bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolated Bacillus subtilis strain 330-2 and its antagonistic genes identified by the removing PCR
Authors: Ahmad Zahoor , Wu Jia , Chen Lulu , Dong Wubei
Published: May 2017

Plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) may trigger tolerance against biotic/abiotic stresses and growth enhancement in plants. In this study, an endophytic bacterial strain from rapeseed was isolated to assess its role in enhancing plant growth and tolerance to abiotic stresses, as well as banded leaf and sheath blight disease in maize. Based on 16S rDNA and BIOLOG test analysis, the 330-2 strain was identified as Bacillus subtilis. The strain produced indole-3-acetic acid, siderophores, lytic enzymes and solubilized different sources of organic/inorganic phosphates and zinc. Furthermore, the strain strongly suppressed the in vitro growth of Rhizoctonia solani AG1-IA, Botrytis cinerea, Fusarium oxysporum, Alternaria alternata, Cochliobolus heterostrophus, and Nigrospora oryzae. The strain also significantly increased the seedling growth (ranging 14–37%) of rice and maize. Removing PCR analysis indicated that 114 genes were differentially expressed, among which 10%, 32% and 10% were involved in antibiotic production (e.g., srfAA, bae, fen, mln, and dfnI), metabolism (e.g., gltA, pabA, and ggt) and transportation of nutrients (e.g., fhu, glpT, and gltT), respectively. In summary, these results clearly indicate the effectiveness and mechanisms of B. subtilis strain 330-2 in enhancing plant growth, as well as tolerance to biotic/abiotic stresses, which suggests that the strain has great potential for commercialization as a vital biological control agent.
Exendin-4 Exhibits Enhanced Anti-tumor Effects in Diabetic Mice
Authors: He Lan , Law Priscilla T. Y. , Wong Chun Kwok , Chan Juliana C. N. , Chan Paul K. S.
Published: May 2017

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is associated with increased risk of cancers. In this connection, we previously demonstrated the promoting effect of diabetes on HPV-associated carcinogenesis using a xenograft model in db/db diabetic mice. The underlying mechanism of this observation might be partly contributed by dysregulated immune response in diabetes. In this study, we hypothesized that the impaired anti-tumor immune response in diabetic status could be modulated by exendin-4, a glucagon-like protein receptor agonist which exhibits anti-diabetic effects. We inoculated 10-week old db/db mice with 2 × 107 CUP-1 cells (Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)-16 E7 transfected continuous cell line) subcutaneously underneath the scruff, and treated mice with high (30 nmol/kg) or low (10 nmol/kg) dose of exendin-4 for 13 days. Compared with control groups, exendin-4 suppressed subcutaneous tumor growth in a dose-dependent manner, accompanied by increased interferon (IFN)-γ secreting CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL)/Foxp3+ regulatory T cell (Treg) ratio as well as Th1 proinflammatory cytokines IFN-γ and IL-2. Collectively, these findings suggested an anti-tumor effect of exendin-4 in diabetic conditions, which might be resulted from direct immunomodulation.
The Beneficial Role of Mobility for the Emergence of Innovation
Authors: Armano Giuliano , Javarone Marco Alberto
Published: May 2017

Innovation is a key ingredient for the evolution of several systems, including social and biological ones. Focused investigations and lateral thinking may lead to innovation, as well as serendipity and other random discovery processes. Some individuals are talented at proposing innovation (say innovators), while others at deeply exploring proposed novelties, at getting further insights on a theory, or at developing products, services, and so on (say developers). This separation in terms of innovators and developers raises an issue of paramount importance: under which conditions a system is able to maintain innovators? According to a simple model, this work investigates the evolutionary dynamics that characterize the emergence of innovation. In particular, we consider a population of innovators and developers, in which agents form small groups whose composition is crucial for their payoff. The latter depends on the heterogeneity of the formed groups, on the amount of innovators they include, and on an award-factor that represents the policy of the system for promoting innovation. Under the hypothesis that a “mobility” effect may support the emergence of innovation, we compare the equilibria reached by our population in different cases. Results confirm the beneficial role of “mobility”, and the emergence of further interesting phenomena.
Structure and function of a broad-specificity chitin deacetylase from Aspergillus nidulans FGSC A4
Authors: Liu Zhanliang , Gay Laurie M. , Tuveng Tina R. , Agger Jane W. , Westereng Bjørge , Mathiesen Geir , Horn Svein J. , Vaaje-Kolstad Gustav , van Aalten Daan M. F. , Eijsink Vincent G. H.
Published: May 2017

Enzymatic conversion of chitin, a β-1,4 linked polymer of N-acetylglucosamine, is of major interest in areas varying from the biorefining of chitin-rich waste streams to understanding how medically relevant fungi remodel their chitin-containing cell walls. Although numerous chitinolytic enzymes have been studied in detail, relatively little is known about enzymes capable of deacetylating chitin. We describe the structural and functional characterization of a 237 residue deacetylase (AnCDA) from Aspergillus nidulans FGSC A4. AnCDA acts on chito-oligomers, crystalline chitin, chitosan, and acetylxylan, but not on peptidoglycan. The Km and kcat of AnCDA for the first deacetylation of penta-N-acetyl-chitopentaose are 72 µM and 1.4 s−1, respectively. Combining mass spectrometry and analyses of acetate release, it was shown that AnCDA catalyses mono-deacetylation of (GlcNAc)2 and full deacetylation of (GlcNAc)3–6 in a non-processive manner. Deacetylation of the reducing end sugar was much slower than deacetylation of the other sugars in chito-oligomers. These enzymatic characteristics are discussed in the light of the crystal structure of AnCDA, providing insight into how the chitin deacetylase may interact with its substrates. Interestingly, AnCDA activity on crystalline chitin was enhanced by a lytic polysaccharide monooxygenase that increases substrate accessibility by oxidative cleavage of the chitin chains.
Alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonist promotes retinal ganglion cell function via modulating GABAergic presynaptic activity in a chronic glaucomatous model
Authors: Zhou Xujiao , Cheng Yun , Zhang Rong , Li Gang , Yang Boqi , Zhang Shenghai , Wu Jihong
Published: May 2017

