bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low-income low-qualified employees’ access to workplace learning
Authors: McPherson Rebecca , Wang Jia
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper was to investigate the embedded process that enables or constrains low-income low-qualified employees’ access to workplace learning in small organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

– Informed by the sociomaterial approach and cultural historical activity theory, this study adopted a qualitative cross-case study method. Data were collected from three small business owners in Central Texas, USA. Data included interviews and organizational artifacts and were analyzed using a constant comparative and inductive thematic data analysis.

Findings

– This study extends existing literature for low-income low-qualified employees by elucidating business owners’ motivations to develop supportive employment relationships. Despite incongruent value systems, subordinates were provided equal access to workplace learning based on organizations’ needs and business owners’ value systems.

Research limitations/implications

– The organizations’ small size and business owners’ position as the sole decision maker potentially create a different embedded context from supervisors who are subordinates in larger organizations. Further, findings from this qualitative study cannot be generalized without caution.

Practical implications

– The findings from this study suggest that workforce professionals should consider the advantages of small organizations for low-qualified clients seeking employment and adult education opportunities. More research is needed to generalize findings that delineate work situations where low-qualified employees can gain equal access to workplace learning and gain access to adult learning opportunities that lead to job mobility.

Originality/value

– This study identified an organizational context where business owners support workplace learning for low-income low-qualified employees with incongruent value systems.
Uncovering a “Singaporean Way”: learning amidst diversity
Authors: Tan Renée Hui Ling
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– The paper aims to explore the possibility of advancing a Singaporean way of learning within the continuing education and training landscape in Singapore.

Design/methodology/approach

– Using the vehicle of a narrative interview and extending the boundaries of autoethnography, the paper uses personal reflection and interpretation to explore the issues of Singaporean identity amidst the diversity in the globalised Singapore of today.

Findings

– The paper uncovers the growing latent discomfort of Singaporeans as they navigate historical legacies of Colonialism and question what it means to be schooled in Western systems whilst being Asian. With the supplanting of Asian languages and the seeming superiority and dominance of Western talent, systems and knowledge, Singaporeans are looking to express a greater sense of what being Singaporean could mean.

Social implications

– Upon manoeuvring and exposing the invisible, the paper concludes that there is an impetus to forge a “Singaporean way”, although how this would manifest itself is, as yet, unknown.

Originality/value

– Although Singapore has a very visible presence globally for its economic achievements, the paper allows for an often under-represented voice of a native Singaporean to be heard. The liberties taken here with the narrative inquiry mode also allow space for a deeper exploration of identity, pride and conflict in a Singaporean today.
Antihyperglycemic effect of ipragliflozin, a sodium‐glucose co‐transporter 2 inhibitor, in combination with oral antidiabetic drugs in mice
Authors: Takasu Toshiyuki , Hayashizaki Yuka , Tahara Atsuo , Kurosaki Eiji , Takakura Shoji
Published: October 2014

Inhibition of sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 is a novel strategy for glycemic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. As the mechanism of action of sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors on plasma glucose levels is distinct from that of existing oral antidiabetic drugs, a combination of the two might provide a therapeutic benefit. Here, we investigated the antihyperglycemic effect of ipragliflozin, a selective sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor, alone or in combination with oral antidiabetic drugs in a range of relevant mouse models to analyse the blood glucose‐lowering properties of different drug types based on their mechanism of action. Oral glucose tolerance tests in ICR mice were used to evaluate the effect of ipragliflozin in combination with the insulin secretagogues, glibenclamide or nateglinide. Liquid meal tests in ICR mice and diabetic KK‐Ay mice were used to investigate the combined effect of ipragliflozin with the dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor, sitagliptin, and α‐glucosidase inhibitor, voglibose, respectively. Four‐week repeated administration tests in KK‐Ay mice were used to examine the combined effect of ipragliflozin with the insulin sensitizers, pioglitazone and metformin. In all mouse models tested, the combination of ipragliflozin and existing oral antidiabetic drugs lowered blood glucose or glycated hemoglobin levels more than either monotherapy. In conclusion, inhibition of sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 by ipragliflozin, alone or in combination with existing oral antidiabetic drugs, has a robust effect on blood glucose levels in a range of mouse models of hyperglycemia.
Non‐antiplatelet effect of clopidogrel: improving endothelial function in Chinese healthy subjects with different CYP2C19 genotype
Authors: Zhang Yin‐Zhuang , Chen Bi‐Lian , Zhang Wei , Cao Xin
Published: October 2014

Clopidogrel has been shown to improve endothelial function in vitro and in patients with coronary artery disease. However, it remains unclear whether such an effect of clopidogrel is associated with CYP2C19 polymorphisms that determine the antiplatelet effect of clopidogrel. After genotyping, 12 healthy participants were enrolled in the study. Among them, six participants were CYP2C19*1/*1 (extensive metabolizers; EM) and the other six participants were CYP2C19*2/*2 or *3 (poor metabolizers; PM). All participants received 300 mg clopidogel orally. Endothelial function was assessed by measurement of flow‐mediated dilation of the brachial artery, and adenosine diphosphate‐induced platelet aggregation was determined by using optical aggregometry at 0, 4 and 24 h after administration of 300 mg clopidogrel. Flow‐mediated dilation was significantly higher at 4 and 24 h after a loading‐dose administration of clopidogrel in both the CYP2C19 EM and PM groups, but showed no significant difference between the two groups. Adenosine diphosphate‐induced platelet aggregation was significantly inhibited at 4 and 24 h after administration of clopidogrel in the CYP2C19 EM group. However, there was no statistical correlation between the change in flow‐mediated dilation and adenosine diphosphate‐induced platelet aggregation in the two CYP2C19 groups. This is the first study to report that clopidogrel improves endothelial function in healthy Chinese subjects, which is unrelated with the CYP2C19 genotype and independent of antiplatelet action.
Effects of social and climatic factors on birth sex ratio in Macaca mulatta in Mount Taihangshan area
Authors: TIAN Jundong , WANG Baishi , WANG Zhenlong , LIU Jindong , LU Jiqi
Published: October 2014

