bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The analysis of the effect of Islamic financing and labor relationship development toward nonperforming financing in Islamic banks
Authors: Bahrul Ilmi Muhammad
Published: May 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of Islamic financing (IF) and labor relationship development (LRD) toward nonperforming financing (NPF) in Islamic banks. This research aims to identify the connection between IF products and the practice of loan officers building a relationship with loan customers (also known as LRD) and its influence on NPF.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a quantitative field research that emphasizes upon analysis of numerical data which are processed with statistical methods. Furthermore, the source is secondary data from financial statements of Islamic banks such as annual reports or financial disclosures. These sources of data are used to examine NPF facilities from 2008 to 2012. Moreover, primary data collected via questionnaire are used to investigate IF and LRD. The banks where the study was conducted are: Bank Muamalat Indonesia and Bank Danamon Shari’ah in Surakarta, Indonesia. The population in this study is 15 employees who work as account officers in Bank Muamalat Indonesia and Bank Danamon Shari’ah. The techniques of data collection in this study are documentation, questionnaires and literary study. In this study, the data analysis technique was multiple regression analysis and examination using SPSS version 21. These methods were used for analyzing the effect of IF and LRD toward NPF.

Findings

IF has a significant effect on NPF. In contrast, the LRD has no effect on NPF in Islamic banks. In addition, both IF and LRD simultaneously had an effect on NPF in Islamic banks.

Research limitations/implications

This study does not cover all Islamic banks in Surakarta because of limited data; thus, in future research, the sample size could be increased by including all Islamic banks in Surakarta, Indonesia. Furthermore, this study does not take into consideration the fact that IF includes product financing. For future studies, the population and samples should be improved and take into consideration that product financing does exist in Islamic banks; moreover, future studies could provide other variables which are appropriate for current studies.

Originality/value

The results support the recommendation for Islamic banks in Surakarta to enhance the capability of employees to develop their knowledge in IF. Because the performance of a bank does not only depict financial performance but also nonfinancial performance such as services, knowledge and employees’ performance.
Policy implications for the improvement of technology transfer and commercialization process in the Indian context
Authors: Sheth Bhavisha P. , Acharya Satya Ranjan , Sareen S.B.
Published: May 2018

Purpose

Scientific innovation has resulted in the development of newer technologies for the betterment of humankind. Academic and research organizations are the places where these technologies are actually ideated and/or invented. However, the process of technology transfer and its eventual successful commercialization covers many other facets, in addition to the scientific research alone. This study aims to draw attention towards certain policy gaps and thereby suggest plausible solutions for the improvement of technology transfer process in the Indian context.

Design/methodology/approach

Here, the authors present an extensive Web survey of technologies available for transfer/commercialization in 12 major Indian research organizations, namely, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Indian Council of Medical Research, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, Defence Research and Development Organisation, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Space Research Organisation, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay, Indian Institute of Science Bangalore, IIT Delhi, IIT Kharagpur and IIT Kanpur.

Findings

A total of 2,921 technologies were found to be available with respect to the above-mentioned organizations, with the highest of these in agricultural sciences and the maximum reported by ICAR.

Research limitations/implications

Certain significant policy interventions of this study include the need of a central framework for deposition, management and dissemination of institutionally developed technologies. More attention and support is required for the technologically less developed research areas, and there is a need for the promotion of funding mechanisms for the prototype development, in addition to the already available funding schemes for other stages of technology commercialization.

Practical implications

Hence, the successful commercialization of the innovation from the Indian research labs requires the restructuring of the existing policies to eventually facilitate the economic growth of the nation.

Originality/value

This study discusses the major policy gaps of the Indian technology transfer process. For this, an extensive Web survey was carried out to enlist the various technologies available for transfer and commercialization in India from 12 major research organizations. The study presents the results and some major policy implications of the technology transfer and commercialization process in the Indian context.
Examining systematic technological learning of Syrian textile industry
Authors: Ghazinoory Sepehr , Ali Ali Ammar , Hassanzadeh AliReza , Majidpour Mehdi
Published: May 2018

Purpose

Because of importance of technological learning for less developed countries, the notion has received increasing attention of scholars. The purpose of this paper is to investigate technological learning systematically by assessing the effect of technology transfer actors on technological learning in less developed countries context.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents assessment model by adopting technological learning concept based on technology absorption and incremental innovation at firm level and identifying key roles of technology transfer actors (State – Scientific and technological infrastructure – Industry) that affect technological learning. The paper follows survey as research methodology. Thus, a questionnaire was addressed to 33 Syrian textile factories to examine the assessment model. Simple linear, multiple linear and ordinal regression analyses are preformed to examine relationships of model components.

