bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quality characteristics of frozen brown rice Jeung-pyun dough containing different amounts of acorn flour
Authors: Jeong Sang-Yeol , Lee Min-Kyoung , Gwag Jung Soon , Lee Sook-Young
Published: September 2016

In this study, physicochemical properties of acorn flour was investigated, and characteristics of the Jeung-pyun dough added with the acorn flour at various concentrations were evaluated after storage at -18℃ for 4 weeks and fermentation. Total polyphenolic content, electron donating ability (EDA) of 0.5%, gelatinization onset temperature (To), gelatinization peak temperature (Tp), and gelatinization conclusion temperature (Tc) of acorn flour were 3,525.12 mg%, 16.71%, 68.41℃, 73.83℃, and 82.96℃, respectively. These all values were increased in the Jeung-pyun dough possibly due to addition of the acorn flour. The yeast count was not affected by the addition levels of acorn flour and the frozen storage period before fermentation. The amount of carbon dioxide gas evolved from Jeung-pyun dough during fermentation was significantly changed with the concentration of acorn flour, but it was negligible. The Jeung-pyun added with 6% acorn flour showed an small increase in the amount of carbon dioxide after frozen storage of 1 wk and fermentation. The pH of the fermented Jeung-pyun samples decreased along with the increasing storage period as well as the increasing acorn flour content, ranging from 4.21 to 5.34. Therefore, the frozen Jeung-pyun dough containing 6~15% of acorn flour and stored for 3 weeks was the most desirable among all the tested samples in this study.
In-field metagenome and 16S rRNA gene amplicon nanopore sequencing robustly characterize glacier microbiota
Authors: Edwards Arwyn , Debbonaire Aliyah R. , Nicholls Samuel M. , Rassner Sara M.E. , Sattler Birgit , Cook Joseph M. , Davy Tom , Soares André , Mur Luis A.J. , Hodson Andrew J.
Published: September 2016

In the field of observation, chance favours only the prepared mind (Pasteur). Impressive developments in genomics have led microbiology to its third “Golden Age”. However, conventional metagenomics strategies necessitate retrograde transfer of samples from extreme or remote environments for later analysis, rendering the powerful insights gained retrospective in nature, striking a contrast with Pasteur’s dictum. Here we implement highly portable USB-based nanopore DNA sequencing platforms coupled with field-adapted environmental DNA extraction, rapid sequence library generation and off-line analyses of shotgun metagenome and 16S ribosomal RNA gene amplicon profiles to characterize microbiota dwelling within cryoconite holes upon Svalbard glaciers, the Greenland Ice Sheet and the Austrian Alps. We show in-field nanopore sequencing of metagenomes captures taxonomic composition of supraglacial microbiota, while 16S rRNA Furthermore, comparison of nanopore data with prior 16S rRNA gene V1-V3 pyrosequencing from the same samples, demonstrates strong correlations between profiles obtained from nanopore sequencing and laboratory based sequencing approaches. gene amplicon sequencing resolves bacterial community responses to habitat changes. Finally, we demonstrate the fidelity and sensitivity of in-field sequencing by analysis of mock communities using field protocols. Ultimately, in-field sequencing potentiated by nanopore devices raises the prospect of enhanced agility in exploring Earth’s most remote microbiomes.
When two heads are better than one
Authors: Na Kyoungsik , Lee Jisu
Published: September 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the differences between collaborative and individual search techniques in a scenario-based task focussed on query behavior, cognitive load, search time, and task type about the search.

Design/methodology/approach

To help understand the influences on searching for relevant information in pairs or individual contexts, the authors conducted an exploratory user study with 30 participants, using two search tasks completed in a controlled laboratory setting.

Findings

On the basis of the analysis, the authors found that collaborative search teams resulted in more queries, more diverse query terms, and more varied query results compared to those working individually. The study results indicated that the cognitive load imposed on the participants did not differ between a collaborative search and an individual search except for the component of performance on the NASA Task Load Index. The results further showed that the total search time was a significant difference on average between the two conditions (i.e. individual information search and collaborative information search) for the second task. And there were significant differences of the mean of total search time between the two tasks for the both conditions. The authors also found that there was no significant relationship between query behavior and the total cognitive load.

Originality/value

The findings from this study have implications for a better understanding of collaborative search interface design, searchers’ cognitive load, query behavior, and general collaborative information search.
Canadian public libraries and search engines: barriers to visibility
Authors: Dickinson Zoe , Smit Michael
Published: September 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the challenges presented by search engine visibility for public libraries. The paper outlines the results of a pilot study investigating search engine visibility in two Canadian public libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

The study consists of semi-structured interviews with librarians from two multi-branch Canadian public library systems, combined with quantitative data provided by each library, as well as data obtained through site-specific searches in Google and Bing. Possible barriers to visibility are identified through thematic analysis of the interviews.

Findings

The initial findings of this pilot study identify a complex combination of barriers to visibility on search engines, in the form of attitudes, policies, organizational structures, and technological difficulties.

Research limitations/implications

This paper describes a small, preliminary pilot study. More research is needed before any firm conclusions can be reached.