Sex allocation theory predicts the optimal investment to male and female offspring. However, a biased sex ratio requires explanations as to why the deviation occurs. Rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta) is the most widely distributed nonhuman primate species and the Taihangshan macaque (Macaca mulatta tcheliensis) occupies the northern limit of all rhesus macaque natural populations worldwide. We observed one macaque troop (Wangwu‐1 [WW‐1]) inhabiting Taihangshan Macaque National Nature Reserve and recorded all birth events and the sex of newborn macaques from 2004 to 2013. Our aim was to apply the Trivers–Willard hypothesis to this free‐ranging rhesus macaque troop, and to understand the relationship between climatic parameters (precipitation and temperature) and birth sex ratio. We found that the total newborn macaques showed a female‐biased sex ratio at birth in the WW‐1 troop, but there were no significant biased birth sex ratios in all matriarchs and in high‐ranking and middle‐ranking matrilineal units. However, the low‐ranking macaque matrilineal unit was significantly female‐biased. Moreover, we found that the annual precipitation of the previous year was positively associated with the birth sex ratio, and there was an interactive effect of troop size and current winter temperature on the birth sex ratio. The underlying mechanisms for the effects of social and climatic factors on birth sex ratio could be complex, and we discuss several plausible explanations.
IL28B genetic variations are associated with treatment response of patients with chronic hepatitis C in a Chinese Han population
Authors: Dong Zhi Xia , Zhou Hui Juan , Xiang Xiao Gang , Guo Si Min , Zhuang Yan , Zhao Gang De , Xie Qing
Published: October 2014

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the association between interleukin 28B (IL28B) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and sustained virological response (SVR) in Chinese Han patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) and to analyze the correlations between IL28B SNPs and their personal, virological and clinical characteristics.

Methods

Altogether 631 Chinese Han individuals, including 297 CHC patients treated with pegylated interferon α plus ribavirin, 14 spontaneous responders to hepatitis C virus (HCV) and 320 healthy controls were enrolled in the study. Two main SNPs of IL28B, rs12979860 and rs8099917, were genotyped using an SNaPshot Multiplex Assay. Associations between IL28B, treatment outcomes and the patients' characteristics were assessed by multivariate logistic regression.

Results

The proportion of individuals with the rs12979860 CC or rs8099917 TT genotype was similar in the healthy controls and the CHC patients, although all spontaneous responders presented with both genotypes. Patients with IL28B genotypes had a significantly high rate of rapid virological response (RVR) and SVR. Multivariate analysis revealed that the IL28B SNP rs12979860 CC genotype, being aged <40 years and having a non‐genotype 1 (G1) were independent predictors for SVR. The rs12979860 CC genotype and rs8099917 TT genotypes were predictors for RVR. The rs12979860 CC and rs8099917 TT genotypes were more prevalent in patients with a non‐G1 genotype than those with G1 genotype.

Conclusions

IL28B rs12979860 CC genotype is a significant predictor for SVR and RVR in Chinese Han patients with CHC. Non‐G1 HCV genotype is associated with favourable IL28Bgenotypes.
Propofol and survival: a meta‐analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: PASIN L. , LANDONI G. , CABRINI L. , BORGHI G. , TADDEO D. , SALEH O. , GRECO T. , MONTI G. , CHIESA R. , ZANGRILLO A.
Published: October 2014

Background

One of the most commonly used hypnotics is propofol. Several studies performed in cardiac surgery suggested an increased mortality in patients receiving a propofol‐based total intravenous anaesthesia. Furthermore, the possibility of infections and the ‘propofol syndrome’ have suggested that propofol might be dangerous. Nonetheless, propofol is widely used in different settings because of its characteristics: fast induction, rapid elimination, short duration of action, smooth recovery from anaesthesia, few adverse effects, no teratogenic effects, characteristics that have undoubtedly contributed to its popularity. The effect of propofol on survival is unknown. We decided to carry out a meta‐analysis of all randomized controlled studies ever performed on propofol vs. any comparator in any clinical setting.

Methods

Pertinent studies were independently searched in BioMedCentral, PubMed, Embase, Clinicaltrial.gov, and Cochrane Central Register of Clinical Trials by expert investigators. The following inclusion criteria were used: random allocation to treatment, comparison between propofol and any comparator in any clinical setting.

Results

One hundred thirty‐three studies randomizing 14,516 patients were included. No differences in mortality between patients receiving propofol [349/6957 (5.0%)] vs. any comparator [340/7559 (4.5%)] were observed in the overall population [risk ratio = 1.05, 95% confidence interval (0.93 to 1.18), P = 0.5] and in several sub‐analyses.

