bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chasing value offerings through green supply chain innovation
Authors: Kronborg Jensen Jesper , Balslev Munksgaard Kristin , Stentoft Arlbjørn Jan
Published: February 2013

Purpose

The need for innovations to achieve economically viable and green supply chains has been illuminated in recent literature. Closed‐loop supply chains are part of green supply chain management and include traditional forward supply‐chain activities as well as additional activities of the reverse supply chain. Extant supply chain literature calls for a chain perspective in order to avoid sub‐optimization in the chain since changes at one stage can affect the performance at other stages. The purpose of the paper is to analyze how implementation of green supply chain innovations can enhance value offerings along the supply chain.

Design/methodology/approach

This research is based on an explorative, single‐embedded case study of a food supply chain. The case is concerned with implementation of green supply chain innovation in terms of biogas technology. The single case comprises four actors in the food supply chain: a retailer, an industrial bakery, a mill, and a farmer. Data collection is based on semi‐structured interviews with persons responsible for sustainability in the respective companies.

Findings

The case demonstrates that in order to reach the full potential of a green supply chain innovation, the different supply chain actors must be included. What in isolation of one company's perspective is perceived as a waste can be transformed to a value when the problem area is analysed from a chain perspective.

Research limitations/implications

The paper is based on a single case study that does not provide static generalizations, and it represents the first step on a road to building new theory about green supply chain innovations. Future research can expand the findings by elaborating upon cases of other types of supply chains and supply chain innovations.

Practical implications

The perception of waste in a supply chain can be changed through green supply chain innovations. This case illustrates how obsolete food products at the retail level, which traditionally have been perceived as a waste product with related discarding costs, can be regarded as a valued input by implementation of biogas technology at the industrial bakery company. As a result, other food supply chains can investigate similar solutions.

Originality/value

The paper provides a case that visualizes how value offerings along a food supply chain can be chased through green supply chain innovations. Furthermore, the paper applies a supply chain perspective not only conceptually but also empirically. By focusing on the interfaces between each main actor in the supply chain, this paper contributes to existing research with valuable knowledge of inter‐organizational issues related to challenges of supply chain innovation.
The bi‐modal organization
Authors: Smith Peter A.C. , Sharicz Carol Ann
Published: February 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assist an organization to restructure as a bi‐modal organization in order to achieve sustainability in today's highly complex business world.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is conceptual and is based on relevant literature and the authors' research and practice.

Findings

Although fluid self‐organizing networks are the natural state for humankind, in most organizations “organizing” entails the process of autopoiesis. This process does not produce the open fluid organization that is required for success in today's business world. While autopoiesis is taking place, informal socialization is taking place across the organization's interpersonal networks. Under supportive conditions, this leads to the development of a bi‐modal organization where one or more open systems may emerge and co‐exist concurrently with the autopoietic system; these open systems include fluid networks and complex adaptive system. The bi‐modal organization achieves sustainability by balancing a certain amount of organization versus a certain amount of instability, leading to predictability with disorder, and planned long‐term strategy achieved through many concurrent short‐term actions.

Research limitations/implications

Future research will involve an empirical study that will further examine the bi‐modal organization, its development, and its properties.

Practical implications

The systems that surround a business organization now and for the foreseeable future are highly dynamic, competitive, and socially individualized, and demand a new organizational form and competencies that may only be exhibited by a bi‐modal organization based on an open system. The paper describes how an organization can restructure to become a bi‐modal organization.

Social implications

The paper should help improve quality of work‐life and organizational structure.

Originality/value

The paper describes a new organizational form designed to flourish in today's complex business contexts.
Distributed recycling of waste polymer into RepRap feedstock
Authors: Baechler Christian , DeVuono Matthew , Pearce Joshua M.
Published: February 2013

Purpose

A low‐cost, open source, self‐replicating rapid prototyper (RepRap) has been developed, which greatly expands the potential user base of rapid prototypers. The operating cost of the RepRap can be further reduced using waste polymers as feedstock. Centralized recycling of polymers is often uneconomic and energy intensive due to transportation embodied energy. The purpose of this paper is to provide a proof of concept for high‐value recycling of waste polymers at distributed creation sites.

Design/methodology/approach

Previous designs of waste plastic extruders (also known as RecycleBots) were evaluated using a weighted evaluation matrix. An updated design was completed and the description and analysis of the design is presented including component summary, testing procedures, a basic life cycle analysis and extrusion results. The filament was tested for consistency of density and diameter while quantifying electricity consumption.

Findings

Filament was successfully extruded at an average rate of 90 mm/min and used to print parts. The filament averaged 2.805 mm diameter with 87 per cent of samples between 2.540 mm and 3.081 mm. The average mass was 0.564 g/100 mm length. Energy use was 0.06 kWh/m.

Practical implications

The success of the RecycleBot further reduces RepRap operating costs, which enables distributed in‐home, value added, plastic recycling. This has implications for municipal waste management programs, as in‐home recycling could reduce cost and greenhouse gas emissions associated with waste collection and transportation, as well as the environmental impact of manufacturing custom plastic parts.