Alpha-7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7-nAChR) agonists can prevent glutamate-induced excitotoxicity in cultured retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). However, the neuroprotective effects and the mechanism of action of PNU-282987, an α7-nAChR agonist, in a chronic in vivo rat glaucoma model are poorly understood. We found that elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) downregulated retinal α7-nAChR expression. Electroretinography revealed that the amplitude of the photopic negative response (PhNR) decreased in parallel with the loss of RGCs caused by elevated IOP. PNU-282987 enhanced RGC viability and function and decreased terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL)-positive signals in RGCs. Patch-clamp recordings revealed differences in the baseline frequencies and decay times of the miniature GABAergic inhibitory postsynaptic currents (mIPSCs) of RGCs between control and glaucomatous retinal slices. The results of western blotting and immunostaining showed that glutamic acid decarboxylase 65/67 and GABA deficits persisted in glaucomatous retinas and that these deficits were reversed by PNU-282987. Patch-clamp recordings also showed that PNU-282987 significantly increased the frequency and amplitude of the GABAergic mIPSCs of RGCs. The protective effects of PNU-292987 were blocked by intravitreal administration of selective GABAA receptor antagonists. The modulation of GABAergic synaptic transmission by PNU-282987 causes de-excitation of ganglion cell circuits and suppresses excitotoxic processes.
A vacuum ultraviolet photoionization study on high-temperature decomposition of JP-10 (exo-tetrahydrodicyclopentadiene)
Authors: Zhao Long , Yang Tao , Kaiser Ralf I. , Troy Tyler P. , Xu Bo , Ahmed Musahid , Alarcon Juan , Belisario-Lara Daniel , Mebel Alexander M. , Zhang Yan , Cao Chuangchuang , Zou Jiabiao
Published: May 2017

High-temperature pyrolysis of JP-10 in flow reactors were performed both experimentally and theoretically. Dozens of products were detected and the decomposition pathways of JP-10 were discussed.
Oxidative remediation of 4-methylcyclohexanemethanol (MCHM) and propylene glycol phenyl ether (PPh). Evidence of contaminant repair reaction pathways
Authors: Zhao Cen , Peller Julie R. , Mezyk Stephen P. , Kamat Prashant V. , O’Shea Kevin E.
Published: May 2017

Rate constants and reaction efficiencies were determined for HO˙-mediated reactions for 4-methylcyclohexanemethanol and propylene glycol phenyl ether to simulate contaminant remediation in surface waters.
Microwave absorbing property optimization of starlike ZnO/reduced graphene oxide doped by ZnO nanocrystal composites
Authors: Feng Wei , Wang Yaming , Chen Junchen , Guo Lixin , Ouyang Jiahu , Jia Dechang , Zhou Yu
Published: May 2017

The microwave absorption properties of a nanocomposite containing star-like ZnO and reduced graphene oxide doped by ZnO nanocrystals are optimized.
The mechanism of ammonium bisulfate formation and decomposition over V/WTi catalysts for NH3-selective catalytic reduction at various temperatures
Authors: Li Chenxu , Shen Meiqing , Yu Tie , Wang Jianqiang , Wang Jun , Zhai Yanping
Published: May 2017

The process of ABS poisoning over V/WTi at low temperature.
Construction of WO3–g-C3N4 composites as efficient photocatalysts for pharmaceutical degradation under visible light
Authors: Zhu Wenyu , Sun Faqian , Goei Ronn , Zhou Yan
Published: May 2017

Simple construction of WO3–g-C3N4 Z-scheme heterojunctions as efficient photocatalysts to degrade sulfamethoxazole, which is one of the most commonly used pharmaceuticals.
Regioselective 6-endo-dig iodocyclization: an accessible approach for iodo-benzo[a]phenazines
Authors: Kumar Sonu , Mujahid Mohammad , Verma Akhilesh K.
Published: May 2017

A tandem approach for the synthesis of iodo benzo[a]phenazine derivatives using molecular iodine has been described under mild reaction conditions.
Simply packaging Ni nanoparticles inside SBA-15 channels by co-impregnation for dry reforming of methane
Authors: Qiu Songbai , Zhang Qiao , Lv Wei , Wang Tiejun , Zhang Qi , Ma Longlong
Published: May 2017

The highly dispersed Ni nanoparticles inside SBA-15 channels (Ni@SBA-15) were synthesized simply by co-impregnation using ethylene glycol (EG).
Characterization of the in vitro effects of gallic acid-grafted-chitooligosaccharides in the suppression of AGS human gastric cancer cell proliferation
Authors: Ryu BoMi , Kim So-Yeon , Vo Thanh-Sang , Kim Won-Suk , Kim Dong Gyu , Kim Se-Kwon
Published: May 2017

