bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inconsistency in the analysis of morphological deformities in chironomidae (Insecta: Diptera) larvae
Authors: Salmelin Johanna , Vuori Kari-Matti , Hämäläinen Heikki
Published: June 2015

The incidence of morphological deformities of chironomid larvae as an indicator of sediment toxicity has been studied for decades. However, standards for deformity analysis are lacking. The authors evaluated whether 25 experts diagnosed larval deformities in a similar manner. Based on high-quality digital images, the experts rated 211 menta of Chironomus spp. larvae as normal or deformed. The larvae were from a site with polluted sediments or from a reference site. The authors revealed this to a random half of the experts, and the rest conducted the assessment blind. The authors quantified the interrater agreement by kappa coefficient, tested whether open and blind assessments differed in deformity incidence and in differentiation between the sites, and identified those deformity types rated most consistently or inconsistently. The total deformity incidence varied greatly, from 10.9% to 66.4% among experts. Kappa coefficient across rater pairs averaged 0.52, indicating insufficient agreement. The deformity types rated most consistently were those missing teeth or with extra teeth. The open and blind assessments did not differ, but differentiation between sites was clearest for raters who counted primarily absolute deformities such as missing and extra teeth and excluded apparent mechanical aberrations or deviations in tooth size or symmetry. The highly differing criteria in deformity assignment have likely led to inconsistent results in midge larval deformity studies and indicate an urgent need for standardization of the analysis. Environ Toxicol Chem 2015;34:1891–1898. © 2015 SETAC
Measuring Motivation in Low‐Stakes Assessments
Authors: Finn Bridgid
Published: June 2015

There is a growing concern that when scores from low‐stakes assessments are reported without considering student motivation as a construct of interest, biased conclusions about how much students know will result. Low motivation is a problem particularly relevant to low‐stakes testing scenarios, which may be low stakes for the test taker but have considerable consequences for teachers, school districts, or educational and governmental institutions. The current review addresses the impact of motivation on assessment scores and research that have identified methods for minimizing the error introduced by unmotivated test takers. A comprehensive review of the test conditions that have been shown to influence motivation is provided. In addition, the review identifies a number of circumstances under which motivation can be enhanced or diminished. The benefits and limitations of the various measurement techniques that have been used to mitigate the negative impact of low‐motivation test takers on score interpretation are discussed.
Intelligence‐related differences in the asymmetry of spontaneous cerebral activity
Authors: Santarnecchi Emiliano , Tatti Elisa , Rossi Simone , Serino Vinicio , Rossi Alessandro
Published: June 2015

Recent evidence suggests the spontaneous BOLD signal synchronization of corresponding interhemispheric, homotopic regions as a stable trait of human brain physiology, with emerging differences in such organization being also related to some pathological conditions. To understand whether such brain functional symmetries play a role into higher‐order cognitive functioning, here we correlated the functional homotopy profiles of 119 healthy subjects with their intelligence level. Counterintuitively, reduced homotopic connectivity in above average‐IQ versus average‐IQ subjects was observed, with significant reductions in visual and somatosensory cortices, supplementary motor area, rolandic operculum, and middle temporal gyrus, possibly suggesting that a downgrading of interhemispheric talk at rest could be associated with higher cognitive functioning. These regions also showed an increased spontaneous synchrony with medial structures located in ipsi‐ and contralateral hemispheres, with such pattern being mostly detectable for regions placed in the left hemisphere. The interactions with age and gender have been also tested, with different patterns for subjects above and below 25 years old and less homotopic connectivity in the prefrontal cortex and posterior midline regions in female participants with higher IQ scores. These findings support prior evidence suggesting a functional role for homotopic connectivity in human cognitive expression, promoting the reduction of synchrony between primary sensory regions as a predictor of higher intelligence levels. Hum Brain Mapp 36:3586–3602, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Gender and ethnic differences in incidence and survival of lymphoid neoplasm subtypes in anAsian population: Secular trends of a population‐based cancer registry from 1998 to 2012
Authors: Lim Raymond Boon Tar , Loy En Yun , Lim Gek Hsiang , Zheng Huili , Chow Khuan Yew , Lim Soon Thye
Published: June 2015

Descriptive epidemiology on incidence and survival by lymphoid neoplasm (LN) subtypes using the 2008 World Health Organisation (WHO) classification remained limited in Asia. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether gender and ethnic differences in incidence and survival of LN subtypes existed using the Singapore Cancer Registry (SCR) from 1998 to 2012. We derived age standardised incidence rates (ASIRs) by the direct standardisation method and 5‐year relative survival (RSR) by the Ederer II method and period approach. Five‐year observed survival (OS) was obtained for each ethnicity. Malays had the highest ASIR of total LNs among the three ethnicities for each time period. The largest increase in 5‐year RSR subtypes was follicular lymphoma from 43.8% in 1998–2002 to 82.3% in 2008–2012; followed by chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL)/small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) from 48.1% in 1998–2002 to 77.9% in 2008–2012. Although males had higher incidence than females in each time period, females had greater 5‐year RSR for follicular lymphoma (89.8% in 2008–2012 for femalesvs. 76.6% in 2008–2012 for males) and CLL/SLL (78.7% in 2008–2012 for femalesvs. 76.7% in 2008–2012 for males). All three ethnicities experienced an overall increase in 5‐year OS for mature B‐cell lymphoma, with Indians experiencing the greatest increase (37.1% in 1998–2002 to 61.1% in 2008–2012), followed by Malays (30.8% in 1998–2002 to 48.7% in 2008–2012) and then Chinese (36.4% in 1998–2002 to 51.3% in 2008–2012). Our study demonstrated that improved mature B‐cell lymphoma survival was not only observed in the West, but also in Singapore.
Effects of cannabinoids and their receptors on viral infections
Authors: Tahamtan Alireza , Tavakoli‐Yaraki Masoumeh , Rygiel Tomasz P. , Mokhtari‐Azad Talat , Salimi Vahid
Published: June 2015