Conclusion

Inspite of theoretical concerns, propofol has no detrimental effect on survival according to the largest meta‐analysis of randomized trials ever performed on hypnotic drug.
Effect of unfractionated heparin on endothelial glycocalyx in a septic shock model
Authors: YINI S. , HENG Z. , XIN A. , XIAOCHUN M.
Published: October 2014

Background

The constituents of vascular endothelial glycocalyx, such as syndecan‐1 and heparan sulphate (HS), can be detected in the plasma of patients and animals with septic shock. However, the dynamics of glycocalyx degradation and its association with inflammation remains largely unknown. In this study, we investigated the association between the biomarkers of acute endothelial glycocalyx degradation and inflammatory factors. We also evaluated the effect of unfractionated heparin (UFH) on glycocalyx shedding in a canine septic shock model.

Methods

Twenty adult beagle dogs were randomly allocated to one of the following four groups (n = 5): (1) a sham group; (2) a shock group [3.5 × 108 colony‐forming unit (cfu) Escherichia coli (E. coli)/kg]; (3) a basic therapy group (sensitive antibiotics and 0.9% saline, 10 ml/kg/h); and (4) a heparin group (40 units/kg/h UFH plus basic therapy). After the onset of septic shock, systemic haemodynamic indices were measured. Endothelial glycocalyx degradation markers (i.e., syndecan‐1, HS) and inflammatory factors [i.e., interleukin 6 (IL‐6), tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α], platelet count and activated partial thromboplastin time were measured at various time points.

Results

A lethal dose of E. coli induced a progressive septic shock model. We observed increased syndecan‐1 and HS levels, which correlated with IL‐6 and TNF‐α in the septic shock model. The glycocalyx shedding was reduced by UFH, which might be regulated by the inhibition of inflammatory factors.

Conclusions

A therapeutic dose of UFH can protect glycocalyx from shedding by inhibiting inflammation. Additional studies with larger sample sizes are needed to confirm our conclusions.
Antipsychotic exposure prior to acute myocardial infarction in patients with serious mental illness
Authors: Wu S.‐I. , Kao K.‐L. , Chen S.‐C. , Juang J. J. M. , Lin C.‐J. , Fang C.‐K. , Wu C.‐S. , Dewey M. , Prince M. J. , Stewart R.
Published: October 2014

Objective

To investigate the association between acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and recent exposure to antipsychotic agents in people with serious mental illness (SMI), and modifying influences.

Method

A case‐crossover design was applied using the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) to compare the exposure frequency of antipsychotic agents within individuals of schizophrenia or bipolar disorder between 60‐day case and control periods prior to their first AMI episode during 1996–2007.

Results

A sample of 834 patients with incident AMI was analysed. AMI was significantly associated with more recent antipsychotic exposure in schizophrenia after adjustment (OR 1.87, 95% confidence interval 1.15–3.03) bipolar disorder (OR 1.06, 0.51–2.21). This association in schizophrenia was significantly stronger in men and in patients without previous diagnoses of cardiovascular risk factors.

Conclusion

These findings are consistent with a short‐term risk effect of antipsychotic exposure on risk of AMI and identify potentially vulnerable groups. Further research is required to clarify underlying biological mechanisms.
Smoking cessation‐related weight gain—beneficial effects on muscle mass, strength and bone health
Authors: Rom Oren , Reznick Abraham Z. , Keidar Zohar , Karkabi Khaled , Aizenbud Dror
Published: October 2014

Aims

To examine the effects of smoking cessation on body composition and muscle strength in comparison with continued smoking.

Design and Setting

Twelve‐month longitudinal study of adult smokers conducted in Haifa, Israel.

Participants

Eighty‐one smokers recruited from a smoking cessation programme combining group counselling and varenicline treatment.

Measurements

Measurements were taken at the beginning of the programme and after 12 months. Body composition was assessed by dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry. Muscle strength was measured by handgrip dynamometry and predicted one‐repetition maximum tests. Dietary intake and physical activity levels were estimated using questionnaires. Smoking status was determined by urine cotinine. The effect of smoking cessation was assessed using univariate and multivariable linear regression analyses.

Findings

Forty‐one participants (age 44 ± 12 years) completed all baseline and follow‐up measurements (76% continued smokers; 24% quitters). All measures of body composition and muscle strength were increased among quitters when compared with continued smokers. Adjusted differences [95% confidence interval (CI)] between quitters and smokers were: body weight 4.43 kg (1.56–7.31 kg); lean mass 1.26 kg (0.24–2.28 kg); fat mass 3.15 kg (0.91–5.39 kg); bone mineral content 48.76 g (12.06–85.54 g); bone mineral density 0.024 g/cm2 (0.004–0.043 g/cm2); handgrip strength 3.6 kg (1.12–6.08 kg); predicted one‐repetition maximum of chest press 7.85 kg (1.93–13.76 kg); and predicted one‐repetition maximum of leg press 17.02 kg (7.29–26.75 kg).

