bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ARACINs, Brassicaceae-Specific Peptides Exhibiting Antifungal Activities against Necrotrophic Pathogens in Arabidopsis
Authors: Neukermans Jenny , Inzé Annelies , Mathys Janick , De Coninck Barbara , van de Cotte Brigitte , Cammue Bruno P.A. , Van Breusegem Frank
Published: January 2015

Plants have developed a variety of mechanisms to cope with abiotic and biotic stresses. In a previous subcellular localization study of hydrogen peroxide-responsive proteins, two peptides with an unknown function (designated ARACIN1 and ARACIN2) have been identified. These peptides are structurally very similar but are transcriptionally differentially regulated during abiotic stresses during Botrytis cinerea infection or after benzothiadiazole and methyl jasmonate treatments. In Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana), these paralogous genes are positioned in tandem within a cluster of pathogen defense-related genes. Both ARACINs are small, cationic, and hydrophobic peptides, known characteristics for antimicrobial peptides. Their genes are expressed in peripheral cell layers prone to pathogen entry and are lineage specific to the Brassicaceae family. In vitro bioassays demonstrated that both ARACIN peptides have a direct antifungal effect against the agronomically and economically important necrotrophic fungi B. cinerea, Alternaria brassicicola, Fusarium graminearum, and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum and yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae). In addition, transgenic Arabidopsis plants that ectopically express ARACIN1 are protected better against infections with both B. cinerea and A. brassicicola. Therefore, we can conclude that both ARACINs act as antimicrobial peptides.
Solid-state supramolecular architecture of carbenoxolone – comparative studies with glycyrrhetinic and glycyrrhizic acids
Authors: Tykarska Ewa , Gdaniec Maria
Published: January 2015

Carbenoxolone (CBXH2), a pharmaceutically relevant derivative of glycyrrhetinic acid, was studied by X-ray crystallography. The crystal structures of its unsolvated form, propionic acid and dimethoxyethane solvates and a solvated cocrystal of the free acid with its monobasic sodium salt CBXH2·CBXHNa·(butan-2-one)2·2H2O reveal that the recurring motif of supramolecular architecture in all crystal forms is a one-dimensional ribbon with closely packed triterpene fragments. It does not result from strong specific interactions but solely from van der Waals interactions. The ribbons are further arranged into diverse layer-type aggregates with a hydrophobic interior (triterpene skeletons) and hydrophilic surfaces covered with carboxylic/carboxylate groups. Solvent molecules included at the interface between the layers influence hydrogen-bonding interactions between the carbenoxolone molecules and organization of the ribbons within the layer. Comparison of crystal structures of carbenoxolone, glycyrrhizic acid and its aglycone–glycyrrhetinic acid have shown the impact of the size and hydrophilic character of the substituent at the triterpene C3 atom on the supramolecular architecture of these three closely related molecules.
Crystal structure of bis(thiocyanato-κS)bis(thiourea-κS)mercury(II)
Authors: Baskaran A. , Rajarajan K. , NizamMohideen M. , Sagayaraj P.
Published: January 2015

In the title complex, [Hg(NCS)2(CH4N2S)2], the HgIIatom is four-coordinated having an irregular four-coordinate geometry composed of four thione S atoms of two thiocyanate groups and two thiourea groups. The S—Hg—S angles are 172.02 (9)° for thetrans-thiocyanate S atoms and 90.14 (5)° for thecis-thiourea S atoms. The molecular structure is stabilized by an intramolecular N—H...S hydrogen bond, which forms anS(6) ring motif. In the crystal, molecules are linked by a number of N—H...N and N—H...S hydrogen bonds, forming a three-dimensional framework. The first report of the crystal structure of this compound appeared in 1966 [Korczynski (1966).Rocz. Chem.40, 547–569] with an extremely highRfactor of 17.2%, and no mention of how the data were collected.
Have IFRS changed how stock prices are associated with earnings and book values?
Authors: Beisland Leif Atle , Knivsflå Kjell Henry
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine how the mandatory shift from Norwegian Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (NGAAP) to International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) in Norway affected the valuation weights of earnings and book values, with the aim of gaining insights that are relevant for standard setters, investors and other users of accounting information.

Design/methodology/approach

– The authors extend the IFRS literature on structural shifts between the pre- and post-adoption periods by comprehensively controlling for factors that vary between the IFRS sample and the domestic Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) sample. Moreover, the tests are designed to reveal the underlying accounting causes of the observed differences in value relevance.

Findings

– IFRS are balance sheet-oriented and emphasize measurement at fair value. By contrast, NGAAP are earnings-oriented and focus on historical cost. IFRS also differ from NGAAP by recognizing more intangible assets. Overall, IFRS are thus less conservative than NGAAP. It was found that expanded fair value accounting increases the value relevance of book values and decreases the value relevance of earnings. However, the improved matching of intangible asset expenditures with the future economic benefits of such intangible assets increases the persistence and value relevance of earnings relative to book values.