Cannabinoids, the active ingredient in marijuana, and their derivatives have received remarkable attention in the last two decades because they can affect tumor growth and metastasis. There is a large body of evidence from in vivo and in vitro models showing that cannabinoids and their receptors influence the immune system, viral pathogenesis, and viral replication. The present study reviews current insights into the role of cannabinoids and their receptors on viral infections. The results reported here indicate that cannabinoids and their receptors have different sequels for viral infection. Although activation or inhibition of cannabinoid receptors in the majority of viral infections are proper targets for development of safe and effective treatments, caution is required before using pharmaceutical cannabinoids as a treatment agent for patients with viral infections. J. Med. Virol. 88:1–12, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Near infrared Raman spectroscopic characterization of blood plasma of normal, oral premalignant and malignant conditions—a pilot study
Authors: Rekha Pachaiappan , Aruna Prakasarao , Bharanidharan Ganesan , Koteeswaran Dornadula , Baludavid Munusamy , Ganesan Singaravelu
Published: June 2015

The metabolic end products from cells/tissues that are released into the circulating blood stream and any changes in their level because of pathological conditions may be used as markers in disease diagnosis. Raman spectroscopy has been exploited to characterize the biomolecules present in the blood plasma of clinically confirmed normal group, premalignant (Oral Sub Mucous Fibrosis) and malignant (Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma) at 784.15 nm. Raman spectral signatures show relatively less intense Raman bands of phenylalanine, lipid and antioxidant beta carotene but higher intense bands for proteins, DNA base components and amino acids (tyrosine and tryptophan) for malignant group than that of normal group. However premalignant group possess high intense Raman bands for amino acids (tyrosine and tryptophan) at 830, 1020 and 1620 cm−1 and protein peaks at 913, 978 and 1646 cm−1 when compared to that of malignant and normal group. Principal component analysis coupled with linear discriminant analysis (PCA‐LDA) yielded a diagnostic sensitivity of 96.3% and 91.2%, and a specificity of 80.0% and 96.7% in the classification of normal from premalignant and normal from malignant, respectively. This indicates that Raman spectroscopy of blood plasma has the potential in classifying normal and oral malignancy conditions. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of portable Raman instruments with 532 and 785‐nm excitation for identification of zeolites and beryllium containing silicates
Authors: Jehlička Jan , Vandenabeele Peter
Published: June 2015

In this short paper we present Raman spectra of minerals of the group of zeolites and beryllium containing silicates (thomsonite, stilbite, natrolite, euclase, phenakite, bavenite, milarite and beryl) obtained indoors/outdoors on a collection of samples using a portable 532‐nm/785‐nm systems. This study complements a previous one in which one of the first handheld 785‐nm excitation instruments was tested. To our knowledge this is the first time that a handheld Raman spectrometer equipped with a 532‐nm laser as well as a portable dual instrument with 532/785‐nm excitation was used in mineralogy. For the major findings of the zeolites investigated, the most intense Raman bands are found at correct positions +/−2–4 cm−1. Although acceptable results were obtained using the 532‐nm excitations with both the instruments (the strongest bands are well developed and these bands permit the unambiguous identification), the use of the near‐infrared excitation can especially be recommended (higher number of bands at correct positions, spectra with a S/N similar to laboratory spectrometers). Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of Maillard reaction on flavor and safety of Chinese traditional food: roast duck
Authors: Zhou Yiming , Xie Fan , Zhou Xiaoli , Wang Yuqiang , Tang Wen , Xiao Ying
Published: June 2015

BACKGROUND

Roast duck is one kind of representative roast food whose flavor is mainly produced by the Maillard reaction. However, some potentially toxic compounds are generated in the thermal process and are a potential health risk. The aim of this work was to analyze the effects of the Maillard reaction on flavor and safety of a Chinese traditional food: roast duck.

RESULTS

Ducks with different roasting times (0, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 min) were analyzed. The 40 and 50 min roast ducks exhibited an acceptable degree of sensory attributes, but the 60 min roast duck showed the most abundant aroma compounds. Antioxidant activities were observed to increase with roasting, and the 60 min roast duck showed the highest antioxidant activities (1,1‐diphenylpicryhydrazyl, 39.3 µmol Trolox g−1 sample). The highest content of acrylamide (0.21 µg g−1) and 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (0.089 µg g−1) were detected in the 50 and 60 min roast duck extract, respectively. Furthermore, water extract from 60 min roast ducks manifested a higher lactose dehydrogenase release ratio (51.9%) and greatly increased cell apoptosis.