Findings

The regression models show notable ability of technology transfer actors to explain technological behavior of firms to accumulate operative capability and consequently to generate passive incremental innovation. The findings indicate passive technical change system of Syrian textile industry. Therefore, goal-oriented evaluation of actual technology policy is preliminary step for achieving improvements, as well as activating scientific and technological infrastructure role by enabling strong relationships with industry and supporting interactions of domestic firms of textile industry and with foreign players.

Originality/value

The paper enriches technological learning literature by proposing systematic approach that sets the nature of technical change process of less developed countries in core of analysis. Moreover, it provides a guide for technological learning practices at firm level and for policymakers based on assessing actual status of Syrian textile industry.
Investing in strategic development
Authors: Aaltola Pasi
Published: May 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to explore management control in the strategic development of business model and managerial innovations. The issue is approached from the perspective of managerial work, aiming to outline what managers consider as essential elements of management control in these often iterative and learning-intensive developmental activities.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on the views of 20 managers engaged in strategic development and its control in various organisations. The interview data consist of the respondents’ experiences and project cases involving non-technological innovations. Qualitative content analysis is used to identify three key concepts of management control of business model and managerial innovations.

Findings

The findings suggest that with managerial and business model innovation, appropriate management control could be established by aligning the innovation being developed with the strategic story of the organisation, leveraging co-creational projects and experimentation with close customer contact.

Research limitations/implications

The focus of this qualitative research is on building an initial framework. Future research could expand understanding of managerial work and accounting by examining this study’s outcomes in more practical detail in various contexts.

Practical implications

The findings of this study lead managers and researchers to consider management control of non-technological innovations as an enabling system supporting successful innovations.

Originality/value

This study adds a unique perspective to the literature by conceptualising and offering managerial implications for management control in the context of strategic development of non-technological innovations.
Regulatory intensity in English and German professional football
Authors: Bachmaier Birgit , Lammert Joachim , Plumley Daniel , Wilson Robert , Hovemann Gregor
Published: May 2018

Purpose

In order to secure a proper execution of sporting competitions, national governing bodies of professional football leagues apply specific regulatory procedures. In this context, special focus is placed on requirements that are supposed to ensure financial stability of clubs. They, in turn, help avoid negative economic externalities, i.e. the problem that financial difficulties from one club can affect other clubs and stakeholders due to the interdependent relationships of the competition. These regulations on a national level in European professional football leagues show several significant differences. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to comprehensively analyze financial regulatory procedures of professional football leagues to generate possible improvements of the regulations in detail.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a document analysis of the regulation books of the English Premier League and German Bundesliga (BL), this study compares the regulatory procedures of those important European professional football leagues. Further evaluation was performed through a qualitative content analysis to develop a category system including six categories with 72 criteria from deductive and inductive procedures. For more advanced coding, an assessment scale was integrated.

Findings

Compared to the Premier League, the regulation of the BL points to a more intensive regulation in all categories and across all analyzed indices. The results of both leagues partially reveal that assessment and monitoring requirements tend to be ineffective, which can substantially endanger the achievement of the whole monitoring process’ aims. The intention to ensure the financial stability for securing the league competition can be missed in such a situation and negative economic externalities cannot be prevented effectively.

Originality/value

For the first time, this study includes all relevant requirements of financial club assessment and monitoring. Thereby, an abstract comprehensive and systematic structure for professional team sports leagues is described and allows for a concrete international comparison of two European professional football leagues. At the end, several approaches to improve the regulatory framework are provided.
Mobile technologies and applications towards smart tourism – state of the art
Authors: Dorcic Jelena , Komsic Jelena , Markovic Suzana
Published: May 2018

Purpose

The popularity of mobile technologies and applications is constantly growing and undoubtedly changing consumers’ and providers’ behavior. The purpose of this study is to provide a comprehensive systematic literature review of academic research related to mobile technologies and applications in smart tourism published between 2012 and June 2017.

Design/methodology/approach

Published peer-reviewed articles were gathered from the three largest and most popular online databases and search engines – EBSCO host, Science Direct and Google Scholar and ENTER conference proceedings. Based on a keyword-driven search and content analysis, 126 articles were determined to be relevant to this study.

Findings

Selected publications were analyzed in accordance with the proposed research questions and thematically classified into three main categories: consumer perspective, technological perspective and provider perspective. The findings contribute to a better overall understanding of recent research into mobile technologies and applications in smart tourism by presenting the main results, methods, trends and other insights of relevant publications.

Research limitations/implications

Although the researchers used two databases, one search engine and ENTER conference proceedings to collect articles, there is the possibility that some studies connected to the topic were not included. The study did not include books, other conference proceedings, literature reviews, theses, business reports and other possibly relevant publications.