Conclusions

Smoking cessation is associated with weight gain mainly through accumulating extra fat, but is also associated with increased muscle mass, muscle strength and bone density.
The transformation of the Indian agricultural input industry: has it increased agricultural R&D?
Authors: Pray Carl E. , Nagarajan Latha
Published: October 2014

Indian agricultural input industries have gone through a major transformation in the last 40 years. State owned firms grew during the Green Revolution and then stagnated or declined. Indian corporations that were protected from foreign competition are now exporters of agricultural tractors and pesticides. Foreign multinational corporations are rapidly increasing their role in the seed, pesticide, and tractor industries. Entry by large Indian firms and multinationals has increased competition in the input industries. Private agribusiness R&D in India grew from $23 million in 1985 to $250 million in 2009 in 2005 US dollars. This is the same time period as a transformation in the agricultural input industry, rapid growth in demand for agricultural inputs, breakthroughs in information technology and biotechnology, and changes in intellectual property rights. An econometric model was used to test whether the transformation of agricultural input industry was a major factor in the growth of R&D expenditure or not. This article analyzes a unique, firm level sales and R&D data set from the seed, pesticide, tractor, and fertilizer industries in 2000–2009. The estimated model indicates that agribusiness firms' R&D expenditures from 2000 to 2009 were positively related to variables associated with industry transformation such as firm size, ownership by multinationals, and declining industry concentration. The model also indicates that strengthening patent policy as well as growth in the size of research‐intensive industries like the seed industry contributed to the growth of agribusiness R&D in India.
Responses of vegetation and soils to three grazing management regimes in a semi‐arid highland mixed crop‐livestock system
Authors: Habtemicael Mezgebe , Yayneshet Tesfay , Treydte Anna C.
Published: October 2014

Three grazing regimes [Cut‐and‐carry (CC), seasonal grazing (SG) and continuous grazing (CG)] currently applied in Tigrai region of northern Ethiopia were compared to identify the best grazing management in key native vegetation and soil attributes. More than 50% of the desirable species such as Andropogon, Cynodon and Phalaris spp were located in the CC and SG regimes. During the rainy season, the CC regime produced 1.7 and 2.7 more biomass than the SG and CG regimes, respectively. Herbaceous basal cover was 6.8 times more in the CC than in the CG regime. During the rainy season, herbaceous species diversity and richness were the least in the CG regime but similar in the CC and SG regimes. This similarity, however, changed during the dry season when the SG regime is grazed by livestock that led to a reduction in diversity. These results suggest that CC is superior to the traditional CG, but not always necessarily superior to the SG. The SG regime improved soil P status while the CG regime affected soil bulk density and total N negatively. The predominantly native vegetation grazing systems in Tigrai region can be improved cost effectively through cut‐and‐carry and seasonal grazing.
Review article: biliary and hepatic involvement in IgG4‐related disease
Authors: Joshi D. , Webster G. J. M.
Published: October 2014

Background

IgG4‐related disease (IgG4‐RD) is a multi‐systemic disorder. IgG4‐related sclerosing cholangitis (IgG4‐SC) is the biliary manifestation of the disease, often in association with autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP). Hepatic manifestations of IgG4‐RD are less well described within the literature.

Aim

To examine and present an overview of IgG4‐RD with a focus on the biliary and hepatic manifestations.

Methods

An electronic search using Medline was performed. Search items included ‘IgG4 multi‐system disease, IgG4 associated cholangitis, IgG4 associated liver disease and autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP)’.

Results

IgG4‐RD is characterised by an IgG4‐positive lymphoplasmacytic tissue infiltrate, storiform fibrosis and an obliterative phlebitis. The HISORt criteria may be used to establish the diagnosis and incorporate a multi‐disciplinary approach involving histology, radiology, serum IgG4 levels and response to steroid therapy. IgG4‐SC is the commonest extrapancreatic manifestation of type‐1 AIP, while the hepatic manifestations remain poorly defined. Important differential diagnoses include primary sclerosing cholangitis, secondary sclerosing cholangitis, cholangiocarcinoma and pancreatic carcinoma. Current treatment regimens remain ill defined although steroid therapy is used first line unless contraindicated. Patients with relapsing disease or multifocal disease should be considered for azathioprine. Available data would also suggest a role for rituximab.

Conclusions

IgG4‐related sclerosing cholangitis is a common manifestation of IgG4‐related disease which requires a multi‐disciplinary approach to establish the diagnosis. Differentiating IgG4‐related sclerosing cholangitis from other conditions, both benign and malignant, is challenging, but vital. Steroids remain the mainstay of treatment. Our understanding of the pathogenesis of the hepatic manifestations of IgG4‐related disease continues to evolve.
Computational Aspects of N-Mixture Models
Authors: Dennis Emily B. , Morgan Byron J.T. , Ridout Martin S.
Published: October 2014

The N-mixture model is widely used to estimate the abundance of a population in the presence of unknown detection probability from only a set of counts subject to spatial and temporal replication (Royle, 2004, Biometrics  60, 105–115). We explain and exploit the equivalence of N-mixture and multivariate Poisson and negative-binomial models, which provides powerful new approaches for fitting these models. We show that particularly when detection probability and the number of sampling occasions are small, infinite estimates of abundance can arise. We propose a sample covariance as a diagnostic for this event, and demonstrate its good performance in the Poisson case. Infinite estimates may be missed in practice, due to numerical optimization procedures terminating at arbitrarily large values. It is shown that the use of a bound, K, for an infinite summation in the N-mixture likelihood can result in underestimation of abundance, so that default values of K in computer packages should be avoided. Instead we propose a simple automatic way to choose K. The methods are illustrated by analysis of data on Hermann's tortoise Testudo hermanni.
Persistent MRD before and after allogeneic BMT predicts relapse in children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
Authors: Sutton Rosemary , Shaw Peter J. , Venn Nicola C. , Law Tamara , Dissanayake Anuruddhika , Kilo Tatjana , Haber Michelle , Norris Murray D. , Fraser Chris , Alvaro Frank , Revesz Tamas , Trahair Toby N. , Dalla‐Pozza Luciano , Marshall Glenn M. , O'Brien Tracey A.
Published: October 2014

