bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two bromodomain proteins functionally interact to recapitulate an essential BRDT-like function inDrosophilaspermatocytes
Authors: Kimura Shuhei , Loppin Benjamin
Published: February 2015

In mammals, the testis-specific bromodomain and extra terminal (BET) protein BRDT is essential for spermatogenesis. InDrosophila, it was recently reported that the tBRD-1 protein is similarly required for male fertility. Interestingly, however, tBRD-1 has two conserved bromodomains in its N-terminus but it lacks an extra terminal (ET) domain characteristic of BET proteins. Here, using proteomics approaches to search for tBRD-1 interactors, we identified tBRD-2 as a novel testis-specific bromodomain protein. In contrast to tBRD-1, tBRD-2 contains a single bromodomain, but which is associated with an ET domain in its C-terminus. Strikingly, we show thattbrd-2knock-out males are sterile and display aberrant meiosis in a way highly similar totbrd-1mutants. Furthermore, these two factors co-localize and are interdependent in spermatocytes. We propose thatDrosophilatBRD-1 and tBRD-2 associate into a functional BET complex in spermatocytes, which recapitulates the activity of the single mammalian BRDT-like protein.
Brain nonapeptide levels are related to social status and affiliative behaviour in a cooperatively breeding cichlid fish
Authors: Reddon Adam R. , O'Connor Constance M. , Marsh-Rollo Susan E. , Balshine Sigal , Gozdowska Magdalena , Kulczykowska Ewa
Published: February 2015

The mammalian nonapeptide hormones, vasopressin and oxytocin, are known to be potent regulators of social behaviour. Teleost fishes possess vasopressin and oxytocin homologues known as arginine vasotocin (AVT) and isotocin (IT), respectively. The role of these homologous nonapeptides in mediating social behaviour in fishes has received far less attention. The extraordinarily large number of teleost fish species and the impressive diversity of their social systems provide us with a rich test bed for investigating the role of nonapeptides in regulating social behaviour. Existing studies, mostly focused on AVT, have revealed relationships between the nonapeptides, and both social behaviour and dominance status in fishes. To date, much of the work on endogenous nonapeptides in fish brains has measured genomic or neuroanatomical proxies of nonapeptide production rather than the levels of these molecules in the brain. In this study, we measure biologically available AVT and IT levels in the brains ofNeolamprologus pulcher, a cooperatively breeding cichlid fish, using high performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection. We found that brain AVT levels were higher in the subordinate than in dominant animals, and levels of IT correlated negatively with the expression of affiliative behaviour. We contrast these results with previous studies, and we discuss the role the nonapeptide hormones may play in the regulation of social behaviour in this highly social animal.
Depth specialization in mesophotic corals (
Leptoseris
spp.) and associated algal symbionts in Hawai'i
Authors: Pochon X. , Forsman Z. H. , Spalding H. L. , Padilla-Gamiño J. L. , Smith C. M. , Gates R. D.
Published: February 2015

Corals at the lower limits of mesophotic habitats are likely to have unique photosynthetic adaptations that allow them to persist and dominate in these extreme low light ecosystems. We examined the host–symbiont relationships from the dominant coral genus
Leptoseris
in mesophotic environments from Hawai'i collected by submersibles across a depth gradient of 65–125 m. Coral and
Symbiodinium
genotypes were compared with three distinct molecular markers including coral (
COX1–1-rRNA
intron) and
Symbiodinium
(
COI
) mitochondrial markers and nuclear
ITS2
. The phylogenetic reconstruction clearly resolved five
Leptoseris
species, including one species (
Leptoseris hawaiiensis
) exclusively found in deeper habitats (115–125 m). The
Symbiodinium
mitochondrial marker resolved three unambiguous haplotypes in clade C, which were found at significantly different frequencies between host species and depths, with one haplotype exclusively found at the lower mesophotic extremes (95–125 m). These patterns of host–symbiont depth specialization indicate that there are limits to connectivity between upper and lower mesophotic zones, suggesting that niche specialization plays a critical role in host–symbiont evolution at mesophotic extremes.
Quality characteristics of mayonnaise with varied amounts of yuzu juice added during the storage period
Authors: Kim Kyung Mi , Lee Jong Eun , Kim Jin Sook , Choi Song Yi , Jang Young Eun
Published: February 2015

