bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Architects of nature: growing buildings with bacterial biofilms
Authors: Dade‐Robertson Martyn , Keren‐Paz Alona , Zhang Meng , Kolodkin‐Gal Ilana
Published: August 2017

In his text ‘On Architecture’, Vitruvius suggested that architecture is an imitation of nature. Here we discuss what happens when we begin using nature in architecture. We describe recent developments in the study of biofilm structure, and propose combining modern architecture and synthetic microbiology to develop sustainable construction approaches. Recently, Kolodkin‐Gal laboratory and others revealed a role for precipitation of calcium carbonate in the maturation and assembly of bacterial communities with complex structures. Importantly, they demonstrated that different secreted organic materials shape the calcium carbonate crystals formed by the bacterial cells. This provides a proof‐of‐concept for a potential use of bacteria in designing rigid construction materials and altering crystal morphology and function. In this study, we discuss how these recent discoveries may change the current strategies of architecture and construction. We believe that biofilm communities enhanced by synthetic circuits may be used to construct buildings and to sequester carbon dioxide in the process.
Comparative metabolomics revealing Staphylococcus aureus metabolic response to different antibiotics
Authors: Schelli Katie , Zhong Fanyi , Zhu Jiangjiang
Published: August 2017

It is known that changes in bacterial metabolism can contribute to the modulation of bacterial susceptibility to antibiotics. Understanding how bacterial metabolism is impacted by antibiotics may improve our understanding of the antibiotic mechanism of actions from a metabolic perspective. Here, we utilized a mass spectrometry‐based targeted metabolic profiling technique to characterize the metabolome of a pair of isogenic methicillin‐susceptible and resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA and MRSA) strains RN450 and 450M treated with the sublethal dose of three antibiotics from different classes (β‐lactams, aminoglycosides and quinolones). These treatments induced a set of metabolic alterations after 6 h of co‐incubation with antibiotics. Similar and divergent metabolic perturbations were observed from different antibiotics to the tested strains. Different metabolic response from MSSA and MRSA to the same antibiotics was also detected in the study and indicated the potentially different stress response mechanism in MSSA and MRSA metabolism. This work has shown that a complex set of metabolic changes can be induced by a variety of antibiotics, and the comparative metabolomics strategy can provide a good understanding of this process from a metabolic perspective.
T7 RNA polymerase‐driven inducible cell lysis for DNA transfer from Escherichia coli to Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Juhas Mario , Ajioka James W.
Published: August 2017

The majority of the good DNA editing techniques have been developed in Escherichia coli; however, Bacillus subtilis is better host for a plethora of synthetic biology and biotechnology applications. Reliable and efficient systems for the transfer of synthetic DNA between E. coli and B. subtilis are therefore of the highest importance. Using synthetic biology approaches, such as streamlined lambda Red recombineering and Gibson Isothermal Assembly, we integrated genetic circuits pT7L123, Repr‐ts‐1 and pLT7pol encoding the lysis genes of bacteriophages MS2, ΦX174 and lambda, the thermosensitive repressor and the T7 RNA polymerase into the E. coli chromosome. In this system, T7 RNA polymerase regulated by the thermosensitive repressor drives the expression of the phage lysis genes. We showed that T7 RNA polymerase significantly increases efficiency of cell lysis and transfer of the plasmid and bacterial artificial chromosome‐encoded DNA from the lysed E. coli into B. subtilis. The T7 RNA polymerase‐driven inducible cell lysis system is suitable for the efficient cell lysis and transfer of the DNA engineered in E. coli to other naturally competent hosts, such as B. subtilis.
Target temperature 34 vs. 36°C after out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest – a retrospective observational study
Authors: Arvidsson L. , Lindgren S. , Martinell L. , Lundin S. , Rylander C.
Published: August 2017

Background

Intensive care for comatose survivors of cardiac arrest includes targeted temperature management (TTM) to attenuate cerebral reperfusion injury. A recent multi‐center clinical trial did not show any difference in mortality or neurological outcome between TTM targeting 33°C or 36°C after out‐of‐hospital‐cardiac‐arrest (OHCA). In our institution, the TTM target was changed accordingly from 34 to 36°C. The aim of this retrospective study was to analyze if this change had affected patient outcome.

Methods

Intensive care registry and medical record data from 79 adult patients treated for OHCA with TTM during 2010 (n = 38; 34°C) and 2014 (n = 41; 36°C) were analyzed for mortality and neurological outcome were assessed as cerebral performance category. Student's t‐test was used for continuous data and Fischer's exact test for categorical data, and multivariable logistic regression was applied to detect influence from patient factors differing between the groups.

Results

Witnessed arrest was more common in 2010 (95%) vs. 2014 (76%) (P = 0.03) and coronary angiography was more common in 2014 (95%) vs. 2010 (76%) (P = 0.02). The number of patients awakening later than 72 h after the arrest did not differ. After adjusting for gender, hypertension, and witnessed arrest, neither 1‐year mortality (P = 0.77), nor 1‐year good neurological outcome (P = 0.85) differed between the groups.

