bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Purification and crystallographic analysis of a FAD-dependent halogenase fromStreptomycessp. JCM9888
Authors: Zhao Yanqun , Yan Baohua , Yang Ting , Jiang Jian , Wei Heng , Zhu Xiaofeng
Published: July 2015

A new FAD (flavin adenine dinucleotide)-dependent halogenase HalY fromStreptomycessp. JCM9888 was reported to be involved in the regioselective halogenation of adenine. HalY is a variant B FAD-dependent halogenase that is most similar to the halogenase PltA involved in pyoluteorin biosynthesis. This study reports the overexpression and purification of HalY with an N-terminal hexahistidine tag, followed by crystallization experiments and X-ray crystallographic analysis. HalY was purified as a monomer in solution and crystallized to give X-ray diffraction to a resolution of 1.7 Å. The crystal belonged to the monoclinic space groupP21, with unit-cell parametersa= 41.4,b= 113.4,c= 47.6 Å, α = γ = 90, β = 107.4°, and contained one monomer of HalY in the asymmetric unit, with a calculated Matthews coefficient of 2.3 Å3 Da−1and a solvent content of 46%. The structure of the halogenase CndH was used as a search model in molecular replacement to obtain the initial model of HalY. Manual model building and structure refinement of HalY are in progress.
Phormidiumphycoerythrin forms hexamers in crystals: a crystallographic study
Authors: Sonani Ravi Raghav , Sharma Mahima , Gupta Gagan Deep , Kumar Vinay , Madamwar Datta
Published: July 2015

The crystallographic analysis of a marine cyanobacterium (Phormidiumsp. A09DM) phycoerythrin (PE) that shows distinct sequence features compared with known PE structures from cyanobacteria and red algae is reported.PhormidiumPE was crystallized using the sitting-drop vapour-diffusion method with ammonium sulfate as a precipitant. Diffraction data were collected on the protein crystallography beamline at the Indus-2 synchrotron. The crystals diffracted to about 2.1 Å resolution at 100 K. The crystals, with an apparent hexagonal morphology, belonged to space groupP1, with unit-cell parametersa= 108.3,b= 108.4 Å,c= 116.6 Å, α = 78.94, β = 82.50, γ = 60.34°. The molecular-replacement solution confirmed the presence of 12 αβ monomers in theP1 cell. ThePhormidiumPE elutes as an (αβ)3trimer of αβ monomers from a molecular-sieve column and exists as [(αβ)3]2hexamers in the crystal lattice. Unlike red algal PE proteins, the hexamers ofPhormidiumPE do not form higher-order structures in the crystals. The existence of only one characteristic visual absorption band at 564 nm suggests the presence of phycoerythrobilin chromophores, and the absence of any other types of bilins, in thePhormidiumPE assembly.
Crystallographic analysis of the N-terminal domain ofMiddle East respiratory syndrome coronavirusnucleocapsid protein
Authors: Wang Yong-Sheng , Chang Chung-ke , Hou Ming-Hon
Published: July 2015

The N-terminal domain of the nucleocapsid protein fromMiddle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus(MERS-CoV NP-NTD) contains many positively charged residues and has been identified to be responsible for RNA binding during ribonucleocapsid formation by the virus. In this study, the crystallization and crystallographic analysis of MERS-CoV NP-NTD (amino acids 39–165), with a molecular weight of 14.7 kDa, are reported. MERS-CoV NP-NTD was crystallized at 293 K using PEG 3350 as a precipitant and a 94.5% complete native data set was collected from a cooled crystal at 77 K to 2.63 Å resolution with an overallRmergeof 9.6%. The crystals were monoclinic and belonged to space groupP21, with unit-cell parametersa= 35.60,b= 109.64,c = 91.99 Å, β = 101.22°. The asymmetric unit contained four MERS-CoV NP-NTD molecules.
Structure of the human MLH1 N-terminus: implications for predisposition to Lynch syndrome
Authors: Wu Hong , Zeng Hong , Lam Robert , Tempel Wolfram , Kerr Iain D. , Min Jinrong
Published: July 2015

Mismatch repair prevents the accumulation of erroneous insertions/deletions and non-Watson–Crick base pairs in the genome. Pathogenic mutations in theMLH1gene are associated with a predisposition to Lynch and Turcot's syndromes. Although genetic testing for these mutations is available, robust classification of variants requires strong clinical and functional support. Here, the first structure of the N-terminus of human MLH1, determined by X-ray crystallography, is described. The structure shares a high degree of similarity with previously determined prokaryoticMLH1homologs; however, this structure affords a more accurate platform for the classification ofMLH1variants.
Crystallographic analysis of FAD-dependent glucose dehydrogenase
Authors: Komori Hirofumi , Inaka Koji , Furubayashi Naoki , Honda Michinari , Higuchi Yoshiki
Published: July 2015

An FAD-dependent glucose dehydrogenase (GDH) fromAspergillus terreuswas purified and crystallized at 293 K using the sitting-drop vapour-diffusion method. A data set was collected to a resolution of 1.6 Å from a single crystal at 100 K using a rotating-anode X-ray source. The crystal belonged to space groupP21, with unit-cell parametersa= 56.56,b= 135.74,c= 74.13 Å, β = 90.37°. The asymmetric unit contained two molecules of GDH. The Matthews coefficient was calculated to be 2.2 Å3 Da−1and the solvent content was estimated to be 44%.
Lean psychology and the theories of “Thinking, Fast and Slow”
Authors: Hozak Kurt , Olsen Eric O.
Published: July 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to develop insights about the psychological factors that contribute to lean’s success as a holistic and adaptive system.

