bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of the fosfomycin-resistance determinant, fosB3, in Enterococcus faecium clinical isolates from China
Authors: Chen Chunhui , Xu Xiaogang , Qu Tingting , Yu Yunsong , Ying Chunmei , Liu Qinzhong , Guo Qinglan , Hu Fupin , Zhu Demei , Li Guanghui , Wang Minggui
Published: August 2014

In order to investigate the prevalence of fosfomycin-resistance (fos) determinants in Enterococcus faecium, clinical strains were collected from hospitals throughout China between January 2008 and December 2009. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed, after which the fos genes in all isolates and van genes in vancomycin-resistant isolates were characterized by PCR and sequencing. Conjugation experiments were carried out with fosB-positive E. faecium, DNA fragments flanking the fosB3 gene were sequenced and the genetic environment of fosB3 was analysed. Fosfomycin-resistant E. faecium (FREF) strains were characterized further by multilocus sequence typing (MLST) and PFGE. Among 145 E. faecium clinical isolates, 10 were resistant to fosfomycin with MICs >1024 mg l−1 including six vancomycin-resistant strains of which five were vanA-positive and the sixth vanM-positive. All ten FREF strains harboured the fosB3 gene. Fosfomycin resistance and fosB3 could be transferred by conjugation from nine isolates. The fosB3 and tnpA genes were located in a circular DNA intermediate in all FREF strains and reversely inserted into vanA transposon Tn1546 in four vanA-positive FREF isolates. Ten different PFGE types and seven MLST types were found among the ten fosB3-positive isolates, while all strains belonged to the common clonal complex CC17. In conclusion, the transferable fosfomycin-resistance determinant fosB3 plays an important role in E. faecium resistance to fosfomycin in China.
Physicochemical characteristics of garlic (Allium sativum L.) shoots from different areas in Namhae
Authors: Yoon Hwan-Sik , Kang Min-Jung , Hwang Cho-Rong , Sim Hye-jin , Kim Gyeong-Min , Shin Jung-Hye
Published: August 2014

This paper introduces the physicochemical characteristics of garlic shoots investigated in the 8 areas of Namhae, Gohyeon-myeon (GHM), Nam-myeon (NM), Samdong-myeon (SDM), Namhae-eup (NHE), Seo-myeon (SM), Seolcheon-myeon (SCM), Idong-myeon (IDM) and Changsoen-myeon (CSM). The moisture was 80.15±0.37~83.87±0.15 g/100 g. The crude protein and lipid were 1.59±0.02~2.25±0.09 g/100 g and 0.35±0.01~0.48±0.03 g/100 g, respectively. Ash was 0.65±0.03~0.71±0.03 g/100 g. In addition, the total levels of phenol and flavonoid were searched as 33.02±1.78~58.41±1.08 mg/100 g and 11.60±3.36~23.95±2.04 mg/100 g, respectively. The garlic shoots in IDM, where the highest total chlorophyll level detected as 170.58±1.04 μg/g and in CSM, where the lowest total chlorophyll level investigated as 116.65±0.00 μg/g, were unveiled. The mineral elements (S, Ca, Fe, K, Mg, Na, Mn and Zn) were analyzed by ICP-OES, and K was the most highly contained mineral with 7257.0±87.9~10070.0±9.7 mg/kg. Significant feature of garlic shoots in IDM and NHE was that the total amounts of mineral were relatively higher than other regions as 21,143.5 mg/kg and 20,581.2 mg/kg, respectively. The cultivating regions were revealed as the one of important matters with the level of allicin (78.03±6.15~203.43±18.47 mg/kg). In particular, the level of allicin of garlic raised in SDM (203.43±18.47 mg/kg) was approximately 2.2~2.6 times higher than those in CSM (92.86±8.70 mg/kg) and SCM (78.03±6.15 mg/kg). The sulfur compounds content of diallyl trisulde was remarkably higher, especially the garlic shoots in IDM with 830.62±14.69~1281.10±27.71 mg/kg.
Antioxidant activity and inhibition activity against α-amylase and α-glucosidase of Juniperus rigida Sieb extracts
Authors: Kim Jeung-Hoan , Lee Soo-Yeon , Park Jung-Mi , Park Joo-Hoon , Kwon O-Jun , Lee Jin-Young
Published: August 2014

In this study, the antioxidant effect of water and ethanol extracts from Juniperus rigida Sieb were investigated. The activities of each of the extracts were measured based on their total phenolic and flavonoid contents and using antioxidant test such as of 2,2-azinobis (3-ethyl benzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTs) radical scavenging activities, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), angiotensin I converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition activity, antioxidant protection fator (PF), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARs) content, and α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibition activity assay. The result of the examination to measure the polyphenol content by investigating the antioxidativity of the J. rigida Sieb. extract showed 71.3 mg/g polyphenol content in the water extract, and 116.0 mg/g in the ethanol extract and a 17.7 mg/g flavonoid content in the water extract and in 76.4 mg/g in the ethanol extract. The ABTS radical cation decolorization showed 76.4% and 79.3% scavenging activities of the 500 μg/mL water extract and ethanol extract, respectively. The FRAP showed 1.83 mM efficacy in the water extract and a lower 1.77 mM in ethanol extract. Both the water extract and the ethanol extract showed reduced ACE activities of 75.39% and 71.25% at 500 μg/mL, respectively. The antioxidant protection factor of the water and 70% ethanol extracts of J. rigida Sieb were 1.5 PF and 2.1 PF, respectively. In the TBARS inhibitory activity, the extracts showed 55.78% and 71.48% antioxidant activities at the 500 μg/mL concentration. The results of the measurrement of the α-amylase inhibitory activity indicated more than 90% of activity inhibition in the 500 μg/mL concentration of the ethanol extract. For the α-glucosidase inhibitory activity, the ethanol extract showed 70% activity inhibition at the 500 μg/mL concentration.
Herbicides as Weed Control Agents: State of the Art: I. Weed Control Research and Safener Technology: The Path to Modern Agriculture
Authors: Kraehmer Hansjoerg , Laber Bernd , Rosinger Chris , Schulz Arno
Published: August 2014