The purpose of this study was to examine the antioxidant activity and quality characteristics of mayonnaise with varied amounts of yuzu juice added during the storage period. The viscosities of the yuzu juice groups were significantly higher than that of the control group (p<0.05). In terms of color, the L values of the yuzu juice groups were lower than that of the control group, and these L values significantly decreased during the storage period (p<0.05). In the meantime, the a values of the Y-75 and Y-100 groups significantly increased during the storage period (p<0.05). The DPPH free-radical scavenging activities of all the groups decreased during the storage period while the yuzu juice groups demonstrated higher DPPH free-radical scavenging activities compared to the control group (p<0.05). With an increment in the added amount of yuzu juice lower have been the acid values and peroxide values of yuzu juice groups than that of the control group even though they have been increased with the course of storage period (p<0.05). Based on these results, it can be concluded that yuzu juice added to the mayonnaise may be useful for improving its quality and storage stability.
Comparison of nutritional compositions of five pumpkin cultivars
Authors: Oh Ji Yeon , Kim So-Min , Yoon Jang-Eon , Jin Yong-Xie , Cho Young-Sook , Choi Youngmin
Published: February 2015

The nutrient contents of pumpkins depend on many factors, including the species, climate, soil type, and plant part. The nutritional compositions of five pumpkin cultivars (red boujjang, mini hong, mini gold, boujjang, and yakhobak) were investigated. To analyze the nutrient contents of the edible parts, the other parts (seeds, skin, and stem) of each pumpkin were removed. The results showed that the proximate compositions of the edible parts of the pumpkins ranged from 74 to 87 g per 100 g for moisture, 1.6 to 3.2 g per 100 g for crude protein, 10.1 to 20.7 g per 100 g for carbohydrate content, and 2.0 to 3.4 g per 100 g for total dietary fiber. The proximate contents of the pumpkin samples were not significantly different. The thiamine contents of the pumpkins, except for red boujjang, varied from 0.03 to 0.15 mg per 100 g, but that of red boujjang had the highest level (0.60 mg per 100 g). The vitamin C contents of the pumpkins, except for boujjang, ranged from 13.0 to 14.0 mg per 100 g, but that of boujjang was the highest (49.0 mg per 100 g). In particular, yakhobak showed the highest total carotenoid and folate levels (279.5 and 74.0 μg per 100 g, respectively). These results will be useful for coming up with better pumpkin varieties through breeding, and established the nutrient compositions of pumpkins.
Physicochemical and sensory characteristics of cookies with added purple kohlrabi powder
Authors: Cha Seon-Suk , Jung Hae-Ok , Son Hee-Kyoung , Lee Jae-Joon
Published: February 2015

In this study, the quality characteristics of cookies with added purple kohlrabi (Brassica oleracea var. gongylodes) powder were investigated and analyzed through chemical and sensory evaluation. Samples were prepared with different levels (0, 1, 3, and 5%) of freeze-dried kohlrabi powder. The addition of Kolarbi powder decreased the moisture and fat contents, but the ash content was significantly increased (p<0.05). The pH and density of the cookie dough decreased significantly with the increasing levels of kohlrabi powder added (p<0.05). The spread ratio of the cookies generally decreased as more kohlrabi powder was added, but the decrease was not statistically significant. The hardness of the cookies increased significantly, however, with the increasing levels of kohlrabi powder added (p<0.05). The Hunter's color L, a, and b values significantly decreased with increasing kohlrabi powder compared to those of the control (p<0.05). In the sensory evaluation, the cookies to which 3 and 5% kohlrabi powder were added showed remarkably higher values for color, taste and appearance. These results suggest that purple kohlrabi powder is a good ingredient for improving the sensory and quality characteristics of cookies.
Fermentation process increased antimutagenic and in vitro anticancer effects during Kochujang manufacturing
Authors: Kim Ji-Young , Liu Fang-Fang , Lim Yaung-Iee , Park Kun-Young
Published: February 2015

Increased antimutagenic and in vitro anticancer effects were observed by the fermentation process during Kochujang manufacturing. In order to confirm the increased functionality, wheat grain, first fermented wheat grains (FFWG), second fermented wheat grains (SFWG), final fermented wheat grains (FiFWG), red pepper powder (RPP), and commercial Kochujang (CK) were prepared. Kochujang manufactured with final fermented wheat grains and red pepper powder were further fermented for 15 days and 30 days. The antimutagenic effects were determined by counting the number of revertants in Salmonella Typhimurium TA100 against N-methyl-N'-nitro-nitrosoguanidine (MNNG, 1.0mg/mL). The final fermented wheat grains (52% inhibition) showed higher antimutagenic effects than the wheat grain (34%), and the commercial Kochujang showed the highest antimutagenic effects (55%). We tested the inhibitory effect on the growth of HT-29 human colon carcinoma cells and AGS human gastric adenocarcinoma cells by using MTT (3-(4,5-dimethyl-thiazol)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay. The results showed that increased fermentation process continually increased the growth inhibitory effect on both cancer cells. The further fermentation for 15 days of the Kochujang product also increased inhibitory growth of the AGS cancer cells. In conclusion, the methanol extract from fermented wheat grains and commercial Kochujang showed sequentially increased antimutagenic and in vitro anticancer activity, and thus the final commercial Kochujang revealed the highest effect.
Examining the relationship between perceived organizational support, transfer of training and service quality in the Malaysian public sector
Authors: Zumrah Abdul Rahim
Published: February 2015

Purpose

– This study aims to investigate the relationships among perceived organizational support (POS), transfer of training outcomes to the workplace and service quality in the context of public sector organizations in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

– The data for this study have been collected from three sources, the employees of public sector organizations in Malaysia, their supervisors and their colleagues through surveys.