Originality/value

This paper reports on the first technical evaluation of a feedstock filament for the RepRap from waste plastic material made in a distributed recycling device.
Health and wellbeing boards and service transformation
Authors: Wilderspin John
Published: February 2013

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to provide an overview of issues being faced, and likely to have to be faced, in establishing effective health and wellbeing boards.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based the perspective of the Department of Health's lead for implementation of these boards. Set in the context of national policy expectation, it draws on the early experiences of board development all over the country; and on discussions and seminars held to test their practical implications.

Findings

Transformation of the current pattern of services is needed to meet the preferred needs of the public. This is a major challenge at local level, and the leadership capacity and style of the new boards, and their communication skill, will be vital to the creation of responsive integrated services.

Originality/value

The paper draws together current thinking on a key policy initiative of the current government, and links it directly to integrated health and social care.
Influence of TiO2 nanocontainers on hybrid organic‐inorganic coatings for corrosion protection of magnesium alloy
Authors: Kartsonakis Ioannis A. , Balaskas Andronikos C. , Kordas George C.
Published: February 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to focus on the corrosion protection of magnesium alloy ZK10 by applying via the dip‐coating process an hybrid organic‐inorganic coating that contains nanocontainers of TiO2 loaded with corrosion inhibitor.

Design/methodology/approach

The coating consists of cross‐linked polymers containing epoxy groups, conductive polymer polypyrrole as well as organic modified silicates. The morphology and the composition of the coating were examined with scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X‐ray analysis, respectively.

Findings

Corrosion tests via electrochemical impedance spectroscopy denoted that the incorporation of loaded nanocontainers improved the anticorrosion properties of the coating by increasing the impedance values in the low frequency range. Moreover, the surface of the aforementioned coating remained crack free after the exposure of the sample to corrosive environment.

Originality/value

The paper presents a new system which has been developed for the corrosion protection of magnesium alloy ZK10.
Politics without the Vernacular: Liberal Culturalism and the Language Policy of the European Union
Authors: Bonotti Matteo
Published: February 2013

Will Kymlicka's liberal culturalism presents a tension between the idea that linguistic diversity in multilingual polities should be protected and the claim that democratic debate across linguistic boundaries is unfeasible. In this article, I resolve that tension by arguing that trans-lingual democratic deliberation in multilingual polities is necessary to legitimise those measures aimed at the protection of linguistic diversity. I conclude that my account provides a coherent normative response to the challenges faced by the European Union (EU) in the field of language policy and that an EU-wide deliberative forum is not as unfeasible as Kymlicka suggests.
Family adaptability and cohesion in families consisting of Asian immigrant women living in South Korea: A 3‐year longitudinal study
Authors: Kim Yeon‐Pyo , Kim Sun , Joh Ju‐Youn
Published: February 2013

Introduction

South Korea's low birth rate, aging society, and female migration to urban areas due to industrialization have caused an accelerated inflow of Asian female immigrants into Korea to marry Korean men, especially in rural areas. This study was performed to determine how family function of multicultural families changes over time and what factors affect the changes in family function of multicultural families.

Methods

The study subjects were 62 Asian immigrant women married to South Korean men living in South Korea. In a 1st wave study in August 2008, the socioeconomic factors and Family Adaptability and Cohesion Scale III (FACES III) scores were measured. A 3‐year follow‐up study was then conducted in August 2011, and the results were compared with the 1st wave study results.

Results

The mean family adaptability score was 24.6 in the 1st wave study and 26.1 at the 3‐year follow‐up. The average family cohesion score was 31.0 in the 1st wave study and 36.7 at the 3‐year follow‐up. There was a statistically significant increase in family cohesion after 3 years (P < 0.001). In multiple regression analysis, age difference between husband and wife (P = 0.019) and subjective SES (P < 0.001) were found to be significantly correlated with positive changes of cohesion scores.

Discussion

Family adaptability did not change over time; however, conversely, family cohesion increased. The age difference between husband and wife and the subjective SES had a positive association with the changes in family cohesion.
The Crohn's disease activity index (CDAI) is similarly elevated in patients with Crohn's disease and in patients with irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Lahiff C. , Safaie P. , Awais A. , Akbari M. , Gashin L. , Sheth S. , Lembo A. , Leffler D. , Moss A. C. , Cheifetz A. S.
Published: February 2013

Background

While the Crohn's disease activity index (CDAI) is the gold standard for defining clinical endpoints in Crohn's disease (Crohn's) clinical trials, its ability to distinguish symptoms due to inflammation from those that are non‐inflammatory has been questioned.

Aim

To compare CDAI scores in patients with Crohn's and those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).

Methods

This was a prospective, cross‐sectional cohort study of 91 patients with either Crohn's (n = 44) or IBS (n = 47). Total CDAI and individual component scores were recorded and comparisons were made between Crohn's and IBS patients.