Originality/value

– This paper introduces a test methodology that is designed to identify the effects that specific accounting differences between the IFRS sample and the domestic GAAP sample have on value relevance. Consequently, this paper not only identifies the overall effects on value relevance but also contributes to the literature by identifying specific accounting differences between IFRS and GAAP that cause these overall effects, and thus obtain insights that are valuable for standard setters and other users of accounting information.
Rapid prototyping model for the manufacturing by thermoforming of occlusal splints
Authors: Jiménez M. , Romero L. , Domínguez M. , Espinosa M.M.
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– This paper aims to present an optimal prototyping technology for the manufacture of occlusal splints.

Design/methodology/approach

– To carry out this study, a comparative technique was used to analyze models obtained by different prototyping techniques. Subsequently, further tests were carried out with respect to the manufacturing of splints by means of thermoforming in a vacuum. This involved an analysis of the most important variables such as prototype material, geometric accuracy, surface finish and costs.

Findings

– It was found that there is a group of prototyping technologies that are suitable for the manufacture of the models used in the thermoforming of correction splints, the most appropriate technologies being based on ink jet printing (IJP-Objet), ultraviolet photo polymerization and fused deposition modelling due to the fact that they offer an optimal relationship between the cost and the quality of the model required for thermoforming.

Practical implications

– The application of rapid prototyping techniques in medicine makes the production of physical models from three-dimensional medical image processing and their subsequent use in different specialties possible. It also makes preoperative planning processes, the production of prostheses and the preparation of surgical templates possible, thereby offering a higher quality of diagnosis, safer surgery and cost and time savings compared to conventional manufacturing technologies.

Originality/value

– This paper suggests that there exists a group of prototyping technologies for the manufacture of splints that offer advantages over existing technologies. The results also suggest that, in many cases, the most expensive technology is not the most appropriate: there are other options that provide an optimal model in terms of the cost and the quality needed for thermoforming.
Customized implants with specific properties, made by selective laser melting
Authors: Leordean Dan , Dudescu Cristian , Marcu Teodora , Berce Petru , Balc Nicolae
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper was to present how customized implants could be made with specific properties, by setting different values of the laser power, within the selective laser melting (SLM) process. A detailed case study was undertaken and a new multi-structured femoral prosthesis was designed and analyzed, to simulate its behavior for a specific case study.

Design/methodology/approach

– The materials and manufacturing methods are presented, with details regarding the SLM process, using the Realizer 250 machine. The laser power was varied between 50 and 200 W, thus obtaining samples with different physical and mechanical characteristics. All those sample parts were characterized and their properties were measured.

Findings

– A practical methodology was found to produce multi-structured implants by SLM. Significant changes of the porosity and properties were found, when modifying the laser power at the SLM machine. The studies have indicated an open porosity varying between 24.810.83 per cent. Tensile tests of the samples showed Young’s modulus values varying between 13.5 and 104.5 GPa and an ultimate stress between 20.2 and 497.5 MPa.

Research limitations/implications

– There is no Additive Manufacturing (AM) machine available, to work with different laser power values, in different regions of the same section of the implant. Hence, a multi-structured implant cannot be obtained directly.

Practical implications

– The prosthesis should be specifically designed to contain separate models/regions to be made with appropriate laser power values.

Originality/value

– This paper presents a new method to design and manufacture a multi-structured implant, using the existing AM equipment. A detailed case study is presented, showing the design procedure, the way to simulate its behavior and the methods to produce the implants by SLM.
Process parameters optimization for area-forming rapid prototyping system
Authors: Chiu Shih-Hsuan , Chen Kun-Ting , Wicaksono Sigit Tri , Tsai Jia-Rung , Pong Sheng-Hong
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– The aim of this study is to optimize the process parameters of area-forming rapid prototyping system to improve the model dimensional repeatability and to minimize the process time as well.

Design/methodology/approach

– Model dimensional repeatability is based on the dimensional standard deviation of the test sample. The significant factors that affect the model dimensional repeatability and process time are established by the fractional factorial design. Response surface methodology, based on the central composite design, is applied to evaluate the regression models of the response variables including prototype’s dimensional repeatability and processing time. Finally, a desirability function for each individual response variables is constructed to obtain the optimal process parameters.

Findings

– The significant factors that have an impact on the main effects of response variables model dimensional repeatability and process time found by the fractional factorial design are curing time, light flux and platform moving velocity.

Originality/value

– All previous studies were concerned with product accuracy in area-forming rapid prototyping system. In this work, we focus on optimization of model dimensional repeatability.
REVIEW: Emerging viral disease risk to pollinating insects: ecological, evolutionary and anthropogenic factors
Authors: Manley Robyn , Boots Mike , Wilfert Lena
Published: January 2015

The potential for infectious pathogens to spillover and emerge from managed populations to wildlife communities is poorly understood, but ecological, evolutionary and anthropogenic factors are all likely to influence the initial exposure and subsequent infection, spread and impact of disease. Fast‐evolving RNA viruses, known to cause severe colony losses in managed honeybee populations, deserve particular attention for their propensity to jump between host species and thus threaten ecologically and economically important wild pollinator communities.

We review the literature on pollinator viruses to identify biological and anthropogenic drivers of disease emergence, highlight gaps in the literature, and discuss potential management strategies.

