bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The future of the international drug control system and national drug prohibitions
Authors: Hall Wayne
Published: September 2017

A major impediment to any nation abandoning the policy of drug prohibition has been the fact that international drug treaties to which the majority of United Nations (UN) member states are signatory prohibit the non‐medical use of amphetamines, cannabis, cocaine and heroin. The future of these treaties is now uncertain because of decisions by Uruguay, eight US states and Canada to legalize cannabis use. This paper: (1) provides a brief account of the international drug control treaties; (2) outlines the major criticisms of the treaties; (3) analyses critically proposals for treaty reform; and (4) provides a personal view on policies that nation states could adopt to minimize the harms from the use of cannabis, party drugs and hallucinogens, opioids, stimulants and new psychoactive substances. It is argued that: a major risk of cannabis legalization in the United States is promotion of heavy use and increased harm by a weakly regulated industry; some cautious national experiments with the regulation of party drugs and hallucinogens would be informative; a strong case remains for prohibiting the nonmedical use of opioids while mitigating the adverse effects that this policy has on opioid‐dependent people; stimulant legalization will probably increase problem use but prohibition is difficult to enforce, highlighting the urgency of finding better ways to reduce demand for these drugs and respond to problem users; and that it is unclear what the best approach is to reducing possible harms that may arise from the use of new psychoactive substances.
Biofilm formation of beta‐hemolytic group G Streptococcus dysgalactiae subspecies equisimilis isolates and its association with emm polymorphism
Authors: Ma Jui‐Shan , Chen Sin‐Yu , Lo Hsueh‐Hsia
Published: September 2017

Biofilm formation has been well known as a determinant of bacterial virulence. Group G Streptococcus dysgalactiae subspecies equisimilis (SDSE), a relevant pathogen with increasing medical importance, was evaluated for the biofilm‐forming potential. Microtiter plate assay was used to assess the most feasible medium for group G SDSE to form a biofilm. Among 246 SDSE isolates examined, 46.7%, 43.5%, 33.3%, and 26.4% of isolates showed moderate or strong biofilm‐forming abilities using tryptic soy broth (TSB), brain heart infusion broth (BHI), Todd‐Hewitt broth (THB), and C medium with 30 mM glucose (CMG), respectively. The addition of glucose significantly increased the biofilm‐forming ability of group G SDSE. FCT (fibronectin–collagen–T‐antigen) typing of SDSE was first undertaken and 11 FCT types were found. Positive associations of stG10.0 or negative associations of stG245.0, stG840.0, and stG6.1 with biofilm‐forming ability of SDSE were, respectively, found. This was the first investigation demonstrating biofilm‐forming potential in clinical group G SDSE isolates; also, some significant associations of biofilm‐forming ability with certain emm types were presented.
Review article: transient receptor potential channels as possible therapeutic targets in irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Beckers A. B. , Weerts Z. Z. R. M. , Helyes Z. , Masclee A. A. M. , Keszthelyi D.
Published: September 2017

Background

Abdominal pain in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) remains challenging to treat effectively. Researchers have attempted to elucidate visceral nociceptive processes in order to guide treatment development. Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels have been implied in the generation (TRPV1, TRPV4, TRPA1) and inhibition (TRPM8) of visceral pain signals. Pathological changes in their functioning have been demonstrated in inflammatory conditions, and appear to be present in IBS as well.

Aim

To provide a comprehensive review of the current literature on TRP channels involved in visceral nociception. In particular, we emphasise the clinical implications of these nociceptors in the treatment of IBS.

Methods

Evidence to support this review was obtained from an electronic database search via PubMed using the search terms “visceral nociception,” “visceral hypersensitivity,” “irritable bowel syndrome” and “transient receptor potential channels.” After screening the abstracts the articles deemed relevant were cross‐referenced for additional manuscripts.

Results

Recent studies have resulted in significant advances in our understanding of TRP channel mediated visceral nociception. The diversity of TRP channel sensitization pathways is increasingly recognised. Endogenous TRP agonists, including poly‐unsaturated fatty acid metabolites and hydrogen sulphide, have been implied in augmented visceral pain generation in IBS. New potential targets for treatment development have been identified (TRPA1 and TRPV4,) and alternative means of affecting TRP channel signalling (partial antagonists, downstream targeting and RNA‐based therapy) are currently being explored.

Conclusions

The improved understanding of mechanisms involved in visceral nociception provides a solid basis for the development of new treatment strategies for abdominal pain in IBS.
Identification of lactic acid bacteria in the feces of dairy cows fed whole crop maize silage to assess the survival of silage bacteria in the gut
Authors: Han Hongyan , Wang Chao , Li Yanbing , Yu Zhu , Xu Qingfang , Li Guangpeng , Minh Tang Thuy , Nishino Naoki
Published: September 2017