G-COS was compared with COS for its influence on the proliferation of AGS human gastric cancer cells, showing an increase in the accumulation of cells in the sub-G1 phase and early apoptosis.
Hydrothermal synthesis and formation mechanism of the anatase nanocrystals with co-exposed high-energy {001}, {010} and [111]-facets for enhanced photocatalytic performance
Authors: Niu Xianjun , Du Yi-en , Liu Yufang , Qi Hongxue , An Jing , Yang Xiaojing , Feng Qi
Published: May 2017

Anatase TiO2 nanocrystals with different morphologies and co-exposed high-energy {001}, {010} and [111]-facets were prepared through the hydrothermal treatment of tetratitanate HTO.
The bakery of high-end sorption carbons: sugar–urea doughs as processable precursors for functional carbons
Authors: Rothe Regina , Antonietti Markus , Fechler Nina
Published: May 2017

Porous nitrogen-doped carbon monoliths from processable doughs of liquid sugar-urea mixtures with salt and cellulose as porogen and filler, respectively.
Tomographic imaging of pore networks and connectivity of surfactant-directed mesoporous zeolites
Authors: Lee Seungyeop , Jo Changbum , Ryoo Ryong
Published: May 2017

The shape and connectivity of mesopores in zeolite nanosponges were examined by tomography of supported platinum nanowires fabricated along mesopores.
RhBMP-2 loaded MBG/PEGylated poly(glycerol sebacate) composite scaffolds for rapid bone regeneration
Authors: Chai Yanjun , Lin Dan , Ma Yifan , Yuan Yuan , Liu Changsheng
Published: May 2017

An rhBMP-2 loaded MBG/PEGS composite scaffold with optimal performances and rapid osteoinductive capacity was successfully designed and fabricated.
Lanthanide-doped LaOBr nanocrystals: controlled synthesis, optical spectroscopy and bioimaging
Authors: Wang Huiqi , Tu Datao , Xu Jin , Shang Xiaoying , Hu Ping , Li Renfu , Zheng Wei , Chen Zhuo , Chen Xueyuan
Published: May 2017

A new bioprobe based on lanthanide-doped LaOBr NCs exhibiting distinct upconversion/downshifting luminescence was explored and demonstrated for in vitro cancer cell imaging.
Advances in Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Gialloreti Leonardo , Curatolo Paolo , Mazzone Luigi
Published: May 2017

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) appears to have a dramatic increase over the last twenty years and according to the latest estimates, 1 out of 68 children has been diagnosed with this disorder. In this context, it is crucial to provide clinicians with the most updated information on the genetic, epigenetic, and environmental understanding of ASD, as well as to provide the best scientific evidence in order to build successful therapeutic strategies for the patients.
5-Jahres-Follow-Up der multizentrischen Evaluationsstudie zur medizinisch-beruflichen Rehabilitation (MEmbeR)
Authors: Schmidt S. , Boltzmann M. , Brunotte M. , Sailer M. , Kiesel J. , Karbe H. , Harms J. , Busch C. , Eckhardt R. , Spranger M. , Rixecker D. , Siepmann M. , Weber R. , Hesselschwerdt H.-J. , Scheidtmann K. , Köhler M. , Müller C. , Platz T. , Specht U. , Schmelter T. , Hoff-Emden H. , Urbach D. , Lecheler J. , Rollnik J.
Published: May 2017

Die medizinisch-berufliche Rehabilitation (mbR) stellt in Deutschland ein Bindeglied zwischen medizinischer und beruflicher Rehabilitation dar und hat die berufliche Teilhabe als primäres Ziel. Die aktuelle Studie stellt die berufliche Wiedereingliederungsquote 5 Jahre nach mbR vor und untersucht, welche Faktoren bereits direkt nach der mbR eine langfristige berufliche Wiedereingliederung prognostizieren können.

Zur Evaluation der Nachhaltigkeit der mbR wurde ein Follow-Up mit ehemaligen Studienteilnehmern (n=105) der multizentrischen, prospektiven Evaluationsstudie zur medizinisch-beruflichen Rehabilitation (MEmbeR) zur aktuellen beruflichen Situation durchgeführt.

5 Jahre nach mbR konnten immer noch 76% der aktuellen Studienteilnehmer dem ersten Arbeitsmarkt zugeordnet werden. Die Return-to-work-Rate lag bei 57%. Prognostische Langzeitfaktoren für eine erfolgreiche Integration konnten nicht eindeutig ermittelt werden. Ein niedriger Grad der Behinderung, eine uneingeschränkte Gruppenfähigkeit sowie eine uneingeschränkte Urteils- und Entscheidungsfähigkeit könnten jedoch Faktoren darstellen, die sich günstig auf eine Erwerbsprognose auswirken.