Originality/value

This study provides a systematic review of the most recent published academic research (2012-June 2017; also including “Online First” articles) on mobile technologies and applications in smart tourism. The results of this study provide an agenda for future research in tourism and hospitality industry by identifying major trends and developments in smart tourism.
Coastal wetland adaptation to sea level rise: Quantifying potential for landward migration and coastal squeeze
Authors: Borchert Sinéad M. , Osland Michael J. , Enwright Nicholas M. , Griffith Kereen T.
Published: May 2018

Coastal wetland ecosystems are expected to migrate landwards in response to rising seas. However, due to differences in topography and coastal urbanization, estuaries vary in their ability to accommodate migration. Low‐lying urban areas can constrain migration and lead to wetland loss (i.e. coastal squeeze), especially where existing wetlands cannot keep pace with rising seas via vertical adjustments. In many estuaries, there is a pressing need to identify landward migration corridors and better quantify the potential for landward migration and coastal squeeze.

We quantified and compared the area available for landward migration of tidal saline wetlands and the area where urban development is expected to prevent migration for 39 estuaries along the wetland‐rich USA Gulf of Mexico coast. We did so under three sea level rise scenarios (0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 m by 2100).

Within the region, the potential for wetland migration is highest within certain estuaries in Louisiana and southern Florida (e.g. Atchafalaya/Vermilion Bays, Mermentau River, Barataria Bay, and the North and South Ten Thousand Islands estuaries).

The potential for coastal squeeze is highest in estuaries containing major metropolitan areas that extend into low‐lying lands. The Charlotte Harbor, Tampa Bay, and Crystal‐Pithlachascotee estuaries (Florida) have the highest amounts of urban land expected to constrain wetland migration. Urban barriers to migration are also high in the Galveston Bay (Texas) and Atchafalaya/Vermilion Bays (Louisiana) estuaries.

Synthesis and applications. Coastal wetlands provide many ecosystem services that benefit human health and well‐being, including shoreline protection and fish and wildlife habitat. As the rate of sea level rise accelerates in response to climate change, coastal wetland resources could be lost in areas that lack space for landward migration. Migration corridors are particularly important in highly urbanized estuaries where, due to low‐lying coastal development, there is not space for wetlands to move and adapt to sea level rise. Future‐focused landscape conservation plans that incorporate the protection of wetland migration corridors can increase the adaptive capacity of these valuable ecosystems and simultaneously decrease the vulnerability of coastal human communities to the harmful effects of rising seas.
Chronic liver injury induced by drugs and toxins
Authors: Ortega‐Alonso Aida , Andrade Raúl J
Published: May 2018

Drug‐induced liver injury (DILI) occurs in a small fraction of individuals exposed to drugs, herbs or dietary supplements and is a relatively rare diagnosis compared with other liver disorders. DILI can be serious, resulting in hospitalization and even life‐threatening liver failure, death or need for liver transplantation. Toxic liver damage usually presents as an acute hepatitis viral‐like syndrome or as an acute cholestasis that resolves upon drug discontinuation. However, un‐resolving chronic outcome after acute DILI can ensue in some subjects, the mechanisms and risk factors for this particular evolution being yet scarcely known. Furthermore, the definition of chronicity after acute DILI is controversial, regarding both the time frame of liver injury persistence and the magnitude of the abnormalities required. Besides this, in some instances the phenotypes and pathological manifestations are those of chronic liver disease at the time of DILI diagnosis. These include non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease, vascular lesions, drug‐induced autoimmune hepatitis, chronic cholestasis leading to vanishing bile duct syndrome and even cirrhosis, and some drugs such as amiodarone or methotrexate have been frequently implicated in some of these forms of chronic DILI. In addition, all of these DILI phenotypes can be indistinguishable from those related to other etiologies, making the diagnosis particularly challenging. In this manuscript we have critically reviewed the more recent data on chronicity in DILI with a particular focus on the epidemiology, mechanisms and risk factors of atypical chronic DILI phenotypes.
Laparoscopic excision of a retroperitoneal schwannoma: A case report
Authors: Ohsawa Manato , Miguchi Masashi , Yoshimitsu Masanori , Oishi Koichi , Kohashi Toshihiko , Hihara Jun , Mukaida Hidenori , Kaneko Mayumi , Egi Hiroyuki , Ohdan Hideki , Hirabayashi Naoki
Published: May 2018

Schwannomas are tumors originating from the Schwann cells of the peripheral nerve sheath. Only 1%–3% of schwannomas reportedly occur in the pelvis. In a 67‐year‐old man, a pelvic mass that was 52 mm in diameter was incidentally diagnosed during a preoperative CT evaluation for prostate cancer. Preoperative 3‐D reconstruction CT showed that the feeding artery to the tumor originated from the internal iliac artery and the drainage vein from the internal iliac vein. Each vessel could be isolated, clipped, and cut with minimal bleeding. The tumor was easily dissected from adjacent structures and was completely resected via laparoscopic surgery. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry of the excised specimen revealed a benign schwannoma. Using 3‐D reconstruction to recognize a tumor's positional relation with the supplying vessels is important for avoiding complications during laparoscopic resection in the narrow pelvis. Laparoscopic resection is safe, feasible, and effective for retroperitoneal schwannoma.
Short‐term ingestion of deoxynivalenol in naturally contaminated feed alters piglet performance and gut hormone secretion
Authors: Li Ruonan , Li Yansen , Su Yongteng , Shen Dan , Dai Pengyuan , Li Chunmei
Published: May 2018

