bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aspire to build an ethical and sustainable organization? Renew thyself!
Authors: Sinha Sabyasachi
Published: December 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to discuss the concept of building sustainable organizations through focusing on continuous self-transcendence towards positive leadership traits, and how this effects the strategic leadership capabilities.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents the insights drawn from an in-depth hermeneutic-interpretive study of an ancient philosophical text.

Findings

Leaders at apex should lead organizations focusing on self-development. It is seen that several aspects of one’s choices and conduct in personal and professional life influence his/her self-development process. One who is able to follow the conduct discussed builds superior strategic capabilities leading to creation of more caring-compassionate-ethical-and-value-driven organizations.

Practical implications

Practicing managers aspiring to build ethical organizations should concentrate on self-development through self-transcendence as an important tool to influence the organizational level positive outcomes rather than only controlling others to effect such outcomes.

Originality/value

This papers integrates the contemporary thoughts on strategic leadership, ethical leadership and authentic leadership with ancient wisdom of influencing positive institutional outcomes through top leaders focusing on continuous self-transcendence – rather than focusing on others and coercing others to comply.
Oxygenic and anoxygenic photosynthesis in a microbial mat from an anoxic and sulfidic spring
Authors: de Beer Dirk , Weber Miriam , Chennu Arjun , Hamilton Trinity , Lott Christian , Macalady Jennifer , M. Klatt Judith
Published: December 2016

Oxygenic and anoxygenic photosynthesis were studied with microsensors in microbial mats found at 9‐10 m depth in anoxic and sulfidic water in Little Salt Spring (Florida, USA). The lake sediments were covered with a 1‐2 mm thick red mat dominated by filamentous Cyanobacteria, below which Green Sulfur Bacteria (GSB, Chlorobiaceae) were highly abundant. Within 4 mm inside the mats, the incident radiation was attenuated to undetectable levels. In situ microsensor data showed both oxygenic photosynthesis in the red surface layer and light‐induced sulfide dynamics up to 1 cm depth. Anoxygenic photosynthesis occurred during all daylight hours, with complete sulfide depletion around midday. Oxygenic photosynthesis was limited to 4 h per day, due to sulfide inhibition in the early morning and late afternoon. Laboratory measurements on retrieved samples showed that oxygenic photosynthesis was fully but reversibly inhibited by sulfide. In patches Fe(III) alleviated the inhibition of oxygenic photosynthesis by sulfide. GSB were resistant to oxygen and showed a low affinity to sulfide. Their light response showed saturation at very low intensities.
INTERORGANIZATIONAL UTILITY OF WELFARE STIGMA IN THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM*
Authors: LARA‐MILLÁN ARMANDO , VAN CLEVE NICOLE GONZALEZ
Published: December 2016

The appropriation of “welfare stigma” or stereotypes about poor people's overreliance and abuse of public aid in two core criminal justice functions is examined: felony adjudication in a court system and space allocation in a jail. Through a comparative ethnographic study in which an abductive analysis of data (20 months of fieldwork) was used, we show that criminal justice gatekeepers utilize welfare stigma to create stricter eligibility criteria for due process in criminal courts and occupancy in jails. Specifically, the number of court appearances, motions, trials, jail beds, food, showers, and medical services is considered by professionals to be the benefits that individuals seek to access and abuse. Professionals view their role as preventing (rather than granting) access to these resources. The comparative nature of our data reveals that welfare stigma has interorganizational utility by serving two different organizational goals: It streamlines convictions in courts, which pulls defendants through adjudication, and conversely, it expands early release from jails, which pulls inmates out of the custody population. In the context of diminishing social safety nets, our findings have implications for understanding how discretion is exercised in an American criminal justice system increasingly tasked with the distribution of social services to the urban poor.
Assessments carried out by a child abuse and neglect team in an Amsterdam teaching hospital led to interventions in most of the reported cases
Authors: Teeuw Arianne H. , Sieswerda‐Hoogendoorn Tessa , Aaftink Daniel , Burgers Ilsa A. V. , Vrolijk‐Bosschaart Thekla F. , Brilleslijper‐Kater Sonja N. , Heymans Hugo S. A. , van Rijn Rick R.
Published: December 2016

Aim

This study described cases of child abuse and neglect (CAN) that were reported to the multiagency CAN team at the Emma Children's Hospital in Amsterdam and the resulting interventions.

Methods

We carried out a retrospective review of all cases that were reported to the CAN team from 1 January 2010 to 31 December 2012.

Results

There were 27 prenatal cases, 92 referrals based on parental characteristics and 523 children. Overall, 1.2% of the children visiting the emergency department of our hospital, attending the outpatients department or being admitted were reported to the team. More than half of the referrals (55.1%) were confirmed as CAN. The most common diagnoses were as follows: witnessing intimate partner violence, physical neglect and emotional abuse. If CAN was confirmed an intervention was offered in 98.3% of cases. If a CAN diagnosis was undetermined or rejected, the figures were still 83.5% and 64.2%, respectively.

