bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of combination of high-intensity ultrasound treatment and dextran glycosylation on structural and interfacial properties of buckwheat protein isolates
Authors: Xue Feng , Wu Zhoushan , Tong Jinrong , Zheng Jialun , Li Chen
Published: August 2017

This study investigated the effects of high-intensity ultrasound and glycosylation on the structural and interfacial properties of the Maillard reaction conjugates of buckwheat protein isolate (BPI). The covalent attachment of dextran to BPI was confirmed by examination of the Fourier-transform infrared spectra. Emulsifying properties of the conjugates obtained by ultrasound treatment were improved as compared to those obtained by classical heating. Structural feature analyses suggested that conjugates obtained by ultrasound treatment had less α-helix and more random coil, higher surface hydrophobicity and less compact tertiary structure as compared to those obtained by classical heating. The surface activity measurement revealed that the BPI–dextran conjugates obtained by ultrasound treatment were closely packed and that each molecule occupied a small area of the interface. Combination of ultrasonic treatment and glycosylation was proved to be an efficient way to develop new stabilizers and thickening agents for food in this study.
Resistance spot welding of metal/carbon-fibre-reinforced plastics and applying silane coupling treatment
Authors: Nagatsuka Kimiaki , Xiao Bolyu , Wu Lihui , Nakata Kazuhiro , Saeki Shuhei , Kitamoto Yamato , Iwamoto Yoshiaki
Published: August 2017

Dissimilar materials joining of SUS304 and carbon-fibre-reinforced plastics consisting of short fibres and thermoplastics was performed. The materials were joined by series resistance spot welding. The electrodes were pressed on the metal plate of the lap joint of metal/carbon-fibre-reinforced plastics. The SUS304 plate was heated by resistance heating, causing the thermoplastic near the interface to melt slightly because of heat conduction. SUS304 could be joined directly to carbon-fibre-reinforced polyamide and modified polypropylene, but not to polyphenylene sulphide. The joining area increased with an increase in the welding current and welding time, so did the tensile shear fracture load. Furthermore, the silane coupling agent treatment of SUS304 was highly effective in increasing the joining strength.
Metastatic state of parent cells influences the uptake and functionality of prostate cancer cell‐derived extracellular vesicles
Authors: Lázaro‐Ibáñez Elisa , Neuvonen Maarit , Takatalo Maarit , Thanigai Arasu Uma , Capasso Cristian , Cerullo Vincenzo , Rhim Johng S. , Rilla Kirsi , Yliperttula Marjo , Siljander Pia R.‐M.
Published: August 2017

Extracellular vesicles (EVs), including microvesicles and exosomes, mediate intercellular signalling which has a profound role in cancer progression and in the development of metastasis. Internalisation of EVs can prompt functional changes in the recipient cells, the nature of which depends on the molecular composition and the cargo of the EVs. We hypothesised that the metastatic stage of cancerous parent cells would determine the uptake efficacy and the subsequent functional effects of the respective cancer cell‐derived EVs. To address this question, we compared the internalisation of EVs derived from two metastatic site‐derived prostate cancer cell lines (PC‐3 and LNCaP), human telomerase reverse transcriptase immortalised primary malignant prostate epithelial cells (RC92a/hTERT), and a benign epithelial prostate cell line (PNT2). EVs isolated from the metastatic site‐derived PC‐3 and LNCaP cells were more efficiently internalised by the PC‐3 and PNT2 cells compared to the EVs from the primary malignant RC92a/hTERT cells or the benign PNT2 cells, as determined by high content microscopy, confocal microscopy, and flow cytometry. EV uptake was also influenced by the phase of the cell cycle, so that an increased EV‐derived fluorescence signal was observed in the cells at the G2/M phase compared to the G0/G1 or S phases. Finally, differences were also observed in the functions of the recipient cells based on the EV source. Proliferation of PNT2 cells and to a lesser extent also PC‐3 cells was enhanced particularly by the EVs from the metastatic‐site‐derived prostate cancer cells in comparison to the EVs from the benign cells or primary cancer cells, whereas migration of PC‐3 cells was enhanced by all cancerous EVs.
The Impact of Crowding on Calorie Consumption
Authors: Hock Stefan J , Bagchi Rajesh
Published: August 2017

Consumer behavior is often influenced by subtle environmental cues, such as temperature, color, lighting, scent, or sound. We explore the effects of a not-so-subtle cue—human crowding—on calorie consumption. Although crowding is an omnipresent factor, it has received little attention in the marketing literature. We present six studies showing that crowding increases calorie consumption. These effects occur because crowding increases distraction, which hampers cognitive thinking and evokes more affective processing. When consumers process information affectively, they consume more calories. We show the specific reason for the increase in calories. When given a choice between several different options, people select and eat higher-calorie items, but when presented with only one option, people eat more of the same food item. We document this process, rule out alternative explanations, and discuss theoretical and managerial implications.
Endometrial Thickness in Women Undergoing IUI With Ovarian Stimulation. How Thick Is Too Thin? A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Weiss N. S. , van Vliet M. N. , Limpens J. , Hompes P. G. A. , Lambalk C. B. , Mochtar M. H. , van der Veen F. , Mol B. W. J. , van Wely M.
Published: August 2017