The purpose of modern industrial herbicides is to control weeds. The species of weeds that plague crops today are a consequence of the historical past, being related to the history of the evolution of crops and farming practices. Chemical weed control began over a century ago with inorganic compounds and transitioned to the age of organic herbicides. Targeted herbicide research has created a steady stream of successful products. However, safeners have proven to be more difficult to find. Once found, the mode of action of the safener must be determined, partly to help in the discovery of further compounds within the same class. However, mounting regulatory and economic pressure has changed the industry completely, making it harder to find a successful herbicide. Herbicide resistance has also become a major problem, increasing the difficulty of controlling weeds. As a result, the development of new molecules has become a rare event today.
Crystal structure ofcis-1-(2-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinolin-4-yl)azepan-2-one
Authors: Pradeep P. S. , Naveen S. , Kumara M. N. , Mahadevan K. M. , Lokanath N. K.
Published: August 2014

In the title compound, C16H22N2O, the azepan-2-one ring adopts a chair conformation, while the 1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyridine ring adopts a half-chair conformation. In the crystal, molecules are linked by N—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming supramolecular chains propagated along [10-1], with weak C—H...O interactions occurring between the chains.
Crystal structure of methyl 6-methoxy-11-(4-methoxyphenyl)-16-methyl-14-phenyl-8,12-dioxa-14,15-diazatetracyclo[8.7.0.02,7.013,17]heptadeca-2(7),3,5,13(17),15-pentaene-10-carboxylate
Authors: Vinayagam V. , Bakthadoss M. , Murugavel S. , Manikandan N.
Published: August 2014

In the title compound, C30H28N2O6, the pyran ring adopts a slightly distorted half-chair conformation and the pyrone ring adopts an envelope conformation, with the C atom bearing the carboxylate group as the flap. The pyrazole ring [maximum deviation = 0.002 (2) Å] forms a dihedral angle of 13.2 (1)° with the attached benzene ring. The near-planar atoms of the pyran ring and the pyrazole ring are close to coplanar, the dihedral angles between their mean planes being 6.4 (1)°. The dihedral angle between the pyrone ring and the benzene ring of the chromene unit is 10.7 (1)°. The molecular conformation is stabilized by an intramolecular C—H...O hydrogen bond, which generates anS(6) ring motif. In the crystal, C—H...O interactions generate supramolecular chains propagating in [100] and these are connected into double layers that stack along thec-axis direction by weak π–π interactions between pyrazole rings [centroid–centroid distance = 3.801 (1) Å].
Crystal structure of 5-chloro-2-(3-fluorophenyl)-3-methylsulfinyl-1-benzofuran
Authors: Choi Hong Dae , Lee Uk
Published: August 2014

In the title compound, C15H10ClFO2S, the dihedral angle between the plane of the benzofuran ring system [r.m.s. deviation = 0.013 (1) Å] and that of the 3-fluorophenyl ring [r.m.s. deviation = 0.005 (1) Å] is 31.36 (5)°. In the crystal, molecules are linked by two different pairs of C—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming inversion dimers.
Gender barriers in Chilean mining: a strategic management
Authors: Salinas Paulina , Romaní Gianni
Published: August 2014

Purpose

Given Chile's high projected deficit of skilled labor in its mining industry, the purpose of this paper is to explore the gender barriers present that hinder women from entering the sector.

Design/methodology/approach

To do this, a descriptive and interpretative study was undertaken and in‐depth interviews were conducted with 70 male and female workers belonging to the operating areas in the mining companies located in northern Chile. The data were transcribed and analyzed through a qualitative approach using discourse analysis by thematic categories.

Findings

The results show that gender barriers are related to: self‐discrimination of workers themselves, family demands, and male dominance in the field.

Originality/value

These results are relevant for strategic planning in the mining industry. They allow us to redirect policies to incorporate women in the sector in order to counteract the aforementioned deficits. The practical implications of this study for the mining sector in general include the incorporation of, for male employees, awareness workshops focussing on the importance of the inclusion of women in mining and aspects that favor this process and, for female employees, leadership and empowerment workshops. These initiatives will help to generate a more satisfying work environment that promotes better human resource management and productivity of the sector.
Business failure: incidence of stakeholders’ behavior
Authors: Maria Priego Alba , Manzaneque Lizano Montserrat , Merino Madrid Elena
Published: August 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the potential impact of stakeholders’ behavior on business failure, through its influence on the generation and distribution of value added.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a sample of 2,277 Spanish SMEs – half of which were businesses that failed during the years 2006‐2009 – the authors conducted an empirical study on a number of variables representing the participation of stakeholders in the generation and distribution of value added. This was undertaken in order to discern differential behavior between the variables and prove their usefulness in predicting business failure. For this purpose, a mean difference analysis between failed and non‐failed businesses and a multivariate logistic regression model were applied.

Findings

The results obtained show that the stakeholders’ behavior in relation to their participation in the generation and distribution of value added, affects the likelihood of business failure.

Originality/value

This paper provides empirical evidence of the influence of stakeholders’ behavior on the likelihood of business failure, through their participation in the generation and distribution of value added. The results are useful for creating management strategies because they offer advice on the implementation of business management models based on the stakeholder approach, and on the appropriate involvement of all those who make up the conglomerate in the generation and distribution of value added. They also emphasize the value of recording information related to the Value‐Added Statement in order to explain a firm's level of dependence on its stakeholders and assess the firm's risk of insolvency.
Predators, energetics and fitness drive neonatal reproductive failure in red squirrels
Authors: Studd Emily K. , Boutin Stan , McAdam Andrew G. , Krebs Charles J. , Humphries Murray M.
Published: August 2014

Neonatal reproductive failure should occur when energetic costs of parental investment outweigh fitness benefits. However, little is known about the drivers of neonatal reproductive failure in free‐ranging species experiencing continuous natural variation in predator abundance and in the energetic and fitness costs and benefits associated with parental investment.

Long‐term comprehensive studies are required to better understand how biotic, abiotic and life‐history conditions interact to drive occurrences of reproductive failure in the wild.

Using 24 years (1987–2011) of reproductive data from a northern boreal population of North American red squirrels in south‐western Yukon, we examined the effects of predator abundance, energetics (resource availability, ambient temperature and litter size) and fitness benefits (probability of overwinter juvenile survival and maternal age) on occurrences of neonatal reproductive failure (494/2670 reproductive attempts; 18·5%).

Neonatal reproductive failure was driven by a combination of predator abundance, and the energetic and fitness costs and benefits of parental investment. The abundance of mustelids and maternal age was positively related to the occurrence of neonatal reproductive failure. High energy costs associated with a combination of low resource availability and cold ambient temperatures or large litters, corresponded to increased occurrences of neonatal reproductive failure. However, the strength of these relationships was influenced by variation in juvenile overwinter survival (i.e. fitness benefits).

We provide evidence that predation pressure is an important driver of neonatal reproductive failure. In addition, we found a trade‐off occurs between resource‐dependent energetic and fitness costs and benefits of raising the current litter to independence.
Positive Duties and Human Rights: Challenges, Opportunities and Conceptual Necessities
Authors: Breakey Hugh
Published: August 2014

Can human rights impose positive duties to act, as well as negative duties constraining action? At first glance there seem to be strong reasons for wishing human rights could impose positive duties – such reasons include the promotion of welfare rights and the positive protection of liberty rights (e.g. police protection against assault). However, any attempt to construct rights-based positive duties threatens to dissolve hallmark features of rights. In this article the duty-properties possessed by uncontroversial rights-based negative duties are comprehensively analysed. Drawing on this analysis, a range of key properties is developed, including ‘regime-level right-holder universality’ and ‘many-to-one directedness’, as well as a ‘centres of pressure’ vision of rights, by which it is argued that positive duties can accord with the keystone commitments of rights-based moral theories. In so doing, a conceptual space for rights-based positive duties is defended.
Incumbent-Quality Advantage and Counterfactual Electoral Stagnation in the US Senate
Authors: Pastine Ivan , Pastine Tuvana , Redmond Paul
Published: August 2014

This article examines the extent to which electoral selection based on candidate quality alone can account for the pattern of re-election rates in the US Senate. In the absence of officeholder benefits, electoral selection is simulated using observed dropout rates from 1946 to 2010. This provides a benchmark for the re-election rate that would be generated by incumbent quality advantage alone. The simulation delivers a re-election rate that is almost identical to the observed rate prior to 1980, at around 78 per cent. In the later subsample, quality-based selection generates a re-election rate that is seven percentage points lower than observed. The divergence in the re-election rates in the later subsample is consistent with the findings of vote margin studies that indicate rising incumbency advantage due to officeholder benefits. In addition, it is found here that the quality-based selection first-term re-election rate is significantly lower than the observed first-term re-election rate. This result supports sophomore surge vote margin studies of officeholder benefits.
Growth and enterotoxin production of Staphylococcus aureus in Iranian ultra‐filtered white cheese
Authors: Mohammadi Khosrow , Hanifian Shahram
Published: August 2014

This study aimed to investigate the growth and enterotoxin production of Staphylococcus aureus during the ripening and storage of Iranian ultra‐filtered white cheese (IUFWC). According to the results, the addition of starter culture had significant inhibitory effects on the growth and enterotoxin production of S. aureus. Moreover, prolong survival and enterotoxin production were observed in the samples with the highest inoculum (5 log CFU/g) of S. aureus. It was concluded that proper activity of the starter culture together with the refrigeration storage of IUFWC was the key element in inhibiting the growth and enterotoxin production of S. aureus.
Advancement along a career path: the influence of human capital and performance
Authors: Harris Christopher M. , Pattie Marshall W. , McMahan Gary C.
Published: August 2014

Following the path metaphor of careers along with signalling and human capital theories, we examine important factors that predict individuals' advancement in a career. With a unique sample ofAmerican football players, we tested the influence of individuals' human capital on their performance, value and advancement along a career path. Our findings indicate that individuals' human capital assessed in the first stage of the career path is positively related to individuals' performance in the second stage of the career path and the value placed on individuals in the third stage of the career path. We also found that performance in the second stage mediated the relationship between human capital assessed in the first stage and the value placed on individuals in the third stage of the career path.
Association of Toll‐like Receptor 4 Gene polymorphisms with susceptibility to type 2 diabetes mellitus in the Chinese population Toll样受体4基因多态性与中国人群2型糖尿病易感性的关联研究
Authors: Peng Danfeng , Jiang Feng , Zhang Rong , Tang Shanshan , Chen Miao , Yan Jing , Sun Xue , Luo Yi , Hu Cheng , Jia Weiping
Published: August 2014

Background

Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) plays an important role in innate immunity. Activation of innate immune response and subsequent chronic low‐grade inflammation are thought to be involved in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes. In this study, we aimed to investigate the association of TLR4 variants with type 2 diabetes in the Chinese population.

Methods

Seven tag single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of TLR4 based on HapMap Chinese data were genotyped in the Shanghai Chinese, including 3404 type 2 diabetes patients and 3401 controls. The controls were extensively phenotyped for the traits related to glucose metabolism and insulin secretion.

Results

In total participants, we identified that rs10759932 and rs1927911 were associated with type 2 diabetes (odds ratio 1.106, P = 0.009 for rs10759532, odds ratio 1.092, P = 0.013 for rs1927911). rs11536889 showed a trend association with type 2 diabetes (odds ratio 0.957, P = 0.057). This SNP was also associated with 2‐h plasma glucose (P = 0.033) and high‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol (P = 0.031). In female participants, rs10759932, rs1927911 and rs11536889 were associated with type 2 diabetes (odds ratio 1.176, P = 0.002 for rs10759932, odds ratio 1.136, P = 0.009 for rs1927911, odds ratio 0.882, P = 0.024 for rs11536889). Besides, rs11536889 was significantly associated with 2‐h plasma glucose (P = 0.050) and HOMA‐B (P = 0.046) with adjusting for age and body mass index in female normal subjects.

Conclusions

We conclude that genetic variants of TLR4 are associated with type 2 diabetes in the Chinese population, especially in female subjects.
A randomized, open‐label, multicentre, phase 2/3 study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of lumiliximab in combination with fludarabine, cyclophosphamide and rituximab versus fludarabine, cyclophosphamide and rituximab alone in subjects with relapsed chronic lymphocytic leukaemia
Authors: Awan Farrukh T. , Hillmen Peter , Hellmann Andrzej , Robak Tadeusz , Hughes Steven G. , Trone Denise , Shannon Megan , Flinn Ian W. , Byrd John C. ,   the LUCID trial investigators
Published: August 2014

Lumiliximab is a chimeric monoclonal antibody that targets CD23 on the surface of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) B‐cells. Early phase clinical studies with lumiliximab alone and in combination with fludarabine, cyclophosphamide and rituximab (FCR) established its potential efficacy and tolerability. The 152CL201 trial [Lumiliximab with fludarabine, cyclophosphamide and rituximab (FCR) versus FCR alone in subjects with relapsed CLL; LUCID] was a phase 2/3, randomized (1:1), open‐label, multicentre study of lumiliximab in combination with FCR versus FCR alone in patients with relapsed CLL. Six hundred and twenty‐seven patients were randomized to either arm. Overall the combination of lumiliximab with FCR was not significantly better than FCR alone (overall response rate 71% vs. 72%, complete response rate 16% vs. 15%, median progression‐free survival 24.6 vs. 23.9 months respectively, for FCR with and without lumiliximab). There was a slightly increased incidence of adverse events with lumiliximab but these increases did not appear to lead to differences in eventual outcomes. An interim analysis failed to show sufficient efficacy of the combination of lumiliximab with FCR. The study was therefore stopped early for lack of efficacy. Despite the eventual outcome, the LUCID trial is one of the largest studies that provides valuable insight into the efficacy and tolerability of FCR as a therapeutic option for patients with relapsed CLL.
Storage and secretion of naturally occurring von Willebrand factor A domain variants
Authors: Groeneveld Dafna J. , Wang Jiong‐Wei , Mourik Marjon J. , Dirven Richard J. , Valentijn Karine M. , Voorberg Jan , Reitsma Pieter H. , Eikenboom Jeroen
Published: August 2014

Von Willebrand disease (VWD) is a bleeding disorder characterized by reduced plasma von Willebrand factor (VWF) levels or functionally abnormal VWF. Low VWF plasma levels in VWD patients are the result of mutations in the VWF gene that lead to decreased synthesis, impaired secretion, increased clearance or a combination thereof. However, expression studies of variants located in the A domains of VWF are limited. We therefore characterized the biosynthesis of VWF mutations, located in the VWF A1–A3 domains, that were found in families diagnosed with VWD. Human Embryonic Kidney 293 (HEK293) cells were transiently transfected with plasmids encoding full‐length wild‐type VWF or mutant VWF. Six mutations in the A1–A3 domains were expressed. We found that all mutants, except one, showed impaired formation of elongated pseudo‐Weibel‐Palade bodies (WPB). In addition, two mutations also showed reduced numbers of pseudo‐WPB, even in the heterozygous state, and increased endoplasmic reticulum retention, which is in accordance with the impaired regulated secretion seen in patients. Regulated secretion upon stimulation of transfected cells reproduced the in vivo situation, indicating that HEK293 cells expressing VWF variants found in patients with VWD can be used to properly assess defects in regulated secretion.
Enhanced allergic airway disease in old mice is associated with a Th17 response
Authors: Brandenberger C. , Li N. , Jackson‐Humbles D. N. , Rockwell C. E. , Wagner J. G. , Harkema J. R.
Published: August 2014

Background

The prevalence of asthma in the elderly is increasing and associated with higher mortality than in children or young adults. However, the effects of age on the development and character of allergic asthma have been understudied. It has been suggested that mixed Th2/Th17 responses cause more severe forms of asthma, but the role of Th17 response in allergic airway disease and aging is not well understood.