Conclusion

Our results, showing no difference between TTM at 34°C and TTM at 36°C as to mortality or neurological outcome after OHCA, are in line with the previous TTM‐trial results, supporting the use of either target temperature in our institution.
Persistent increase in TNF and IL‐1 markers in severe mental disorders suggests trait‐related inflammation: a one year follow‐up study
Authors: Mørch R. H. , Dieset I. , Færden A. , Hope S. , Aas M. , Nerhus M. , Gardsjord E. S. , Haram M. , Falk R. S. , Joa I. , Morken G. , Agartz I. , Aukrust P. , Djurovic S. , Melle I. , Ueland T. , Andreassen O. A.
Published: August 2017

Objective

We evaluated if plasma levels of inflammatory markers are persistently altered in severe mental disorders with psychotic symptoms or associated with state characteristics in a longitudinal study.

Methods

Soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor 1 (sTNF‐R1), interleukin‐1 receptor antagonist (IL‐1Ra), von Willebrand factor (VWF), and osteoprotegerin (OPG) were measured in schizophrenia (n = 69) and affective (n = 55) spectrum patients at baseline and at one‐year follow‐up, and compared to healthy controls (HC) (n = 92) with analysis of covariance. Association between change in symptoms and inflammatory markers was analyzed with mixed‐effects models.

Results

sTNF‐R1 was higher in the schizophrenia (P < 0.0001) and affective disorders (P = 0.02) compared to HC, while IL‐1Ra was higher in schizophrenia (P = 0.01) compared to HC at one year follow‐up. There were no significant differences between schizophrenia and affective groups; however, levels in the affective group were in between schizophrenia and HC for sTNF‐R1 and IL‐1Ra. There were no significant associations between change in symptoms and inflammatory markers.

Conclusion

Persistently increased sTNF‐R1 and IL‐1Ra after one year in patients with severe mental disorders primarily reflecting data from the schizophrenia group may suggest that inflammation is a trait phenomenon, and not only the result of stress‐related mechanisms associated with acute episodes.
New insights into the origin and the genetic status of the Balkan donkey from Serbia
Authors: Stanisic L. J. , Aleksic J. M. , Dimitrijevic V. , Simeunovic P. , Glavinic U. , Stevanovic J. , Stanimirovic Z.
Published: August 2017

The Balkan donkey (Equus asinus L.) is commonly regarded as a large‐sized, unselected, unstructured and traditionally managed donkey breed. We assessed the current genetic status of the three largest E. asinus populations in the central Balkans (Serbia) by analysing the variability of nuclear microsatellites and the mitochondrial (mtDNA) control region of 77 and 49 individuals respectively. We further analysed our mtDNA dataset along with 209 published mtDNA sequences of ancient and modern individuals from 19 European and African populations to provide new insights into the origin and the history of the Balkan donkey. Serbian donkey populations are highly genetically diverse at both the nuclear and mtDNA levels despite severe population decline. Traditional Balkan donkeys in Serbia are rather heterogeneous; we found two groups of individuals with similar phenotypic features, somewhat distinct nuclear backgrounds and different proportions of mtDNA haplotypes belonging to matrilineal Clades 1 and 2. Another group, characterized by larger body size, different coat colour, distinct nuclear gene pool and predominantly Clade 2 haplotypes, was delineated as the Banat donkey breed. The maternal landscape of the large Balkan donkey population is highly heterogeneous and more complex than previously thought. Given the two independent domestication events in donkeys, multiple waves of introductions into the Balkans from Greece are hypothesized. Clade 2 donkeys probably appeared in Greece prior to those belonging to Clade 1, whereas expansion and diversification of Clade 1 donkeys within the Balkans predated that of Clade 2 donkeys.
Metastatic triple negative breast cancer: Optimizing treatment options, new and emerging targeted therapies
Authors: Khosravi‐Shahi Parham , Cabezón‐Gutiérrez Luis , Custodio‐Cabello Sara
Published: August 2017

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a heterogeneous disease, not only on the molecular level, but also on the pathologic and clinical levels. It also has a distinct epidemiology. TNBCs are frequently of high histologic grade, typically more aggressive and difficult to treat than hormone receptor‐positive tumors, and they are associated with a higher risk of early relapse with visceral metastasis after surgery, chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy. The lack of estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 expression precludes the use of targeted therapies in advanced stages, and the only approved systemic treatment option is chemotherapy with or without bevacizumab. In patients with advanced TNBC, responses to chemotherapy occur, but are often of short duration and it is associated with poor prognosis. The median overall survival for patients with metastatic TNBC is about 9–12 months with conventional cytotoxic agents. Given the suboptimal outcomes with chemotherapy, new targeted therapies for TNBC are urgently needed. This review summarizes the clinical efficacy, perspectives and future challenges of using new treatment options for metastatic TNBC, such as poly‐ADP‐ribose‐polymerase inhibitors, antiandrogen therapies and immune checkpoint inhibitors (antiprogrammed death receptor‐1/PD‐L1 monoclonal antibodies).
Missing teeth: Discordances in the trade of hippo ivory between Africa and Hong Kong
Authors: Andersson Alexandra , Gibson Luke
Published: August 2017