In order to assess the survival of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) in whole crop maize silage in the gut of dairy cows, one representative silage sample and three different feces samples were collected from dairy cows on three dairy farms in Hua Bei, China and three dairy farms in Kyushu, Japan. The composition of the bacterial community was examined by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis and quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Lactobacillus acetotolerans was detected in all bunker‐made maize silage samples, regardless of the dairy farm or sampling region from which they were sourced. A total of eight LAB species were detected in the maize silage samples, of which three (L. acetotolerans, L. pontis and L. casei) appeared to survive digestion. The populations of L. acetotolerans in silage and feces were 106–7 and 103–4 copies/g, respectively, indicating that, even for the LAB species showing potential survival in the gut, competition in this niche may be harsh and the population may substantially decrease during the digestion process. It may be difficult for silage LAB to survive in the gut of silage‐fed dairy cows, because marked decrease in population can take place during the digestion process, even for surviving species.
In the search for a lead structure among series of potent and selective hydantoin 5‐HT7R agents: The drug‐likeness in vitro study
Authors: Latacz Gniewomir , Lubelska Annamaria , Jastrzębska‐Więsek Magdalena , Partyka Anna , Sobiło Andrzej , Olejarz Agnieszka , Kucwaj‐Brysz Katarzyna , Satała Grzegorz , Bojarski Andrzej J. , Wesołowska Anna , Kieć‐Kononowicz Katarzyna , Handzlik Jadwiga
Published: September 2017

Since the year 1993, when 5‐HT7 receptor (5‐HT7R) was discovered, there is no selective 5‐HT7R ligand introduced to the pharmaceutical market. One out of the main reasons disqualifying the 5‐HT7R ligands is weak drugability properties, including metabolic instability or low permeability. This study is focused on the search of a lead compound by “drug‐likeness” estimation of the first series of selective and potent 5‐HT7R ligands among 5‐(4‐fluorophenyl)‐3‐(2‐hydroxy‐3‐(4‐aryl‐piperazin‐1‐yl)propyl)‐5‐methylimidazolidine‐2,4‐dione derivatives (11–16). The most important drugability parameters, i.e., permeability, metabolic stability, and safety, have been evaluated. The main metabolic pathways were determined. The forced swim test (FST) in mice was performed as a primary in vivo assay for compound 13 and the reference 2. The experiments showed promising drug‐like properties for all ligands, with special attention to the benzhydryl (diphenylmethyl) derivative 13. The studies have also indicated in vivo activity of the compound 13 that was observed as a significant and specific antidepressant‐like activity in the FST. Taking into account the beneficial properties of 13, i.e., good drug‐like parameters, the significant antagonistic action, high selectivity to 5‐HT7R, and its in vivo antidepressant‐like activity, the compound should be considered as a new lead in the search for drugs acting on CNS via 5‐HT7 receptor.
First progress report on the Japan Endoscopy Database project
Authors: Kodashima Shinya , Tanaka Kiyohito , Matsuda Koji , Fujishiro Mitsuhiro , Saito Yutaka , Ohtsuka Kazuo , Oda Ichiro , Katada Chikatoshi , Kato Masayuki , Kida Mitsuhiro , Kobayashi Kiyonori , Hoteya Shu , Horimatsu Takahiro , Matsuda Takahisa , Muto Manabu , Yamamoto Hironori , Ryozawa Shomei , Iwakiri Ryuichi , Kutsumi Hiromu , Miyata Hiroaki , Kato Mototsugu , Haruma Ken , Fujimoto Kazuma , Uemura Naomi , Kaminishi Michio , Tajiri Hisao
Published: September 2017

Background and Aim

The Japan Endoscopy Database (JED) Project was started to develop the world's largest endoscopic database, capture the actual performance of endoscopic practice, and standardize the terminology and fundamental items needed for a clinical and research registry. This paper presents a progress report on the first phase of this project undertaken at eight endoscopic centers in Japan.

Methods

The list of data items to be collected was drafted by the MSED‐J (Minimal Standard Endoscopic Database) subcommittee. These items were aggregated offline by integrating data from two endoscopic filing systems between July 2015 and December 2015. The study population included all patients who underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy or colonoscopy at all eight centers, patients who underwent enteroscopy at five of the eight centers, and patients who underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) at four of the eight centers.

Results

Data collected in this phase included 61 070 endoscopic procedures, of which 40 475 were esophagogastroduodenoscopies, 215 were enteroscopies, 19 204 were colonoscopies, and 1176 were ERCPs. Frequencies of complications were 0.68% for esophagogastroduodenoscopy, 0% for enteroscopy, 0.43% for colonoscopy, and 13.34% for ERCP. In addition, we obtained various data including Helicobacter pylori infection status, past history of endoscopy in patients who underwent enteroscopy or colonoscopy, and degree of difficulty of ERCP, although the frequencies of reporting were sometimes low, with some items <20%.

Conclusion

Results of the first phase suggest that the JED project can provide vast quantities of useful data about endoscopic procedures.
Neurobiology of developmental coordination disorder: time to raise our game
Authors: Liégeois Frédérique
Published: September 2017

This commentary is on the review by Wilson et al. on pages 1117–1129 of this issue.
Post‐socialist transition and intergenerational educational mobility in Kyrgyzstan
Authors: Brück Tilman , Esenaliev Damir
Published: September 2017

We investigate long‐term trends in intergenerational educational mobility in a lower middle‐income transition economy. We draw on evidence from Kyrgyzstan using data from three household surveys collected in 1993, 1998 and 2011. We find that Kyrgyzstan, like Eastern European middle‐income transition economies, maintained high educational mobility, comparable to levels during the Soviet era. However, we find that the younger cohorts, exposed to the transition during their school years, experienced a rapid decline in educational mobility. We also document that gender differences in schooling and educational mobility, found among older‐aged individuals, disappeared in the younger cohorts.
Open standing castration in Thoroughbred racehorses in Hong Kong: Prevalence and severity of complications 30 days post‐castration
Authors: Rosanowski S. M. , MacEoin F. , Graham R. J. T. Y. , Riggs C. M.
Published: September 2017

Background

Complications following open standing castration (OSC) in Thoroughbred racehorses are well recognised but variation in their prevalence and severity between populations is not well documented.