Conclusion

Our results showed that CAN affected more than one in every 100 children visiting our hospital, and the expertise of our hospital‐based CAN Team led to an intervention in the majority of the reported cases. The broad scope of problems that were encountered underlined the importance of a multidisciplinary CAN team.
Systematic review of childhood and adolescent risk and prognostic factors for persistent abdominal pain
Authors: Huguet A , Olthuis J , McGrath PJ , Tougas ME , Hayden JA , Stinson JN , Chambers CT
Published: December 2016

This review aimed to identify childhood and adolescence risk and prognostic factors associated with onset and persistence of persistent abdominal pain and related disability and assess quality of the evidence. While findings suggest a possible role for negative emotional symptoms and parental mental health as risk and prognostic factors for onset and persistence of persistent abdominal pain, the evidence is of poor quality overall and nonexistent when it comes to prognostic factors associated with disability.

Conclusion

Further research is needed to increase confidence in existing evidence and to explore new factors. This research will inform prevention.
Lack of respiratory depression in paracetamol‐codeine combination overdoses
Authors: Heppell Simon P. E. , Isbister Geoffrey K.
Published: December 2016

Aims

Codeine containing analgesics are commonly taken in overdose, but the frequency of respiratory depression is unknown. We investigated whether paracetamol‐codeine combination overdoses caused respiratory depression more than paracetamol alone.

Methods

We reviewed deliberate self‐poisoning admissions with paracetamol (>2 g) and paracetamol‐codeine combinations presenting to a tertiary toxicology unit (1987–2013). Demographic information, clinical effects, treatment (naloxone, length of stay [LOS], mechanical ventilation) were extracted from a prospective database. Primary outcome was naloxone requirement or ventilation for respiratory depression.

Results

From 4488 presentations, 1376 admissions were included with paracetamol alone (929), paracetamol‐codeine combinations (346) or paracetamol‐codeine‐doxylamine combinations (101) without co‐ingestants. Median age was 23 years (12–89 years); 1002 (73%) were female. Median dose was 12 g (interquartile range [IQR]: 7.5–20 g). Median LOS was 16 h (IQR: 6.5–27 h) and 564 (41%) were given acetylcysteine. Significantly larger paracetamol doses were ingested and more acetylcysteine given in paracetamol alone versus paracetamol combination overdoses. Seven out of 1376 patients were intubated or received naloxone (0.5%; 95% CI: 0.2–1.1%), three intubated, three given naloxone and one both. Three out of 929 patients ingesting paracetamol alone (0.3%; 95% CI: 0.1–1%) required intubation or naloxone, compared to two out of 346 ingesting paracetamol‐codeine combinations (0.6%; 95% CI: 0.1–2.3%; absolute difference, 0.26%; 95% CI: −0.7–1.2%; P = 0.62). Two out of 101 patients ingesting paracetamol‐codeine‐doxylamine combinations (2%; 95% CI: 0.3–8%) required intubation or naloxone. Four patients were intubated for reasons other than respiratory depression: hepatotoxicity (2), retrieval (1), no data (1). Two out of 929 (0.2%) paracetamol alone overdoses had a Glasgow coma score < 9 compared to three out of 346 (0.9%) in the paracetamol‐codeine group.

Conclusions

Paracetamol‐codeine combination overdoses are rarely associated with severe respiratory depression, with only two given naloxone and none intubated for respiratory depression.
The Mitochondrial Replacement ‘Therapy’ Myth
Authors: Rulli Tina
Published: December 2016

This article argues that two forms of mitochondrial replacement therapy, maternal spindle transfer (MST) and pro‐nuclear transfer (PNT), are not therapies at all because they do not treat children who are coming into existence. Rather, these technologies merely create healthy children where none was inevitable. Even if creating healthy lives has some value, it is not to be confused with the medical value of a cure or therapy. The article addresses a recent Bioethics article, ‘Mitochondrial Replacement: Ethics and Identity,’ by Wrigley, Wilkinson, and Appleby, who argue that PNT is morally favorable to MST due to the Non‐Identity Problem. Wrigley et al. claim that PNT, since it occurs post‐conception, preserves the identity of the resulting child, whereas MST, since it occurs pre‐conception, is an identity‐altering technique. As such, a child born with mitochondrial disease could complain that her parents failed to use PNT, but not MST. The present article argues that the authors are mistaken: both MST and PNT are identity‐affecting techniques. But this is of little matter, for we should be cautious in drawing any moral conclusions from the application of the Non‐Identity Problem to cases. The article then argues that the authors are mistaken in inferring that PNT is a type of embryonic cure or therapy for children with mitochondrial disease. The article cautions against the mistaken life‐saving rhetoric that is common in bioethics discussions of MRTs.
WP1066 suppresses macrophage cell death induced by inflammasome agonists independently of its inhibitory effect on STAT3
Authors: Honda Shino , Sadatomi Daichi , Yamamura Yasuo , Nakashioya Kazutaka , Tanimura Susumu , Takeda Kohsuke
Published: December 2016