The mycotoxin deoxynivalenol (DON) generally exists in cereals and affects human and animal health. The aim of this study is to analyze the impacts of DON in naturally contaminated feed on piglet growth performance and intestinal hormone secretion in the short term. We randomly divided 5‐week‐old piglets into four groups: Control, DON 1,000, DON 2,000 and DON 3,000 groups. Piglets received a feed naturally contaminated with DON (approximately 400, 1,000, 2,000 or 3,000 μg/kg) for 21 days. Body weight showed no significant difference following exposure to DON. The balance of anti‐oxidation and oxidation was disrupted by DON after 21 days. The concentration of tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) and cyclooxgenase‐2 (COX‐2) significantly increased (p < .001) in all DON‐treated groups. Gut anorexigenic hormone secretion of peptide YY (PYY) and cholecystokinin (CCK) had a time‐ and dose‐dependent relationship with DON exposure; however, there was no effect on orexigenic hormone ghrelin secretion. Changes of histomorphology in the jejunum were observed in DON‐treated groups, including villi flattening and fusion, and apical necrosis of villi. These results indicated that DON could suppress piglet growth performance and alter gut hormone secretion in the short term.
Skeletal muscle and liver gene expression profiles in finishing steers supplemented with Amaize
Authors: Elolimy Ahmed A. , Moisá Sonia J. , Brennan Kristen M. , Smith Allison C. , Graugnard Daniel , Shike Daniel W. , Loor Juan J.
Published: May 2018

Our main objective was to evaluate the effects of feeding α‐amylase (Amaize, Alltech Inc., Nicholasville, KY, USA) for 140 days on skeletal muscle and liver gene transcription in beef steers. Steers fed Amaize had lower average daily gain (p = .03) and gain:feed ratio (p = .05). No differences (p > .10) in serum metabolites or carcass traits were detected between the two groups but Amaize steers tended (p < .15) to have increased 12th rib fat depth. Microarray analysis of skeletal muscle revealed 21 differentially expressed genes (DEG), where 14 were up‐regulated and seven were down‐regulated in Amaize‐fed steers. The bioinformatics analysis indicated that metabolic pathways involved in fat formation and deposition, stress response, and muscle function were activated, while myogenesis was inhibited in Amaize‐fed steers. The quantitative PCR results for liver revealed a decrease (p < .01) in expression of fatty acid binding protein 1 (FABP1) and 3‐hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase 1 (BDH1) with Amaize. Because these genes are key for intracellular fatty acid transport, oxidation and ketone body production, data suggest a reduction in hepatic lipid catabolism. Future work to investigate potential positive effects of Amaize on cellular stress response, muscle function, and liver function in beef cattle appears warranted.
Optimization of the in vitro fertilization protocol for frozen epididymal sperm with low fertilization ability in Ban—A native Vietnamese pigs
Authors: Linh Nguyen Viet , Somfai Tamas , Nguyen Thi Hiep , Nhung Nguyen Thi , Hong Nguyen Thi , Dat Nguyen Tien , Thinh Nguyen Hoang , Van Nguyen Khanh , Quyen Dong Van , Chu Hoang Ha , Son Nguyen Thanh , Kikuchi Kazuhiro
Published: May 2018

The aim of the present study was to improve the penetration during in vitro fertilization (IVF) of a frozen lot of epididymal sperm with a notoriously low fertilization ability of a Ban boar which is a native Vietnamese breed by optimizing different parameters of the IVF system. In Experiment 1, we determined that Pig‐fertilization medium was superior medium to Tyrode's albumin lactate pyruvate‐polyvinyl alcohol medium for IVF and defined the optimum the sperm concentration (1 × 106 sperm/ml). In Experiment 2, we clarified that partial removal of cumulus cells from cumulus‐oocyte complexes by hyaluronidase treatment before IVF enhances sperm penetration, whereas complete cumulus removal reduces penetration. Finally, in Experiment 3 the elevation of concentration of caffeine in Pig‐fertilization medium from 2 to 5 mmol/L and the prolongation of the co‐culture of gametes from 3 to 5 hr significantly increased the total penetration rate from 15.2% to over 50%. In conclusion, the combination of partial oocyte denudation, an elevated caffeine concentration in Pig‐fertilization medium and an extended interval of IVF with using an optimized sperm concentration was a potent way to improve the fertilization results for a frozen epididymal Ban sperm lot with low fertility.
Allogeneic haematopoietic cell transplantation for adult acute myeloid leukaemia in second remission: a retrospective study of the Adult Acute Myeloid Leukaemia Working Group of the Japan Society for Haematopoietic Cell Transplantation (JSHCT)
Authors: Konuma Takaaki , Yanada Masamitsu , Yamasaki Satoshi , Kuwatsuka Yachiyo , Fukuda Takahiro , Kobayashi Takeshi , Ozawa Yukiyasu , Uchida Naoyuki , Ota Shuichi , Hoshino Takumi , Takahashi Satoshi , Kanda Yoshinobu , Ueda Yasunori , Takanashi Minoko , Kanda Junya , Ichinohe Tatsuo , Atsuta Yoshiko , Yano Shingo
Published: May 2018