Practical implications

A review of the literature shows the increasing importance of search engine visibility for public libraries. By delving into the underlying issues which may be affecting libraries’ progress on the issue, this paper may help inform libraries’ decision-making processes and practices.

Originality/value

There has been little original research investigating the reasons behind libraries’ lack of visibility in search engine results pages. This paper provides insight into a previously unexplored area by exploring public libraries’ relationships with search engines.
Measuring outcomes for TC clients: Higher Ground Drug Rehabilitation Trust
Authors: King Julian , Dow Johnny , Stevenson Brendan
Published: September 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the clinical outcome data collected as part of an 18-week, abstinence-based residential therapeutic community (TC) programme, Higher Ground Drug Rehabilitation Trust (Higher Ground) in New Zealand. Lessons and implications for routine collection of clinical outcome data are identified.

Design/methodology/approach

Higher Ground collects longitudinal data on all consenting clients using a battery of validated psychometric tools, with repeated measures at up to nine points in time from first presentation through to 12-month post-discharge follow up. Data analysis covered clients who entered Higher Ground between 1 July 2012 and 2 June 2015 (n=524).

Findings

Clients presented with histories of addiction which often had significant negative associations with their physical and psychological health, their relationships, work, accommodation and criminal behaviour. By the time they exited the programme, clinically and statistically significant improvements were seen across multiple indicators including: substance use and abstinence; symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety and stress; and a range of social indicators.

Research limitations/implications

Attrition in follow-up research is a significant challenge, with people completing the TC programme being more likely to participate than those who do not. This limits generalizability in post-discharge data. There was no control group, making causal attribution a challenge. Identifying suitable benchmarks from the literature is challenging because of the variety of outcome measures and research methodologies used.

Practical implications

Tracking client outcomes longitudinally using psychometric tools is potentially valuable for TCs and their funding bodies, as it provides insights into patterns of client recovery that can inform ongoing service improvements and resource allocation decisions. However, significant challenges remain.

Originality/value

The study demonstrates the value, and practical challenges, of collecting high-quality outcome data in a TC setting.
A therapeutic community training programme for Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Nelson Anna
Published: September 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore and develop appropriate responses to the workforce development needs of Aotearoa New Zealand Therapeutic Communities (TC).

Design/methodology/approach

Matua Raki took a workforce development design approach using principles of participatory/co-design.

Findings

A scoping exercise undertaken to explore the workforce development needs of Aotearoa New Zealand TC concluded that there was a shortage of addiction practitioners ready, willing and able to work in the TC environment and that a workforce development solution was desired by stakeholders. Following the scoping exercise a demand analysis found that there was a need for a TC training programme to be delivered in the Aotearoa New Zealand context. Outcome: a culturally appropriate TC training programme was developed in consultation with a wide range of stakeholders. The training programme was then piloted with a group of 23 practitioners. Evaluation of participant engagement and satisfaction indicated that the training programme was appropriate to both the needs of the workforce and the TC context.

Originality/value

The TC training, developed as a result of this workforce development design approach provides unique content and processes to meet the needs of the TC workforce in the New Zealand context.
Personal networks as a precursor to a green future: a study of “green” consumer socialization among young millennials from India and China
Authors: Muralidharan Sidharth , Xue Fei
Published: September 2016

Purpose

Millennials, an understudied segment of the sustainable market, are enthusiastic about adopting greener lifestyles but fail to translate pro-environmental attitudes to actual behavior, thus understanding factors that motivate their actual purchase of green products is imperative. Using the consumer socialization framework, the researchers studied the impacts of social structural variables (i.e. age, gender, education and family structure), socialization agents (i.e. family, peers and mass media) and environmental concern on the buying behaviors of millennials from two of the world’s most populous nations: India and China.

Design/methodology/approach

Using online panels (Amazon M-Turk and sojump.com), online surveys were administered to an online sample of millennials aged 18-24 years from India (n= 253) and China (n= 255).

Findings

Hierarchical regressions showed that peer communication predominantly influenced green buying behavior of millennials from India, while family communication was most important to Chinese millennials. Environmental concern, an attitudinal outcome, directly impacted behavior and also mediated the relationship between significant socialization agents and buying behavior in both countries.

Practical implications

Considering the importance given to peers (India) and family (China), green marketers have to use specialized strategies when marketing their products to millennials in India and China. Instead of focusing on mass media campaigns, the study highlights the importance of “personal” social networks to curb the environmental issues plaguing their respective countries.

Originality/value

The current study extends the literature on millennials’ green consumer behavior by exploring millennials in India and China. The consumer socialization framework has not been applied to countries like India and China, and to understand green consumerism, the role played by influential agents such as family and peers in these collectivistic cultures and their potential to change green attitudes and behavior warrants further exploration. The possibility of mediating effects has been represented by weak correlations between socio-demographic and psychological factors. Using the consumer socialization framework, the current study explores environmental concern (EC) as a mediator in the model.
Consumer based brand equity in the 21st century: an examination of the role of social media marketing
Authors: Yazdanparast Atefeh , Joseph Mathew , Muniz Fernanda
Published: September 2016

Purpose

The present research investigates the influence of brand-based social media marketing (SMM) activities on metrics of consumer-based brand equity (CBBE). Specifically, the study examines the role of consumer-brand social media experiences on attitude toward SMM activities of brands and its consequent impact on brand perceptions.