We provide evidence that many wild pollinator species are exposed to viruses from commercial species, resulting in multiple spillover events. However, it is not clear whether species become infected as a result of spillover or whether transmission is occurring within these wild populations. Ecological traits of pollinating insects, such as overlapping ranges, niches and behaviours, clearly promote cross‐species transmission of RNA viruses. Moreover, we conclude that the social behaviour and phylogenetic relatedness of social pollinators further facilitate within‐ and between‐host transmission, leaving these species particularly vulnerable to emerging diseases.

We argue that the commercial use of pollinators is a key driver of disease emergence in these beneficial insects and that this must be addressed by management and policy.

Synthesis and applications. There are important knowledge gaps, ranging from disease distribution and prevalence, to pathogen life history and virulence, to the impacts of disease emergence, which need to be addressed as research priorities. It is clear that avoiding anthropogenic pathogen spillover is crucial to preventing and managing disease emergence in pollinators, with far‐reaching effects on our food security, ecosystem services and biodiversity. We argue that it is crucial to prevent the introduction of diseased pollinators into natural environments, which can be achieved through improved monitoring and management practices.
Measuring the effectiveness of a revised clinical practice guideline for the pre‐hospital management of supraventricular tachycardia
Authors: Smith Gavin , McD Taylor David , Morgans Amee , Cameron Peter
Published: January 2015

Objective

To evaluate the effect of changes to the pre‐hospital management of patients with supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) following intervention with a revised Clinical Practice Guideline (CPG). The major CPG revisions were removal of verapamil, addition of adenosine and an emphasis on Valsalva manoeuvre.

Method

We undertook a retrospective case study using data collected by paramedics. All adult patients attended by paramedics from the periods 14 February 2012 to 14 September 2012 (old CPG) and 14 February 2013 to 14 September 2013 (revised CPG) were included. Patients were excluded if SVT was not recorded during initial assessment on a hardcopy ECG. Management guided by the old and revised CPGs was compared: reversion effectiveness, elements of therapy associated with reversion effectiveness and adverse events. Logistic regression determined patient factors significantly associated with reversion.

Results

Patients were predominantly women, aged approximately 57 years old and most lived in the Victorian metropolitan region. Vagal manoeuvre use and effectiveness decreased in the post‐intervention group. Fewer patients in the post‐intervention group (141/420, 33.6%) remained in SVT on arrival at hospital compared with the pre‐intervention group (205/403, 50.8%). Initial heart rate >170/min and longer scene time were 2.6 and 1.05 times more likely to result in reversion, respectively.

Conclusion

The revised CPG improved pre‐hospital SVT reversion success. This expansion of practice has not demonstrated improvements to utilisation or effectiveness of the Valsalva manoeuvre. Adenosine is effective and safe for pre‐hospital use.
Transgenic plants expressing the AaIT/GNA fusion protein show increased resistance and toxicity to both chewing and sucking pests
Authors: Liu Shu‐Min , Li Jie , Zhu Jin‐Qi , Wang Xiao‐Wei , Wang Cheng‐Shu , Liu Shu‐Sheng , Chen Xue‐Xin , Li Sheng
Published: January 2015

The adoption of pest‐resistant transgenic plants to reduce yield losses and decrease pesticide use has been successful. To achieve the goal of controlling both chewing and sucking pests in a given transgenic plant, we generated transgenic tobacco, Arabidopsis, and rice plants expressing the fusion protein, AaIT/GNA, in which an insecticidal scorpion venom neurotoxin (Androctonus australis toxin, AaIT) is fused to snowdrop lectin (Galanthus nivalis agglutinin, GNA). Compared with transgenic tobacco and Arabidopsis plants expressing AaIT or GNA, transgenic plants expressing AaIT/GNA exhibited increased resistance and toxicity to one chewing pest, the cotton bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera. Transgenic tobacco and rice plants expressing AaIT/GNA showed increased resistance and toxicity to two sucking pests, the whitefly, Bemisia tabaci, and the rice brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens, respectively. Moreover, in the field, transgenic rice plants expressing AaIT/GNA exhibited a significant improvement in grain yield when infested with N. lugens. This study shows that expressing the AaIT/GNA fusion protein in transgenic plants can be a useful approach for controlling pests, particularly sucking pests which are not susceptible to the toxin in Bt crops.
Evaluation of Maillard Reaction Variables and Their Effect on Heterocyclic Amine Formation in Chemical Model Systems
Authors: Dennis Cara , Karim Faris , Smith J. Scott
Published: January 2015