(Abstracted from Hum Reprod 2017;32:1009–1018)

A simple, noninvasive first-line treatment for women diagnosed as having unexplained or mild male subfertility is intrauterine insemination with ovarian stimulation (IUI-OS). The drugs most frequently used for OS are antiestrogens, such as clomiphene citrate (CC), aromatase inhibitors, or gonodotrophins.
Treatment of Subclinical Hypothyroidism or Hypothyroxinemia in Pregnancy
Authors: Casey Brian M. , Thom Elizabeth A. , Peaceman Alan M. , Varner Michael W. , Sorokin Yoram , Hirtz Deborah G. , Reddy Uma M. , Wapner Ronald J. , Thorp John M. , Saade George , Tita Alan T. N. , Rouse Dwight J. , Sibai Baha , Iams Jay D. , Mercer Brian M. , Tolosa Jorge , Caritis Steve N. , VanDorsten J. Peter
Published: August 2017

(Abstracted from N Engl J Med 2017;376:815–825)

Subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) during pregnancy has been associated with impaired fetal neuropsychological development. Several organizations recommend treatment of subclinical thyroid dysfunction, although the Controlled Antenatal Thyroid Screening study found mothers who were treated with levothyroxine for hypothyroidism or hypothyroxinemia did not have children with improved cognitive function compared with controls.
Exercise During Pregnancy and Risk of Preterm Birth in Overweight and Obese Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Magro-Malosso Elena Rita , Saccone Gabriele , Di Mascio Daniele , Di Tommaso Mariarosaria , Berghella Vincenzo
Published: August 2017

(Abstracted from Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2017;96:263–273)

Maternal overweight and obesity are associated with maternal complications, as well as adverse fetal outcomes. These risks may be reduced by diet, exercise, and behavior changes.
Combination Antipsychotic Therapies
Authors: Foster Adriana , Buckley Peter , Lauriello John , Looney Stephen , Schooler Nina
Published: August 2017

Background

Combination antipsychotics (CAs) are prescribed in schizophrenia despite limited evidence of efficacy. To explore the effect of switching from CA to monotherapy, we performed an exploratory analysis of the PROACTIVE (Preventing Relapse in Schizophrenia: Oral Antipsychotics Compared with Injectables: Evaluating Efficacy) study data, in which 305 patients with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder were followed for 30 months after randomization to long-acting injectable (LAI) risperidone or second-generation oral antipsychotic (OA).

Methods

Patients who entered the PROACTIVE study on CA (n = 50), LAI (n = 20), or OA (n = 206) were compared in terms of time to relapse and clinical measures.

Findings

The OA group had significantly fewer hospitalizations than the CA group (P = 0.009) at baseline. In the CA group, 68% patients relapsed versus 53% in the LAI, and 52% in the OA groups. Although there was no significant difference in the relapse rate among groups on χ2 test (χ2 = 3.85, P = 0.146), the log-rank test showed a significant difference among the groups in time to first relapse (χ2 = 6.81, P = 0.033), with significantly longer time to relapse in the OA group (mean, 562.8 days) than in the CA group (mean, 409.5; P = 0.011). The LAI group's mean time to first relapse (594 days) was not significantly different from the other groups. However, after adjusting for number of hospitalizations, group was no longer significant (hazard ratio, 1.541; P = 0.052).

Implications

Based on our exploratory analysis, taking antipsychotic combinations predicts earlier relapse and calls for additional treatment guidance in schizophrenia.
Lidocaine spray as a local analgesic for intravenous cannulation: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Datema Joris , Veldhuis Jeroen , Bekhof Jolita
Published: August 2017

Objectives

Lidocaine spray is an effective analgesic of mucous membranes. Lidocaine spray is also used during intravenous (i.v.) cannulation, especially in children. However, the analgesic effect of lidocaine spray during i.v. cannulation has not been studied. We aimed to assess the analgesic effectiveness of lidocaine spray during i.v. cannulation.

Methods

We conducted a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial in seventeen healthy adults who received an i.v. cannulation in the right and left elbow, respectively, where the order of application of 60 mg lidocaine spray (Xylocaine 10% pump spray) or placebo spray (chlorhexidine gluconate 0.5% in 70% alcohol base) before i.v. cannulation was randomized. Thus, each participant had an i.v. cannulation in both arms: one with lidocaine spray and the other with placebo spray. The primary outcome was pain intensity assessed by a 100 mm Visual Analogue Scale. The secondary outcomes were adverse events, success rate of i.v. cannulation and the degree of difficulty of i.v. cannulation as estimated by the nurse performing the i.v cannulation.

Results

The pain score (Visual Analogue Scale) during i.v. cannulation was 18.0 mm (interquartile range: 5.0–34.5 mm) after lidocaine application and 21.0 mm (interquartile range: 11.0–30.5) after placebo application. These scores were not significantly different (95% confidence interval: −9.0–11.0, P=0.698). No adverse events occurred and all i.v. cannulations were successful at first attempt.