CONCLUSION

The drastic Maillard reaction in duck induced by long roasting time could be advantageous for color, aroma and antioxidant activities in roast ducks, but might be not beneficial to health. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Alteration and localization of glycan‐binding proteins in human hepatic stellate cells during liver fibrosis
Authors: Zhong Yaogang , Qin Yannan , Dang Liuyi , Jia Liyuan , Zhang Zhiwei , Wu Haoxiang , Cui Jihong , Bian Huijie , Li Zheng
Published: June 2015

Glycan‐binding proteins (GBPs) play an important role in cell adhesion, bacterial/viral infection, and cellular signaling pathways. However, little is known about the precision alteration of GBPs referred to pathological changes in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) during liver fibrosis. Here, the carbohydrate microarrays were used to probe the alteration of GBPs in the activated HSCs and quiescent HSCs. As a result, 12 carbohydrates (e.g. Gal, GalNAc, and Man‐9Glycan) showed increased signal, while seven carbohydrates (e.g. NeuAc, Lac, and GlcNAc‐O‐Ser) showed decreased signal in activated HSCs. Three carbohydrates (Gal, GalNAc, and NeuAc) were selected and subsequently used to validate the results of the carbohydrate microarrays as well as assess the distribution and localization of their binding proteins in HSCs and liver tissues by cy/histochemistry; the results showed that GBPs mainly distributed in the cytoplasma membrane and perinuclear region of cytoplasm. The immunocytochemistry was further used to verify some GBPs really exist in Golgi apparatus of the cells. The precision alteration and localization of GBPs referred to pathological changes in HSCs may provide pivotal information to help understand the biological functions of glycans how to exert through their recognition by a wide variety of GBPs. This study could lead to the development of new anti‐fibrotic strategies.
Cellular stage specific functional analysis of REX1: In human embryonic stem cells
Authors: Kim Yong Jun , Lee Gabsang
Published: June 2015

As transcription and translation are dynamic and can vary among the cell types and conditions, proteomics may reveal the tissue‐specific functions of a protein, more relevant to its genuine functions on cellular mechanisms. The new proteome analysis by Son et al. [Proteomics 2015, 15, 2220–2229] identified the functions of the pluripotency marker protein, REX1 in hESCs, and unraveling its regulatory network orchestrating pluripotency. Compared to the previous transcriptome analysis that showed mechanisms irrelevant to pluripotency, Son et al. employed a proteome analysis determined convincing and meaningful mechanisms of REX. In addition to demonstrating the biological importance of REX1, this research by Son et al. is also a compelling example of the conceptual significance of connecting proteomics with stem cell biology.
Couples coping with cancer: exploration of theoretical frameworks from dyadic studies
Authors: Regan Tim W. , Lambert Sylvie D. , Kelly Brian , Falconier Mariana , Kissane David , Levesque Janelle V.
Published: June 2015

Objective

A diagnosis of cancer and subsequent treatment are distressing not only for the person directly affected, but also for their intimate partner. The aim of this review is to (a) identify the main theoretical frameworks underpinning research addressing dyadic coping among couples affected by cancer, (b) summarise the evidence supporting the concepts described in these theoretical frameworks, and (c) examine the similarities and differences between these theoretical perspectives.

Methods

A literature search was undertaken to identify descriptive studies published between 1990 and 2013 (English and French) that examined the interdependence of patients' and partners' coping, and the impact of coping on psychosocial outcomes. Data were extracted using a standardised form and reviewed by three of the authors.

Results

Twenty‐three peer‐reviewed manuscripts were identified, from which seven theoretical perspectives were derived: Relationship‐Focused Coping, Transactional Model of Stress and Coping, Systemic‐Transactional Model (STM) of dyadic coping, Collaborative Coping, Relationship Intimacy model, Communication models, and Coping Congruence. Although these theoretical perspectives emphasised different aspects of coping, a number of conceptual commonalities were noted.

Conclusion

This review identified key theoretical frameworks of dyadic coping used in cancer. Evidence indicates that responses within the couple that inhibit open communication between partner and patient are likely to have an adverse impact on psychosocial outcomes. Models that incorporate the interdependence of emotional responses and coping behaviours within couples have an emerging evidence base in psycho‐oncology and may have greatest validity and clinical utility in this setting. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Autonomous Exploration and Motion Planning for an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Navigating Rivers
Authors: Nuske Stephen , Choudhury Sanjiban , Jain Sezal , Chambers Andrew , Yoder Luke , Scherer Sebastian , Chamberlain Lyle , Cover Hugh , Singh Sanjiv
Published: June 2015

Mapping a river's geometry provides valuable information to help understand the topology and health of an environment and deduce other attributes such as which types of surface vessels could traverse the river. While many rivers can be mapped from satellite imagery, smaller rivers that pass through dense vegetation are occluded. We develop a micro air vehicle (MAV) that operates beneath the tree line, detects and maps the river, and plans paths around three‐dimensional (3D) obstacles (such as overhanging tree branches) to navigate rivers purely with onboard sensing, with no GPS and no prior map. We present the two enabling algorithms for exploration and for 3D motion planning. We extract high‐level goal‐points using a novel exploration algorithm that uses multiple layers of information to maximize the length of the river that is explored during a mission. We also present an efficient modification to the SPARTAN (Sparse Tangential Network) algorithm called SPARTAN‐lite, which exploits geodesic properties on smooth manifolds of a tangential surface around obstacles to plan rapidly through free space. Using limited onboard resources, the exploration and planning algorithms together compute trajectories through complex unstructured and unknown terrain, a capability rarely demonstrated by flying vehicles operating over rivers or over ground. We evaluate our approach against commonly employed algorithms and compare guidance decisions made by our system to those made by a human piloting a boat carrying our system over multiple kilometers. We also present fully autonomous flights on riverine environments generating 3D maps over several hundred‐meter stretches of tight winding rivers.
Brief report: The bystander effect in cyberbullying incidents
Authors: Machackova Hana , Dedkova Lenka , Mezulanikova Katerina
Published: June 2015