Heterocyclic amines (HCAs), highly mutagenic and potentially carcinogenic by‐products, form during Maillard browning reactions, specifically in muscle‐rich foods. Chemical model systems allow examination of in vitro formation of HCAs while eliminating complex matrices of meat. Limited research has evaluated the effects of Maillard reaction parameters on HCA formation. Therefore, 4 essential Maillard variables (precursors molar concentrations, water amount, sugar type, and sugar amounts) were evaluated to optimize a model system for the study of 4 HCAs: 2‐amino‐3‐methylimidazo‐[4,5‐f]quinoline, 2‐amino‐3‐methylimidazo[4,5‐f]quinoxaline, 2‐amino‐3,8‐dimethylimidazo[4,5‐f]quinoxaline, and 2‐amino‐3,4,8‐trimethyl‐imidazo[4,5‐f]quinoxaline. Model systems were dissolved in diethylene glycol, heated at 175 °C for 40 min, and separated using reversed‐phase liquid chromatography. To define the model system, precursor amounts (threonine and creatinine) were adjusted in molar increments (0.2/0.2, 0.4/0.4, 0.6/0.6, and 0.8/0.8 mmol) and water amounts by percentage (0%, 5%, 10%, and 15%). Sugars (lactose, glucose, galactose, and fructose) were evaluated in several molar amounts proportional to threonine and creatinine (quarter, half, equi, and double). The precursor levels and amounts of sugar were significantly different (P < 0.05) in regards to total HCA formation, with 0.6/0.6/1.2 mmol producing higher levels. Water concentration and sugar type also had a significant effect (P < 0.05), with 5% water and lactose producing higher total HCA amounts. A model system containing threonine (0.6 mmol), creatinine (0.6 mmol), and glucose (1.2 mmol), with 15% water was determined to be the optimal model system with glucose and 15% water being a better representation of meat systems.
Identification of the Geographical Origins of Pomelos Using Multielement Fingerprinting
Authors: Yan Jing , Liu Ji , Xiong Yabo , Qin Wen , Tang Cheng
Published: January 2015

Eighty pomelo samples and 80 soil samples were examined using a multielement component test to predict the geographical origins of pomelos produced in 4 regions (Sichuan, Chongqing, Fujian, and Guangxi Provinces) of China. The concentrations of 8 elements were determined by atomic absorption spectrometry. Ca, K, and Na were the most abundant elements. Principal component analysis (PCA) and linear discriminant analysis (LDA) were applied to reduce the dimensionality of the multielement data from 8 to 2 while retaining the highest possible variance. Using PCA and LDA, 69.66% and 91.30%, respectively, of the pomelo origins were classified correctly using multielement variables, along with 67.06% and 83.40% for soil multielement analysis. Results indicated that the LDA method was more effective for geographical origin classification than PCA. The results of the multielement component test demonstrated its capability to screen pomelo origins rapidly.
Physicochemical Properties and Storage Stability of Lutein Microcapsules Prepared with Maltodextrins and Sucrose by Spray Drying
Authors: Kuang Pengqun , Zhang Hongchao , Bajaj Poonam R. , Yuan Qipeng , Tang Juming , Chen Shulin , Sablani Shyam S.
Published: January 2015

The purpose of this study was to determine the physicochemical properties of lutein microcapsules. Nine types of lutein microcapsules were prepared in order to determine their encapsulation efficiency and yield. Results show that lutein microcapsules with maltodextrin M040 and sucrose at the weight ratio of 3:1 (designated as M040:1) had the highest encapsulation efficiency (90.1%) among the lutein microcapsules, as well as a higher encapsulation yield (90.4%). The onset glass transition temperatures (Tgi) and the surface dents of the lutein microcapsules decreased as the dextrose equivalent value of maltodextrin and the weight ratio of sucrose increased. Enthalpy relaxation experiments were conducted for the lutein microcapsules M040:1 at (Tgi – 5) , (Tgi – 10), and (Tgi – 15) °C, and the obtained data were fitted to the Kohlrausch–Williams–Watts model. Results show that the mean relaxation time (τ) (316 h) of M040:1 lutein microcapsules aged at (Tgi – 15) °C was greater than the τ (161 h) at (Tgi – 10) °C and τ (60.5 h) at (Tgi – 5) °C. Effects of temperature and oxygen transmission rates for package film on the storage stability of M040:1 lutein microcapsules were also investigated. Findings show that rates of lutein degradation and color change increased by an order of magnitude as storage temperature (4 to 97 °C) and oxygen transmission rate of the package film (0.018 to 62.8 cc/m2 day) increased. These results suggest that lutein is highly unstable and susceptible to thermal and oxidative degradations. However, microencapsulation with appropriate wall materials of higher relaxation time and high oxygen barrier packaging can increase the storage life.
Myelomatous pleural effusion involvement in 23 patients with multiple myeloma: A single‐center clinical analysis
Authors: Zhong Yuping , Zhang Jiajia , Wang Huan
Published: January 2015

We investigated the treatment and prognosis of pleural effusion (PE) in multiple myeloma (MM) patients. From June 2005 to December 2013, 296 MM patients participated in this study. There were 23 PE patients, including 11 men and 12 women, with a median age of 56.8 years (range 37–68 years). A diagnosis of PE was based on physical examination, chest X‐ray or computed tomography, and pleural fluid analysis. All patients demonstrated myeloma cells in the pleural fluid, and six patients were positive for PE M protein. PE patients received bortezomib combined with other drugs. Only one patient demonstrated a complete response; 10 patients showed partial responses, and 12 patients developed progressive disease and died. MM linked with myelomatous PE is associated with a poor prognosis. Myelomatous PE is likely a late manifestation of the natural history of MM or an expression of the aggressive behavior of the disease.
Common variants identified in genome‐wide association studies of testicular germ cell tumour: an update, biological insights and clinical application
Authors: Litchfield K. , Shipley J. , Turnbull C.
Published: January 2015