The compound WP1066 was originally synthesized by modifying the structure of AG490, which inhibits the activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) by directly targeting Janus kinases (JAKs). WP1066 exhibits stronger anti‐cancer activity than AG490 against malignant glioma and other cancer cells and is regarded as a promising therapeutic agent. By screening a small library of target‐known compounds, we identified WP1066 as an inhibitor of macrophage cell death induced by agonists of the NLRP3 inflammasome, an intracellular protein complex required for the processing of the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)‐1β. WP1066 strongly inhibited cell death as well as extracellular release of IL‐1β induced by inflammasome agonists in mouse peritoneal exudate cells and human leukemia monocytic THP‐1 cells that were differentiated into macrophagic cells by treatment with PMA. However, inflammasome agonists did not increase STAT3 phosphorylation, and another JAK inhibitor, ruxolitinib, did not inhibit cell death, although it strongly inhibited basal STAT3 phosphorylation. Thus, WP1066 appears to suppress macrophage cell death independently of its inhibitory effect on STAT3. In contrast, WP1066 itself induced the death of undifferentiated THP‐1 cells, suggesting that WP1066 differentially modulates cell death in a context‐dependent manner. Consistent with previous findings, WP1066 induced the death of human glioma A172 and T98G cells. However, neither ruxolitinib nor AG490, the former of which completely suppressed STAT3 phosphorylation, induced the death of these glioma cells. These results suggest that WP1066 targets cell death‐modulating molecules other than those involved in JAK‐STAT3 signaling.
Bile acids: a potential role in the pathogenesis of pharyngeal malignancy
Authors: Shellman Z. , Aldhahrani A. , Verdon B. , Mather M. , Paleri V. , Wilson J. , Pearson J. , Ward C. , Powell J.
Published: December 2016

Objective

Gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease is thought to be a risk factor for head and neck malignancies. Bile acids are one of the principle components of gastric refluxate and have previously been implicated in the development of oesophageal and bowel malignancies. There is clear evidence that bile acids reflux into the laryngopharynx. Despite this, the carcinogenic properties of bile acids in this area are yet to be fully identified. We therefore investigated the potential role of bile acids in pharyngeal malignancy, through the highly conserved process of epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). EMT occurs in invasion and metastasis and is a central process in the development of epithelial carcinoma.

Design

Translational research study.

Methods

Human hypopharyngeal squamous carcinoma FaDu cells were challenged with primary (cholic or chenodeoxycholic) and secondary (deoxycholic or lithocholic) bile acids. EMT‐relevant proteins TGF‐β1 and MMP‐9 were measured in the cell culture supernates at 48 h via ELISA. Cell viability was confirmed >95% via CellTiter‐Blue assay.

Results

Significantly greater concentrations of TGF‐β1 were measured in the culture supernates of cells treated with cholic acid, deoxycholic acid and chenodeoxycholic acid. MMP‐9 levels were increased in deoxycholic acid and lithocolic acid stimulations when compared to control (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

This is the first demonstration that bile acids induce TGF‐β1 and MMP‐9 in pharyngeal cells. TGF‐β1 is considered a master switch for EMT, while MMP‐9 is a part of the EMT proteome which degrades basement membranes. This implies a potential role for bile acids in pharyngeal carcinogenesis through the mechanism of EMT and suggests potential novel therapeutic targets.
Circumstances surrounding non‐fatal opioid overdoses attended by ambulance services
Authors: Madah‐Amiri Desiree , Clausen Thomas , Myrmel Lars , Brattebø Guttorm , Lobmaier Philipp
Published: December 2016

Introduction and Aims

Opioid overdose fatalities are a significant concern globally. Non‐fatal overdoses have been described as a strong predictor for future overdoses, and are often attended by the ambulance services. This paper explores characteristics associated with non‐fatal overdoses and aims to identify possible trends among these events in an urban area in Norway.

Design and Methods

This is a retrospective analysis of non‐fatal overdoses from Bergen ambulance services from 2012 to 2013. Demographic, temporal and geographic data were explored.

Results

During the two years, 463 non‐fatal opioid overdoses were attended by ambulance services. Ambulance call‐outs occurred primarily during the late afternoon and evening hours of weekdays. Summer months had more overdoses than other seasons, with a peak in August. Overdoses were nearly twice as likely to occur in a public location in August (risk ratio 1.92, P = 0.042). Ambulance response times were more likely to be longer to private locations, and these victims were more likely to be treated and left at the scene. There was no difference in arrival time for drug‐related and non‐drug related dispatch.

Discussion and Conclusions

The temporal patterns suggest that non‐fatal overdoses occur during non‐recreational time periods. The longer ambulance response time and disposition for private addresses indicate potential opportunities for peer interventions. Our analysis describes circumstances surrounding non‐fatal overdoses and can be useful in guiding relevant, targeted prevention interventions. [Madah‐Amiri D, Clausen T, Myrmel L, Brattebø G, Lobmaier P. Circumstances surrounding non‐fatal opioid overdoses attended by ambulance services. Drug Alcohol Rev 2017;36:288‐294]
Roles and regulations of Hippo signaling during preimplantation mouse development
Authors: Sasaki Hiroshi
Published: December 2016

During preimplantation development, mouse embryos form two types of cells, the trophoectoderm (TE) and inner cell mass (ICM), by the early blastocyst stage. This process does not require maternal factors localized in the zygotes, and embryos self‐organize at the blastocyst stage through intercellular communications. In terms of the mechanisms of cell fate specification, three historical models have been proposed: the positional model, and the original and newer versions of the polarity model. Recent studies have revealed that the intercellular Hippo signaling pathway plays a central role in the specification of the first cell fates. Hippo signaling is active in the inner cells but inactive in the outer cells. The Hippo‐active inner and Hippo‐inactive outer cells take the fates of the ICM and the TE, respectively. At the 32‐cell stage, E‐cadherin‐mediated cell–cell adhesion and cell polarization by the Par–aPKC system activates and inactivates the Hippo pathway, respectively. Both mechanisms involve regulation of angiomotin, and cooperation of these mechanisms establishes cell position‐dependent activation of Hippo signaling. At the 16‐cell stage, however, asymmetric cell division produces the initial differences in Hippo signaling. At this stage, cell polarity is controlled by both Par‐aPKC‐dependent and ‐independent mechanisms. All three historical models are explained by the different regulations and roles of Hippo signaling. Based on these findings, I would like to propose the model by which the differences in Hippo signaling among blastomeres is first produced by asymmetric cell division and then enhanced and stabilized by cell position‐dependent mechanisms until their fates are fixed.
WONOEP appraisal: Biomarkers of epilepsy‐associated comorbidities
Authors: Ravizza Teresa , Onat Filiz Y. , Brooks‐Kayal Amy R. , Depaulis Antoine , Galanopoulou Aristea S. , Mazarati Andrey , Numis Adam L. , Sankar Raman , Friedman Alon
Published: December 2016