Findings

– The findings reveal that transfer of training has a mediating effect on the relationship between POS and service quality.

Practical implications

– The findings illustrate that both elements, which are the support from organization (in terms of valuing employee contribution and caring about their well-being) and employee work attitude (applying the knowledge, skills and attitudes that are learned during training on the job) are significant in influencing employee service quality.

Originality/value

– This study adds to the small number of studies examining the mediator of the POS and service quality relationship. Such research is essential to understand a mechanism that links POS and service quality. This study also extends the literature by examining together the factor (POS) and the consequence (service quality) of transfer of training. To date, the number of empirical studies that have examined the factors and the consequences of transfer of training in one framework is still limited.
Performance management in Canadian public organizations: findings of a multi-case study
Authors: Goh Swee Chua , Elliott Catherine , Richards Greg
Published: February 2015

Purpose

– Performance management (PM) is now clearly a well-established practice in public sector organizations. However, increasingly scholars have been questioning its efficacy in improving organizational performance. Research has shown that the presumed benefits remain questionable and that there are many barriers, challenges and problems in implementing PM. The purpose of this paper is to report and discuss the findings of a multi-case study that examines in more depth how five Canadian public sector organizations are implementing PM.

Design/methodology/approach

– A qualitative multi-case study approach was used in this study. Structured interviews were carried out in each public sector organization and the interview data were analyzed using NVivo8. Individual case profiles were also written. A cross-case analysis was carried out using data from these five cases.

Findings

– The cross-case analysis of the data focussed on the major themes emerging from the data with respect to challenges and barriers, success factors, context and implications for practice for PM in public sector organizations. Three contextual factors are identified and discussed in explaining some of the findings. Conclusions are drawn for making PM more effective in achieving performance improvement in public sector organizations and future directions for research.

Research limitations/implications

– The research findings and implications for practice are based on five Canadian public sector organizations so may limit its generalizability to public sector organizations in other countries.

Practical implications

– Some practical implications are discussed with respect to implementing PM more successfully in public sector organizations. This included the better integration of PM to corporate strategy, leadership in developing a positive PM culture and employee buy-in and commitment to the process.

Originality/value

– This qualitative multi-case study of PM in Canadian public sector organizations has not previously been done. This approach allows for a more close-up look at PM in public sector organizations especially how it is implemented and the experiences of organizational members. The paper also presents new insights on context as an important variable in explaining the findings from the cross-case analysis and points to future new directions for research and in developing a contingency theory approach to PM.
Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) and its application in analyzing factors inhibiting implementation of Total Productive Maintenance (TPM)
Authors: Poduval Prasanth S. , Pramod V. R. , V. P. Jagathy Raj
Published: February 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to highlight the application of Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) to analyze the barriers in implementation of Total Productive Maintenance (TPM). TPM is explained in brief with emphasis on maintenance programs to improve quality of products, reliability of processes and reduction in cost. Barriers in implementation of TPM are also discussed. Concept of ISM and steps in developing ISM are described in detail. The authors then illustrate the research methodology which involves applying ISM to analyze barriers in TPM.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper starts off by describing the concepts of TPM and ISM. Barriers in implementation of TPM are discussed. It explains ISM as a methodology to understand the underlying interrelationship among the inhibiting factors. The authors draw up an action plan to carry out research on the usage of ISM to study the TPM inhibitors, to develop an integrated model to establish the relationship among the different TPM inhibiting factors and to suggest action plan to mitigate these factors.

Findings

– Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) can be used to analyze the driving and dependence power of the variables inhibiting implementation of TPM. The barriers to implement TPM are described with detailed explanation. The complexity of the problem and the degree of interconnection among the variables can be found out. This will help Managers take action on mitigating the barriers.

Practical implications

– By analyzing the interrelationships among the barriers and their strengths, management can chalk out the strategy to implement TPM in an organization. Management will become aware of the barriers which have the maximum influence and then can act accordingly to mitigate these barriers. This will help in implementing TPM faster and in an organized manner.

Originality/value

– Many authors have used ISM to study various issues. A couple of authors have used ISM to determine barriers in implementation of TPM. The authors feel that most of the papers describe ISM in brief making it slightly difficult for readers to understand. This paper aims to explain elaborately step-by-step on how to develop an ISM making it easier for researchers to understand the ISM concept. Even though there are papers on TPM and difficulties in implementation of TPM, this paper explains the barriers in implementing TPM based on the experience of the corresponding author having worked in the refinery industry.
It’s the act that counts: minimizing post-violation erosion of trust
Authors: Elangovan A. R. , Auer-Rizzi Werner , Szabo Erna
Published: February 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine the effects of damage incurred by the trustor as a result of a trust violation and the impact of different levels of post-violation trust repair behaviours by the trustee on the subsequent erosion of trust.