Testicular germ cell tumour (TGCT) is the most common cause of cancer in young men (aged 15–45 years) in many populations. Multiple genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) of TGCT have now been conducted, yielding over 25 disease‐associated single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)s at 19 independent loci. The genes at these loci have provided rich biological and genetic insight into possible mechanisms underlying testicular germ cell oncogenesis. In this review, we summarize these mechanisms which can be grouped into five distinct categories: KIT/KITLG signalling, other pathways of male germ cell development/differentiation, telomerase function, microtubule assembly and DNA damage repair. The TGCT risk markers identified through GWAS include individual SNPs carrying per allele odds ratios (OR) in excess of 2.5. These ORs are among the highest reported in GWAS of any cancer type, hence suggesting a potential clinical utility in risk determination. Here, we present analysis of such an approach, using polygenic risk scores to calculate the combined effect of all risk loci on overall TGCT risk and discuss how a potential screening strategy may fit within a broader clinical context.
The Danish Fetal Medicine Database: establishment, organization and quality assessment of the first trimester screening program for trisomy 21 in Denmark 2008–2012
Authors: Ekelund Charlotte K. , Petersen Olav B. , Jørgensen Finn S. , Kjaergaard Susanne , Larsen Torben , Olesen Annette W. , Skibsted Lillian , Skovbo Peter , Sommer Steffen , Sperling Lene , Stavnstrup Benedicte , Størup Birgitte , Zingenberg Helle , Uldbjerg Niels , Miltoft Caroline B. , Noergaard Lasse , Wulff Camilla B. , Tabor Ann ,   The Danish Fetal Medicine Research Group
Published: January 2015

Objective

To describe the establishment and organization of the Danish Fetal Medicine Database and to report national results of first‐trimester combined screening for trisomy 21 in the 5‐year period 2008–2012.

Design

National register study using prospectively collected first‐trimester screening data from the Danish Fetal Medicine Database.

Population

Pregnant women in Denmark undergoing first‐trimester screening for trisomy 21.

Methods

Data on maternal characteristics, biochemical and ultrasonic markers are continuously sent electronically from local fetal medicine databases (Astraia Gmbh software) to a central national database. Data are linked to outcome data from the National Birth Register, the National Patient Register and the National Cytogenetic Register via the mother's unique personal registration number. First‐trimester screening data from 2008 to 2012 were retrieved.

Main outcome measures

Screening performance was assessed for the years 2008–2012 by calculating detection rates and screen‐positive rates.

Results

A total of 268 342 first‐trimester risk assessments for trisomy 21 were performed in singleton pregnancies. Participation rate in first‐trimester screening was >90%. The national screen‐positive rate increased from 3.6% in 2008 to 4.7% in 2012. The national detection rate of trisomy 21 was reported to be between 82 and 90% in the 5‐year period.

Conclusion

A national fetal medicine database has been successfully established in Denmark. Results from the database have shown that at a national level first‐trimester screening performance for trisomy 21 is high with a low screen‐positive rate and a high detection rate.
Experiencing exclusion and reacting to stereotypes? Navigating borders of the migrant body
Authors: Jackson Lucy
Published: January 2015

In her seminal work on the body, Robyn Longhurst (1994) outlines that the body can be seen as the ‘geography closest in’. However, in contemporary society, when restrictions are placed upon the body and the body is subjected to boundary making and territorialisation, how does the geography of the body begin to change? The paper investigates the way in which emotional experiences of situated bodies alter over time and how public perceptions of particular (migrant) bodies changes the spaces through which they are materialised. It critically discusses the specific ways in which female migrants' bodies may be bordered in place and how particular stereotypes surrounding the migrant body lead to a very particular sense of territoriality. Territory has been defined as ‘a portion of geographic space which is claimed or occupied by a person or group of persons or by an institution’ (Storey D 2001). This paper looks at how territory is inscribed on, in and through the body, utilising the migrant body as an example that enacts and performs particular aspects of territory as a response to the classificatory stereotypes that challenge it. Drawing on feminist embodied research in Singapore, the paper demonstrates the different ways in which female migrants' bodies operate on the margins of society, creating specific territorial borders around their bodies. Discussions of the experiences of foreign domestic workers and expatriates in Singapore highlight how these bodies are stigmatised and categorised, demonstrating how social and cultural separations lead to a re‐territorialising and renegotiation of bodies.
Participatory responses to historical flash floods and their relevance for current risk reduction: a view from a post‐communist country
Authors: Raška Pavel , Brázdil Rudolf
Published: January 2015

Participatory responses to natural disasters are currently considered to be the primary tool for disaster risk reduction. However, the implementation of this tool in post‐communist Central European countries is constrained by the strong position of the central government and a weakened civil society as a heritage of the former communist governments. This study analyses documentary sources to reconstruct social responses to five disastrous flash flood events (1897, 1907, 1925, 1926 and 1927) in northern Bohemia, Czech Republic. The reconstruction of social responses has revealed their complexity and strong component of a participatory approach. The analysis shows that certain historical measures and approaches to recovery from flash floods can be useful for re‐establishing and reinforcing former social patterns in post‐communist transition countries in terms of strategies for disaster risk reduction.
Convergence and divergence in conceptualising and planning the sustainable city: an introduction
Authors: Harris Andrew , Moore Susan
Published: January 2015