This study examined the bystander effect in cyberbullying. Using self‐reported data from 257 Czech respondents who had witnessed a cyberbullying attack, we tested whether provided help decreased with increased number of other bystanders. We controlled for several individual and contextual factors, including empathy, social self‐efficacy, empathic response to victimization, and relationship to the victim. Results showed that participants tend to help the victims more in incidents with only one or two other bystanders. We also found that, as in the “offline” realm, bystander effect is not linear: no significant differences were found between incidents with a moderate number (3‐10) and a larger number of total bystanders. Our findings, thus, provide support for the presence of the bystander effect in cyberbullying.
The Unsuspected Circles. On the Late Recognition of Southern Iberian Neolithic and Chalcolithic Ditched Enclosures
Authors: Jiménez-Jáimez Víctor
Published: June 2015

Neolithic ditched enclosures appear to be widely distributed across Central and Western Europe, and from the Mediterranean area to Scandinavia. They have been known in areas of Europe for a long time, but particularly in the last 25 years studies on British, French, Central European, and Scandinavian ditched enclosures have flourished. In line with this, a number of international meetings occurred in the last three decades. In southern Iberia, by contrast, ditched enclosures only began to be known in the 1970s, and even then methodological deficiencies and lack of funding hampered their characterisation. As a consequence of this, Iberian Neolithic and Copper Age ditched enclosures were largely unknown outside Portugal and Spain. They were not represented in any of the international meetings above, nor included in any of the syntheses made about the topic. Not only that, for decades, Spanish and Portuguese archaeologists were not aware of the potential analogies themselves, and the research that was being carried out elsewhere in Europe had almost no influence on the way ditched enclosures were surveyed, excavated, and interpreted in the peninsula. The main objective of this article is to advance the recognition of the southern Iberian evidence by other European researchers and the integration of the Iberian conversation into the general discussion. The focus will be on how these sites have been studied by several generations of Iberian archaeologists, in an attempt to explain why it has taken Portuguese and Spanish archaeologists so long to realise that Iberian enclosures should not be understood in isolation.
Influence of fish oil supplementation and strength training on some functional aspects of immune cells in healthy elderly women
Authors: de Lourdes Nahhas Rodacki Cintia , Rodacki André Luiz Felix , Coelho Isabela , Pequito Daniele , Krause Maressa , Bonatto Sandro , Naliwaiko Katya , Fernandes Luiz Cláudio
Published: June 2015

Immune function changes with ageing and is influenced by physical activity (strength training, ST) and diet (fish oil, FO). The present study investigated the effect of FO and ST on the immune system of elderly women. Forty-five women (64 (sd 1·4) years) were assigned to ST for 90 d (ST; n 15), ST plus 2 g/d FO for 90 d (ST90; n 15) or 2 g/d FO for 60 d followed by ST plus FO for 90 d (ST150; n 15). Training was performed three times per week, for 12 weeks. A number of innate (zymosan phagocytosis, lysosomal volume, superoxide anion, peroxide of hydrogen) and adaptive (cluster of differentiation 4 (CD4), CD8, TNF-α, interferon-γ (IFN-γ), IL-2, IL-6 and IL-10 produced by lymphocytes) immune parameters were assessed before supplementation (base), before (pre-) and after (post-) training. ST induced no immune changes. FO supplementation caused increased phagocytosis (48 %), lysosomal volume (100 %) and the production of superoxide anion (32 %) and H2O2 (70 %) in the ST90. Additional FO supplementation (ST150) caused no additive influence on the immune system, as ST150 and ST90 did not differ, but caused greater changes when compared to the ST (P< 0·05). FO increased CD4+ and CD8+ lymphocytes in the ST150, which remained unchanged when training was introduced. The combination of ST and FO reduced TNF-α in the ST150 from base to post-test. FO supplementation (ST150, base–pre) when combined with exercise (ST150, pre–post) increased IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-6 and IL-10 production. The immune parameters improved in response to FO supplementation; however, ST alone did not enhance the immune system.
Two LIPs and two Earth-system crises: the impact of the North Atlantic Igneous Province and the Siberian Traps on the Earth-surface carbon cycle
Authors: SAUNDERS ANDREW D.
Published: June 2015