Design/methodology/approach

– The authors use the best-selling book “Thinking, Fast and Slow” (TFAS) (2011) by Nobel-prize winner Daniel Kahneman to provide a familiar lens for readers who might not otherwise be familiar with the psychology theories that are used in this paper to study lean conceptually. With this approach, the paper sheds light on psychological factors that tie together many of the philosophies, principles and practices of lean.

Findings

– The paper shows how lean’s philosophies, principles and practices provide a synergistic and self-reinforcing system that drives employee thinking and actions. TFAS characterizes thought processes as “fast System 1 thinking” that relies on intuition and “slow System 2 thinking” that is more rational and logical. Lean psychology eliminates waste and adds customer value by supporting, enhancing and taking advantage of beneficial fast thinking and motivating and imposing appropriate slow thinking.

Originality/value

– The authors develop the concept of lean psychology to describe the relationship between psychology theories and lean. By applying lean psychology, organizations can go beyond superficially adopting a checklist of tools and techniques to more fully take advantage of lean and improve their operations performance.
How an entry-level, interdisciplinary sustainability course revealed the benefits and challenges of a university-wide initiative for sustainability education
Authors: Coops Nicholas C , Marcus Jean , Construt Ileana , Frank Erica , Kellett Ron , Mazzi Eric , Munro Alison , Nesbit Susan , Riseman Andrew , Robinson John , Schultz Anneliese , Sipos Yona
Published: July 2015

Purpose

– Delivery of sustainability-related curriculum to undergraduate students can be problematic due to the traditional “siloing” of curriculum by faculties along disciplinary lines. In addition, while there is often a ready availability of courses focused on sustainability issues in the later years of students’ programs, few early entry-level courses focused on sustainability, broad enough to apply to all disciplines, are available to students in the first year of their program.

Design/methodology/approach

– In this paper, we describe the development, and preliminary implementation, of an entry-level, interdisciplinary sustainability course. To do so, the authors describe the development of a university-wide initiative designed to bridge units on campus working and teaching in sustainability areas, and to promote and support sustainability curriculum development.

Findings

– The authors describe the conceptual framework for organising course content and delivery. The authors conclude with an informal assessment of the successes and challenges, and offer learning activities, student assessments and course administration recommendations for consideration when developing courses with similar learning goals.

Originality/value

– The positive and negative experiences gained through developing and offering a course of this nature, in a large research-focused university, offers knew insights into potential barriers for implementing first-year cross-cutting sustainability curriculum.
Towards the distinctive Islamic mode of leadership in business
Authors: Galanou Aikaterini , Farrag Dalia Abdelrahman
Published: July 2015

Purpose

– The paper provides some fundamental observations on leadership from an Islamic perspective and the Islamic revealed knowledge. The purpose of this paper is to measure the association between Islamic leadership and the most common western forms of leadership namely; transactional, transformational, authentic, and ethical leadership styles as well as its relationship on leader’s effectiveness and organizational innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

– An empirical investigation was conducted using portrait value questionnaire recommended by Schwartz (1994b), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) followed by structural equation modelling (SEM).

Findings

– The results indicated that Islamic leadership is positively and significantly associated with perception of leader effectiveness and innovation outcomes. In addition the findings revealed that Islamic leadership is positively correlated with transformational, ethical, and authentic leadership as well and not with the transactional leadership style.

Practical implications

– Among the practical implications of this research is that while a large body of leadership research has adopted a variation of leadership theories, our results suggest that we should seize to pay attention to the influential Islamic leadership.

Originality/value

– The originality of this paper is that it extends scholarly understanding on Islamic perspectives of management which is a relatively new and growing area of interest for academics and practitioners, in terms of both theory and practice.
10 Practical findings from the deployment of an exploratory knowledge management framework
Authors: O'Brien Jamie
Published: July 2015

Purpose

– This paper aims to offer a practical lens grounded in the relatively unexplored industry setting of medical devices. The objective of this paper is to use two in-depth case studies to highlight the key findings of an exploratory knowledge assessment framework surrounding the areas of knowledge creation, acquisition, sharing and reuse.

Design/methodology/approach

– An interpretivist paradigm was followed while using two case studies. The study was developed over a three-year period using 36 in-depth interviews, document analysis and observation.

Findings

– At the case companies, these findings were concluded: Across groups, cross-functional sharing is siloed, which leads to a lack of knowledge sharing. Cultural issues, such as hoarding of knowledge, hinder knowledge management (KM) initiatives. Employees new to the organisation find it difficult to locate knowledge. Employees are dependent on their informal network. The implementation of several KM initiatives is hindered because staff do not have sufficient time. Knowledge reuse is not given attention when targets have to be met. Due to time issues and informal network dependence, there is a lack of formal systems use. There is a lack of ownership of knowledge. There are knowledge retention problems. The organisation does not know its employees’ skills.