Design/methodology/approach

– Data were collected from 232 middle to senior level managers using a two-part scenario-based experimental design to test the impact of damage incurred (avoided) and post-violation repair behaviour. Respondents’ levels of trust were measured pre- and post-violation as well as forgiving and a range of demographic variables.

Findings

– Results showed that trust eroded independent of the level of damage that may have been caused. Further, post-violation trust repair behaviour by the trustee led to a significantly lower erosion of trust as compared to not engaging in such behaviours. Furthermore, erosion of trust was minimized, when the trustee engaged in increasing levels of trust repair behaviour. Results also showed that trustors who were relatively more forgiving were less likely to lose trust in the trustee after a violation.

Research limitations/implications

– In this study we focused on two key factors influencing the erosion of trust. Further factors need to be identified and empirically tested in order to get a more holistic view on how trust erodes. The results serve as one step towards building an integrated model of trust erosion.

Practical implications

– For practicing managers, the results imply that the actual incurrence or avoidance of damages from a trust violation appears to be peripheral – trustors are more concerned about the violation as a principle and a harbinger of similar future incidents. Further, quickly engaging in trust repair behaviours, such as offering an a good explanation, a heartfelt apology, and appropriate remedy, helps minimize the erosion of trust.

Originality/value

– This paper addresses an under-investigated facet of trust research in organizations – erosion of trust – which is especially crucial in light of the growing awareness that most organizational relationships actually start off with high levels of trust rather than low trust. Thus, this study offers insights into maintaining (as opposed to building) trust.
Shared leadership and gender: all members are equal … but some more than others
Authors: Mendez Maria J , Busenbark John R.
Published: February 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine the effect of shared leadership on the gap between male and female leadership influence in groups.

Design/methodology/approach

– The leadership influence of 231 members from 28 committees was studied using a social networks methodology. Gender differences in committee members’ directive and supportive leadership influence were analyzed through two ANCOVA tests.

Findings

– Results confirm significant differences between men and women’s leadership influence, as rated by their peers, using directive and supportive leader behaviors. Surprisingly, shared leadership has no significant effect on reducing this gender gap.

Research limitations/implications

– Results cannot be extrapolated to all other types of groups, since the committees studied have very unique characteristics due to their low typical mutual interaction.

Practical implications

– Organizations may need to consider complementary strategies in their group leadership design to prevent the emergence of strong gender gaps when leadership is shared. These strategies could involve training members to recognize gender inequalities in leadership status and assigning leadership roles formally to ensure more equal participation in leadership.

Originality/value

– This paper examines the promise of gender equality in shared leadership and provides empirical data that shows that this promise is not being realized.
Skills in the market: an analysis of skills and qualifications for American librarians
Authors: Gerolimos Michalis , Malliari Afrodite , Iakovidis Pavlos
Published: February 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to create a profile of the modern American academic librarian through the content analysis method of job advertisements.

Design/methodology/approach

– One hundred thirty-four advertisements were analyzed in various ways, e.g. salary, skills, qualifications, duties, followed by a multivariate analysis.

Findings

– Most significant findings include the importance of communication skills for all academic librarians, the significance of the Library and Information Science (LIS) degree and that applicants should expect a salary of $40,000-60,000.

Originality/value

– This paper builds on the previous studies in the field to verify that communication skills are among the most, if not the most, desired skills for a modern librarian, and that an LIS degree is still an asset.
The influence of age-awareness versus general HRM practices on the retirement decision of older workers
Authors: HENNEKAM Sophie , Herrbach Olivier
Published: February 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine the perception of HRM practices and the retirement decision of older workers with a low occupational status in the creative industry in the Netherlands using social identity theory.

Design/methodology/approach

– In total, 30 semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted by telephone. The sample consisted of workers with a low occupational status, aged 50 or above, in the creative industry in the Netherlands, all member of the trade union of this industry.

Findings

– The relationship between HRM practices and retirement decisions is complex and contradictory. In line with social identity theory, it was found that HRM practices designed for older workers were perceived as a stamp that they belonged to a devalued social group. However, they do want organizations to accommodate their needs, but in a way that they do not feel to require special attention.

Originality/value

– The findings show that older workers want organizations to adapt the workplace to their needs, but that the provision of age-specific practices could prevent them from constructing a positive social identity. HR practices can only make older workers extend their working lives if they are provided to all workers regardless occupational status or age.
Multiple sources of support, affective commitment, and citizenship behaviors
Authors: Chênevert Denis , Vandenberghe Christian , Tremblay Michel
Published: February 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine the moderating role of passive leadership in the relationships of perceived support from organization, coworkers, and physicians to affective commitment and organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) among hospital employees.

