bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chinese traditionality and career success
Authors: Ngo Hang-yue , Li Hui
Published: October 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between Chinese traditionality (an individual-level cultural variable) and subjective career success in the Chinese context. It explores whether Chinese traditionality influences employees’ perceptions of procedural justice and job insecurity, which in turn affect their job and career satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

– Data were collected via employee survey from 482 workers in three large companies in China. The HR department helped us to distribute a self-administered questionnaire to the respondents. The authors assured them of confidentiality and protected their anonymity. Path analysis was used to evaluate the relationships in the conceptual model. For testing the mediating hypotheses, the authors employed Sobel tests and bootstrapping.

Findings

– The results indicate that Chinese traditionality is related to procedural justice and perceived job insecurity. The authors further found that Chinese traditionality exerts a significant effect on both job and career satisfaction, and such effects are fully mediated by procedural justice and perceived job insecurity.

Practical implications

– Based on the findings, Chinese firms should pay attention to employees’ cultural values and their perceptions of work context, which significantly affect their job and career satisfaction. It is also important to ensure a high level of procedural justice and job security as perceived by the employees.

Originality/value

– This study is the first exploration of the relationship between Chinese traditonality and subjective career success. It also reveals the mediating role of procedural justice and perceived job insecurity in the above relationship. The new findings add to the cross-cultural research on careers.
Yes Bank: Innovation in money transfer
Authors: Sawaikar Narasinha
Published: October 2015

Subject area

Banking, Emerging Markets, Innovation.

Study level/applicability

Undergraduate Business students and MBA students.

Case overview

This case describes the creation of YES MONEY: a domestic remittance service for migrant workers. Broadly, the case is about conceiving and deploying an information and communication technology-based solution for financial inclusion. It describes how Anand Bajaj, chief innovation officer at YES BANK, created a solution for migrant workers who wished to send their money to their families in rural India.

Expected learning outcomes

Gaining a better understanding of the process of creating new services, especially in the banking industry. Understanding the context in which YES BANK operated when it created YES MONEY. Drawing general lessons that can be applied to innovation, especially in emerging markets.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only. Please contact your library to gain login details or email support@emeraldinsight.com to request teaching notes.
Social innovation education: towards a framework for learning design
Authors: Alden Rivers Bethany , Armellini Alejandro , Maxwell Rachel , Allen Sue , Durkin Chris
Published: October 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to propose a theoretical framework to support the embedding of social innovation education in existing academic programmes.

Design/methodology/approach

– By adopting Conoleet al.’s (2004) methodological approach to reviewing, mapping and modelling learning theory, this study addresses four research questions: how can social innovation education be defined? Which learning theories best support social innovation education? How do such learning theories relate to existing models of learning in higher education? What implications does a social innovation pedagogy have for learning design?

Findings

– Findings suggest that social innovation education is supported by a praxis that is grounded in critical learning theory, transformational learning theory and epistemological development. By extending Conoleet al.’s (2004) model of learning theory, the present study proposes a “zone of pedagogical praxis for social innovation education” that supports learning design on a more critical plane.

Research limitations/implications

– The proposed model of learning may be of interest to other universities as they work towards stronger thinkers and stronger communities.

Practical implications

– Using a theory-informed model for learning design nurtures a pedagogical praxis and underpins the development of a practical toolkit for designing social innovation education.

Originality/value

– The findings of this study will provide a point of reference for other higher education institutions as they look for guidance on embedding principles of social innovation into their curricula.
Respiratory quinones in Archaea: phylogenetic distribution and application as biomarkers in the marine environment
Authors: Elling Felix J. , Becker Kevin W. , Könneke Martin , Schröder Jan M. , Kellermann Matthias Y. , Thomm Michael , Hinrichs Kai‐Uwe
Published: October 2015

The distribution of respiratory quinone electron carriers among cultivated organisms provides clues on both the taxonomy of their producers and the redox processes these are mediating. Our study of the quinone inventories of 25 archaeal species belonging to the phyla Eury‐, Cren‐ and Thaumarchaeota facilitates their use as chemotaxonomic markers for ecologically important archaeal clades. Saturated and monounsaturated menaquinones with six isoprenoid units forming the alkyl chain may serve as chemotaxonomic markers for Thaumarchaeota. Other diagnostic biomarkers are thiophene‐bearing quinones for Sulfolobales and methanophenazines as functional quinone analogues of the Methanosarcinales. The ubiquity of saturated menaquinones in the Archaea in comparison to Bacteria suggests that these compounds may represent an ancestral and diagnostic feature of the Archaea. Overlap between quinone compositions of distinct thermophilic and halophilic archaea and bacteria may indicate lateral gene transfer. The biomarker potential of thaumarchaeal quinones was exemplarily demonstrated on a water column profile of the Black Sea. Both, thaumarchaeal quinones and membrane lipids showed similar distributions with maxima at the chemocline. Quinone distributions indicate that Thaumarchaeota dominate respiratory activity at a narrow interval in the chemocline, while they contribute only 9% to the microbial biomass at this depth, as determined by membrane lipid analysis.
The allure of art and intellectual property: artisans and industrial replicas in Mexican cultural economies
Authors: Cant Alanna
Published: October 2015