Research limitations/implications

– The usual limitations of case-study research apply surrounding generalisability; however, the author has used best practice in the application of this study using the case-study literature.

Practical implications

– By exploring at firm level some of the factors associated with individual knowledge acquisition and providing empirical evidence, the study contributes to richer understanding of what should be perceived by potential knowledge recipients to enhance their acquiring knowledge from others. The research shows that for increased competitiveness, knowledge should be shared among organisational members and highlights some of the pitfalls of using KM systems to achieve this.

Originality/value

– The proposed framework offers a lens to organisations with which they could gauge their knowledge base and ask the how and why questions. This would improve awareness in the areas of knowledge acquisition, sharing, learning and reuse.
Calendar time interpolation of amplitude maps from 4D seismic data
Authors: Kiær Anders Fredrik , Eiken Ola , Landrø Martin
Published: July 2015

A calendar time interpolation method for 2D seismic amplitude maps, done in two steps, is presented. The contour interpolation part is formulated as a quadratic programming problem, whereas the amplitude value interpolation is based on a conditional probability formulation. The method is applied on field data from the Sleipner CO2 storage project. The output is a continuous image (movie) of the CO2 plume. Besides visualization, the output can be used to better couple 4D seismic to other types of data acquired. The interpolation uncertainty increases with the time gap between consecutive seismic surveys and is estimated by leaving a survey out (blind test). Errors from such tests can be used to identify problems in understanding the flow and possibly improve the interpolation scheme for a given case. Field‐life cost of various acquisition systems and repeat frequencies are linked to the time‐lapse interpolation errors. The error in interpolated amplitudes increased by 3%‐4% per year of interpolation gap for the Sleipner case. Interpolation can never fully replace measurements.
A survey on the developmental intestinal microbiota research in China: The history, funding, and frontiers of gut bacteria
Authors: Chen Hui Min , Liu Xiao Wei , Sun Rui Juan , Fang Jing Yuan
Published: July 2015

Up to 100 trillion bacteria are harbored in the human intestine with a mutualistic and interdependent relationship with the host during a long period of co‐evolution. The so‐called intestinal microbiota (IM) fulfill important metabolic tasks and the impaired stability may lead to IM‐related diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), colorectal cancer (CRC), metabolic syndrome (MS), liver diseases, and so on. Here, we review the past and development of IM research in China, including the achievements that Chinese researchers have made both in basic and clinical scientific field. Moreover, we evaluate the contributions of the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC), the 973 National Basic Research Program of China (973 Program), the 863 National High Technology Research and Development Program of China (863 Program), and funds from the public health industry in the field of IM research.
Strong effects of variation in taxonomic opinion on diversification analyses
Authors: Faurby Søren , Eiserhardt Wolf L. , Svenning Jens‐Christian
Published: July 2015

The effects of variation in taxonomic opinion between ‘splitters’ and ‘lumpers’ have been debated intensely in conservation biology and have also been discussed in macroecology. However, the impact on diversification analyses has received little attention and has largely been ignored by many end‐users of macroevolutionary analyses.

Using simulated data sets, we analysed the effects of variation in taxonomic opinion on lineage diversification analysis, focusing on two measures of phylogenetic asymmetry (β and IC), a measure of the relative age composition of nodes (γ), and the MEDUSA algorithm, which searches for clades with unique diversification histories.

All measures were biased by variation in taxonomic opinion, but to different degrees. The γ‐estimate and the MEDUSA algorithm were found to be especially sensitive, with error rates high enough to make it likely that false increases in diversification rates over time or clades with apparently, but not actually, unique diversification histories would be present in many published analyses. In contrast, for the two measures of phylogenetic asymmetry the biases were likely too small to substantially change conclusions in studies ignoring variation in taxonomic opinion.

Our results highlight that variation in taxonomic opinion can be an important source of error in diversification analyses. We therefore suggest that all end‐users of diversification analyses should consider whether the approaches used are sensitive to this issue and, if so, whether any of their results could be a consequence of different taxonomic treatment of different lineages rather than real biological differences.
Anaphylaxis and ethnicity: higher incidence in British South Asians
Authors: Buka R. J. , Crossman R. J. , Melchior C. L. , Huissoon A. P. , Hackett S. , Dorrian S. , Cooke M. W. , Krishna M. T.
Published: July 2015

Background

The incidence of anaphylaxis in South Asians (Indian, Pakistani and Bangladeshi ethnicity) is unknown. Birmingham is a British city with a disproportionately large population of South Asians (22.5%) compared with the rest of the UK (4.9%). The main aims of this study were to determine the incidence and severity of anaphylaxis in this population and to investigate the differences between the South Asian and White populations.

Methods

A retrospective electronic search of emergency department attendances at three hospitals in Birmingham during 2012 was carried out. Wide search terms were used, medical notes were scrutinized, and the World Allergy Organization diagnostic criteria for anaphylaxis were applied. Patients’ age, sex, ethnicity and home postal code were collected, reactions were graded by severity, and other relevant details including specialist assessment were extracted. Multivariate analysis was undertaken using 2011 UK census data.