Design/methodology/approach

– Using a sample of 182 hospital employees and a time-lagged design in which predictors and moderator were assessed at Time 1 and self-reported OCB was obtained 2.5 years later, the authors examined whether passive leadership moderates the relationships of perceived supports to commitment and their indirect effects on OCB.

Findings

– Analyses indicate that at high levels of passive leadership, the relationship between support from organization and coworkers and commitment is less positive and the relationship between support from physicians and commitment is negative. Moreover, the indirect effect of perceived support from coworkers and physicians on OCB through affective commitment is weaker at high levels of passive leadership.

Research limitations/implications

– Although the data used were self-reported, the analyses show that method variance accounted for only 9 percent of the variance among constructs at Time 1. Findings contribute to highlight the boundary conditions associated with perceived support and establish that passive leadership severely limits the beneficial effects expected from support available to employees.

Practical implications

– Findings suggest that supervisors should be trained not only on improving positive leadership skills but also on reducing passive behaviors in the face of problems in their teams.

Originality/value

– This study extends the understanding of social exchange processes in organizations and invites managers and researchers to look at factors that slow down the development of social exchange relationships with employees.
Electronic monitoring and surveillance in the workplace
Authors: Holland Peter Jeffrey , Cooper Brian , Hecker Rob
Published: February 2015

Purpose

– Electronic monitoring and surveillance (EMS) practices provide new challenges in the workplace. The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between EMS in the workplace on employees’ trust in management.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper is based upon data from the 2012 Australian Electronic Workplace Survey of 500 randomly sampled employees. Controlling for a range of personal, job and workplace characteristics, the data were analysed using OLS and ordered probit regression.

Findings

– The regression analyses identified that EMS has, on average, a negative relationship with trust in management. The authors further differentiated the sample to examine the potential impact of EMS on trust between manual and non-manual employees. The study found the relationship between EMS and trust in management was only evident for manual workers.

Research limitations/implications

– Future research should investigate the extent to which employee attitudes, commitment and engagement are impacted, and the individual-level and organisational-level outcomes of EMS. Causal inferences are necessarily limited and the research does not address managers’ underlying motives. Although self-reported data on EMS reflect objectively measured characteristics of the organisation.

Practical implications

– EMS can have negative effects on the employment relationship through the loss of trust in management, especially for manual workers. Tangible effects may flow from this through withdrawal behaviour such as employee exit from the organisation.

Social implications

– The findings of this study provide evidence to add to the debate on the extent and impact of EMS in the workplace and its impact on employees, the employment relationship and productivity.

Originality/value

– Workplace surveillance is one of the most contentious issues facing employers, workers, unions, government and legal experts. However, little research has been undertaken on the effects of EMS on important job-related attitudes such as trust. The current paper remedies some of these deficits.
Badge it!
Authors: Ford Emily , Izumi Betty , Lottes Jost , Richardson Dawn
Published: February 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this article is to discuss the collaborative learning outcomes-based approach taken by a librarian and disciplinary faculty members to improve information literacy (IL) curriculum within disciplinary courses. To this end, the team aimed to award badges to certify IL skills.

Design/methodology/approach

– This article considers relevant literature on competency-based curriculum, technological innovation in higher education, collaboration between library and disciplinary faculty and badges. This literature is used to frame the approach to plan a successful and sustainable project to embed IL in disciplinary curriculum using digital badges. The approach includes mapping learning outcomes and engaging in instructional design tasks – including planning for content delivery and student assessment.

Findings

– An approach to technological innovation for instructional projects based on the principles of pedagogical design can result in improvements to IL pedagogy and collaboration between librarians and disciplinary faculty, whether or not a technological implementation is successful.

Practical implications

– Librarians and disciplinary faculty can take a pedagogical and learning outcomes-based approach to embedding IL into disciplinary curricula. Further, despite administrative push for technological innovation, projects can succeed when focused on improvements to pedagogy rather than solely on the implementation of new technologies.

Originality/value

– Planning for and implementing badges for IL curriculum is in an incipient phase in higher education. This paper uniquely addresses a collaborative approach to be used by librarians to plan and implement embedded library instruction in disciplinary courses, with or without the use of badging technology.
Leveraging adult learning theory with online tutorials
Authors: Halpern Rebecca , Tucker Chimene
Published: February 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to apply adult-centered learning theories to online information literacy tutorials.

Design/methodology/approach

– This is a conceptual paper that examines the application of adult learning theories to online information literacy tutorials. The application is supported by examples from the literature of libraries and higher education, and from the writers’ own experiences with designing online tutorials informed by adult learning theories.