Design/methodology/approach

Paper-and-pencil surveys were administered to undergraduate students in a Southwestern university in exchange for extra credit. Survey questions were adapted from previously validated scales, and measurement adaptations were minimal and only related to the context of questions to assure their relevance with the context of this study. Bi-variate correlation, bootstrapping technique, Sobel test, ANOVA and linear regression were used to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The results indicate that brand-based SMM is essential in impacting consumers’ attitudes toward brands and consequently, CBBE reflected via perceived value for the cost, perceived uniqueness and the willingness to pay a price premium for a brand. Additionally, the main reason for individuals to use social media impacts their attitudes toward and receptiveness of SMM activities of brands.

Research limitations/implications

This study used a sample of college students to address the research questions. Considering the higher adoption rate and interest in social media among younger consumer groups, the results may not be representative of the entire population. Much of the existing research on social media, however, has focused on undergraduate college students and is primarily based on studies utilizing the similar research population.

Originality/value

The present research is one of the few studies that empirically examine the impact of consumer-brand interactions/experiences on consumers’ attitudes toward SMM activities of brands, as well as brand-related knowledge and perceptions as reflected by CBBE. The results indicate that the CBBE model of the twenty-first century should incorporate the role of brand-based SMM activities as facilitators of brand knowledge (i.e. brand awareness and brand image) by reinforcing or even shaping important brand-based associations.
Natural Disasters and Firms in Vietnam
Authors: Vu Tam B. , Noy Ilan
Published: September 2016

We investigate the consequences of natural disasters on operating firms in Vietnam, and find evidence of adverse effects of disasters on retail sales accompanied by increases in firm investment of very similar magnitude. There are important spatial differences, with the post‐disaster increase in investment unique to the largest cities and provinces with large urban concentrations. We find that more remote rural areas, especially in the North, experience declines in firm sales without the mitigating boost to investment in the disasters’ aftermath. The decline in firms’ sales does not appear to be associated with declines in household incomes in those regions.
Trait allometries generate super‐honesty in Anolis dewlaps and may underlie sexual dimorphism
Authors: PETELO Maria , SWIERK Lindsey
Published: September 2016

Whether or not sexually selected traits consistently exhibit positive allometry (i.e. are disproportionately large in larger individuals) is an ongoing debate. Multiple models and exceptions to this rule suggest that the underlying drivers of sexual trait allometry are nuanced. Here, we compare allometries of sexual and non‐sexual traits of a species (Anolis aquaticus) within a well‐studied lizard genus to test the competing hypotheses that sexual traits are, or are not, defined by positive allometry. We further consider the relationships of trait functions, which are relatively well understood in the genus Anolis, and allometry to identify potential drivers of allometric patterns. In particular, we explore how trait allometries interact to influence total organism function and generate sexual dimorphism. We quantified size (of targeted traits) and color of a sexual signal (the dewlap) in Anolis aquaticus in the field. The dewlap conveyed information relevant to intra‐sexual combat and exhibited positive allometry. Overall, our results suggest that using single‐trait allometries as indicators of past selection provides only an incomplete understanding of trait evolution. Although the function of positive allometry in some individual sexual signals (e.g. those conveying “super‐honest” information) may be straightforward, we illustrate how scaling relationships interact synergistically to influence the function of phenotypes and propose avenues for future research.
Presence of contagious yawning in sheep
Authors: Yonezawa Tomohiro , Sato Kohei , Uchida Mona , Matsuki Naoaki , Yamazaki Atusi
Published: September 2016

Contagious yawning is triggered by others yawning, and it has previously been reported in humans, primates and several experimental and companion mammals. Whereas it might be a response to an innate releasing mechanism, contagious yawning is also considered to involve emotional contagion. Here, we demonstrate that sheep, the animal model of livestock animals, also experience contagious yawning. Twelve adult castrated Corriedale sheep were used in this study. Pairs of sheep were adjacently restrained with or without a wooden divider panel to shield them from viewing the other. Their behaviors were video‐recorded for 3 days in each condition. Sheep yawned 2.0 ± 1.1 and 1.2 ± 1.1 times/day/head in the unshielded and shielded conditions, respectively. Unshielded restrained sheep yawned within 1 min after the other one 11.1% of the time, while shielded pairs did not exhibit contagious yawning. Rumination was also highly synchronized under the unshielded condition. These data reveal that contagious yawning and behavioral synchronicity occur in ruminants like sheep, making them a suitable animal model to investigate contagious yawning and the underlying mechanism.
Effects of nutritional status on hormone concentrations of the somatotropin axis and metabolites in plasma and colostrum of Japanese Black cows
Authors: Phomvisith Ouanh , Takahashi Hideyuki , Mai Ha Thi , Shiotsuka Yuji , Matsubara Atsuko , Sugino Toshihisa , Mcmahon Christopher D. , Etoh Tetsuji , Fujino Ryoichi , Furuse Mitsuhiro , Gotoh Takafumi
Published: September 2016