Objectives

To describe the prevalence and severity of complications in the 30 days following OSC.

Study design

A retrospective cohort study of veterinary clinical records relating to horses that underwent OSC between July 2007 and July 2012.

Methods

Complications were graded on a severity score from N, no complications, to C3, severe complications. Additional data were accessed for each horse including age, import date, racing history, trainer and veterinarian performing the castration. Bacterial culture and antimicrobial sensitivities were performed on a limited number of castration wounds that became infected.

Results

In total, 250 horses were castrated in Hong Kong using the OSC technique over the period of the study. Sixty percent (150/250) of horses experienced some type of post‐castration complication, with eight horses experiencing a severe (C3) complication requiring intensive veterinary treatment. Scrotal swelling, funiculitis and seroma formation were present in 70.0%, 36.7% and 24.7% of cases respectively. Most horses experiencing complications required wound reopening (87.3%; 131/150), and/or an extended course of first‐line antimicrobials and/or nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (75/150; 50.0%). Eight horses had cultures submitted for bacterial sensitivity, with 17 bacterial isolates grown. In vitro, the bacteria cultured were sensitive to enrofloxacin (76%; 13/17) and ceftiofur (100%; 17/17). Resistance was detected to penicillin, gentamicin, oxytetracycline, metronidazole and trimethoprim‐sulfadiazine.

Main limitations

Differences in post‐castration management cannot be accounted for in this study.

Conclusions

Complications following OSC in horses in Hong Kong were common. The majority were mild and were successfully treated using antimicrobials and simple wound management. Given the high rate of complications and antimicrobial usage identified in this study, a review of the technique is warranted.
MOVEMENT AND EMBODIMENT IN KLOPSTOCK AND GOETHE
Authors: Lee Charlotte
Published: September 2017

Poetry is both physical and mobile: it moves us, and moves in us. This essay focuses on the role of the moving body in the work of Klopstock, with a brief excursus into Goethe's poetry. Klopstock conceived of poetry as a kind of dance, and his innovations in prosody consisted of an intensification of the physical dimension of poetry. He consistently challenged the assumption underlying dualistic philosophies: namely, that the physical and the metaphysical, the tangible and the intangible, are ultimately separate. In his work, it is precisely the substance and weight of language which allows poetry to spin into the realms of the spiritual. His theory and practice is, therefore, thoroughly in tune with the premises of the modern notion of embodied cognition.
Analysis of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) using high‐sensitivity HBsAg assays in hepatitis B virus carriers in whom HBsAg seroclearance was confirmed by conventional assays
Authors: Ozeki Itaru , Nakajima Tomoaki , Suii Hirokazu , Tatsumi Ryoji , Yamaguchi Masakatsu , Kimura Mutsuumi , Arakawa Tomohiro , Kuwata Yasuaki , Ohmura Takumi , Hige Shuhei , Karino Yoshiyasu , Toyota Joji
Published: September 2017

Aim

We investigated the utility of high‐sensitivity hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) assays compared with conventional HBsAg assays.

Methods

Using serum samples from 114 hepatitis B virus (HBV) carriers in whom HBsAg seroclearance was confirmed by conventional HBsAg assays (cut‐off value, 0.05 IU/mL), the amount of HBsAg was re‐examined by high‐sensitivity HBsAg assays (cut‐off value, 0.005 IU/mL). Cases negative for HBsAg in both assays were defined as consistent cases, and cases positive for HBsAg in the high‐sensitivity HBsAg assay only were defined as discrepant cases.

Results

There were 55 (48.2%) discrepant cases, and the range of HBsAg titers determined by high‐sensitivity HBsAg assays was 0.005–0.056 IU/mL. Multivariate analysis showed that the presence of nucleos(t)ide analog therapy, liver cirrhosis, and negative anti‐HBs contributed to the discrepancies between the two assays. Cumulative anti‐HBs positivity rates among discrepant cases were 12.7%, 17.2%, 38.8%, and 43.9% at baseline, 1 year, 3 years, and 5 years, respectively, whereas the corresponding rates among consistent cases were 50.8%, 56.0%, 61.7%, and 68.0%, respectively. Hepatitis B virus DNA negativity rates were 56.4% and 81.4% at baseline, 51.3% and 83.3% at 1 year, and 36.8% and 95.7% at 3 years, among discrepant and consistent cases, respectively. Hepatitis B surface antigen reversion was observed only in discrepant cases.