Conclusion

Local administration of lidocaine is not effective in reducing pain during i.v. cannulation.
A Multifaceted Model to Evaluate Interprofessional Education in Clinical Nurse Specialist Programs
Authors: Becker Heather , Timmerman Gayle M. , Delville Carole , Seo EunJin
Published: August 2017

Purpose:

Preparing students to engage in team-based healthcare is a major focus of clinical nurse specialist (CNS) education programs. A robust evaluation plan is needed to monitor achievement of key outcomes in this complex undertaking.

Description:

Informed by the work of Kirkpatrick and Stufflebeam, an evaluation model that incorporates multiple information sources about process and outcomes related to interprofessional (IP) education is proposed.

Outcome:

Improvements in scores on attitude and competency measures suggest that the program had the desired effects on students' attitudes and self-efficacy for IP collaboration and was validated by faculty clinical observations of IP communication and teamwork. Moreover, students indicated at both graduation and at 1-year follow-up surveys that they were prepared to function on IP teams, providing further evidence that the clinical nurse specialist (CNS) program prepared them in this key area of nursing practice.

Conclusion:

The evaluation plan guided the collection of quantitative and qualitative information that faculty could use to refine the CNS program. Congruent with the CNS role as change agents, future model refinements should incorporate systems change activities.
Enhancing Key Competencies of Health Professionals in the Assessment and Care of Adults at Risk of Suicide Through Education and Technology
Authors: Ryan Kathryn , Tindall Claudia , Strudwick Gillian
Published: August 2017

Purpose:

This article describes efforts undertaken to improve the clinical competencies of health professionals in the area of suicide risk assessment, documentation, and care planning.

Description of the Project:

Best practices that fit the mental health and addictions setting were identified from the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario Best Practice Guideline on Assessment and Care of Adults at Risk for Suicidal Ideation and Behaviour. A variety of methods were used to implement the guidelines at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. These included 3 in-person educational modules, an e-learning module, and the creation of an electronic health record suicide risk assessment documentation form.

Outcome:

Results showed that interprofessional team members improved their suicide awareness and increased their confidence and knowledge in suicide risk assessment and the identification of interventions for clients at risk. Organizational level performance and quality improvement activities after implementation of the education and the electronic suicide risk assessment documentation form are being implemented through a collaboration between performance improvement, clinical education and informatics, and professional practice.

Conclusion:

The success of an interprofessional educational program of this nature is dependent on the collaboration of a number of stakeholders from a variety of areas of the organization.
Acellular Dermal Matrix in Immediate Expander/Implant Breast Reconstruction: A Multicenter Assessment of Risks and Benefits
Authors: Sorkin Michael , Qi Ji , Kim Hyungjin M. , Hamill Jennifer B. , Kozlow Jeffrey H. , Pusic Andrea L. , Wilkins Edwin G.
Published: August 2017

Background:

Acellular dermal matrix has gained widespread acceptance in immediate expander/implant reconstruction because of perceived benefits, including improved expansion dynamics and superior aesthetic results. Although previous investigators have evaluated its risks, few studies have assessed the impact of acellular dermal matrix on other outcomes, including patient-reported measures.

Methods:

The Mastectomy Reconstruction Outcomes Consortium Study used a prospective cohort design to evaluate patients undergoing postmastectomy reconstruction from 10 centers and 58 participating surgeons between 2012 and 2015. The analysis focused on women undergoing immediate tissue expander reconstruction following mastectomies for cancer treatment or prophylaxis. Medical records and patient-reported outcome data, using the BREAST-Q and Numeric Pain Rating Scale instruments, were reviewed. Bivariate analyses and mixed-effects regression models were applied.

Results:

A total of 1297 patients were evaluated, including 655 (50.5 percent) with acellular dermal matrix and 642 (49.5 percent) without acellular dermal matrix. Controlling for demographic and clinical covariates, no significant differences were seen between acellular dermal matrix and non–acellular dermal matrix cohorts in overall complications (OR, 1.21; p = 0.263), major complications (OR, 1.43; p = 0.052), wound infections (OR, 1.49; p = 0.118), or reconstructive failures (OR, 1.55; p = 0.089) at 2 years after reconstruction. There were also no significant differences between the cohorts in the time to expander/implant exchange (p = 0.78). No significant differences were observed in patient-reported outcome scores, including satisfaction with breasts, psychosocial well-being, sexual well-being, physical well-being, and postoperative pain.

