bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Direct versus search engine traffic
Authors: Kaesbauer Manuel , Hohenstatt Ralf , Reed Richard
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The application of “Google” econometrics (Geco) has evolved rapidly in recent years and can be applied in various fields of research. Based on accepted theories in existing economic literature, this paper seeks to contribute to the innovative use of research on Google search query data to provide a new innovative to property research.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, existing data from Google Insights for Search (GI4S) is extended into a new potential source of consumer sentiment data based on visits to a commonly‐used UK online real‐estate agent platform (Rightmove.co.uk). In order to contribute to knowledge about the use of Geco's black box, namely the unknown sampling population and the specific search queries influencing the variables, the GI4S series are compared to direct web navigation.

Findings

The main finding from this study is that GI4S data produce immediate real‐time results with a high level of reliability in explaining the future volume of transactions and house prices in comparison to the direct website data. Furthermore, the results reveal that the number of visits to Rightmove.co.uk is driven by GI4S data and vice versa, and indeed without a contemporaneous relationship.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the new emerging and innovative field of research involving search engine data. It also contributes to the knowledge base about the increasing use of online consumer data in economic research in property markets.
Co‐movement of house price cycles – a factor analysis
Authors: Pomogajko Kirill , Voigtländer Michael
Published: September 2012

Purpose

Because of globalisation and monetary integration the macroeconomic conditions for industrial countries have become more and more equal. This paper aims to discover whether the synchronisation of business cycles also affected the co‐movement of house prices in OECD countries for the period 1990 to 2010.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a factor analysis the degree of co‐movement of house price cycles is measured. Additionally, by splitting the sample whether housing markets have become more integrated since the 1990s can be assessed.

Findings

The results show that the integration of housing markets has accelerated in the last decade. Both a strong global factor and a regional factor can be identified. However, some countries, such as Germany, The Netherlands and Japan, seem to have become uncoupled from the global trend. Furthermore, the co‐movement of markets generally increases with greater proximity. Although globalisation seems to foster the integration of housing markets, monetary integration has only a minor effect. For investors, hence, there is still scope for risk reduction in international housing markets.

Originality/value

This is the first paper to adress the co‐movement of house price cycles for a large set of countries. Furthermore, it proposes a new way to illustrate the results by referring to methods well‐known from cluster analysis.
Branding slums: a community‐driven strategy for urban inclusion in Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Torres I.
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the case of the Museum of Favela (MUF), which is a NGO set in Rio de Janeiro to develop renewed images of slums, based on their history of resistance and cultural production. The purpose is to uncover the nuances of this peculiar case, in which a group of slums' residents plays the role of place brand managers.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a combination of participant observation, document analysis and a series of in‐depth interviews with participants and partners alike, the paper identifies main motivations, networks and actions driving the strategy.

Findings

The major aim of the approached place branding is to tackle deeply‐rooted prejudices against slums and their residents. By expanding residents' networks and skills, MUF supports tourism‐related activities that allow the construction and promotion of new meaning for slums. Despite remarkable gains, scaling up community engagement is still a big challenge for the consolidation of the aspired images.

Practical implications

While current approaches to informal settlements deal mainly with housing and infrastructure access, the perception of residents is clearly neglected. Focusing on the image re‐construction, the paper offers relevant insights for slum upgrading policy frameworks.

Originality/value

This paper focuses on the incorporation of a place branding strategy as an attempt of urban inclusion developed on the ground and on the use of slums' cultural heritage – so far overlooked in policy frameworks – to generate re‐imaged slums.
“We love the Gong”: a marketing perspective
Authors: Kerr Greg , Dombkins Kate , Jelley Sarah
Published: September 2012

Purpose

A number of places have used the “I love” or “we love” tagline or slogan to promote their place, with the “I love New York” (using the heart symbol) possibly being the most familiar. Other places have used similar campaigns which can often be observed by the sale of merchandise from souvenir shops. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the “We love the Gong” campaign relative to the city of Wollongong, Australia.

Design/methodology/approach

After providing a background to the city of Wollongong and a brief explanation as to the meaning and use of slogans, an investigation of the campaign was undertaken by interviewing the person responsible for the campaign. Where appropriate, the explanations provided are supported by reference to local media reports and relevant literature.