Der hohe Anteil an Rehabilitanden, die 5 Jahre nach mbR dem ersten Arbeitsmarkt zur Verfügung stehen (76%), spricht für das Konzept der mbR. Zur Abklärung von Einflussfaktoren einer langfristigen beruflichen Wiedereingliederung sind jedoch weitere Studien erforderlich.
Occurrent states
Authors: Bartlett Gary
Published: May 2017

The distinction between occurrent and non-occurrent mental states is frequently appealed to by contemporary philosophers, but it has never been explicated in any significant detail. In the literature, two accounts of the distinction are commonly presupposed (and occasionally stated explicitly). One is that occurrent states are conscious states. The other is that non-occurrent states are dispositional states, and thus that occurrent states are manifestations of dispositions. I argue that neither of these accounts is adequate, and therefore that another account is needed. I propose that occurrent states are active states.
The flavonoid derivative 4′-nitro-6-hydroxyflavone suppresses the activity of HNF4α and stimulates the degradation of HNF4α protein through the activation of AMPK
Authors: Inoue Jun , Ikeda Shiori , Kanayama Tomohiko , Sato Ryuichiro
Published: May 2017

Hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α (HNF4α) is a nuclear receptor that regulates the expression of genes involved in a number of critical metabolic pathways. The modulation of HNF4α activity is thought to be a promising drug target pathway for hyperlipidemia. To identify compounds that reduce the activity of HNF4α, we conducted luciferase reporter assays using the promoter region of microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP) gene, which contains an HNF4α-responsive element. Using this system, we show here that the flavonoid derivative 4′-nitro-6-hydroxyflavone (NOHF) suppresses MTP promoter activity. Treatment with NOHF caused a decrease in the expression of the HNF4α target gene. We also identified that NOHF triggers the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and accelerates the degradation of HNF4α protein. Knock-down of AMPK diminishes the effect of NOHF. These results indicate that NOHF is an AMPK activator and attenuates the transcriptional activity of HNF4α, at least in part, by accelerating HNF4α protein degradation.
A comparison of solute clearance and ultrafiltration volume in peritoneal dialysis with total or fractional (50%) intraperitoneal volume exchange with the same dialysate flow rate.
Authors: Aasarød K , Widerøe T E , Flakne S C
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND: The most efficient way to perform automated peritoneal dialysis (APD) has not yet been defined. Tidal peritoneal dialysis (TPD) has been claimed to be more efficient than traditional intermittent peritoneal dialysis (IPD), but few comparative studies have been done keeping dialysate flow the same in the two treatment techniques. METHODS: Six patients were treated with 10, 14 and 24 litres total dialysis fluid volume during 9 h (flow rate 18.5, 25.9 and 44.4 ml/min), receiving the treatments both as IPD and TPD. Glucose concentration in the fluid was held constant during all treatments. Transperitoneal clearances (ml/min) for urea, creatinine and uric acid and ultrafiltration volume was calculated, and comparisons made between TPD and IPD. The total intraperitoneal dwell time was calculated for each treatment session. A peritoneal equilibration test was also done for each patient. RESULTS: The ratio of the creatinine concentration in dialysate to the concentration in plasma at 4 h obtained with the peritoneal equilibration test (PET) averaged 0.77 (range 0.69-0.82). Urea clearance was higher for IPD than for TPD with 10 litres: 14.3 +/- 2.4 and 13.3 +/- 2.7 (P = 0.0092). For 14 and 24 litres urea clearance for IPD and TPD was 16.9 +/- 2.3 and 15.9 +/- 3.5 (n.s.) and 20.9 +/- 3.6 and 19.9 +/- 5.6 (n.s.) respectively. Creatinine clearance was higher for IPD than for TPD with 10 litres: 9.6 +/- 1.3 and 8.9 +/- 1.3 (P = 0.0002). For 14 and 24 litres creatinine clearance for IPD and TPD was 11.0 +/- 0.7 and 9.9 +/- 2.0 (n.s.) and 12.3 +/- 1.2 and 12.4 +/- 2.2 (n.s.) respectively. Uric acid clearance was higher for IPD than for TPD with 10 litres: 8.4 +/- 1.3 and 7.7 +/- 1.0 (P = 0.0054). For 14 and 24 litres uric acid clearance for IPD and TPD was 9.3 +/- 1.7 and 8.9 +/- 2.2 (n.s.) and 11.3 +/- 2.9 and 10.6 +/- 2.6 (n.s.) respectively. IPD gave significantly higher ultrafiltration volume (ml) than IPD for both 10 and 14 litres: 944 +/- 278 and 783 +/- 200 (P = 0.0313) and 1147 +/- 202 and 937 +/- 211 (P = 0.0478). For 24 litres there was no significant difference between IPD and TPD: 1220 +/- 224 and 1253 +/- 256. CONCLUSION: With the lowest dialysate flow rate (18.5 ml/min), solute clearance and ultrafiltration volume was higher on IPD than on TPD. With the intermediate flow rate (25.9 ml/min) the ultrafiltration volume was higher on IPD, but no difference was found for solute clearance. With the highest flow rate (44.4 ml/min) there was no difference neither for ultrafiltration nor for solute clearances.
Developing a Real-Time PCR Assay for Direct Identification and Quantification of Pratylenchus penetrans in Soil
Authors: Baidoo Richard , Yan Guiping , Nagachandrabose Seenivasan , Skantar Andrea M.
Published: May 2017