Conclusions

Re‐examination by high‐sensitivity HBsAg assays revealed that HBsAg was positive in approximately 50% of cases. Cumulative anti‐HBs seroconversion rates and HBV‐DNA seroclearance rates were lower in these cases, suggesting a population at risk for HBsAg reversion.
Comforting Discomfort as Complicity: White Fragility and the Pursuit of Invulnerability
Authors: Applebaum Barbara
Published: September 2017

In this article, I trouble the pedagogical practice of comforting discomfort in the social‐justice classroom. Is it possible to support white students, for instance, and not comfort them? Is it possible to support white students without recentering the emotional crisis of white students, without disregarding the needs and interests of students of color, and without reproducing the violence that students of color endure? First I address the dangers of comforting discomfort and discuss Robin DiAngelo's notion of white fragility, which has been used to explain the tendency of white people to flee discomfort rather than tarry with it (DiAngelo 2011). Employing Erinn Gilson's work on vulnerability, I argue that white fragility is not a weakness but an active performance of invulnerability (Gilson 2011; 2014). I conclude by arguing that developing vulnerability is a counter to white fragility, and that one way such vulnerability can be encouraged is through offering critical hope, which I maintain is a type of support that does not comfort.
Seeing sunlit owls in a new light: orienting Snowy Owls may not be displaying
Authors: Wiebe Karen L. , Chang Alexander M.
Published: September 2017

Snowy OwlsBubo scandiacusoften face the sun when sitting on the ground or when perched. Such sun‐orienting has been suggested to represent a visual display to conspecifics but other explanations have not been thoroughly examined. We observed the orientation of wintering Snowy Owls to both the sun and the wind, and their perching behaviour during two winters in central Saskatchewan, Canada. We proposed three new explanations for sun orientation in addition to the display hypothesis: thermoregulation, hunting and defence against predators. On sunny days, 44% of 710 Owls faced the sun; this was non‐random because few did so on overcast days. Sun‐ as opposed to wind‐orienting was strongly associated with weather conditions. Logistic regressions indicated that at temperatures below –13 °C and at wind speeds greater than about 18 km/h, Owls tended to orient to the wind rather than to the sun. The likelihood of wind‐orienting increased if the Owl perched above the ground, whereas the likelihood of sun‐orientating increased slightly when the Owl was sitting on the ground. There was no difference between the sexes in orienting behaviour. Snowy Owls seemed to prioritize wind‐orienting for thermoregulation but the results are also consistent with the idea that sun‐orientation can reduce heat loss. Facing into the sun did not support the hunting explanation because the birds would have been blinded and not able to see prey, but was consistent with the protection explanation if it helps to increase vigilance against enemies. Although we cannot completely rule out the display explanation, the spatial context of sunning Owls and a lack of a sex effect makes it unlikely that this is the main function. Instead, Owls seem to trade‐off wind‐ vs. sun‐orienting according to the prevailing weather conditions and do so mainly to thermoregulate and perhaps to maintain vigilance.
Effect of magnesium content on bioactivity of near invert phosphate‐based glasses
Authors: Islam Md Towhidul , Hossain Kazi M. Zakir , Sharmin Nusrat , Parsons Andrew J. , Ahmed Ifty
Published: September 2017

A series of phosphate glasses 40P2O5‐(40−x)CaO‐xMgO‐(20−y)Na2O‐yTiO2 (where 0 ≤ x ≤ 24 and y = 0 or 1) with varying MgO contents were investigated for their in vitro calcium phosphate (CaP) formation. Thermal analysis of these glass compositions was conducted and a significant decrease in glass transition temperature from 448°C to 430°C was seen with reducing MgO content from 24 to 8 mol%. Degradation studies were performed in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) at 37°C, where the 8 mol% MgO glass showed the highest mass loss of around 3.4% after 28 days of immersion. Cation release studies were conducted via ion chromatography, using ultrapure water at 37°C as the degradation medium. The highest release of Ca2+ and Na+ ions was observed with the 8 mol% MgO glass. In vitro CaP formation studies were conducted using glass discs immersed in simulated body fluid (SBF) at 37°C for up to 28 days. The amorphous phase and chemical composition of deposited CaP layers on the glass discs were confirmed via X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis, respectively. CaP layers with Ca/P ratio 0.8‐1.1 were found to be deposited on the lower MgO content (8 to 2 mol%) glass surface after 28 days of SBF study.
Phosphate content affects structure and bioactivity of sol‐gel silicate bioactive glasses
Authors: Ting Hung‐Kai , Page Sam J. , Poologasundarampillai Gowsihan , Chen Shu , Yu Bobo , Hanna John V. , Jones Julian R.
Published: September 2017

Bioactive glasses can heal bone defects and bond with bone through formation of hydroxyl carbonate apatite (HCA) surface layer. Sol‐gel derived bioactive glasses are thought to have potential for improving bone regeneration rates over melt‐derived compositions. The 58S sol‐gel composition (60 mol% SiO2, 36 mol% CaO, and 4 mol% P2O5) has appeared in commercial products. Here, hydroxyapatite (HA) was found to form within the 58S glass during sol‐gel synthesis after thermal stabilization. The preformed HA may lead to rapid release of calcium orthophosphate, or nanocrystals of HA, on exposure to body fluid, rather than the release of separate the calcium and phosphate species. Increasing the P2O5 to CaO ratio in the glass composition reduced preformed HA formation, as observed by XRD and solid‐state NMR. Instead, above 12 mol% phosphate, a phosphate glass network (polyphosphate) formed, creating co‐networks of phosphate and silica. Nanopore diameter of the glass and rate of HCA layer formation in simulated body fluid (SBF) decreased when the phosphate content increased.
Sodium is not essential for high bioactivity of glasses
Authors: Chen Xiaojing , Chen Xiaohui , Brauer Delia S. , Wilson Rory M. , Law Robert V. , Hill Robert G. , Karpukhina Natalia
Published: September 2017

This study aims to demonstrate that excellent bioactivity of glass can be achieved without the presence of an alkali metal component in glass composition.