Findings

It was found that the Wollongong campaign was more than a merchandising exercise. The campaign was a reaction to place identity and place image problems and was underpinned by research and a consequent marketing plan. The campaign was adequately resourced, professionally implemented, and research to monitor its effectiveness was undertaken.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the application of management and marketing principles to places by providing details of the campaign and lessons learnt from a review of its implementation.
A systemic risk management model for SMEs under financial crisis
Authors: Mihai Yiannaki Simona
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The “business‐risk” relationship across countries does not fit exactly into a “model” nor does it have a pure palliative effect. Following this idea, the purpose of this research is to reinforce a comparative study on small to medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) handling both risk and crisis management according to a new tailored model of a balance scorecard (BS). This new model of risk and crisis management aims at improving both SMEs' management adaptation and performance across all of crisis' stages, something not attempted so far in the literature.

Design/methodology/approach

The application of such a BS comes from the author's experience as a banker financing various SMEs industries, as a bank consultant on risk management, yet primarily from the results of a survey performed on a set of Romanian and Cypriot SMEs, equal‐proportionally selected from the area of trading, manufacturing, and services. The data regard the period 12/2008‐06/2011 as representative for the latest global financial crisis affecting the entire European Union region, too.

Findings

Coincidently or not, this study's results show a significant improvement of the financial performance of the SMEs who employed this model compared to those who did not.

Originality/value

This model's simplicity appeals to managers and regulators in understanding important business risks and crisis related phenomena. Backed by this idea, this research underpins a comparative study on SMEs handling risk and crisis management according to a new tailored model of a BS.
Importing international corporate governance codes in Greek publicly listed enterprises
Authors: Koutoupis Andreas G.
Published: September 2012

Purpose

This study focuses on the evaluation of the introduction of international corporate governance codes such as Combined Code (UK) and King Report III (SA) in the Greek publicly listed enterprises. This research is based on a case study analysis of six publicly listed enterprises (three of them are traded in the high capitalization index and another three in the medium‐low capitalization index of the Athens Stock Exchange). The main purpose of this paper is to examine the extent of international corporate governance codes impact in the relevant local laws and regulations, as well as the adopted best practices.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative research is carried out to address the research topic, using primary and secondary data. The primary source of this study is the professional experience of the author in the field of corporate governance within publicly listed enterprises, whereas secondary sources are the international corporate governance codes, Greek corporate governance laws, regulations and best practices, books, working papers and published articles.

Findings

Although certain parts of international governance codes requirements have been applied by a number of Greek publicly listed enterprises, there is a long way to go to achieve best practice. The reason for this is the typical, however not substantial application of international governance codes requirements.

Originality/value

Research is proved to be very useful as it describes a gap analysis in the application of international governance codes in the areas of corporate governance, internal and external auditing, as well as the regulators therefore making it easier to identify potential areas for improvement.
Leeds College of Building: higher apprenticeships in construction and the built environment
Authors: Whitehead Derek
Published: September 2012

Purpose

Leeds College of Building has a long‐standing affinity with apprenticeships, offering a broad range of apprenticeships at Level 2 and Level 3. The purpose of this paper is to provide details of the development and potential impact of a Level 5 Higher Apprenticeship in Construction Management.

Design/methodology/approach

Information presented in the paper is drawn from the organisation's own work in developing a higher apprenticeship (HA), building on its project plan as well as on‐going evaluation of the programme as it develops.

Findings

The College already supports a significant number of apprentices at Level 2 and level 3, therefore the development of a Level 5 Higher Apprenticeship in Construction and the Built Environment was a natural progression for the organisation. The key elements of the programme are detailed in the case study. With delivery planned to start in September 2012, plans have already been developed to extend the programme nationally.

Originality/value

The paper is based on the author's own experience and employer consultation. It presents a case study of an apprenticeship programme specific to the author's organisation.
Babington Business College
Authors: Carson Carole
Published: September 2012

Purpose

Following a number of recent developments in terms of skills in the Employer Related Services (ERS) sector the purpose of this paper is to contextualise the introduction of a higher apprenticeship (HA) for the ERS sector. The paper will showcase how the new HA is helping to formalise a skills framework and professionalize the sector.