Neurologic and psychiatric comorbidities are common in patients with epilepsy. Diagnostic, predictive, and pharmacodynamic biomarkers of such comorbidities do not exist. They may share pathogenetic mechanisms with epileptogenesis/ictogenesis, and as such are an unmet clinical need. The objectives of the subgroup on biomarkers of comorbidities at the XIII Workshop on the Neurobiology of Epilepsy (WONOEP) were to present the state‐of‐the‐art recent research findings in the field that highlighting potential biomarkers for comorbidities in epilepsy. We review recent progress in the field, including molecular, imaging, and genetic biomarkers of comorbidities as discussed during the WONOEP meeting on August 31–September 4, 2015, in Heybeliada Island (Istanbul, Turkey). We further highlight new directions and concepts from studies on comorbidities and potential new biomarkers for the prediction, diagnosis, and treatment of epilepsy‐associated comorbidities. The activation of various molecular signaling pathways such as the “Janus Kinase/Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription,” “mammalian Target of Rapamycin,” and oxidative stress have been shown to correlate with the presence and severity of subsequent cognitive abnormalities. Furthermore, dysfunction in serotonergic transmission, hyperactivity of the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenocortical axis, the role of the inflammatory cytokines, and the contributions of genetic factors have all recently been regarded as relevant for understanding epilepsy‐associated depression and cognitive deficits. Recent evidence supports the utility of imaging studies as potential biomarkers. The role of such biomarker may be far beyond the diagnosis of comorbidities, as accumulating clinical data indicate that comorbidities can predict epilepsy outcomes. Future research is required to reveal whether molecular changes in specific signaling pathways or advanced imaging techniques could be detected in the clinical settings and correlate with epilepsy‐associated comorbidities. A reliable biomarker will allow a more accurate diagnosis and improved treatment of epilepsy‐associated comorbidities.
Genotypic tropism testing of proviral DNA to guide maraviroc initiation in aviraemic subjects: 48‐week analysis of results from the PROTEST study
Authors: Poveda E , Hernández‐Quero J , Pérez‐Elías MJ , Ribas MA , Martínez‐Madrid OJ , Flores J , Navarro J , Gutiérrez F , García‐Deltoro M , Imaz A , Ocampo A , Artero A , Blanco F , Bernal E , Pasquau J , Mínguez‐Gallego C , Pérez N , Aiestaran A , García F , Paredes R ,   the PROTEST study group
Published: December 2016

Objectives

Maraviroc (MVC) is a suitable drug for aviraemic subjects on antiretroviral treatment (ART) developing toxicity. Its prescription requires prior tropism testing. It is unknown if proviral DNA genotypic tropism testing is reliable for guiding MVC initiation in aviraemic subjects, so this study was carried out to address this issue.

Methods

PROTEST was a phase 4, prospective, single‐arm clinical trial carried out in 24 HIV care centres in Spain. MVC‐naïve HIV‐1‐infected patients with HIV‐1 RNA < 50 copies/mL on stable ART during the previous 6 months who required an ART change because of toxicity and who had R5 HIV, as determined by proviral DNA genotypic tropism testing, initiated MVC with two nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) and were followed for 48 weeks. Virological failure was defined as two consecutive viral load measurements > 50 copies/mL.

Results

Tropism results were available for 141 of 175 (80.6%) subjects screened: 60% had R5 and 85% of these (n = 74) were finally included in the study. Previous ART included protease inhibitors (PIs) in 62% of subjects, nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) in 36%, and integrase inhibitors (INIs) in 2%. Main reasons for treatment change were dyslipidaemia (42%), gastrointestinal symptoms (22%) and liver toxicity (15%). MVC was given alongside tenofovir (TDF)/emtricitabine (FTC) (54%) and abacavir (ABC)/lamivudine (3TC) (40%) in most patients. Eighty‐four per cent of patients maintained a viral load < 50 copies/mL to week 48, whereas 16% discontinued treatment: two withdrew informed consent, one had an R5 to X4 shift between screening and baseline, one was lost to follow‐up, one developed an adverse event (rash), two died from non‐study‐related causes, and five developed protocol‐defined virological failure.