Conclusions:

In this multicenter, prospective analysis, the authors found no significant acellular dermal matrix effects on complications, time to exchange, or patient-reported outcome in immediate expander/implant breast reconstruction. Further studies are needed to develop criteria for more selective use of acellular dermal matrix in these patients.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Therapeutic, II.
Subependymal Heterotopia Mimicking Mass in Conventional Magnetic Resonance Imaging: Demonstration With 3T Advanced Neuroimages
Authors: Aktas Filiz , Ogul Hayri
Published: August 2017

The authors reported a rare patient with large subependymal heterotopia mimicking cerebral neoplasia. A 22-year-old female was admitted with a history of right-sided paresthesia accompanied by progressive headache. Cerebral magnetic resonance (MR) imaging showed a large solid lesion in the left frontal lobe. Advanced MR images proved that the lesion was compatible with subependymal heterotopia. Large subependymal heterotopia may mimick cerebral neoplasia.
Classification of the Residual Cranial Defects and Selection of Reconstruction Materials
Authors: Sahoo Nanda Kishore , N Mohan Rangan , Tomar Kapil , Bhat Sudarshan
Published: August 2017

The cranial defects are complex in nature and are due to various causes. Therefore, there is a need for a common term of reference to these defects. This requirement stood as a prime reason for proposing a classification system for cranial defects. The classification is based on 2 decades of experience in cranioplasty. This efficient and simple way of representation would fill the existing lacunae for a systematic communication on cranial defects. Over the ages the evolution of reconstruction and grafting had undergone a massive progress. Therefore, it is essential to enumerate all available graft and bio-materials for restoring the cranial defects. The aetiology for these defects, age and sex of the patient, site and size of the defect, associated systemic conditions, cost factor, and operator's choice are the factors that play key role in the selection of the reconstructive material. This article discusses on these factors in cranioplasty. High success rate with excellent function and cosmetic outcome in using a variety of materials, as shared in this article. The advantages of autografts cannot be matched by any existing alloplast. However, in case of larger defects, for a better cosmetic outcome and to reduce the donor site morbidity, alloplasts are the most widely preferred material of choice.
Environmental deformations dynamically shift the grid cell spatial metric
Authors: Keinath Alexandra T , Epstein Russell A , Balasubramanian Vijay
Published: August 2017

Environmental deformations induce stereotyped distortions in the time-averaged activity of grid and place cells. We hypothesized that these effects are partly driven by border cell inputs which reset the spatial phase of grid cells, maintaining learned relationships between grid phase and environmental boundaries without altering inherent grid scale. A computational model of this mechanism reproduced diverse distortions during deformations, including scale-dependent and local distortions of grid fields, and stretched, duplicated, and fractured place fields. This model predicted a striking new effect: dynamic, history-dependent, boundary-tethered ‘shifts’ in grid phase during deformations. We reanalyzed two rodent grid cell rescaling datasets and found direct evidence of these shifts, which have not been previously reported and contribute to the appearance of rescaling. These results demonstrate that the grid representation of geometrically deformed environments is not fixed, but rather dynamically changes with the specific experience of the navigator.
DNA-PK facilitates HIV transcription by regulating the activity of RNA polymerase II and the recruitment of transcription machinery at HIV LTR
Authors: Zicari Sonia , Sahu Geetaram , Dubrovsky Larisa , Sun Lin , Yue Han , Jada Tejaswi , Ochem Alex , Bukrinsky Michael , Simon Gary , Tyagi Mudit
Published: August 2017

Despite the use of highly effective antiretroviral therapy (HAART), the presence of latent or transcriptionally silent proviruses prevents cure and eradication of HIV infection. These transcriptionally silent proviruses are well protected from both the immune system and HAART regimens. Thus, in order to tackle the problem of latent HIV reservoirs, it is a prerequisite to define all the pathways that regulate HIV transcription. We have previously reported that DNA-PK facilitates HIV transcription by interacting with the RNA polymerase II (RNAP II) complex recruited at HIV LTR. To extend those studies further, here we demonstrate that DNA-PK promotes HIV transcription by supporting it at several stages, including initiation, pause-release and elongation. We discovered that DNA-PK increases phosphorylation of RNAP II C-terminal domain (CTD) at serine 5 (Ser5) and serine 2 (Ser2) by both directly catalyzing and by augmenting the recruitment of P-TEFb at HIV LTR. We found that DNA-PK facilitates the establishment of euchromatin structure at HIV LTR, which further supports HIV gene expression. DNA-PK inhibition or knockdown leads to the severe impairment of HIV gene expression and conversion of euchromatin to heterochromatin at HIV LTR. It also profoundly restricts HIV replication and reactivation of latent provirus. DNA-PK promotes the recruitment of TRIM28 at LTR and facilitates the release of paused RNAP II through TRIM28 phosphorylation. The results were reproduced in cell lines belonging to both lymphoid and myeloid lineages and were confirmed in primary CD4+T cells and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from HIV-infected patients.