To evaluate the outcomes and prognostic factors following allogeneic haematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) for adult acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) in second complete remission (CR2), we retrospectively analysed the Japanese registration data of 1080 adult AML patients in CR2 who had received allogeneic HCT. The probability of overall survival and the cumulative incidence of relapse at 3 years was 66% and 19%, respectively. In multivariate analysis, older age, poor cytogenetics and shorter duration of first complete remission were significantly associated with a higher overall mortality. Our data demonstrated the significant efficacy of allogeneic HCT for adult AML in CR2.
Outcome of patients with Myelofibrosis relapsing after allogeneic stem cell transplant: a retrospective study by the Chronic Malignancies Working Party of EBMT
Authors: McLornan Donal P. , Szydlo Richard , Robin Marie , van Biezen Anja , Koster Linda , Blok Henrik J. P. , Van Lint Maria T. , Finke Jürgen , Vitek Antonin , Carlson Kristina , Griskevicius Laimonas , Holler Ernst , Itälä‐Remes Maija , Schaap Michel , Socié Gerard , Bay Jacques‐Olivier , Beguin Yves , Bruno Benedetto , Cornelissen Jan J. , Gedde‐Dahl Tobias , Ljungman Per , Rubio Marie T. , Yakoub‐Agha Ibrahim , Klyuchnikov Evgeny , Olavarria Eduardo , Chalandon Yves , Kröger Nicolaus
Published: May 2018

Allogeneic Haematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant (allo‐HSCT) remains the only curative approach for Myelofibrosis (MF). Scarce information exists in the literature on the outcome and, indeed, management of those MF patients who relapse following transplant. We hereby report on the management and outcome of 202 patients who relapsed post allo‐HSCT for MF.
How I manage patients with relapsed/refractory diffuse large B cell lymphoma
Authors: Gisselbrecht Christian , Van Den Neste Eric
Published: May 2018

Despite progress in the upfront treatment of diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL), patients still experience relapses. Salvage chemotherapy followed by autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) is the standard second‐line treatment for relapsed and refractory (R/R) DLBCL. However, half of the patients will not be eligible for transplantation due to ineffective salvage treatment, and the other half will relapse after ASCT. In randomized studies, no salvage chemotherapy regimen is superior to another. The outcomes are affected by the secondary International Prognostic Index at relapse and various biological factors. The strategy is less clear in patients who require third‐line treatment. A multicohort retrospective non‐Hodgkin lymphoma research (SCHOLAR‐1) study conducted in 636 patients with refractory DLBCL showed an objective response rate of 26% (complete response 7%) to the next line of therapy with a median overall survival of 6·3 months. In the case of a response followed by transplantation, long‐term survival can be achieved in DLBCL patients. There is clearly a need for new drugs that improve salvage efficacy. Encouraging results have been reported with chimeric antigen receptor ‐T cell engineering, warranting further studies in a well‐defined control group of refractory patients. The Collaborative Trial in Relapsed Aggressive Lymphoma (CORAL) was used as a handy framework to build the discussion.
Employment Institutions under Liberalization Pressures: Analysing the Effects of Regulatory Change on Collective Bargaining in Spain
Authors: López‐Andreu Martí
Published: May 2018

This article discusses the effects of regulatory change in employees’ working conditions and the dynamics of collective bargaining in Spain, a model affected by a drastic regulatory change, and draws a comparison with the UK, the more deregulated and single‐employer bargaining model in Europe. The comparison is carried out using EU‐SILC panel data to identify commonalities and differences in the patterns of change in salaries and working hours. Second, national data from Spain are used to analyse the impacts of reforms on the characteristics and outputs of collective bargaining. The findings show that regulatory changes provoked a drastic adjustment in wages in Spain, following patterns similar to the British model. However, the results lead us to highlight the need to enhance knowledge about the dynamics of bargaining processes as they crucially reveal that these trends are happening in mostly unchanged institutional characteristics.
Sulfite protects neurons from oxidative stress
Authors: Kimura Yuka , Shibuya Norihiro , Kimura Hideo
Published: May 2018

Background and Purpose

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and polysulfides (H2Sn) are signalling molecules that mediate various physiological responses including cytoprotection. Their oxidized metabolite sulfite (SO32−) is found in blood and tissues. However, its physiological role remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the cytoprotective effect of sulfite on neurons exposed to oxidative stress caused by high concentrations of the neurotransmitter glutamate, known as oxytosis.

