bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plasma effects on the generation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species in cancer cells in-vitro exposed by atmospheric pressure pulsed plasma jets
Authors: Kim Sun Ja , Chung T. H.
Published: August 2015

Atmospheric pressure pulsed helium plasma jets are utilized for plasma-cell interactions. The effect of operating parameters such as applied voltage, pulse repetition frequency, and duty ratio on the generation of specific reactive oxygen and nitrogen species in gas and liquid phases and within cells is investigated. The apoptotic changes detected by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT)-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling assay in cells caused by plasma exposure are observed to correlate well with the levels of extracellular and intracellular reactive oxygen and nitrogen species.
Defect-assisted local field rearrangement during nanograting formation with femtosecond pulses
Authors: Liang Feng , Bouchard Julien , Leang Chin See , Vallée Réal
Published: August 2015

Defect-assisted local field rearrangement during nanograting formation is demonstrated by simply writing a nanograting perpendicularly across another one. It is shown that pre-distributed nanogrooves and laser-induced defects have a great impact on local field arrangement. Depending on the writing parameters, the nanograting period could be significantly altered as a consequence of this local field rearrangement. Accordingly, precise control of the overlap between neighboring passes during a sequential scan is achieved and well-shaped large-area nanogratings can be produced.
Development of flexible, free-standing, thin films for additive manufacturing and localized energy generation
Authors: Clark Billy , McCollum Jena , Pantoya Michelle L. , Heaps Ronald J. , Daniels Michael A.
Published: August 2015

Film energetics are becoming increasingly popular because a variety of technologies are driving a need for localized energy generation in a stable, safe and flexible form. Aluminum (Al) and molybdenum trioxide (MoO3) composites were mixed into a silicon binder and extruded using a blade casting technique to form flexible free-standing films ideal for localized energy generation. Since this material can be extruded onto a surface it is well suited to additive manufacturing applications. This study examines the influence of 0-35% by mass potassium perchlorate (KClO4) additive on the combustion behavior of these energetic films. Without KClO4 the film exhibits thermal instabilities that produce unsteady energy propagation upon reaction. All films were cast at a thickness of 1 mm with constant volume percent solids to ensure consistent rheological properties. The films were ignited and flame propagation was measured. The results show that as the mass percent KClO4 increased, the flame speed increased and peaked at 0.43 cm/s and 30 wt% KClO4. Thermochemical equilibrium simulations show that the heat of combustion increases with increasing KClO4 concentration up to a maximum at 20 wt% when the heat of combustion plateaus, indicating that the increased chemical energy liberated by the additional KClO4 promotes stable energy propagation. Differential scanning calorimeter and thermogravimetric analysis show that the silicone binder participates as a fuel and reacts with KClO4 adding energy to the reaction and promoting propagation.
Tailoring the optical properties of wide-bandgap based microcavities via metal films
Authors: Sebald K. , Rahman SK. S. , Cornelius M. , Gutowski J. , Klein T. , Klembt S. , Kruse C. , Hommel D.
Published: August 2015

We report on the tuning of the optical properties of II-VI-material-based microcavity samples, which is achieved by depositing Ag films on top of the structures. The micro-reflectivity spectra show a spectral shift of the sample resonance dependent on the metal layer thickness. By comparison of the experimental findings with the theoretical calculations applying the transfer matrix method on a metal-dielectric mirror structure, the influence of the metal layer particularly with regard to its partial oxidation was explored. Tamm plasmon modes are created at the interface between an open cavity with three ZnSe quantum wells and a metal layer on top. When tuning the excitonic emission relative to the mode by changing the sample temperature, an anticrossing of the resonances was observed. This is a clear indication that the strong coupling regime has been achieved in that sample configuration yielding a Rabi splitting of 18.5 meV. These results are promising for the realization of polariton-based optical devices with a rather simple sample configuration.
The collaborative roots of corruption
Authors: Weisel Ori , Shalvi Shaul
Published: August 2015

Significance

Recent financial scandals highlight the devastating consequences of corruption. While much is known about individual immoral behavior, little is known about the collaborative roots of curruption. In a novel experimental paradigm, people could adhere to one of two competing moral norms: collaborate vs. be honest. Whereas collaborative settings may boost honesty due to increased observability, accountability, and reluctance to force others to become accomplices, we show that collaboration, particularly on equal terms, is inductive to the emergence of corruption. When partners' profits are not aligned, or when individuals complete a comparable task alone, corruption levels drop. These findings reveal a dark side of collaboration, suggesting that human cooperative tendencies, and not merely greed, take part in shaping corruption.
Cryptic infection of a broad taxonomic and geographic diversity of tadpoles by Perkinsea protists
Authors: Chambouvet Aurélie , Gower David J. , Jirků Miloslav , Yabsley Michael J. , Davis Andrew K. , Leonard Guy , Maguire Finlay , Doherty-Bone Thomas M. , Bittencourt-Silva Gabriela Bueno , Wilkinson Mark , Richards Thomas A.
Published: August 2015