This special section navigates the contested terrain of the sustainable city and aims to develop new entry points for interdisciplinary dialogue and research. Six contributions from geography and planning critically engage with the simultaneous convergence of sustainable city visions and universal models of ‘best practice’ and the demonstrable divergence in how these visions and models are conceptualised and adopted in specific urban contexts. The papers unpack the implications of an emphasis on models and modelling of the sustainable city in relation to masterplanning, building assessment, governance, green urbanism, pedagogy and critical urban enquiry.
Right paraduodenal hernia successfully treated with laparoscopic surgery
Authors: Tomino Takahiro , Itoh Shinji , Yoshida Daisuke , Nishida Takahiro , Kawanaka Hirofumi , Ikeda Tetsuo , Kohnoe Shunji , Shirabe Ken , Maehara Yoshihiko
Published: January 2015

A 23‐year‐old Japanese man presented with a history of sudden‐onset right abdominal pain accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Contrast‐enhanced CT showed a large cluster on the right side of the retroperitoneum, with most of the small bowel incarcerated. The patient was diagnosed with small bowel obstruction caused by a right paraduodenal hernia, and emergency laparoscopic surgery was performed. The large retroperitoneal cluster on the right side contained almost all segments of the small bowel, although the incarcerated bowel showed no evidence of volvulus or ischemia. The bowel was reduced, and the hernia orifice was closed. The patient made good progress and was discharged 7 days after surgery. We herein report an acute case of right paraduodenal hernia with small bowel obstruction that was successfully treated with emergency laparoscopic surgery. With an early preoperative diagnosis, laparoscopic surgery is appropriate for the treatment of right paraduodenal hernia.
Laparoendoscopic removal of peroral extrusion of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt
Authors: Mandhan Parkash , Wong Marilyn , Samarakkody Udaya
Published: January 2015

Introduction

Ventriculoperitoneal shunts for hydrocephalic children are known to cause serious complications such as GI perforation. Peroral extrusion of the peritoneal part of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt is very rare, and management could be a challenge.

Materials and Surgical Technique

An 11‐year‐old girl presented with peroral extrusion of the distal end of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt tube. Endoscopy and imaging studies showed that the peritoneal end had perforated the stomach and then extruded from the mouth. We used a surgical technique that combined endoscopy and laparoscopy to manage this rare complication.

Discussion

Peroral extrusion of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt tube occurs secondary to perforation of the upper GI tract. Managing this condition involves removing the shunt tube, attention to the perforated viscus and associated infection. A combination of endoscopy and laparoscopy provided superior views, enabled identification of the site and size of the perforated viscus, and facilitated the uneventful removal of the tube.
Trends in Breastfeeding Initiation in the NICU by Gestational Age in Ohio, 2006–2012
Authors: Kachoria Rashmi , Oza‐Frank Reena
Published: January 2015

Background

While breastfeeding in the United States is on the rise, trends among infants admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) are less known. The objective of this study was to examine trends in breastfeeding initiation among NICU‐admitted infants in Ohio from 2006 to 2012 and to determine differences in breastfeeding initiation trends by gestational age.

Methods

Using Ohio Vital Statistics birth certificate data, the Cochran–Armitage test for trend was used to determine significant trends in breastfeeding by gestational age. Logistic regression was used to examine the association between breastfeeding initiation and gestational age by year.

Results

From 2006 to 2012, 48,758 infants born in Ohio were admitted to the NICU, representing 5.6 percent of all newborns. Breastfeeding among NICU‐admitted infants increased from 53.3 percent in 2006 to 63.8 percent in 2012 (p < 0.01). Increasing, significant trends in breastfeeding were also observed within each gestational age category over the 7 years. In 2011 and 2012, preterm infants were significantly more likely than term infants to be fed breastmilk in the NICU.

Discussion

The gap between breastfeeding initiation among NICU‐admitted and non‐admitted infants appears to be narrowing, particularly for the most extreme gestational ages. While these increasing trends in breastfeeding among the most premature infants are encouraging, nearly 40 percent of mothers of term infants admitted to the NICU, the largest proportion of the NICU population, are still not initiating breastfeeding. More education and support specific to mothers of infants admitted to the NICU is needed.
Selective endothelin A receptor antagonism with sitaxentan reduces neointimal lesion size in a mouse model of intraluminal injury
Authors: Duthie Karolina M , Hadoke Patrick W F , Kirkby Nicholas S , Miller Eileen , Ivy Jessica R , McShane John F , Lim Win Gel , Webb David J
Published: January 2015

Background and Purpose

Endothelin (ET) receptor antagonism reduces neointimal lesion formation in animal models. This investigation addressed the hypothesis that the selective ETA receptor antagonist sitaxentan would be more effective than mixed ETA/B receptor antagonism at inhibiting neointimal proliferation in a mouse model of intraluminal injury.

Experimental Approach

Antagonism of ETA receptors by sitaxentan (1–100 nM) was assessed in femoral arteries isolated from adult, male C57Bl6 mice using isometric wire myography. Neointimal lesion development was induced by intraluminal injury in mice receiving sitaxentan (ETA antagonist; 15 mg·kg−1·day−1), A192621 (ETB antagonist; 30 mg·kg−1·day−1), the combination of both antagonists or vehicle. Treatment began 1 week before, and continued for 28 days after, surgery. Femoral arteries were then harvested for analysis of lesion size and composition.