Results

Age‐, sex‐ and ethnicity‐standardized incidence rate of anaphylaxis was 34.5 per 100 000 person‐years. Multivariate logistic regression which controlled for the confounders of age, sex and level of socioeconomic deprivation showed that incidence was higher in the South Asian population (OR 1.48, P = 0.005). Incidence rate in the South Asian population was 58.3 cases per 100 000 person‐years compared to 31.5 in the White population. South Asian children were more likely to present with severe anaphylaxis (OR 5.31, P = 0.002).

Conclusions

Incidence of anaphylaxis is significantly higher in British South Asians compared to the white population. British South Asian children are at a greater risk of severe anaphylaxis than White children.
Breastfeeding and intelligence: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Horta Bernardo L , Loret de Mola Christian , Victora Cesar G
Published: July 2015

Aim

This study was aimed at systematically reviewing evidence of the association between breastfeeding and performance in intelligence tests.

Methods

Two independent searches were carried out using Medline, LILACS, SCIELO and Web of Science. Studies restricted to infants and those where estimates were not adjusted for stimulation or interaction at home were excluded. Fixed‐ and random‐effects models were used to pool the effect estimates, and a random‐effects regression was used to assess potential sources of heterogeneity.

Results

We included 17 studies with 18 estimates of the relationship between breastfeeding and performance in intelligence tests. In a random‐effects model, breastfed subjects achieved a higher IQ [mean difference: 3.44 points (95% confidence interval: 2.30; 4.58)]. We found no evidence of publication bias. Studies that controlled for maternal IQ showed a smaller benefit from breastfeeding [mean difference 2.62 points (95% confidence interval: 1.25; 3.98)]. In the meta‐regression, none of the study characteristics explained the heterogeneity among the studies.

Conclusion

Breastfeeding is related to improved performance in intelligence tests. A positive effect of breastfeeding on cognition was also observed in a randomised trial. This suggests that the association is causal.
A ‘One Stop’ Prostate Clinic for rural and remote men: a report on the first 200 patients
Authors: McCombie Steve P. , Hawks Cynthia , Emery Jon D. , Hayne Dickon
Published: July 2015

Objective

To report on the structure and outcomes of a new ‘One Stop’ Prostate Clinic (OSPC) designed specifically for rural and remote men.

Patients and Methods

Prospective cohort study of the first 200 rural or remote men to access a new OSPC at a public tertiary‐level hospital in Western Australia between August 2011 and August 2014. Men attended for urological assessment, and proceeded to same‐day transrectal ultrasonography‐guided prostate biopsies, if appropriate. Referral criteria were either two abnormal age‐related prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) levels in the absence of urinary tract infection (UTI), or an abnormal digital rectal examination (DRE) regardless of PSA level.

Results

The median (range) distance travelled was 1545 (56–3229) km and median (range) time from referral to assessment was 33 (2–165) days. The median (range) age was 62 (38–85) years, PSA level was 6.7 (0.5–360) ng/mL and 39% (78/200) had a suspicious DRE. In all, 92% (184/200) of men proceeded to prostate biopsies, and 60% (111/184) of these men were diagnosed with prostate cancer. Our complication rate was 3.5% (6/172). Radical prostatectomy (46/111), active surveillance (28/111) and external beam radiation therapy (26/111) were the commonest subsequent treatment methods. A $1045 (Australian dollars) cost‐saving per person was estimated based on the reduced need for travel with the OSPC model.

Conclusion

The OSPC is an effective and efficient model for assessing men suspected of having prostate cancer living in rural and remote areas of Western Australia, and this model may be applicable to other areas.
Consistent Scene Editing by Progressive Difference Images
Authors: Günther Tobias , Grosch Thorsten
Published: July 2015

Even though much research was dedicated to the acceleration of consistent, progressive light transport simulations, the computation of fully converged images is still very time‐consuming. This is problematic, as for the practical use in production pipelines, the rapid editing of lighting effects is important. While previous approaches restart the simulation with every scene manipulation, we make use of the coherence between frames before and after a modification in order to accelerate convergence of the context that remained similar. This is especially beneficial if a scene is edited that has already been converging for a long time, because much of the previous result can be reused, e.g., sharp caustics cast or received by the unedited scene parts. In its essence, our method performs the scene modification stochastically by predicting and accounting for the difference image. In addition, we employ two heuristics to handle cases in which stochastic removal is likely to lead to strong noise. Typical scene interactions can be broken down into object adding and removal, material substitution, camera movement and light editing, which we all examine in a number of test scenes both qualitatively and quantitatively. As we focus on caustics, we chose stochastic progressive photon mapping as the underlying light transport algorithm. Further, we show preliminary results of bidirectional path tracing and vertex connection and merging.
Smooth Loops from Unconstrained Video
Authors: Sevilla‐Lara L. , Wulff J. , Sunkavalli K. , Shechtman E.
Published: July 2015