Objective

To investigate age‐dependent characteristics and Th17 immune response in allergic airway disease in a murine house dust mite (HDM)‐allergen model.

Methods

Twelve‐week‐old and 15‐month‐old male BALB/c mice were sensitized and challenged with HDM. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), airway inflammation and hyperresponsiveness (AHR), serum immunoglobulin and splenic T cells were assessed. Age‐related T cell activation was analyzed in a co‐culture with bone marrow‐derived dendritic cells (BMDC) and splenic CD4+T cells from young and old mice.

Results

Features of allergic airway disease such as mucous cell hyperplasia, infiltration of airway eosinophils and lymphocytes, Th2 cytokine expression and serum IgG1 levels were greater in old compared to young mice. In contrast to the more marked inflammatory/immune responses to HDM in old mice, AHR was greater in young HDM‐treated mice. Only the old mice developed airway neutrophil infiltration and a Th17 immune response upon HDM exposure, with increases in BALF cytokines IL‐17A and KC, and Th17 cytokine producing T cells in the spleen. Stimulation of CD4+T cells and BMDC co‐cultures with HDM, resulted in an enhanced Th17 cytokine response in cells isolated from old mice.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Our findings in mice suggest that the severity and character of allergic airway disease are age dependent, with a bias towards a Th17 immune response with aging. Elderly, asthmatics may be prone to develop severe allergic airway inflammation with a mixed Th2/Th17 immune response.
The value of preoperative 18F‐FDG PET/CT for the assessing contralateral neck in head and neck cancer patients with unilateral node metastasis (N1‐3)
Authors: Joo Y.‐H. , Yoo I.‐R. , Cho K.‐J. , Park J.‐O. , Nam I.‐C. , Kim C.‐S. , Kim S.‐Y. , Kim M.‐S.
Published: August 2014

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to determine whether preoperative 18F‐FDG PET/CT is useful in assessing contralateral lymph node metastasis in the neck.

Design

A retrospective review of medical records was performed.

Setting

Patients treated at a single institute.

Participants

One hundred and fifty‐seven patients whose pathology results were positive for unilateral node metastasis (N1‐3) involvement and underwent preoperative 18F‐FDG PET/CT for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) were reviewed.

Main outcome measures

Prognostic factors and nodal SUVmax were studied to identify the risk of contralateral disease.

Results

Thirty‐six (22.9%) patients had contralateral cervical lymph node metastases. The 18F‐FDG PET/CT had a sensitivity of 80% and a specificity of 96% in identifying the contralateral cervical lymph node metastases on a level‐by‐level basis. The median SUVmax values of the ipsilateral and contralateral lymph nodes were 3.99 ± 3.36 (range, 0–20.4) and 2.94 ± 2.04 (range, 0–8.7), respectively (P = 0.001). There was a significant difference in the median SUVmax of contralateral nodes between the benign and malignant cervical lymph nodes (2.31 ± 0.62 versus 3.28 ± 2.43, P = 0.014). The cut‐off value of contralateral median SUVmax in the context of contralateral cervical metastasis was 2.5 with the sensitivity of 75% and the specificity of 94%. A median contralateral lymph node SUVmax ≥ 2.5 was associated with 5‐year disease‐specific survival (P = 0.038).

Conclusion

18F‐FDG PET/CT median SUVmax cut‐off values of contralateral lymph nodes ≥2.5 were associated with contralateral cervical lymph node metastases and 5‐year disease‐specific survival in HNSCC patients with unilateral metastases.
ENERGY SECURITY IN THE ASIA‐PACIFIC REGION
Authors: Intriligator Michael D.
Published: August 2014

The nations of the Asia‐Pacific Region, including its three sub‐regions of Northeast Asia, Southeast Asia, and South Asia, face major potential dangers in securing the energy needed for their economies. This paper focuses on these dangers and discusses the future prospects for these vulnerable nations, including their need for closer cooperation. (JEL Q32, Q34, Q40)
Personally prescribed psychoactive drugs in overdose deaths among drug abusers: A retrospective register study
Authors: Rönkä Sanna , Karjalainen Karoliina , Vuori Erkki , Mäkelä Pia
Published: August 2014

Introduction and Aims

Psychoactive prescription drug (PPD) abuse‐related overdose deaths have increased in many countries in recent decades. We aimed to investigate the role of personally prescribed psychoactive drugs in abuse‐related overdose mortality and explore any associations with level of social disadvantage.

Design and Methods

This register linkage study included all 243 people who had died of abuse‐related drug‐induced poisoning in Finland in 2000 and 2008. Data on registered purchases of psychoactive drugs within one and three years of death were linked to data on the psychoactive drug/s contributing to death in each case. Social disadvantage was measured by receipt of income support, long‐term unemployment and disability pension.