Experimental Approach

Concentrations of sulfite as well as those of cysteine and GSH in rats were measured by HPLC. Cytoprotective effects of sulfite on primary cultures of rat neurons against oxytosis was examined by WST‐8 cytoprotective and LDH cytotoxicity assays and compared with that of H2S, H2Sn and thiosulfate.

Key Results

Free sulfite, present at approximately 2 μM in the rat brain, converts cystine to cysteine more efficiently than H2S and H2Sn and facilitates transport of cysteine into cells. Physiological concentrations of sulfite protected neurons from oxytosis and were accompanied by increased intracellular concentrations of cysteine and GSH probably due to converting extracellular cystine to cysteine, more efficiently than H2S and H2Sn. In contrast, thiosulfate only slightly protected neurons from oxytosis.

Conclusions and Implications

Our present data have shown sulfite to be a novel cytoprotective molecule against oxytosis, through maintaining cysteine levels in the extracellular milieu, leading to increased intracellular cysteine and GSH. Although there may be adverse clinical effects in sensitive individuals, our results provide a new insight into the therapeutic application of sulfite to neuronal diseases caused by oxidative stress.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Chemical Biology of Reactive Sulfur Species. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v176.4/issuetoc
Recognizing complex trauma in child welfare‐affected mothers of colour
Authors: Stephens Tricia N.
Published: May 2018

Child welfare‐affected mothers of colour live with the deleterious effects of complex trauma unrecognized by the child welfare system. Child welfare system instead focuses on mothers' more overt functional difficulties, facilitating a misalignment between mothers' felt needs and mandated services. Qualitative data from a mixed‐methods study were used to explore the phenomenon of complex trauma in 20 urban‐dwelling mothers using a combined interpretive phenomenological and directed content analysis. Mothers experienced chronic and compound exposure to traumatic events. Themes of interpersonal violations of trust and pervasive mistrust of others, revictimization, absence of appropriate mental health treatment, and maternal growth emerged. Implications for utilizing a trauma‐informed approach for policy and practice are discussed.
“We felt completely left to ourselves.” Foster parents' views on placement disruption
Authors: Tonheim Milfrid , Iversen Anette Christine
Published: May 2018

The purpose of this paper is to explore the reasons for unintended placement disruptions in foster care. Based on a semistructured survey, the paper presents the views of 132 Norwegian foster parents who have experienced placement disruption between 2013 and 2015. Foster parents rated several relevant causes of placement disruption: the child's behaviour, the need for care, concern for the well‐being of their biological children, and lack of support from the Child Welfare Service (CWS). Although the child's behaviour was the cause most frequently reported in the quantitative data, CWS‐related factors such as poor collaboration, not being valued and listened to, insufficient support and follow‐up, and a mismatch between the child's needs and the foster carers' capacity were reported most frequently in the qualitative data. Placement disruption appears to be caused by the sum and interaction of several coexisting causes. It may not be the child's behaviour per se but rather the combination of challenging behaviour, concern for one's biological children, and insufficient support from CWS that lead to disruption. Good collaboration with the CWS in the form of respect, recognition, support, and follow‐up appears to be of the utmost importance in reducing the risk of placement disruption.
Family contact in foster care in Portugal. The views of children in foster care and other key actors
Authors: Delgado Paulo , Pinto Vânia S. , Carvalho João M.S. , Gilligan Robbie
Published: May 2018

This is a pilot study on the sensitive issue of how children and young people experience family contact in foster care, and the views of key adults in their lives on the same issue. There is a special focus on the children's experiences, opinions, and feelings. The study is a response to the relative scarcity of literature on family contact based on the experiences of children and adults in caring roles. This is a qualitative and exploratory study, with a sample of 10 children and young people in care in the district of Porto, aiming to identify key issues and areas for further examination. The results allow us to conclude that the possibility of maintaining contact is positively evaluated. However, perspectives on the relationships involved, and on the reactions to and difficulties associated with visits, revealed considerable disagreement among the actors. A possible set of implications drawn from the findings pointed out to the importance of developing a monitored cooperation that improves communication processes in order to take into account the children's and young people's views in the decision‐making process; and to develop more attentive and open working relationships with parents throughout the foster care placement.
Cardiometabolic effects of antidiabetic drugs in non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Rix Iben , Steen Pedersen Julie , Storgaard Heidi , Gluud Lise Lotte
Published: May 2018

Purpose

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects about 25% of the population worldwide. NAFLD may be viewed as the hepatological manifestation of metabolic syndrome. Patients with metabolic syndrome due to diabetes or obesity have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. This narrative review describes cardiometabolic effects of antidiabetic drugs in NAFLD.