The links between the Siberian Traps and the end-Permian mass extinction, and between the North Atlantic igneous province (NAIP) and the Paleocene–Eocene thermal maximum (PETM), demonstrate a critical role for large igneous provinces (LIPs) in the disruption of the Earth-surface carbon cycle (ESCC). High-precision ages for both volcanic provinces and the associated environmental crises show that, in both cases, the crisis was contemporaneous with the volcanism. The NAIP comprises two phases: the earlier Phase 1 (c. 61 Ma) and the much more voluminous Phase 2 (c. 56 Ma), linked to the opening of the NE Atlantic. The latter triggered the PETM, the largest Cenozoic hyperthermal. The Siberian Traps are significantly more voluminous than the NAIP, and triggered the end-Permian mass extinction. The masses of volcanic CO2emitted from these provinces may have been much greater than previously suggested as substantial gas may come from intrusive bodies deep within the crust. Precursory warming due to the accumulation of volcanic CO2in the atmosphere likely triggered the release of low-δ13C methane hydrate, although the masses of methane hydrate alone may have been insufficient to account for the observed temperature rises. The organic C was likely strongly supplemented by magmatically derived carbon and thermogenic carbon released during emplacement of sills and dykes into C-rich sedimentary units. More data are required on the volcanic flux rates in order to refine the cause–effect relationships between LIPs and the ESCC.
The Late Roman Field Army in Northern Britain? Mobility, Material Culture and Multi-Isotope Analysis at Scorton (N Yorks.)
Authors: Eckardt Hella , Müldner Gundula , Speed Greg
Published: June 2015

At Hollow Banks Quarry, Scorton, located just north of Catterick (N Yorks.), a highly unusual group of 15 late Roman burials was excavated between 1998 and 2000. The small cemetery consists of almost exclusively male burials, dated to the fourth century. An unusually large proportion of these individuals was buried with crossbow brooches and belt fittings, suggesting that they may have been serving in the late Roman army or administration and may have come to Scorton from the Continent. Multi-isotope analyses (carbon, nitrogen, oxygen and strontium) of nine sufficiently well-preserved individuals indicate that seven males, all equipped with crossbow brooches and/or belt fittings, were not local to the Catterick area and that at least six of them probably came from the European mainland. Dietary (carbon and nitrogen isotope) analysis only of a tenth individual also suggests a non-local origin. At Scorton it appears that the presence of crossbow brooches and belts in the grave was more important for suggesting non-British origins than whether or not they were worn. This paper argues that cultural and social factors played a crucial part in the creation of funerary identities and highlights the need for both multi-proxy analyses and the careful contextual study of artefacts.
No children in later life, but more and better friends? Substitution mechanisms in the personal and support networks of parents and the childless in Germany
Authors: SCHNETTLER SEBASTIAN , WÖHLER THOMAS
Published: June 2015

Given increases in childlessness, we ask if and how the permanently childless substitute for adult children in their later-life support networks. Previous research finds that they are disadvantaged on several network and support indicators. Yet, the role of different substitution mechanisms remains unclear. We examine two substitution mechanisms: substitution through adjustments of network size/composition and through higher efficiency of personal ties. Data are from the German Ageing Survey (childless: N = 1,886; parents without/with residentially proximate children: N = 4,437/8,337). Our descriptive and regression results on network size/composition and the number of potential informational and emotional supporters show that both mechanisms play a role: the childless have more friends and extended kin, and they are more likely to consider them as potential supporters, than parents. Across cohorts or age groups, the relative effect size of network size/compositionversustie efficiency changes. Parents with no children nearby constitute a mixed type that shows similarities to the childless on some indicators of social support and to parents with at least one child nearby on other indicators. Our findings provide a foundation for better predicting how current demographic trends affect future scenarios of social support in later life and for identifying the future need for formal care services. Thus, they are relevant for social scientists and policy makers alike.
Why Managers Fail to do the Right Thing: An Empirical Study of Unethical and Illegal Conduct
Authors: Craig Smith N. , Simpson Sally S. , Huang Chun-Yao
Published: June 2015

We combine prior research on ethical decision-making in organizations with a rational choice theory of corporate crime from criminology to develop a model of corporate offending that is tested with a sample of U.S. managers. Despite demands for increased sanctioning of corporate offenders, we find that the threat of legal action does not directly affect the likelihood of misconduct. Managers’ evaluations of the ethics of the act, measured using a multidimensional ethics scale, have a significant effect, as do outcome expectancies that result from being associated with the misconduct but not facing formal sanctions. The threat of formal sanctions appears to operate indirectly, influencing ethical evaluations and outcome expectancies. Obedience to authority also affects illegal intentions, with managers reporting higher prospective offending when they are ordered to engage in misconduct by a supervisor.
Citizenship, Inc. Do We Really Want Businesses to Be Good Corporate Citizens?
Authors: Néron Pierre-Yves , Norman Wayne
Published: June 2015

Are there any advantages to thinking and speaking about ethical business in the language of citizenship? We will address this question in part by looking at the possible relevance of a vast literature on individual citizenship that has been produced by political philosophers over the last fifteen years. Some of the central elements of citizenship do not seem to apply straightforwardly to corporations. E.g., “citizenship” typically implies membership in a state and an identity akin to national identity; but this connotation of citizenship is obviously problematic for multinational corporations. However, the language of citizenship does help to focus our attention on various legal and political virtues (or vices) for corporations—topics that have been largely neglected by discussions under other rubrics, such as CSR or sustainability. We finish with an evaluation of the potential benefits and costs of conceptualizing and talking about ethical business practices in the language of citizenship.
Empirically derived dietary patterns in relation to psychological disorders
Authors: Hosseinzadeh Mahdieh , Vafa Mohammadreza , Esmaillzadeh Ahmad , Feizi Awat , Majdzadeh Reza , Afshar Hamidreza , Keshteli Ammar Hassanzadeh , Adibi Peyman
Published: June 2015

Objective

Psychological disorders are highly prevalent worldwide. The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between major dietary patterns and prevalence of psychological disorders in a large sample of Iranian adults.