Converting unconstrained video sequences into videos that loop seamlessly is an extremely challenging problem. In this work, we take the first steps towards automating this process by focusing on an important subclass of videos containing a single dominant foreground object. Our technique makes two novel contributions over previous work: first, we propose a correspondence‐based similarity metric to automatically identify a good transition point in the video where the appearance and dynamics of the foreground are most consistent. Second, we develop a technique that aligns both the foreground and background about this transition point using a combination of global camera path planning and patch‐based video morphing. We demonstrate that this allows us to create natural, compelling, loopy videos from a wide range of videos collected from the internet.
Motion Aware Exposure Bracketing for HDR Video
Authors: Gryaditskaya Yulia , Pouli Tania , Reinhard Erik , Myszkowski Karol , Seidel Hans‐Peter
Published: July 2015

Mobile phones and tablets are rapidly gaining significance as omnipresent image and video capture devices. In this context we present an algorithm that allows such devices to capture high dynamic range (HDR) video. The design of the algorithm was informed by a perceptual study that assesses the relative importance of motion and dynamic range. We found that ghosting artefacts are more visually disturbing than a reduction in dynamic range, even if a comparable number of pixels is affected by each. We incorporated these findings into a real‐time, adaptive metering algorithm that seamlessly adjusts its settings to take exposures that will lead to minimal visual artefacts after recombination into an HDR sequence. It is uniquely suitable for real‐time selection of exposure settings. Finally, we present an off‐line HDR reconstruction algorithm that is matched to the adaptive nature of our real‐time metering approach.
Allergy – current insights into prevention and diagnostic workup of immediate‐type allergy and treatment of allergic rhinoconjunctivitis
Authors: Brehler Randolf , Stöcker Benedikt , Grundmann Sonja
Published: July 2015

In recent decades, the incidence of allergic diseases has dramatically increased, by now affecting a large percentage of the population. For a long time, allergen avoidance was considered the most crucial measure in primary allergy prevention. However, studies have increasingly shown that exposure to allergens is an essential prerequisite for the development of immunological tolerance.

Diagnostic workup is based on patient history, skin tests, and measurement of specific IgE antibodies. The introduction of component‐based diagnostic workup offer an option to differentiate between primary sensitization and cross‐reactivity caused by sensitization to panallergens or sensitization to cross‐reactive carbohydrate epitopes.

Symptomatic treatment only leads to temporary relief of allergic symptoms. By contrast, specific immunotherapy (SIT) may have long‐lasting therapeutic effects and potentially even result in a complete cure. The selection of allergens for SIT is guided by the principle of major allergens. It is recommended to use those preparations that have been proven safe and effective in controlled clinical studies. With respect to subcutaneous immunotherapy, a host of tested and approved extracts are available for a wide range of different allergens. Large clinical trials have also confirmed the efficacy of sublingual immunotherapy with grass and also birch pollen extracts, which has led to the official approval of some preparations containing these allergens.
Family peer support work in an early intervention youth mental health service
Authors: Leggatt Margaret , Woodhead Gina
Published: July 2015

This paper describes the evolution of a family peer support programme in an early intervention service in Melbourne, Australia. In response to policy directions from Federal and State governments calling for carer participation in public mental health services, and feedback from the families of young people at Orygen Youth Health, the ‘Families Helping Families’ project was developed. The positive acceptance by families of this innovative programme also warrants further exploration. The programme has overcome many organizational hurdles associated with specifically trained and employed family carers working alongside professional mental health clinicians. This article describes the change processes involved in implementing this programme and documents preliminary expressions of the benefits of family peer support. The contribution of lived experience in treatment and consumer care plans needs rigorous research and evaluation.
Characterisation of cell–substrate interactions between Schwann cells and three‐dimensional fibrin hydrogels containing orientated nanofibre topographical cues
Authors: Hodde Dorothee , Gerardo‐Nava José , Wöhlk Vanessa , Weinandy Stefan , Jockenhövel Stefan , Kriebel Andreas , Altinova Haktan , Steinbusch Harry W. M. , Möller Martin , Weis Joachim , Mey Jörg , Brook Gary A.
Published: July 2015

The generation of complex three‐dimensional bioengineered scaffolds that are capable of mimicking the molecular and topographical cues of the extracellular matrix found in native tissues is a field of expanding research. The systematic development of such scaffolds requires the characterisation of cell behaviour in response to the individual components of the scaffold. In the present investigation, we studied cell–substrate interactions between purified populations of Schwann cells and three‐dimensional fibrin hydrogel scaffolds, in the presence or absence of multiple layers of highly orientated electrospun polycaprolactone nanofibres. Embedded Schwann cells remained viable within the fibrin hydrogel for up to 7 days (the longest time studied); however, cell behaviour in the hydrogel was somewhat different to that observed on the two‐dimensional fibrin substrate: Schwann cells failed to proliferate in the fibrin hydrogel, whereas cell numbers increased steadily on the two‐dimensional fibrin substrate. Schwann cells within the fibrin hydrogel developed complex process branching patterns, but, when presented with orientated nanofibres, showed a strong tendency to redistribute themselves onto the nanofibres, where they extended long processes that followed the longitudinal orientation of the nanofibres. The process length along nanofibre‐containing fibrin hydrogel reached near‐maximal levels (for the present experimental conditions) as early as 1 day after culturing. The ability of this three‐dimensional, extracellular matrix‐mimicking scaffold to support Schwann cell survival and provide topographical cues for rapid process extension suggest that it may be an appropriate device design for the bridging of experimental lesions of the peripheral nervous system.
Inhibitory potential of phenylpropanoid glycosides from Ligustrum purpurascens Kudingcha against α‐glucosidase and α‐amylase in vitro
Authors: Feng Yue , Lu Fangqi , Wu Xuli , Li Yao , Shen Yanxia , Fan Long , He Zhenda , Gao Kaiping
Published: July 2015