In vitro bioactivity of two sodium‐free glasses based on the quaternary system SiO2‐P2O5‐CaO‐CaF2 with 0 and 4.5 mol% CaF2 content was investigated and compared with the sodium‐containing glasses with equivalent amount of CaF2. The formation of apatite after immersion in Tris buffer was followed by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, 31P and 19F solid‐state MAS‐NMR. The dissolution study was completed by ion release measurements in Tris buffer. The results show that sodium‐free bioactive glasses formed apatite at 3 h of immersion in Tris buffer, which is as fast as the corresponding sodium‐containing composition. This signifies that sodium is not an essential component in bioactive glasses and it is possible to make equally degradable bioactive glasses with or without sodium. The results presented here also emphasize the central role of the glass compositions design which is based on understanding of structural role of components and/or predicting the network connectivity of glasses.
Dielectric spectroscopy and dissolution studies of bioactive glasses
Authors: Elgayar Iman , Hill Robert , Chen Xiaojing , Bubb Nigel , Wood David
Published: September 2017

The first and rate‐limiting step in the degradation of bioactive glasses is thought to be the ion exchange of hydrated protons in the external fluid with alkali metal cations in the glass. The activation energy (Ea) for alkali ion hopping can be followed by dielectric spectroscopy. The replacement of CaO by Na2O resulted in a reduction in the Ea for ion hopping. In contrast, increasing the glass network connectivity or reducing the nonbridging oxygen content of the glass resulted in an increase in Ea. Substitution of K2O for Na2O had little influence on Ea. Mixing alkali metals increased the Ea as expected on the basis of the mixed alkali effect. There was no correlation between the Ea for ion hopping and the dissolution behavior of the glass. Furthermore, the activation energy for Si, Ca Na, and K ion release was found to be approximately a factor of three lower than that for ion hopping suggesting that another rate‐controlling mechanism is important in the degradation of bioactive glasses. The presence of a second relaxation process suggested that bioactive glasses undergo amorphous phase separation into silica‐rich and orthophosphate‐rich phases and the two relaxation processes are due to ion hopping in the two phases.
Evaluation of the relation between lipid coat, transepidermal water loss, and skin pH
Authors: Algiert‐Zielińska Barbara , Batory Mirella , Skubalski Janusz , Rotsztejn Helena
Published: September 2017

Objective

The epidermis is an epidermal barrier which accumulates lipid substances and participates in skin moisturizing. An evaluation of the epidermal barrier efficiency can be made, among others, by the measurement of the following values: the lipid coat, the transepidermal water loss (TEWL) index, and pH.

Materials

The study involved 50 Caucasian, healthy women aged 19–35 years (mean 20.56).

Methods

Measurements were made using Courage & Khazaka Multi Probe Adapter MPA 580: Tewameter TM 300, pH‐Meter PH 905, Sebumeter SM 815. The areas of measurements included forehead, nose, left cheek, right cheek, chin, and thigh.

Results

In the T‐zone, the lipid coat was in the range between 0 and 270 μg/cm2 (mean 128 μg/cm2), TEWL between 1 and 55 g/m2/h (mean 11.1 g/m2/h), and pH 4.0–5.6 (mean 5.39). Lower values of the lipid coat up to 100 μg/cm2 were accompanied by TEWL greater than 30 g/m2/h and less acidic pH of 5.6–9.0. In the U‐zone the range of lipid coat was up to 200 μg/cm2 (mean 65.2 μg/cm2), the skin pH remained 4.0–5.6 (mean 5.47), and TEWL was in the range between 1 and 20 g/m2/h (mean 8.7 g/m2/h). Lower values of the lipid coat up to 100 μg/cm2 were accompanied by TEWL between 1 and 20 g/m2/h and less acidic pH of 5.6–9.0. High values of the lipid coat between 180 and 200 μg/cm2 were connected with TEWL of 1–15 g/m2/h. On the skin of the thigh, we observed a very thin lipid coat – 35 μg/cm2 (mean 5.6 μg/cm2), pH (mean 5.37), and TEWL (mean 8.5 g/m2/h) were considered by us to be within regular limits.

Conclusions

In the T‐zone, a thinner lipid coat resulted in relatively high TEWL and pH levels changing toward alkaline. In the U‐zone, thinner lipid coat was accompanied by lower TEWL and pH changing toward alkaline. We also observed that lower values of lipid coat up to 100 μg/cm2 were associated with higher pH values ranging toward the basic character pH 5.6–9.0).
Investigating consumers' perception of apple juice as affected by novel and conventional processing technologies
Authors: Lee Pui Yee , Kebede Biniam T. , Lusk Karen , Mirosa Miranda , Oey Indrawati
Published: September 2017

