right or the left intrahepatic bile duct (IHD). If SEMS is placed in the right biliary system, EUS‐guided hepaticogastrostomy (EUS‐HGS) can subsequently be carried out. However, if the stent is placed into the left biliary system, EUS‐guided hepaticoduodenostomy (EUS‐HDS) is done. For MHBO with non‐functioning right lobe of the liver, EUS‐HGS is carried out after failed ERCP, or primary HGS can be carried out in the left lobe of liver. For MHBO with non‐functioning left lobe of the liver, EUS‐HDS is carried out after failed transpapillary stenting of the right lobe by ERCP. Based on our experience, CERES is promising as it can fulfil gaps of both PTBD and ERCP by allowing internal drainage that can circumvent the inconvenience associated with PTBD and offer higher technical success rate compared to ERCP with bilateral SEMS placement.
Clinical usefulness of magnifying colonoscopy for the diagnosis of ulcerative colitis‐associated neoplasia
Authors: Kawasaki Keisuke , Nakamura Shotaro , Esaki Motohiro , Kurahara Koichi , Eizuka Makoto , Nuki Yoichiro , Kochi Shuji , Fujiwara Minako , Oshiro Yumi , Sugai Tamotsu , Matsumoto Takayuki
Published: April 2019

Background and Aim

The aim of this investigation was to evaluate the efficacy of Japanese magnifying colonoscopic classifications for ulcerative colitis‐associated neoplasia (UCAN).

Methods

We reviewed the colonoscopy records from 2011 to 2018 at our institutions and identified cases of endoscopically or surgically resected UCAN observed by magnifying narrow‐band imaging (NBI) endoscopy and magnifying chromoendoscopy. Association between magnifying endoscopic classification and histopathological findings was investigated retrospectively. Japan NBI expert team (JNET) classification and pit pattern classification were applied.

Results

There were 17 patients who had a diagnosis of UCAN. Tumors of types 2A, 2B and 3 by JNET classification correlated with the histopathological findings of low‐grade dysplasia (LGD)/high‐grade dysplasia (HGD), HGD, and massively submucosal invasive (mSM) carcinoma, respectively. Tumors of types III/IV, VI low irregularity, and VI high irregularity/VN by pit pattern classification were correlated with the histopathological findings of LGD/HGD, HGD, and mSM carcinoma, respectively.

Conclusions

Japan NBI expert team classification and pit pattern classification may be predictive of the histological diagnosis and invasion depth of UCAN. This needs to be investigated prospectively in a large cohort or in a randomized clinical trial.
A call from justice to support the people in Gaza
Authors: Lederman Zohar , Lederman Shmuel , Daniels Emily Shepp
Published: April 2019

Using Madison Powers and Ruth Faden's definition of ‘well‐being,’ the authors argue that Israel, the international community and public health practitioners have a justice‐based obligation to assist the Palestinian people in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Focusing on Palestinians in Gaza, the authors first outline a normative framework of justice, as articulated by Powers and Faden. Following Powers and Faden's assumption that empirical assessments of justice can be made using the six dimensions of well‐being, the authors next present current data on the living conditions in Gaza and describe how these conditions prevent residents from achieving sufficient levels of well‐being. Using these indicators to demonstrate that Palestinians living in Gaza suffer deficiencies in these dimensions of well‐being, the authors present a strong argument from justice to assist the residents of Gaza. The medical, public health, and bioethics community cannot sit idle while injustice continues.
Efficacy and safety of a morning injection of insulin glargine 300 units/mL versus insulin glargine 100 units/mL in adult patients with type 1 diabetes: A multicentre, randomized controlled trial using continuous glucose monitoring
Authors: Pettus Jeremy , Gill Jasvinder , Paranjape Sachin , Stewart John , Malla Shilpy , Edelman Steven , Bergenstal Richard M. , Bode Bruce
Published: April 2019

Video abstract: View a video abstract for this article.

Aims

This multicentre (N = 104), randomized controlled phase 4 study compared the efficacy and safety of insulin glargine 300 units/mL (Gla‐300) with insulin glargine 100 units/mL (Gla‐100) in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

Materials and methods

Patients were randomized 1:1 to self‐perform morning Gla‐300 or Gla‐100 injections daily for 16 weeks. The primary endpoint was percentage of time blood glucose remained in the target range (70–180 mg/dL) during Week 15/16, measured by blinded continuous glucose monitoring. Secondary endpoints included incidence and rate of nocturnal symptomatic hypoglycaemia (≤70 mg/dL), glycaemic variability parameters and safety assessments. Exploratory analyses were performed in patients with glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) <7.5% at Week 16.