We aimed to determine the effects of nutritional status on concentrations of somatotropic axis hormones (growth hormone (GH) and insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF‐1)), insulin and metabolites (glucose, total protein and nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA)) in the plasma and colostrum in late antepartum cows. Eight pregnant Japanese Black cows were randomly assigned to two experimental groups (n = 4 per group). Control cows (CON) received 100% of their nutritional requirements until parturition, whereas restricted group cows (RES) received 60% of their nutritional requirements. Blood samples were taken during the antepartum period, and blood and colostrum samples were collected on days 0, 1, and 3 after calving. Compared to the CON group, the RES group had higher concentrations of GH and NEFA in plasma, but significantly lower concentrations of glucose and insulin in plasma. The concentrations of GH in plasma after calving were significantly higher, but total plasma protein was significantly lower in RES than in CON cows. Compared to the CON group, the RES group had significantly higher concentrations of GH in colostrum, but significantly lower total concentrations of protein in colostrum. Concentrations of IGF‐1 were not different between the two groups. These findings suggest that maternal nutritional status during late gestation influences concentrations of GH and total protein in the blood and colostrum of Japanese Black cows.
Consequences of Collaborative Governance in CSR: An Empirical Illustration of Strategic Responses to Institutional Pluralism and Some Theoretical Implications
Authors: Moratis Lars
Published: September 2016

Collaborative governance (CG) is becoming the common currency of decision‐making, able to surmount existing institutional constraints to effectively address challenges related to sustainability and social and environmental corporate behavior. CG approaches may however result in institutional complexity. As an illustration of CG in the domain of corporate social responsibility (CSR), the ISO 26000 standard is a legitimate point of reference for organizations worldwide. The standard represents a pluralistic institutional logic that resonates several tensions arising from the domain it tries to standardize, the nature of its development process, its interpretation of CSR and the type of standard it represents. This article aims to identify and examine strategic responses to ISO 26000 by various standards‐related organizations (including national standardization institutes, certification organizations, and service providers) and to contribute to the understanding of strategic responses of organizations to pluralistic institutional logics that result from CG.
Investigating Prevalence and Pattern of Long‐term Cardiovascular Disorders in Sulphur Mustard‐exposed Victims and Determining Proper Biomarkers for Early Defining, Monitoring and Analysis of Patients’ Feedback on Therapy
Authors: Darvishi Behrad , Panahi Yunes , Ghanei Mostafa , Farahmand Leila
Published: September 2016

Among the most readily existing chemical warfare agents, sulphur mustard (SM), also known as mustard gas, is the most commonly used agent owing to its ease of synthesis and stockpiling. Unprotected exposure mostly results in debilitation rather than lethal injuries, leaving an exposed victim incapacitated for days to even months. Although acute toxicity of sulphur mustard has been fairly established, the long‐term post‐exposure effects either chronic or short‐term but significant are still evolving. A total of 30,000 Iranian victims of the Iran–Iraq imposed war have now – after 30 years – formed the key population demonstrating long‐term effects from sulphur mustard exposure. Recent studies have shown that the prevalence of several long‐term cardiovascular disorders (CVDs) has significantly increased among SM‐exposed victims including coronary artery disorders (CAD), coronary artery ectasia (CAE), congestive heart failure (CHF) and myocardium abnormalities. The more important point is the lack of a determinant biomarker for early screening, recognizing, treating, monitoring and estimating exposed victims’ response to applied therapy. Additionally, unidentified risk factors significantly decrease the chance of a successful therapy and result in undesired failure of a comprehensive therapeutic strategy. In this MiniReview, we examined the literature in detail to evaluate relevant reports considering long‐term cardiovascular complications of SM, detecting possible risk factors and determining possible preventing events.
Lesion volume predicts prostate cancer risk and aggressiveness: validation of its value alone and matched with prostate imaging reporting and data system score
Authors: Martorana Eugenio , Pirola Giacomo Maria , Scialpi Michele , Micali Salvatore , Iseppi Andrea , Bonetti Luca Reggiani , Kaleci Shaniko , Torricelli Pietro , Bianchi Giampaolo
Published: September 2016

Objective

To demonstrate the association between magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) estimated lesion volume (LV), prostate cancer detection and tumour clinical significance, evaluating this variable alone and matched with Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System version 2 (PI‐RADS v2) score.

Patients and methods

We retrospectively analysed 157 consecutive patients, with at least one prior negative systematic prostatic biopsy, who underwent transperineal prostate MRI/ultrasonography fusion‐targeted biopsy between January 2014 and February 2016. Suspicious lesions were delineated using a ‘region of interest’ and the system calculated prostate volume and LV. Patients were divided in groups considering LV (≤0.5, 0.5–1, ≥1 mL) and PI‐RADS score (1–5). We considered clinically significant prostate cancer as all cancers with a Gleason score of ≥3 + 4 as suggested by PI‐RADS v2. A direct comparison between MRI estimated LV (MRI LV) and histological tumour volume (HTV) was done in 23 patients who underwent radical prostatectomy during the study period. Differences between MRI LV and HTV were assessed using the paired sample t‐test. MRI LV and HTV concordance was verified using a Bland–Altman plot. The chi‐squared test and logistic and ordinal regression models were used to evaluate difference in frequencies.