Significance

Amphibians are among the most threatened animal groups. Population declines and extinctions have been linked, in part, to emerging infectious diseases. One such emerging disease has been attributed to Perkinsea-like protists causing mass mortality events in the United States. Using molecular methods, we evaluated the diversity of Perkinsea parasites in livers sampled from a wide taxonomic collection of tadpoles from six countries across three continents. We discovered a previously unidentified phylogenetically distinct infectious agent of tadpole livers present in a broad range of frogs from both tropical and temperate sites and across all sampled continents. These data demonstrate the high prevalence and global distribution of this infectious protist.
Interference effects of choice on confidence: Quantum characteristics of evidence accumulation
Authors: Kvam Peter D. , Pleskac Timothy J. , Yu Shuli , Busemeyer Jerome R.
Published: August 2015

Significance

Most cognitive and neural decision-making models—owing to their roots in classical probability theory—assume that decisions are read out of a definite state of accumulated evidence. This assumption contradicts the view held by many behavioral scientists that decisions construct rather than reveal beliefs and preferences. We present a quantum random walk model of decision-making that treats judgments and decisions as a constructive measurement process, and we report the results of an experiment showing that making a decision changes subsequent distributions of confidence relative to when no decision is made. This finding provides strong empirical support for a parameter-free prediction of the quantum model.
Dimerization of elongator protein 1 is essential for Elongator complex assembly
Authors: Xu Huisha , Lin Zhijie , Li Fengzhi , Diao Wentao , Dong Chunming , Zhou Hao , Xie Xingqiao , Wang Zheng , Shen Yuequan , Long Jiafu
Published: August 2015

Significance

Elongator is a highly conserved multiprotein complex composed of six subunits elongator protein 1 (Elp1 to -6). Elongator has been associated with various cellular activities and has attracted clinical attention because of its role in certain neurodegenerative diseases. To understand the mechanism of Elongator assembly, we identified the highly conserved dimerization domain in both human and yeast Elp1 subunits and solved the crystal structures of the dimerization domains. This study is a mechanistic analysis of Elp1 dimerization, which plays an essential role in the integrity of functional Elongator and suggests that the pathological mechanisms underlying the onset and progression of Elp1 mutation-related diseases may result from impaired Elongator activities.
Mechanical coupling of the multiple structural elements of the large-conductance mechanosensitive channel during expansion
Authors: Li Jie , Guo Jianli , Ou Xiaomin , Zhang Mingfeng , Li Yuezhou , Liu Zhenfeng
Published: August 2015

Significance

Mechanosensation underlies fundamental biological processes, including osmoregulation in microbes, touch and hearing in animals, and gravitropism and turgor pressure sensing in plants. The microbial large-conductance mechanosensitive channel (MscL) functions as a pressure-relief valve during hypoosmotic shock. MscL represents an ideal model system for investigating the molecular mechanism of the mechanical force transduction process. By solving and comparing the structures of an archaeal MscL in two different conformational states, we have revealed coordinated movements of the different domains of the MscL channel. Through this study, direct insights into the physical principle of the mechanical coupling mechanism, which coordinates the multiple structural elements of this highly sophisticated nanoscale valve, have been established.
Key driving forces in the biosynthesis of autoinducing peptides required for staphylococcal virulence
Authors: Wang Boyuan , Zhao Aishan , Novick Richard P. , Muir Tom W.
Published: August 2015

Significance

Autoinducing peptide (AIP), a cyclic peptide produced by the bacterium
Staphylococcus aureus
for intercellular communication, contains a high-energy thiolactone linkage. This linkage is proposed to form directly from the proteolysis of a stable peptide bond without free energy input from ATP hydrolysis. Using highly purified protein/peptide components, we reconstitute this proteolysis event and show that this reaction is powered collectively by the stabilization of the thiolactone product as a consequence of membrane partitioning and the degradation of the concomitantly released C-terminal fragment. Rapid turnover of the C fragment is required for efficient AIP production in vivo, indicating a connection between protein homeostasis and intercellular signaling in
S. aureus
.
Chemical fingerprints encode mother–offspring similarity, colony membership, relatedness, and genetic quality in fur seals
Authors: Stoffel Martin A. , Caspers Barbara A. , Forcada Jaume , Giannakara Athina , Baier Markus , Eberhart-Phillips Luke , Müller Caroline , Hoffman Joseph I.
Published: August 2015

Significance

Understanding olfactory communication in natural vertebrate populations requires knowledge of how genes and the environment influence highly complex individual chemical fingerprints. To understand how relevant information is chemically encoded and may feed into mother–offspring recognition, we therefore generated chemical and genetic data for Antarctic fur seal mother–pup pairs. We show that pups are chemically highly similar to their mothers, reflecting a combination of genetic and environmental influences. We also reveal associations between chemical fingerprints and both genetic quality and relatedness, the former correlating positively with substance diversity and the latter encoded mainly by a small subset of substances. Dissecting apart chemical fingerprints to reveal subsets of potential biological relevance has broad implications for understanding vertebrate chemical communication.
Microtubule motors transport phagosomes in the RPE, and lack of KLC1 leads to AMD-like pathogenesis
Authors: Jiang Mei , Esteve-Rudd Julian , Lopes Vanda S. , Diemer Tanja , Lillo Concepción , Rump Agrani , Williams David S.
Published: August 2015