Minimal residual disease (MRD) during early chemotherapy is a powerful predictor of relapse in acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) and is used in children to determine eligibility for allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in first (CR1) or later complete remission (CR2/CR3). Variables affecting HSCT outcome were analysed in 81 children from the ANZCHOG ALL8 trial. The major cause of treatment failure was relapse, with a cumulative incidence of relapse at 5 years (CIR) of 32% and treatment‐related mortality of 8%. Leukaemia‐free survival (LFS) and overall survival (OS) were similar for HSCT in CR1 (LFS 62%, OS 83%, n = 41) or CR2/CR3 (LFS 60%, OS 72%, n = 40). Patients achieving bone marrow MRD negativity pre‐HSCT had better outcomes (LFS 83%, OS 92%) than those with persistent MRD pre‐HSCT (LFS 41%, OS 64%, P < 0·0001) or post‐HSCT (LFS 35%, OS 55%, P < 0·0001). Patients with B‐other ALL had more relapses (CIR 50%, LFS 41%) than T‐ALL and the main precursor‐B subtypes including BCR‐ABL1, KMT2A (MLL), ETV6‐RUNX1 (TEL‐AML1) and hyperdiploidy >50. A Cox multivariate regression model for LFS retained both B‐other ALL subtype (hazard ratio 4·1, P = 0·0062) and MRD persistence post‐HSCT (hazard ratio 3·9, P = 0·0070) as independent adverse prognostic variables. Persistent MRD could be used to direct post‐HSCT therapy.
MIR144 and MIR451 regulate human erythropoiesis via RAB14
Authors: Kim MinJung , Tan Yee Sun , Cheng Wen‐Chih , Kingsbury Tami J. , Heimfeld Shelly , Civin Curt I.
Published: October 2014

Expression levels of MIR144 and MIR451 increase during erythropoiesis, a pattern that is conserved from zebrafish to humans. As these two miRs are expressed from the same polycistronic transcript, we manipulated MIR144 and MIR451 in human erythroid cells individually and together to investigate their effects on human erythropoiesis. Inhibition of endogenous human MIR451 resulted in decreased numbers of erythroid (CD71hiCD235ahiCD34−) cells, consistent with prior studies in zebrafish and mice. In addition, inhibition of MIR144 impaired human erythroid differentiation, unlike in zebrafish and mouse studies where the functional effect of MIR144 on erythropoiesis was minimal. In this study, we found RAB14 is a direct target of both MIR144 and MIR451. As MIR144 and MIR451 expression increased during human erythropoiesis, RAB14 protein expression decreased. Enforced RAB14 expression phenocopied the effect of MIR144 and/or MIR451 depletion, whereas shRNA‐mediated RAB14 knockdown protected cells from MIR144 and/or MIR451 depletion‐mediated erythropoietic inhibition. RAB14 knockdown increased the frequency and number of erythroid cells, increased β‐haemoglobin expression, and decreased CBFA2T3 expression during human erythropoiesis. In summary, we utilized MIR144 and MIR451 to identify RAB14 as a novel physiological inhibitor of human erythropoiesis.
Haematopoietic stem cell transplantation for relapsed or refractory anaplastic large cell lymphoma: a study of children and adolescents in Japan
Authors: Fukano Reiji , Mori Tetsuya , Kobayashi Ryoji , Mitsui Tetsuo , Fujita Naoto , Iwasaki Fuminori , Suzumiya Junji , Chin Motoaki , Goto Hiroaki , Takahashi Yoshiyuki , Hara Junichi , Park Yong‐Dong , Inoue Masami , Koga Yuhki , Inagaki Jiro , Sakamaki Hisashi , Adachi Souichi , Kawa Keisei , Kato Koji , Suzuki Ritsuro
Published: October 2014

To evaluate haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in children and adolescents, we reviewed the records of 47 patients who were ≤18 years, had relapsed or refractory anaplastic large cell lymphoma, and received HSCT between 1990 and 2010. At HSCT, complete remission (CR) was less common in allogeneic HSCT recipients (n = 24) than in autologous HSCT recipients (n = 23) (P = 0·01). The autologous and allogeneic HSCT groups differed in terms of 5‐year event‐free survival (EFS) (38% vs. 50%, P = 0·63), cumulative incidence of progress or relapse (49% vs. 28%, P = 0·25), and treatment‐related mortality (12% vs. 25%, P = 0·40). However, these differences were not significant. Patients with non‐CR at autologous HSCT had a significantly lower EFS rate (14% vs. 48%, P = 0·03). Conversely, although those with non‐CR at allogeneic HSCT had a lower EFS rate, this was not significant (44% vs. 63%, P = 0·26). Reduced‐intensity conditioning regimens were used for three of the 16 allogeneic HSCTs received by patients with non‐CR. These three patients achieved CR, surviving 32–65 months after HSCT. These results demonstrated that allogeneic HSCT might be a treatment option for patients who do not achieve CR through conventional chemotherapy.
Clinical characteristics and outcomes in patients with acute promyelocytic leukaemia and hyperleucocytosis
Authors: Daver Naval , Kantarjian Hagop , Marcucci Guido , Pierce Sherry , Brandt Mark , Dinardo Courtney , Pemmaraju Naveen , Garcia‐Manero Guillermo , O'Brien Susan , Ferrajoli Alessandra , Verstovsek Srdan , Popat Uday , Hosing Chitra , Anderlini Paolo , Borthakur Gautam , Kadia Tapan , Cortes Jorge , Ravandi Farhad
Published: October 2014