Results

The MRI LV and PI‐RADS score were associated both with prostate cancer detection (both P < 0.001) and with significant prostate cancer detection (P < 0.001 and P = 0.008, respectively). When the two variables were matched, increasing LV increased the risk within each PI‐RADS group. Prostate cancer detection was 1.4‐times higher for LVs of 0.5–1 mL and 1.8‐times higher for LVs of ≥1 mL; significant prostate cancer detection was 2.6‐times for LVs of 0.5–1 mL and 4‐times for LVs of ≥1 mL. There was a positive correlation between MRI LV and HTV (r = 0.9876, P < 0.001). Finally, Bland–Altman analysis showed that MRI LV was underestimated by 4.2% compared to HTV. Study limitations include its monocentric and retrospective design and the limited cohort.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that PI‐RADS score and the MRI LV, independently and in combination, are associated with prostate cancer detection and with tumour clinical significance.
Adult onset leukoencephalopathy with axonal spheroids and pigmented glia (ALSP) and Nasu–Hakola disease: lesion staging and dynamic changes of axons and microglial subsets
Authors: Oyanagi Kiyomitsu , Kinoshita Michiaki , Suzuki‐Kouyama Emi , Inoue Teruhiko , Nakahara Asa , Tokiwai Mika , Arai Nobutaka , Satoh Jun‐ichi , Aoki Naoya , Jinnai Kenji , Yazawa Ikuru , Arai Kimihito , Ishihara Kenji , Kawamura Mitsuru , Ishizawa Keisuke , Hasegawa Kazuko , Yagisita Saburo , Amano Naoji , Yoshida Kunihiro , Terada Seishi , Yoshida Mari , Akiyama Haruhiko , Mitsuyama Yoshio , Ikeda Shu‐ichi
Published: September 2016

The brains of 10 Japanese patients with adult onset leukoencephalopathy with axonal spheroids and pigmented glia (ALSP) encompassing hereditary diffuse leukoencephalopathy with axonal spheroids (HDLS) and pigmentary orthochromatic leukodystrophy (POLD) and eight Japanese patients with Nasu–Hakola disease (N‐HD) and five age‐matched Japanese controls were examined neuropathologically with special reference to lesion staging and dynamic changes of microglial subsets. In both diseases, the pathognomonic neuropathological features included spherically swollen axons (spheroids and globules), axon loss and changes of microglia in the white matter. In ALSP, four lesion stages based on the degree of axon loss were discernible: Stage I, patchy axon loss in the cerebral white matter without atrophy; Stage II, large patchy areas of axon loss with slight atrophy of the cerebral white matter and slight dilatation of the lateral ventricles; Stage III, extensive axon loss in the cerebral white matter and dilatation of the lateral and third ventricles without remarkable axon loss in the brainstem and cerebellum; Stage IV, devastated cerebral white matter with marked dilatation of the ventricles and axon loss in the brainstem and/or cerebellum. Internal capsule and pontine base were relatively well preserved in the N‐HD, even at Stage IV, and the swollen axons were larger with a higher density in the ALSP. Microglial cells immunopositive for CD68, CD163 or CD204 were far more obvious in ALSP, than in N‐HD, and the shape and density of the cells changed in each stage. With progression of the stage, clinical symptoms became worse to apathetic state, and epilepsy was frequently observed in patients at Stages III and IV in both diseases. From these findings, it is concluded that (i) shape, density and subsets of microglia change dynamically along the passage of stages and (ii) increase of IBA‐1‐, CD68‐, CD163‐ and CD204‐immunopositive cells precedes loss of axons in ALSP.
Anatomical, functional and quality‐of‐life results for mastoid and epitympanic obliteration with bioactive glass s53p4: a prospective clinical study
Authors: Bernardeschi D. , Pyatigorskaya N. , Russo F. Y. , De Seta D. , Corallo G. , Ferrary E. , Nguyen Y. , Sterkers O.
Published: September 2016

Objective

To analyse the anatomical, functional and quality‐of‐life results when using bioactive glass in mastoid and epitympanic obliteration.

Design

Prospective clinical study.

Setting

Tertiary referral centre.

Participants

Forty‐one cases (39 patients) operated between May 2013 and January 2015.

Main outcome measures

Anatomical results were evaluated by otomicroscopy 1 year after surgery and using imaging to detect residual disease. Functional results were studied by postoperative hearing gain. Quality of life was assessed with the Glasgow Benefit Inventory questionnaire and the success of surgery by a surgery‐specific questionnaire.

Results

At 1 year, all patients presented a well‐healed external auditory canal, with an intact tympanic membrane. In cases with cholesteatoma (n = 23), no recurrent retraction pockets or residual disease were observed on imaging studies. The overall air–bone gap closure was 7.7 ± 1.84 dB (mean ± se of the mean, P < 0.001, paired t‐test). No significant differences were found on hearing results when comparing primary versus revision surgery, canal‐wall‐up versus canal‐wall‐down obliterations, type of tympanoplasty and presence of cholesteatoma (multifactor anova). The Glasgow Benefit Inventory improved with an average score of 28 and the success of surgery questionnaire showed a significant improvement in ear discharge and a moderate improvement in hearing and equilibrium.