Methods

We conducted a systematic search in PubMed and manually scanned bibliographies in trial databases and reference lists in relevant articles.

Results

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in NAFLD. Conversely, NAFLD is an independent cardiovascular risk factor in patients suffering from metabolic syndrome. NAFLD is associated with markers of atherosclerosis, and patients have increased risk of ischaemic heart disease. Additionally, patients with NAFLD have increased risk of cardiac dysfunction and heart failure. There are no randomized controlled trials showing clear effects of medical treatment on clinical outcomes in patients with NAFLD. However, based on evidence from small trials and extrapolation from trials evaluating patients with type 2 diabetes, some antidiabetic drugs may be beneficial on cardiovascular function in patients with NAFLD.

Conclusion

At present, there is promising evidence of a potential effect of antidiabetic drugs for patients with NAFLD. Future studies should address the treatment of NAFLD and the liver‐related consequences but also aim at improving the cardiometabolic outcomes.
Differentiated‐type predominant mixed‐histology‐type early gastric cancer is a significant risk factor for endoscopic non‐curative resection regardless of tumor size
Authors: Isomoto Hajime
Published: May 2018

This Editorial refers to the article by Y. Horiuchi, p 624‐632 of this issue.
Undergraduate students' evaluation and reflections on a gerodontology programme
Authors: Attard N. , Schembri A. , Caruana C. , Agius A‐M. , Gainza‐Cirauqui M. L.
Published: May 2018

Introduction

Many societies have observed a steady increase of many older adults living longer due to advancements in health and standard of living. The dental team requires specialised training in gerodontology to better prepare for the future needs of the elderly patients. It is the aim of this study to report the undergraduate students' activities and perspectives on their work experience in a geriatric residence.

Materials and Methods

An anonymous online questionnaire on the theoretical and practical aspects of training was sent to students in dentistry and dental hygiene (DH) undergraduate courses. Students were also invited to discuss their experiences. Data of clinical treatment performed by the students were collected. The number of clinical hours of student exposure to patients was measured.

Results

Completion of the questionnaire was high (90%). Both DH and dentistry students have in excess of 100 hours/y of clinical practice. Overall students rate their experience as a positive one that enriches patients' well‐being. However they identify barriers to oral health and experience challenges related to their clinical work and level of competence (Kruskal‐Wallis Test P < .05).

Conclusions

study participants were strongly motivated towards the management of frail older adults and cognisant of the barriers and constraints of achieving a reasonable level of oral health. Gerodontology programmes should be adaptable in order to create the appropriate environment and address socio‐emotional challenges experienced by students.
Frailty phenotype and its association with all‐cause mortality in community‐dwelling Norwegian women and men aged 70 years and older: The Tromsø Study 2001–2016
Authors: Langholz Petja Lyn , Strand Bjørn Heine , Cook Sarah , Hopstock Laila A
Published: May 2018

Aim

There is a lack of studies on the prevalence of frailty, and the association between frailty and mortality in a Norwegian general population. Findings regarding sex differences in the association between frailty and mortality have been inconsistent. The aim of the present study was to investigate the association between the frailty phenotype and all‐cause mortality in men and women in a Norwegian cohort study.

Methods

We followed 712 participants (52% women) aged ≥70 years participating in the population‐based Tromsø 5 Study in 2001–2002 for all‐cause mortality up to 2016. The frailty status at baseline was defined by a modified version of Fried's frailty criteria. Cox regression models were used to analyze the association between frailty and mortality with adjustment for age, sex, disability, comorbidity, smoking status and years of education.

Results

In total, 3.8% (n = 27) of participants were frail (women 4.4%, men 3.2%) and 38.1% (n = 271) were pre‐frail (women 45.8%, men 29.9%). During follow‐up (mean 10.1 years), 501 (70%) participants died. We found an increased risk of mortality for frail older adults (multivariable‐adjusted HR 4.16, 95% CI 2.40–7.22) compared with non‐frail older adults. In sex‐stratified analysis, the adjusted HR was 7.09 (95% CI 3.03–16.58) for frail men and 2.93 (95% CI 1.38–6.22) for frail women. Results for pre‐frailty showed an overall weaker association with mortality.

Conclusions

While frailty was more prevalent in women than in men, the findings suggest that the association between frailty and mortality is stronger in men than in women. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 1200–1205.
Factors affecting the appetites of persons with Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Suma Shino , Watanabe Yutaka , Hirano Hirohiko , Kimura Ai , Edahiro Ayako , Awata Shuichi , Yamashita Yoshihisa , Matsushita Kenji , Arai Hidenori , Sakurai Takashi
Published: May 2018

Aim

Appetite loss has been associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Among older people, decreased appetite can result in poor nutrition and subsequent loss of independent living. We examined the factors related to appetite loss in persons with AD and MCI to provide evidence for countermeasures to prevent appetite loss and progression of cognitive impairment.