IMPORTANCE:

Our results reveal the important role of DNA-PK in supporting HIV transcription, replication and latent proviral reactivation. Intriguingly, this study sheds light on an important pathway that affects HIV gene expression. These findings provide strong rationale for developing and using transcriptional inhibitors, such as DNA-PK inhibitors, as supplement to HAART regimens in order to further enhance their effectiveness and to suppress toxicity due to HIV proteins.
Accelerated human liver progenitor generation from pluripotent stem cells by inhibiting formation of unwanted lineages
Authors: Ang Lay Teng , Tan Antson Kiat Yee , Autio Matias Ilmari , Goh Joanne Su-Hua , Choo Siew Hua , Lee Kian Leong , Tan Jianmin , Pan Bangfen , Hui Lee Jane Jia , Xin Yeo Isabelle Kai , Yee Wong Chloe Jin , Lum Jen Jen , Loh Chet Hong , Lim Ying Yan , Li Oh Jueween Ling , Lynn Chia Cheryl Pei , Chen Angela , Chen Qing Feng , Weissman Irving L. , Loh Kyle M. , Lim Bing
Published: August 2017

Despite decisive progress in differentiating pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) into diverse cell-types, the often-lengthy differentiation and functional immaturity of such cell-types remain pertinent issues. Here we address the first challenge of prolonged differentiation in the generation of hepatocyte-like cells from PSCs. We delineate a roadmap describing the extracellular signals controlling six sequential branching lineage choices leading from pluripotency to endoderm, foregut, and finally, liver progenitors. By blocking formation of unwanted cell-types at each lineage juncture and manipulating temporally-dynamic signals, we accelerated generation of 89.0±3.1% AFP+human liver bud progenitors and 87.3±9.4% ALBUMIN+hepatocyte-like cells by days 6 and 18 of PSC differentiation, respectively. 81.5±3.2% of hepatocyte-like cells expressed metabolic enzyme FAH (as assayed by a new knock-in reporter line) and improved short-term survival in theFah-/-Rag2-/-Il2rg-/-mouse model of liver failure. Collectively the timed signaling interventions indicated by this developmental roadmap enable accelerated production of human liver progenitors from PSCs.
Estimating the absolute flux distribution for a synchrotron X-ray beam using ionization-chamber measurements with various filters
Authors: Stevenson Andrew W. , Di Lillo Francesca
Published: August 2017

It is shown that an extensive set of accurate ionization-chamber measurements with a primary polychromatic synchrotron X-ray beam transmitted through various filter combinations/thicknesses can be used to quite effectively estimate the absolute flux distribution. The basic technique is simple but the `inversion' of the raw data to extract the flux distribution is a fundamentally ill-posed problem. It is demonstrated, using data collected at the Imaging and Medical Beamline (IMBL) of the Australian Synchrotron, that the absolute flux can be quickly and reliably estimated if a suitable choice of filters is made. Results are presented as a function of the magnetic field (from 1.40 to 4.00 T) of the superconducting multi-pole wiggler insertion device installed at IMBL. A non-linear least-squares refinement of the data is used to estimate the incident flux distribution and then comparison is made with calculations from the programsSPECTRA,XOPandspec.exe. The technique described is important not only in estimating flux itself but also for a variety of other, derived, X-ray properties such as beam quality, power density and absorbed-dose rate. The applicability of the technique with a monochromatic X-ray beam for which there is significant harmonic contamination is also demonstrated. Whilst absolute results can also be derived in this monochromatic beam case, relative (integrated) flux values are sufficient for our primary aim of establishing reliable determinations of the percentages of the various harmonic components.
Salad cream formulated with tofu and coconut oil
Authors: Sirison Jiraporn , Rirermwong Awika , Tanwisuit Nattawadee , Meaksan Taviyaporn
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a new salad cream formulation from a mixture of tofu and coconut oil for replacement of egg yolk and soy oil, respectively.

Design/methodology/approach

A salad cream formulation mainly composing of edible oil, egg and vinegar was formulated. Ratios of egg yolk and soy oil were replaced by tofu and coconut oil, respectively. The formulated salad creams were determined for pH, color, viscosity, protein and fat. Sensory acceptances of formulated products was evaluated by using a seven-point hedonic scale test and untrained panelists (n=30). The formulated salad creams were stored in a refrigerator for 14 days and determined for pH, color and viscosity.

Findings

The results showed that the formulated salad creams using the mixture of 50 percent tofu and 50 percent egg yolk (RE) by weight of egg yolk ratio in control presented 4.25+0.01 of pH which was comparable to control. The highest scores in the sensory test were obtained in the formula using 37 percent coconut oil by weight of salad cream. The formulated salad creams using tofu and coconut oil (REC) presented 4.42+0.03 of pH, 4.25+0.05 cm. of viscosity, and 87.36+0.44 (L), −1.13+0.04 (a), 16.32+0.22 (b) of color values. Protein and fat contents were 4.79 and 27.59 percent (w/w) in the REC, respectively. After storage under refrigerated, pH, color and viscosity of the modified product were less changed.