Findings

– As online learners continue to be a growing population on our campuses, and as those online learners continue to be older than our traditional students, librarians must be prepared to design information literacy objects tailored to the unique learning styles of adults. Building from Knowles’ theory of andragogy, online tutorials that are informed by adult-centered strategies can be powerful tools for engaging with the adult online learner.

Practical implications

– This article gives a useful and comprehensive overview of adult learning theory as applied by education and library researchers. It also provides a specific example of how those theories can be implemented in online tutorials through the Information Literacy Toolkit the authors created.

Originality/value

– While there is literature on applying adult learning theory to library environments, little of it addresses how to do so in an asynchronous, self-paced tutorial. This is a contribution to the literature on asynchronous learning environments and suggests concrete ways to incorporate an adult-centered approach to digital learning objects.
What Happened to Queensland's Disaster Management Arrangements?: From ‘Global Best Practice’ to ‘Unsustainable’ in 3 Years
Authors: Arklay Tracey
Published: February 2015

The Queensland Police and Community Safety Review (PACSR) 2013 headed by Mick Keelty was tasked by the Queensland government to examine the State's emergency management practices and processes. Commissioned before any crisis, the PACSR was still collecting evidence when extensive flooding occurred across many regional centres of Queensland in 2013. It was the subsequent management of this event, and selected evidence from earlier inquiries that underpinned many of the findings in the final PACSR report. Keelty recommended institutional and organizational restructuring that included the abolition of a department, and the tasking of the fire and rescue service with additional oversight and audit functions. PACSR argued too much emphasis was placed on relationships, which made disaster management in Queensland potentially unsustainable in the longer term. Some of the findings replicated those of earlier inquiries (O'Sullivan 2009; QFCI 2012), including the apparent reluctance by police to implement communications systems that are interoperable with other emergency agencies. This reluctance to embrace new technologies indicates institutional and cultural barriers to reform. Despite this, the Police and Fire and Rescue services have been given additional responsibilities by the Newman government, based on Keelty's recommendations. PACSR did not appear to evaluate some of the best practice aspects of the 2010–2011 flooding event, whereas some suggest the report had a predetermined element to it (Byrne 2014). In finding that too much emphasis was placed on informal relationships and networks in 2013, and concentrating on structural reforms instead, this paper argues that the PACSR discounted many features that current crisis literature notes as important for a successful disaster management response.
Australasian disasters of national significance: An epidemiological analysis, 1900–2012
Authors: Bradt David A , Bartley Bruce , Hibble Belinda A , Varshney Kavita
Published: February 2015

Background

A regional epidemiological analysis of Australasian disasters in the 20th century to present was undertaken to examine trends in disaster epidemiology; to characterise the impacts on civil society through disaster policy, practice and legislation; and to consider future potential limitations in national disaster resilience.

Methods

A surveillance definition of disaster was developed conforming to the Centre for Research on the Epidemiology of Disasters (CRED) criteria (≥10 deaths, ≥100 affected, or declaration of state emergency or appeal for international assistance). The authors then applied economic and legislative inclusion criteria to identify additional disasters of national significance.

Results

The surveillance definition yielded 165 disasters in the period, from which 65 emerged as disasters of national significance. There were 38 natural disasters, 22 technological disasters, three offshore terrorist attacks and two domestic mass shootings. Geographic analysis revealed that states with major population centres experienced the vast majority of disasters of national significance. Timeline analysis revealed an increasing incidence of disasters since the 1980s, which peaked in the period 2005–2009. Recent seasonal bushfires and floods have incurred the highest death toll and economic losses in Australasian history. Reactive hazard‐specific legislation emerged after all terrorist acts and after most disasters of national significance.

Conclusion

Timeline analysis reveals an increasing incidence in natural disasters over the past 15 years, with the most lethal and costly disasters occurring in the past 3 years. Vulnerability to disaster in Australasia appears to be increasing. Reactive legislation is a recurrent feature of Australasian disaster response that suggests legislative shortsightedness and a need for comprehensive all‐hazards model legislation in the future.
Influence of Xanthan Gum on the Structural Characteristics of Myofibrillar Proteins Treated by High Pressure
Authors: Villamonte Gina , Jury Vanessa , Jung Stéphanie , de Lamballerie Marie
Published: February 2015