This article considers the establishment of a collective trademark by Mexican artisans which occurred in response to the discovery of industrial replicas of Oaxacan woodcarvings, and it suggests that artisans’ appeals to intellectual property cannot be readily understood as resulting from the economic or cultural threat that the replicas ostensibly pose. By bringing an analysis of aesthetics and the desirability of art into anthropological discussions of intellectual property, I argue that intellectual property is appealing to cultural producers in such contexts because it seems to offer an opportunity to stabilize the ambiguities concerning the relationship between authorship and the allure of artworks within competitive cultural markets. I conclude that in this case, claims to intellectual property reveal concerns that are more about local practices than about foreign production.
Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Bran in Bread Making: A Critical Review
Authors: Hemdane Sami , Jacobs Pieter J. , Dornez Emmie , Verspreet Joran , Delcour Jan A. , Courtin Christophe M.
Published: October 2015

Wheat bran, a by‐product of the industrial roller milling of wheat, is increasingly added to food products because of its nutritional profile and physiological effects. Epidemiological data and scientific studies have demonstrated the health benefits of consuming bran‐rich or whole‐grain food products. However, incorporation of wheat bran in cereal‐based products negatively affects their production process. Furthermore, the organoleptic quality of the obtained products is mostly perceived as inferior to that of products based on refined wheat flour. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the impact of wheat bran on bread making, provides a comprehensive overview of the bran properties possibly involved, and discusses different strategies that have been evaluated up till now to counteract the detrimental effects of wheat bran on bread making.
Does low‐dose rifaximin ameliorate endotoxemia in patients with liver cirrhosis: a prospective study
Authors: Zeng Xin , Tang Xia Jiao , Sheng Xia , Ni Wu , Xin Hai Guang , Chen Wei Zhong , Jiang Cai Feng , Lin Yong , Shi Jian , Shi Bin , Chen Yue Xiang , Yuan Zong Li , Xie Wei Fen
Published: October 2015

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy, safety and tolerability of different doses of rifaximin in Chinese patients with liver cirrhosis.

Methods

This random prospective study included a screening visit, a 2‐week treatment period and a subsequent 4‐week observation phase. Patients with liver cirrhosis were randomly assigned to a low‐dose rifaximin group, a high‐dose rifaximin group and the control group in a ratio of 1:1:1. The low‐dose and high‐dose groups received 400 mg or 600 mg rifaximin per 12 h for 2 weeks, respectively. All other therapeutic strategies remained unchanged in the three groups as long as possible.

Results

In total, 60 patients with liver cirrhosis were screened and 43 of them met the eligibility criteria. After 2‐week treatment serum endotoxin levels in the low‐dose (1.1 ± 0.8 EU/mL) and high‐dose rifaximin groups (1.0 ± 0.8 EU/mL) were significantly lower than that in the control group (2.5 ± 1.8 EU/mL), while no significant difference was found between the two rifaximin‐treated groups. The effect of high‐dose rifaximin on endotoxemia lasted for at least 4 weeks after drug withdrawal. A significant reduction in the abundance of the Veillonellaceae taxa and an increase in the abundance of Bacteroidaceae were shown after 2 weeks of rifaximin therapy. The incidence of adverse events and severe adverse events was similar among the three groups.

Conclusion

Low‐dose (800 mg/day) rifaximin could be analogous to high‐dose (1200 mg/day) rifaximin to reduce the serum endotoxin level after 2 weeks of treatment.
In Vitro Testing of an Implantable Wireless Telemetry System for Long‐Term Electromyography Recordings in Large Animals
Authors: Kneisz Lukas , Unger Ewald , Lanmüller Hermann , Mayr Winfried
Published: October 2015

Multichannel bio‐signal recording in undisturbed in vivo conditions is a frequent demand in experimental work for development of methodology and associated equipment for functional electrical stimulation (FES) application, limb prosthesis, and diagnostic tools in contemporary rehabilitation efforts. Intramuscular electromyogram (EMG) recordings can provide comprehensive insight in complex interactions of agonistic and antagonistic muscles during movement tasks and in contrast act as reliable control signals for both neuroprosthesis and mechanical prosthesis. We fabricated a fully implantable device, which is capable of recording electromyography signals from inside a body and transmit these signals wirelessly to an external receiver. The developed analog front end uses only two electrodes per channel, provides a gain of 60 dB, and incorporates a band pass filter with lower cut‐off frequency of 4 Hz and upper cut‐off frequency of 480 Hz. The bidirectional wireless data link, which operates in the 2.4 GHz Industrial, Scientific and Medical band, is designed for transmission distances of 10 m using an application data rate of 1 kSps for each of the two channels. Performed in vitro tests with the devices coated in epoxy resin and inserted into a phantom with tissue‐equivalent characteristics confirmed the functionality of our concept and the measurement results are consistent with those from preceding simulations.
Effect of a single polymorphism in the Japanese quail NK‐lysin gene on antimicrobial activity
Authors: Ishige Taichiro , Hara Hiromi , Hirano Takashi , Kono Tomohiro , Hanzawa Kei
Published: October 2015