The root-lesion nematode Pratylenchus penetrans is a major pathogen of potato worldwide. Yield losses may be exacerbated by interaction with the fungus Verticillium dahliae in the potato early dying disease complex. Accurate identification and quantification of P. penetrans prior to planting are essential for developing effective integrated pest control measures. However, distinction between P. penetrans and other Pratylenchus spp. based on morphology is a tedious task. A SYBR Green I-based qPCR assay was developed to discriminate, identify, and quantify P. penetrans in field soil. P. penetrans-specific qPCR primers were designed from the D2-D3 region of the 28S rDNA. The specificity of the assay was evaluated using eight isolates of P. penetrans populations and 31 isolates of other nematode species. A standard curve relating threshold cycle and log values of nematode number was generated from artificially infested soils. There was a high correlation between the P. penetrans numbers artificially added to soil or estimated from naturally infested field soils by conventional methods, and the numbers quantified using the qPCR assay. Grinding the field soil prior to DNA extraction improved P. penetrans detection from soil. The qPCR assay will not only be useful for differentiating P. penetrans from mixed populations of Pratylenchus spp., but also for efficient detection and quantification of P. penetrans from field soil. The assay requires no expertise in nematode taxonomy and morphology, and may serve as a useful diagnostic tool in research, diagnostic labs, and extension services for pest management.
Resistance to Bean common mosaic necrosis virus Conferred by the bc-1 Gene Affects Systemic Spread of the Virus in Common Bean
Authors: Feng Xue , Guzmán Pablo , Myers James R. , Karasev Alexander V.
Published: May 2017

Bean common mosaic necrosis virus (BCMNV) isolates belong to two pathogroups (PG), PG-III and PG-VI, which are distinguished in common bean due to the inability of the PG-III isolates of BCMNV to overcome the two recessive resistance alleles bc-1 and bc-12. The biological and molecular basis of this distinction between PG-III and PG-VI isolates of BCMNV is not known. Here, three isolates of BCMNV were typed biologically on a set of 12 bean differentials and molecularly through whole-genome sequencing. Two isolates (1755b and TN1a) were assigned to PG-VI and one isolate (NL8-CA) was assigned to PG-III. Isolate NL8-CA (PG-III) induced only local necrosis on inoculated leaves in ‘Top Crop’ and ‘Jubila’ bean harboring the I gene and the bc-1 allele, whereas isolates TN1, TN1a, and 1755b (all PG-VI) induced rapid whole-plant necrosis (WPN) in Top Crop 7 to 14 days postinoculation, and severe systemic necrosis but not WPN in Jubila 3 to 5 weeks postinoculation. In ‘Redland Greenleaf C’ expressing bc-1 and ‘Redland Greenleaf B’ expressing bc-12 alleles, isolate NL8-CA was able to systemically infect only a small proportion of upper uninoculated leaves (less than 13 and 3%, respectively). The whole genomes of isolates 1755b, TN1a, and NL8-CA were sequenced and sequence analysis revealed that, despite the overall high nucleotide sequence identity between PG-III and PG-VI isolates (approximately 96%), two areas of the BCMNV genome in the P1/HC-Pro and HC-Pro/P3 cistrons appeared to be more divergent between these two pathotypes of BCMNV. The data suggest that the phenotypic differences among PG-III and PG-VI isolates of BCMNV in common bean cultivars from host resistance groups 2, 3, and 9 carrying bc-1 alleles were related to the impaired systemic movement of the PG-III isolates to the upper, uninoculated leaves, and also suggest a role of the recessive bc-1 gene in interfering with systemic spread of BCMNV.
Cutaneous Plasmacytosis: A Clinicopathologic Study of a Series of Cases and Their Treatment Outcomes
Authors: Han Xiuhui Debra , Lee Siong See Joyce , Tan Suat Hoon , Chong Wei-Sheng , Ng See Ket , Ooi Melissa Gaik Ming , Goh Chee Leok
Published: May 2017

Introduction:

Cutaneous plasmacytosis (CP) is a rare skin disorder characterized by multiple reddish brown nodules with polyclonal plasma cell proliferation. It has most often been reported to affect the trunk but is also known to affect the face and extremities in adults and is predominantly seen in Asians. The etiology is poorly understood, and there is no consensus on treatment methods.

Methods:

Five cases diagnosed to have CP were collated from our institution. Their clinicopathologic features and treatment outcomes were reviewed.

Results:

Four of the 5 patients presented with lesions that affected multiple sites of the body including the trunk, axillae, face, and limbs. The remaining patient had lesions localized to his axillae. The lesions were generally asymptomatic. All patients had hypergammaglobulinaemia but only one had a faint monoclonal band detected on immunofixation. Common findings in the biopsy results for all patients were perivascular plasma cell infiltrates without light chain restriction on kappa/lambda staining, as well as mast cell infiltrates. Partial remission of cutaneous lesions was observed in 3 of the patients, with 2 of them responding well to psoralen and ultraviolet A radiation therapy.

Conclusion:

CP presents with distinctive clinical features and characteristic histological features including polyclonal perivascular plasma cell infiltrates. The axilla seems to be a frequent and characteristic site of involvement and may be a useful clinical clue to the condition. In the management of patients with CP, it is important to exclude secondary causes of plasmacytic infiltrates. While there are no clearly established treatment modalities for CP, psoralen and ultraviolet A radiation therapy may be a viable option in view of the clinical improvement observed in our patients who received it.
Commensal bacterial modulation of the host immune response to ameliorate pain in a murine model of chronic prostatitis
Authors: Murphy Stephen F. , Schaeffer Anthony J. , Done Joseph D. , Quick Marsha L. , Acar Utkucan , Thumbikat Praveen
Published: May 2017

The human commensal microflora plays an essential role in modulating the immune response to control homeostasis. Staphylococcus epidermidis, a commensal bacterium most commonly associated with the skin exerts such effects locally, modulating local immune responses during inflammation and preventing superinfection by pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus. Although the prostate is considered by many to be sterile, multiple investigations have shown that small numbers of gram-positive bacterial species such as S. epidermidis can be isolated from the expressed prostatic secretions of both healthy and diseased men. Chronic pelvic pain syndrome is a complex syndrome with symptoms including pain and lower urinary tract dysfunction. It has an unknown etiology and limited effective treatments but is associated with modulation of prostate immune responses. Chronic pelvic pain syndrome can be modeled using murine experimental prostatitis (EAP), where CD4+ve IL17A+ve T cells have been shown to play a critical role in disease orchestration and development of pelvic tactile allodynia. Here, we report that intraurethral instillation of a specific S. epidermidis strain (designated NPI [non–pain inducing]), isolated from the expressed prostatic secretion of a healthy human male, into EAP-treated mice reduced the pelvic tactile allodynia responses and increased CD4+ve IL17A+ve T-cell numbers associated with EAP. Furthermore, a cell wall constituent of NPI, lipoteichoic acid, specifically recapitulates these effects and mediates increased expression of CTLA4-like ligands PDL1 and PDL2 on prostatic CD11b+ve antigen-presenting cells. These results identify a new potential therapeutic role for commensal S. epidermidis NPI lipoteichoic acid in the treatment of prostatitis-associated pain.
Effects of a Nurse-Led Phone Follow-up Education Program Based on the Self-efficacy Among Patients With Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Zhou Yan , Liao Jiali , Feng Fangming , Ji Mengting , Zhao Chunyan , Wang Xiaofang
Published: May 2017

Background:

The integration of self-efficacy (SE) theory within a nurse-led telephone follow-up education program (NP-FEP) has not been extensively evaluated for patients with cardiovascular disease.

Objectives:

The aim of this study is to determine the effectiveness of an NP-FEP in improving SE (primary outcome) and achieving goals related to cardiovascular risk (secondary outcome) for patients with cardiovascular disease.

Methods:

In June and July 2013, a total of 403 patients with cardiovascular disease in Shanghai were randomized into the intervention and control groups. Personalized end goals were established for improving cardiovascular risk for each patient. The control group received conventional follow-up education, whereas the intervention group was contacted by telephone 11 times over a 6-month period with staged goals developed based on SE theory. Self-efficacy scores and goals for reducing cardiovascular risk were assessed at baseline, at the end of the 6-month intervention, and 12 months after enrollment.

Results:

The SE scores in both groups increased at 6 months and decreased slightly at 12 months. The baseline SE scores were similar between the groups (P > .05), but the average SE scores were increased more for the intervention group than for the control group at 6 (P < .05) and 12 (P < .05) months. In addition, the final goal achievement rates for the intervention group were significantly higher than for the control group (P < .05). The difference between the 2 groups was reflected by differences in cardiac disease risk factors defined by the World Health Organization.

Conclusion:

The NP-FEP improved SE and facilitated achievement of goals related to risk factors in patients with cardiovascular disease for at least 1 year.
The Impact of Nurse Staffing on In-Hospital Mortality of Stroke Patients in Korea
Authors: Chung Wankyo , Sohn Min
Published: May 2017

Background:

Stroke is one of the leading causes of death in Korea, and a well-qualified, adequate nursing force achieves better patient outcomes.

Study Purposes:

This study examined the association between nurse staffing and in-hospital mortality among stroke patients in a nationally representative sample.

Methods:

This cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted using 2009 National Health Insurance claims data of stroke patients admitted to variously sized Korean hospitals. The data included patient (individual and clinical) and hospital characteristics. Mortality was measured using crude in-hospital mortality rates; nurse staffing was expressed as number of registered nurses per 100 beds. Logistic regression was used to study the association between nurse staffing and patient mortality during hospitalization, after adjusting for related factors.

Results:

The data of 11 819 stroke inpatients from 615 hospitals were analyzed. Mean patient age was 66.9 ± 13.1 years, 47.5% were women, 77.4% were ischemic patients, and 20.3% underwent surgery. The crude in-hospital mortality rate was 5.5%. Nurse staffing was found to be negatively related to mortality (odds ratio, 0.988; 95% confidence interval, 0.977–0.999), after controlling for major confounders, such as comorbidities, physician-to-bed ratio, and medical costs.

Conclusion:

Policies to educate sufficient numbers of nurses and retain them in the field are warranted, especially because medical-cost containment has become a dominant concern in most countries. Further studies are needed to understand the mechanisms and other protective roles of nurse staffing to ensure long-term health outcomes after hospital discharge.
Variables Related to Communication About Prognosis Between Nurses and Patients at Heart Failure Clinics in Sweden and the Netherlands
Authors: van der Wal Martje H.L. , Hjelmfors Lisa , Mårtensson Jan , Friedrichsen Maria , Strömberg Anna , Jaarsma Tiny
Published: May 2017

Background:

In contrast to recommendations in recent guidelines, prognosis is not optimally discussed with patients with heart failure (HF). Reasons for not doing so can be related to both patient and provider characteristics.

Purpose:

The purpose of the study was to explore which patient- and nurse-related variables influence discussing prognosis with patients at an HF clinic.

Method:

Data from a previous survey on attitudes and clinical practice of HF nurses on discussing prognosis that was conducted in Sweden and the Netherlands were combined with data from a registration on topics that nurses discussed with their patients during a prespecified week at the HF clinic. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to assess which variables are related to discussing prognosis.