Originality/value

Replacement of egg yolk and soy oil with tofu and coconut oil in salad creams was feasible. The REC was less changed in its quality both fresh and after storage. It was accepted in sensory evaluation. The REC could prepare at home and being a food choice for consumers.
The use of electronic resources by undergraduate students at the University of Venda, South Africa
Authors: Tlakula Tintswalo Pascalis , Fombad Madeleine
Published: August 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to establish the level of use of the electronic resources at the University of Venda, which is one of the previously disadvantaged universities in South Africa. It identifies the different electronic resources used at the university, determines the level of awareness and training in the use of these resources and suggests ways in which electronic resources may be enhanced. The rapid changes in the information and communication technology (ICTs) have influenced service delivery in academic libraries in terms of how information is gathered, accessed, retrieved and used. Hence, electronic resources are invaluable research tools in academic libraries in the twenty-first century.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative research methodology was adopted, and semi-structured interviews were conducted with each participant to get in-depth information. The target population was all third-year students registered with the School of Human and Social Sciences at the University of Venda. The third year undergraduate students from this particular school where chosen because statistics revealed that these students where ranked among the top in the use of computers.

Findings

The findings revealed that the level of usage of these resources by undergraduate students is elementary and limited to SABINET and EBSCO host. Undergraduate student’s level of awareness of the different electronic resources is low. They confused electronic resources to Web-based internet sources. It also revealed that the level of awareness and training in the use of these resources is still generic, as training is mostly a once off orientation at the first year.

Research limitations/implications

This paper focuses on third year undergraduate students who were using computers because the researchers were interested in finding out whether students using computers were also using electronic resources. It excluded other profiles such as age, gender and computer usage behaviour of electronic resources.

Practical implications

Adequate use and knowledge of electronic resources at universities is instrumental towards realisation of the country’s ICT Strategy and the outcome-based education (OBE) model of teaching movement. Suggestions are made to the university, the university library, university librarians and the Library Association of South Africa on how to enhance the use of electronic resources.

Originality/value

It establishes the level of use of electronic resources in one of South African historically disadvantaged universities, a point of contact to other previously South African disadvantaged universities and make suggestions on how electronic resources may be enhanced. It adds to the body of knowledge on the use of electronic resources in academic libraries in South African universities.
Older LGB&T housing in the UK: challenges and solutions
Authors: Wathern Tina , Green Robert William
Published: August 2017

Purpose

This paper considers the challenges and solutions in relation to older lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans (LGB&T) housing in the UK. The purpose of this paper is to identify the key housing issues and concerns affecting older LGB&T people in the UK, and ways in which these might be addressed.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a practical discussion which focusses on the issues of policies and provision in relation to older LGB&T housing in the UK, both specialist and mainstream housing.

Findings

There is a growing body of literature from both the voluntary sector and academic researchers highlighting the housing issues affecting older LGB&T people. There is a need for both specialist and appropriate mainstream housing provision. However, policy and funding issues constrain the creation and/or development of such provision.

Practical implications

Policy makers and housing providers in the UK need to address, and meet, the diverse housing needs of older LGB&T people.

Social implications

Until their housing needs are met, many older LGB&T people remain concerned about their housing futures, and may end up living in housing which is not their preference and which is not suitable for them.

Originality/value

This paper is the first to provide a comprehensive overview of the work of Stonewall Housing’s network for older LGB&T people, and the challenges and solutions which have been identified in relation to their housing issues and concerns.
Quality control of constructions: European trends and developments
Authors: Meijer Frits , Visscher Henk
Published: August 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to evaluate the quality control systems for constructions in seven countries in Europe with the purpose to trace innovative approaches and best practices that can serve as examples for other countries.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on a series of research projects carried out over a number of years. The research results were updated in 2016 with a desktop research project in seven European countries. The results from this latest project form the heart of this paper. The information is organised into tables that describe and analyse the main features of the quality control systems of the countries (e.g. scope, focus and main characteristics of the procedures and quality demands on building professionals).

Findings

Several similar trends can be recognised in the quality control systems of the various European Union (EU) countries. Quality control is getting more and more privatised and the control framework is setting checks and balances throughout the construction process. Other findings are that scope and focus of the statutory control is unbalanced. Within the control processes emphasis is put on the safety aspects of complex constructions. Far fewer demands are made on the quality of the builders. Re-orientation of the building regulatory framework seems to be needed.

Research limitations/implications

The paper only focusses on European countries where private quality control is established and on selected topics. The findings are based on desktop research and not on the practical experiences of the stakeholders involved in the countries studied.

Practical implications

The paper draws some important recommendations for policymakers in the building regulatory field. It suggests both an enhancement of the effectiveness of the quality control procedure as well as the commitment of builders to comply with the regulations.

Social implications

The quality of constructions is essential for the wellbeing and safety of its users, its occupants or its visitors. This applies to the whole range of quality aspects: structural- and fire safety, health, sustainability and usability aspects. The analyses and recommendations of this paper aim to contribute to an improvement of the overall construction quality.