As the global epicentre of wildlife trade, Hong Kong plays an important role in the preservation or demise of biodiversity, including species found continents away. If mismanaged, legal trade in threatened species can lead to unsustainable exploitation. Inaccurate and incomplete trade records from the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) undermine the regulation of this trade. We examine the trade of hippo (Hippopotamus amphibius) teeth to illustrate the extent of mismatched data between key trading nations. More than 90% of global hippo teeth trade is imported to, and re‐exported from, Hong Kong. Of that imported, over 75% originated in Tanzania or Uganda, but there are notable disparities in declared trade volumes. In most transactions, Hong Kong declares more volume imported than the volume declared exported by Uganda. Overall, Hong Kong has reported the import of 3,176 kg more hippo teeth than declared exported by Tanzania. This indicates that actual trade levels may exceed internationally agreed quotas. In total, over 14,000 kg of hippo teeth is unaccounted for between Uganda and Hong Kong, representing more than 2,700 individual hippos—2% of the global population. This gross discordance in trade data undermines regulatory measures and challenges the persistence of hippo populations in Africa.
Rural health service managers' perspectives on preparing rural health services for climate change
Authors: Purcell Rachael , McGirr Joe
Published: August 2017

Objective

To determine health service managers' (HSMs) recommendations on strengthening the health service response to climate change.

Design

Self‐administered survey in paper or electronic format.

Setting

Rural south‐west of New South Wales.

Participants

Health service managers working in rural remote metropolitan areas 3–7.

Main outcome measures

Proportion of respondents identifying preferred strategies for preparation of rural health services for climate change.

Results

There were 43 participants (53% response rate). Most respondents agreed that there is scepticism regarding climate change among health professionals (70%, n = 30) and community members (72%, n = 31). Over 90% thought that climate change would impact the health of rural populations in the future with regard to heat‐related illnesses, mental health, skin cancer and water security. Health professionals and government were identified as having key leadership roles on climate change and health in rural communities. Over 90% of the respondents believed that staff and community in local health districts (LHDs) should be educated about the health impacts of climate change. Public health education facilitated by State or Federal Government was the preferred method of educating community members, and education facilitated by the LHD was the preferred method for educating health professionals.

Conclusions

Health service managers hold important health leadership roles within rural communities and their health services. The study highlights the scepticism towards climate change among health professionals and community members in rural Australia. It identifies the important role of rural health services in education and advocacy on the health impacts of climate change and identifies recommended methods of public health education for community members and health professionals.
Comparison and interpretability of the available urticaria activity scores
Authors: Hawro T. , Ohanyan T. , Schoepke N. , Metz M. , Peveling‐Oberhag A. , Staubach P. , Maurer M. , Weller K.
Published: August 2017

The urticaria activity score (UAS) is the gold standard for assessing disease activity in patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU). Two different versions, the UAS7 and UAS7TD, are currently used in clinical trials and routine care. To compare both versions and to obtain data on their interpretability, 130 CSU patients applied both versions and globally rated their disease activity as none, mild, moderate, or severe. UAS7 and UAS7TD values correlated strongly (r = .90, P < .001). Interquartile ranges for UAS7 and UAS7TD values for mild, moderate, and severe CSU were 11‐20 and 10‐24, 16‐30 and 16‐32, and 27‐37 and 28‐40. UAS7 values were slightly, but significantly lower as compared to UAS7TD values (mean difference: 1.6 ± 4.6, P < .001). This difference was driven by lower wheal subscores (2.1 ± 3.5, P < .001) and was most pronounced in patients with severe CSU (2.5 ± 5.6, P < .01). The UAS7/UAS7TD ratio was 0.96 ± 0.21 and did not differ significantly between mild, moderate, and severe CSU. Since the results of both UAS versions are comparable, we recommend the use of the UAS7, which is less burdensome in administration and scoring.
Ilizarov technique and limited surgical methods for correction of post‐traumatic talipes equinovarus in children
Authors: Wang Xiao Jian , Chang Feng , Su Yunxing , Chen Bin , Song Jie‐Fu , Wei Xiao‐Chun , Wei Lei
Published: August 2017

Background

The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of using Ilizarov invasive distraction technique combined with limited surgical operations in the treatment of post‐traumatic talipes equinovarus in children.

Methods

Eighteen cases of post‐traumatic deformed feet in 15 patients who received the treatment of Ilizarov frame application, limited soft‐tissue release or osteotomy were selected in this study. After removal of the frame, an ankle–foot orthosis was used continuously for another 6–12 months. Pre‐ and post‐operatively, the International Clubfoot Study Group (ICFSG) score was employed to evaluate the gait and range of motion of the ankle joint. Radiographical assessment was also conducted.