The effects of xanthan gum on the structural modifications of myofibrillar proteins (0.3 M NaCl, pH 6) induced by high pressure (200, 400, and 600 MPa, 6 min) were investigated. The changes in the secondary and tertiary structures of myofibrillar proteins were analyzed by circular dichroism. The protein denaturation was also evaluated by differential scanning calorimetry. Likewise, the protein surface hydrophobicity and the solubility of myofibrillar proteins were measured. High pressure (600 MPa) induced the loss of α‐helix structures and an increase of β‐sheet structures. However, the presence of xanthan gum hindered the former mechanism of protein denaturation by high pressure. In fact, changes in the secondary (600 MPa) and the tertiary structure fingerprint of high‐pressure‐treated myofibrillar proteins (400 to 600 MPa) were observed in the presence of xanthan gum. These modifications were confirmed by the thermal analysis, the thermal transitions of high‐pressure (400 to 600 MPa)‐treated myofibrillar proteins were modified in systems containing xanthan gum. As consequence, the high‐pressure‐treated myofibrillar proteins with xanthan gum showed increased solubility from 400 MPa, in contrast to high‐pressure treatment (600 MPa) without xanthan gum. Moreover, the surface hydrophobicity of high‐pressure‐treated myofibrillar proteins was enhanced in the presence of xanthan gum. These effects could be due to the unfolding of myofibrillar proteins at high‐pressure levels, which exposed sites that most likely interacted with the anionic polysaccharide. This study suggests that the role of food additives could be considered for the development of meat products produced by high‐pressure processing.
The Stress‐responsive Heme Oxygenase (HO)‐1 Isoenzyme is Increased in Labouring Myometrium where it Regulates Contraction‐associated Proteins
Authors: Liong Stella , Lappas Martha
Published: February 2015

Problem

Sterile inflammation through activation of cytokine receptor signalling pathways and viral or bacterial infection via activation of Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) induces a cascade of events that leads to myometrial contractions and spontaneous preterm delivery. In non‐pregnant tissues, heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) is thought to play a central role in regulating the inflammatory response. Thus, the aims of this study were to determine the effect of human term labour on HO‐1 expression in human myometrium and to investigate the role of HO‐1 in myometrial primary cells in response to cytokine‐ and TLR ligand‐induced inflammation.

Method of study

Localization and expression of HO‐1 protein in human myometrial tissues were determined using IHC. Western blot analysis and qRT‐PCR were also used to determine HO‐1 protein and gene expression, respectively, in human myometrium. siRNA knock‐down of HO‐1 in myometrial primary cells was used to determine its role in response to inflammatory stimuli.

Results

HO‐1 gene expression and protein expression were increased in term labouring myometrium compared with non‐labouring myometrium. Bacterial flagellin (TLR5 ligand), viral dsRNA analogue polyinosinic polycytidylic acid (poly(I:C)) (TLR3 ligand) and pro‐inflammatory cytokines IL‐1β and TNF‐α induced pro‐inflammatory cytokine (IL‐6 and IL‐8) mRNA expression and release in myometrial cells. IL‐1β also induced COX‐2 mRNA expression and prostaglandin release. HO‐1 siRNA knock‐down significantly decreased the expression and secretion of these prolabour mediators. Additionally, flagellin, poly(I:C), IL‐1β, and TNF‐α‐induced NF‐κB transcriptional activity were suppressed in HO‐1‐deficient myometrial cells.

Conclusion

Collectively, these findings in myometrium indicate HO‐1 expression is increased with labour and exerts pro‐inflammatory effects via NF‐κB during cytokine‐ and TLR ligand‐induced inflammation.
The Wnt1 ligand/Frizzled 3 receptor system plays a regulatory role in the achievement of the ‘in vitro’ capacitation and subsequent ‘in vitro’ acrosome exocytosis of porcine spermatozoa
Authors: Covarrubias A. A. , Yeste M. , Salazar E. , Ramírez‐Reveco A. , Rodriguez Gil J. E. , Concha I. I.
Published: February 2015

The aim of this work was to determine the existence of a functional Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway in boar spermatozoa, which would be linked with the already well‐known GSK‐3 signaling pathway. This was first confirmed by detecting the presence of the specific Frizzled 3 receptor in these cells. Furthermore, this signaling pathway was activated in boar spermatozoa subjected to ‘in vitro’ capacitation (IVC) and subsequent progesterone‐induced ‘in vitro’ acrosome exocytosis (IVAE) by incubating cells with separate concentrations of Wnt1 ligand, the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway‐specific effector. Incubation with the Wnt1 ligand increased the rhythm of the time‐dependent reduction in sperm viability during the achievement of both IVC and IVAE. This finding was concomitant with an increase in the percentage of spermatozoa with altered membrane fluidity and permeability determined through both merocyanine‐540 and YO‐PRO‐1 stains. While the Wnt1 ligand did not affect total sperm motility during the achievement of the IVC, it induced a fast and transient increase in the overall motility patterns in spermatozoa subjected to IVAE. This IVAE‐linked action was related to a decrease in the percentage of cells with high mitochondrial membrane potential and an increase in the percentage of cells with high intracellular Fluo‐3‐marked Ca2+ content. In conclusion, our results suggest that the Wnt1 ligand‐modulated Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway plays a relevant role in the modulation of both IVC and subsequent, progesterone‐induced IVAE. Furthermore, our data indicate that the transduction pathways by which the Wnt1 ligand acts on IVC and IVAE are different, and that the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway is independent from GSK‐3 activity in the achievement of IVC.
Amplitude‐integrated electroencephalography shows mild delays in electrocortical activity in preterm infants born small for gestational age
Authors: Griesmaier E , Burger C , Ralser E , Neubauer V , Kiechl‐Kohlendorfer U
Published: February 2015

Aim

Being born small for gestational age (SGA) seems to be a relevant risk factor for long‐term neurologic deficits. We compared the differences between amplitude‐integrated electroencephalography (aEEG) signals in very preterm infants born small for gestational age (SGA) and those in age‐matched infants born appropriate size for gestational age (AGA).