NK‐lysins are cationic peptides that play important roles in host protection, and are an important constituent of innate immunity. We identified nine single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the NK‐lysin open reading frame (ORF) from 32 Japanese quails in six strains: A, B, ND, K, P, and Y. The G to A substitution at nucleotide position 272 in the ORF resulted in a Gly (G) to Asp (D) amino acid substitution (Cj31G and Cj31D alleles). The Cj31D allele was detected in P (frequency 0.76) and Y (frequency 0.03) strains. We compared the antimicrobial activities of four synthetic peptides from the helix 2‐loop‐helix 3 region of avian NK‐lysins against Escherichia coli: Cj31G and Cj31D from quail and Gg29N and Gg29D from chicken. The antimicrobial activities of the four peptides decreased in the following order: Gg29N > Cj31G > Gg29D > Cj31D (P < 0.05). Although there were no differences in the predicted secondary structure of the Cj31G and Cj31D, the net charge of the Cj31G was higher than that of Cj31D. These data indicated that the antimicrobial activity of CjNKL is influenced by net charge, similar to that which has been observed in chicken. © 2015 Japanese Society of Animal Science
Life Aspirations: Their Impact on Family and Work Conflict and Life Satisfaction in Hong Kong and Taiwan
Authors: Chan Raymond K.H. , Wang Lih‐Rong
Published: October 2015

Family and work conflict (F/WC) has gained prominence in developed economies in Asia as individuals are faced with the increased demands from work and families that are still considered very important. Hong Kong and Taiwan best illustrate the changing social and economic conditions that have given rise to this conflict. In these two societies, people have demonstrated a strong emphasis on work, even when it entails the sacrifice of family tasks and duties. An array of informal and formal services have been mobilized to allow people to fulfill their duties to work and family. Based on surveys conducted in Hong Kong and Taiwan in late 2009, this paper investigated F/WC and life satisfaction. Specifically, it examined changing life aspirations, both material and non‐material, as predictors of F/WC and life satisfaction. The surveys found that respondents had high aspirations for both their family and their work, and for both material and non‐material assets, and that they experienced high‐level F/WC. Based on the statistical analysis, we argue that minimizing the interference of family life on work and emphasizing non‐material life aspirations could promote better life satisfaction.
Abnormal regulation of fibronectin production by fibroblasts in psoriasis
Authors: Gubán B. , Vas K. , Balog Z. , Manczinger M. , Bebes A. , Groma G. , Széll M. , Kemény L. , Bata-Csörgő Z.
Published: October 2015

Background

Data indicate that in psoriasis, abnormalities are already present in nonlesional skin. Transforming growth factor-β and keratinocyte growth factor (KGF), together with fibronectin and α5β1 integrin, were suggested to play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis by influencing inflammation and keratinocyte hyperproliferation.

Objectives

To investigate the expression of KGF, fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR)2, fibronectin (FN) and extra domain A (EDA)-positive FN in healthy and nonlesional psoriatic skin, and to study the effect of KGF on the regulation of FN and EDA+FN production by fibroblasts.

Methods

Healthy, nonlesional psoriatic skin and lesional psoriatic skin were immunostained for α5 integrin, KGF, FGFR2, EDA+FN and signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)1. KGF-treated cell cultures were analysed for FN and EDA+FN mRNA and protein by real-time reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction and flow cytometry, respectively. The major downstream signalling of KGF was investigated by blocking experiments using inhibitors of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) kinase (MEK1), AKT1/2, STAT1 and STAT3.

Results

The expression of α5 integrin, EDA+FN, KGF and its receptor FGFR2 is elevated in psoriatic nonlesional skin compared with healthy skin. KGF mildly induced EDA+FN, but not FN expression in healthy fibroblasts through MAPK signalling. Fibroblasts express the FGFR2-IIIc splice variant. STAT1 negatively regulates both FN and EDA+FN expression in healthy fibroblasts, and this regulation is compromised in fibroblasts derived from nonlesional psoriatic dermis. We detected active STAT1 in healthy and lesional skin, similarly to a previous report. However, in the nonlesional skin STAT1 activation was absent in tissues far away from lesions.

Conclusions

The production of FN and EDA+FN by fibroblasts and the signalling of STAT1 are abnormally regulated in psoriatic nonlesional skin.
Variations in annual winter mean temperature in South China since 1736
Authors: Ding Lingling , Ge Quansheng , Zheng Jingyun , Hao Zhixin
Published: October 2015

Modern meteorological observations in South China from 1960 to 2009 show a strong correlation between winter temperatures and two snowfall parameters, the southern boundary of the snow and the number of snowy days. Based on this relationship, the variation in annual winter mean temperature in South China from 1736 to 2009 was reconstructed using data acquired from Chinese historical documents dating from the Qing dynasty, such as memos and local gazettes. The reconstructed time series were used to analyse variations in winter temperature in South China. Significant interannual and interdecadal changes were found. The maximum temperature difference between neighbouring years was 3.1 °C for 1958–2009 and 3.0 °C for 1736–1957, whereas the maximum temperature difference between adjacent decades was 0.8 °C for the 1960s–2000s and 0.6 °C for the 1740s–1950s. The 2000s was the warmest decade; the mean temperature was 1.6 °C higher than that of the 1870s, which was the coldest decade between the 1740s and the 2000s. The mean winter temperature was warmer in the 18th and 20th centuries and coldest in the 19th century.
Editorial: Looked‐after children – a perspective into a more resilient future
Authors: Pinto Carmen , Woolgar Matt
Published: October 2015