Results

Patients were followed up for 22 (17–32) months. Ilizarov frame was applied for a mean duration of 5.5 (4–9) months. When it was removed, the gait was improved significantly in all the patients. The correction time was 6–8 weeks for patients who underwent soft‐tissue release and 8–12 weeks for those with bone osteotomy. At the last follow‐up assessment, the differences between pre‐ and post‐operative plantar‐flexion angle, dorsiflexion, motion of ankle joint and talocalcaneal angle were significant (all P < 0.05). The observed complications included wire‐hole infection in one foot, toe contracture in one, residual deformity in three, recurrence of deformity in two and spastic ischaemia in one foot.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that Ilizarov technique combined with limited surgical operation can be considered as an efficient and successful method for correction of post‐traumatic talipes equinovarus in children.
Sequence variants in ESR1 and OXTR are associated with Mayer‐Rokitansky‐Küster‐Hauser syndrome
Authors: Brucker Sara Yvonne , Frank Liliane , Eisenbeis Simone , Henes Melanie , Wallwiener Diethelm , Riess Olaf , van Eijck Barbara , Schöller Dorit , Bonin Michael , Rall Kristin Katharina
Published: August 2017

Introduction

Mayer‐Rokitansky‐Küster‐Hauser syndrome (MRKHS) is characterized by congenital absence of the uterus and the upper two‐thirds of the vagina in otherwise phenotypically normal females. It is found isolated or associated with renal, skeletal and other malformations. Despite ongoing research, the etiology is mainly unknown. For a long time, the hypothesis of deficient hormone receptors as the cause for MRKHS has existed, supported by previous findings of our group. The aim of the present study was to identify unknown genetic causes for MRKHS and to compare them with data banks including a review of the literature.

Material and methods

DNA sequence analysis of the oxytocin receptor (OXTR) and estrogen receptor‐1 gene (ESR1) was performed in a group of 93 clinically well‐defined patients with uterovaginal aplasia (68 with the isolated form and 25 with associated malformations).

Results

In total, we detected three OXTR variants in 18 MRKHS patients with one leading to a missense mutation, and six ESR1 variants in 21 MRKHS patients, two of these causing amino acid changes and therefore potentially disease.

Conclusions

The identified variants on DNA level might impair receptor function through different molecular mechanisms. Mutations of ESR1 and OXTR are associated with MRKHS. Thus, we consider these genes potential candidates associated with the manifestation of MRKHS.
Adjustable mini‐sling compared with conventional mid‐urethral slings in women with urinary incontinence. A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Rudnicki Martin , von Bothmer‐Ostling Katarina , Holstad Anja , Magnusson Claes , Majida Memona , Merkel Constanze , Prien Jens , Jakobsson Ulf , Teleman Pia
Published: August 2017

Introduction

The primary aim of this study was to compare the objective and subjective outcomes and short‐term complication rates of an adjustable single‐incision mini‐sling (SIMS) vs. standard mid‐urethral slings (SMUS). The secondary aim was to report pain perception and complications at the one‐year follow up.

Material and methods

The study was designed as a multicenter prospective randomized trial where women were included from eight centers in Denmark, Norway and Sweden. The trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01754558. A total of 305 women less than 60 years old with verified stress urinary incontinence were included. All women were randomized to SIMS (Ajust®; n = 155) or SMUS (TVT, TVT‐O or TOT; n = 150) and were evaluated by stress test and bladder diary before and after surgery and symptoms related to incontinence using ICIQ‐SF, PISQ‐12 and PGI‐S and PGI‐I. Objective cure was defined as no leakage during a stress test and subjective cure defined as no leakage stated in the bladder diary or no indication of urinary leakage in the ICIQ‐SF. Furthermore, mesh exposure and dyspareunia were recorded.

Results

In total, 280 women [141 (91%) in the SIMS and 139 (94%) in the SMUS groups] participated in the one‐year follow up. No difference between the groups was observed regarding objective and subjective outcomes. VAS score disclosed a lower postoperative pain perception in the SIMS group than in the SMUS group.

Conclusions

Ajust® appears to be as efficient as SMUS regarding objective and subjective outcomes and was associated with less pain perception during the postoperative period.
La gouvernance des organisations de l’Economie Sociale et Solidaire à l’épreuve dynamique de leurs « Grandeurs »
Authors: BOUILLÉ Julien , CORNÉE Simon
Published: August 2017

Cet article propose d’étudier, au plan théorique, les différentes logiques institutionnelles en concurrence dans les organisations de l’économie sociale et solidaire (OESS). Nous mobilisons dans cette perspective le modèle des Economies de la Grandeur de Boltanski et Thévenot (1987, 1991). Le caractère novateur de notre recherche réside moins dans l'identification des principales conventions qui modèlent la gouvernance des OESS que dans l'examen des conflits et des compromis possibles entre chacune de ces « cités ». Notre analyse souligne tout d'abord que la « compétition » de plusieurs conventions au sein des OESS génère des tensions organisationnelles difficiles à résoudre. Nous montrons ensuite que l'atteinte d'un compromis, en plus d’être éphémère, comporte un risque d'exclusion d'une « cité » qui peut conduire à une fragilisation de la gouvernance des OESS. Au final, nous traçons des perspectives de dépassement de ce risque en exposant différentes stratégies organisationnelles susceptibles de cadrer la gouvernance des OESS sans en altérer leurs identités, ni leurs « grandeurs » multiples.

Mots clés: Economie sociale et solidaire, gouvernance, Economies de la Grandeur, logiques institutionnelles, cités
Pharmacokinetic interactions and dosing rationale for antiepileptic drugs in adults and children
Authors: van Dijkman Sven C. , Rauwé Willem M. , Danhof Meindert , Della Pasqua Oscar
Published: August 2017

Aims

Population pharmacokinetic modelling has been widely used across many therapeutic areas to identify sources of variability, which are incorporated into models as covariate factors. Despite numerous publications on pharmacokinetic drug–drug interactions (DDIs) between antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), such data are not used to support the dose rationale for polytherapy in the treatment of epileptic seizures. Here we assess the impact of DDIs on plasma concentrations and evaluate the need for AED dose adjustment.