Conclusions

Initiation of MVC plus two NRTIs in aviraemic subjects based on genotypic tropism testing of proviral HIV‐1 DNA is associated with low rates of virological failure for up to 1 year.
Microwave dielectric properties of low temperature fired Ba5Nb4O15 ‐ BaWO4 ceramics supplemented with their own nanoparticles for LTCC applications
Authors: Anil Kumar Chikkala , Pamu Dobbidi
Published: December 2016

Polycrystalline Ba5Nb4O15 (BNO) ‐ BaWO4 (BWO) composite ceramics are prepared by adding their own nanoparticles as a sintering aid. The prepared samples exhibited the maximum relative density of 98.2% at 900°C. The complex dielectric response of these composite ceramics are analysed by Havriliak ‐ Negami (HN) equation. The BNO ‐ BWO composite added with x=3 wt% of their nanoparticles, fired at 900oC displayed the best microwave dielectric properties; εr=39 and Q×f0=59.8 THz at 9.44 GHz. The obtained results of BNO ‐ BWO composite makes this material as a potential candidate for LTCC applications.
Synthesis, characterization, and magneto‐electric properties of (1−x)BCZT‐xCFO ceramic particulate composites
Authors: Paul Praveen John , Reddy Monaji Vinitha , Kolte Jayant , Dinesh Kumar Sakthivel , Subramanian Venkatachalam , Das Dibakar
Published: December 2016

Synthesis of a new magnetoelectric [(1−x)(Ba0.85Ca0.15)(Zr0.1Ti0.9)O3‐xCoFe2O4] (weight fraction x=0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5 and 1) ceramic particulate composites with its structural characterization and magneto‐electric properties have been reported here in this study. Lead free piezoelectric (Ba0.85Ca0.15)(Zr0.1Ti0.9)O3 (BCZT) and ferrimagnetic CoFe2O4 (CFO) were synthesized using sol‐gel and combustion methods respectively. (1−x)BCZT‐xCFO magnetoelectric composites were then synthesized by mixing of the calcined individual ferroic phases with required weight fractions. Powder X‐ray diffraction studies indicate the coexistence of BCZT and CFO phases in the composites sintered at 1300°C. 0.5BCZT‐0.5CFO composite showed high strain sensitivity (dλ/dH) of 52×10−9 Oe−1, which is comparable to that of pure CFO (50×10−9 Oe−1). A high piezoelectric voltage constant (g33) of 8×10−3 V m/N was measured for 0.8BCZT‐0.2CFO sample. All the composites showed magnetoelectric effect and a high magnetoelectric coupling coefficient (αME) of 6.85 mV/cm Oe was measured for 0.5BCZT‐0.5CFO composite at 1 kHz and a large ME coefficient of 115 mV/cm Oe at its resonance frequency. The effect of microstructure on the magnetoelectric properties of [(1−x)BCZT‐(x)CFO] composites has been studied and reported here as a function of its piezoelectric (BCZT)/ferrite (CoFe2O4) content.
Is there a role of food additives in recurrent aphthous stomatitis? A prospective study with patch testing
Authors: Gülseren Duygu , Hapa Asli , Ersoy‐Evans Sibel , Elçin Gonca , Karaduman Ayşen
Published: December 2016

Background

Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) is a common disease of the oral mucosa with an unknown etiology. This study aimed to determine if food additives play a role in the etiology of RAS as well as to determine if patch testing can be used to detect which allergens cause RAS.

Methods

This prospective study included 24 patients with RAS and 22 healthy controls. All the participants underwent patch testing for 23 food additives.

Results

In total, 21 (87.5%) RAS patients and 3 (13.6%) controls had positive patch test reactions to ≥1 allergens; the difference in the patch test positivity rate between groups was significant (P < 0.05). The most common allergen that elicited positive patch test results in the patient group was cochineal red (n = 15 [62.5%]), followed by azorubine (n = 11 [45.8%]) and amaranth (n = 6 [25%]).

Conclusions

The present findings show that food additives might play a role in the etiology of RAS and that patch testing could be a method for determining the etiology of RAS.
Effects of UV‐C on antioxidant capacity, antioxidant enzyme activity and colour of fresh‐cut red cabbage during storage
Authors: Zhang Jie , Yuan Li , Liu Wei , Lin Qiong , Wang Zhidong , Guan Wenqiang
Published: December 2016

Ultraviolet C (UV‐C) irradiation is a widely used nonthermal sterilisation method used to ensure the quality and safety of fresh and fresh‐cut produce. However, research focus of UV‐C has recently shifted from safety of sterilisation damage towards improvements in quality. Red cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata f. rubra) is a widely consumed fresh‐cut vegetable. In this study, the effects of UV‐C irradiation on the antioxidant capacity, antioxidant enzyme activity and colour of fresh‐cut red cabbage were evaluated. The UV‐C decreased the L*, a* and b* values, and it turned the colour darker and increasingly blue. UV‐C increased the activity of four antioxidant enzymes and also stimulated the accumulation of flavonoids, glutathione and ascorbic acids. The antioxidant activity of UV‐C treatment was higher than in the control group. These results suggest that an appropriate dose of UV‐C may improve the antioxidant properties of fresh‐cut red cabbage.
A review of methods used for investigation of protein–phenolic compound interactions
Authors: Czubinski Jaroslaw , Dwiecki Krzysztof
Published: December 2016

Interactions between the different compounds present in foods are common and have influence on the nutritional and functional properties of food products. Among a wide range of these interactions, the formation of complexes between proteins and phenolic compounds seems to be the most important issue. Complexation of the phenolic compounds with proteins can be analysed considering several aspects. These complexes might strongly affect nutritional potential of polyphenols by masking their antioxidant capacity, and on the other hand might have influence on the structure of proteins which may cause their precipitation or decrease susceptibility to digestion. The complexity of protein–phenolic compound interactions is a challenge for food analysts and forced researchers to establish a wide range of analytical methods, allowing determination of complexes formation. The main aim of this review is to give researchers an overview of the currently used methods that can be applied to study the interactions between proteins and phenolic compounds.
How meaty? Detection and quantification of adulterants, foreign proteins and food additives in meat products
Authors: Iammarino Marco , Marino Rosaria , Albenzio Marzia
Published: December 2016