Results

Thirty‐six percent of those abusers who had died of a drug overdose had purchased a similarly acting drug within three years of death. In all overdoses, the proportion increased from 20% in 2000 to 49% in 2008 (P < 0.001). A similar increase was seen in purchases within one year of death; from one‐tenth in 2000 to one‐third of all cases in 2008 (P < 0.001). The majority (83%) of the deceased had received income support, while only 13–14% were long‐term unemployed or on disability pension. Disability pension recipients had significantly more prescribed psychoactive drug purchases than non‐recipients (P < 0.001 for three and one years within death).

Discussion and Conclusions

Personally prescribed PPDs pose a potential threat to people who abuse drugs. Health‐care services should invest greater effort in identifying people who abuse drugs and in monitoring their drug prescriptions. [Rönkä S, Karjalainen K, Vuori E, Mäkelä P. Personally prescribed psychoactive drugs in overdose deaths among drug abusers: A retrospective register study. Drug Alcohol Rev 2015;34:82–89]
Gender differences in socioeconomic inequality of alcohol‐attributable mortality: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Probst Charlotte , Roerecke Michael , Behrendt Silke , Rehm Jürgen
Published: August 2014

Introduction and Aims

The present analysis contributes to understanding the societal distribution of alcohol‐attributable harm by investigating socioeconomic inequality and related gender differences in alcohol‐attributable mortality.

Design and Methods

A systematic literature search was performed on Web of Science, MEDLINE, PsycINFO and ETOH from their inception until February 2013. Articles were included when they reported data on alcohol‐attributable mortality by socioeconomic status (SES), operationalised as education, occupation, employment status or income. Gender‐specific relative risks (RR) comparing low with high SES were pooled using random effects meta‐analyses. Gender differences were additionally investigated in random effects meta‐regressions.

Results

Nineteen articles from 14 countries were included. For women, significant RRs across all measures of SES, except employment status, were found, ranging between 1.75 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.21–2.54; occupation] and 4.78 (95% CI 2.57–8.87; income). For men, all measures of SES showed significant RRs ranging between 2.88 (95% CI 2.45–3.40; income) and 12.25 (95% CI 11.45–13.10; employment status). While RRs for men were in general slightly higher, only for occupation this gender difference was above chance (P = 0.01). Results refer to deaths 100% attributable to alcohol.

Discussion and Conclusions

The results are predominantly based on data from high‐income countries, limiting generalisability. Alcohol‐attributable mortality is strongly distributed to the disadvantage of persons with a low SES. Marked gender differences in this inequality were found for occupation. Possibly male‐dominated occupations of low SES were more strongly related to risky drinking cultures compared with female‐dominated occupations of the same SES.
Low genetic diversity and high inbreeding of the endangered yews in Central Himalaya: implications for conservation of their highly fragmented populations
Authors: Poudel Ram C. , Möller Michael , Liu Jie , Gao Lian‐Ming , Baral Sushim R. , Li De‐Zhu
Published: August 2014

Aim

To assess patterns of genetic variation and levels of diversity in the endangered allopatrically distributed Taxus contorta, T. mairei and T. wallichiana in highly fragmented and degraded habitats of the Himalayas.

Location

Central Himalaya, particularly the area within the political boundary of Nepal and SW Xizang, China.

Methods

We used a multidisciplinary approach combining a transect study, population genetic analyses based on chloroplast DNA sequences and nuclear microsatellite data, and ecological modelling to estimate the size‐class structure, genetic diversity and differentiation of populations and understand the potential fate of yew populations in the face of rapidly degrading habitats and abrupt climate change.

Results

For all three species, the flat regression slopes of the size‐class distributions (SCD), and high permutation index values indicate unstable population structure with lower recruitment rates. The chloroplast and nuclear microsatellite data further reveal low genetic diversity, significant population differentiation and high inbreeding for yew species of this region. We identified two strong barriers of genetic discontinuities, where the presence of spatially different ecological environments caused an allopatric distribution of the species. The ecological model projection for the year 2080 forecasted a substantial decrease in size of suitable areas and a range shift towards the north.

Main conclusions

The spatial distribution of the genetic variation and diversity within and among the populations of each yew species was largely shaped by their peripheral position in their respective ranges, differences in their evolutionary histories, and the periodic and asynchronous climates experienced by the species, in addition to the severe impacts of anthropogenic activities. Several yew populations in Central Himalaya have already declined to sizes too small to be demographically sustainable. Improved conservation managements, both at the species and landscape levels, should be implemented for the protection of remnant populations.
Durability of the efficacy and safety of alogliptin compared with glipizide in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a 2‐year study
Authors: Del Prato S. , Camisasca R. , Wilson C. , Fleck P.
Published: August 2014

Aims

To evaluate the long‐term durability of the efficacy of alogliptin compared with glipizide in combination with metformin in people with type 2 diabetes inadequately controlled on stable‐dose metformin.

Methods

This multicentre, double‐blind, active‐controlled study randomized 2639 patients aged 18–80 years to 104 weeks of treatment with metformin in addition to alogliptin 12.5 mg once daily (n = 880), alogliptin 25 mg once daily (n = 885) or glipizide 5 mg once daily, titrated to a maximum of 20 mg (n = 874). The primary endpoint was least square mean change from baseline in HbA1c level at 104 weeks.