Methods

Models describing the pharmacokinetics of carbamazepine, clobazam, clonazepam, lamotrigine, levetiracetam, oxcarbazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, topiramate, valproic acid and zonisamide in adult and paediatric patients were collected from the published literature and implemented in NONMEM v7.2. Taking current clinical practice into account, we explore simulation scenarios to characterize AED exposure in virtual patients receiving mono‐ and polytherapy. Steady‐state, maximum and minimum concentrations were selected as parameters of interest for this analysis.

Results

Our simulations show that DDIs can cause major changes in AED concentrations both in adults and children. When more than one AED is used, even larger changes are observed in the concentrations of the primary drug, leading to significant differences in steady‐state concentration between mono‐ and polytherapy for most AEDs. These results suggest that currently recommended dosing algorithms and titration procedures do not ensure attainment of appropriate therapeutic concentrations.

Conclusions

The effect of DDIs on AED exposure cannot be overlooked. Clinical guidelines must consider such covariate effects and ensure appropriate dosing recommendations for adult and paediatric patients who require combination therapy.
Proximal Neuropathy and Associated Skeletal Muscle Changes Resembling Denervation Atrophy in Hindlimbs of Chronic Hypoglycaemic Rats
Authors: Jensen Vivi F. H. , Molck Anne‐Marie , Soeborg Henrik , Nowak Jette , Chapman Melissa , Lykkesfeldt Jens , Bogh Ingrid B.
Published: August 2017

Peripheral neuropathy is one of the most common complications of diabetic hyperglycaemia. Insulin‐induced hypoglycaemia (IIH) might potentially exacerbate or contribute to neuropathy as hypoglycaemia also causes peripheral neuropathy. In rats, IIH induces neuropathy associated with skeletal muscle changes. Aims of this study were to investigate the progression and sequence of histopathologic changes caused by chronic IIH in rat peripheral nerves and skeletal muscle, and whether such changes were reversible. Chronic IIH was induced by infusion of human insulin, followed by an infusion‐free recovery period in some of the animals. Sciatic, plantar nerves and thigh muscle were examined histopathologically after four or eight weeks of infusion and after the recovery period. IIH resulted in high incidence of axonal degeneration in sciatic nerves and low incidence in plantar nerves indicating proximo‐distal progression of the neuropathy. The neuropathy progressed in severity (sciatic nerve) and incidence (sciatic and plantar nerve) with the duration of IIH. The myopathy consisted of groups of angular atrophic myofibres which resembled histopathologic changes classically seen after denervation of skeletal muscle, and severity of the myofibre atrophy correlated with severity of axonal degeneration in sciatic nerve. Both neuropathy and myopathy were still present after four weeks of recovery, although the neuropathy was less severe. In conclusion, the results suggest that peripheral neuropathy induced by IIH progresses proximo‐distally, that severity and incidence increase with duration of the hypoglycaemia and that these changes are partially reversible within four weeks. Furthermore, IIH‐induced myopathy is most likely secondary to the neuropathy.
The last deglaciation of the Norwegian Channel – geomorphology, stratigraphy and radiocarbon dating
Authors: Morén Björn M. , Sejrup Hans Petter , Hjelstuen Berit O. , Borge Marianne V. , Schäuble Cathrina
Published: August 2017

Based on high‐resolution TOPAS acoustic data, bathymetric data sets and sediment cores from the Norwegian Channel, the last retreat of the Norwegian Channel Ice Stream has been investigated. Mapping of ice‐marginal features such as grounding‐zone wedges and terminal moraines off western Norway suggest that the retreat of the grounding line in this part of the channel was interrupted by frequent stillstands, whereas the channel south of the threshold at Jæren does not have crossing ice‐marginal landforms. Three main seismic units have been identified, and, based on their seismic characteristics, in addition to study of sediment cores, these units are interpreted as till (U1), glacial marine sediment (U2) and Holocene hemipelagic sediment (U3). Based on new and published radiocarbon dates of the lower part of U2, combined with dates from the adjacent areas, it is concluded that the grounding line started to retreat from the shelf edge at about 19 ka and that the inner part of Skagerrak was ice free at 17.6 ka. This gives an average retreat rate of 450 m a−1, which is generally higher than mean retreat rates estimated for other palaeo‐ice streams (15–310 m a−1).
Holocene development and permafrost history in sub‐arctic peatlands in Tavvavuoma, northern Sweden
Authors: Sannel Anna Britta Kristina , Hempel Liljen , Kessler Alexander , Pr≐skienis Vilmantas
Published: August 2017