Results

Overall, 638 patients with T1D were included (Gla‐300, n = 320; Gla‐100, n = 318). In the modified intent‐to‐treat (mITT) population, no differences between Gla‐300 and Gla‐100 were observed in time in range, in glycaemic variability, or in incidence or rates of nocturnal symptomatic hypoglycaemia. In exploratory analyses of patients with HbA1c <7.5% at Week 16, Gla‐300 recipients had greater improvement in time in range over 24 hours, during the day and at night compared with Gla‐100 recipients (P < 0.05), with small increases in overall hypoglycaemia.

Conclusions

Time in range and glycaemic variability were similar for Gla‐300 and Gla‐100 recipients at the end of study in the mITT population of relatively well‐controlled patients with T1D. In patients with end‐of‐study HbA1c <7.5%, exploratory analyses suggested that Gla‐300 provided improvements in time in range compared with Gla‐100.
Challenges and opportunities of trilateral co‐operation: Collaboration by the USA, Brazil and Mozambique on horticultural research, 2011–2015
Authors: Schmink Marianne , Cairns Smart Jennifer , Sitoe Isabel , Bowen Walter , Silva Henoque Ribeiro , Ecole Carvalho Carlos , Haber Lenita
Published: April 2019

Motivation

This article analyses the lessons learned through the lived experience of the 2011–2015 Trilateral Project of Technical Support to the Programs of Nutrition and Food Security (PSAL), a collaboration between US and Brazilian organizations working together in Mozambique with local partners. The PSAL project tested and adapted vegetable crop production, post‐harvest and processing practices and technologies; developed field infrastructure for research, extension and processing; trained scores of Mozambican researchers, interns, interviewers and extension technicians; and collected, organized and made systematic socioeconomic information publicly available.

Purpose

Trilateral co‐operation (TC) is an innovative model of development assistance involving collaboration by a traditional donor, a pivotal country and a host country. There is little documentation on how it works in practice. In this article, key questions were explored regarding three aspects of suggested best practices for TC: collaboration and co‐ordination; ownership and synergies; adaptive governance.

Approach and Methods

The project sought to experiment with and learn about practical mechanisms and strategies for effective implementation of TC, and to document benefits, challenges and lessons learned during the process. Drawing on dozens of interviews, anonymous individual surveys of project participants and discussions at the beginning and the end of the project, this article explores the principal challenges and gains from working in TC from the perspective of dozens of project participants.

Findings

Project participants reported that they improved many aspects of their technical capacity, and benefited from multidisciplinary learning through participation in TC, strengthening Mozambique’s institutional capacity to improve vegetable production.

Policy implications and Conclusions

The article concludes with recommendations for future TC projects: invest in communications and collaboration based on interdisciplinary trilateral teams; involve all levels of organizations as well as all participating actors in the whole value chain; address limitations, priorities and incentives in local institutions; and adopt innovative and adaptive governance strategies and mechanisms to address the evolution of complex trilateral interactions.
HETEROGENEOUS EFFECTS OF ONLINE REPUTATION FOR LOCAL AND NATIONAL RETAILERS
Authors: Newberry Peter , Zhou Xiaolu
Published: April 2019

We study the heterogeneous effect of online reputation for sellers that differ in their national presence and examine how this heterogeneity affects the distribution of sales on a large Chinese platform. We estimate a demand model that incorporates a learning process and allow for the process to vary across sellers who are differentiated by their national presence. The estimates suggest that the impact of reputation is larger for local sellers. Using these estimates, we find that removing the reputation system would result in large shift of demand from local sellers to national sellers.
RATIONAL DISINHIBITION AND EXTERNALITIES IN PREVENTION
Authors: Toxvaerd Flavio
Published: April 2019