Key Results

Sitaxentan produced a selective, concentration‐dependent parallel rightward shift of ET‐1‐mediated contraction in isolated femoral arteries. Sitaxentan reduced neointimal lesion size, whereas ETB and combined ETA/B receptor antagonism did not. Macrophage and α‐smooth muscle actin content were unaltered by ET receptor antagonism but sitaxentan reduced the amount of collagen in lesions.

Conclusions and Implications

These results suggest that ETA receptor antagonism would be more effective than combined ETA/ETB receptor antagonism at reducing neointimal lesion formation.
Subjective well‐being: what do adolescents say?
Authors: Navarro Dolors , Montserrat Carme , Malo Sara , González Mònica , Casas Ferran , Crous Gemma
Published: January 2015

The aim of this paper is to analyse how 10‐ to 15‐year‐old adolescents define their own perceptions of well‐being and the factors influencing it at their age. Ten focus groups were organized, two from each age group. One group for each age included the students with the lowest scores in subjective well‐being (SWB) and the other included those with the highest, according to their responses to previously administered psychometric scales. The views of the participating adolescents were explored by means of a content analysis. In general, the children mentioned both positive and negative elements of participating in defining what constitutes well‐being. According to these children, well‐being is related to both affects and attitudes, relations with family and friends being key factors in it. Differences in the information provided reveal some variations according to age and SWB score. Children scoring lower in SWB tend to refer more to relationships with friends and basic needs covered, whereas those scoring higher tend to refer more to family relationships and not having problems. The results of this research can contribute to both social policy design and appraisal as they provide an in‐depth understanding of how SWB works at these ages.
Skin and wound decontamination of multidrug‐resistant bacteria by cold atmospheric plasma coagulation
Authors: Daeschlein Georg , Napp Matthias , Lutze Stine , Arnold Andreas , von Podewils Sebastian , Guembel Denis , Jünger Michael
Published: January 2015

Background and objectives

Novel concepts to limit the spread of multidrug‐resistant bacteria (MDR) are urgently needed. Since treatment with cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) has shown significant antibacterial properties, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the ability of CAP to eliminate MDR‐ compared to non‐MDR‐pathogens in chronic wounds.

Methods

Eleven patients with 18 heavily colonized wounds were treated with a CE‐certified commercial argon‐based CAP source for 10 s/cm2 in one session. The antimicrobial efficacy was assessed by calculating the microbial load before and after treatment.

Results

A single CAP treatment reduced MDR in all wounds. In 14 treatments (63.6 %) and for 16 pathogens (66.7 %), a 100 % reduction of the bacterial load was observed. For 11 of 17 (64.7 %) MDR‐pathogens and for 5 of 7 (71.4 %) other non‐MDR‐pathogens, complete eradication was achieved. The remaining 8 treatments showed reductions of 77.5 ± 18.6 % and the remaining pathogens a reduction of 74.8 ± 25.7 %.

Conclusions

As proof of principle, argon‐based CAP serves as a potent treatment modality that was shown to limit MDR microbial colonization. The possible role of CAP in clinical MDR decontamination must be evaluated in clinical trials with repeated plasma treatment embedded in a comprehensive hygienic decontamination concept.
Cardiometabolic risk profile of participants with prediabetes diagnosed by HbA1c criteria in an urban Hong Kong Chinese population over 40 years of age
Authors: Woo Y. C. , Cheung B. M. Y. , Yeung C. Y. , Lee C. H. , Hui E. Y. L. , Fong C. H. Y. , Tso A. W. K. , Tam S. , Lam K. S. L.
Published: January 2015

Aims

To investigate the usefulness of the additional measurement of HbA1c, compared with performing only the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), in identifying participants at increased cardiometabolic risk, in an urban Chinese population.

Methods

All participants from the fourth visit of the population‐based Hong Kong Cardiovascular Risk Factors Prevalence Study, without known diabetes, were included. All had their glycaemic status assessed by OGTT and HbA1c, according to American Diabetic Association 2010 criteria.

Results

Based on OGTT criteria alone, 3.5% of the study cohort (N = 1300) had diabetes and 19.2% had prediabetes. Based on HbA1c criteria only, 6.2% had diabetes and 61.2% had prediabetes. The measurement of HbA1c, in addition to the OGTT, increased the proportion of participants with diabetes to 7.8% and with prediabetes to 65.3%. Subjects with prediabetes having raised HbA1c but normal glycaemia (N = 600) had waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, fasting glucose, insulin resistance index (HOMA–IR), Gutt Index and Framingham 10‐year cardiovascular risk scores intermediate between those with both normal HbA1c and glycaemia (N = 350), and those with impaired fasting glucose and/or impaired glucose tolerance (N = 249; all P < 0.01).