Results

Mean CDAI scores were higher in the IBS patients (183 vs. 157, P = 0.1). Sixty‐two per cent (n = 29) of IBS patients had CDAI scores greater than 150. Mean CDAI haematocrit score (35.9 vs. 23.0, P = 0.02) and CRP level (6.8 vs. 2.0, P = 0.002) were higher in the Crohn's group. Analysis of CDAI sub‐scores demonstrated that IBS patients had significantly higher pain (mean 1.7 vs. 0.8, P = 0.0007) and well‐being scores (mean 1.2 vs. 0.8, P = 0.04) relative to patients with Crohn's. Specifically evaluating patients with CDAI greater than 150 (n = 51), IBS patients had higher pain sub‐scores (mean 2.4 vs. 1.4, P = 0.002), whereas patients with Crohn's had higher CRP (mean 8.4 vs. 1.8, P = 0.001).

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that the CDAI does not discriminate patients with symptoms due to active Crohn's from patients with IBS. Patients with IBS can have CDAI scores in the clinically meaningful range. Objective measures, such as CDAI haematocrit score and CRP, are more specific markers of inflammation.
Netazepide, a gastrin/CCK2 receptor antagonist, causes dose‐dependent, persistent inhibition of the responses to pentagastrin in healthy subjects
Authors: Boyce Malcolm , Warrington Steve , Black James
Published: February 2013

Aims

To confirm by means of pentagastrin, a synthetic gastrin agonist, that netazepide is a gastrin/CCK2 receptor antagonist in healthy subjects, and that antagonism persists during repeated dosing.

Methods

We did two studies in which we infused pentagastrin (0.6 μg kg−1 h−1 intravenously), aspirated gastric secretion and measured the volume, pH and H+ secretion rate of the gastric aspirate. First, we did a double‐blind, five‐way crossover study (n = 10) to assess the effect of single oral doses of netazepide (1, 5, 25 and 100 mg) and placebo on the response to pentagastrin. Then, we did a single‐blind, placebo‐controlled study (n = 8) to assess the effect of the first and last oral doses of netazepide (100 mg) twice daily for 13 doses on the response to pentagastrin.

Results

Netazepide was well tolerated. After placebo, pentagastrin increased the volume and H+ secretion rate and reduced the pH of gastric aspirate. Compared with placebo, single doses of netazepide caused dose‐dependent inhibition of the pentagastrin response (P < 0.02); netazepide (100 mg) abolished the response. After 13 doses, the reduction in volume and H+ secretion rate persisted (P < 0.001), but the pH effect was mostly lost.

Conclusions

Netazepide is an orally active, potent, competitive antagonist of human gastrin/CCK2 receptors. Antagonism is dose dependent and persists during repeated dosing, despite tolerance to the effect on pH. Further studies are required to explain that tolerance. Netazepide is a tool to study the physiology and pharmacology of gastrin, and merits studies in patients to assess its potential to treat gastric acid‐related conditions and the trophic effects of hypergastrinaemia.
Discipline, Field, Nexus: Re‐Visioning Sociology
Authors: Carroll William K.
Published: February 2013

Cet article propose une reconceptualisation de la discipline sociologique ainsi que de sa place dans le monde actuel. Nous remettrons tout d'abord en question l'idée même que la sociologie puisse être considérée en tant que discipline académique dans le sens habituel du terme, tout comme le fait qu'il soit possible de distinguer, à la manière des sciences de la nature, autant de disciplines distinctes au sein du champ des sciences sociales. Au contraire, nous defendrons la thèse selon laquelle la sociologie et ses disciplines connexes furent plutôt constitueés en tant que champs sociaux à travers un processus historique particulier. Cette analyse nous permettra de réaffirmer la position centrale qu'occupe la sociologie dans le champ de la recherche sociale, de par les liens étroits qu'elle entretient avec les autres disciplines qui constituent ce champ, ainsi que par sa nature interdisciplinaire et critique. Cette reconceptualisation implique qu'une ontologie sociale claire fondée sur une méthodologie cohérente, en l'occurence le réalisme critique, puisse remédier aux tendences centrifuges propre à la discipline, en renforçant sa capacité à analyser les problèmes sociaux, et donc à contribuer à défendre et à élargir les pratiques démocratiques au fondement d'un avenir meilleur.

This article proposes a re‐visioning of sociology and of its relationship to the late‐modern world it inhabits. I first problematize the claim that sociology is a discipline in any ordinary sense of the term, indeed, that social science can be reasonably cleaved into “disciplines” on the model of natural science. I then explore the thesis that sociology and kindred pursuits have been constituted as fields. Finally, I argue that among the fields of social scientific inquiry, the sociological terrain is of great import, as a nexus whose permeability, dense connectivity to other fields and critical transdisciplinarity are prime assets. By implication, the remedy for centrifugal tendencies that worry some sociologists is greater clarity on matters of social ontology and, on that basis, a coherent methodology (critical realism) that can strengthen sociology's capacity to understand our troubled world and to defend and enrich democratic practices that may portend a better future.
RETRACTED: Clinical and radiographic evaluation of osseotite‐expanded platform implants related to crestal bone loss: a 10‐year study
Authors: Calvo‐Guirado José Luis , Gómez‐Moreno Gerardo , Delgado‐Ruiz Rafael A. , Maté Sánchez de Val José E. , Negri Bruno , Ramírez Fernández María P.
Published: February 2013

Objective

The aim of this prospective clinical study was to evaluate the survival rates at 10 years of expanded platform implants placed in the anterior zone of the maxilla and immediately restored with single crowns.