Looked after children (LAC) are among the most vulnerable group in our society in terms of their risk of a range of poor outcomes including mental health, educational attainments and social wellbeing. Over the past decade, it has become increasingly clear that LAC have a higher prevalence of mental health problems than the general population, including children living with their families in “high‐risk” populations. These children present with high rates of, both emotional and behavioural problems, and also neurodevelopmental problems. This Editorial highlights a collection of 10 articles and accompanying Introduction for a Virtual Issue on LAC, published as a free resource at: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/10.1111/(ISSN)1475-3588/homepage/LAC.htm.
The impact of surface roughness and permeability in hydroxyapatite bone regeneration membranes
Authors: Anderud Jonas , Jimbo Ryo , Abrahamsson Peter , Adolfsson Erik , Malmström Johan , Wennerberg Ann
Published: October 2015

Background

One of the crucial aspects in guided bone regeneration is the space maintenance. This is normally created by a membrane, which should primarily be accepted by the surrounding tissues without causing any adverse reactions. The impact of surface topography, biological acceptance as well as permeability of these membranes has been carefully discussed in the literature.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate histologically the bone forming properties inside of hollow hydroxyapatite space‐maintaining devices with different inner surfaces and different permeabilities in an animal calvaria model in vivo.

Materials and methods

A total of 36 hollow domes with three different designs made of hydroxyapatite were surgically attached to the skulls of rabbits. Group 1 had a moderately rough inner surface. Group 2 had a smooth inner surface. Group 3 had the same properties as Group 1 but had macroscopic holes on the top. The domes were left to heal for 12 weeks and were then processed for undecalcified ground sectioning. Histological evaluations were performed using a light microscope and scanning electron microscopy. The bone–implant contact (BIC) percentage along the device was calculated.

Results

The median percentage of BIC was higher for Group 1 compared with Group 2 (P = 0.004). Group 1 produced a larger median BIC compared with Group 3 (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Within the limits of this preclinical study, these findings suggest that a moderately rough inner surface of a ceramic membrane along with a non‐permeable device produces more bone than a smooth inner surface.
EXERCISING WILLPOWER: DIFFERENCES IN WILLPOWER DEPLETION AMONG ATHLETES AND NONATHLETES
Authors: Hoffer Adam , Giddings Lisa
Published: October 2015

This study presents the results from a controlled experiment designed to test for differences in willpower depletion between athletes and nonathletes. Individuals with more willpower are more likely to have high school and college degrees, higher earnings, better jobs, lower crime and poverty rates, and are less likely to be obese. Recent research has established that reserves of willpower get depleted, leaving individuals unable to carry out tasks that require further self‐control. The experimental results show that after administering a willpower‐draining task, athletes persisted for significantly longer—exhibited less willpower depletion—on an unsolvable puzzle than nonathletes. (JEL C91, J24)
Effects of a respiratory physiotherapy session in patients with LRTI: a pre/post‐test study
Authors: Oliveira Ana , Pinho Cátia , Marques Alda
Published: October 2015

Introduction

The role of respiratory physiotherapy (RP) in lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI) has been questioned. However, studies have focused on hospitalised patients, and the presence/absence of an underlying disease has been neglected.

Objectives

To assess the effects of a RP session in community patients with LRTI and to explore the differences between patients with pneumonia (restrictive disease – AR) and those with exacerbations of an obstructive disease (AO).

Methods

A pre/post‐test study was conducted. A RP session was applied to patients with LRTI and crackles, wheezes, dyspnoea, perception of sputum and oxygen saturation were collected pre/post session. Comparisons were performed using paired t‐tests or Wilcoxon tests.

Results

Thirty patients (14 males, 55.23 ± 17.78 years) with pneumonia (AR, n = 12), exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, acute bronchitis and asthma (AO, n = 18) were enrolled. After treatment, the total sample presented lower wheeze rates at trachea (P = 0.02; r = −0.54) and less sputum (P = 0.01; r = −0.47). AR patients presented a decrease in the number of crackles (P < 0.05; 0.30 < dz < 0.26) and number and rate of wheezes at chest locations (P < 0.05; −0.56 < r < −0.48). AO patients showed an increase in the number of crackles (P < 0.05; 0.20 <dz <0.31), wheeze frequency (P = 0.03; r = −0.27) and dyspnoea (P = 0.04; r = −0.55); and a decrease in the number of wheezes at trachea (P = 0.02; r = −0.54).

Conclusions

RP seems effective in reducing wheezes and perception of sputum in patients with LRTI. However, when considering AR and AO diseases separately, further changes in respiratory sounds and dyspnoea emerged. This highlights the importance of considering subgroups of patients with LRTI to develop RP evidence‐base practice.
Landscape‐scale determinants of native and non‐native Great Plains fish distributions
Authors: Stewart David R. , Walters Annika W. , Rahel Frank J.
Published: October 2015

Aim

Landscape‐scale factors may have differential effects on the distribution of native and non‐native fishes and may help explain invasion success and species declines.

Location

Great Plains, Wyoming, USA

Methods

We used hierarchical Bayesian mixture models and constrained ordination techniques to evaluate associations between landscape‐scale factors on native and non‐native fish species richness, reproductive guilds and individual species distributions.

Results

Predicted responses between landscape‐scale factors and native and non‐native fish species richness were similar, except non‐native fish species richness that was positively associated with density of oil and gas wells. Non‐native fish species richness was also positively associated with native fish species richness. Spawning guild composition differed between native and non‐native fishes. Canonical correspondence analysis revealed that the most abundant non‐native and only a few native species were positively associated with oil and gas wells.