The degradation of phagosomes, derived from the ingestion of photoreceptor outer segment (POS) disk membranes, is a major role of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Here, POS phagosomes were observed to associate with myosin-7a, and then kinesin-1, as they moved from the apical region of the RPE. Live-cell imaging showed that the phagosomes moved bidirectionally along microtubules in RPE cells, with kinesin-1 light chain 1 (KLC1) remaining associated in both directions and during pauses. Lack of KLC1 did not inhibit phagosome speed, but run length was decreased, and phagosome localization and degradation were impaired. In old mice, lack of KLC1 resulted in RPE pathogenesis that was strikingly comparable to aspects of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), with an excessive accumulation of RPE and sub-RPE deposits, as well as oxidative and inflammatory stress responses. These results elucidate mechanisms of POS phagosome transport in relation to degradation, and demonstrate that defective microtubule motor transport in the RPE leads to phenotypes associated with AMD.
Iconicity can ground the creation of vocal symbols
Authors: Perlman Marcus , Dale Rick , Lupyan Gary
Published: August 2015

Studies of gestural communication systems find that they originate from spontaneously created iconic gestures. Yet, we know little about how people create vocal communication systems, and many have suggested that vocalizations do not afford iconicity beyond trivial instances of onomatopoeia. It is unknown whether people can generate vocal communication systems through a process of iconic creation similar to gestural systems. Here, we examine the creation and development of a rudimentary vocal symbol system in a laboratory setting. Pairs of participants generated novel vocalizations for 18 different meanings in an iterative ‘vocal’ charades communication game. The communicators quickly converged on stable vocalizations, and naive listeners could correctly infer their meanings in subsequent playback experiments. People's ability to guess the meanings of these novel vocalizations was predicted by how close the vocalization was to an iconic ‘meaning template’ we derived from the production data. These results strongly suggest that the meaningfulness of these vocalizations derived from iconicity. Our findings illuminate a mechanism by which iconicity can ground the creation of vocal symbols, analogous to the function of iconicity in gestural communication systems.
Moral parochialism and contextual contingency across seven societies
Authors: Fessler Daniel M. T. , Barrett H. Clark , Kanovsky Martin , Stich Stephen , Holbrook Colin , Henrich Joseph , Bolyanatz Alexander H. , Gervais Matthew M. , Gurven Michael , Kushnick Geoff , Pisor Anne C. , von Rueden Christopher , Laurence Stephen
Published: August 2015

Human moral judgement may have evolved to maximize the individual's welfare given parochial culturally constructed moral systems. If so, then moral condemnation should be more severe when transgressions are recent and local, and should be sensitive to the pronouncements of authority figures (who are often arbiters of moral norms), as the fitness pay-offs of moral disapproval will primarily derive from the ramifications of condemning actions that occur within the immediate social arena. Correspondingly, moral transgressions should be viewed as less objectionable if they occur in other places or times, or if local authorities deem them acceptable. These predictions contrast markedly with those derived from prevailing non-evolutionary perspectives on moral judgement. Both classes of theories predict purportedly species-typical patterns, yet to our knowledge, no study to date has investigated moral judgement across a diverse set of societies, including a range of small-scale communities that differ substantially from large highly urbanized nations. We tested these predictions in five small-scale societies and two large-scale societies, finding substantial evidence of moral parochialism and contextual contingency in adults' moral judgements. Results reveal an overarching pattern in which moral condemnation reflects a concern with immediate local considerations, a pattern consistent with a variety of evolutionary accounts of moral judgement.
Historical drivers of extinction risk: using past evidence to direct future monitoring
Authors: Di Marco Moreno , Collen Ben , Rondinini Carlo , Mace Georgina M.
Published: August 2015

Global commitments to halt biodiversity decline mean that it is essential to monitor species' extinction risk. However, the work required to assess extinction risk is intensive. We demonstrate an alternative approach to monitoring extinction risk, based on the response of species to external conditions. Using retrospective International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List assessments, we classify transitions in the extinction risk of 497 mammalian carnivores and ungulates between 1975 and 2013. Species that moved to lower Red List categories, or remained Least Concern, were classified as ‘lower risk'; species that stayed in a threatened category, or moved to a higher category of risk, were classified as ‘higher risk'. Twenty-four predictor variables were used to predict transitions, including intrinsic traits (species biology) and external conditions (human pressure, distribution state and conservation interventions). The model correctly classified up to 90% of all transitions and revealed complex interactions between variables, such as protected areas (PAs) versus human impact. The most important predictors were: past extinction risk, PA extent, geographical range size, body size, taxonomic family and human impact. Our results suggest that monitoring a targeted set of metrics would efficiently identify species facing a higher risk, and could guide the allocation of resources between monitoring species' extinction risk and monitoring external conditions.
Parasites in bloom: flowers aid dispersal and transmission of pollinator parasites within and between bee species
Authors: Graystock Peter , Goulson Dave , Hughes William O. H.
Published: August 2015