Methods

We performed serial aEEG recording on 305 infants: 255 (83.6%) were AGA, and 50 (16.3%) were SGA.

Results

The number of bursts per hour decreased over time in both groups, but was higher in the SGA group at every time point. On day one, it was significantly higher in the SGA group (17.4) than in the AGA group (10.1) (p = 0.016). The total Burdjalov score increased with post‐natal age and tended to be lower in SGA infants, but did not reach statistical significance at any time point. The percentage of continuous background patterns increased with post‐natal age in both groups, with no significant difference between the groups.

Conclusion

Very preterm infants born SGA showed normal maturation of aEEG signals during post‐natal life, but they also showed mild delays in electrocortical activity compared to age‐matched AGA infants. The predictive value of these findings on neurodevelopmental outcome needs to be further evaluated.
Airway hyper‐responsiveness to mannitol provides a good evaluation of atopy in childhood asthma
Authors: Attanasi M , Rapino D , Marcovecchio M L , Consilvio N P , Scaparrotta A , Cingolani A , Di Pillo S , Chiarelli F
Published: February 2015

Aim

The relationship between airway hyper‐responsiveness (AHR) and atopy has been previously investigated, but there are still some issues to be clarified. The aim of this study was to assess the link between AHR and mannitol and atopy in asthmatic children.

Methods

We evaluated 44 children with asthma, aged 6–16 years of age, using skin prick tests (SPTs), serum total and specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels and the mannitol challenge test (MCT).

Results

We found a good correlation between AHR to mannitol and specific IgE against Dermatophagoides pteronissinus (r = −0.66, p < 0.001) and a weak correlation with specific IgE against dog dander (r = −0.33, p = 0.01) and Aspergillus fumigatus (r = −0.23, p = 0.02). Furthermore, we found a weak correlation between AHR to mannitol and serum total IgE (r = −0.30; p = 0.03), the sum of specific IgE to aeroallergens (r = −0.37, p = 0.01) and the number of positive SPTs (r = −0.31, p = 0.02).

Conclusion

Measuring AHR with MCT might provide an accurate evaluation of the degree of atopy in children. The patients with a higher degree of atopy were significantly more reactive to mannitol. In clinical practice, these results indicate that children with asthma who are more atopic may require more intensive treatment strategies to reduce AHR.
Psychopathology among young homeless people: Longitudinal mental health outcomes for different subgroups
Authors: Hodgson Kate J. , Shelton Katherine H. , van den Bree Marianne B. M.
Published: February 2015

Background

Homeless young people are recognized as a very vulnerable group in terms of mental health; however, few studies in the UK have examined this. Furthermore, homeless young people represent a heterogeneous group in terms of their mental health and greater characterization could improve intervention work.

Objectives

The aims of this study were to examine prevalence and subtypes of psychopathology among a British sample of young homeless people and to investigate potential associations between identified typologies and a priori specified current and past experiences. In addition, the study intended to explore physical health, mental health, and housing outcomes for the different mental health subgroups.

Design

A prospective longitudinal design was used.

Methods

Structured interviews including a mental health assessment were conducted with 90 young homeless people aged 16–23 years. Follow‐up interviews were conducted approximately 10 and 20 months later. Cluster analysis at baseline was used to identify groups based on lifetime mental health problems.

Results

The current and lifetime incidence of mental health problems was high (88% and 93%, respectively). Three subgroups of homeless young people were identified: (1) minimal mental health issues; (2) mood, substance, and conduct disorder; and (3) post‐traumatic stress disorder, mood, and anxiety issues. These groups differed with respect to follow‐up indicators of change and stability of mental health status, service use, and suicide risk, but not housing outcome. Other characteristics (gender ratio, past experiences) also distinguished the subgroups.

Conclusions

Typologies of young homeless people based on psychopathology reveal differences in lifetime and future experiences including mental health at follow‐up. Identified groups could be used to tailor interventions towards differing needs.

Practitioner points

Low mood, anxiety, post‐traumatic stress disorder, and psychosis are common mental health issues among young homeless people in the UK.

Subgroups of young homeless people with differing needs can be identified, and these groups can be used to predict outcomes.

Tailoring support provision towards specific needs has the potential to improve mental health and other outcomes for vulnerable young homeless people.

Young homeless people often do not access the support to which they are entitled. Services need to be adapted to improve access for this group.