Originality/value

The paper makes an original contribution to the (limited) literature that is available in this field. The results can be used to situate the quality control systems of each member state within the EU, to assess the main trends, and it can be used as a guide to develop strategic choices on possible improvements in each country.
Attitudes toward crowdsourced, community-involved new product development
Authors: Wu Juanjuan , Kim Angella J. , Chen Lili , Johnson Kim K.P.
Published: August 2017

Purpose

In the context of crowdsourced new product development (NPD), the purpose of this paper is to investigate the optimal level of community involvement (CI) (e.g. zero, limited, and high) when creating products from the perspectives of both ordinary and advanced users. The authors also investigate the influence of design interest and need for social affiliation on users’ attitudes toward and willingness to use community co-design.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted two survey studies using ordinary (Study 1,n=199) and advanced users (Study 2,n=131) to evaluate the co-designed T-shirts reflecting varying levels of CI (i.e. zero, limited, and high). The stimuli for both studies were the same and included ten sets of T-shirt co-designs generated from a CI crowdsourced website, Threadless. Fishbein’s (1963) multi-attribute attitude model was used to compute subjects’ overall attitude score toward the T-shirt co-designs.

Findings

Results showed both ordinary and advanced user groups rated the design quality of products reflecting limited CI lower than those of zero CI. Advanced users also rated the design quality and sales potential of products from limited CI lower than those of high CI. Further, advanced users indicated that products resulting from high CI reflected significantly better designs with regard to color, shape/line, size, general theme, and overall design as compared to products from limited CI. Design interest as well as need for social affiliation influenced users’ willingness to use community co-design and their attitudes toward a community co-design experience.

Originality/value

The research made an important differentiation between zero, limited, and high CI during the co-design process as well as between ordinary users and advanced users contributed to the extant literature addressing crowdsourcing in NPD.
Collaborative fashion consumption and its environmental effects
Authors: Iran Samira , Schrader Ulf
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide the conceptual basis of collaborative fashion consumption (CFC) as a possible path toward more sustainable clothing. A definition and a typology of CFC are introduced and possible environmental effects of CFC are structured and discussed. This provides a solid conceptual basis for future empirical studies on CFC as an element of more sustainable consumption.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is written mainly based on a review of the more recent literature on collaborative consumption, as well as of older papers about related concepts like sustainable service systems and eco-efficient services. The proposed CFC typology and the structure of environmental effects are developed using both a deductive and an inductive process, and then by transferring existing structures to this specific field and challenging them by assigning practical examples.

Findings

The main contributions of this paper are the definition and typology of CFC and the structure for assessing its environmental effects.

Research limitations/implications

The findings provide a conceptual basis for future empirical research on CFC.

Practical implications

For practitioners, the CFC typology and the structure of environmental effects could be used as checklists for future development of more sustainable collaborative consumption offers.

Originality/value

This paper makes a unique contribution to the concept of CFC. To the knowledge of the authors, this is the first paper that has been explicitly dedicated to examining different types and environmental effects of CFC.
Ecological factors influencing small mammal infection by Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. in agricultural and forest landscapes
Authors: Perez Grégoire , Bastian Suzanne , Chastagner Amélie , Agoulon Albert , Plantard Olivier , Vourc'h Gwenaël , Butet Alain
Published: August 2017

Small mammals are key components of numerous tick‐borne disease systems, as hosts for immature ticks and pathogen reservoirs. To study the factors influencing tick‐borne infection in small mammals, we trapped small mammals and collected questing ticks in spring and autumn in 2012 and 2013 at 24 sites in a 10 × 15 km rural landscapes (Brittany, France). Tissue samples were screened by real‐time PCR for Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato. Of the two dominant small mammal species captured, bank voles (Myodes glareolus) had higher prevalence than wood mice (Apodemus sylvaticus) for both infections, presumably because of specific differences in immunological defenses. Prevalence of infections was higher in 2013 than in 2012, likely because small mammals were fivefold less abundant in 2013, favouring tick aggregation. Bacterial prevalence, which was higher in autumn, was not associated to questing Ixodes ricinus nymph abundance which was six times higher in spring, but rather to the structure of the small mammal community. These findings suggest the involvement of endophilic tick species, I. trianguliceps and/or I. acuminatus, in bacterial transmission. Our study highlights that the entire community of hosts and vectors, and their interactions, should be considered to fully understand the epidemiology of vector‐borne diseases.
Genotypic analysis of degenerative Cordyceps militaris cultured in the pupa of Bombyx mori
Authors: Yin Juan , Xin Xiang‐Dong , Weng Yu‐Jie , Li Shao‐Hui , Jia Jun‐Qiang , Gui Zhong‐Zheng
Published: August 2017