The worldwide consumption of meat is increasing, especially in developing countries. Many studies have correlated a diet characterised by high intake of processed red meats with a risk of colorectal cancer, stroke, coronary heart diseases and diabetes. Moreover, the quality and safety of meat products may be compromised by several admitted and not admitted procedures (i.e. addition of food additives and/or foreign proteins). For these reasons, the topic ‘meat products’ quality and safety’ has gained much in importance during last few years. In this review, the recent advances in the field of analytical methods for the evaluation of meat adulteration due to the addition of foreign proteins and food additives are reported, compared and critically evaluated. Moreover, the most representative monitoring practices, developed worldwide, related to meats adulteration are described and discussed.
Frequency of rare BCR‐ABL1 fusion transcripts in chronic myeloid leukemia patients
Authors: Arun A. K. , Senthamizhselvi A. , Mani S. , Vinodhini K. , Janet N. B. , Lakshmi K. M. , Abraham A. , George B. , Srivastava A. , Srivastava V. M. , Mathews V. , Balasubramanian P.
Published: December 2016

Introduction

The hallmark of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is the presence of Philadelphia chromosome, its resultant fusion transcript (BCR‐ABL1), and fusion protein (p210). Alternate breakpoints in BCR (m‐bcr, μ‐bcr, and others) or ABL1 result in the expression of few rare fusion transcripts (e19a2, e1a2, e13a3, e14a3) and fusion proteins (p190, p200, p225) whose exact clinical significance remains to be determined.

Methods

Our study was designed to determine the type and frequency of BCR‐ABL1 fusion transcripts in 1260 CML patients and to analyze the prognosis and treatment response in patients harboring rare BCR‐ABL1 fusion transcripts.

Results

The frequency of various BCR‐ABL1 fusion transcripts was as follows: e14a2 (60%), e13a2 (34.3%), e1a2 (1.2%), e1a2 + e13a2 (2.0%), e1a2 + e14a2 (1.8%), e19a2 (0.3%), and e14a3 (0.3%). CML patients with e1a2 transcripts had higher rates of disease progression, resistance, or suboptimal response to imatinib and failed to achieve major molecular response.

Conclusion

Characterization of the specific fusion transcript in CML patients is important owing to the difference in prognosis and response to therapy in addition to the conventional need for monitoring treatment response. CML patients with e1a2 transcripts have to be closely monitored due to the high incidence of disease progression and treatment resistance/failure.
Growth of NBT template particles through topochemical microcrystal conversion and their structural characterization
Authors: Dursun Sinan , Mensur‐Alkoy Ebru , Sabuncu Abdulsamet , Berksoy‐Yavuz Ayşe , Gülgün Mehmet Ali , Alkoy Sedat
Published: December 2016

In this study, uniform rectangular plate‐like perovskite Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3 templates were obtained by molten salt synthesis method in three steps. Perovskite plate‐like Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3 templates were synthesized from bismuth‐layered Na0.5Bi4.5Ti4O15 by topochemical microcrystal conversion method at the third and final step. The most important point was that the plate‐like morphology remained as desired, but templates were obtained in cubic perovskite structure. The Na2CO3 excess in the third step was the main controlling parameter. The crystalline orientation of the particles was investigated by electron backscatter diffraction analysis. The results indicated that the particles are single crystalline in nature. In the case of the 90 mol% excess of the stoichiometric Na2CO3 ratio, the NBT platelets had highly regular, rectangular prismatic morphology and single‐crystal nature. The structure was also confirmed through high‐resolution transmission electron microscope and selected area electron diffraction analysis.
Synthesis of Sr2Nb3O10 nanosheets and their application for growth of thin film using an electrophoretic method
Authors: Lee Woong‐Hee , Im Mir , Kweon Sang‐Hyo , Woo Jong‐Un , Nahm Sahn , Choi Ji‐Won , Hwang Seong‐Ju
Published: December 2016

K(Sr2Nb3)O10 (KSN) ceramic without the secondary phase was obtained from a KSN + 0.05K2O specimen sintered at 1350°C. This ceramic was used as the precursor to synthesize Sr2Nb3O10− (SNO−) nanosheets, because it has a pure KSN phase with a large (002) plane. The SNO− nanosheets were deposited on a Pt/Ti/SiO2/Si substrate using the electrophoresis method at room temperature, and heated at various temperatures to get rid of the organic defects. The crystalline SNO phase without organic defects was formed in film annealed at 600°C. However, when the annealing temperature exceeded 600°C, the Pt electrode became unstable, resulting in degradation of the SNO film. Good electric properties were obtained from the SNO film annealed at 600°C: dielectric constant of 70, dielectric loss of 0.017 at 1.0 MHz, leakage current density of 3.5×10−8 A/cm2 at 0.2 MV/cm, and a breakdown electric field of 0.25 MV/cm.
Enhancing energy harvesting potential of (K,Na,Li)NbO3‐epoxy composites via Li substitution
Authors: Deutz Daniella B. , Mascarenhas Neola T. , van der Zwaag Sybrand , Groen Wilhelm A.
Published: December 2016