The clinical characteristics, treatment options and outcomes in patients with acute promyelocytic leukaemia (APL) and hyperleucocytosis remain poorly defined. This study reviewed 242 consecutive patients with APL; 29 patients (12%) had a white blood cell count (WBC) ≥ 50 × 109/l at presentation (median WBC 85·5 × 109/l). Patients with hyperleucocytosis had inferior complete remission (CR) rates (69% vs. 88%; P = 0·004) and higher 4‐week mortality (24% vs. 9%; P = 0·018) compared to patients without hyperleucocytosis. We noted a trend towards inferior 3‐year disease‐free survival (DFS) (69% vs. 80%; P = 0·057) and inferior 3‐year overall survival (OS) (74% vs. 92%; P = 0·2) for patients with hyperleucocytosis. Leukapheresis was performed in 11 (38%) of the 29 patients with hyperleucocytosis. CR rate and 3‐year OS were not significantly improved in patients who received leukapheresis. CR rate and 3‐year OS for the 15 patients with hyperleucocytosis treated with all‐trans retinoic acid (ATRA) plus arsenic trioxide (ATO) plus cytotoxic therapy (idarubicin or gemtuzumab ozogamicin) combinations were 100% and 100% vs. 57% and 35% for the 14 patients treated with non‐ATRA/ATO combinations (P = 0·004 and P = 0·002). Leukapheresis does not improve the outcomes in patients with APL presenting with hyperleucocytosis. ATRA/ATO‐based combinations are superior to other regimens in these patients.
Defective natural killer cell anti-viral capacity in paediatric HBV infection
Authors: Heiberg I L , Pallett L J , Winther T N , Høgh B , Maini M K , Peppa D
Published: October 2014

Natural killer (NK) cells exhibit dysregulated effector function in adult chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection (CHB), which may contribute to virus persistence. The role of NK cells in children infected perinatally with HBV is less studied. Access to a unique cohort enabled the cross-sectional evaluation of NK cell frequency, phenotype and function in HBV-infected children relative to uninfected children. We observed a selective defect in NK cell interferon (IFN)-γ production, with conserved cytolytic function, mirroring the functional dichotomy observed in adult infection. Reduced expression of NKp30 on NK cells suggests a role of impaired NK-dendritic cell (DC) cellular interactions as a potential mechanism leading to reduced IFN-γ production. The finding that NK cells are already defective in paediatric CHB, albeit less extensively than in adult CHB, has potential implications for the timing of anti-viral therapy aiming to restore immune control.
Use of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs and risk of chronic kidney disease in people with Type 2 diabetes mellitus, a nationwide longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Tsai H.‐J. , Hsu Y.‐H. , Huang Y.‐W. , Chang Y.‐K. , Liu J.‐S. , Hsu C.‐C.
Published: October 2014

Aims

To investigate the temporal relationship between non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug use and the development of chronic kidney disease in people with Type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study and followed up a population with Type 2 diabetes who were chronic kidney disease‐free (n = 48 715) using national health insurance claims data in Taiwan. Exposure status to non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs in 2007 was measured. A total of 6406 subjects with incident chronic kidney disease were identified from the period 2008 to 2011. Multivariable proportional hazards models were applied to determine the temporal relationship between non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug use and the development of chronic kidney disease.

Results

We observed a significant temporal relationship between non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug use and the development of chronic kidney disease in people with Type 2 diabetes. Compared with people not taking any non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug in 2007, those who were taking such drugs for at least 90 days in 2007 had a higher risk of chronic kidney disease development (adjusted hazard ratio 1.37, 95% CI 1.26–1.49). In subgroup analyses, those people (irrespective of age, sex, various comorbidities and use of anti‐hypertensive drugs, aspirin or acetaminophen) who were taking non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs for at least 90 days were more likely to develop chronic kidney disease than people who were not taking any non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug.

Conclusions

The results suggest that there is a positive temporal relationship between non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug use and increased risk of chronic kidney disease in people with Type 2 diabetes. The use of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs should be based on clinical evaluations of benefits and risks, and should be prescribed with caution for people with Type 2 diabetes.
SEATBELT USE AMONG DRUNK DRIVERS IN DIFFERENT LEGISLATIVE SETTINGS
Authors: Adams Scott , Cotti Chad , Tefft Nathan
Published: October 2014

We present evidence from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System and Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System that shows increased seatbelt use following the concurrent presence of stricter blood alcohol content thresholds and primarily enforced seatbelt laws. This suggests that inebriated drivers may use their seat belts more judiciously to avoid being identified as a drunk driver by law enforcement. The interactive effect of stricter drunk driving laws and primary seatbelt laws are also shown to be more effective than either law passed in isolation in terms of reducing traffic fatalities. (JEL K4, I18)
Anti‐biofilm and antibacterial activities of zinc oxide nanoparticles against the oral opportunistic pathogens Rothia dentocariosa and Rothia mucilaginosa
Authors: Khan Shams T. , Ahamed Maqusood , Musarrat Javed , Al‐Khedhairy Abdulaziz A.
Published: October 2014