Main conclusions

The similar relationships between native and non‐native fish species richness are likely evidence that they share similar ecological rules, which supports that non‐native species become naturalized and they may be affected by the same environmental factors that determine distribution of native species.
An Entropy‐Based Methodology for Valuation of Demand Uncertainty Reduction
Authors: Fleischhacker Adam J. , Fok Pak‐Wing
Published: October 2015

We propose a distribution‐free entropy‐based methodology to calculate the expected value of an uncertainty reduction effort and present our results within the context of reducing demand uncertainty. In contrast to existing techniques, the methodology does not require a priori assumptions regarding the underlying demand distribution, does not require sampled observations to be the mechanism by which uncertainty is reduced, and provides an expectation of information value as opposed to an upper bound. In our methodology, a decision maker uses his existing knowledge combined with the maximum entropy principle to model both his present and potential future states of uncertainty as probability densities over all possible demand distributions. Modeling uncertainty in this way provides for a theoretically justified and intuitively satisfying method of valuing an uncertainty reduction effort without knowing the information to be revealed. We demonstrate the methodology's use in three different settings: (i) a newsvendor valuing knowledge of expected demand, (ii) a short life cycle product supply manager considering the adoption of a quick response strategy, and (iii) a revenue manager making a pricing decision with limited knowledge of the market potential for his product.
Meta‐cognitive skills training enhances computerized cognitive remediation outcomes among individuals with first‐episode psychosis
Authors: Breitborde Nicholas J.K. , Woolverton Cindy , Dawson Spencer C. , Bismark Andrew , Bell Emily K. , Bathgate Christina J. , Norman Kaila
Published: October 2015

Aim

Meta‐cognitive skills training (MST) is a frequent component of cognitive remediation programmes for individuals with psychosis. However, no study has investigated whether incorporating such activities produces increased clinical benefits compared with computerized cognitive remediation alone.

Methods

Individuals with first‐episode psychosis who completed computerized cognitive remediation with concurrent meta‐cognitive skills training (CCR + MST) were compared with a historical control group who received computerized cognitive remediation alone (CCR) and did not differ from the CCR + MST group with regard to pre‐intervention cognition, diagnosis, age, duration of psychotic illness or sex. Participants completed assessments of cognition and real‐world functioning before and after 6 months of treatment.

Results

Individual receiving CCR + MST experience greater gains in cognition and real‐world functioning than individuals who received CCR.

Conclusions

MST may be an important component within cognitive remediation programmes for first‐episode psychosis.
Perirhinal cortex lesions impair tests of object recognition memory but spare novelty detection
Authors: Olarte‐Sánchez Cristian M. , Amin Eman , Warburton E. Clea , Aggleton John P.
Published: October 2015

The present study examined why perirhinal cortex lesions in rats impair the spontaneous ability to select novel objects in preference to familiar objects, when both classes of object are presented simultaneously. The study began by repeating this standard finding, using a test of delayed object recognition memory. As expected, the perirhinal cortex lesions reduced the difference in exploration times for novel vs. familiar stimuli. In contrast, the same rats with perirhinal cortex lesions appeared to perform normally when the preferential exploration of novel vs. familiar objects was tested sequentially, i.e. when each trial consisted of only novel or only familiar objects. In addition, there was no indication that the perirhinal cortex lesions reduced total levels of object exploration for novel objects, as would be predicted if the lesions caused novel stimuli to appear familiar. Together, the results show that, in the absence of perirhinal cortex tissue, rats still receive signals of object novelty, although they may fail to link that information to the appropriate object. Consequently, these rats are impaired in discriminating the source of object novelty signals, leading to deficits on simultaneous choice tests of recognition.
A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, multicenter, parallel‐group study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of adjunctive brivaracetam in adult patients with uncontrolled partial‐onset seizures
Authors: Klein Pavel , Schiemann Jimmy , Sperling Michael R. , Whitesides John , Liang Wei , Stalvey Tracy , Brandt Christian , Kwan Patrick
Published: October 2015

Objective

Brivaracetam (BRV), a selective and high‐affinity synaptic vesicle protein 2A ligand, is in development as adjunctive treatment for partial‐onset (focal) seizures (POS). This phase 3 study (N01358; NCT01261325) aimed to confirm the efficacy and safety/tolerability of BRV in adults (≥16–80 years) with POS.

Methods

This randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, multicenter study enrolled patients with uncontrolled POS despite ongoing treatment with 1–2 antiepileptic drugs. Patients exposed to levetiracetam ≤90 days before visit 1 were excluded. Patients entered an 8‐week prospective baseline period, followed by a 12‐week treatment period when they were randomized 1:1:1 to placebo (PBO), BRV 100 mg/day, or BRV 200 mg/day, started without up‐titration. The co‐primary efficacy outcomes were percent reduction over placebo in 28‐day adjusted POS frequency, and ≥50% responder rate based on percent reduction in POS frequency from baseline to the treatment period.