Conclusions

The use of bioactive glass for mastoid and epitympanic obliteration in canal‐wall‐down or canal‐wall‐up tympanoplasties is an effective procedure in both primary and revision surgery. The anatomical and functional results appear to be well correlated with patient experience and to the improvement in quality of life.
Application of a parametric model in the mortality risk analysis of ICU patients with severe COPD
Authors: He Hangyong , Sun Ying , Sun Bing , Zhan Qingyuan
Published: September 2016

Objective

To evaluate the mortality risk factors of patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in the intensive care unit (ICU) by utilizing parametric model of survival analysis, and to estimate patients' prognoses based on the risk and survival functions in the model.

Methods

The clinical data and outcomes of COPD patients admitted to a respiratory intensive care unit (RICU) at Beijing Chao‐Yang Hospital from January 2009 to June 2014 were prospectively collected. Based on the clinical outcomes, these patients were divided into a survival group and a death group. A univariate analysis was conducted to identify statistically significant variables. According to the distribution characteristics of these data, residual plots were prepared for an exponential model, a Weibull model and a Gamma model. The Gamma model was determined to be the best fitted for these data and was used as the analytical tool. Therefore, the variables with differences obtained from the univariate analysis were put into the Gamma model to determine the patients' mortality risk factors. The risk and survival functions were also generated according to the model formula.

Results

A total of 160 patients (111 survival, 49 death) were enrolled. The univariate analysis showed that, compared with the survival group, patients in the death group had higher Charlson Comorbidity Index score (CCI), higher body temperature, higher white blood cell counts, higher proportions of neutrophils, higher serum creatinine levels and higher pH levels; lower resting carbon dioxide pressure (PCO2); and more cases complicated with invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA). A further analysis with the Gamma model revealed that concurrent or non‐concurrent IPA, white blood cell count, pH level and PCO2 were associated with the patients' mortality risk and that the predicted value (PV) of the patients' mortality risk = 2.8655 + 0.4070 × IPA + 0.0048 × WBC + 0.0049 × pH − 0.0097 × PCO2. Moreover, the survival function formula was obtained according to the Gamma model: S(x) = 1 − I (0.7507 x, −3.3773), where I is an incomplete gamma function.

Conclusion

Formula generated from parametric model may help to predict the prognosis of patients with severe COPD in ICU, and this method need to be evaluated in further studies. According to our formula, IPA is an important risk factor of mortality for patients with severe COPD in the ICU.
Tannins fromPotentilla officinalisdisplay antiinflammatory effects in the UV erythema test and on atopic skin
Authors: Hoffmann Julia , Wölfle Ute , Schempp Christoph M. , Casetti Federica
Published: September 2016

Background

Rich in tannins, the rhizome ofPotentilla officinalis(PO) has traditionally been used in the topical treatment of inflammatory disorders of the skin and mucous membranes. The objective of the present study was to examine the antiinflammatory effects of PO in the UV erythema test as well as in patients with atopic skin.

Patients and methods

Using the UV erythema test, the antiinflammatory effects of a PO extract (2 %) – compared to 1 % hydrocortisone acetate – were assessed in a randomized, prospective, placebo‐controlled double‐blind study of 40 healthy volunteers. In the context of a prospective non‐controlled trial, the efficacy and tolerability of 2 % PO cream (applied to defined test areas twice daily for two weeks) was evaluated in twelve adults and twelve children with atopic skin using a partial SCORAD. In addition, the effects on the degree of erythema in the test areas was measured photometrically.

Results

In the UV erythema test, PO cream significantly reduced the erythema index compared to the vehicle. The antiinflammatory effects of PO cream were comparable to those of 1 % hydrocortisone acetate cream. The clinical study with atopic patients revealed a significant reduction in the partial SCORAD as well as erythema in the test areas. No adverse events were recorded.

Conclusions

PO cream displays antiinflammatory effectsin vivo. It is effective in and well tolerated by patients with atopic skin.
Mitoserate beim primären Melanom: Interobserver‐ und Intraobserver‐Reproduzierbarkeit am HE‐Schnitt und in der Immunhistologie
Authors: Garbe Claus , Eigentler Thomas K. , Bauer Jürgen , Blödorn‐Schlicht Norbert , Cerroni Lorenzo , Fend Falko , Hantschke Markus , Kurschat Peter , Kutzner Heinz , Metze Dieter , Mielke Volker , Preßler Harald , Reusch Michael , Reusch Ursula , Stadler Rudolf , Tronnier Michael , Yazdi Amir , Metzler Gisela
Published: September 2016

Hintergrund

Die Melanomklassifikation wurde 2009 durch die AJCC revidiert. Für die Klassifizierung primärer Melanome wurde als dritte Größe neben Tumordicke und Ulzeration die Angabe der Mitoserate neu eingeführt. Gemäß der AJCC‐2009‐Klassifikation des Melanoms führt der Nachweis nur einer oder mehrerer dermaler Tumormitosen bei Melanomen ≤ 1,0 mm Tumordicke zu einer Umgruppierung des Tumors von T1a nach T1b. Dies erklärt, wie wichtig die Frage nach der Reproduzierbarkeit dieses neuen Parameters ist.