Results:

A total of 275 HF nurses (mean age, 49 years) and data of 1633 patients with HF (mean age, 71 years) were included in the study. Prognosis was discussed with 42% of all patients during the visit at the HF clinic. Patients with whom prognosis was discussed were more often in New York Heart Association classes III to IV (odds ratio [OR], 1.81; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.44–2.26). Nurses discussing prognosis reported more knowledge on the topic (OR, 1.71; 95% CI, 1.36–2.16) and discussed more topics with the patient (OR, 1.27; 95% CI, 1.21–1.32). Dutch HF nurses were more likely to discuss prognosis compared with their Swedish colleagues (OR, 1.83; 95% CI, 1.43–2.33).

Conclusions:

Discussing prognosis with patients with HF by nurses at the HF clinic is related to the characteristics of patients and HF nurses. Future interventions to improve communications about prognosis therefore should have a broad approach.
The Monthly Cycle of Hypoglycemia
Authors: Basu Sanjay , Berkowitz Seth A. , Seligman Hilary
Published: May 2017

Background:

Multipayer initiatives have sought to address social determinants of health, such as food insecurity, by linking primary care patients to social services. It remains unclear whether such social determinants contribute to avoidable short-term health care costs.

Objectives:

We sought to quantify costs and mitigating factors for the increased risk of hypoglycemia at the end of each month among low-income Americans, a phenomenon related to exhaustion of food budgets.

Research Design:

We used claims data on 595,770 commercially insured American adults aged 19 through 64 years old from 2004 through 2015 to estimate the risks and costs of emergency room visits and inpatient hospitalizations for hypoglycemia during the last week of each month versus prior weeks.

Results:

Although persons with household incomes greater than the national median did not experience a monthly cycle of hypoglycemia, those with incomes less than the national median had an odds ratio of 1.07 (95% confidence interval, 1.02–1.12; P=0.005) for emergency room visits or inpatient hospitalizations for hypoglycemia during the last week of each month, compared with earlier weeks. The risk of end-of-the-month hypoglycemia was mitigated to statistical insignificance during a period of increased federal nutrition program benefits from 2009 through 2013. Eliminating the monthly cycle of hypoglycemia among commercially insured nonelderly adults would be expected to avert $54.1 million per year (95% confidence interval, $0.8–$204.0) in emergency department and inpatient hospitalization costs.

Conclusions:

Addressing the end-of-the-month increase in hypoglycemia risk among lower-income populations may avert substantial costs from emergency department visits and inpatient hospitalizations.
Editorial boards of accounting journals: gender diversity and internationalisation
Authors: Dhanani Alpa , Jones Michael John
Published: May 2017

Purpose

Editorial boards of academic journals represent a key institutional mechanism in the governance and functioning of the academic community. Board members play an important role in knowledge production and development of the discipline. The purpose of this paper is to enquire into the diversity characteristics of boards of accounting journals.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on a diversity framework that distinguishes between societal diversity and value of diversity, the paper examines two board characteristics: gender diversity and internationalisation. Moreover, it examines the influence of three journal and two editor characteristics on board diversity and analyses trends over time.

Findings

On gender, overall board trends are consistent with societal diversity and value of diversity: boards reflect the gender profile of senior academics. Further, female representation on boards is broadly consistent across the different journal nationalities; has improved over time; has experienced a convergence in “gender sensitive” sub-disciplines; and is influenced by female editorship. However, inequities appear to be present at the highest level: women appear to be less well represented than men as editors and women also have a lower representation on boards of higher ranked journals than on those of lower ranked journals. On internationalisation, once again, overall trends broadly reflect societal diversity and value at diversity. However, international scholars are less well represented on 4* boards than on 2* and 3* boards and on US boards than on Australian and UK boards. Further, there are signs of weakening US dominance in non-US journals.

Originality/value

Drawing on the diversity framework, this is the first study to comprehensively examine gender diversity and internationalisation of accounting boards.
An empirical analysis of user behaviour on multilingual information retrieval
Authors: Si Li , Pan Qiuyu , Zhuang Xiaozhe
Published: May 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to understand user information behaviours when they perform multilingual information retrieval. It also offers reference for the development of multilingual information retrieval systems and relevant service platforms.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors designed an experiment on multilingual information retrieval with WorldWideScience, utilized Camtasia studio7 (a screen capturing and recording tool) to record overall operational processes of subjects and collected participants’ thought processes with think-aloud protocols. Meanwhile, a questionnaire survey and interviews were used to examine the subjects’ background information, their feelings for the experiment and their ideas about the experimental platform, respectively. Thirty-two valid data points were obtained by 41 subjects.

Findings

The users preferred their own language for retrieval. Most users from social science chose general search or advanced search freely according to the tasks. The majority of the participants selected key words directly from the tasks as search terms. Doctoral candidates were more likely to construct a search query with logic symbols. Translation tools were utilized for assisting retrieval and solving doubts of translation. When facing obstacles, users stayed on the original web page to explore continually, followed by back to homepage.

Originality/value

This paper provides a study of user behaviour through investigating how users behave on the whole process of retrieving multilingual information. The findings offer advice for optimizing the function of multilingual information retrieval systems and service platforms.
A cell-based smoothed point interpolation method (CS-PIM) for 2D thermoelastic problems
Authors: Liu Yijun , Zhang Guiyong , Lu Huan , Zong Zhi
Published: May 2017

Purpose

Due to the strong reliance on element quality, there exist some inherent shortcomings of the traditional finite element method (FEM). The model of FEM behaves overly stiff, and the solutions of automated generated linear elements are generally of poor accuracy about especially gradient results. The proposed cell-based smoothed point interpolation method (CS-PIM) aims to improve the results accuracy of the thermoelastic problems via properly softening the overly-stiff stiffness.