Results

Seven hundred sixty‐eight patients were randomized; 760 were included in the efficacy analysis: 259, 252, and 249 in PBO, BRV 100 mg/day, and BRV 200 mg/day groups, respectively. Percent reduction over PBO in 28‐day adjusted seizure frequency (95% confidence interval [CI]) was 22.8% for BRV 100 mg/day (13.3–31.2%; p < 0.001) and 23.2% for BRV 200 mg/day (13.8–31.6%; p < 0.001). The ≥50% responder rate (odds ratio vs. PBO; 95% CI) was 21.6% for PBO, 38.9% for BRV 100 mg/day (2.39; 1.6–3.6; p < 0.001), and 37.8% for BRV 200 mg/day (2.19; 1.5–3.3; p < 0.001). Treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAEs) occurred in 155 (59.4%) of 261 PBO patients versus 340 (67.6%) of 503 BRV‐treated patients (safety population). Discontinuation rates due to TEAEs were 3.8%, 8.3%, and 6.8% for PBO, BRV 100 mg/day, and BRV 200 mg/day, respectively. Most frequent TEAEs (PBO versus BRV) were somnolence (7.7% vs. 18.1%), dizziness (5.0% vs. 12.3%), and fatigue (3.8% vs. 9.5%).

Significance

Adjunctive BRV 100 and 200 mg/day was efficacious in reducing POS in adults without concomitant levetiracetam use and was well tolerated.
Catalytic activity of human carbonic anhydrase isoform IX is displayed both extra‐ and intracellularly
Authors: Klier Michael , Jamali Somayeh , Ames Samantha , Schneider Hans‐Peter , Becker Holger M. , Deitmer Joachim W.
Published: October 2015

Most carbonic anhydrases catalyse the reversible conversion of carbon dioxide to protons and bicarbonate, either as soluble cytosolic enzymes, in or at intracellular organelles, or at the extracellular face of the cell membrane as membrane‐anchored proteins. Carbonic anhydrase isoform IX (CA IX), a membrane‐bound enzyme with catalytic activity at the extracellular membrane surface, has come to prominence in recent years because of its association with hypoxic tissue, particularly tumours, often indicating poor prognosis. We have evaluated the catalytic activity of CA IX heterologously expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes by measuring the amplitude and rate of cytosolic pH changes as well as pH changes at the outer membrane surface (pHs) during addition and removal of 5% CO2/25 mm , and by mass spectrometry. Our results indicate both extracellular and intracellular catalytic activity of CA IX. Reduced rates of CO2‐dependent intracellular pH changes after knockdown of CA IX confirmed these findings in two breast cancer cell lines: MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231. Our results demonstrate a new function of CA IX that may be important in the search for therapeutic cancer drugs targeting CA IX.
Fish reduce anuran abundance and decrease herpetofaunal species richness in wetlands
Authors: Holbrook Joshua D. , Dorn Nathan J.
Published: October 2015

For aquatic herpetofaunal species, two of the possible determinants of density and local species composition are fish presence or absence and hydroperiod; factors which are sometimes, but not always, correlated.

We quantified wetland herpetofaunal assemblages in 20 wetlands that varied in both attributes (in south‐eastern Florida, U.S.A.) to examine the effects of fish, wetland permanence and their potential interaction.

Fish presence significantly reduced the density of five anuran species and reduced overall species richness.

Wetland permanence had no measured effect on composition or richness of herpetofaunal assemblages.

Three anuran species (including the imperilled Gopher Frog, Rana capito) were absent from most of the wetlands with fish and capture rates of two larger generalist ranids (Rana grylio, R. sphenocephala) were significantly lower in the presence of fish. No species of anuran was captured more frequently when fish were present.

Non‐permanent wetlands are often perceived to be quality anuran habitat, but such a perception may be incorrect for wetlands that rapidly recolonise with fish. Dredging and ditching of otherwise temporary wetlands, and fish stocking, may lead to local, and potentially regional, reductions in anuran breeding habitats, especially for faunal assemblages that lack anurans that thrive when fish are present.
Translation, cross‐cultural adaptation and validation of the Quality of Life Evaluation in Epidermolysis Bullosa instrument in Brazilian Portuguese
Authors: Cestari Tania , Prati Clarissa , Menegon Doris B. , Prado Oliveira Zilda N. , Machado Maria Cecília R. , Dumet Juliana , Nakano Juliana , Murrell Dédée F.
Published: October 2015

Background

The Quality of Life Evaluation in Epidermolysis Bullosa (QoLEB) questionnaire was developed for use in English‐speaking individuals.

Objectives

The aims of this study were to translate the QoLEB into Brazilian Portuguese, to culturally adapt it, and to verify its reliability and validity.

Methods

The study followed the steps proposed by the World Health Organization, which include: translation; evaluation by a panel of experts and patients; back translation; and linguistic and cultural adaptation. All subjects were examined and assessed using the QoLEB and the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) or the Children's Dermatology Life Quality Index (CDLQI). Translation and cultural and linguistic adaptation were conducted by 10 patients, three translators, and the bilingual authors.