Design

A cross-sectional study was done to identify dietary patterns derived from factor analysis. Dietary data were collected through the use of a validated dish-based semi-quantitative FFQ. Psychological health was examined by use of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and the General Health Questionnaire.

Setting

The study was conducted in Isfahan, Iran, within the framework of the Study on Epidemiology of Psychological, Alimentary Health and Nutrition (SEPAHAN).

Subjects

Iranian adults (n 3846) aged 20–55 years.

Results

After adjustment for potential confounders, greater adherence to the lacto-vegetarian dietary pattern was protectively associated with depression in women (OR=0·65; 95 % CI 0·46, 0·91). Normal-weight participants in the top quintile of this dietary pattern tended to have decreased odds of anxiety compared with those in the bottom quintile (OR=0·61; 95 % CI 0·38, 1·00). In addition, the traditional dietary pattern was associated with increased odds of depression (OR=1·42; 95 % CI 1·01, 1·99) and anxiety (OR=1·56; 95 % CI 1·00, 2·42) in women. Normal-weight participants in the highest quintile of the traditional dietary pattern had greater odds for anxiety (OR=1·89; 95 % CI 1·12, 3·08) compared with those in the lowest quintile. The Western dietary pattern was associated with increased odds of depression in men (OR=1·73; 95 % CI 1·07, 2·81) and anxiety in normal-weight participants (OR=2·05; 95 % CI 1·22, 3·46). There was a significant increasing trend in the odds of psychological distress across increasing quintiles of the fast food dietary pattern in women (P-trend=0·02).

Conclusions

Recommendation to increase the intake of fruits, citrus fruits, vegetables, tomato and low-fat dairy products and to reduce the intakes of snacks, high-fat dairy products, chocolate, carbonated drinks, sweets and desserts might be associated with lower chance of psychological disorders.
Why healthcare providers merge
Authors: Postma Jeroen , Roos Anne-Fleur
Published: June 2015

In many OECD countries, healthcare sectors have become increasingly concentrated as a result of mergers. However, detailed empirical insight into why healthcare providers merge is lacking. Also, we know little about the influence of national healthcare policies on mergers. We fill this gap in the literature by conducting a survey study on mergers among 848 Dutch healthcare executives, of which 35% responded (resulting in a study sample of 239 executives). A total of 65% of the respondents was involved in at least one merger between 2005 and 2012. During this period, Dutch healthcare providers faced a number of policy changes, including increasing competition, more pressure from purchasers, growing financial risks, de-institutionalisation of long-term care and decentralisation of healthcare services to municipalities. Our empirical study shows that healthcare providers predominantly merge to improve the provision of healthcare services and to strengthen their market position. Also efficiency and financial reasons are important drivers of merger activity in healthcare. We find that motives for merger are related to changes in health policies, in particular to the increasing pressure from competitors, insurers and municipalities.
Obesity, Metabolic Syndrome, and Dietary Therapeutical Approaches with a Special Focus on Nutraceuticals (Polyphenols): A Mini-Review
Authors: Ríos-Hoyo Alejandro , Cortés María J. , Ríos-Ontiveros Huguette , Meaney Eduardo , Ceballos Guillermo , Gutiérrez-Salmeán Gabriela
Published: June 2015

More than half of all global deaths in 2010 were related to non-communicable diseases, including obesity, cancers, diabetes, and cardiovascular illnesses. It has been suggested that the alarming increase in the incidence of cardiovascular disease is the epidemiologic result of a nutrition transition characterized by dietary patterns featuring an increase in the intake of total fat, cholesterol, sugars, and other refined carbohydrates, concomitant with low consumption of polyunsaturated fatty acids and fiber. Although traditional dietary approaches have proven successful as part of the treatment for obesity and cardiometabolic derangements within clinical trial scenarios, they lack effectiveness in the long term, mainly due to poor compliance. Research has thus turned its attention to nutraceutics, nutrients that have the ability to modulate physiological and pathophysiological molecular mechanisms, thus resulting in favorable health outcomes. Polyphenols have been considered as among the bioactive molecules as they are thought to yield beneficial effects by exerting antioxidant activity; however, there are other - and even more robust - metabolic pathways through which polyphenols enhance cardiovascular health, such as via promoting vasodilatory, anti-atherogenic, antithrombotic, and anti-inflammatory effects. No standard dose has yet been determined, as the effects greatly vary among polyphenols and food sources; thus, there is an imperative need to generate more evidence in order to support dietary recommendations aimed at the prevention and therapeutics of obesity and its associated cardiometabolic diseases.
Successful Management of Type 2 Diabetes with Lifestyle Intervention: A Case Report
Authors: Liebhauser Martin , Ofner Michael , Mittermayer Friedrich
Published: June 2015