Design/methodology/approach

This novel approach is based on the newly developed G space and weakened weak (w2) formulation, and of which shape functions are created using the point interpolation method and the cell-based gradient smoothing operation is conducted based on the linear triangular background cells.

Findings

Owing to the property of softened stiffness, the present method can generally achieve better accuracy and higher convergence results (especially for the temperature gradient and thermal stress solutions) than the FEM does by using the simplest linear triangular background cells, which has been examined by extensive numerical studies.

Practical implications

The CS-PIM is capable of producing more accurate results of temperature gradients as well as thermal stresses with the automated generated and unstructured background cells, which make it a better candidate for solving practical thermoelastic problems.

Originality/value

It is the first time that the novel CS-PIM was further developed for solving thermoelastic problems, which shows its tremendous potential for practical implications.
Surface temperature of electronic assemblies equipped with tilted and low-powered QFN64 subjected to free convection
Authors: Baïri Abderrahmane , Ortega Hermoso Clara , San Martén Ortega David , Baïri Iken , Peter Zsolt
Published: May 2017

Purpose

This work deals with the case of the quad flat non-lead 64 (QFN64) electronic package generating a low power range ranging from 0.01 to 0.1W. It is installed on one side of a printed circuit board (PCB) that can be inclined relative to the horizontal plane with an angle varying between 0° and 90° (horizontal and vertical positions, respectively). The surface temperature of the electronic assembly is subjected to air natural convection.

Design/methodology/approach

Calculations are done by means of the finite volume method for many configurations obtained by varying the generated power and the inclination angle.

Findings

The distribution of the surface temperature is determined on all the assembly areas (QFN and PCB). The study shows that the thermal behaviour of the electronic device is influenced by the generated power and the inclination angle. The 3D numerical survey leads to correlations allowing calculation of the average surface temperature in any part of the assembly, according to the power generated by the QFN64 and the inclination angle.

Originality/value

The proposed accurate correlations are original and unpublished. They optimize the thermal design of the electronic QFN64 package, which is increasingly used in many engineering fields.
Numerical and experimental study of free convection on wire-bonded QFN64b electronic package
Authors: Baïri Abderrahmane , Alilat Nacim , Hocine Ali , Hamouda Abderrezak , Haddad Oriana
Published: May 2017

Purpose

The wire-bonded version of the quad flat non-lead with 64 leads (QFN64b) is increasingly integrated in modern arrangements, given its thermal and electrical characteristics suited for specific applications. Temperature control is thus essential for its proper operation, particularly when the heat exchange with the environment is done by natural convection. This work aims to consider a conventional assembly consisting of a large printed circuit board (PCB) on which is welded a QFN64b generating a power in the range 0.01-0.1 W. The PCB could be inclined at an angle varying between 0° and 90° (horizontal and vertical positions, respectively) according to the intended application.

Design/methodology/approach

The 3D numerical approach done by means of the finite volume method is complemented by thermal and electrical measurements for all the configurations numerically processed. The low deviations obtained between the calculations and the measurements validate the adopted model. These results complement recent work that considers the same assembly equipped with a tilted and low-powered QFN64 basic model subjected to free convection.

Findings

The surface temperature in any part of the assembly has been determined. The influence of the power generated by the device and the PCB’s inclination angle relative to the gravity field have been quantified. The work shows that the radiative heat transfer is negligible given the temperatures reached and that the thermal state of the considered assembly is different from the one equipped with the QFN64 basic model. The QFN’s temperature is lowered, while that of the PCB is increased. The temperature distribution is also different from that of assemblies equipped with other QFN models with and without wire-bonding.

Originality/value

The correlations proposed in this survey help optimize the thermal design of the QFN64b electronic package used in many engineering fields.
The leading causes and consequences of citizenship pressure in the hotel industry
Authors: Youn Hyewon , Kim Jong-Hyeong , Song Hanqun
Published: May 2017

Purpose

This study aims to examine the causes of citizenship pressure and to investigate the relationship between citizenship pressure, job stress and turnover intentions. Specifically, the current study examines the effects of the personality trait of neuroticism and the organizational cultures of bureaucracy and the market.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 224 hotel employees in the People’s Republic of China using a self-administered survey questionnaire. The participants completed measures examining citizenship pressure, personality, organizational culture, job stress and intention to quit. Structural equation modeling was used to test the research hypotheses.

Findings

The results showed that employees who are more neurotic are more likely to experience citizenship pressure. Moreover, citizenship pressure was found to increase job stress and turnover intentions. However, a bureaucratic culture, which prizes stability, was found to reduce citizenship pressure.

Practical implications

This study presents factors that may influence hotel employees’ perceptions of citizenship pressure and reveals the negative consequences of such pressure. Thus, the study results contribute to a better understanding of citizenship pressure and can be used to develop guidelines to reduce citizenship pressure in work environments.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the current study is the first empirical study to examine the antecedents and consequences of citizenship pressure in the hotel industry. Moreover, previous citizenship pressure studies have mainly been conducted in a Western cultural context; it is unclear whether citizenship pressure can be similarly observed in China, where the nature and form of employment relationships differ significantly from those in Western countries.