Under changing climatic conditions permafrost peatlands can play an important role in the global carbon budget through permafrost carbon feedbacks and shifts in carbon assimilation. To better predict future dynamics in these ecosystems an increased understanding of their Holocene carbon and permafrost history is needed. In Tavvavuoma, northern Sweden, we have performed detailed analyses of vegetation succession and geochemical properties at six permafrost peatland sites. Peatland initiation took place around 10 000 to 9600 cal. a BP, soon after retreat of the Fennoscandian Ice Sheet, and the peatlands have remained permafrost‐free fens throughout most of the Holocene. At the four sites that showed a continuous accumulation record during the late Holocene radiocarbon dating of the shift from wet fen to dry bog vegetation, characteristic of the present permafrost peatland surface, suggests that permafrost developed at around 600–100 cal. a BP. At the other two sites peat accumulation was halted during the late Holocene, possibly due to abrasion, making it more difficult to imply the timing of permafrost aggradation. However also at these sites there are no indications of permafrost inception prior to the Little Ice Age. The mean long‐term Holocene carbon accumulation rate at all six sites was 12.3±2.4 gC m−2 a−1 (±SD), and the mean soil organic carbon storage was 114±27 kg m−2.
Exploring effectiveness of technology transfer in interdisciplinary settings: The case of the bioeconomy
Authors: Borge Laura , Bröring Stefanie
Published: August 2017

Research across different disciplines provides enormous potential for creativity and innovation. To exploit these vast innovation opportunities, technology transfer becomes pivotal. However, yet little is known about technology transfer in interdisciplinary settings. Thus, this paper focuses on the bioeconomy, an emerging area where innovation is triggered by the combination of knowledge rooted in different disciplines. Given the potential of the bioeconomy to address the major challenges of the twenty‐first century, understanding technology transfer in this interdisciplinary research setting is of key importance. In this context, this paper explores the effectiveness of technology transfer in the interdisciplinary research setting of the bioeconomy. Empirical evidence is gathered from eight comprehensive case studies to understand how these interdisciplinary institutions manage technology transfer. We contribute to the existing body of literature by extending Bozeman's “Contingent Effectiveness Model of Technology Transfer”. Specifically, we include the increasing attention being paid to interdisciplinary collaborations. Finally, we derive managerial recommendations to improve the effectiveness of technology transfer in interdisciplinary settings.
The right kind of people: Characteristics of successful ideators' online behaviour
Authors: Schemmann Brita , Chappin Maryse M.H. , Herrmann Andrea M.
Published: August 2017

Open online idea calls are an increasingly popular way to crowdsource ideas. Such calls tend to attract a diverse crowd who suggest a variety of ideas. To detect the most promising from this mass of ideas, we identify online behavioural characteristics of successful ideators, i.e. those who suggest ideas that are implemented. Our study is based on binary logistic regression analyses of a dataset from a call for ideas crowdsourced by the city of Munich. We found that characteristics linked to suggesting possible solutions and to showing positive attention towards other ideas are key features of how successful ideators behave online. We also found that the first is a characteristic of ideators who are likely to suggest an idea that is implemented but not novel. The latter is a characteristic of ideators who are likely to suggest an idea that is implemented and novel. Paying attention to other ideas before suggesting one's own and providing constructive input to other ideas are not found to be characteristic for successful ideators. The findings contribute to a better understanding of successful ideators' online behaviour and thereby open up new opportunities for the detection of ideas that the idea‐seeker wants to implement.
New neurotensin analogue radiolabeled by 99m‐technetium as a potential agent for tumor identification
Authors: Emrarian Iman , Sadeghzadeh Nourollah , Abedi Seyed Mohammad , Abediankenari Saeid
Published: August 2017

It has been shown that more than 75% of ductal pancreatic adenocarcinomas overexpressed neurotensin (NT) receptors. Overexpression of NT receptors has been reported in various human tumor types. Hence, a non‐invasive diagnosis and staging method could be very beneficial. In this work, we describe radiolabeling and evaluation of new neurotensin analogues to target neurotensin receptor‐positive tumors such as pancreatic carcinoma. Radiolabeling was performed at 95°C for 10 min using 99mTc in the presence of tricine/EDDA exchange labeling. Radiochemical yield analysis involved ITLC and HPLC methods. A binding assay test was carried out in nine different concentrations of labeled neurotensin analogues in HT‐29 cells. Radiopeptide‐specific binding and internalization were studied in NT receptors expressing HT‐29 cells. Biodistribution studies were performed in tumor‐free BALB/c mice and HT‐29 xenografted tumor‐bearing nude mice. The peptide was efficiently labeled by 99mTc with high radiochemical yields (>98%). The radioconjugate was thoroughly stable in the solution and human serum even for 24 hr. The radiolabeled peptide showed high affinity (32.66 ± 4.01 nm) and specificity internalization (>%18 after 4 hr) to HT‐29 cells. The radiopeptide efficiently showed tumor size and location in tumor‐bearing nude mice. In biodistribution, a receptor‐specific uptake of radiopeptide was observed in neurotensin receptor‐positive organs such as intestine. Uptake in the tumor was 4.59 ± 0.23% ID/g after 2 hr. Owing to excellent stability, high affinity, rapid blood clearance, low accumulation in non‐target organs, and high uptake in tumor, the 99mTc–HYNIC‐peptide is a potential agent for targeting of NTR‐overexpressing tumor cells in clinical surroundings. When successfully executed in the clinical surrounding, non‐invasive imaging of NTR‐positive tumors with 99mTc‐labeled new neurotensin analogues could facilitate therapy procedure and monitoring.
Characteristic elevation of soluble TNF receptor II : I ratio in macrophage activation syndrome with systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: Shimizu M , Inoue N , Mizuta M , Nakagishi Y , Yachie A
Published: August 2017