Materials and methods

Implants incorporating the platform‐switching concept were placed in fresh extraction sockets in the maxillary arch, with each patient receiving a provisional restoration immediately after implant placement. After 15 days, final screwed restorations were inserted. Mesial and distal bone heights were evaluated using digital radiography on the day following implant placement and at 1, 5, 7, and 10 years. Primary stability was measured with resonance frequency analysis (RFA) using the Osstell Mentor device. Eighty‐six implants were placed in 32 men and 32 women ranging in age between 29 and 60 (mean, 39.64 ± 5.16 years).

Results

Marginal bone loss from implant collar to bone crest between baseline and 10 years follow‐up was 1.01 mm ± 0.22. Mesial site crestal bone loss ranged from 3.57 mm ± 1.1 at baseline to 3.77 mm ± 0.7 at 10‐year. Distal site crestal bone loss ranged from 3.49 mm ± 0.8 at baseline to 3.73 mm ± 0.7 at 10 year.

Conclusion

The platform‐switched implants remained stable over the course of 10 years and had an overall survival rate of 97.1%.
Does the EU Financing System Contribute to Shadow Economic Activity?
Authors: Herwartz Helmut , Theilen Bernd
Published: February 2013

Financial contributions to the EU budget depend basically on official GDP. This means that countries with higher shadow economic activity contribute less than they should contribute in a system based on actual GDP and therefore could reduce their incentive to fight against such activities. In this paper we investigate if the EU financing system really has an influence on the intensity with which governments in EU member states fight against shadow economic activity. We find that the EU net contributors significantly fight more intensively against shadow economic activity while EU net receivers fight less. As a result, shadow economic activity is higher in net receiver and lower in net contributor countries than it were in comparison with a scenario of nationally balanced EU funding. Quantitatively and averaged over the time period 2001–2007, the diagnosed effect amounts to a stimulation of hidden economic activity by almost 10% for particular economies.
Plant growth – resource or strategy limited: insights from responses to gibberellin
Authors: Parsons A. J. , Rasmussen S. , Liu Q. , Xue H. , Ball C. , Shaw C.
Published: February 2013

We used exogenous application of a phytohormone (gibberellin GA3, ‘GA’) to test the hypothesis that common perennial grasses may not be growing at all times to the limit of resource availability. Plants were taken from the field in winter, and again in summer and their responses to GA assessed under standard conditions, indoors, to reveal their ‘potential’ for growth at different times. Time of year, and associated developmental state, had a major impact on the capacity of plants to respond to exogenous GA, and less so their current growing conditions, temperature and N availability, during measurement. A major increase in dry matter (DM) production in winter‐derived plants took place at both low and high N, with no evidence of a reduction in N content in tissues. That ryegrass plant growth can be stimulated, without externally adding resources, supports the hypothesis there is an element of internal control in how plants respond to ‘signals’ in their environment, that might be manipulated. This offers prospects for reducing environmental impacts (leaching, N2O) compared with obtaining the same yield increase by adding fertilizer N in early season. Responses to exogenous GA were detected (as significant) but far smaller in summer‐derived plants. Molecular mechanisms of detection of N resource signals, developmental triggers and the role of endogenous gibberellin need to be unravelled to assess scope for breeding ryegrass germplasm to better match demands for increased production with greater resource‐use efficiency.
Usefulness and accuracy of the international normalized ratio and activity percent of prothrombin time in patients with liver disease
Authors: Takikawa Yasuhiro , Harada Mari , Wang Ting , Suzuki Kazuyuki
Published: February 2013

Aim

In order to determine the most reliable reporting style for prothrombin time (PT) in patients with liver disease, we examined the correlations between the plasma antigen levels of clotting factors and the PT activity percent or two international normalized ratios (INR), and compared the inter‐reagent variation among these PT reporting styles.

Methods

The PT was measured in 81 patients with liver diseases, including acute liver failure (ALF) (n = 10), acute liver injury (n = 52), chronic hepatitis (n = 8) and liver cirrhosis (n = 11), and in 75 warfarin‐treated patients and 32 healthy volunteers. The PT of each plasma sample was determined with four commercial thromboplastins using an automated photo‐optical coagulometer. For individual thromboplastin reagents, a locally determined international sensitivity index (local ISI) was derived using plasma obtained from healthy volunteers, warfarin‐treated patients and liver disease patients. The INRW and INRLD were calculated using the corresponding local ISI. The PT activity percent was calibrated according to the Lineweaver–Burk equation. The PT values were compared with the plasma antigen levels of clotting factors X, II and VII measured using the enzyme‐linked immunoassay method.

Results

The plasma factor X level was selected as the gold standard for measuring the synthetic liver function among the three clotting factors due to its significant relationship (P = 0.007) with the prognosis of ALF. The INRLD exhibited the closest correlation to the factor X level (r = 0.723–0.759), with the smallest inter‐reagent variation among these reporting styles.