Results

The mean patient age was 55.4 years, the mean diabetes duration was 5.5 years and the mean baseline HbA1c was 7.6%. HbA1c reductions at week 104 were −0.68%, −0.72% and −0.59% for alogliptin 12.5 and 25 mg and glipizide, respectively [both doses met the criteria for non‐inferiority to glipizide (p<0.001); alogliptin 25 mg met superiority criteria (p=0.010)]. Fasting plasma glucose concentration decreased by 0.05 and 0.18 mmol/l for alogliptin 12.5 and 25 mg, respectively, and increased by 0.30 mmol/l for glipizide (p < 0.001 for both comparisons with glipizide). Mean weight changes were −0.68, −0.89 and 0.95 kg for alogliptin 12.5 and 25 mg and glipizide, respectively (p < 0.001 for both comparisons with glipizide). Hypoglycaemia occurred in 23.2% of patients in the glipizide group vs. 2.5 and 1.4% of patients in the alogliptin 12.5 and 25 mg groups, respectively. Pancreatitis occurred in one patient in the alogliptin 25 mg group and three in the glipizide group.

Conclusions

Alogliptin efficacy was sustained over 2 years in patients with inadequate glycaemic control on metformin alone.
Nitrogen as a key regulator of flowering in Fagus crenata: understanding the physiological mechanism of masting by gene expression analysis
Authors: Miyazaki Yuko , Maruyama Yosuke , Chiba Yukako , Kobayashi Masaki J. , Joseph Benesh , Shimizu Kentaro K. , Mochida Keiichi , Hiura Tsutom , Kon Hirokazu , Satake Akiko
Published: August 2014

The role of resource availability in determining the incidence of masting has been widely studied, but how floral transition and initiation are regulated by the resource level is unclear. We tested the hypothesis that floral transition is stimulated by high resource availabiltiy in Fagus crenata based on a new technique, the expression analyses of flowering genes. We isolated F. crenata orthologues of FLOWERING LOCUS T, LEAFY and APETALA1, and confirmed their functions using transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana. We monitored the gene expression levels for 5 years and detected a cycle of on and off years, which was correlated with fluctuations of the shoot‐nitrogen concentration. Nitrogen fertilisation resulted in the significantly higher expression of flowering genes than the control, where all of the fertilised trees flowered, whereas the control did not. Our findings identified nitrogen as a key regulator of mast flowering, thereby providing new empirical evidence to support the resource budget model.
Epilepsy surgery of the rolandic and immediate perirolandic cortex: Surgical outcome and prognostic factors
Authors: Delev Daniel , Send Knut , Wagner Jan , von Lehe Marec , Ormond D. Ryan , Schramm Johannes , Grote Alexander
Published: August 2014

Objective

Herein we present a single‐center retrospective study of patients who underwent epilepsy surgery for seizures arising from the sensorimotor (rolandic) cortex. The goal was to find prognostic factors associated with better seizure outcome and to evaluate both surgical and neurologic outcomes.

Patients, methods, and materials

A total of 66 patients fulfilled eligibility criteria and were included in the study. Patients were divided into two groups for analysis: patients with resections within rolandic cortex (RO group; n = 46), and patients with resections in immediate perirolandic cortex and simultaneous sensorimotor multiple subpial transections (IPR group; n = 20).

Results

Favorable postoperative seizure outcome (International League Against Epilepsy [ILAE]; ILAE1–ILAE3) was achieved in 42 patients (64%), 39 (59%) of whom were completely seizure‐free (ILAE1). The favorable seizure outcome in the RO group (72%) was better than in the IPR group (45%) (p = 0.04, relative risk [RR] 0.51 [0.28‐0.94, 95% CI]). Eighteen patients (34%) had a postoperative permanent neurologic deficit. Independent predictors for excellent seizure outcome (ILAE1) after multivariate regression analysis were complete resection of the lesion (p < 0.001), pathology (p = 0.009), age at surgery (p = 0.03), and the absence of preoperative simple partial seizures (p = 0.01).

Significance

With a 64% favorable seizure outcome, surgery for intractable epilepsy arising from sensorimotor cortex is possible and can be worthwhile. The increased risk for postoperative neurologic deficits is higher than in other locations, and this must be discussed with patients in detail prior to surgery. Best postoperative results can be achieved in cases in which a complete resection is possible without damaging eloquent cortical areas.
A new role for LOX and LOXL2 proteins in transcription regulation
Authors: Iturbide Ane , García de Herreros Antonio , Peiró Sandra
Published: August 2014

The lysyl oxidase (LOX) family of proteins (LOX and LOXL1–LOXL4) oxidize amino groups located in the ε‐position in lysines to generate an aldehyde group. In general, they are considered as extracellular proteins and have elastin and collagen as their main substrates. However, recent findings suggest a critical intracellular role for LOX and LOXL2 in transcriptional regulation. In this review, we highlight what is known about the transcriptional role of these two members of the family. Intriguingly, both the intracellular localization of these proteins and the fact that histones have been revealed to be their substrates place this family of proteins within the epigenetic field.
Comparative study of two GH19 chitinase‐like proteins from Hevea brasiliensis, one exhibiting a novel carbohydrate‐binding domain
Authors: Martínez‐Caballero Siseth , Cano‐Sánchez Patricia , Mares‐Mejía Israel , Díaz‐Sánchez Angel G. , Macías‐Rubalcava Martha L. , Hermoso Juan A. , Rodríguez‐Romero Adela
Published: August 2014