This article studies a model of disease propagation in which rational and forward‐looking individuals can control their exposure to infection by engaging in costly preventive behavior. Equilibrium outcomes under decentralized decision making are characterized and contrasted to the outcomes chosen by a social planner. In general, individuals overexpose themselves to infection, leading to suboptimally high disease prevalence. The model is applied to study the welfare effects of preexposure prophylaxis, which reduces transmission between serodiscordant couples and causes disinhibition. It is shown that a decrease in the induced infection risks increases disease prevalence and can lead to decreases in overall welfare.
L'effet des obstacles aux échanges sur l'emploi généré par les chaînes d'approvisionnement mondiales
Authors: KÜHN Stefan , VIEGELAHN Christian
Published: April 2019

Les auteurs étudient l'effet des obstacles aux échanges internationaux de biens et de services sur les marchés du travail des pays producteurs en partant des estimations du BIT sur l'emploi imputable aux chaînes d'approvisionnement mondiales. L'analyse empirique confirme largement les prédictions d'un modèle théorique calibré avec des données de la base WIOD (2000 et 2011). Les obstacles au commerce de produits manufacturés ou de services ont un effet transfrontalier, intrasectoriel et intersectoriel, sur l'emploi, qui reflète l'interdépendance croissante entre pays et secteurs. L'effet intersectoriel s'affirme avec le temps. Les politiques commerciales semblent donc pouvoir avoir des effets externes importants sur les marchés du travail étrangers.
Just married: the synergy between feminist criminology and the Tripartite Cybercrime Framework
Authors: Lazarus Suleman
Published: April 2019

This article is a theoretical treatment of feminist epistemology of crime, which advocates the centrality of gender as a theoretical starting point for the investigating of digital crimes. It does so by exploring the synergy between the feminist perspectives and the Tripartite Cybercrime Framework (TCF) (which argues that three possible factors motivate cybercrimes – socioeconomic, psychosocial, and geopolitical) to critique mainstream criminology and the meaning of the term “cybercrime”. Additionally, the article examines gender gaps in online harassment, cyber‐bullying, cyber‐fraud, revenge porn, and cyber‐stalking to demonstrate that who is victimised, why, and to what effect are the critical starting points for the analysis of the connections between gender and crimes. In turn, it uses the lens of intersectionality to acknowledge that, while conceptions of gender and crime interact, they intersect with other categories (e.g., sexuality) to provide additional layers of explanation. To nuance the utilitarian value of the synergy between the TCF and the feminist perspectives, the focus shifts to a recent case study (which compared socioeconomic and psychosocial cybercrimes). The article concludes that, while online and offline lives are inextricably intertwined, the victimisations in psychosocial cybercrimes may be more gendered than in socioeconomic cybercrimes. These contributions align the TCF to the feminist epistemology of crime in their attempt to move gender analysis of digital crimes “from margin to centre”.
A family systems perspective on supporting self‐determination in young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities
Authors: Taylor Whitney D. , Cobigo Virginie , Ouellette‐Kuntz Hélène
Published: April 2019

Background

This study explored the way families support self‐determination in young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) during life transitions.

Method

Qualitative case studies were conducted with two Canadian families who participated in semi‐structured interviews and ethnographic observations every quarter for one year. Analyses were informed by family systems theory and self‐determination theory.

Findings

Families considered the needs and preferences of the young adults with IDD, suggesting individualized approaches for balancing independence and protection. Families set short‐term and long‐term goals for increased independence, scaffolded the learning of new skills and collaborated on important choices. Collaboration occurred to the extent that all family members perceived agency in planning and implementing transitions.

Conclusions

Families supported the young adults with IDD in their psychological needs for competence, relatedness and autonomy, which allowed them to experience self‐determination. Findings have implications for supporting self‐determination and transition planning in the family system.
Xanthatin inhibits STAT3 and NF‐κB signalling by covalently binding to JAK and IKK kinases
Authors: Liu Man , Xiao Cheng‐qian , Sun Ming‐wei , Tan Min‐jia , Hu Li‐hong , Yu Qiang
Published: April 2019

Aberrant activation of the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and the nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) signalling pathways is associated with the development of cancer and inflammatory diseases. JAKs and IKKs are the key regulators in the STAT3 and NF‐κB signalling respectively. Therefore, the two families of kinases have been the major targets for developing drugs to regulate the two signalling pathways. Here, we report a natural compound xanthatin from the traditional Chinese medicinal herb Xanthium L. as a potent inhibitor of both STAT3 and NF‐κB signalling pathways. Our data demonstrated that xanthatin was a covalent inhibitor and its activities depended on its α‐methylene‐γ‐butyrolactone group. It preferentially interacted with the Cys243 of JAK2 and the Cys412 and Cys464 of IKKβ to inactivate their activities. In doing so, xanthatin preferentially inhibited the growth of cancer cell lines that have constitutively activated STAT3 and p65. These data suggest that xanthatin may be a promising anticancer and anti‐inflammation drug candidate.
Characteristics of Lawyers Who Are Subject to Complaints and Misconduct Findings
Authors: Sklar Tara , Taouk Yamna , Studdert David , Spittal Matthew , Paterson Ron , Bismark Marie
Published: April 2019

Regulators of the legal profession are charged with protecting the public by ensuring lawyers are fit to practice law. However, their approach tends to be reactive and case based, focusing on the resolution of individual complaints. Regulators generally do not seek to identify patterns and trends across their broader caseloads and the legal profession as a whole. Using administrative data routinely collected by the main regulator of the legal profession in Victoria, Australia, we characterized complaints lodged between 2005 and 2015 and the lawyers against whom they were made. We also analyzed risk factors for complaints and misconduct findings. We found that the odds of being subject to a complaint were higher among lawyers who were male, older, had trust account authority, and whose legal practices were smaller, in nonurban locations, and incorporated. A deeper understanding of these risk factors could support efforts to improve professional standards and reform regulatory practices.
Limitation of microbial spoilage of rainbow trout fillets using characterized thyme oil antibacterial nanoemulsions
Authors: Meral Raciye , Ceylan Zafer , Kose Senol
Published: April 2019

Thyme oil nanoemulsions (TONa and TONb), having 219 nm and 163 nm diameters, were successfully prepared by using sonication technique. Zeta potential (ZP) and polydispersity indexes (PDI) of TONa and TONb were defined to be 19.77, 0.24 and −24.80, 0.054, respectively. It was determined that zeta size values of TONs might have played a role on the inhibition of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium. All bacteria tested by agar diffusion method were gram‐negative bacteria that could be mostly found in fish fillets. Within 9 days cold storage period, TMAB growth in fish fillets treated with TONb was successfully reduced from 6.42 to 4.62 log CFU/g (change: 28%). In addition, as compared with control group samples, TPB growth of the same group was limited by 1.51 log CFU/g (from 7.93 to 6.42 log CFU/g). The results suggested that treatment of the fish fillets with the TONs would be a useful and practical nano application to delay microbial growth in fish fillets.

Practical applications

Thyme oil nanoemulsions (TONa and TONb) with a lower diameter than 219 nm have been successfully obtained. Antibacterial effects of TONa and TONb nanoemulsions have been revealed before treatment with fish fillets. The results revealed that TONs could be successfully used for the limitation of microbial spoilage of fish fillets stored at 4°C for 9 days. In this respect, the nano application with rapid and cost‐effective has been presented for the fishery processing industry.
Valuing Government Obligations When Markets Are Incomplete
Authors: HASANHODZIC JASMINA , KOTLIKOFF LAURENCE J.
Published: April 2019

We simulate a 10‐period overlapping generations model with aggregate shocks to price safe and risky government obligations using consumption‐asset pricing. Agents cannot trade with future generations to hedge the model's productivity and depreciation shocks, and can only invest in one‐period bonds and risky capital. We find that the pricing of short‐ and long‐dated riskless obligations is anchored to the prevailing risk‐free return. The prices of obligations whose values are proportional to the prevailing wage are essentially identical to those of safe obligations, notwithstanding large macro shocks. On the contrary, government obligations in the form of options entail significant risk adjustment.
Multiple parametric nanoscale measurements with high sensitivity based on through‐focus scanning optical microscopy
Authors: PENG R. , QU Y. , HAO J. , PAN H. , NIU J. , JIANG J.
Published: April 2019

High‐throughput through‐focus scanning optical microscopy (TSOM) involves defocusing along the optical axis and capturing a series of defocus images and is useful in optical nanoscale measurement. However, TSOM is usually affected by its optical and mechanical noises. In this study, the issue of sensitivity and application in three‐dimensional (3D) multiple parameter measurement of TSOM is investigated. First, a TSOM system with objective scanning and its relative simulation algorithm are proposed. Second, based upon the system and algorithm, an experiment on an isolated Au line is performed and the corresponding matching library is established. Comparing the experimental TSOM image and simulated TSOM images of the library, 3D multiple parameter results of the Au line are extracted. Third, the precision of the system is analysed through a fidelity test particular for through‐focus images. According to this study, the system is robust to the optical and mechanical noises and hence could be useful in 3D multiple parametric measurement and high‐volume nanomanufacturing.
WRITING PAPERS IN ECONOMICS USING FAKE LATEX
Authors: Irwin Scott H.
Published: April 2019

LaTeX is a very popular platform for writing papers in economics, mainly due to its superior aesthetics in print. The question is whether the aesthetic (and other) benefits of adopting LaTeX outweigh the opportunity costs of learning and using LaTeX, which can be high even for experienced users. FaKe LaTeX using Microsoft Word has a remarkably similar visual appearance to papers produced in native LaTeX and it is easy to learn and use. This low cost alternative may be appealing to many economists.
Proxy Advisory Firms: The Economics of Selling Information to Voters
Authors: MALENKO ANDREY , MALENKO NADYA
Published: April 2019

We analyze how proxy advisors, which sell voting recommendations to shareholders, affect corporate decision‐making. If the quality of the advisor's information is low, there is overreliance on its recommendations and insufficient private information production. In contrast, if the advisor's information is precise, it may be underused because the advisor rations its recommendations to maximize profits. Overall, the advisor's presence leads to more informative voting only if its information is sufficiently precise. We evaluate several proposals on regulating proxy advisors and show that some suggested policies, such as reducing proxy advisors' market power or decreasing litigation pressure, can have negative effects.
Thrombectomy of Ventricular Assist Device‐Originated Embolic Stroke: A Clinical Decision Model
Authors: Colletta Kalea L. , Bar Barak , Liebo Max J. , Borys Ewa , Schneck Michael J. , Gomez Camilo R.
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The use of ventricular assist devices (VADs) for the treatment of heart failure has become increasingly common. These patients have a considerable risk of cerebral embolism. We describe such a patient and his successful treatment by thrombectomy, compare his attributes with those previously published, and describe the construct of a clinical decision model, whose results bear practical implications for patient management.

METHODS

The details of our patient and his treatment are presented, followed by a literature review of all previously reported similar cases. Using this information, as well as that available from published series, we constructed a probabilistic decision tree, completed all calculations (ie, “folding back”), and, in order to assess the strength of the results, subjected them to multiple independent sensitivity analyses of each of the variables.

RESULTS

The therapeutic success of our case, the 14th reported to date, when combined with previous reports, shows: (1) recanalization times of 184 minutes, (2) “successful” recanalization (ie, TICI = 2b or 3) achieved in 71% of procedures, (3) ultimate functional outcome (ie, mRS = 0‐2) achieved in 57% patients, and (4) ultimate successful heart transplantations in 66% of cases. The clinical decision model showed the predicted utility of thrombectomy to be superior to conservative management (3.33 QALY vs. 2.56 QALY, respectively). The sensitivity analyses support the validity of these results.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, thrombectomy appears to be a safe and effective method (and often the only viable one) for urgent treatment of patients with VAD‐originated cerebral embolism.
The impossibility of sociology as a science; arguments from within the discipline
Authors: Balon Jan , Holmwood John
Published: April 2019

This paper addresses a key moment in the development of sociology when its status as a science was criticised from within by ethnomethodologists (Harvey Sacks and Harold Garfinkel), post‐Althusserian Marxists (Barry Hindess) and Michel Foucault. These criticisms seemed to come from different sides, but they converged in arguing their positions from the point of view of a proper conception of science through which mainstream sociology was found wanting. Neither secured its own position and each had a similar legacy of a form of interpretivism hostile both to scientific sociology and its critical project. The paper situates this moment and its legacy where both correspondence and coherence criteria for sociological knowledge claims come to be undermined.
The right response at the right time: Exploring helminth immune modulation in sticklebacks by experimental coinfection
Authors: Piecyk Agnes , Ritter Marc , Kalbe Martin
Published: April 2019

Parasites are one of the strongest selective agents in nature. They select for hosts that evolve counter‐adaptive strategies to cope with infection. Helminth parasites are special because they can modulate their hosts’ immune responses. This phenomenon is important in epidemiological contexts, where coinfections may be affected. How different types of hosts and helminths interact with each other is insufficiently investigated. We used the three‐spined stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus) – Schistocephalus solidus model to study mechanisms and temporal components of helminth immune modulation. Sticklebacks from two contrasting populations with either high resistance (HR) or low resistance (LR) against S. solidus, were individually exposed to S. solidus strains with characteristically high growth (HG) or low growth (LG) in G. aculeatus. We determined the susceptibility to another parasite, the eye fluke Diplostomum pseudospathaceum, and the expression of 23 key immune genes at three time points after S. solidus infection. D. pseudospathaceum infection rates and the gene expression responses depended on host and S. solidus type and changed over time. Whereas the effect of S. solidus type was not significant after three weeks, T regulatory responses and complement components were upregulated at later time points if hosts were infected with HG S. solidus. HR hosts showed a well orchestrated immune response, which was absent in LR hosts. Our results emphasize the role of regulatory T cells and the timing of specific immune responses during helminth infections. This study elucidates the importance to consider different coevolutionary trajectories and ecologies when studying host‐parasite interactions.
Reconfiguring the French nation: Public debates on the Left and national identity
Authors: Conversi Daniele
Published: April 2019

Since the 1980s, neoliberal globalisation has shaped the fate of local and national cultural productions, from movies to music, from entertainment to food. How did French intellectual and political elites respond to this unprecedented challenge? What were the implications for the politics of nationalism and national identity? Two books respond to these questions, although in very different ways – the first directly and the second indirectly. Vincent Martigny'sDire la Franceexplains how a new way of narrating French national identity emerged in the 1980s within an internationally oriented French Left, attentive of the coming challenges of cultural pluralism. Patrick Boucheron's (ed.)Histoire mondiale de la Franceadvances into a more challenging direction by skilfully unsettling the ‘our ancestors the Gauls’ clichéd narrative. French history is thus redefined by moving away from the Frankish/Gallic myth of descent, thereby reconfiguring national identity along new lines. This article identifies how crucial debates on the cultural nation and cultural identity emerged in the wake of the May 1968 uprising, asking how much they contributed to the current shape and meaning of French national identity. It thus reviews what can be described as a new historiographical turn in French history.
Recovery of amphibian, reptile, bird and mammal diversity during secondary forest succession in the tropics
Authors: Acevedo‐Charry Orlando , Aide T. Mitchell
Published: April 2019

In tropical regions, many studies have focused on how vegetation and ecosystem processes recover following the abandonment of anthropogenic activities, but less attention has been given to the recovery patterns of vertebrates. Here we conduct a meta‐analysis (n = 147 studies) of amphibian, reptile, bird and mammal recovery during tropical secondary forest succession (i.e. natural regeneration). For each taxonomic group, we compared changes in species richness and compositional similarity during natural secondary succession to reference forests (mature or old growth forest). In addition, we evaluated the response of forest specialists and the change in bird and mammal functional groups during natural secondary succession in the tropical moist forest biome. Overall, species richness of all groups reached levels of the reference forests during natural secondary succession, but this was not the case for species compositional similarity. The delay in recovery of forest specialists may be the reason for the delay in recovery of species compositional similarity. Overall, vertebrate recovery increased with successional stage, but other potential predictors of diversity recovery, such as, the geographical setting (amphibian and reptile species compositional similarity recovered more rapidly on islands), rainfall (mammal species richness and compositional similarity recovered faster in regions of low rainfall), and the landscape context (amphibian, reptile and mammal species compositional similarity recovered faster in regions with more forest patches) influenced vertebrate recovery. These results demonstrate the important role of secondary forests in providing habitat for many vertebrates, but the slow recovery of species compositional similarity, forest specialists and some functional groups (e.g. insectivorous birds) highlighted the challenge of secondary forest persistence, and strongly argues for the continued protection of old growth/mature forest as habitat for forest specialists and as sources for secondary forest sites.
Establishing an allied health professional delivered selective laser trabeculoplasty service in Scotland
Authors: Chadwick Oliver , Chia Seen Nee , Rotchford Alan
Published: April 2019

Purpose

To describe the process of establishing a selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) service delivered by experienced allied health professionals (AHP) in a Scottish NHS Hospital Eye Service, and assess the safety and efficacy in comparison with SLT performed by ophthalmologists.

Methods

A training scheme for AHPs who were experienced in extended roles within the glaucoma service was developed, consisting of supervised training by a consultant ophthalmologist specialising in glaucoma leading to the AHPs independently delivering SLT. A prospective audit of consecutive SLT procedures performed by AHPs between November 2015 and April 2017 was performed. Data were analysed and compared to a previous intradepartmental audit of SLT performed by ophthalmologists (consultants and trainees).

Results

A total of 325 eyes of 208 patients underwent SLT, of which 117 patients had bilateral SLT in a single session. The overall rate of complications was 3.9%, however these were minor and/or self‐limiting (this compared to a 3.8% complication rate in the ophthalmologist delivered SLT series). The rate of intraocular pressure (IOP) spike was 0.3%, compared to 1.4% in the ophthalmologist delivered SLT series. Mean IOP at listing was 20.9 ± 5.1 mmHg, 17.3 ± 4.5 mmHg at 3 months post SLT and 17.6 ± 3.7 mmHg at 12 months—a median reduction of 16.7% at 3 months and 17.4% at 12 months. There was no statistically significant difference between the percentage reduction in IOP in the AHP and ophthalmologist delivered SLT groups at 3 or 12 months.

Conclusions

This is the first service of its kind in Scotland and the outcomes of this study demonstrate that the AHP delivered SLT service is at least as safe as the previous ophthalmologist delivered SLT service. The data demonstrate a similar efficacy between AHP and ophthalmologist delivered SLT. In the face of increasing demand and workload, this is a practical model in service commissioning to free up medical clinicians for more complex glaucoma management.
Recombinant human C1 esterase inhibitor treatment for hereditary angioedema attacks in children
Authors: Reshef Avner , Grivcheva‐Panovska Vesna , Kessel Aharon , Kivity Shmuel , Klimaszewska‐Rembiasz Maria , Moldovan Dumitru , Farkas Henriette , Gutova Vaclava , Fritz Stephen , Relan Anurag , Giannetti Bruno , Magerl Markus
Published: April 2019

Background

Attacks of hereditary angioedema (HAE) due to C1 esterase inhibitor deficiency (C1‐INH‐HAE) usually begin during childhood or adolescence. However, limited data are available regarding indications and modalities of treatment of children. This study evaluated recombinant human C1‐INH (rhC1‐INH) for HAE attacks in children.

Methods

This open‐label, phase 2 study included children aged 2‐13 years with C1‐INH‐HAE. Eligible HAE attacks were treated intravenously with rhC1‐INH 50 IU/kg body weight (maximum, 4200 IU). The primary end‐point was time to beginning of symptom relief (TOSR; ≥20 mm decrease from baseline in visual analog scale [VAS] score, persisting for two consecutive assessments); secondary end‐point was time to minimal symptoms (TTMS; <20 mm VAS score for all anatomic locations).

Results

Twenty children (aged 5‐14 years; 73 HAE attacks) were treated with rhC1‐INH. Seventy (95.9%) of the attacks were treated with a single dose of rhC1‐INH. Seven (35.0%) children were treated for four or more attacks. Overall, median TOSR was 60.0 minutes (95% confidence interval [CI], 60.0‐65.0); data were consistent across attacks. Median TTMS was 122.5 minutes (95% CI, 120.0‐126.0); data were consistent across attacks. No children withdrew from the study due to adverse events. No treatment‐related serious adverse events or hypersensitivity reactions were reported; no neutralizing antibodies were detected.

Conclusions

Recombinant human C1‐INH was efficacious, safe, and well tolerated in children. Data support use of the same dosing regimen for HAE attacks in children (50 IU/kg; up to 4200 IU, followed by an additional dose, if needed) as is currently recommended for adolescents and adults.
Linear morphea overlying site of previous lichen aureus in a pediatric patient
Authors: Johnston Margaret , Benson Patrick , Morley Keith
Published: April 2019

Lichen aureus is a pigmented purpuric dermatosis that tends to occur on the lower extremities, and linear morphea is an inflammatory disease of the dermis and subcutaneous fat that leads to a scarlike induration. We present a pediatric case of linear morphea developing in the same anatomic distribution as prior lichen aureus. Due to the possible progression of lichen aureus to morphea described herein and the difficulty in diagnosing early morphea, close follow‐up may be considered for pediatric patients who present with this pigmented purpuric dermatosis.