This work evaluates consumers' perception of apple juice processed by high pressure processing (HPP) and pulsed electric field (PEF) compared with thermal processing. As a case study, young Chinese immigrants living in New Zealand were selected. Targeting a broad understanding of process impact, three industrially relevant apple cultivars (New Zealand Jazz, Rose and Granny Smith) were chosen. The consumer study was performed using napping with ultra‐flash profiling technique (n = 38). The process impact on sensory perception seems to vary among the investigated apple cultivars. For Jazz and Granny Smith apple cultivars, PEF‐ and HPP‐treated juices are perceived as fresh, natural, sweet and balanced flavour. For Rose apple cultivar, however PEF‐processed juices appear to be perceived as fresh flavour in comparison with HPP and thermally treated juices. Moreover, thermal processing caused cooked flavour. With respect to colour, immediately after processing, HPP retains the natural apple juice colour compared with other treatments.
The influence of flaxseed gum on the retrogradation of maize starch
Authors: Yang Xue , Feng Mei‐qin , Sun Jian , Xu Xing‐lian , Zhou Guang‐hong
Published: September 2017

The influence of flaxseed gum (FG) on the retrogradation of maize starch (MS) was investigated in this study. Based on the results of rapid visco‐analyzer (RVA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Low field nuclear magnetic resonance (LF‐NMR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), FG has a retardation effect on the retrogradation of MS. With the addition increasing, the more significant the retardation effect was observed (P < 0.05). However, when the concentration of FG was up to 0.4%, the change of retrogradation ratio showed no significant difference (P > 0.05). FG could wrap around starch granules, suppress the recrystallisation of amylose and amylopectin, increase the water mobility and decrease the water loss. In summary, the overall results suggested that FG could be used as a natural inhibitor of the retrogradation of starch in food industry.
Wage differentials within a female‐dominated occupation: Domestic workers in informal and flexible jobs in Portugal
Authors: SULEMAN Fátima , FIGUEIREDO Maria da Conceição
Published: September 2017

The authors use an original cross‐sectional data set to examine the impact of informal and flexible contractual arrangements on the wages of domestic workers hired by private employers in Portugal. OLS estimations suggest that formality benefits workers, whether they have a stable or a flexible contract. However, social and labour market processes help to shape and maintain inequality, especially for migrant workers. Although skills are undervalued and do not generate rewards, higher wages are identified for workers who are engaged in contingent work, work for multiple employers or provide care for the elderly. However, such workers are still subject to exploitation and insecurity.
Delayed Discharges and Hospital Type: Evidence from the English NHS
Authors: Gaughan James , Gravelle Hugh , Siciliani Luigi
Published: September 2017

Delayed discharges of patients from hospital, commonly known as bed‐blocking, are a long‐standing policy concern. Delays can increase the overall cost of treatment and may worsen patient outcomes. We investigate how delayed discharges vary by hospital type (Acute, Specialist, Mental Health, Teaching) and the extent to which such differences can be explained by demography, case mix, hospital quality, the availability of long‐term care, and hospital governance as reflected in whether the hospital has Foundation Trust status, which gives greater autonomy and flexibility in staffing and pay. We use a new panel database of delays in all English NHS hospital Trusts from 2011–12 to 2013–14. Employing count data models, we find that a greater local supply of long‐term care (care‐home beds) is associated with fewer delays. Hospitals that are Foundation Trusts have fewer delayed discharges and might therefore be used as exemplars of good practice in managing delays. Mental Health Trusts have more delayed discharges than Acute Trusts, but a smaller proportion of them are attributed to the NHS, possibly indicating a relatively greater lack of adequate community care for mental health patients.
Impact of premature activation of the right ventricle with programmed stimulation in Brugada syndrome
Authors: Nakagawa Koji , Nagase Satoshi , Morita Hiroshi , Wada Tadashi , Tanaka Masamichi , Murakami Masato , Watanabe Atsuyuki , Nishii Nobuhiro , Nakamura Kazufumi , Kusano Kengo F. , Ito Hiroshi , Ohe Tohru
Published: September 2017

Background

In Brugada syndrome (BrS), it has been reported that delayed activation in the RV is related to the development of type‐1 ECG, which is more critical than type‐2. On the other hand, the coexistence of complete right bundle‐branch block (CRBBB), which also causes delayed activation in the RV, sometimes makes typical BrS ECG misleading. We hypothesized that premature stimulation of the RV can unmask the influence of delayed activation in the RV and convert the morphology of ECG in BrS patients.

Methods and results

In 35 BrS patients with type‐1 ECG including 8 patients with concomitant CRBBB and 6 control subjects with CRBBB, progressively premature single stimulations were delivered from the RV apex on electrophysiological study. Then we evaluated QRS morphology of fusion beats created by single premature stimulation in each patient. In 29 (83%) of 35 of the BrS patients, conversion from type‐1 to type‐2 ECG was observed during the process of single premature stimulation. Additionally, in all 8 BrS patients with concomitant CRBBB, type‐1 or type‐2 BrS ECG was revealed by premature stimulation with relief of CRBBB. These findings were not observed in any of the control subjects with CRBBB.

Conclusion

Single premature stimulation of the RV converts ECG from type‐1 to type‐2 in most BrS cases and unmasks type‐1 ECG in all BrS cases with CRBBB. Our results could suggest that type‐1 ECG is associated with delayed activation of the RV compared with type‐2 ECG.
The tip of the muscle is a dominant location of ventricular ectopy originating from papillary muscles in the left ventricle
Authors: Peichl Petr , Baran Jakub , Wichterle Dan , Čihák Robert , Skála Tomáš , Aldhoon Bashar , Jan Matevž , Antolič Bor , Kautzner Josef
Published: September 2017

Introduction

Frequent ventricular premature complexes (VPCs) may cause symptoms and/or lead to deterioration of LV systolic function. Although frequent VPCs may be abolished by catheter ablation, it may be challenging in case of their origin from the LV papillary muscles (PMs). Our collaborative study aimed to analyze in detail the site of origin and the outcome of ablation.