The leaves of Ligustrum purpurascens are used in a Chinese traditional tea called small‐leaved kudingcha, which is rich in phenylpropanoid glycosides (PPGs) and has many beneficial properties. Two critical exoacting glycoside hydrolase enzymes (glucosidases) involved in carbohydrate digestion are α‐glucosidase and α‐amylase. We investigated the properties of PPGs from L. purpurascens for inhibiting α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase activity in vitro and found IC50 values of 1.02 and 0.73 mg mL−1, respectively. The patterns of inhibiting both α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase were mixed‐inhibition type. Multispectroscopy and molecular docking studies indicated that the interaction between PPGs and α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase altered the conformation of enzymes, with binding at the site close to the active site of enzymes resulting in changed enzyme activity. Our studies may help in the further health use of small‐leaved kudingcha.
Processing and storage effects on the oxidative stability of hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) oil‐in‐water emulsions
Authors: Raikos Vassilios , Konstantinidi Vasiliki , Duthie Garry
Published: July 2015

Hempseed oil was used to form oil‐in‐water emulsions, and the effect of heating, storage and light on the oxidative stability of the dispersed phase was investigated. Lipid oxidation rate increased following thermal processing and light exposure, whereas oxidation markers remained relatively unaffected during emulsions storage at 4 °C for 10 days. Induction times of the emulsions were reduced up to 26% and the concentration of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances increased up to 4.5‐fold, depending on the processing conditions. Selected berries as potential sources of natural antioxidants were screened for polyphenol and anthocyanin content in order to investigate their ability to retard lipid oxidation in comparison with a commercially available synthetic counterpart. Raspberry powder extract significantly improved the oxidative stability of hemp‐based emulsion compared with the control and was even more effective compared to a synthetic antioxidant when samples were subjected to heat treatment.
Transperitoneal versus extraperitoneal robot‐assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy: A prospective single surgeon randomized comparative study
Authors: Akand Murat , Erdogru Tibet , Avci Egemen , Ates Mutlu
Published: July 2015

Objectives

To compare operative, pathological, and functional results of transperitoneal and extraperitoneal robot‐assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy carried out by a single surgeon.

Methods

After having experience with 32 transperitoneal laparoscopic radical prostatectomies, 317 extraperitoneal laparoscopic radical prostatectomies, 30 transperitoneal robot‐assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomies and 10 extraperitoneal robot‐assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomies, 120 patients with prostate cancer were enrolled in this prospective randomized study and underwent either transperitoneal or extraperitoneal robot‐assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy. The main outcome parameters between the two study groups were compared.

Results

No significant difference was found for age, body mass index, preoperative prostate‐specific antigen, clinical and pathological stage, Gleason score on biopsy and prostatectomy specimen, tumor volume, positive surgical margin, and lymph node status. Transperitoneal robot‐assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy had shorter trocar insertion time (16.0 vs 25.9 min for transperitoneal robot‐assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy and extraperitoneal robot‐assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy, P < 0.001), whereas extraperitoneal robot‐assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy had shorter console time (101.5 vs 118.3 min, respectively, P < 0.001). Total operation time and total anesthesia time were found to be shorter in extraperitoneal robot‐assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy, without statistical significance (200.9 vs 193.2 min; 221.8 vs 213.3 min, respectively). Estimated blood loss was found to be lower for extraperitoneal robot‐assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (P = 0.001). Catheterization and hospitalization times were observed to be shorter in extraperitoneal robot‐assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (7.3 vs 5.8 days and 3.1 vs 2.3 days for transperitoneal robot‐assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy and extraperitoneal robot‐assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy, respectively, P < 0.05). The time to oral diet was significantly shorter in extraperitoneal robot‐assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (32.3 vs 20.1 h, P = 0.031). Functional outcomes (continence and erection) and complication rates were similar in both groups.

Conclusions

Extraperitoneal robot‐assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy seems to be a good alternative to transperitoneal robot‐assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy with similar operative, pathological and functional results. As the surgical field remains away from the bowel, postoperative return to normal diet and early discharge can be favored.
Doing Well by Doing Good? Community Development Venture Capital
Authors: Kovner Anna , Lerner Josh
Published: July 2015

This paper examines the investments and performance of community development venture capital (CDVC). We find substantial differences between CDVCs and traditional VCs: CDVC investments are far more likely to be in nonmetropolitan regions and in regions with little prior venture activity. CDVC investments are likely to be in earlier stage investments and in industries outside the venture capital mainstream that have lower probabilities of successful exit. Even after controlling for this unattractive transaction mixture, the probability of a CDVC investment being successfully exited is lower. One benefit of CDVCs may be their effect in bringing traditional VCs to underserved regions—controlling for the presence of traditional VC investments, each additional CDVC investment results in an additional 0.06 new traditional VC firms in a region.
Price Discrimination under Customer Recognition and Mergers
Authors: Esteves Rosa‐Branca , Vasconcelos Helder
Published: July 2015