The dispersal of parasites is critical for epidemiology, and the interspecific vectoring of parasites when species share resources may play an underappreciated role in parasite dispersal. One of the best examples of such a situation is the shared use of flowers by pollinators, but the importance of flowers and interspecific vectoring in the dispersal of pollinator parasites is poorly understood and frequently overlooked. Here, we use an experimental approach to show that during even short foraging periods of 3 h, three bumblebee parasites and two honeybee parasites were dispersed effectively onto flowers by their hosts, and then vectored readily between flowers by non-host pollinator species. The results suggest that flowers are likely to be hotspots for the transmission of pollinator parasites and that considering potential vector, as well as host, species will be of general importance for understanding the distribution and transmission of parasites in the environment and between pollinators.
Crystal structure of poly[bis(μ-2-amino-4,5-dicyanoimidazolato-κ2N1:N3)-trans-bis(N,N′-dimethylformamide-κO)cadmium]
Authors: Zhu Jin-Li , Jiang Guo -Qing , Guo Xiao-Qing , Tang Yan-Feng , Wang Miao
Published: August 2015

In the title structure, [Cd(C5H2N5)2(C3H7NO)2]nor [Cd(adci)2(DMF)2]n, the Cd2+ion is located on a twofold rotation axis and is six-coordinated in a CdN4O2manner by four imidazole N atoms of four symmetry-related 2-amino-4,5-dicyanoimidazolate (adci) anions in the equatorial plane and by two O atoms of symmetry-relatedN,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) ligands in axial positions. The adci−anions bridge adjacent Cd2+ions [shortest Cd...Cd separation = 6.733 (3) Å] into a layered coordination polymer extending parallel to (001). The primary amino group and the non-coordinating cyano groups of adci−anions are involved in hydrogen-bonding interactions with DMF ligands to stabilize the crystal structure.
Crystal structure of (2-amino-7-methyl-4-oxidopteridine-6-carboxylato-κ3O4,N5,O6)aqua(1,10-phenanthroline-κ2N,N′)zinc trihydrate
Authors: Baisya Siddhartha S. , Ghosh Baidyanath , Roy Parag S.
Published: August 2015

In the title compound, [Zn(C8H5N5O3)(C12H8N2)(H2O)]·3H2O, a tridentate 2-amino-7-methyl-4-oxidopteridine-6-carboxylate ligand, a bidentate ancillary 1,10-phenanthroline (phen) ligand and a water molecule complete a distorted octahedral coordination geometry around the ZnIIatom. The pterin ligand forms two chelate rings. The phen and pterin ring systems are nearly perpendicular [dihedral angle = 85.16 (5)°]. Classical N—H...O, O—H...N and O—H...O hydrogen bonds and weak C—H...O hydrogen bonds link the complex molecules and lattice water molecules into a three-dimensional network. π–π stacking contacts are observed as well, with centroid-to-centroid distances of 3.5679 (14), 3.7004 (14), 3.6641 (15), 3.6974 (13) and 3.3412 (12) Å.
The diagnostic boundary between autism spectrum disorder, intellectual developmental disorder and schizophrenia spectrum disorders
Authors: Bertelli Marco O. , Piva Merli Micaela , Bradley Elspeth , Keller Roberto , Varrucciu Niccolò , Del Furia Chiara , Panocchia Nicola
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– During the last few years the prevalence of autism and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has increased greatly. A recurring issue is the overlap and boundaries between Intellectual Developmental Disorder (IDD), ASD and Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders (SSD). In clinical practice with people with IDD, the alternative or adjunctive diagnosis of ASD or SSD is particularly challenging. The purpose of this paper is to define the boundaries and overlapping clinical characteristics of IDD, ASD and SSD; highlight the most relevant differences in clinical presentation; and provide a clinical framework within which to recognize the impact of IDD and ASD in the diagnosis of SSD.

Design/methodology/approach

– A systematic mapping of the international literature was conducted on the basis of the following questions: first, what are considered to be core and overlapping aspects of IDD, ASD and SSD; second, what are the main issues in clinical practice; and third, can key diagnostic flags be identified to assist in differentiating between the three diagnostic categories?

Findings

– Crucial clinical aspects for the differentiation resulted to be age of onset, interest towards others, main positive symptoms, and anatomical anomalies of the central nervous system. More robust diagnostic criteria and semeiological references are desirable.

Originality/value

– The present literature mapping provides a comprehensive description of the most relevant differences in the clinical presentation of ASD and SSD in persons with IDD.
Is this your cultural place or mine?
Authors: Wilson Doirean , Baruch Yehuda , Boulaye Patti , Hartog Mary
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– Highlights the need to be mindful of the global implications of migration and the ecology of diversity in our economy and organizations. Argues that support and programs for diversity are essential to a sustainable economy and the life chances of all our citizens.

Design/methodology/approach

– Explores diversity from a theoretical perspective and then provides details of one person’s struggle to gain acceptance in an alien culture.

Findings

– Draws attention to the complexities and complications born of globalization and the challenge these pose for multi-national organizations. Advances the view that these complexities also relate to the émigrés who bought with them their different ways of thinking, behaving and speaking that were alien to the indigenous community, and for many still remain an enigma.

Practical implications

– Highlights the need to develop an organization and leadership culture where every manager is an HR manager, assuming shared responsibility for promoting and developing diversity in the organization.