Background: The prevalence of diabetes is growing worldwide. The primary symptom of diabetes mellitus is elevated blood sugar. This is usually treated with lifestyle intervention and drugs according to an algorithm based on glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels. We present the case of a patient who successfully managed his type 2 diabetes solely through lifestyle modification. Case Report: A 45-year-old businessman with a body mass index of 27 kg / m2 was examined within a secondary prevention program in Austria. His HbA1c was 9.7 % - type 2 diabetes mellitus was diagnosed. General recommendations for lifestyle were given and metformin was prescribed. Upon his diagnosis the patient searched for all the information he could get about diabetes and implemented this new knowledge in his everyday life. He had a strong desire to defeat his disease and he wanted to stop using medications. He identified some nutritional ingredients and spices that affected his blood sugar in a positive way. He stopped taking metformin after 4 weeks and handled his diabetes with his personal lifestyle program. Three months after the diagnosis his HbA1c was 6.4 %; after 6 months he had an HbA1c of 6.0 % without the use of medication. Discussion: Usually, multiple drug therapy is necessary to handle high blood glucose levels. Our business manager ate as much as before his diagnosis but he modified the contents of his diet so that the lifestyle intervention was not hard for him. General recommendations for lifestyle modification usually include: more exercise, reduced sugar and monosaccharides, and less alcohol and nicotine. With the knowledge of the effects of specific dietary ingredients, it might be possible to modify a regular diet in such a way as to benefit people with type 2 diabetes, to substantially improve quality of life.
Cytoprotective Effect of Tocotrienol-Rich Fraction and α-Tocopherol Vitamin E Isoforms Against Glutamate-Induced Cell Death in Neuronal Cells
Authors: Rati Selvaraju Thilaga , Khazaai Huzwah , Vidyadaran Sharmili , Sokhini Abd Mutalib Mohd , Ramachandran Vasudevan , Hamdan Yasmin
Published: June 2015

Glutamate is the major mediator of excitatory signals in the mammalian central nervous system. Extreme amounts of glutamate in the extracellular spaces can lead to numerous neurodegenerative diseases. We aimed to clarify the potential of the following vitamin E isomers, tocotrienol-rich fraction (TRF) and α-tocopherol (α-TCP), as potent neuroprotective agents against glutamate-induced injury in neuronal SK-N-SH cells. Cells were treated before and after glutamate injury (pre- and post-treatment, respectively) with 100 - 300 ng/ml TRF/α-TCP. Exposure to 120 mM glutamate significantly reduced cell viability to 76 % and 79 % in the pre- and post-treatment studies, respectively; however, pre- and post-treatment with TRF/α-TCP attenuated the cytotoxic effect of glutamate. Compared to the positive control (glutamate-injured cells not treated with TRF/α-TCP), pre-treatment with 100, 200, and 300 ng/ml TRF significantly improved cell viability following glutamate injury to 95.2 %, 95.0 %, and 95.6 %, respectively (p < 0.05).The isomers not only conferred neuroprotection by enhancing mitochondrial activity and depleting free radical production, but also increased cell viability and recovery upon glutamate insult. Our results suggest that vitamin E has potent antioxidant potential for protecting against glutamate injury and recovering glutamate-injured neuronal cells. Our findings also indicate that both TRF and α-TCP could play key roles as anti-apoptotic agents with neuroprotective properties.
Vitamin D, Parathormone and Associated Minerals among Students in Zagazig District, Sharkia Governorate, Egypt
Authors: El Badawy Amal A. , Aboserea Mona M. , El Seifi Omnia S. , Mortada Eman M. , Bakry Huny M. , Waly Eman H. , Raafat Nermin , Etewa Rasha L. , El Badawy Samir A.
Published: June 2015

Aim: To determine the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and associated factors among students of age 13 - 18 years. Methods: Design: Community-based cross sectional survey. Setting: Two schools were selected using multistage sampling techniques. Sampling: Cluster sampling of all enrolled students (550 students). Outcome Measures: Serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25 OHD), parathyroid hormone and calcium. Data was collected about nutritional intake, physical activity and lifestyle variables that are potential risk factors for hypovitaminosis D. Results: Hypovitaminosis D prevalence was 23.8 %, of which 5.3 % was deficiency and 18.5 % insufficiency. Serum 25 OHD levels inversely correlated with parathyroid hormone levels (r = -0.206, P = 0.00). Low calcium and ionized calcium levels were 40.6 % and 45.9 %, respectively, and significantly correlated with vitamin D levels. Female students have significantly higher levels of hypovitaminosis D compared to males (29.3 % to 15.0 %, respectively) and the level of vitamin D significantly improved with increased age. Exposure to sun had a significant effect on vitamin D levels, and physical activity, soft drink consumption and smoking did not. Multinomial regression analysis revealed that age, sun exposure and Ca level were the only significant independent predictors of hypovitaminosis D among the studied group. Conclusion: Our findings revealed that hypovitaminosis D is a prevalent health problem in adolescents, especially girls, who were at higher risk, and increased age and sun exposure improved vitamin D status among the studied group. There is therefore a need to consider vitamin D supplementation for school children together with increased awareness through a health education program.
20-Hydroxyeicosatetraenoic Acid Inhibition by HET0016 Offers Neuroprotection, Decreases Edema, and Increases Cortical Cerebral Blood Flow in a Pediatric Asphyxial Cardiac Arrest Model in Rats
Authors: Shaik Jafar Sadik B , Poloyac Samuel M , Kochanek Patrick M , Alexander Henry , Tudorascu Dana L , Clark Robert SB , Manole Mioara D
Published: June 2015