Design/methodology/approach

Information presented in the paper is drawn from the organisation's own work in developing an HA. It builds on information incorporated in the original bid and project plan, as well as ongoing evaluation of how the programme is progressing.

Findings

The skills landscape of the ERS sector is evolving and there is a strong desire amongst employers to professionalize the sector. An HA has recently been developed as part of the qualification framework for the sector. Rolling out the HA, a consortium of specialist providers is hoping to provide much needed skills and knowledge for future and existing employees. In examining these developments and current progress, the impact of the programme on professionalizing the sector is noted.

Originality/value

The paper is based on the author's own experience and presents a case study of an apprenticeship programme specific to the author's organisation.
Apprenticeship of new teachers during their induction year
Authors: Shanks Rachel , Robson Dean
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore how the induction of new teachers might be regarded as a form of apprenticeship in which informal support (on‐the‐job learning) plays an important role alongside formal continuing professional learning (off‐the‐job learning). The sample teachers are part of the Teacher Induction Scheme in Scotland, which provides a reduced teaching workload during the induction year, so that new teachers have time to develop their practice through continuing professional learning and development activities.

Design/methodology/approach

A sequential mixed methods study was undertaken, with two online questionnaires sent to 167 new teachers and two sets of semi‐structured interviews with ten new teachers.

Findings

The findings highlight the importance of a reduction in teaching hours and the significance of informal learning for new teachers. Furthermore, while an induction scheme framework with reduced workload is important, new teachers need supportive colleagues to learn from and with during their first year of teaching.

Research limitations/implications

This study only involved new teachers who had completed their initial teacher education at one Scottish university. Policy makers and school leaders could do more to recognise, value and encourage informal work‐based learning and collegiate support for new teachers.

Originality/value

The paper provides a deeper understanding of the nature of informal learning, often characteristic of the apprenticeship model, in the context of a formal induction scheme. It highlights that more than a formal induction scheme on its own is needed to support teachers in their transition from student teacher to qualified teacher. The paper draws attention to the need for policy makers, local authorities and schools to be more supportive and responsive to the learning and development needs of new teachers when implementing an induction scheme for new entrants.
Agrarian reforms and the African Green Revolution
Authors: Dare Kolawole Oluwatoyin
Published: September 2012

Purpose

– Agricultural intensification is central to the Green Revolution (GR) programme. This initiative, which dates back to the early 1940s, revolves around the development of high-yielding and disease-resistant seed varieties that aims at bringing about efficient and secure food production. The purpose of this paper is to present a brief genesis and thrust of the GR. Focusing on Nigeria as a typical African case, the discourse addresses the political economy of the Nigerian agriculture, outlines the features of the Nigerian GR and highlights some crucial issues debated during the 2008 Salzburg Global Seminar (SGS) conference for a uniquely African GR as a pro-poor development strategy.

Design/methodology/approach

– Using a critical discourse analysis and case study design, the paper analyses the political and bureaucratic lapses associated with the introduction and implementation of the reform.

Findings

– Although wary of some of the socio-political and environmental issues surrounding the production of genetically-modified organisms (GMOs) and high external inputs (HEIs) in the push for a new African GR, the paper reports the proceedings of the Salzburg conference as a likely platform for the formulation of new pro-poor policies in the context of the African GR. If sincerely and properly implemented, the paper argues that an African-oriented GR framework is conceived as a possible policy window to address the challenges of the continent
'
s poor majority.

Social implications

– The policy issues raised in the paper would serve as a pool of information from which policy conceptualisation, formulation and implementation could be derived for the good of the African agrarian economies and poor majority.

Originality/value

– Highlighted issues on the debates on a “uniquely” African GR during the SGS conference provide original insights to the implementation of agrarian reforms in Africa. The paper is valuable to policy makers and other stakeholders in re-shaping the agricultural sector in the continent.
Overnight heart rate variability in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea: A time and frequency domain study
Authors: Zhu Kaixian , Chemla Denis , Roisman Gabriel , Mao Wenyuan , Bazizi Samir , Lefevre Amaury , Escourrou Pierre
Published: September 2012

Heightened sympathetic activity plays a role in the cardiovascular sequelae of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). Cardiac autonomic function may be assessed non‐invasively by studying heart rate variability (HRV). The aim of the present study was to compare overnight HRV between a control group and a group of subjects with severe OSA. The potential confounding effects of age, sex, baseline autonomic status and sleep stage distribution were taken into account.