This paper studies the interaction between horizontal mergers and price discrimination by endogenizing the merger formation process in the context of a repeated purchase model with two periods and three firms wherein firms may engage in behavior‐based price discrimination (BBPD). From a merger policy perspective, this paper's main contribution is twofold. First, it shows that when firms are allowed to price discriminate, the (unique) equilibrium merger gives rise to significant increases in profits for the merging firms (the ones with information to price discriminate), but has no ex‐post effect on the outsider firm's profitability, thereby eliminating the so‐called (static) “free‐riding problem.” Second, this equilibrium merger is shown to increase industry profits at the expense of consumers' surplus, leaving total welfare unaffected. This then suggests that competition authorities should scrutinize with greater zeal mergers in industries where firms are expected to engage in BBPD.
Endowment Origin, Demographic Effects, and Individual Preferences in Contests
Authors: Price Curtis R. , Sheremeta Roman M.
Published: July 2015

In modern firms the use of contests as an incentive device is ubiquitous. Nonetheless, experimental research shows that in the laboratory subjects routinely make suboptimal decisions in contests even to the extent of making negative returns. The purpose of this study is to investigate how earning the endowment, demographic differences, and individual preferences impact behavior in contests. To this end, we conduct a laboratory experiment in which subjects expend costly resources (bids) to attain an award (prize). In line with other laboratory studies of contests, our results show that subjects overbid relative to theoretical predictions and incur substantial losses as a result. Making subjects earn their initial resource endowments mitigates overbidding and thus increases efficiency. Overbidding is linked to gender, with women bidding higher than men and having lower average earnings. Other demographic information, such as religiosity, and individual preferences, such as preferences toward winning and risk, also influence behavior in contests.
Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase C677T and A1298C gene polymorphisms in oral squamous cell carcinoma in south‐east Iran
Authors: Miri‐Moghaddam Ebrahim , Saravani Shirin , Garme Yasamn , Khosravi Arezoo , Bazi Ali , Motazedian Jamaledin
Published: July 2015

Background

Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene encodes an essential enzyme involving in folate metabolism. Due to the role of folate in DNA integrity, polymorphisms of MTHFR are interesting targets for cancer risk studies. Our goal was to evaluate the prevalence of MTHFR C677T and A1298T single nucleotide polymorphisms in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

Methods

The study was conducted on 57 OSCC patients diagnosed within 2004–2013 along with 62 non‐OSCC subjects. DNA was extracted by standard kit protocol. Subsequently, tetra‐ARMS (amplification refractory mutation system)‐PCR was applied to identify the selected polymorphisms.

Results

Data showed that CT and TT genotypes of C677T polymorphisms significantly increased the risk of OSCC [odds ratio (OR) = 2.2, 95% CI: 1–5, P = 0.04]. Although allelic distribution was not significantly different between patients and controls, T allele of C677T polymorphism was closely associated with the risk of OSCC (OR = 2.5; 95% CI: 0.9–6.9; P = 0.07).

Results indicated that C677T/A1298C: CC/AC and C677T/A1298C: CC/AA haplotypes were the most common combinations in OSCC patient and control groups, respectively. (OR = 1.5, 95% CI: 0.6–3.8, P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Our results highlight the possible impact of C677T polymorphism in increasing the risk of OSCC development.
Forced Sexual Experiences and Sexual Situation Self‐Efficacy Among South African Youth
Authors: Miller Jacqueline A. , Smith Edward A. , Coffman Donna , Mathews Catherine , Wegner Lisa
Published: July 2015

Nearly 20% of South African youth experience forced or coerced sexual intercourse. Understanding the factors associated with forced sex is important for informing prevention programs aimed at reducing sexual violence and HIV and AIDS. Multilevel regression models test the association between sexual situation self‐efficacy and forced sex among 2,893 South African adolescents. Findings suggest that youth are more likely to experience forced sex after periods of time when their levels of self‐efficacy are lower than their average levels of self‐efficacy. Furthermore, youth who are lower on their self‐efficacy compared to their peers are more likely to experience forced sex. Implications for prevention research are discussed.
Co‐Creation with Customers: An Evolving Innovation Research Field
Authors: Gemser Gerda , Perks Helen
Published: July 2015

See virtual issue: Co‐creation with Customers: An Evolving Innovation Research Field
The CUPIC algorithm: an accurate model for the prediction of sustained viral response under telaprevir or boceprevir triple therapy in cirrhotic patients
Authors: Boursier J. , Ducancelle A. , Vergniol J. , Veillon P. , Moal V. , Dufour C. , Bronowicki J.‐P. , Larrey D. , Hézode C. , Zoulim F. , Fontaine H. , Canva V. , Poynard T. , Allam S. , De Lédinghen V. ,   the ANRS CO20 CUPIC Study Group
Published: July 2015