Conclusion

The INRLD is the most appropriate PT reporting style for use in patients with liver disease.
Is perceived patient involvement in mental health care associated with satisfaction and empowerment?
Authors: Tambuyzer Else , Van Audenhove Chantal
Published: February 2013

Background

Patients increasingly assume active roles in their mental health care. While there is a growing interest in patient involvement and patient‐reported outcomes, there is insufficient research on the outcomes of patient involvement.

Objective

The research questions in this study are as follows: ‘To what extent is perceived patient involvement associated with satisfaction and empowerment?’; ‘What is the nature of the relationship between satisfaction and empowerment?’; and ‘To what extent are background variables associated with satisfaction and empowerment?’. We assumed that a higher degree of patient involvement is associated with higher satisfaction and empowerment scores and that satisfaction and empowerment are positively associated.

Design, setting and participants

Data were gathered using surveys of 111 patients of 36 multidisciplinary care networks for persons with serious and persistent mental illness.

Main variables studied and main outcome measures

Demographic characteristics, patient involvement and satisfaction were measured using a new questionnaire. Empowerment was assessed using the Dutch Empowerment Scale. Descriptive, univariate (Pearson's r and independent‐samples t‐tests), multivariate (hierarchical forced entry regression) and mixed‐model analyses were conducted.

Results

The hypotheses of positive associations between patient involvement, satisfaction and empowerment are confirmed. The demographics are not significantly related to satisfaction or empowerment, except for gender. Men reported higher empowerment scores than did women.

Discussion and conclusions

Making patient involvement a reality is more than just an ethical imperative. It provides an opportunity to enhance patient‐reported outcomes such as satisfaction and empowerment. Future research should focus on the nature of the association between satisfaction and empowerment.
The interaction of pulsed electric fields and texturizing ‐ antifreezing agents in quality retention of defrosted potato strips
Authors: Shayanfar Shima , Chauhan OP , Toepfl Stefan , Heinz Volker
Published: February 2013

The combination of pulsed electric fields (PEF) and texturizing and antifreeze agents on quality retention of defrosted potato strips were studied. Potato strips (10 mm thickness, 100 g) were placed in different solutions (1% w/v) of CaCl2, glycerol, trehalose as well as NaCl and sucrose, treated with PEF (0.5 kV cm−1, 100 pulses, 4 Hz). Then, all the samples were soaked in the same solutions for 10 min. After draining, samples were packed into polypropylene pouches and stored at −18 °C for 12 h. Samples were thawed out at room temperature (20 °C) in 3 h. Untreated controls and PEF treated control samples were also frozen and thawed in similar conditions. To assess the potato strip quality, the thawed samples were analysed for moisture content, weight loss, firmness and colour attributes. The results indicate that PEF treatment by itself is not a suitable pre‐treatment method for frozen potato strips and should be assisted by CaCl2 and trehalose treatment to prevent softening after defrosting. Firmness analyses determined that application of PEF alone results in 2.38 N. However, PEF in combination with CaCl2 and trehalose result in 2.97 N and 2.99 N, respectively, which are both significantly firmer than the samples solely treated with PEF. CaCl2 and trehalose were effective in not only maintaining the structural integrity of the cells, but also retaining colour attributes. The L* value was found to be higher (P < 0.05) in CaCl2 and trehalose treated samples (58.95 and 57.21, respectively), as compared to PEF treated samples (53.97) denoting a darker colour. Application of CaCl2 and trehalsoe in combination with PEF also resulted in significantly less weight loss after thawing.
Effects of microwave and hot‐air drying methods on colour, β‐carotene and radical scavenging activity of apricots
Authors: Albanese Donatella , Cinquanta Luciano , Cuccurullo Gennaro , Di Matteo Marisa
Published: February 2013

The effects of drying by microwave and convective heating at 60 and 70 °C on colour change, degradation of β‐carotene and the 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH) scavenging activity of apricots were evaluated. Microwave heating reduced significantly the drying time (up to 25%), if compared with convective one, also owing to the higher temperature reached during the last phase of the process, as monitored by infrared thermography. Colour changes of apricot surface, described with lightness and hue angle, in both drying methods followed a first‐order reaction (0.927 ≤ R2 ≤ 0.996). The apricots dried by microwave were less affected by the darkening phenomena. The evolution of β‐carotene in fresh apricots (61.2 ± 5.6 mg kg−1 d.w.) during the drying highlighted a wider decrease (about 50%) when microwave heating was employed for both the temperatures used. Radical scavenging activity increased (P < 0.05) in all dried samples except for hot‐air dried apricots at 60 °C.
Modelling the survival of Enterobacter cloacae in a model olive cover brine solution
Authors: Bevilacqua Antonio , Gallo, Mariangela , Corbo Maria Rosaria , Sinigaglia Milena
Published: February 2013

The main goal of this research was the evaluation of the survival of Enterobacter cloacae in a model olive brine. Two different assays were run; the first experiment assessed the viability of the target in brines containing NaCl (6–12%) and p‐coumaric acid (0.0–0.05%), adjusted to different pHs (4–10) and stored at 10–30 °C for 9 days. The death rate and cell levels at selected times were modelled with a polynomial equation to highlight the individual and interactive effects of NaCl/p‐coumaric acid/pH/temperature. Then, a second experiment was run for 3 months (temperature, 10 °C; pH, 4.5–5.5; NaCl, 6–8%). The survival of E. cloacae was affected mainly by pH, then by salt and temperature; however, the significance of the variables changed within the time, as salt and temperature acted in a significant way only after 1 day.
Selection of γ‐aminobutyric acid‐producing lactic acid bacteria and their potential as probiotics for use as starter cultures in Thai fermented sausages (Nham)
Authors: Ratanaburee, Anussara , Kantachote Duangporn , Charernjiratrakul Wilawan , Sukhoom Ampaitip
Published: February 2013

To produce a novel product of Thai fermented meats, such as healthy Nham, 602 lactic acid bacteria were isolated from fermented foods and fourteen isolates that produced high amounts of γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) were also tested for inhibiting the seven foodborne bacteria. Four selected isolates produced GABA in the range of 7339–9060 mg L−1 (NH2 < NH102 < NH116 < HN8) and their culture filtrates with a pH of 3.8, except 4.2 for NH2 inhibited all target organisms. Selected strains were investigated for their physiological and functional properties of probiotics in vitro. Strain NH102 survived best in the gastrointestinal tract with only a one log cell decrease over 4 h, whereas strain NH116 was the best cholesterol removal (43%). None showed any haemolysis and all hydrolased bile salts. Strain NH2 was identified as Lactobacillus namurensis and all the others were Pediococcus pentosaceus. Strains HN8 and NH2 were potential starters for fermenting meats.
Enzymatic production of low‐calorie structured lipid from Echium seed oil and lauric acid: optimisation by response surface methodology
Authors: Gökçe Jülide , Şahin Yeşilçubuk Neşe , Üstün Güldem
Published: February 2013

Low‐calorie structured lipids (SLs) were produced from Echium seed oil and lauric acid by enzymatic acidolysis reactions. Lipozyme® RM IM, commercially immobilised sn‐1,3 specific lipase derived from Rhizomucor miehei, was used in the reactions. The effects of substrate molar ratio and reaction time on incorporation of lauric acid were investigated and optimised by response surface technology (RSM) with five‐level, two‐factor central composite design. Good quadratic model was obtained for the response [lauric acid (%) incorporation]. Highest lauric acid incorporation into Echium oil was obtained at 5:1 lauric acid/Echium oil molar ratio and at 4‐h reaction time. The model was verified at these conditions and furthermore scale‐up synthesis of SLs was performed. At these conditions, SL contained predominantly lauric acid (42.8%), oleic acid (9.9%), linoleic acid (10.8%), α‐linolenic acid (15.1%), γ‐linolenic acid (7.5%) and stearidonic acid (8.5%) with% 64.4 of PUFA at sn‐2 position in gram‐scale synthesis.
Predictors for success for first semester, second‐degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing students
Authors: Kowitlawakul Yanika , Brenkus Rosemarie , Dugan Nicolette
Published: February 2013

Second‐degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programmes have grown rapidly in the past 5 years to respond to the nursing shortage in many countries. The purposes of this study are to describe the relationships among age, prerequisite grades, previous degree grade point averages (GPAs), admissions test scores and first semester test scores, and to investigate the most influential predictor for success in the first semester in the nursing program. Pre‐existing data from academic records were used. There were 60 participants and SPSS version 15.0 was used to analyze the data. The results show that age has no relationship with the first semester performance. Fifty‐four per cent of variance in the first semester GPAs (R2 = 0.54) was explained by previous degree GPAs, prerequisite GPAs and admissions test scores in the second‐degree nursing student population. The most influential predictor for success for the first semester of the second‐degree BSN program is admissions tests scores.
Limb salvage using advanced technologies: a case report
Authors: Frykberg Robert G , O'Connor Rachel M , Tallis Arthur , Tierney Edward
Published: February 2013

Patients with severe acute and chronic lower extremity wounds often present a significant challenge in terms of limb salvage. In addition to control of infection, assuring adequate perfusion and providing standard wound care, advanced modalities are often required to facilitate final wound closure. We herein present a case study on a diabetic patient with gangrene and necrotising soft‐tissue infection who underwent a forefoot pedal amputation to control the sepsis. Despite his non invasive vascular studies demonstrating poor healing potential at this level, he was not deemed suitable for revascularisation by our vascular surgeons and ankle‐level amputation was recommended. Nonetheless, over a 5‐month period using multiple advanced wound care therapies, wound closure was ultimately achieved.
Prognostic indicators in WHO 2003 low‐grade endometrial stromal sarcoma
Authors: Feng Weiwei , Hua Keqin , Gudlaugsson Einar , Yu Yinhua , Zhou Xianrong , Baak Jan P A
Published: February 2013

Aims:  Endometrial stromal sarcoma (ESS) has traditionally been divided into low and high grade, but the World Health Organization (WHO, 2003) has changed the definition. Since 2003, many studies have used the old criteria, and few have focused on WHO 2003‐defined ESS low grade (ESS‐LG). The aim of this study was to investigate prognosticators in ESS‐LG.

Methods and results:  We reviewed the WHO 2003 diagnostic criteria in 91 tumours (previously classified as ESS low and high grade). There were 68 cases of ESS‐LG and 23 of undifferentiated endometrial sarcoma (UES). In the ESS‐LG cases, the prognostic value of clinicopathological variables was studied. With a median follow‐up of 79 months (range: 20–474 months), the recurrence and death rates were 5/68 (7%) and 1/68 (1.5%) in the ESS‐LG cases. Ovarian preservation or no ovarian preservation (P < 0.0001, hazard ratio (HR) 10.4) and mitotic activity index (MAI) (0–3 versus >3, P = 0.005, HR 8.6) had independent prognostic value. Other frequently used MAI thresholds – age, tumour diameter, and vessel invasion – were not prognostic. Among patients without ovarian preservation (n = 61), none of 53 with MAI 0–3 suffered recurrence, contrasting with two of eight (25%) of those with MAI >3 (P = 0.003); one of these two recurrence patients died (P = 0.02). Among patients with ovarian preservation (n = 7), three (43%) suffered recurrence but none died, and MAI had no additional prognostic value.

Conclusions:  In ESS‐LG, ovarian preservation and MAI >3 are associated with increased risk of recurrence.
Ex VivoEvaluation of Canine Lung Biopsy Techniques
Authors: Marvel Sarah , Monnet Eric
Published: February 2013

Objective

Anex vivocomparison of thoracoscopic lung biopsy techniques in dogs.

Study Design

Experimental.

Sample Population

Cadaveric canine lung lobes.

Methods

Lungs were inflated to 10 cmH2O. After collecting biopsies 3 cm from the edge of lung lobes, leak pressures were recorded as inflation pressure was increased to 40 cmH2O. Pre‐tied loop ligature, square knot (SQ), modified 4S Roeder knot (M4SR) with glycomer 631 and polyglactin 910 size 0 and 2‐0 were used in addition to EndoGIA 45–2.5 mm (Covidien, Norwalk, CT) and a vessel sealant device (VSDS single and VSDD double seal). Six biopsies were performed with each of these modalities.

Results

Median airway pressure at which leakage occurred was 28 (20–34) cmH2O for EndoGIA 45; 33 (14–40) for VSDD; and 33 (10–40) for VSDS while other groups reached a median pressure of 40 cmH2O (P < .0001). Leakage occurred at 20 cmH2O in 1 sample with the EndoGIA and the VSDS, and in 2 with the VSDD while leakage did not occur in any other group (P = .36). Leakage occurred at 30 cmH2O in 1 specimen each of the 0‐polyglactin SQ, 2‐0 glycomer 631 M4SR, 2‐0 polyglactin M4SR, and 2‐0 Surgitie (Covidien, Norwalk, CT); 2 with the VSDS; and 3 with the EndoGIA and the VSDD while leakage did not occur in any other group (P = .26).

Conclusions

All tested techniques seemed safe except the vessel sealant device since it did not consistently seal every biopsy and leaked at pressures <20 cmH2O.
Belief about immutability of moral character and punitiveness toward criminal offenders
Authors: Tam Kim‐Pong , Shu Tse‐Mei , Ng Henry Kin‐Shing , Tong Yuk‐Yue
Published: February 2013

The present research examined the association between belief about immutability of moral character and punitiveness toward criminal offenders. Overall, participants who believed that moral character is immutable (entity theorists) were more punitive than those who believed that it is changeable (incremental theorists). More important, the present research identified two mediational paths: Entity theorists made more internal attribution of criminal behavior and held stronger expectation of offenders' recidivism, both of which in turn led to stronger punitiveness. Also, contrary to some researchers' speculation, entity theorists did not perceive less controllability in criminal behavior. Implications for implicit theory research and criminal justice research are discussed.
The specific response to capacitating stimuli is a sensitive indicator of chilling injury in hypothermically stored boar spermatozoa
Authors: Schmid S. , Henning H. , Oldenhof H. , Wolkers W. F. , Petrunkina A. M. , Waberski D.
Published: February 2013

Boar spermatozoa are sensitive to storage temperatures below 15 °C. Chilling injury causes loss of motility and membrane integrity in a minority of cells, whereas the main population displays sublethal changes compromising fertility. In this study, changes of the response to capacitation conditions in hypothermically stored boar spermatozoa have been examined using a kinetic approach with well‐defined test and control media. Ejaculates of seven boars were diluted in Beltsville Thawing Solution kept for 3 h at 22 °C or cooled to 17, 10 and 5 °C and stored for 24 and 96 h. At each time point, the standard sperm parameters motility and membrane integrity were evaluated. Subsequently, washed subsamples were incubated in capacitating and control medium before flow cytometric analysis of intracellular calcium content using the Fluo‐3 probe and changes in phospholipid disorder using merocyanine. Kinetic changes of response parameters were monitored in viable (plasma membrane intact) cells. Chilling led to a loss of standard sperm quality traits in a minor subpopulation of cells, whereas storage length had no effect on these parameters. However, responses to incubation as determined by the loss of live cells with low intracellular calcium content showed marked changes in relation to storage conditions. The specific responsiveness to capacitation conditions decreased in close relation to storage temperature and length. In contrast, the merocyanine probe revealed to be limited to detect effects of hypothermic storage. Using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, no influence of chilling on membrane phase behaviour was found that might implicate decreased sperm function. In conclusion, assessment of response to capacitating media by monitoring intracellular calcium levels provides a sensitive measure for chilling injury in extended boar semen, and therefore, deserves implementation in hypothermic storage tests.
Neoadjuvant chemotherapy for gastric cancer: A meta‐analysis of randomized, controlled trials
Authors: Liao Yi , Yang Zu‐li , Peng Jun‐sheng , Xiang Jun , Wang Jian‐ping
Published: February 2013

Background and Aim

Although the effect of neoadjuvant chemotherapy in gastric cancer has been extensively studied, the data of survival benefit are still controversial. The purpose of this work was to assess the effectiveness of neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by surgery in patients with gastric cancer.

Methods

We searched systematically electronic through the databases of PUBMED, EMBASE, China Biological Medicine, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure Whole Article for studies published from 1975. Two reviewers independently evaluated the relevant reports and searched manually reference from these reports for additional trials. Outcomes assessed by meta‐analysis included overall survival rate, progression‐free survival rate, R0 resection rate, downstaging effect, postoperative complications, and perioperative mortality.

Results

Six randomized, controlled trials with 781 patients were included in the meta‐analysis. Odds ratio (95% confidence interval; P‐value), expressed as neoadjuvant chemotherapy and surgery versus surgery alone, was 1.16 (0.85–1.58; P = 0.36) for overall survival, 1.24 (0.78–1.96; P = 0.36) for R0 resection, 1.25 (0.75–2.09; P = 0.39) for postoperative complications, and 3.60 (0.59–22.45; P = 0.17) for perioperative mortality.

Conclusions

Compared with surgery alone, neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by surgery was not associated with a higher rate of overall survival or complete resection (R0 resection). It does not increase treatment‐related morbidity and mortality. This meta‐analysis did not demonstrate a survival benefit for the combination of neoadjuvant chemotherapy and surgery.
Unconjugated bilirubin, a potent endogenous antioxidant, is decreased in patients with non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis and advanced fibrosis
Authors: Salomone Federico , Li Volti Giovanni , Rosso Chiara , Grosso Giuseppe , Bugianesi Elisabetta
Published: February 2013

Background and Aim

Oxidative stress is considered a key element in the progression of non‐alcoholic fatty liver to non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Unconjugated bilirubin is the main endogenous lipid antioxidant and is cytoprotective in different tissues and organs. In this study, it was evaluated if unconjugated bilirubin levels are associated with the degree of liver injury in patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Methods

Two hundred and eighty‐five patients were retrospectively evaluated with biopsy‐confirmed non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease. Multiple logistic regression models were used to assess the relationship of steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis levels to the features of patients.

Results

Unconjugated bilirubin levels differed significantly according to inflammation and fibrosis scores. Unconjugated bilirubin was lower in patients with moderate‐severe inflammation compared with those with absent‐mild (P = 0.001) and in patients with moderate‐severe fibrosis compared with those with absent‐mild (P < 0.001), whereas no difference was observed for steatosis grades. At logistic regression analysis, low unconjugated bilirubin levels were associated with moderate‐severe inflammation (odds ratio, 0.11; 95% confidence interval 0.02–0.76; P = 0.025) and moderate‐severe fibrosis (odds ratio, 0.013; 95% confidence interval 0.001–0.253; P = 0.004).

Conclusions

Low unconjugated bilirubin levels are independent predictors of advanced inflammation and fibrosis in patients with steatohepatitis, indicating the lack of antioxidant protection as a possible molecular determinant for the progression of liver injury.
Real Interrogation: What Actually Happens When Cops Question Kids
Authors: Feld Barry C.
Published: February 2013

Although the Supreme Court repeatedly cautioned that youthfulness adversely affects juveniles' ability to exercise Miranda rights or make voluntary statements, it endorsed the adult waiver standard—knowing, intelligent, and voluntary—to gauge juveniles' Miranda waivers. By contrast, developmental psychologists question whether young people understand or possess the competence necessary to exercise Miranda rights. This article analyzes quantitative and qualitative data of interrogations of three hundred and seven (307) sixteen- and seventeen-year old youths charged with felony offenses. It reports how police secure Miranda waivers, the tactics they use to elicit information, and the evidence youths provide. The findings bear on three policy issues—procedural safeguards for youths, time limits for interrogations, and mandatory recording of interrogations.
Linguistics at School: The UK Linguistics Olympiad
Authors: Hudson Richard , Sheldon Neil
Published: February 2013

The UK Linguistics Olympiad, like similar olympiads that have been offered in other countries since they first took place in Moscow in 1965, is an annual competition in which school students test their ability to sort out the underlying patterns and rules in linguistic data. The UK olympiad has only existed since 2010 but by 2012 it already had 2,000 competitors aged between 11 and 18. Its success shows how enthusiastic young people can be about studying language structure. Linguistics olympiads help schools to promote languages and to interest all pupils in language structure; in the UK, this is particularly important in state‐funded schools.