The chemical composition and pharmacological effects of Cordyceps militaris are similar to those of Cordyceps sinensis, with the former undergoing greater development and utilization. Strain degeneration is a common phenomenon that occurs with high frequency during the subculturing of C. militaris, however, and the mechanism underlying strain degeneration remains unclear. In this study, we used touch‐down PCR to compare the ITS1 + 5.8S + ITS2, 18S, 28S and mating‐type (MAT) regions sequence of wild‐type and degenerated strains of C. militaris. We also used quantitative real‐time PCR to analyze expression levels of the CmMAT gene. Sequence analysis showed that the ITS1 + 5.8S + ITS2 and 28S regions of degenerated and wild‐type strains were completely identical, the 18S region of the degenerated strain contained seven single‐base mutations, including six base substitutions and one single‐base insertion. Compared with the wild‐type strain, the degenerated strain contained a deletion of the MAT1–2‐1 region, three base substitutions in the MAT1–1‐1 region, and a base substitution in the MAT1–1‐2 region that causes a glycine‐to‐valine amino acid substitution. Quantitative real‐time PCR analysis detected no CmMAT1–2‐1 gene expression in the degenerated strain, confirming the deletion of the CmMAT1–2‐1 gene. Expression levels of the CmMAT1–1‐1 and CmMAT1–1‐2 genes were significantly down‐regulated to only 7.5 % and 4.4 %, respectively, that of the wild‐type strain. These results indicate that 18S and MAT region mutations, as well as down‐regulated of CmMAT gene expression levels, may play important roles in C. militaris degeneration. This study provides a theoretical basis for further elucidation of the molecular mechanisms of C. militaris degeneration.
Yeasts dominate soil fungal communities in three lowland Neotropical rainforests
Authors: Dunthorn Micah , Kauserud Håvard , Bass David , Mayor Jordan , Mahé Frédéric
Published: August 2017

Forest soils typically harbour a vast diversity of fungi, but are usually dominated by filamentous (hyphae‐forming) taxa. Compared to temperate and boreal forests, though, we have limited knowledge about the fungal diversity in tropical rainforest soils. Here we show, by environmental metabarcoding of soil samples collected in three Neotropical rainforests, that Yeasts dominate the fungal communities in terms of the number of sequencing reads and OTUs. These unicellular forms are commonly found in aquatic environments, and their hyperdiversity may be the result of frequent inundation combined with numerous aquatic microenvironments in these rainforests. Other fungi that are frequent in aquatic environments, such as the abundant Chytridiomycotina, were also detected. While there was low similarity in OTU composition within and between the three rainforests, the fungal communities in Central America were more similar to each other than the communities in South America, reflecting a general biogeographic pattern also seen in animals, plants and protists.
A method for analysing small samples of floral pollen for free and protein‐bound amino acids
Authors: Stabler Daniel , Power Eileen F. , Borland Anne M. , Barnes Jeremy D. , Wright Geraldine A.
Published: August 2017

Pollen provides floral visitors with essential nutrients including proteins, lipids, vitamins and minerals. As an important nutrient resource for pollinators, including honeybees and bumblebees, pollen quality is of growing interest in assessing available nutrition to foraging bees. To date, quantifying the protein‐bound amino acids in pollen has been difficult and methods rely on large amounts of pollen, typically more than 1 g. More usual is to estimate a crude protein value based on the nitrogen content of pollen, however, such methods provide no information on the distribution of essential and non‐essential amino acids constituting the proteins.

Here, we describe a method of microwave‐assisted acid hydrolysis using low amounts of pollen that allows exploration of amino acid composition, quantified using ultra high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC), and a back calculation to estimate the crude protein content of pollen.

Reliable analysis of protein‐bound and free amino acids as well as an estimation of crude protein concentration was obtained from pollen samples as low as 1 mg. Greater variation in both protein‐bound and free amino acids was found in pollen sample sizes <1 mg. Due to the variability in recovery of amino acids in smaller sample sizes, we suggest a correction factor to apply to specific sample sizes of pollen in order to estimate total crude protein content.

The method described in this paper will allow researchers to explore the composition of amino acids in pollen and will aid research assessing the available nutrition to pollinating animals. This method will be particularly useful in assaying the pollen of wild plants, from which it is difficult to obtain large sample weights.
Opposing effects on cardiac function by calorie restriction in different‐aged mice
Authors: Sheng Yunlu , Lv Shan , Huang Min , Lv Yifan , Yu Jing , Liu Juan , Tang Tingting , Qi Hanmei , Di Wenjuan , Ding Guoxian
Published: August 2017

Calorie restriction (CR) increases average and maximum lifespan and exhibits an apparent beneficial impact on age‐related diseases. Several studies have shown that CR initiated either in middle or old age could improve ischemic tolerance and rejuvenate the aging heart; however, the data are not uniform when initiated in young. The accurate time to initiate CR providing maximum benefits for cardiac remodeling and function during aging remains unclear. Thus, whether a similar degree of CR initiated in mice of different ages could exert a similar effect on myocardial protection was investigated in this study. C57BL/6 mice were subjected to a calorically restricted diet (40% less than the ad libitum diet) for 3 months initiated in 3, 12, and 19 months. It was found that CR significantly reversed the aging phenotypes of middle‐aged and old mice including cardiac remodeling (cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and cardiac fibrosis), inflammation, mitochondrial damage, telomere shortening, as well as senescence‐associated markers but accelerated in young mice. Furthermore, whole‐genome microarray demonstrated that the AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK)–Forkhead box subgroup ‘O’ (FOXO) pathway might be a major contributor to contrasting regulation by CR initiated in different ages; thus, increased autophagy was seen in middle‐aged and old mice but decreased in young mice. Together, the findings demonstrated promising myocardial protection by 40% CR should be initiated in middle or old age that may have vital implications for the practical nutritional regimen.