In this study, the influence of Li substitution on the piezoelectric performance of lead‐free K0.5Na0.5NbO3 (KNN)‐epoxy composites is explored. KNN piezoceramic particles modified with 0‐12 mol% of Li are prepared via a double calcination technique, resulting in a perovskite particulate which transitions from an orthorhombic to tetragonal crystal structure between 6 and 9 mol% of Li, and contains a minor nonperovskite second phase from 6 mol%. A cuboid particle morphology is evident in all cases, though tetragonal KNN‐based particles have formed with serrated edges and fractures. The particles are dispersed at 10 vol% in an epoxy matrix to develop both random and dielectrophoretically structured (K,Na,Li)NbO3‐epoxy composites. The dielectric constant of the composites appears almost independent of Li content, while the piezoelectric charge constant of structured composites peaks before the polymorphic phase transition, at 3 mol% of Li. The peak in performance can be attributed to the increased primary particle size of the composition in combination with its single phase orthorhombic crystal structure. The enhancement of the energy harvesting figure of merit, derived from substituting 3 mol% of Li in the KNN particulate, makes these composites an interesting choice for flexible energy generators.
Gingivitis and lifestyle influences on high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein and interleukin 6 in adolescents
Authors: Pitchika Vinay , Thiering Elisabeth , Metz Isabel , Rothmaier Katrin , Willenberg Anja , Hickel Reinhard , Standl Marie , Kocher Thomas , Heinrich Joachim , Kühnisch Jan
Published: December 2016

Aim

This cross‐sectional study was repeated at two time points and investigated the influence of gingivitis, smoking and body mass index (BMI) on the systemic inflammatory markers high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP) and interleukin 6 (IL6) in 10‐ and 15‐year‐olds.

Materials and Methods

The study sample of two birth cohorts, i.e. GINIplus and LISAplus, from the Munich centre consisted of 806 and 846 subjects who were evaluated at 10‐ and 15‐year follow‐ups respectively. Children and their parents completed questionnaires on participant‐related lifestyle information. Gingivitis was measured at the sextant level using a simplified sulcus‐bleeding index. Serum hs‐CRP and IL6 levels were obtained from blood samples. Multiple logistic regressions adjusting for lifestyle‐related factors and other confounders were performed to assess associations between the specified variables.

Results

There were no associations between gingivitis and the inflammatory markers hs‐CRP and IL6 in 10‐year‐olds. In 15‐year‐olds, gingivitis (aOR: 2.17; 95% CI: 1.25–3.77); daily smoking (aOR: 6.27; 95% CI: 1.39–28.39); and being overweight/obese (aOR: 4.95; 95% CI: 0.73–33.68) were identified as significantly influencing factors for elevated hs‐CRP values. Oral hygiene did not influence hs‐CRP.

Conclusion

In this study, hs‐CRP was positively associated with gingivitis, smoking daily and overweight/obesity among 15‐year‐olds.
Calcification of the lower respiratory tract in relation to flight development in Jamaican fruit bats (Phyllostomidae, Artibeus jamaicensis)
Authors: Carter Richard T.
Published: December 2016

The production of echolocation calls in bats along with forces produced by contraction of thoracic musculature used in flight presumably puts relatively high mechanical loads on the lower respiratory tract (LRT). Thus, there are likely adaptations to prevent collapse or distortion of the bronchial tree and trachea during flight in echolocating bats. By clearing and staining (Alcian blue and Alizarin red) LRTs removed from nonvolant neonates, semivolant juveniles, volant subadults, and adult Jamaican fruit bats (Artibeus jamaicensis), I found that calcification of the tracheal, primary bronchial, and secondary bronchial (lobar) cartilage rings occurs over the span of about 3 days and coincides with later developmental stages of flight and the increased production of echolocation calls. Tracheal rings that are immediately adjacent to the larynx calcified first, followed by more caudal tracheal rings and then the rings of the primary and secondary bronchi. I suggest that calcification of LRT cartilage rings in echolocating bats provides increased rigidity to counter the thoracic compressions incurred during flight. Calcification of the LRT rings is an adaptation to support the emission of laryngeally produced echolocation calls during flight in bats.
Associations of pain intensity and pain‐related disability with psychological and socio‐demographic factors in patients with temporomandibular disorders: a cross‐sectional study at a specialised dental clinic
Authors: Su N. , Lobbezoo F. , van Wijk A. , van der Heijden G. J. M. G. , Visscher C. M.
Published: December 2016

The study assessed whether psychological and socio‐demographic factors, including somatisation, depression, stress, anxiety, daytime sleepiness, optimism, gender and age, are associated with pain intensity and pain‐related disability in patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). In total, 320 TMD patients were involved in the study. The psychological status of each patient was assessed with questionnaires, including the Symptom Checklist‐90 (SCL‐90), Epworth Sleeping Scale (ESS), stress questionnaire and Life Orientation Test‐Revised (LOT‐R). TMD pain, including pain intensity and pain‐related disability, was assessed with characteristic pain intensity (CPI) and disability points scales. The associations of psychological and socio‐demographic factors with pain intensity and pain‐related disability were assessed through logistic regression analyses. Higher pain intensity was significantly associated with more severe anxiety (P = 0·004), more severe somatisation (P < 0·001), more severe depression (P < 0·001), more severe stress (P = 0·001) and lower optimism (P = 0·025) in univariate regression analyses. However, multiple regression analysis showed that only somatisation was significantly associated with pain intensity (P < 0·001). Higher pain‐related disability was significantly associated with more severe anxiety (P < 0·001), more severe somatisation (P < 0·001), more severe depression (P < 0·001), more severe stress (P < 0·001) and lower optimism (P = 0·003) in univariate regression analyses. However, multiple regression analysis showed that only depression was significantly associated with pain‐related disability (P = 0·003). Among the psychological and socio‐demographic factors in this study, somatisation was the best predictor of pain intensity, while depression was the best predictor of pain‐related disability.
Cetuximab sensitivity of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma xenografts is associated with treatment‐induced reduction in EGFR, pEGFR, and pSrc
Authors: Jedlinski Adam , Garvin Stina , Johansson Ann‐Charlotte , Edqvist Per‐Henrik , Ponten Fredrik , Roberg Karin
Published: December 2016