Species of the genus Rothia that inhabit the oral cavity have recently been implicated in a number of diseases. To minimize their role in oral infections, it is imperative to reduce and/or control the growth and biofilm formation activity of Rothia spp. In this study, two bacterial isolates, Ora‐7 and Ora‐16, were obtained from the oral cavity of a healthy male subject and identified as Rothia dentocariosa and Rothia mucilaginosa, respectively, using a polyphasic taxonomic approach. Antimicrobial and anti‐biofilm formation activities of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO‐NPs), of average size 35 nm, were assessed in in vitro assays using Crystal Violet and live and dead staining techniques. The ZnO‐NPs exhibited an IC50 value of 53 and 76 μg ml−1 against R. dentocariosa and R. mucilaginosa, respectively. Biofilm‐formation assays, performed on the surfaces of polystyrene plates, artificial teeth, and dental prostheses, revealed the efficacy of ZnO‐NPs as a potential antibacterial agent for controlling the growth of Rothia isolates in both planktonic form and biofilm.
Cell size and cancer: a new solution to Peto's paradox?
Authors: Maciak Sebastian , Michalak Pawel
Published: October 2014

Cancer, one of the leading health concerns for humans, is by no means a human‐unique malady. Accumulating evidence shows that cancer kills domestic and wild animals at a similar rate to humans and can even pose a conservation threat to certain species. Assuming that each physiologically active and proliferating cell is at risk of malignant transformation, any evolutionary increase in the number of cells (and thus body mass) will lead to a higher cancer frequency, all else being equal. However, available data fail to support the prediction that bigger animals are affected by cancer more than smaller ones. The unexpected lack of correlation between body size (and life span) and cancer risk across taxa was dubbed Peto's paradox. In this perspective, several plausible explanations of Peto's paradox are presented, with the emphasis on a largely underappreciated relation of cell size to both metabolism and cell division rates across species, which we believe are key factors underlying the paradox. We conclude that larger organisms have bigger and slowly dividing cells with lower energy turnover, all significantly reducing the risk of cancer initiation. Solving Peto's paradox will enhance our understanding the evolution of cancer and may provide new implications for cancer prevention and treatment.
Physiological significance of recombination‐activating gene 1 in neuronal death, especially optic neuropathy
Authors: Hirano Takao , Murata Toshinori , Hayashi Takuma
Published: October 2014

Although the transcription factor nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) is known to regulate cell death and survival, its precise role in cell death within the central nervous system remains unknown. We previously reported that mice with a homozygous deficiency for NF‐κBp50 spontaneously develop optic neuropathy. The aim of the present study was to demonstrate the expression and activation of the proapoptotic factor(s) that mediate optic neuropathy in p50‐deficient mice. Recombination‐activating gene (Rag) 1 is known to activate the recombination of immunoglobulin V(D)J. In this study, experiments with genetically engineered mice revealed the involvement of Rag1 expression in apoptosis of Brn3a‐positive retinal ganglion cells, and also demonstrated the specific effect of p50 deficiency on the activation of Rag1 gene transcription. Furthermore, genetic analysis of murine neuronal stem‐like cells clarified the biological significance of Rag1 in N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate‐induced neuronal apoptosis. We also detected the apoptosis‐regulating factors Bax and cleaved caspase 3, 8 and 9 in HEK293 cells transfected‐molecule of Rag1, and a human histological examination revealed the expression of Rag1 in retinal ganglion cells. The results of the present study indicate that Rag1 plays a role in optic neuropathy as a proapoptotic candidate in p50‐deficient mice. This finding may lead to new therapeutic targets in optic neuropathy.
Hydraulic Fracturing: A Critical Physical Geography Review
Authors: Lave Rebecca , Lutz Brian
Published: October 2014

Taking a critical physical geography approach, this article provides the first side‐by‐side review of the physical and social literature on hydraulic fracturing or “fracking” as it is frequently referred to. We note the striking disparities between the physical science literature's description of the relatively manageable impacts of fracking and the almost apocalyptic tone taken in some popular press and critical social science literature. We argue that these disparities may be a result of the dramatic shift in the geography of energy production in the US. The rise of fracking has redistributed environmental injustices beyond traditional national sacrifice zones, such as Appalachia, and towards regions that in many cases are wealthier than Appalachia and have not recently borne the brunt of energy production, causing profound social, cultural, and economic shocks. Reviewing the physical and social science literature together suggests that we reconsider the fracking research agenda. Studies of the physical impacts of hydraulic fracturing should be expanded to address communities' concerns about habitat fragmentation and the impacts of the myriad truck trips required to service fracking wells, neither of which currently are given much attention. Social science research on fracking could benefit from an increase in comparative work, assessing the relative economic and social impacts in regions where energy production is ramping up in relation to regions where it is declining.
Screening for tinea unguium by thermography in older adults with subungual hyperkeratosis
Authors: Miura Yuka , Takehara Kimie , Nakagami Gojiro , Amemiya Ayumi , Kanazawa Toshiki , Kimura Nao , Kishi Chihiro , Koyano Yuiko , Tamai Nao , Nakamura Tetsuro , Kawashima Makoto , Tsunemi Yuichiro , Sanada Hiromi
Published: October 2014

Aim

The purpose of the present study was to assess the difference in foot temperature between tinea unguium‐positive older adults with subungual hyperkeratosis and tinea unguium‐negative older adults with subungual hyperkeratosis to develop a temperature‐based screening method for tinea unguium.