Methods

Consecutive 34 patients (males: 68%; aged 62 ± 12 years; LV ejection fraction: 50 ± 9%) undergoing catheter ablation of VPCs originating from PMs were included. All procedures were guided by intracardiac echocardiography.

Results

The size and shape of PMs were highly variable. The length of anterolateral and posteromedial PM was 23 ± 4 mm and 28 ± 7 mm, respectively. In about one‐third of patients, the PM was formed by two distinctly separate heads. The ectopic foci were located on anterolateral, posteromedial or both PM in 35%, 56% and 9% of cases, respectively. Their location was found within the distal, mid, or proximal (basal) third of PM in the 67%, 19%, and 14%, respectively. A total of 86% of PM foci were acutely abolished and long‐term success was achieved in 65% of patients. Absence of VPCs of other morphologies and a high burden of ectopic activity before ablation were associated with favorable clinical outcome.

Conclusion

VPCs originate predominantly from the distal portion of the PM. This knowledge may facilitate the mapping in patients with infrequent ectopic beats. Intracardiac echocardiography is of crucial importance for navigation of the ablation catheter and for assessment of its stability at PM target sites.
Imputation of Gait Speed for Noncompleters in the 400‐Meter Walk: Application to the Lifestyle Interventions for Elders Study
Authors: Chen Haiying , Ambrosius Walter T. , Murphy Terrence E. , Fielding Roger , Pahor Marco , Santanasto Adam J. , Tudor‐Locke Catrine , Jack Rejeski W. , Miller Michael E. ,   the LIFE Study
Published: September 2017

When a 400‐m walk test with time constraint (in 15 minutes) is administered, analysis of the associated 400‐m gait speed can be challenging because some older adults are unable to complete the distance in time (noncompleters). A simplistic imputation method is to calculate the observed speeds of the noncompleters as the partially completed distance divided by the corresponding amount of elapsed time as an estimate of gait speed over the full 400‐m distance. This common practice has not been validated to the best of our knowledge. We propose a Bayesian multiple imputation (MI) method to impute the unobserved 400‐m gait speed for noncompleters. Briefly, MI is performed under the assumption that the unobserved 400‐m gait speed of noncompleters is left‐censored from a normal distribution. We illustrate the application of the Bayesian MI method using longitudinal data collected from the Lifestyle Interventions for Elders (LIFE) study. A simulation study was performed to assess the bias in estimation of the mean 400‐m gait speed using both methods. The results indicate that the simplistic imputation method tends to overestimate the population mean, whereas the Bayesian MI method yields minimal bias as the sample size increases.
Sexual Expression of Nursing Home Residents: Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Aguilar Rodolfo A.
Published: September 2017

Purpose

Living longer, baby boomers will need specialized care offered by nursing homes to manage chronic conditions. This review explores the knowledge, attitudes, and experiences towards older people's sexuality and sexual expression in nursing homes—an important area of research to meet the needs of this emerging population.

Design

A primary search of the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) and PubMed databases and secondary inclusion of cited references covering the period January 2000 to November 2016 identified 12 relevant studies.

Methods

Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) flow diagram of the screening process, data were extracted, summarized, and compared, and risk of bias was assessed focusing on ethical considerations, sample size and sampling methods, validity and reliability of data collection instruments, participation, cooperation, and response rate.

Findings

Overall, sexual expression in older adults is recognized as a basic need that should be supported. Positive attitudes towards sexuality in nursing homes were correlated with a higher level of knowledge about older adults’ sexuality. In addition, positive predictors of attitudes towards sexuality in nursing homes were found to be: age, level of education, and years of experience. Barriers to addressing sexuality in the elderly are the lack of privacy and staff discomfort, which together represent common causes for loneliness and lack of intimacy in nursing homes.

Conclusions

Nursing research and practice need to shift their focus towards individual needs of nursing home residents to accommodate their values and expectations.

Clinical Relevance

Care providers must include a thorough assessment of sexual health of older adults living in nursing homes in routine practice, and include sexual health in the treatment plan.
Managing Persistent Tensions on the Frontline: A Configurational Perspective on Ambidexterity
Authors: Zimmermann Alexander , Raisch Sebastian , Cardinal Laura B.
Published: September 2017

Ambidexterity research has noted that firms’ simultaneous pursuit of exploration and exploitation causes organizational tensions that are difficult to resolve. To make these tensions manageable, scholars have generally suggested that senior managers take the central role in designing organizational solutions, such as the structural separation or contextual integration of the exploratory and exploitative tasks. Yet, in an inductive study of ten corporate innovation initiatives, we find that our informants assigned far less importance to the senior managers’ initial design choices than to the frontline managers’ subsequent configurational practices. Frontline managers used these practices to constantly adapt and align their initiatives’ organizational contexts, which allowed them to cope with persistent exploration‐exploitation tensions in their daily business activities. Based on these empirical insights and drawing on paradox theory, we develop a configurational perspective on ambidexterity, where frontline managers play a more central, proactive, and strategic role than purported by the established design perspective on ambidexterity.
Preventive dental care among Medicaid‐enrolled senior adults: from community to nursing facility residence
Authors: Kelly Mary C. , Caplan Daniel J. , Bern‐Klug Mercedes , Cowen Howard J. , Cunningham‐Ford Marsha A. , Marchini Leonardo , Momany Elizabeth T.
Published: September 2017

Objective

The primary objective of this study was to determine whether the utilization rate of preventive oral health care services while senior adults were community‐dwelling differed from the rate after those same senior adults were admitted to nursing facilities. A secondary objective was to evaluate other significant predictors of receipt of preventive oral health procedures after nursing facility entry.

Methods

Iowa Medicaid claims from 2007–2014 were accessed for adults who were 68+ years upon entry to a nursing facility and continuously enrolled in Medicaid for at least three years before and at least two years after admission (n = 874). Univariate, bivariate and multivariable analyses were conducted.

Results

During the five years that subjects were followed, 52.8% never received a dental exam and 75.9% never received a dental hygiene procedure. More Medicaid‐enrolled senior adults received ≥1 preventive dental procedure in the two years while residing in a nursing facility compared to the three years before entry. In multivariable analyses, the strongest predictor of preventive oral health care utilization after entry was the receipt of preventive oral health services before entry (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

The strongest predictor of receipt of dental procedures in the two years after nursing facility entry was the receipt of dental procedures in the three years before entry while community‐dwelling. This underscores the importance of the senior adult establishing a source of dental care while community‐dwelling.
How electoral incentives shape performance measurement efforts
Authors: Miller Susan M.
Published: September 2017

Although scholars have assessed how the electoral connection of legislators and chief executives affects their support for performance measurement, we know less about how electoral considerations might influence agency administrators’ focus on performance measurement. I suggest that independently elected administrators’ attention to their agency's performance measurement system may be conditional on the likelihood that their efforts in this area will help them realize their electoral goals. Because there is a greater electoral incentive to focus on performance issues when government performance is deficient, elected administrators should be as likely as, if not more likely than, their non‐elected counterparts to focus on performance measurement when the government is performing poorly and less likely to do so when the government is performing well. I find evidence that supports this expectation. This article provides insight into the implications of electoral incentives for management decisions.
Long‐Term Follow‐Up of Lymphatic Malformations in Children Treated with Sildenafil
Authors: Tu Joanna H. , Tafoya Elidia , Jeng Michael , Teng Joyce M.
Published: September 2017

Background/Objectives

Lymphatic malformations (LMs) are challenging to treat. Reports on the benefits of sildenafil for LM management have been mixed. This study evaluated long‐term clinical outcomes of pediatric LM patients after sildenafil treatment.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was performed on pediatric LM patients treated with sildenafil in the past 5 years. Patients were also contacted to complete a survey of comprehensive questions about their LM after sildenafil and subsequent interventions.

Results

Of 12 patients identified, 10 (83.3%) participated in the follow‐up survey. The average age was 8 years (range 4–16 yrs), median treatment duration was 9 months, and the average time of follow‐up after sildenafil was 4 years; one patient is still taking sildenafil. Ten patients surveyed (83.3%) reported positive therapeutic response, with improvement in the size and compressibility of their LM during posttreatment clinical visits. Six received additional interventions (four sirolimus, one sclerotherapy, one surgery) after sildenafil was discontinued, with all but one reporting a positive response to subsequent interventions. Minor side effects at the time of sildenafil treatment included mild flushing, dizziness, and transient nausea, but no adverse effects were reported at the long‐term follow‐up.

Conclusion

This is the first report of long‐term follow‐up of pediatric LM patients treated with sildenafil. Our findings suggest that sildenafil is beneficial for the symptomatic treatment of LMs. Additional analysis on the role of sildenafil as adjuvant therapy is necessary to optimize the use of this medication in the management of complex LMs.
Post‐Chikungunya Rheumatic Disease in a 13‐Year‐Old Boy
Authors: Landis Erin T. , Strowd Lindsay C. , Taxter Alysha J.
Published: September 2017

Chikungunya is a mosquito‐borne viral infection that causes an acute febrile illness and can result in acute or chronic musculoskeletal disease. A 13‐year‐old boy presented with post‐Chikungunya rheumatic disease featuring connective tissue disease signs including digital ulcerations, cuticular dystrophy, dilated capillary loops, and digital tapering.
Strategic Cognition of Operations Executives
Authors: Phadnis Shardul S. , Sheffi Yossi , Caplice Chris , Singh Mahender
Published: September 2017

The nature of operations executives’ strategic cognition, as the antecedent to their choices about operations strategy, remains underexplored in the literature. This mixed‐methods study examines executives’ thinking about supply chain strategy through the lens of managerial cognition. Our qualitative study at a pharmaceutical distributor, which examined 25 executives’ outlook on the future of the turbulent U.S. healthcare sector and their suggestions for adapting the company's supply chain strategy to that future, suggests that an executive's strategic cognition can be defined by its regulatory focus—whether the executive envisions the future environment in terms of opportunities or threats—and the level of optimism in regards to the envisioned future. We propose a typology that predicts the strategic choices of operations executives based on four types of cognition: pioneering, pushing, protective, and provocative. It describes whether an executive's strategic choices target traditional or novel sources of revenue, and if they seek to influence either the firm's structure and practices or its environment. Our empirical test of the typology using quantitative data collected in a survey of senior operations executives supports the study's propositions associating three of the four types of cognition with their respective preferred strategic choices.