Conclusion

The measurement of HbA1c in our population, in addition to the OGTT, results in the detection of a large number of participants with prediabetes having raised HbA1c but normal glycaemia who have a cardiometabolic risk profile intermediate between impaired fasting glucose and/or impaired glucose tolerance and normal participants, and would benefit from early lifestyle intervention.
Association between pulse pressure and risk of hospital admissions for cardiovascular events among people with Type 2 diabetes: a population‐based case–control study
Authors: Yu D. , Simmons D.
Published: January 2015

Aim

To investigate the association between pulse pressure and risk of hospitalization for cardiovascular events among people with Type 2 diabetes.

Methods

A population‐based case–control study was carried out using data from medical databases. A total of 588 people with Type 2 diabetes from 18 general practices in Cambridgeshire recorded a first hospitalization for a cardiovascular event between 2009 and 2011, and a total of 2920 age‐matched, gender‐matched and practice‐matched control subjects with Type 2 diabetes were selected based on risk‐set sampling. Pulse pressure was assessed before admission in 2008–2009. Further dose–response relationships between pulse pressure and risks were explored using spline models.

Results

There was a non‐linear relationship between pulse pressure and the risk of hospitalization for a cardiovascular event (P < 0.001 for linearity test). The pulse pressure associated with the lowest risk of hospitalization for a cardiovascular event was 61 (95% CI 57–63) mmHg.

Conclusion

In people with Type 2 diabetes, pulse pressure is a good predictor of risk of hospitalization for cardiovascular events. The risk is lowest with a pulse pressure of 57–63 mmHg.
Biphasic vs basal bolus insulin regimen in Type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Wang C. , Mamza J. , Idris I.
Published: January 2015

Aim

We aim to evaluate the effects of biphasic insulin compared with a basal bolus insulin regimen on glycaemic control, total daily insulin requirements, risk of hypoglycaemia, weight and quality of life in patients with diabetes mellitus.

Methods

MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed and Scopus databases were searched for studies up to November 2013. Interventions that lasted for more than four weeks and were reported in English were considered for the review. Meta‐analysis was performed on eligible studies.

Results

Fifteen randomized controlled trial studies, involving 4384 patients, were included. Greater HbA1c reductions were seen with basal‐bolus compared with biphasic insulin regimens, between‐treatment weighted mean difference (WMD) for baseline‐to‐endpoint changes in HbA1c was –0.2% (95% CI: –0.36 to –0.03) [–2.2 (–3.9, –0.3) mmol/mol]. In non‐insulin naïve (n = 8) patients with Type 2 diabetes, HbA1c reduction was greater in the basal bolus group; WMD = –0.22% (95% CI: –0.42 to –0.02) [–2.4 (–4.6, –0.2) mmol/mol], but in insulin naïve patients (n = 5), HbA1c was equivalent between the two regimens; WMD (–0.15% (95% CI: –0.52 to 0.22) [–1.6 (–5.7, 2.4) mmol/mol]. Total daily insulin requirements and weight were increased with both regimens, whereas hypoglycaemia rates were comparable between the two regimens. Greater HbA1c reduction was observed in the basal bolus group compared with the biphasic regimen at the expense of higher daily insulin requirements and weight gain, but with no greater risk of hypoglycaemia.

Conclusions

Biphasic and basal bolus regimens were equally effective in reducing HbA1c in insulin naïve patients with Type 2 diabetes and both regimens are equally effective for initiating insulin in Type 2 diabetes.
Helping Parents Cope with Suicide Threats: An Approach Based on Nonviolent Resistance
Authors: Omer Haim , Dolberger Dan Isaac
Published: January 2015

Parent training in nonviolent resistance was adapted to deal with situations of suicide threat by children, adolescents, and young adults. The approach aims at reducing the risk potential and the mutual distress surrounding the threat‐interaction. Parent training in nonviolent resistance has been shown to help parents move from helplessness to presence, from isolation to connectedness, from submission to resistance, from escalation to self‐control, and from mutual distancing and hostility to care and support. Those emphases can be crucial for the diminution of suicide risk. Parents show good ability to implement the approach and report gains on various areas over and beyond the reduction in suicide threat. A particular advantage is that the method can be used also in cases where the young person threatening suicide is not willing to cooperate.
Presumptions, Burdens, and Best Interests in Relocation Law
Authors: Thompson Rollie
Published: January 2015

The pure “best interests” approach to relocation law is a failure. It is unpredictable and expensive, increasing conflict and discouraging settlement. The “fundamental questions” proposed by Parkinson and Cashmore in their article will not reform the law. Real reform will require the use of presumptions or burdens to guide best interests. “Presumptions” are not “rules,” but only starting points. No simple presumption “for” or “against” all relocations can be justified, but there are large categories of cases that do warrant presumptions: interim moves, unilateral relocations, shared care, and predominant primary caregivers. The first three involve presumptions against relocation, while the last—the largest category—warrants a presumption that relocation is in the best interests of the child, unless the contrary is proved. There will remain a small minority of in‐between cases where none of these presumptions will operate, recognizing the limits of our general knowledge. It is time to move the relocation reform debate beyond pure “best interests,” to the next stage, to a serious discussion of which cases warrant presumptions, and of what strength.

Key Points for the Family Court Community

Pure best interests approach to relocation law is a failure

Presumptions or burdens needed to reform the law, but not just “for” or “against”

Presumptions are identified for four categories of relocation cases: interim moves, unilateral relocations, shared care, and predominant primary caregivers