Triple therapy using boceprevir or telaprevir remains the reference treatment for genotype 1 chronic hepatitis C in countries where new interferon‐free regimens have not yet become available. Antiviral treatment is highly required in cirrhotic patients, but they represent a difficult‐to‐treat population. We aimed to develop a simple algorithm for the prediction of sustained viral response (SVR) in cirrhotic patients treated with triple therapy. A total of 484 cirrhotic patients from the ANRS CO20 CUPIC cohort treated with triple therapy were randomly distributed into derivation and validation sets. A total of 52.1% of patients achieved SVR. In the derivation set, a D0 score for the prediction of SVR before treatment initiation included the following independent predictors collected at day 0: prior treatment response, gamma‐GT, platelets, telaprevir treatment, viral load. To refine the prediction at the early phase of the treatment, a W4 score included as additional parameter the viral load collected at week 4. The D0 and W4 scores were combined in the CUPIC algorithm defining three subgroups: ‘no treatment initiation or early stop at week 4’, ‘undetermined’ and ‘SVR highly probable’. In the validation set, the rates of SVR in these three subgroups were, respectively, 11.1%, 50.0% and 82.2% (P < 0.001). By replacing the variable ‘prior treatment response’ with ‘IL28B genotype’, another algorithm was derived for treatment‐naïve patients with similar results. The CUPIC algorithm is an easy‐to‐use tool that helps physicians weigh their decision between immediately treating cirrhotic patients using boceprevir/telaprevir triple therapy or waiting for new drugs to become available in their country.
Using HED meteorites to interpret neutron and gamma‐ray data from asteroid 4 Vesta
Authors: Beck Andrew W. , Lawrence David J. , Peplowski Patrick N. , Prettyman Thomas H. , McCoy Timothy J. , McSween Harry Y. , Toplis Michael J. , Yamashita Naoyuki
Published: July 2015

Here, we construct a comprehensive howardite, eucrite, and diogenite (HED) bulk chemistry data set to compare with Dawn data. Using the bulk chemistry data set, we determine four gamma‐ray/neutron parameters in the HEDs (1) relative fast neutron counts (fast counts), (2) macroscopic thermal neutron absorption cross section (absorption), (3) a high‐energy gamma‐ray compositional parameter (Cp), and (4) Fe abundance. These correspond to the four measurements of Vesta made by Dawn's Gamma Ray and Neutron Detector (GRaND) that can be used to discern HED lithologic variability on the Vestan surface. We investigate covariance between fast counts and average atomic mass () in the meteorite data set, where a strong correlation (r2 = 0.99) is observed, and we demonstrate that systematic offsets from the fast count/ trend are linked to changes in Fe and Ni concentrations. To compare the meteorite and GRaND data, we investigate and report covariance among fast counts, absorption, Cp, and Fe abundance in the HED meteorite data set. We identify several GRaND measurement spaces where the Yamato type B diogenites are distinct from all other HED lithologies, including polymict mixtures. The type B's are diogenites that are enriched in Fe + pigeonite + diopside ± plagioclase, relative to typical, orthopyroxenitic diogenites. We then compare these results to GRaND data and demonstrate that regions north of ~70°N latitude on Vesta (including the north pole) are consistent with type B diogenites. We propose two models to explain type B diogenite compositions in the north (1) deposition as Rheasilvia ejecta, or (2) type B plutons that were emplaced at shallow depths in the north polar region and sampled by local impacts. Lastly, using principal component (PC) analysis, we identify unique PC spaces for all HED lithologies, indicating that the corresponding GRaND measurables may be used to produce comprehensive lithologic maps for Vesta.
Primulina hunanensis sp. nov. (Gesneriaceae) from a limestone area in southern Hunan, China
Authors: Cai Xiu‐Zhen , Tian Jing , Xiao Shun‐Yong , Peng Ling , Liu Ke‐Ming
Published: July 2015

A new species of Gesneriaceae, Primulina hunanensis, is described and illustrated from southern Hunnan, China. Morphologically, it is similar to P. cordata ( = Chirita cordifolia), but differs by having much larger leaves, broadly ovate or ovate bracts, 2–12 (–25)‐flowers, longer peduncle and purple corolla. It also resembles P. eburnea in the shape of the bracts and the colour of the corolla, but can be distinguished by longer petioles (9–25 cm long), cordate, ovate‐cordate or broadly ovate leaf lamina with rounded or obtuse apex, not entire leaf margin, and either cordate or deeply cordate leaf base. Detailed morphological description, diagnostic comparisons, habitat and micro‐morphology of seeds and pollen under SEM are presented.
Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease as a consequence of autonomic imbalance and circadian desynchronization
Authors: Sabath E. , Báez‐Ruiz A. , Buijs R. M.
Published: July 2015

The circadian system, headed by the suprachiasmatic nucleus, synchronizes behaviour and metabolism according to the external light–dark cycle through neuroendocrine and autonomic signals. Metabolic diseases, such as steatosis, obesity and glucose intolerance, have been associated with conditions of circadian misalignment wherein the feeding schedule has been moved to the resting phase. Here we describe the physiological processes involved in liver lipid accumulation and show how they follow a circadian pattern importantly regulated by both the autonomic nervous system and the feeding–fasting cycle. We propose that an unbalanced activity of the sympathetic–parasympathetic branches between organs induced by circadian misalignment provides the conditions for the development and progression of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease.