bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A geochemical study of the Ediacaran discoidal fossil Aspidella preserved in limestones: Implications for its taphonomy and paleoecology
Authors: Bykova N. , Gill B. C. , Grazhdankin D. , Rogov V. , Xiao S.
Published: April 2017

The Ediacara biota features the rise of macroscopic complex life immediately before the Cambrian explosion. One of the most abundant and widely distributed elements of the Ediacara biota is the discoidal fossil Aspidella, which is interpreted as a subsurface holdfast possibly anchoring a frondose epibenthic organism. It is a morphologically simple fossil preserved mainly in siliciclastic rocks, which are unsuitable for comprehensive stable isotope geochemical analyses to decipher its taphonomy and paleoecology. In this regard, three‐dimensionally preserved Aspidella fossils from upper Ediacaran limestones of the Khatyspyt Formation in the Olenek Uplift of northern Siberia offer a rare opportunity to leverage geochemistry for insights into their taphonomy and paleoecology. To take advantage of this opportunity, we analyzed δ13Ccarb, δ18Ocarb, δ13Corg, δ34Spyr, and iron speciation of the Khatyspyt Aspidella fossils and surrounding sediment matrix in order to investigate whether they hosted microbial symbionts, how they were fossilized, and the redox conditions of their ecological environments. Aspidella holdfasts and surrounding sediment matrix show indistinguishable δ13Corg values, suggesting they did not host and derive significant amount of nutrients from microbial symbionts such as methanogens, methylotrophs, or sulfide‐oxidizing bacteria. δ13Ccarb, δ18Ocarb, and δ34Spyr data, along with petrographic observations, suggest that microbial sulfate reduction facilitated the preservation of Aspidella by promoting early authigenic calcite cementation in the holdfasts before matrix cementation and sediment compaction. Iron speciation data are equivocal, largely because of the low total iron concentrations. However, consideration of published sulfur isotope and biomarker data suggests that Aspidella likely lived in non‐euxinic waters. It is possible that Aspidella was an opportunistic organism, colonizing the seafloor in large numbers when paleoenvironments were favorable. This study demonstrates that geochemical data of Ediacaran fossils preserved in limestones can offer important insights into the taphonomy and paleoecology of these enigmatic organisms living on the eve of the Cambrian explosion.
Soil carbon sequestration potential of permanent pasture and continuous cropping soils in New Zealand
Authors: McNally Sam R. , Beare Mike H. , Curtin Denis , Meenken Esther D. , Kelliher Francis M. , Calvelo Pereira Roberto , Shen Qinhua , Baldock Jeff
Published: April 2017

Understanding soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration is important to develop strategies to increase the SOC stock and, thereby, offset some of the increases in atmospheric carbon dioxide. Although the capacity of soils to store SOC in a stable form is commonly attributed to the fine (clay + fine silt) fraction, the properties of the fine fraction that determine the SOC stabilization capacity are poorly known. The aim of this study was to develop an improved model to estimate the SOC stabilization capacity of Allophanic (Andisols) and non‐Allophanic topsoils (0–15 cm) and, as a case study, to apply the model to predict the sequestration potential of pastoral soils across New Zealand. A quantile (90th) regression model, based on the specific surface area and extractable aluminium (pyrophosphate) content of soils, provided the best prediction of the upper limit of fine fraction carbon (FFC) (i.e. the stabilization capacity), but with different coefficients for Allophanic and non‐Allophanic soils. The carbon (C) saturation deficit was estimated as the difference between the stabilization capacity of individual soils and their current C concentration. For long‐term pastures, the mean saturation deficit of Allophanic soils (20.3 mg C g−1) was greater than that of non‐Allophanic soils (16.3 mg C g−1). The saturation deficit of cropped soils was 1.14–1.89 times that of pasture soils. The sequestration potential of pasture soils ranged from 10 t C ha−1 (Ultic soils) to 42 t C ha−1 (Melanic soils). Although meeting the estimated national soil C sequestration potential (124 Mt C) is unrealistic, improved management practices targeted to those soils with the greatest sequestration potential could contribute significantly to off‐setting New Zealand's greenhouse gas emissions. As the first national‐scale estimate of SOC sequestration potential that encompasses both Allophanic and non‐Allophanic soils, this serves as an informative case study for the international community.
Morphological and physiological responses and the recovery ability of Paspalum accessions to water deficit and waterlogging
Authors: Beloni T. , Pezzopane C. G. , Rovadoscki G. A. , Fávero A. P. , Dias‐Filho M. B. , Santos P. M.
Published: April 2017

Limited knowledge about the agronomic potential of Paspalum species from the Americas hinders their use in pastures. The response mechanisms to water deficit and waterlogging were studied in five accessions of Paspalum sp. (P. regnellii cv. BRS Guará and BGP 397, P. conspersum BGP 402 and P. malacophyllum BGP 289 and BGP 293) and Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu. Morphological and physiological traits at the end of the stress and after the recovery period were measured. All Paspalum accessions, especially BGP 289, BGP 402 and BGP 397, and also cv. Marandu, showed survival mechanisms to water deficit. BRS Guará showed adaptive features to waterlogging, although had with a low survival rate to water deficit. Under waterlogging, BGP 289 and cv. Marandu showed reduced growth, and after the recovery period, they presented low plant survival and root recovery. Although growth of BGP 293 was reduced during waterlogging, it presented high tiller survival rate. BGP 293, BGP 402 and BGP 397 showed adaptive potential strategies for waterlogging and water deficit. There is genetic variability among the evaluated accessions for water deficit and waterlogging stresses, suggesting that they may be used per se or as progenitors in crosses with other genotypes in breeding programmes.
Ribosomal protein L31 in Escherichia coli contributes to ribosome subunit association and translation, whereas short L31 cleaved by protease 7 reduces both activities
Authors: Ueta Masami , Wada Chieko , Bessho Yoshitaka , Maeda Maki , Wada Akira
Published: April 2017

Ribosomes routinely prepared from Escherichia coli strain K12 contain intact (70 amino acids) and short (62 amino acids) forms of ribosomal protein L31. By contrast, ribosomes prepared from ompT mutant cells, which lack protease 7, contain only intact L31, suggesting that L31 is cleaved by protease 7 during ribosome preparation. We compared ribosomal subunit association in wild‐type and ompT − strains. In sucrose density gradient centrifugation under low Mg2+, 70S content was very high in ompT − ribosomes, but decreased in the wild‐type ribosomes containing short L31. In addition, ribosomes lacking L31 failed to associate ribosomal subunits in low Mg2+. Therefore, intact L31 is required for subunit association, and the eight C‐terminal amino acids contribute to the association function. In vitro translation was assayed using three different systems. Translational activities of ribosomes lacking L31 were 40% lower than those of ompT − ribosomes with one copy of intact L31, indicating that L31 is involved in translation. Moreover, in the stationary phase, L31 was necessary for 100S formation. The strain lacking L31 grew very slowly. A structural analysis predicted that the L31 protein spans the 30S and 50S subunits, consistent with the functions of L31 in 70S association, 100S formation, and translation.
Effects of audiovisual distraction in children with special healthcare needs during dental restorations: a randomized crossover clinical trial
Authors: Bagattoni Simone , D'Alessandro Giovanni , Sadotti Agnese , Alkhamis Nadia , Piana Gabriela
Published: April 2017

Background

Audiovisual distraction using video eyeglasses is useful in managing distress and reducing fear and anxiety in healthy children during dental treatments.

Aim

To evaluate the effect of audiovisual distraction on behavior and self‐reported pain of children with special healthcare needs (SHCN) without intellectual disability during dental restorations and its influence on the operator stress and the time of the appointment.

Material and methods

This randomized controlled crossover trial comprised 48 children with SHCN requiring at least two dental restorations. One restoration was done wearing the video eyeglasses and one wearing conventional behavior management techniques. Subjective and objective pain was evaluated using the Faces Pain Scale – Revised (FPS‐R) and the revised Face, Leg, Activity, Cry, and Consolability scale (r‐FLACC). The operator stress using a VAS, the time of the appointment, and the child satisfaction were recorded.

Results

The use of video eyeglasses significantly reduced the operator stress. The bivariate analysis showed that the mean FPS‐R score and the mean r‐FLACC score were significantly lower using the video eyeglasses only during the second clinical session.

Conclusion

Audiovisual distraction could be useful in managing distress in SHCN children without intellectual disability but cannot replace the conventional behavior management techniques.
Strategien und Ziele der Etablierung eines Ringversuchs „Differenzierung von innenraumrelevanten Schimmelpilzen‟
Authors: Gabrio Th. , Dill Ingrid , Fischer G. , Grün L. , Rabe R. , Samson R. , Seidl H.‐P. , Szewzyk Regine , Trautmann Ch. , Warscheid Th. , Weidner Ursula
Published: April 2017

Eine internes und externes Qualitätssicherungssystem, das Ringversuche mit einschließt, ist eine Voraussetzung für einen sachgerechten Nachweis und eine entsprechende Bewertung von Schimmelpilzbelastungen in Innenräumen. Dies war der Grund dafür dass der am Landesgesundheitsamt Baden‐Württemberg (LGA BW) angesiedelte Qualitätszirkel „Qualitatssicherung ‐ Schimmelpilze in Innenräumen‟ 2001 einen Ringversuch ‐ Differenzierung innenraumrelevanter Schimmelpilze ‐ etablierte und auf die Notwendigkeit der Qualifizierung der entsprechenden Laboratorien hinwies. Beim Aufbau des Ringversuches liegt das Primat bei der richtigen Identifizierung der Schimmelpilze nach Gattung und Art. Der Quantifizierung kommt eine untergeordnete Bedeutung zu. Auf der Basis von Reinkulturen wurden bisher zwei Ringversuche durchgeführt, an dem sich jeweils ca. 50 Laboratorien beteiligten. Ab dem dritten Ringversuch werden auch reale Proben in das Programm mit aufgenommen. Die Ergebnisse der beiden ersten Ringversuche werden vorgestellt und diskutiert. Eine Internationalisierung des Ringversuchs ist beabsichtigt.
Pilzinfektionen bei immunsupprimierten Patienten
Authors: Müller J.
Published: April 2017

Priv.‐Doz. Dr. Markus Ruhnke (Hrsg.), UNI‐MED Science, 1. Auflage 2003, 184 Seiten, 79 Abbildungen, 61 Tabellen, Hardcover, ISBN 3‐89599‐634‐3, Euro 44,80, SFr 79,20.
Plasma sprayed nanostructured GdPO4 thermal barrier coatings: Preparation microstructure and CMAS corrosion resistance
Authors: Guo Lei , Li Mingzhu , Cheng Yuxian , Zhang Chenglong , He Sixian , Zhang Yuchen , Ye Fuxing
Published: April 2017

Nanostructured GdPO4 thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) were prepared by air plasma spraying, and their phase structure evolution and microstructure variation due to calcium–magnesium–alumina–silicate (CMAS) attack have been investigated. The chemical composition of the coating is close to that of the agglomerated particles used for thermal spraying. Nanozones with porous structure are embedded in the coating microstructure, with a percentage of ~30%. CMAS corrosion tests indicated that nanostructured GdPO4 coating is highly resistant to penetration by molten CMAS at 1250°C. Within 1 hour heat treatment duration, a continuous dense reaction layer forms on the coating surface, which are composed of P–Si apatite based on Ca2+xGd8−x(PO4)x(SiO4)6−xO2, anorthite and spinel phases. This layer provides effective prevention against CMAS further infiltration into the coating. Prolonged heat treatment densifies the reaction layer but does not change its phase composition.
Thickness‐dependent domain wall reorientation in 70/30 lead magnesium niobate‐ lead titanate thin films
Authors: Keech Ryan , Morandi Carl , Wallace Margeaux , Esteves Giovanni , Denis Lyndsey , Guerrier Jonathon , Johnson‐Wilke Raegan L. , Fancher Chris M. , Jones Jacob L. , Trolier‐McKinstry Susan
Published: April 2017

Continued reduction in length scales associated with many ferroelectric film‐based technologies is contingent on retaining the functional properties as the film thickness is reduced. Epitaxial and polycrystalline lead magnesium niobate‐lead titanate (70PMN‐30PT) thin films were studied over the thickness range of 100‐350 nm for the relative contributions to property thickness dependence from interfacial and grain‐boundary low permittivity layers. Epitaxial PMN‐PT films were grown on SrRuO3/(001)SrTiO3, while polycrystalline films with {001}‐Lotgering factors >0.96 were grown on Pt/TiO2/SiO2/Si substrates via chemical solution deposition. Both film types exhibited similar relative permittivities of ~300 at high fields at all measured thicknesses with highly crystalline electrode/dielectric interfaces. These results, with the DC‐biased and temperature‐dependent dielectric characterization, suggest irreversible domain wall mobility is the major contributor to the overall dielectric response and its thickness dependence. In epitaxial films, the irreversible Rayleigh coefficients reduced 85% upon decreasing thickness from 350 to 100 nm. The temperature at which a peak in the relative permittivity is observed was the only measured small signal quantity which was more thickness‐dependent in polycrystalline than epitaxial films. This is attributed to the relaxor nature present in the films, potentially stabilized by defect concentrations, and/or chemical inhomogeneity. Finally, the effective interfacial layers are found to contribute to the measured thickness dependence in the longitudinal piezoelectric coefficient.
The influence of team members on nurses’ perceptions of transgressive behaviour in care relationships: A qualitative study
Authors: Vandecasteele Tina , Van Hecke Ann , Duprez Veerle , Beeckman Dimitri , Debyser Bart , Grypdonck Maria , Verhaeghe Sofie
Published: April 2017

Aim

The aim of this study was to gain insight into the influence of team members in how nurses perceive and address patients’ transgressive behaviour.

Background

Aggression and transgressive behaviour in health care have been a focus of research over the past few decades. Most studies have focused on individual nurses’ experiences with aggression and transgressive behaviour. Literature examining group dynamics in nursing teams and team members’ interactions in handling patients’ transgressive behaviour is scarce.

Design

Qualitative interview study.

Methods

Seven focus‐group interviews and two individual interviews were carried out in 2014‐2016. Twenty‐four nurses were drawn from eight wards in three general hospitals. Interviews were analysed using the constant comparative method influenced by the grounded theory approach.

Findings

While elaborating how they perceived and addressed transgressive behaviour, nurses disclosed how interactions with team members occurred. Several patterns arose. Nurses talk to one another, excuse one another, fill in for one another, warn one another and protect and safeguard one another. In these patterns in reaction to patients’ transgressive behaviour, implicit group norms transpire, causing nursing teams to acquire their specific identity “as a group”. Consequently, these informal group norms in nursing teams impinge how nurses feel threatened by patients’ potential transgressive behaviour; gain protection from the group of nurses and conform to informal ward rules.

Conclusion

The findings of this study can support intervention strategies aimed at supporting nurses and nursing teams in managing patient aggression and transgressive behaviour by identifying and explicating these group dynamics and team members’ interactions.
Experiences of violence and abuse among internally displaced adolescent girls following a natural disaster
Authors: Sloand Elizabeth , Killion Cheryl , Yarandi Hossein , Sharps Phyllis , Lewis‐O'Connor Annie , Hassan Mona , Gary Faye , Cesar Nicole Muller , Campbell Doris
Published: April 2017

Aim

To describe the physical, psychological and sexual violence among internally displaced adolescent girls following the 2010 Haiti earthquake and related risk factors, health concerns and cultural norms.

Background

Thousands of adolescents were displaced following the earthquake, leaving them vulnerable to abuse and violence. Displaced survivors are disproportionately vulnerable to violence after natural and man‐made disasters.

Design

A descriptive‐correlational design was used to: (1) describe the extent of violence, health risks and concerns in the displaced adolescent girls; and (2) identify correlations in the strength and magnitude of relationships between selected variables including demographics, risk factors and cultural tolerance of violence.

Methods

Data were collected from participants using computer‐assisted self‐interviews between 2011–2013 including demographics, pre‐ and post‐earthquake violence, perpetrators, risk factors and health consequences. Analysis included frequency, logistic regression and multiple regression.

Results/Findings

A majority reported physical, psychological, or sexual abuse both pre‐ (59%) and post‐ (64.1%) earthquake. Pre‐earthquake, abused adolescents reported the perpetrator as a boyfriend (50%) or family member (30%). Post‐earthquake, 20.5% of physical abuse perpetrators were family members. Pre‐ and post‐earthquake physical and sexual abuse did not change. The risk of being sexually abused post‐earthquake increased after controlling for age and education.

Conclusion

Displaced adolescent girls reported similar rates of physical and sexual abuse pre‐ and post‐earthquake. These findings show the importance of preventive policies for adolescent girls in disaster situations in countries with low resources. Social and cultural change is critically needed since abuse was at an unacceptably high rate prior to the earthquake.
The effects of nursing preceptorship on new nurses’ competence, professional socialization, job satisfaction and retention: A systematic review
Authors: Ke Ya‐Ting , Kuo Chia‐Chi , Hung Chich‐Hsiu
Published: April 2017

Aims

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of nursing preceptorship on the competence, job satisfaction, professional socialization and retention of new nurses.

Background

Although studies have focused on the effects of nursing preceptorship on new nurses’ competence and retention, a systematic review of the overall effects is lacking.

Design

A quantitative systematic review.

Data sources

Five English/Chinese databases were searched for original articles published before June 2015 and only six articles published between 2001–2014 were included in the final analysis.

Review methods

Joanna Briggs Methodology was used to process one randomization control trial, one quasi‐experimental study and four observational studies. Two appraisers independently reviewed each study using the standardized critical appraisal tools from the Joanna Briggs Institute.

Results

The most adopted preceptorship was a fixed preceptor/preceptee model and one‐on‐one for 1–3‐month duration. It showed that new nurses’ overall competence increased significantly due to preceptorship. Only a few studies explored the effects of preceptorship on the job satisfaction and professional socialization of new nurses. Clear conclusions regarding the effect of preceptorship on nurses’ retention rate could not be made because of inconsistent time points for calculation and a lack of control groups in the study design.

Conclusions

Preceptorship can improve new nurses’ nursing competence; however, more studies are needed to ascertain its effects on new nurses’ retention rates, job satisfaction and professional socialization to promote nursing care quality and resolve nursing shortages.
Continuous glucose monitoring reveals hypoglycemia risk in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Ishikawa Takahiro , Koshizaka Masaya , Maezawa Yoshiro , Takemoto Minoru , Tokuyama Yoshiharu , Saito Toshihiro , Yokote Koutaro
Published: April 2017

Aims/Introduction

The incidence of type 2 diabetes is higher in elderly patients, in whom this disease is associated with dementia, falling, stroke and death. We utilized a continuous glucose monitoring device to analyze the relationship between hypoglycemia and diabetes treatments to identify risk factors for hypoglycemia (defined as a blood glucose level <70 mg/dL).

Materials and Methods

We classified 170 patients aged ≥65 years with type 2 diabetes who were receiving steady‐state medication (29 of whom were inpatients) into hypoglycemic and non‐hypoglycemic groups, and compared their glycosylated hemoglobin levels, treatment types, continuous glucose monitoring data and other parameters. We carried out univariate analyses to identify variables associated with hypoglycemia risk, followed by multivariate analyses of drug class and other factors. The accuracy of the continuous glucose monitoring data was confirmed by calibration.

Results

Hypoglycemia risk was higher in the patients using insulin (odds ratio [OR] 2.17, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.16–4.08, P = 0.015), and lower in patients who were being treated with dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors (OR 0.47, 95% CI: 0.25–0.89, P = 0.019). Patients with lower variability in blood glucose had a significantly lower hypoglycemia risk (OR 0.87, 95% CI: 0.83–0.91, P < 0.0001), and those with a lower average blood glucose level had a significantly higher risk (OR 1.09, 95% CI: 1.06–1.12, P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

In patients aged ≥65 years with type 2 diabetes, higher glucose variability and lower average glucose levels indicate a greater hypoglycemia risk. It is therefore necessary to ensure comprehensive blood glucose control in such patients to prevent hypoglycemia.
The noble gas xenon provides protection and trophic stimulation to midbrain dopamine neurons
Authors: Lavaur Jérémie , Le Nogue Déborah , Lemaire Marc , Pype Jan , Farjot Géraldine , Hirsch Etienne C. , Michel Patrick P.
Published: April 2017

Despite its low chemical reactivity, the noble gas xenon possesses a remarkable spectrum of biological effects. In particular, xenon is a strong neuroprotectant in preclinical models of hypoxic‐ischemic brain injury. In this study, we wished to determine whether xenon retained its neuroprotective potential in experimental settings that model the progressive loss of midbrain dopamine (DA) neurons in Parkinson's disease. Using rat midbrain cultures, we established that xenon was partially protective for DA neurons through either direct or indirect effects on these neurons. So, when DA neurons were exposed to l‐trans‐pyrrolidine‐2,4‐dicarboxylic acid so as to increase ambient glutamate levels and generate slow and sustained excitotoxicity, the effect of xenon on DA neurons was direct. The vitamin E analog Trolox also partially rescued DA neurons in this setting and enhanced neuroprotection by xenon. However, in the situation where DA cell death was spontaneous, the protection of DA neurons by xenon appeared indirect as it occurred through the repression of a mechanism mediated by proliferating glial cells, presumably astrocytes and their precursor cells. Xenon also exerted trophic effects for DA neurons in this paradigm. The effects of xenon were mimicked and improved by the N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate glutamate receptor antagonist memantine and xenon itself appeared to work by antagonizing N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptors. Note that another noble gas argon could not reproduce xenon effects. Overall, present data indicate that xenon can provide protection and trophic support to DA neurons that are vulnerable in Parkinson's disease. This suggests that xenon might have some therapeutic value for this disorder.

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Early discrimination of sensorimotor Guillain‐Barré syndrome into demyelinating or axonal subtype by automated nerve excitability testing
Authors: Pyun So Young , Kang Mi‐Ri , Lee Ju Young , Kuk Kim Jong , Oh Seong‐Il , Bae Jong Seok
Published: April 2017

In the early stage of disease, differentiating acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (AIDP) and acute motor sensory axonal neuropathy (AMSAN) using only a conventional nerve conduction studies (NCS) may be difficult. We evaluated the differences in the motor axonal excitability properties of 16 cases of sensorimotor Guillain‐Barré syndrome by nerve excitability testing (NET). The antiganglioside antibody assay and follow‐up NCS resulted in 12 patients diagnosed as AIDP and 4 patients as AMSAN. Clinical and excitability parameters in each group were compared with those in 30 normal controls. Automated NET with threshold tracking techniques was used to calculate the strength–duration time constant (SDTC), threshold electrotonus (TE), current–threshold relationship (CTR), and recovery cycle (RC) of excitability. Except for subtle changes in excitability parameters, AIDP showed no definitive difference relative to normal controls. Comparison between AMSAN and normal controls also revealed no significant differences in the SDTC, TE, and CTR parameters. However, there were clear differences in some of the RC parameters: the relative refractory period was significantly longer in the AMSAN group than in the AIDP group (4.40 ± 1.11 vs. 3.09 ± 1.01 ms, mean ± SEM; p < 0.001), while superexcitability was significantly less prominent in the AMSAN group (−6.80 ± 10.30 vs. −26.48 ± 1.17%, mean ± SEM; p < 0.001). Our study identified that both AIDP and AMSAN were associated with subtle changes in excitability properties. Nonetheless, the prominent increase in refractoriness in AMSAN suggests the presence of a nodal conduction block.
Protective effect of cirsimaritin against streptozotocin-induced apoptosis in pancreatic beta cells
Authors: Lee Dahae , Kim Ki Hyun , Lee Jaemin , Hwang Gwi Seo , Lee Hye Lim , Hahm Dae-Hyun , Huh Chang Ki , Lee Sang Cheon , Lee Sanghyun , Kang Ki Sung
Published: April 2017

Objectives

Maintaining glucose homoeostasis is essential for the survival of cells. Despite the various health benefits of Korean thistle (Cirsium japonicum var. maackii), their effects on pancreatic β-cell apoptosis in type 1 diabetes mellitus and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear, and experimentally investigated in this study.

Methods

The effects of C. japonicum var. maackii and its active component cirsimaritin against streptozotocin (STZ)-induced cytotoxicity were assessed in INS-1 cells. By Western blotting analysis, protein expressions related to apoptosis were evaluated. The involvement of apoptosis was also confirmed with image-based cytometric assay and caspase activity tests.

Key findings

Cirsium japonicum var. maackii extract and cirsimaritin in non-toxic concentrations improved cell viability to near normal levels and protected INS-1 cells against STZ-induced damage. In addition, cirsimaritin reduced the intracellular oxidative stress induced by STZ. Cirsimaritin effectively suppressed apoptosis in pancreatic β cells by decreasing the activation of caspase-8 and caspase-3, BID and the DNA repair protein poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) and increasing anti-apoptotic BCL-2 protein expression.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the therapeutic potential and action mechanism of cirsimaritin for the prevention and treatment of type 1 diabetes mellitus.
Selection and optimization of nano-formulation of P-glycoprotein inhibitor for reversal of doxorubicin resistance in COLO205 cells
Authors: Dash Tapan K , Konkimalla Venkata Sai Badireenath
Published: April 2017

Objective

The prime objective of current work was to develop a strategy for preparation of combinational nano-formulation for reversal of drug resistance.

Methods

As a model system, doxorubicin (DOX)-resistant COLO205 cells were developed and validated. From co-treatment studies with DOX, curcumin was selected as it reversed DOX-resistance at lowest concentration. In an attempt to increase its solubility, curcumin was encapsulated into hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD). Here, we propose that presence of stabilizer overcomes its low encapsulation efficiency. Thus, we evaluated curcumin encapsulation in HP-β-CD in presence of different stabilizers and organic solvents. Finally, the effect of nanocurcumin with liposomal DOX was studied for reversal of resistance in COLO205 cells.

Key findings

In the process encapsulation, selective optimization of organic solvent by freeze-drying was found to be appropriate among other methods. From optimization studies with different organic solvent (acetone and dichloromethane) and stabilizer [polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and Pluronics], HP-β-CD-encapsulated curcumin prepared using acetone in PVA-stabilized dispersion increased encapsulation (60%) with size of ~40 nm. Prepared nano-curcumin reversed the DOX resistance effectively in combination with liposomal DOX.

Conclusions

Curcumin reversed DOX resistance in COLO205 cells at low concentration and enhanced curcumin encapsulation in HP-β-CD was noted in presence of PVA. Further, it was observed that prepared HP-β-CD-encapsulated curcumin is equi-efficacious to nano-dispersed curcumin.
Responses to Supplier‐Induced Disruptions: A Fuzzy‐Set Analysis
Authors: Reimann Felix , Kosmol Tobias , Kaufmann Lutz
Published: April 2017

Supplier‐induced disruptions are critical events that can either lead to dysfunctional conflict or spark more fruitful collaboration in buyer–supplier interactions. However, the focus on a single level of analysis in existing research has limited our ability to better understand the complex mechanics linking supplier‐induced disruptions and their consequences. Recognizing this need to bridge different levels of analysis, our study builds on event system theory and presents an in‐depth qualitative investigation of 60 response processes following supplier‐induced disruptions in Western–Chinese buyer–supplier relationships. Using fuzzy‐set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA), we explore how cognitive, behavioral, and structural factors across the individual and organizational levels of analysis combine in complex ways to give rise to either dysfunctional conflict or constructive interaction in the aftermath of supplier‐induced disruptions. Because little is known about the cognitive underpinnings of responses to supply chain disruptions, we investigate the specific role of managerial cognition. To do so, we employ a cognitive‐linguistic approach, which maintains that subtle differences in language reflect differences in cognition, for the textual analysis of our 101 interviews across 20 companies. The configurational fsQCA across the individual and organizational level identifies two archetypes associated with dysfunctional conflict and three archetypes associated with constructive interaction. These findings are the foundation of a middle‐range theory for responses to supplier‐induced disruptions that bridges different levels of analysis and accounts for the role of managerial cognition.
Primordial and cosmogenic noble gases in the Sutter's Mill CM chondrite
Authors: Okazaki Ryuji , Nagao Keisuke
Published: April 2017

The Sutter's Mill (SM) CM chondrite fell in California in 2012. The CM chondrite group is one of the most primitive, consisting of unequilibrated minerals, but some of them have experienced complex processes occurring on their parent body, such as aqueous alteration, thermal metamorphism, brecciation, and solar wind implantation. We have determined noble gas concentrations and isotopic compositions for SM samples using a stepped heating gas extraction method, in addition to mineralogical observation of the specimens. The primordial noble gas abundances, especially the P3 component trapped in presolar diamonds, confirm the classification of SM as a CM chondrite. The mineralogical features of SM indicate that it experienced mild thermal alteration after aqueous alteration. The heating temperature is estimated to be <350 °C based on the release profile of primordial 36Ar. The presence of a Ni‐rich Fe‐Ni metal suggests that a minor part of SM has experienced heating at >500 °C. The variation in the heating temperature of thermal alteration is consistent with the texture as a breccia. The heterogeneous distribution of solar wind noble gases is also consistent with it. The cosmic‐ray exposure (CRE) age for SM is calculated to be 0.059 ± 0.023 Myr based on cosmogenic 21Ne by considering trapped noble gases as solar wind, the terrestrial atmosphere, P1 (or Q), P3, A2, and G components. The CRE age lies at the shorter end of the CRE age distribution of the CM chondrite group.
Fatal remote cerebral hemorrhage at a site of a microbleed immediately after intravenous thrombolysis
Authors: Oomura Masahiro , Fujioka Teppei , Uchida Yuto , Kato Daisuke , Nishikawa Yusuke , Matsukawa Noriyuki
Published: April 2017

We report a patient with ischemic stroke who was treated with intravenous alteplase and subsequently developed a fatal pontine hemorrhage during cerebral angiography. An 88‐year‐old woman presented with right hemiplegia and aphasia. Magnetic resonance angiography at onset showed occlusion of the left middle cerebral artery. T2*‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging showed a cerebral microbleed in the pons. She was treated with intravenous alteplase followed by cerebral angiography. Left carotid angiography showed recanalization of the left middle cerebral artery, and neurointervention was not carried out. During the angiography, she became comatose. Computed tomography showed a massive pontine hemorrhage. The hemorrhage was considered to be attributable to the microbleed. The variety of time phases of cerebral microbleeds have been elucidated; there are a subset of lesions reflecting acute or subacute microhemorrhages. It is considered that expansion of a pontine microbleed induced by alteplase caused a fatal remote cerebral hemorrhage in the present case.
When prevention fails. Towards more efficient strategies for plant disease eradication
Authors: Vicent Antonio , Blasco Jose
Published: April 2017

This article is a Commentary on Hyatt-Twynam et al., 214: 1317–1329.
Individual pollen limitation, phylogeny and selection
Authors: Johnston Mark O. , Bartkowska Magdalena P.
Published: April 2017

This article is a Commentary on Trunschke et al., 214: 1381–1389.
Seeking help for obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD): a qualitative study of the enablers and barriers conducted by a researcher with personal experience of OCD
Authors: Robinson Karen J. , Rose Diana , Salkovskis Paul M.
Published: April 2017

Objectives

Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) can be hugely disabling. Although very effective psychological treatments exist, many people delay years before seeking help or never seek treatment. There have been clinical observation and short questionnaire studies on why people delay, but little qualitative research exists on this complex subject. The present qualitative study aimed to identify the barriers to seeking treatment and the factors that encourage or push people to seek help for their OCD (positive and negative enablers).

Design

A qualitative, exploratory study using in‐depth, individual, semi‐structured interviews was conducted by a researcher with personal experience of OCD.

Methods

Seventeen people with OCD, contacted through the charity OCD‐UK, were interviewed about the factors that impacted on their decision to seek help or not. The interviews were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Barriers identified were stigma, ‘internal / cognitive’ factors, not knowing what their problem was, factors relating to their GP or treatment, and fear of criminalisation. Positive enablers identified were being supported to seek help, information and personal accounts of OCD in the media, and confidence in their GP. Negative enablers were reaching a crisis point and for some participants (whose intrusive thoughts were about harming children) feeling driven to seek treatment because of the nature of the thoughts, that is, seeking help to prevent the ‘harm’ they feared they were capable of doing.

Conclusions

Participants identified a range of barriers and enablers that impacted on their decision to seek help or not. These give important indicators about the likely causes for delayed help seeking in OCD and ways in which people might be encouraged to seek help earlier.

Practitioner points

People with OCD may face a wide range of barriers to seeking help, including concern about the reaction of health professionals.

The level of awareness, kindness, and understanding shown by first‐line practitioners can be very important to those seeking help.

Acknowledging a person's journey prior to seeking help is likely to foster trust between therapist and patient.

Some barriers to seeking help, for example, fear of criminalisation, may continue to have an important effect afterwards unless sensitively explored and understood.
AIM2 inflammasome is associated with disease severity in tegumentary leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania (V.) braziliensis
Authors: Moreira R. B. , Pirmez C. , de Oliveira‐Neto M. P. , Aguiar L. S. , Gonçalves A. J. S. , Pereira L. O. R. , Abreu L. , De Oliveira M. P.
Published: April 2017

The inflammasome is a multiprotein signalling platform involved in the pathogenesis of various inflammatory skin diseases. Herein, we investigated gene and protein expression of the inflammasome molecules AIM2 and NLRP3 in active lesions from patients with L. (V.) braziliensis‐associated tegumentary leishmaniasis (TL) and correlated these findings with the clinical presentations and responses to therapy. Real‐time PCR assays showed a significantly higher AIM2 gene expression in mucosal leishmaniasis (ML) compared with that in cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL). Additionally, AIM2 mRNA expression was significantly higher in lesions from poor responders than in lesions from good responders. In situ protein quantification analyses revealed greater AIM2 expression in ML lesions than in CL lesions. The percentage of AIM2‐producing cells was higher in poor responders than in good responders. Although not quite significant, IL‐1β+ cells were slightly more prominent in poor responders than in good responders. Similar results were observed when patients were evaluated according to clinical form. GP63 immunostaining was identified in all samples, but no significant variation between mucosal and cutaneous lesions was observed. GP63 could be associated with reduced NLRP3 inflammasome expression in CL and ML patients. Taken together, these data demonstrate that AIM2 is an important component of the inflammasome in TL patients and is directly associated with the severity of lesions.
The effect of social capital on local suppliers’ exploitative and exploratory learning in global buyer–supplier relationships: the moderating role of contract specificity
Authors: Wang Lei , Terziovski Mile , Jiang Fuming , Li Jun
Published: April 2017

Drawing on the theories of social capital (SC) and organizational learning, a contingency theoretical framework that examines the impact of structural, relational, and cognitive SC on local suppliers’ exploitative and exploratory learning in the context of global buyer–supplier (GBS) relationships in China was developed. The extent to which the impact is moderated by the contract specificity between the buyer and supplier is also examined. The empirical results show significant positive impacts of structural and relational SC on local suppliers’ exploitative learning but significant negative impacts on local suppliers’ exploratory learning. More specifically, contract specificity strengthens the positive effects of all three dimensions of SC on exploitative and the negative effects of structural SC and relational SC on exploratory learning. They put forward several potential implications for practicing managers and policymakers.
Colostrum yield and litter performance in multiparous sows subjected to farrowing induction
Authors: Otto MA , Machado AP , Moreira LP , Bernardi ML , Coutinho ML , Vaz IS , Wentz I , Bortolozzo FP
Published: April 2017

Contents

The consumption of colostrum at a low level can compromise the survival and growth of piglets. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of farrowing induction on colostrum yield, IgG concentration and the survival and performance of piglets until the weaning. Sows of parity 3 to 7 were assigned into two groups: Control (n = 48), sows with spontaneous farrowing; and induction (n = 48), sows induced to farrow on day 114 of gestation with a PGF2 analogue. Colostrum and blood samples were collected from the sows, at farrowing and 24 hr later. Blood samples from the piglets were collected at 24 hr after birth. The performance of the piglets was evaluated in a subsample of 28 litters from each group. All piglets were weighed at 7, 14 and 20 days of age. The farrowing length, the number of piglets born alive, stillborn piglets, weight at birth, litter weight at birth and colostrum yield were not significantly affected (p > .05) by farrowing induction. There was no difference between the groups (p > .05) in the percentage of sows with obstetric interventions. Serum IgG concentration, in both sows and piglets, and colostrum IgG concentration were similar between the groups (p > .05). Furthermore, survival rate, piglet weight and litter weight at 7, 14 and 20 days of age were also similar between the groups (p > .05). Therefore, it can be concluded that the farrowing induction performed on day 114 of gestation does not affect the colostrum yield, the IgG concentration in colostrum and serum of piglets, and the litter performance until the weaning.
The Possibilities for Nongovernmental Organizations Promoting Environmental Protection to Claim Damages in Relation to the Environment in France, Italy, the Netherlands and Portugal
Authors: Fasoli Elena
Published: April 2017

Even though under the Environmental Liability Directive environmental nongovernmental organizations (ENGOs) cannot bring actions directly against liable operators, a trend can be noticed in France, Italy, the Netherlands and Portugal, with ENGOs avoiding addressing the competent authorities, and instead using traditional civil law mechanisms to sue liable operators before national courts. ENGOs usually claim material and/or moral damages. In addition, existing practice reveals another trend, although still embryonic, with ENGOs claiming the reparation of the damage to the environment in itself. In so doing, they face the difficulties of demonstrating a ‘direct and personal’ damage in court. This article calls for further clarification from case law and legislation as to the nature and forms of the reparation of the different types of damage that can be obtained by ENGOs through tort law and civil liability claims.
Post‐environmental Impact Assessment Monitoring of Measures or Activities with Significant Transboundary Impact: An Assessment of Customary International Law
Authors: Bremer Nicolas
Published: April 2017

Transboundary environmental impact assessment (EIA) is a rather new regulatory tool under international law. While there is consensus that customary international law obliges States to require transboundary EIA to be conducted for particularly invasive measures, the specific procedure and content of these assessment procedures is not stipulated by customary international law. It rather provides general principles that leave considerable room for interpretation by States when implementing transboundary EIA requirements and procedures. A procedural measure so far little discussed is post‐EIA monitoring of particularly invasive measures. Post‐assessment monitoring is, however, considered to be a necessary tool to enable stakeholders to manage environmental impacts effectively. Still, due to a lack of specific State practice and opinio iuris, an obligation to conduct or require post‐EIA monitoring does not exist as a separate provision of customary international law. Nonetheless, it may follow indirectly from the obligation to exchange information and the no‐harm rule.
Countering Abuse in EU Environmental Markets: The Case for Integrated Operational Safeguards
Authors: Kaime Thoko
Published: April 2017

Various European Union (EU) regulatory bodies have championed the use of environmental markets as a key policy tool to achieve environmental protection either in lieu of, or in addition to, more traditional regulatory programmes. When these markets work properly, they have the capacity to provide enhanced levels of environmental quality and can operate as more efficient mechanisms for protecting natural resources that provide vital services to people. However, if regulatory safeguards are absent from the legal frameworks creating such markets, it is unlikely that the theoretical benefits of these arrangements will be realized. This article assesses whether a number of EU environmental markets meet design standards that guard against these risks. It concludes that despite recognition of the danger of market manipulation and outright fraud, to date regulators in the EU have largely responded to these risks in an ad hoc and incomplete fashion, rather than embedding the mechanisms for operational accountability into the regulatory frameworks that govern green trading arrangements. Finally, this article identifies and prescribes five essential pillars for market‐based programmes for the environment that are necessary to provide operational safeguards. These include informational safeguards, transparency standards, rule of law safeguards, verifiable performance standards and financial fidelity rules.
Access to Environmental Information from Private Entities: A Rights‐Based Approach
Authors: Zuluaga Madrid Juliana
Published: April 2017

Access to information laws are increasingly being adopted, usually based on democratic ideals of government transparency and accountability. Some of these laws include private entities as obligated parties insofar as they exercise public authority or perform public functions. A human rights approach is taken when the law provides for public access to information held by private entities or individuals when it is required for the protection of the applicant's fundamental (or other) rights. This is the case in South Africa and Colombia, where access to information laws provide the possibility of any member of the public to seek and receive information from private persons for the protection of his individual rights. The present study explores this trend from the perspective of participatory rights found in the Aarhus Convention and other international instruments, with a view to analysing its potential contribution to increasing environmental transparency and effective public participation in environmental matters.
Effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions in treating orthostatic hypotension in the elderly and people with a neurological condition: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Logan Angela , Marsden Jonathan , Freeman Jennifer , Kent Bridie
Published: April 2017

Review question/objective:

The objectives of the review are to determine:

The effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions for OH in elderly people and people with a neurological condition.

Whether, in the elderly or people with a neurological condition who have OH, non-pharmacological interventions:

- are effective in improving OH, resting blood pressure and cerebral blood flow

- allow more or earlier mobilization (especially standing) to undertake activities of daily living and/or participate in rehabilitation programs

Specifically, the review question is:

What is the evidence base for non-pharmacological interventions in treating orthostatic hypotension (OH) in elderly people and people with a neurological condition?