Background

The aims of this study were to validate in vitro drug sensitivity testing of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cell lines in an in vivo xenograft model and to identify treatment‐induced changes in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling pathway that could be used as markers for cetuximab treatment response.

Materials and Methods

The in vitro and in vivo cetuximab sensitivity of two HNSCC cell lines, UT‐SCC‐14 and UT‐SCC‐45, was assessed using a crystal violet assay and xenografts in nude mice, respectively. The expression of EGFR, phosphorylated EGFR (pEGFR), phosphorylated Src (pSrc), and Ki‐67 was investigated by immunohistochemistry. To verify these results, the in vitro expression of EGFR and pEGFR was analyzed with ELISA in a panel of 10 HNSCC cell lines.

Results

A close correlation was found between in vitro and in vivo cetuximab sensitivity data in the two investigated HNSCC cell lines. In treatment sensitive UT‐SCC‐14 xenografts, there was a decrease in EGFR, pEGFR, and pSrc upon cetuximab treatment. Interestingly, in insensitive UT‐SCC‐45 xenografts, an increased expression of these three proteins was found. The change in EGFR and pEGFR expression in vivo was confirmed in cetuximab‐sensitive and cetuximab‐insensitive HNSCC cell lines using ELISA.

Conclusion

High sensitivity to cetuximab was strongly associated with a treatment‐induced reduction in pEGFR both in vivo and in vitro in a panel of HNSCC cell lines, suggesting that EGFR and pEGFR dynamics could be used as a predictive biomarker for cetuximab treatment response.
The effect of two drug delivery systems in ropivacaine cytotoxicity and cytokine release by human keratinocytes and fibroblasts
Authors: Ferreira Luiz Eduardo Nunes , Muniz Bruno Vilela , Burga-Sánchez Jonny , Volpato Maria Cristina , de Paula Eneida , Rosa Edvaldo Antonio Ribeiro , Groppo Francisco Carlos
Published: December 2016

Objectives

Modified drug delivery systems have been developed to improve pharmacological properties of local anaesthetics. However, the inflammatory potential of these formulations was not investigated. This study compared the in-vitro effects of ropivacaine (ropi) in plain, liposomal (MLV) or 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) formulations on cell viability, apoptosis and cytokine (IL-1α, TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-10) release.

Methods

Human immortalized keratinocytes (HaCaT) and human immortalized gingival fibroblasts (HGF) were exposed to 1–100 μm ropi concentrations. The cell viability was measured by XTT and LIVE/DEAD assay. Apoptosis was performed by flow cytometry, and cytokine release was measured by ELISA assay.

Key findings

Human immortalized keratinocyte viability was reduced by ropi and both drug delivery systems. However, none of the formulations induced apoptosis. Results showed a differential regulation of IL-1α TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-10 by HaCaT and HGF. Ropi-HP-β-CD increased twofold the IL-6 release by HGF in comparison with the control, while 100 μm ropi-MLV led to an increased release of all pro-inflammatory cytokines by HGF.

Conclusion

The loss in cell viability was not related to cellular apoptosis. Ropi complexed with HP-β-CD showed a similar cytokine release pattern when compared to the plain formulation. Thus, the HP-β-CD form was a better drug carrier than the MLV form for ropivacaine drug delivery.
Conceptualising Educational Quality of Life to Understand the School Experiences of Students With Intellectual Disability
Authors: Faragher Rhonda , Van Ommen Mark
Published: December 2016

Various international reports over several decades present a less‐than‐favorable educational experience for students with disabilities. The continued failure of policy to address the factors that influence a quality education is contrary to the goals of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with a Disability. Research has found that quality‐of‐life domains have a close relationship to the articles contained in the Convention, one of which has a specific focus on education. Analyzing education from the perspective of quality of life may serve as an agent to effect needed change for students with disabilities. In this paper, we explore quality of life in the context of education for students with intellectual disabilities and conceptualize a new substrand of quality of life: EQOL—educational quality of life. A study of how family quality of life emerged from quality of life provides a way to rationalize the development of EQOL. Simultaneously a study of the literature related to the human experience and influences on school experience helped develop and support the conceptualization of EQOL. Our model is a multidimensional social construct underpinned by five principles, five domains, and related indicators. We propose this model as the basis for further research which will be needed to verify the structure before its use for measurement and as an agent of change. Understanding the influences on EQOL and the relationship between these influences can shape research design, policy development, and well‐being measures for all students. The resulting information can provide educational authorities, communities, teachers, and parents with the knowledge to priorities interventions and determine the effectiveness of these interventions on the school experience of students with a disability.