Results

The population was composed of 40 children (mean age: 8,15 years) and 17 adults (mean age: 33 years). Among the children, eight had epidermolysis bullosa (EB) simplex (EBS), one had junctional EB (JEB), and 31 had dystrophic EB (DEB). In the adult group, four of the subjects had EBS, one had JEB, and 12 had DEB. Mean ± standard deviation (SD) scores on the QoLEB in children were 10.60 ± 7.13 in EBS subjects, 9.71 ± 7.87 in children with dominant DEB (DDEB), and 14.25 ± 9.67 in children with recessive DEB (RDEB). Mean ± SD scores in adults were 12.50 ± 9.95 in EBS subjects, 12.00 ± 5.83 in DDEB subjects, and 20.20 ± 9.21 in RDEB subjects. The QoLEB‐BP (Brazilian Portuguese) showed high internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.88) and high test–retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient: 0.70), confirming the internal consistency and reproducibility of this Portuguese version. There were significant correlations between QoLEB scores and both CDLQI (Pearson's r = 0.688, P < 0.002) and DLQI (Pearson's r = 0.807, P < 0.001) scores.

Conclusions

Epidermolysis bullosa has marked impacts on the lives of EB patients and their families, which are strongly correlated with disease severity. The Brazilian Portuguese version of the QoLEB is validated and can be recommended for use in subsequent studies.
Quantification of sweat secretion in focal axillary hyperhidrosis related to area and time: the hyperhidrosis area and secretion index
Authors: Bahmer Friedrich A.
Published: October 2015

Background

Severity of focal axillary hyperhidrosis (FAH) hitherto is estimated semiquantitatively by weighting the secreted sweat with the sweating area visualized by iodine starch test. In this study, we quantified secretion (mg/cm2 per min) simply by estimating the sweating area morphometrically via point counting. We have named the numeric value obtained the hyperhidrosis area and secretion index (HASI).

Methods

In 183 patients (146 women, 37 men) with focal axillary hyperhidrosis, seen in a city hospital outpatient clinic, sweat secretion was assessed by gravimetry and the area of Minor's iodine–starch test determined by point counting. Values were analyzed with respect to gender, age, and body surface area.

Results

HASI values, combined for both axillae, ranged from 0.21 to 22.8 mg/cm2 per minute with only minor gender differences. Men had larger sweating areas than women did. The comparison of left to right side axillae did not disclose substantial differences. No correlation was found between age and HASI values. A subgroup analysis of 91 patients showed a good correlation of HASI values with body surface area.

Conclusion

HASI allows for a quantification of sweat secretion per time interval and area unit, thus facilitating pre‐ and post‐test assessment of sweat intensity as well as a comparison between the results of different studies.
The effects of the El Niño Southern Oscillation on skin and skin‐related diseases: a message from the International Society of Dermatology Climate Change Task Force
Authors: Andersen Louise K. , Davis Mark D. P.
Published: October 2015

The El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is a complex climate phenomenon occurring in the Pacific Ocean at intervals of 2–7 years. The term refers to fluctuations in ocean temperatures in the tropical eastern Pacific Ocean (El Niño [the warm phase of ENSO] and La Niña [the cool phase of ENSO]) and in atmospheric pressure across the Pacific basin (Southern Oscillation). This weather pattern is attributed with causing climate change in certain parts of the world and is associated with disease outbreaks. The question of how ENSO affects skin and skin‐related disease is relatively unanswered. We aimed to review the literature describing the effects of this complex weather pattern on skin. El Niño has been associated with increases in the occurrence of actinic keratosis, tinea, pityriasis versicolor, miliaria, folliculitis, rosacea, dermatitis by Paederus irritans and Paederus sabaeus, and certain vector‐borne and waterborne diseases, such as dengue fever, leishmaniasis, Chagas' disease, Barmah Forest virus, and leptospirosis, and with decreases in the occurrence of dermatitis, scabies, psoriasis, and papular urticaria. La Niña has been associated with increases in the occurrence of varicella, hand, foot, and mouth disease, and Ross River virus (in certain areas), and decreases in viral warts and leishmaniasis. Reports on the effects of ENSO on skin and skin‐related disease are limited, and more studies could be helpful in the future.
Issues Most Important to Parents After Their Children's Suicide Attempt: A Pilot Delphi Study
Authors: Hickey Kari , Rossetti Jeanette , Strom Jan , Bryant Kelly
Published: October 2015

Problem

Suicide is the third leading cause of death for people aged 15–24 and results in 4,600 lives lost each year. One important risk factor for completed suicide is a nonlethal suicide attempt. To date, little research has been conducted on the needs of parents of adolescents who have made a nonlethal suicide attempt.

Methods

The goal of this pilot study was to describe the most important concerns of parents whose children have made a nonlethal suicide attempt from the perspective of adolescent mental health professionals. A two‐round Delphi technique was utilized with an interdisciplinary panel of adolescent mental health experts to gain consensus on what issues are most important to parents after their children's suicide attempt.

Findings

Panelists described the following as most important to parents after their children's nonlethal suicide attempt: keeping their children safe; identifying what caused or triggered the suicide attempt; strategies to prevent another suicide attempt; and communication and building trust for the future.

Conclusions

An advanced understanding of the issues most important to parents whose children have made a nonlethal suicide attempt has implications for clinicians in creating acceptable and useful interventions aimed at preventing youth suicide.
Longitudinal effects of systemic inflammation markers on periodontitis
Authors: Pink Christiane , Kocher Thomas , Meisel Peter , Dörr Marcus , Markus Marcello R. P. , Jablonowski Lukasz , Grotevendt Anne , Nauck Matthias , Holtfreter Birte
Published: October 2015

Aim

Systemic low‐grade inflammation represents a central hallmark of chronic diseases and has been proposed as the underlying mechanism linking factors like obesity or diabetes with periodontitis. However, the impact of inflammatory markers on periodontitis has not yet been investigated.