To investigate the clinical significance of soluble tumour necrosis factor receptor (sTNF-R) II/I ratio as an indicator of the diagnosis of macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) complicating systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (s-JIA), we measured the serum sTNF-RI and II levels in 117 patients with s-JIA, including 29 patients with MAS, 15 with Epstein–Barr virus-induced haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (EBV-HLH), 15 with Kawasaki disease (KD) and 28 healthy controls (HCs). We determined their correlation with measurements of disease activity and severity. Furthermore, we measured serum interleukin (IL)-18 levels in patients with EBV-HLH and compared these in levels in patients with MAS. The sTNF-RII/I ratio was elevated significantly in MAS and EBV-HLH patients compared with those in the acute phase of s-JIA and KD patients, whereas there were no significant differences between HCs and those in the acute phase of s-JIA. The sTNF-RII/I ratio increased profoundly as MAS developed and correlated positively with disease activity. Serum IL-18 levels were elevated significantly in MAS patients compared with EBV-HLH patients. The monitoring of serum IL-18 and sTNF-RII/I might be useful for the diagnosis of MAS and the differentiation between MAS and EBV-HLH.
Absorption and tolerability of taste‐masked hydrocortisone granules in neonates, infants and children under 6 years of age with adrenal insufficiency
Authors: Neumann Uta , Whitaker Martin J. , Wiegand Susanna , Krude Heiko , Porter John , Davies Madhu , Digweed Dena , Voet Bernard , Ross Richard J. , Blankenstein Oliver
Published: August 2017

Objectives

There is no licensed, dose‐appropriate formulation of hydrocortisone for children with adrenal insufficiency (AI) and patients rely on compounded adult medication. The aim of this study was to evaluate the absorption, palatability and safety of Infacort®, an immediate‐release, granule formulation of hydrocortisone with taste masking.

Study design

Single site with satellites attended by a “flying” doctor from investigator site.

Open‐label, single‐dose study in three consecutive child cohorts (n = 24) with AI; Cohort 1, children aged 2 to <6 years (n = 12); Cohort 2, infants aged 28 days to <2 years (n = 6); Cohort 3, neonates aged 1 to <28 days (n = 6).

Methods

Fasted children were given a single dose of Infacort® as dry granules administered directly from a capsule or spoon followed by a drink. The primary end‐point was the maximum serum cortisol concentration up to 240 minutes after Infacort® administration. Secondary end‐points were palatability and adverse events (AEs).

Results

All children showed an increase in cortisol above baseline after Infacort® (P < .0001), with geometric mean ± SD cortisol concentration at 60 minutes of 575.8 ± 299.5 nmol L−1. There was no failure in administration of Infacort®, and 95.5% of parents/carers preferred Infacort® to their child's current medication. In 7 children who completed the palatability questionnaire, 80% of responses were very good or neutral, and 20% were adverse. No serious or severe treatment‐emergent AEs were reported.

Conclusions

Infacort® is well tolerated, easy to administer to neonates, infants and children and shows good absorption, with cortisol levels at 60 minutes after administration similar to physiological cortisol levels in healthy children.
Diagnostic performance of unenhanced computed tomography and 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography in indeterminate adrenal tumours
Authors: Delivanis Danae A , Bancos Irina , Atwell Thomas D , Schmit Grant D , Eiken Patrick W , Natt Neena , Erickson Dana , Maraka Spyridoula , Young William F , Nathan Mark A
Published: August 2017

Objective

Evidence on the diagnostic performance of adrenal imaging is limited. We aimed to assess the diagnostic performance of unenhanced computed tomography (CT) and 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose (18FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)/CT imaging in a high‐risk population for adrenal malignancy using an optimal reference standard.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

Imaging studies of patients with adrenal nodules who underwent adrenal biopsy and/or adrenalectomy between 1994 and 2014 were reviewed and compared to the reference standard of histology. Eighty % of patients presented with known or suspected extra‐adrenal malignancy.

Results

Unenhanced abdominal CT was performed in 353 patients with adrenal lesions; median size was 3 (0.7‐15) cm and median radiodensity was 33 (−21‐78) Hounsfield units (HU). Radiodensity of >10 HU diagnosed malignancy with a sensitivity of 100%, specificity of 33%, positive predictive value (PPV) of 72% and negative predictive value (NPV) of 100%. 18FDG‐PET/CT was performed in 89 patients; median tumour size was 2.1 (0.7‐9.2) cm. Maximum standardized uptake (SUV max) was higher in malignant lesions when compared to benign lesions (median=10 [2.3‐29.4] vs 3.7 [1.4‐24.5], respectively, P<.0001). Similarly, median SUV max lesion to SUV max liver ratio (ALR) in malignant lesions was higher than in benign lesions (median=3 [0.74‐13.4] vs 1.2 [0.5‐6.6], respectively, P<.0001). 18FDG‐PET/CT ALR >1.8 diagnosed malignancy with a sensitivity of 87%, specificity of 84%, PPV of 85% and NPV of 86%.