Methods

We included 1238 older adults undergoing outpatient treatment at the Center for Comprehensive Care and Research on Memory Disorders (Medical Center for Dementia) at the National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology in Obu, Japan. The Council on Nutrition Appetite Questionnaire, an appetite questionnaire for older people, was used to evaluate appetite. Appetite loss in persons diagnosed with AD or MCI was divided into two groups according to the Council on Nutrition Appetite Questionnaire scores, and logistic regression analysis was carried out to identify independent factors associated with appetite loss. The following variables were used to evaluate for covariates: general information, functional evaluation and medications.

Results

The AD and MCI groups contained 853 and 385 individuals, respectively. In both groups, depression and difficulty in maintaining attention while eating were significantly associated with poor appetite. Among persons with AD, lower vitality, more comorbidities, non‐use of antidementia drugs and use of psychotropic drugs were also significantly associated with poor appetite.

Conclusions

The present study recognized possible factors individually associated with appetite loss among persons with AD or MCI. Future studies are required to examine supportive strategies to treat poor appetite in these populations. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 1236–1243.
Miracle of haemophilia drugs: Personal views about a few main players
Authors: Mannucci P. M.
Published: May 2018

Introduction

In the second decade of the third millennium there have been dramatic developments pertaining to the availability of highly innovative drugs for hemophilia care, notwithstanding a satisfactory previous scenario.

Aim

I am going to emphasize the role of 2 main categories of players: scientist physicians who produced important translational research and the pharmaceutical industry, who developed, produced and made commercially available so many improved treatment weapons stemming from the translational research of the forementioned scientist physicians.

Results

Pertaining to the role of scientist physicians, I chose to mention first those who were successful in the 1980 in the production of recombinant coagulation factors. In addition, those who more recently helped to produce new non substitutive therapies given by the subcutaneous route, and recombination coagulation factors with an extended half‐life.

Conclusions

Current miraculous progress in hemophilia therapy is stemming from the research work of outstanding scientist physicians who acted in close collaboration with small biotechnology companies, leading to the early development of innovative therapeutic products, subsequently taken to the market place by the so called Big Pharma. I shall briefly provide my views to explain the fact that large pharmaceutical companies show more and more interest in such a rare disease as the hemophilias.
A prospective study to validate various clinical criteria used in classification of leprosy: a study from a tertiary care center in India
Authors: Thapa Manisha , Sendhil Kumaran Muthu , Narang Tarun , Saikia Uma N. , Sawatkar Gitesh U. , Dogra Sunil
Published: May 2018

Background

Various clinical criteria are used to categorize leprosy patients into paucibacillary (PB) and multibacillary (MB), thus aiding in appropriate treatment. However, comprehensive studies validating these criteria are minimal.

Aims

To assess sensitivity and specificity of different clinical criteria individually and in combination for classifying leprosy into PB/MB spectrum.

Method

A prospective study was conducted wherein 50 newly diagnosed, untreated leprosy cases were recruited and classified into PB and MB using the following clinical criteria: number of skin lesions (NSL), number of body areas affected (NBAA), and size of largest skin lesion (SLSL). Patients with pure neuritic leprosy, diffuse macular type of lepromatous leprosy, and with reactions were excluded. Sensitivity and specificity of these clinical criteria in classification was calculated taking histopathological findings as gold standard.

Results

Among 50 patients, 37 were males and 13 were females with a mean age of 32.08 ± 16.55 years. The sensitivity and specificity of NSL, NBAA, and SLSL was 94.74 and 87.1%, 94.74 and 61.29%, and 73.68 and 16.13%, respectively. Combining all three criteria, the sensitivity increased to 100%, but specificity decreased drastically to 12.9%. The ROC curve for NSL, NBAA, and SLSL showed a cutoff of ≥6 skin lesions, ≥3 body areas affected, and ≤2 cm lesion to classify as MB.

Conclusion

The current WHO system of leprosy classification based on NSL seems to be best among available clinical criteria. Uniform and sensible application of this criteria itself assures appropriate categorizing and leprosy treatment with reasonable sensitivity and specificity.
Comorbidities in vitiligo: comprehensive review
Authors: Dahir Aisha M. , Thomsen Simon F.
Published: May 2018

Vitiligo is a common skin disorder characterized by idiopathic, progressive cutaneous hypomelanosis. Vitiligo is associated with several comorbid autoimmune, systemic, and dermatological diseases, primarily thyroid disease, alopecia areata, diabetes mellitus, pernicious anemia, systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, Addison's disease, inflammatory bowel disease, Sjögren's syndrome, dermatomyositis, scleroderma, ocular and audiological abnormalities, psoriasis, and atopic dermatitis. It is essential to increase awareness of these comorbidities in order to improve the disease burden and quality of life of patients with vitiligo. Herein, we review the association with the most frequent comorbidities associated with vitiligo.