Methoden

Zur Prüfung der Interobserver‐Reproduzierbarkeit der Mitoserate haben 17 Dermatopathologen und Pathologen, die in der Befundung des kutanen Melanoms sehr erfahren sind, die Mitoserate in 15 dünnen Melanomen mit einer mittleren Tumordicke von 0,91 mm an demselben Tumorschnitt bestimmt. Die Mitoserate wurde am HE‐Schnitt und immunhistologisch (IH) mittels des mitosespezifischen Antikörpers Phospho‐Histon‐H3 (Ser10) bestimmt. Fünf Befunder wiederholten die Bestimmung nach mehr als einem Jahr ohne Kenntnis ihres Vorbefundes zur Ermittlung der Intraobserver‐Reproduzierbarkeit.

Ergebnisse

Die Interobserver‐Reproduzierbarkeit der Mitoserate bei dünnen Melanomen ist unbefriedigend und unabhängig davon, ob die Mitoserate am HE‐Schnitt oder am immungefärbten Schnitt bestimmt wird (κ‐Werte: 0,088 [HE] bzw. 0,154 [IH]). Bei einer Diskriminationsschwelle von 0/1 vs. 2+ Mitosen verbesserte sich der κ‐Wert auf 0,345 (HE) bzw. 0,403 (IH). Die Intraobserver‐Reproduzierbarkeit lag mit κ‐Werten zwischen 0,18 und 0,348 je nach Befunder ebenfalls im unbefriedigenden Bereich.

Diskussion

Wegen der unbefriedigenden Reproduzierbarkeit und der großen Variation der Befunde zur Mitoserate bleibt es zweifelhaft, ob dieser Befund als Grundlage für Therapieentscheidungen herangezogen werden kann.
New developments in occupational dermatology
Authors: Diepgen Thomas L.
Published: September 2016

Occupational skin diseases according to BK No. 5101 – “severe or recurrent skin diseases which have forced the person to discontinue all occupational activities that caused or could cause the development, worsening, or recurrence of the disease” – is the most commonly reported notifiable occupational diseases in Germany. Following the optimization of measures of primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention, today most individuals affected are able to continue their profession. With the revision of the German ordinance on occupational diseases (BKV) in January 2015, skin cancer caused by UV irradiation was added to the list of occupational diseases. The new occupational disease (BK) 5103 is defined as “squamous cell carcinoma or multiple actinic keratoses of the skin caused by natural UV irradiation”. In this context, “multiple” signifies the occurrence of either more than five individual actinic keratosis lesions over the course of 12 months or the presence of field cancerization of > 4 cm2. In the following review, important aspects of this new occupational disease will be highlighted and discussed.
Vertical distribution of earwigs (Dermaptera: Forficulidae) in a temperate lowland forest, based on sampling with a mobile aerial lift platform
Authors: Kirstová Markéta , Pyszko Petr , Šipoš Jan , Drozd Pavel , Kočárek Petr
Published: September 2016

Although earwigs (Dermaptera) may be important components of ecosystems because of their locally high abundance and omnivory, their vertical distribution among forest strata is poorly understood. This study used a mobile aerial lift platform to survey the spatiotemporal distribution of earwigs along the vertical dimension in a forest. In 2013 and 2014, 57 trees in a lowland floodplain forest were sampled in the southeastern Czech Republic, Central Europe. Earwigs were collected along the complete vertical gradient of the foliage of the trees using square beating sheets and exhaustors. Of the three recorded earwig species (Apterygida media, Chelidura acanthopygia and Forficula auricularia), A. media was the most abundant. The distribution of its abundance with the height from ground (in the tree leaf layer) was unimodal, with a peak at 4–10 m, indicating that A. media is arboricolous. The vertical stratification of A. media differed among developmental stages, and in its abundance among tree species. Investigation of insect vertical stratification in forests should be facilitated by the use of a mobile aerial lift platform.
Projected shifts in fish species dominance in Wisconsin lakes under climate change
Authors: Hansen Gretchen J. A. , Read Jordan S. , Hansen Jonathan F. , Winslow Luke A.
Published: September 2016