Materials and Methods

The study population comprised 1784 subjects from the Study of Health in Pomerania with complete 11‐year follow‐up. Fibrinogen and white blood cell (WBC) counts were measured as markers of inflammation. Periodontitis was assessed by probing depth (PD), clinical attachment loss (CAL) and the CDC/AAP case definition.

Results

Multilevel regression analyses revealed significant coefficients for the impact of both inflammation markers on the percentage of sites with PD/CAL ≥ 3 mm. Increases in fibrinogen about 1 g/l were associated with 3.0% and 2.7% more sites with PD/CAL ≥ 3 mm respectively. Consistent associations were found using mean values of PD/CAL but not using missing teeth or caries. Regarding the CDC/AAP case definition, 11‐year changes in fibrinogen and WBC counts were significantly associated with ≥1 category progression (OR: 1.36 and 1.11).

Conclusions

Fibrinogen levels and WBC counts showed consistent long‐term associations with PD, CAL and the CDC/AAP case definition. Results indicate that systemic low‐grade inflammation might indeed represent one possible pathway for effects of obesity, diabetes or other chronic inflammatory conditions on periodontitis.
2'‐Hydroxyflavanone ameliorates mesenteric angiogenesis and portal‐systemic collaterals in rats with liver fibrosis
Authors: Hsin I‐Fang , Lee Jing‐Yi , Huo Teh‐Ia , Lee Fa‐Yauh , Huang Hui‐Chun , Hsu Shao‐Jung , Wang Sun‐Sang , Ho Hsin‐Ling , Lin Han‐Chieh , Lee Shou‐Dong
Published: October 2015

Background and Aim

Portal‐systemic collaterals lead to dreadful consequences in patients with cirrhosis. Angiogenesis participates in the development of liver fibrosis, hyperdynamic circulation, and portal‐systemic collaterals. 2′‐Hydroxyflavanone (2′‐HF), one of the citrus fruits flavonoids, is known to have antiangiogenesis effect without adverse response. However, the relevant effects in liver fibrosis have not been surveyed.

Methods

Male Wistar rats received thioacetamide (TAA, 100 mg/kg tiw, i.p.) for 6 weeks to induce liver fibrosis. On the 29th to 42nd day, rats randomly received 2′‐HF (100 mg/kg, qod, i.p.) or vehicle (corn oil). On the 43rd day, after hemodynamic measurements, the followings were surveyed: (i) severity of collaterals; (ii) mesenteric angiogenesis; (iii) mesenteric proangiogenic factors protein expressions; (iv) Mesenteric vascular endothelial cells apoptosis; and (v) Mesenteric expressions of proteins regulating apoptosis.

Results

Compared with the vehicle group, 2′‐HF did not significantly change body weight, mean arterial pressure, heart rate, and portal pressure in TAA rats. 2′‐HF significantly alleviated the severity of collaterals, but the mesenteric phospho‐ERK, ERK, phospho‐Akt, Akt, COX1, COX2, VEGF, and VEGFR‐2 protein expressions were not altered. The apoptotic index of 2′‐HF group was significantly higher and the mesenteric protein expressions of pro‐apoptotic factors, NFkB 50, NFkB 65, Bax, phospho‐p53, 17 kD cleaved caspase 3, and 17 kD casepase 3 were up‐regulated.

Conclusions

2′‐HF does not influence the hemodynamics but alleviated the severity of collaterals in rats with liver fibrosis and early portal hypertension. This is, at least partly, attributed to enhanced apoptosis of mesenteric vascular endothelial cells.
Evolution and protein interactions of AP2 proteins in Brassicaceae: Evidence linking development and environmental responses
Authors: Zeng Liping , Yin Yue , You Chenjiang , Pan Qianli , Xu Duo , Jin Taijie , Zhang Bailong , Ma Hong
Published: October 2015

Plants have evolved a large number of transcription factors (TF), which are enriched among duplicate genes, highlighting their roles in complex regulatory networks. The APETALA2/EREBP‐like genes constitute a large plant TF family and participate in development and stress responses. To probe the conservation and divergence of AP2/EREBP genes, we analyzed the duplication patterns of this family in Brassicaceae and identified interacting proteins of representative Arabidopsis AP2/EREBP proteins. We found that many AP2/EREBP duplicates generated early in Brassicaceae history were quickly lost, but many others were retained in all tested Brassicaceae species, suggesting early functional divergence followed by persistent conservation. In addition, the sequences of the AP2 domain and exon numbers were highly conserved in rosids. Furthermore, we used 16 A. thaliana AP2/EREBP proteins as baits in yeast screens and identified 1,970 potential AP2/EREBP‐interacting proteins, with a small subset of interactions verified in planta. Many AP2 genes also exhibit reduced expression in an anther‐defective mutant, providing a possible link to developmental regulation. The putative AP2‐interacting proteins participate in many functions in development and stress responses, including photomorphogenesis, flower development, pathogenesis, drought and cold responses, abscisic acid and auxin signaling. Our results present the AP2/EREBP evolution patterns in Brassicaceae, and support a proposed interaction network of AP2/EREBP proteins and their putative interacting proteins for further study.