Vasoconstrictive and vasodilatory eicosanoids generated after cardiac arrest (CA) may contribute to cerebral vasomotor disturbances and neurodegeneration. We evaluated the balance of vasodilator/vasoconstrictor eicosanoids produced by cytochrome P450 (CYP) metabolism, and determined their role on cortical perfusion, functional outcome, and neurodegeneration after pediatric asphyxial CA. Cardiac arrest of 9 and 12 minutes was induced in 16- to 18-day-old rats. At 5 and 120 minutes after CA, we quantified the concentration of CYP eicosanoids in the cortex and subcortical areas. In separate rats, we inhibited 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE) synthesis after CA and assessed cortical cerebral blood flow (CBF), neurologic deficit score, neurodegeneration, and edema. After 9 minutes of CA, vasodilator eicosanoids markedly increased versus sham. Conversely, after 12 minutes of CA, vasoconstrictor eicosanoid 20-HETE increased versus sham, without compensatory increases in vasodilator eicosanoids. Inhibition of 20-HETE synthesis after 12 minutes of CA decreased cortical 20-HETE levels, increased CBF, reduced neurologic deficits at 3 hours, and reduced neurodegeneration and edema at 48 hours versus vehicle-treated rats. In conclusion, cerebral vasoconstrictor eicosanoids increased after a pediatric CA of 12 minutes. Inhibition of 20-HETE synthesis improved cortical perfusion and short-term neurologic outcome. These results suggest that alterations in CYP eicosanoids have a role in cerebral hypoperfusion and neurodegeneration after CA and may represent important therapeutic targets.
Reduced Uptake of 18F-FDG and 15O-H2O in Alzheimer'S Disease-Related Regions after Glucose Loading
Authors: Ishibashi Kenji , Kawasaki Keiichi , Ishiwata Kiichi , Ishii Kenji
Published: June 2015

Increased plasma glucose levels are known to reduce fluorine-18-labeled fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) uptake in Alzheimer's disease (AD)-related regions, resulting in the appearance of an AD-like pattern. However, the relationships of its appearance with cerebral blood flow and insulin levels are uncertain. We performed 18F-FDG and oxygen-15-labeled water (15O-H2O) positron emission tomography in the fasting and glucose-loading conditions on nine young healthy volunteers with no cognitive impairments. Measurement of plasma glucose and insulin levels confirmed that all subjects were free of insulin resistance, and that glucose loading significantly increased plasma glucose and insulin levels. Fluorine-18-labeled fluorodeoxyglucose and 15O-H2O images were compared between the two conditions, focusing on AD-related regions: precuneus/posterior cingulate (PP), lateral parietal cortex (LPC), and frontal cortex (FC). Volume-of-interest analyses showed significantly lower uptake of both 18F-FDG and 15O-H2O in PP, LPC, and FC after glucose loading ( P < 0.05). Whole-brain voxel-wise analyses also revealed the PP, LPC, and FC areas where uptake of both 18F-FDG and 15O-H2O decreased ( P < 0.05, familywise error rate-corrected). We concluded that increased plasma glucose and insulin levels can cause the appearance of the AD-like pattern in both 18F-FDG and 15O-H2O images, and this phenomenon can occur even in subjects without insulin resistance.
Positron Emission Tomography/Magnetic Resonance Hybrid Scanner Imaging of Cerebral Blood Flow Using 15O-Water Positron Emission Tomography and Arterial Spin Labeling Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Newborn Piglets
Authors: Andersen Julie B , Henning William S , Lindberg Ulrich , Ladefoged Claes N , Højgaard Liselotte , Greisen Gorm , Law Ian
Published: June 2015

Abnormality in cerebral blood flow (CBF) distribution can lead to hypoxic–ischemic cerebral damage in newborn infants. The aim of the study was to investigate minimally invasive approaches to measure CBF by comparing simultaneous 15O-water positron emission tomography (PET) and single TI pulsed arterial spin labeling (ASL) magnetic resonance imaging (MR) on a hybrid PET/MR in seven newborn piglets. Positron emission tomography was performed with IV injections of 20 MBq and 100 MBq 15O-water to confirm CBF reliability at low activity. Cerebral blood flow was quantified using a one-tissue-compartment-model using two input functions: an arterial input function (AIF) or an image-derived input function (IDIF). The mean global CBF (95% CI) PET-AIF, PET-IDIF, and ASL at baseline were 27 (23; 32), 34 (31; 37), and 27 (22; 32) mL/100 g per minute, respectively. At acetazolamide stimulus, PET-AIF, PET-IDIF, and ASL were 64 (55; 74), 76 (70; 83) and 79 (67; 92) mL/100 g per minute, respectively. At baseline, differences between PET-AIF, PET-IDIF, and ASL were 22% ( P < 0.0001) and −0.7% ( P = 0.9). At acetazolamide, differences between PET-AIF, PET-IDIF, and ASL were 19% ( P = 0.001) and 24% ( P = 0.0003). In conclusion, PET-IDIF overestimated CBF. Injected activity of 20 MBq 15O-water had acceptable concordance with 100 MBq, without compromising image quality. Single TI ASL was questionable for regional CBF measurements. Global ASL CBF and PET CBF were congruent during baseline but not during hyperperfusion.