Plants express chitinase and chitinase‐like proteins (CLPs) belonging to the glycosyl hydrolases of the GH18 and GH19 families, which exhibit varied functions. CLPs in the GH18 family have been structurally and functionally characterized; however, there are no structures available for any member of the GH19 family. In this study, two CLPs of the GH19 family from the rubber tree Hevea brasiliensis (HbCLP1 and HbCLP2) were cloned, expressed and characterized. HbCLP1 was identical to the allergen Hev b 11.0101 previously described by others, while HbCLP2 was a novel isoform exhibiting an unusual half chitin‐binding domain before the catalytic domain. Sequence alignments showed that in the two proteins the catalytic residues Glu117 and Glu147 in HbCLP1 and HbCLP2, respectively, were mutated to Ala, accounting for the lack of activity. Nonetheless, both CLPs bound chitin and chitotriose (GlcNAc)3 with high affinities, as evaluated with chitin‐affinity chromatography and tryptophan fluorescence experiments. The chitin‐binding domains also bound chitotriose with even higher affinities. The crystal structures of the HbCLP1‐isolated domains were determined at high resolution. The analysis of the crystallographic models and docking experiments using (GlcNAc)6 oligosaccharides provides evidence of the residues involved in sugar binding. Endochitinase activity was restored in both proteins by mutating residues A117E (HbCLP1) and A147E (HbCLP2); the distance between the catalytic proton donor and the catalytic nucleophile in the in silico mutated residues was 9.5 Å, as occurs in inverting enzymes. HbCLP1 and HbCLP2 were highly thermostable and exhibited antifungal activity against Alternaria alternata, suggesting their participation in plant defense mechanisms.

Database

The atomic coordinates and structure factors have been deposited in the Protein Data Bank with accession numbers 4MST for the catalytic domain (CatD1) and 4MPI for the chitin‐binding domain (CBD1). Nucleotide sequence data are available in the GenBank database under the accession numbers KF648872 (chi‐L1) and KF648873 (chi‐L2).
A small cantilever beam test for determination of creep properties of materials
Authors: Zhuang F. K. , Tu S. T. , Zhou G. Y. , Wang Q. Q.
Published: August 2014

The application of small specimen creep test techniques in the evaluation of creep properties of materials in‐service has been increasing. To obtain the creep data accurately and conveniently, a new creep test method with small cantilever beam specimens is proposed. Analytical equations are derived that can convert the load to equivalent uniaxial stress and the displacement rate to equivalent uniaxial strain rate. Three types of the cantilever beam specimens are designed. The optimal configuration of the cantilever beam specimens is recommended with the aid of finite element method, which is further validated by the cantilever beam and uniaxial specimen tests. The results show that parameters obtained from the cantilever beam tests correspond reasonably well with those from uniaxial tests at low stress levels. With a relatively large equivalent gauge length, the cantilever beam specimen allows the small creep strain rate data obtained with a high accuracy.
Back to the future? Views of heads of schools of nursing about undergraduate specialization in mental health nursing
Authors: Happell Brenda , McAllister Margaret
Published: August 2014

Preparation of nursing students for practice in mental health settings in Australia has been criticized since comprehensive education replaced preregistration specialist education. Current and projected workforce shortages have given rise to considering the reintroduction of specialization at preregistration level as a potential solution. Support of heads of schools of nursing would be essential for such an initiative to be considered. A qualitative exploratory study was undertaken involving in‐depth telephone interviews with heads of schools of nursing in Queensland. Participants generally favoured the concept of specialization in mental health nursing at undergraduate level. Data analysis revealed the following themes: meeting workforce needs, improving quality of care, employability of graduates, an attractive option for students, and what would have to go. Participants identified many benefits to mental health service delivery and consumer outcomes. How the initiative could be developed within an already overcrowded curriculum was identified as the major barrier. This level of support is encouraging if necessary changes to the educational preparation for mental health nursing practice are to be considered.
Educational barriers of nurses caring for sick and at‐risk infants in India
Authors: Campbell‐Yeo M. , Deorari A. , McMillan D.D. , Singhal N. , Vatsa M. , Aylward D. , Scotland J. , Kumar P. , Joshi M. , Kalyan G. , Dol J.
Published: August 2014

Aim

To gain ideas and information from healthcare providers to optimize the education and clinical practices of nurses caring for sick or at‐risk newborns in India.

Background

Improving infant survival has been identified as a Millennium Development Goals; however, India still faces many challenges with 3.1 million neonatal deaths and 2.6 million stillbirths annually. Skilled nursing care has been associated with decreased morbidity and mortality in newborns. However, core competencies in newborn care education and training are lacking for nurses.

Methods

Qualitative data were collected from 12 focus groups with 101 newborn care providers from three areas of India as well as from a 2‐day stakeholders' meeting. Data analysis was undertaken using descriptive and thematic content analysis.

Results

Perceived challenges included limited manpower and high nurse turnover, lack of access to evidence‐based orientation to newborn care and problems with access to appropriate learner‐based, neonatal training. Relevant, ongoing education opportunities, led by nursing leaders were identified to be important solutions.

Conclusion

Findings provide insight into the current healthcare system in India with specific reference to the nursing care of at‐risk newborns. There is a lack of existing resources to provide standardized and specific orientation curricula for nurses.

Implications for Nursing and Health Policy

Policy makers in health and education need to: support and enact learner‐based orientation and continuing educational opportunities as well as ongoing competency‐based education programmes; encourage nurse leader involvement and support; and provide sustainable system‐related supports. Nurses and other health providers need to work together to influence government policy.