Methods

The present cross‐sectional, observational study investigated 51 residents with subungual hyperkeratosis in two facilities covered by long‐term care insurance between October 2011 and December 2011. One dermatologist recorded the clinical signs of abnormal toenails. Nail specimens were collected from all abnormal nails, and the presence of tinea unguium was confirmed when fungus was detected by direct microscopy. Foot temperature was measured by infrared thermography. A receiver operating characteristic curve was used to assess the ability to determine whether residents with subungual hyperkeratosis have tinea unguium and to determine the cut‐off point.

Results

Among the people with subungual hyperkeratosis, the mean toe temperature in the tinea unguium‐positive group (30.2 ± 2.6°C) was significantly lower than that in the tinea unguium‐negative group (32.8 ± 3.2°C, P = 0.001). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.74 (95% confidence interval 0.621–0.876), and the threshold temperature was set at 33.0°C, resulting in a sensitivity of 81.8% and specificity of 65.7%.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that foot temperature can be used to screen for tinea unguium in people with subungual hyperkeratosis. This non‐invasive and simple screening method would help clinicians to set priorities in terms of carrying out direct microscopy to diagnose tinea unguium in elderly residents in care facilities. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2015; 15: 991–996.
Association between objectively measured sleep quality and physical function among community‐dwelling oldest old Japanese: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Kim Miji , Yoshida Hideyo , Sasai Hiroyuki , Kojima Narumi , Kim Hunkyung
Published: October 2014

Aim

The present study examined the association between objective measures of sleep quality and performance‐based measures of physical function in community‐dwelling oldest old Japanese.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 207 community‐dwelling adults aged 80 years or older (92 men, 115 women; age 83.5 ± 2.6 years [range 80–95 years]). Participants wore an accelerometer (ActiGraph GT3X+) on their non‐dominant wrist for 24 h per day over seven consecutive nights. Sleep parameters included total sleep time, sleep efficiency and wake after sleep onset during the night for a week. Performance‐based physical function measures were handgrip strength, knee extension strength, and usual and maximum walking speeds. Multivariable linear regression was carried out to determine the associations between weekly sleep parameter averages and physical function measures.

Results

Approximately 24% of participants had a total sleep time of less than 6 h a night, and 13% had greater than 8 h a night. Overall, average daily physical activity was 1771.8 ± 520.6 (counts/min/day). In multiple linear regression, sleep efficiency and wake after sleep onset were significantly associated with maximum walking speed (β = 0.277; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.103 to 0.351 and β = −0.214; 95% CI −0.339 to −0.082, respectively) and usual walking speed (β = 0.200, 95% CI 0.035 to 0.305 and β = −0.174; 95% CI −0.341 to −0.064, respectively), after adjusting for potential confounding factors including daily physical activity. Both sleep qualities were also independently associated with knee extension strength. However, wake after sleep onset was not associated with handgrip strength.

Conclusion

Objectively measured sleep quality was associated with physical function in the oldest old. Further research is required to identify the temporality of associations between sleep and physical function. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2015; 15: 1040–1048.
The great imitator revisited: the spectrum of atypical cutaneous manifestations of secondary syphilis
Authors: Balagula Yevgeniy , Mattei Peter L. , Wisco Oliver J. , Erdag Gulsun , Chien Anna L.
Published: October 2014

Syphilis is a well‐known sexually transmitted infection infamous for its protean cutaneous manifestations. Over the last decade, the rate of infection in the USA has risen, particularly among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐infected individuals and certain ethnic groups. Although the primary chancre developing at the site of inoculation usually has typical and well‐characterized features, cutaneous manifestations of secondary syphilis span a wide spectrum and mimic those of other dermatoses. This may be particularly evident in patients with HIV. Such deviations from the expected typical papulosquamous eruption may present a diagnostic challenge and delay diagnosis and therapy. Given the increasing incidence of syphilis among the immunosuppressed patient population, recognition of atypical cutaneous manifestations is critical for adequate management. We review a range of cutaneous manifestations of secondary syphilis and the skin diseases it may mimic.
The New CEO and the Post‐succession Process: An Integration of Past Research and Future Directions
Authors: Ma Shenghui , Seidl David , Guérard Stéphane
Published: October 2014

The early tenure of a new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), also referred to as ‘the CEO post‐succession process’, is a critical phase in the history of an organization, because it is associated with a high rate of organizational failure and CEO dismissal. Research on this important process has grown rapidly over the last decade, focusing particularly on the question of how the match between the CEO, the organization and the environment is created in the post‐succession process. Yet, the respective literature is highly fragmented, which suggests that there is a need for a systematic review and evaluation of existing works. Adopting the conceptual vocabulary of the practice perspective, the authors review this literature in terms of what it reveals about (1) the practices adopted by new CEOs and other actors involved in the post‐succession process, (2) the properties of the key practitioners involved, and (3) the practical context of the post‐succession process. This review suggests that new CEOs are primarily involved in practices aimed at integrating the new CEO into the organization, and practices aimed at realigning the organization with its environment. The important insights that the existing literature affords are identified, and the gaps in this body of research are highlighted. On this basis, a concrete research agenda is developed in terms of topics, methodologies and theories.