Temperate lakes may contain both coolwater fish species such as walleye (Sander vitreus) and warmwater fish species such as largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). Recent declining walleye and increasing largemouth bass populations have raised questions regarding the future trajectories and management actions for these species. We developed a thermodynamic model of water temperatures driven by downscaled climate data and lake‐specific characteristics to estimate daily water temperature profiles for 2148 lakes in Wisconsin, US, under contemporary (1989–2014) and future (2040–2064 and 2065–2089) conditions. We correlated contemporary walleye recruitment and largemouth bass relative abundance to modeled water temperature, lake morphometry, and lake productivity, and projected lake‐specific changes in each species under future climate conditions. Walleye recruitment success was negatively related and largemouth bass abundance was positively related to water temperature degree days. Both species exhibited a threshold response at the same degree day value, albeit in opposite directions. Degree days were predicted to increase in the future, although the magnitude of increase varied among lakes, time periods, and global circulation models (GCMs). Under future conditions, we predicted a loss of walleye recruitment in 33–75% of lakes where recruitment is currently supported and a 27–60% increase in the number of lakes suitable for high largemouth bass abundance. The percentage of lakes capable of supporting abundant largemouth bass but failed walleye recruitment was predicted to increase from 58% in contemporary conditions to 86% by mid‐century and to 91% of lakes by late century, based on median projections across GCMs. Conversely, the percentage of lakes with successful walleye recruitment and low largemouth bass abundance was predicted to decline from 9% of lakes in contemporary conditions to only 1% of lakes in both future periods. Importantly, we identify up to 85 resilient lakes predicted to continue to support natural walleye recruitment. Management resources could target preserving these resilient walleye populations.
Sunlight or Window Dressing? Local Government Compliance with South Africa's Promotion of Access to Information Act
Authors: Berliner Daniel
Published: September 2016

Institutional reforms often face challenges of poor compliance and implementation at the local level. I analyze these in a context where weak state capacity and limited enforcement make widespread compliance unlikely. South Africa's 2000 Promotion of Access to Information Act tasked the South African Human Rights Commission with monitoring and promoting compliance, but with limited resources and no authority to sanction. I argue that local political competition can generate endogenous incentives for compliance, even under conditions of weak capacity and limited external enforcement. Using data on 234 South African municipalities over 10 years, I find higher levels of compliance among more politically competitive municipalities. The results are not simply a function of differences between African National Congress–governed municipalities and others, and are robust to numerous controls for different forms of local state capacity.
Mathematical Concept of Dialysis Unphysiology
Authors: Lopot František , Válek Albert
Published: September 2016

Although the unphysiology of the intermittently applied dialysis treatment was a concern of the dialysis pioneers, the development of any mathematical theory of treatment unphysiology and its quantification was not attempted until the end of the 1980s. This paper suggests that the conventional urea kinetic modeling (UKM) be complemented with a new parameter, the time‐averaged deviation (TAD). TAD is the mean plasma urea concentration fluctuation around its mean value (time‐averaged concentration, TAC). The value of TAD increases with a decreasing number of dialysis treatments per week, that is, with increasing dialysis unphysiology. Thus it can be used to quantify this until now only intuitively assessed treatment parameter. Status of a patient on any given treatment schedule can be characterized by a point on the TAC/TAD plot. Sensitivity analysis performed using the TAC/TAD plot offers insight into the influence of different patient‐ and treatment‐related parameters on the point location and thus enables both retrospective as well as prospective assessment of different treatment schedules. Clinical correlates of TAD will have to be found and studied to establish the importance of the treatment schedule unphysiology for the overall treatment outcome.
Successful Long‐Term Central Venous Access
Authors: Tesio Franco , Baz Hamurabi De , Panarello Giacomo
Published: September 2016

Daily home hemodialysis (DHHD) requires simple, vascular access to minimize patients' discomfort but also to guarantee tolerance and long‐term efficiency. The arteriovenous fistula is not ideal for DHHD because of the double puncture required every day; in addition, the rate of dysfunction is probably greater because of the more frequent use. Central venous catheters may be a good alternative to the arteriovenous fistula as long‐term vascular access for DHHD. In this study we report our experience with the internal jugular vein two‐catheter access for long‐term dialysis and evaluate its possible use for DHHD.

Since 1988, Tesio's twin catheters have been positioned in 908 patients with exhausted peripheral vascular bed. In all patients hemodialysis could be performed a few minutes after the surgical procedure.

The survival rate of catheters, in a selected group of 46 patients, at 1, 2, and 5 years was, respectively, 92%, 87%, and 82%. The mean blood flow was 282±29 mL/min at 1 month, 286±36 mL/min at 1 year, and 274±37 mL/min at 5 years. Venous pressure in the inlet side was 102±31 mm Hg at 1 month, 126±36 mm Hg at 1 year, and 132±58 mm Hg at 5 years. Catheter clotting was treated either with thrombolytic agents or with catheter (one or both) replacement. Sepsis was treated with systemic antibiotic therapy or catheter removal.

Data support the potential role of the internal jugular vein two‐catheter system for DHHD.
A Brief History of Daily Hemodialysis
Authors: Kjellstrand Carl M.
Published: September 2016

Daily hemodialysis has been in uninterrupted practice since its introduction in California in 1967. Early trials were stopped for technical, logistical, and economical problems, but a rapidly increasing number of centers now perform it on close to 200 patients, either as long nightly or short daytime hemodialysis.

Increasing the frequency of dialysis appears much more important in improving patient well‐being than increasing the Kt/V dose, and patients quickly experience much more vigor, energy, and improved quality of life when starting daily hemodialysis. Blood pressure improves, and medications can often be discontinued. Similarly, the need for erythropoietin decreases, and nutrition and dry body mass increase.

While the cost of dialysis increases, the total cost for a patient decreases as medications and hospitalizations decrease. Technical innovation will solve the logistical problems by letting a machine do the labor necessary to begin and end a dialysis session. Access problems have decreased for native fistula, and the other access types have not been studied enough.