Social implications

– Shows how difficult can be the struggle to gain acceptance for a person newly arriving in a foreign country.

Originality/value

– Combines an academic view of immigration and diversity with one person’s experiences.
Diversity, inclusion and the workplace-equality index: the ingredients for organizational success
Authors: Sposato Martin , Feeke Simon , Anderson-Walsh Paul , Spencer Linbert
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– Presents organizations with issues to consider regarding inclusion and its importance as well as a well-established index that companies can join in order to make sure that equality is not a mere policy but that it counts in reality in every organization.

Design/methodology/approach

– Describes the power that an organization can derive from deliberately nurturing and integrating heterogeneous groups of people so that they fit together.

Findings

– Explains that the best way for an organization to succeed is to combine employee knowledge, skills, judgment and attitudes, alongside fair treatment.

Practical implications

– Provides details of an index that aims to measure the efforts of organizations to tackle discrimination and create an inclusive workplace for lesbian, gay and bisexual employees.

Social implications

– Reveals that the method of the index should allow organizations already successfully implementing diversity strategies acknowledgement while, at the same time, providing inspiration to those beginning to tackle diversity.

Originality/value

– Demonstrates that diversifying the workforce must be accompanied by inclusivity and equality in order to triumph.
Learning and unlearning sexism in the workplace
Authors: Jeffrey Heather L , Beswick Esme , Meade Jessica
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– Looks at the barriers that prevent women achieving equality in the workplace and examines how they may be overcome.

Design/methodology/approach

– Argues that there are two potentially important barriers to creating a more inclusive workplace: Employees may conform to discriminatory practices even though they do not really agree with them just to fit in, and overly competitive environments can create a situation whereby employees are afraid to speak out.

Findings

– Suggests that, in order to tackle these barriers, employers and managers at all levels must call upon insight, use fair judgment and communicate with their female staff to increase understanding of what may be perceived as sexist.

Practical implications

– Urges managers to create a safe space for women to speak out against discrimination as, even though the organization may be aiming at creating an ethical environment, there may be situations that go unnoticed.

Social implications

– Suggests that the working environment may also affect relationships between employees, creating a situation where they may not feel able to speak out.

Originality/value

– Advances the view that managers must use insight and call upon female experience in order to create a more equal environment.
Numerical stability analysis of imperfect single-walled carbon nanotubes under axial compressive loads
Authors: Georgantzinos Stelios K. , Giannopoulos G. I. , Pierou P. K. , Anifantis N. K.
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– A computational structural mechanics approach, based on the exclusive use of standard bar elements is utilized in order to investigate the elastic stability of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) with atom vacancy defects under axial compressive loads. The paper aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

– The proposed model uses three dimensional, two nodded, linear truss finite elements of three degrees of freedom per node to represent the force field appearing between carbon atoms due to the basic interatomic interactions.

Findings

– Numerical results concerning the critical forces which cause instability of pristine nanotubes are compared with corresponding data given in the open literature in the effort to demonstrate the good accuracy of the method. Then, it is assumed that SWCNTs present-specific structural defects defined by their length, width, orientation and longitudinal position. The influence of these four geometric parameters of the imperfections considered on the stability of SWCNTs is investigated in detail and essential conclusions are revealed.

Originality/value

– To the authors’ best knowledge, is the first time that the specific method is introduced for the prediction of buckling behavior of defective SWCNTs. The structural defect here is considered as atoms vacancy that forms a like-crack defect having a specific length, width, orientation and position along the nanotube length.
The transformation of Chinese business ethics in line with its emergence as a global economic leader
Authors: Berger Ron
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– This paper aims to present the evolution of Chinese business ethics and CSR policy. China currently has business ethics and corporate social responsibility (CSR) concerns primarily because its economy is in evolution. As the Chinese economy is in transition from the late 1970s from a command–Communist economy to a more hybrid system Beijing model (a system based on a capitalist market controlled through bureaucracy), much has to be understood if one wants to participate in its vast economic potential.

Design/methodology/approach

– The study is based on the building of a model that depicts the evolution of business ethics in China as a base for further research.

Findings

– With the rapid development of the Chinese economy, opportunities are opening up to Chinese entrepreneurs and connected officials. This has led to money worship and, in some cases, thorough unethical behavior. The uncertain and ever-changing rules of the game generate opportunity for business ethics and CSR problems. This wealth creates temptation and incentives to cut corners to get rich fast. Much research has tried to explain business ethics in China through the understanding of Guanxi (Chinese social network of reciprocal business relations common in Confucian cultures), but in my view, the evolutionary aspect of it is missing to explain the present and future situation. Whereas considerable research has dealt with the growth of Chinese industries in recent years, the key relationship between changes in its economy and shifts in Chinese business ethics has been neglected. This paper presents the evolution of Chinese business ethics and CSR policy.

Originality/value

– The paper illustrates the evolution of Chinese business ethics and how one has to adapt if one wants to succeed in its ever evolving and maturing market. A model is presented that can assist in future research in the area.
Determination of Milk Fat Adulteration with Vegetable Oils and Animal Fats by Gas Chromatographic Analysis
Authors: Kim Jin‐Man , Kim Ha‐Jung , Park Jung‐Min
Published: August 2015

This study assessed the potential application of gas chromatography (GC) in detecting milk fat (MF) adulteration with vegetable oils and animal fats and of characterizing samples by fat source. One hundred percent pure MF was adulterated with different vegetable oils and animal fats at various concentrations (0%, 10%, 30%, 50%, 70%, and 90%). GC was used to obtain the fatty acid (FA) profiles, triacylglycerol (TG) contents, and cholesterol contents. The pure MF and the adulterated MF samples were discriminated based on the total concentrations of saturated FAs and on the 2 major FAs (oleic acid [C18:1n9c] and linoleic acid [C18:2n6c], TGs [C52 and C54], and cholesterol contents using statistical analysis to compared difference. These bio‐markers enabled the detection of as low as 10% adulteration of non‐MF into 100% pure MF. The study demonstrated the high potential of GC to rapidly detect MF adulteration with vegetable and animal fats, and discriminate among commercial butter and milk products according to the fat source. These data can be potentially useful in detecting foreign fats in these butter products. Furthermore, it is important to consider that several individual samples should be analyzed before coming to a conclusion about MF authenticity.
Antimicrobial resistance genes in marine bacteria and human uropathogenic Escherichia coli from a region of intensive aquaculture
Authors: Tomova Alexandra , Ivanova Larisa , Buschmann Alejandro H. , Rioseco Maria Luisa , Kalsi Rajinder K. , Godfrey Henry P. , Cabello Felipe C.
Published: August 2015

Antimicrobials are heavily used in Chilean salmon aquaculture. We previously found significant differences in antimicrobial‐resistant bacteria between sediments from an aquaculture and a non‐aquaculture site. We now show that levels of antimicrobial resistance genes (ARG) are significantly higher in antimicrobial‐selected marine bacteria than in unselected bacteria from these sites. While ARG in tetracycline‐ and florfenicol‐selected bacteria from aquaculture and non‐aquaculture sites were equally frequent, there were significantly more plasmid‐mediated quinolone resistance genes per bacterium and significantly higher numbers of qnrB genes in quinolone‐selected bacteria from the aquaculture site. Quinolone‐resistant urinary Escherichia coli from patients in the Chilean aquacultural region were significantly enriched for qnrB (including a novel qnrB gene), qnrS, qnrA and aac(6′)‐1b, compared with isolates from New York City. Sequences of qnrA1, qnrB1 and qnrS1 in quinolone‐resistant Chilean E. coli and Chilean marine bacteria were identical, suggesting horizontal gene transfer between antimicrobial‐resistant marine bacteria and human pathogens.
Prazosin + Naltrexone Decreases Alcohol Drinking More Effectively Than Does Either Drug Alone in P Rats with a Protracted History of Extensive Voluntary Alcohol Drinking, Dependence, and Multiple Withdrawals
Authors: Rasmussen Dennis D. , Kincaid Carrie L. , Froehlich Janice C.
Published: August 2015

Background

Prazosin (PRZ; an α1‐adrenergic receptor antagonist) and naltrexone (NTX; a nonspecific opioid receptor antagonist) each decrease alcohol drinking when administered to rats selectively bred for high voluntary alcohol drinking (alcohol‐preferring or “P”), and the combination of PRZ + NTX decreases alcohol drinking more effectively than does either drug alone. As drug responsiveness can depend on history of alcohol drinking and dependence, we investigated whether various schedules of PRZ and NTX administration, alone or in combination, are effective in decreasing alcohol drinking in male P rats with a history of protracted voluntary alcohol drinking, dependence, and repeated withdrawals closely resembling human alcoholism.

Methods

Male P rats became alcohol‐dependent during 1 year of ad libitum 24 h/d access to food, water, and 20% alcohol with repetitive temporary alcohol withdrawals. Four sequential studies then addressed effects of oral PRZ (2 mg/kg) and NTX (10 mg/kg), alone or together, on alcohol drinking during: (i) daily alcohol access with daily drug treatment, (ii) intermittent alcohol access with daily drug treatment, (iii) intermittent alcohol access with occasional drug treatment, and (iv) postdeprivation reinstatement of alcohol access.

Results

The combination of PRZ + NTX consistently suppressed alcohol drinking during daily or intermittent alcohol access conditions and when drug treatment was either daily or occasional. PRZ + NTX was consistently more effective than either drug alone. The reduction in alcohol drinking was not due to sedation, motor effects, or malaise.

Conclusions

Both daily and “as‐needed” treatment with PRZ + NTX are highly effective in suppressing daily, intermittent, and postdeprivation alcohol drinking in male P rats with a protracted history of alcohol dependence and repeated withdrawals. This drug combination may be especially effective for treating individuals with long histories of heavy alcohol abuse, dependence, and repeated relapse, as commonly encountered in clinical practice.
Setting evolutionary based conservation priorities for a phylogenetically data‐poor taxonomic group (Scleractinia): response to the commentaries
Authors: Redding D. W. , Curnick D. J. , Head C. E. I. , Huang D. , Crabbe M. J. C. , Gollock M. , Hoeksema B. W. , Johnson K. G. , Jones R. , Koldewey H. J. , Obura D. O. , Rosen B. R. , Smith D. J. , Taylor M. L. , Turner J. R. , Wren S.
Published: August 2015

Read the Feature Paper: Setting evolutionary‐based conservation priorities for a phylogenetically data‐poor taxonomic group (Scleractinia) and the Commentaries on this Feature Paper: Valuing species on the cheap; Conservation prioritization in the context of uncertainty; Regional specific approach is a next step for setting evolutionary‐based conservation priorities in the scleractinian corals
Intravenous tryptophan administration attenuates cortisol secretion induced by intracerebroventricular injection of noradrenaline
Authors: Sutoh Madoka , Kasuya Etsuko , Yayou Ken‐ichi , Ohtani Fumihiro , Kobayashi Yosuke
Published: August 2015

This study was conducted to investigate the possibility of suppression of stress‐induced cortisol (CORT) secretion by tryptophan (TRP) administration and to better understand its regulatory mechanisms by using a noradrenaline (NA) injection into the third ventricle (3V) as a stress model in cattle. A total of 25 Holstein steers with a cannula in the 3V were used. First, the increase in CORT secretion was observed following a NA injection into the 3V in a dose‐dependent manner, verifying the appropriateness of this treatment as a stress model of CORT secretion (Experiment 1). The effect of prior‐administration of TRP into peripheral blood with a dose that has been demonstrated to increase brain 5‐hydroxytryptamine levels on the elevation of plasma CORT induced by NA or corticotropin‐releasing hormone (CRH) was then examined (Experiment 2). The prior administration of TRP suppressed NA‐induced, but not CRH‐induced, CORT elevation. These results suggest that an increase in TRP absorption into peripheral blood could suppress the stress‐induced CORT secretion in cattle via the attenuation of the stimulatory effect of NA on the hypothalamic CRH release.
Is transperineal prostate biopsy more accurate than transrectal biopsy in determining final Gleason score and clinical risk category? A comparative analysis
Authors: Scott Susan , Samaratunga Hemamali , Chabert Charles , Breckenridge Michelle , Gianduzzo Troy
Published: August 2015

Objectives

To assess the degree of upgrading and increase in clinical risk category of transperineal template biopsy (TTB) compared with transrectal ultrasonography‐guided prostate biopsy (TRUSB). Upgrading of TRUSB Gleason grade and sum after radical prostatectomy (RP) is well recognised. TTB may offer a more thorough mapping of the prostate than TRUSB, as well as a more accurate assessment of the tumour. In this retrospective cohort study of prospectively collected data, we compare the initial TRUSB and TTB Gleason grade and sum with the final assessment at RP.

Patients and Methods

Following Ethics Committee approval, 431 laparoscopic and robotic RP specimens of two urologists, fellowship‐trained in minimally invasive RP, were examined in the private sector between April 2009 and October 2013. Final RP Gleason grade and sum were compared with the initial prostate biopsy. All pathological assessments were performed by a dedicated uropathology unit, experienced in prostate pathology. Upgrading was defined either as an increase in the primary Gleason grade, or as identification of a higher grade tertiary pattern at final RP analysis. Increase in clinical risk category was defined as an increase from low‐ (Gleason ≤6), to either intermediate‐ (Gleason 7) or high‐risk disease (Gleason 8–10); or as an increase from intermediate‐ to high‐risk disease. The chi‐squared test was used to compare categorical variables, while the Wilcoxon rank sum was used for continuous quantitative variables.

Results

The 431 RP specimens comprised 283 in which the prostate cancer was diagnosed at TRUSB and 148 diagnosed at TTB. There was no difference between TRUSB and TTB in mean prostate weight (46.4 vs 44.2 g), final RP pathological stage (pT2: 187 vs 102; pT3 97 vs 48; P = 0.65) or mean tumour volume (2.15 vs 2.14 mL). Overall, 33.22% of TRUSB and 30.41% of TTB were upgraded, which was not significantly different (P = 0.55). Similarly there was no difference in whether there was an increase to a higher Gleason sum (TRUSB 23.3% vs TTB 20.9%; P = 0.57). TTB was more reflective of the actual clinical risk category, with TRUSB more likely to show an increase in clinical risk (TRUSB 22.3% vs TTB 14.2%; P = 0.04).

Conclusions

In this series, TTB more accurately predicted clinical risk category than TRUSB. TTB should be considered before active surveillance, to ensure that occult higher risk disease has not been under diagnosed. Upgrading and increase in clinical risk category was relatively common in each group highlighting the need for improved pretreatment staging accuracy.
A phylogeny of fossil and living neocoleoid cephalopods
Authors: Sutton Mark , Perales‐Raya Catalina , Gilbert Isabel
Published: August 2015

Coleoid cephalopod phylogeny is well studied via both molecular and morphological data, yet although some agreement has been reached (e.g. that extant Decapodiformes and Octopoda are monophyletic) many details remain poorly resolved. Fossil coleoids, for which much data exists, have hitherto not been incorporated into analyses. Their inclusion is highly desirable for the support of neontological phylogenies, to better reconstruct character‐state histories, and to investigate the placement of the fossil groups themselves. In this study we present and analyse a morphological data matrix including both extinct and extant taxa. Homology assumptions in our data are discussed. Our results are presented both with and without the constraint of a monophyletic Decapodiformes imposed. When analysed with this constraint our results are strikingly congruent with those from molecular phylogeny, for instance placing Idiosepius in a basal position within Decapodiformes, and recovering Oegopsida and Bathyteuthoidea (although as grades). Our results support an Octopodiformes clade (“vampire squid” Vampyroteuthis as sister to Octopoda) and an octopodiform interpretation for most fossil coleoids. They suggest the fossil sister taxon to the octopods to be Plesioteuthididae. Most fossil higher taxa are supported, although many genera, especially within suborder Teudopseina, appear para‐ or polyphyletic.
Perineural growth of benign cutaneous sweat gland tumors: a hitherto unrecognized phenomenon unassociated with malignancy
Authors: Luzar Boštjan , Shanesmith Rebecca , Calonje Eduardo
Published: August 2015

Background

Cutaneous intraneural reactive epithelial proliferations mimicking malignancy include epithelial sheath neuroma, re‐excision perineural invasion and reactive neuroepithelial aggregates. Nevertheless, intraneural growth of benign sweat gland tumors has not been reported before.

Aims

To report a predominantly intraneural proliferation of morphologically bland sweat gland tumors, describe their clinicopathological features and correlate them with survival.

Results

We analyzed a spiradenoma and a hidradenoma with a prominent intraneural growth, occurring on the back of the 19‐year‐old woman and on the arm of the 53‐year‐old woman. Both lesions presented as a painful and slightly raised papule. After complete excision, an uneventful clinical course was observed during the follow‐up period of 52 and 54 months. Pathologically, the most striking feature was an almost exclusive intraneural growth within the peripheral nerves of the deep dermis and subcutis.

Conclusion

We report for the first time the predominantly intraneural growth of benign sweat gland tumors. Although their histogenesis is unknown, perineural displacement due to previous surgery or trauma, as well as development from intraneural embryological epithelial remnants remains possibilities. Long‐term follow‐up of our patients suggests that intraneural growth of otherwise bland sweat gland tumors does not signify malignancy. Complete excision appears to be sufficient treatment procedure.
Thermodynamic constraints on the utility of ecological stoichiometry for explaining global biogeochemical patterns
Authors: Helton Ashley M. , Ardón Marcelo , Bernhardt Emily S.
Published: August 2015

Carbon and nitrogen cycles are coupled through both stoichiometric requirements for microbial biomass and dissimilatory metabolic processes in which microbes catalyse reduction‐oxidation reactions. Here, we integrate stoichiometric theory and thermodynamic principles to explain the commonly observed trade‐off between high nitrate and high organic carbon concentrations, and the even stronger trade‐off between high nitrate and high ammonium concentrations, across a wide range of aquatic ecosystems. Our results suggest these relationships are the emergent properties of both microbial biomass stoichiometry and the availability of terminal electron acceptors. Because elements with multiple oxidation states (i.e. nitrogen, manganese, iron and sulphur) serve as both nutrients and sources of chemical energy in reduced environments, both assimilative demand and dissimilatory uses determine their concentrations across broad spatial gradients. Conceptual and quantitative models that integrate rather than independently examine thermodynamic, stoichiometric and evolutionary controls on biogeochemical cycling are essential for understanding local to global biogeochemical patterns.
Geography and climate change: Presidential Address and record of the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG) AGM 2015
Authors: Rees Judith
Published: August 2015

In her third and final address as President of the Royal Geographical Society (with the Institute of British Geographers), Dame Professor Judith Rees outlines the importance of geography in understanding some of the problems surrounding control of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and the impacts of and adaptation to climate change. Her comments are followed by a summary of the proceedings of the Society's 2015 Annual General Meeting, including reflections on 2014 activities.
Primary giant cell carcinomas of the lung: a clinicopathological and immunohistochemical analysis of seven cases
Authors: Weissferdt Annikka , Moran Cesar A
Published: August 2015

Aims

Seven cases of primary giant cell carcinomas of the lung are presented.

Methods and results

The patients were five women and two men between the ages of 48 and 72 years (average: 63 years). Clinically, the patients presented with symptoms of cough, chest pain, dyspnoea and general malaise. Diagnostic imaging revealed the presence of intrapulmonary masses; five tumours were located in the right lung and two in the left, with a general predilection for the upper lobes. All patients underwent surgical resection and staging of their tumours. Five patients were staged as T2 and T3 with nodal metastasis, while two patients in stages T1 and T3, respectively, had no nodal disease. Histologically, the giant cells were typed as syncytiotrophoblast‐like or ‘null type’, according to the expression of β‐human chorionic gonadotrophin or expression of cytokeratin alone. Follow‐up information revealed that five patients died within a period of 1–3 years, while two patients remain alive between 1 and 3 years.

Conclusions

The cases presented herein highlight the importance of separating these tumours from the group of sarcomatoid carcinomas and analysing them carefully by immumohistochemical means, as we believe that these neoplasms represent a specific tumour entity.