Conclusion

Noncontract CT radiodensity of ≤10 HU excludes malignancy even in a high‐risk population. For indeterminate adrenal lesions, given a superior specificity, 18FDG‐PET/CT could be considered as a second stage imaging study.
Health‐related quality of life in randomized controlled trials of lorcaserin for obesity management: what mediates improvement?
Authors: Kolotkin R. L. , Crosby R. D. , Wang Z.
Published: August 2017

Lorcaserin, plus diet and exercise, has demonstrated significant weight loss and improved cardiometabolic parameters vs. placebo in patients with overweight/obesity in three randomized, placebo‐controlled trials. We examined whether lorcaserin is also associated with greater improvements in health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) and whether these improvements are wholly attributable to weight loss. Pooled data from Behavioral Modification and Lorcaserin for Overweight and Obesity Management (BLOOM), Behavioral Modification and Lorcaserin Second Study for Obesity Management (BLOSSOM) and BLOOM‐Diabetes Mellitus (BLOOM‐DM) trials were analysed (n = 5624). HRQOL was assessed at baseline and 52 weeks using the Impact of Weight on Quality of Life‐Lite (IWQOL‐Lite) questionnaire. Multiple mediation analyses were conducted to evaluate the mechanisms underlying improved HRQOL. Greater HRQOL improvements were observed at 52 weeks in lorcaserin vs. placebo (P < 0.0001). A greater percentage of lorcaserin patients (54.1%) experienced meaningful improvements in IWQOL‐Lite total score than placebo patients (48.2%) (P < 0.001). Body mass index (BMI) reduction was the primary driver of improved HRQOL (P < 0.0001), with depressive symptoms and total cholesterol also playing a role (P < 0.05). Improved HRQOL varied by gender, age, race and presence of diabetes and other comorbidities. Lorcaserin treatment significantly improves HRQOL compared with placebo. Although BMI reduction accounts for the majority of these improvements, improvement in depressive symptoms and total cholesterol are contributing factors.
Understanding implications of consumer behavior for wildlife farming and sustainable wildlife trade
Authors: Nuno A. , Blumenthal J. M. , Austin T. J. , Bothwell J. , Ebanks‐Petrie G. , Godley B. J. , Broderick A. C.
Published: August 2017

Unsustainable wildlife trade affects biodiversity and the livelihoods of communities dependent upon those resources. Wildlife farming has been proposed to promote sustainable trade, but characterizing markets and understanding consumer behavior remain neglected but essential steps in the design and evaluation of such operations. We used sea turtle trade in the Cayman Islands, where turtles have been farm raised for human consumption for almost 50 years, as a case study to explore consumer preferences toward wild‐sourced (illegal) and farmed (legal) products and potential conservation implications. Combining methods innovatively (including indirect questioning and choice experiments), we conducted a nationwide trade assessment through in‐person interviews from September to December 2014. Households were randomly selected using disproportionate stratified sampling, and responses were weighted based on district population size. We approached 597 individuals, of which 37 (6.2%) refused to participate. Although 30% of households had consumed turtle in the previous 12 months, the purchase and consumption of wild products was rare (e.g., 64–742 resident households consumed wild turtle meat [i.e., 0.3–3.5% of households] but represented a large threat to wild turtles in the area due to their reduced populations). Differences among groups of consumers were marked, as identified through choice experiments, and price and source of product played important roles in their decisions. Despite the long‐term practice of farming turtles, 13.5% of consumers showed a strong preference for wild products, which demonstrates the limitations of wildlife farming as a single tool for sustainable wildlife trade. By using a combination of indirect questioning, choice experiments, and sales data to investigate demand for wildlife products, we obtained insights about consumer behavior that can be used to develop conservation‐demand‐focused initiatives. Lack of data from long‐term social–ecological assessments hinders the evaluation of and learning from wildlife farming. This information is key to understanding under which conditions different interventions (e.g., bans, wildlife farming, social marketing) are likely to succeed.
Application of ozone gas for the stripping of fabric ink‐jet‐printed with reactive dyes
Authors: Kıcık Hülya , Eren Hüseyin Aksel
Published: August 2017

In this study, a novel process utilizing ozone was carried out for colour stripping of fabrics misprinted with reactive dyes in ink‐jet machines. The results of ozone applications were compared with conventional colour stripping process performed by thiourea dioxide (TUDO) and soda ash. In trials, cotton‐based and viscose‐based woven fabrics were used as these fabrics were the most utilized at the textile mill in which this study was performed. Different ozone treatment times (30, 45, 60 or 90 min) were tested to find optimum process time and it was found that process times depended on fabric type. Particularly, colour stripping on high density and thick fabrics were harder than low density and thin fabric types. Fabric strengths, whiteness indexes and chemical oxygen demand (COD) values were measured. Also energy, chemical and water consumptions were calculated. Consequently, it was found that the reduction of the COD value of effluent was up to 98%. The calculations showed that the savings in time and cost in ozone treatment were up to 77%. Satisfactory colour stripping and tensile strengths were achieved.