Our prospective Holter study compared overnight (0030–0530 hours) HRV in 23 controls (apnoea hypopnoea index (AHI) = 5 ± 3 /h) and 23 subjects with severe OSA (AHI = 65 ± 23 /h), matched for age and sex and with a similar percentage of rapid eye movement sleep.

The mean normal‐to‐normal RR interval (NN) was shorter in the OSA compared with control group (903 vs 1039 ms, respectively), whereas the other time‐domain indices of HRV, as well as the classic frequency‐domain indices, were similar. Essentially similar results were obtained hourly and when only subjects with high mean values of the standard deviation of all NN (≥ 90 ms) were evaluated. In the 0.01–0.06 Hz range corresponding to the typical OSA pattern of bradycardia–tachycardia termed cyclic variation of heart rate (CVHR), higher power was documented hourly in OSA, with a significant correlation between overnight power and both AHI and mean oxyhaemoglobin saturation. The percentage of NN > x ms different from the previous one (pNNx family) had no diagnostic value.

The results of the present study suggest that NN may be the best index to quantify the overnight sympathovagal balance in OSA and that a spectral band overlapping the apnoea‐related pattern of CVHR slightly improved the characterization of the apnoea‐related HRV patterns.
Cryptic diversity in flathead fishes (Scorpaeniformes: Platycephalidae) across the Indo‐West Pacific uncovered by DNA barcoding
Authors: Puckridge Melody , Andreakis Nikos , Appleyard Sharon A. , Ward Robert D.
Published: September 2012

Identification of taxonomical units underpins most biological endeavours ranging from accurate biodiversity estimates to the effective management of sustainably harvested, protected or endangered species. Successful species identification is now frequently based on a combination of approaches including morphometrics and DNA markers. Sequencing of the mitochondrial COI gene is an established methodology with an international campaign directed at barcoding all fishes. We employed COI sequencing alongside traditional taxonomic identification methods and uncovered instances of deep intraspecific genetic divergences among flathead species. Sixty‐five operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were observed across the Indo‐West Pacific from just 48 currently recognized species. The most comprehensively sampled taxon, Platycephalus indicus, exhibited the highest levels of genetic diversity with eight lineages separated by up to 16.37% genetic distance. Our results clearly indicate a thorough reappraisal of the current taxonomy of P. indicus (and its three junior synonyms) is warranted in conjunction with detailed taxonomic work on the other additional Platycephalidae OTUs detected by DNA barcoding.
Land snail diversity in post extraction secondary forest reserves in Edo State, Nigeria
Authors: Chris Oke
Published: September 2012

Knowledge of the fauna of tropical lowland rainforest is urgently necessary because of the high rate of biodiversity loss and global extinction of species as a result of deforestation. We studied land molluscs species richness and diversity in four heavily degraded secondary forest reserves and one old‐growth forest reserve in Edo State, Nigeria using a combination of direct fixed‐time search and litter‐sieving techniques in twelve plots of 400 m2 each per reserve. A total of 43 species and 2570 individuals were collected from all the reserves. Local species richness ranged from 19 to 39 species while number of specimens from 203 to 971. Molluscan species richness and diversity is significantly higher in the old‐growth forest than in the disturbed forest reserves. Land molluscs family composition was similar in all the forests with respect to the common and wide‐ranging species while rare and narrow‐range species are restricted to the old‐growth forest in Okomu. The carnivorous streptaxids and detritivorous subulinids dominate species richness and abundance respectively in all the sites. Species turnover is moderately high within and between the forest reserves indicating the uniqueness of the faunal composition of each forest and the need for adequate protection.
Ursodeoxycholic acid suppresses eosinophilic airway inflammation by inhibiting the function of dendritic cells through the nuclear farnesoid X receptor
Authors: Willart M. A. M. , van Nimwegen M. , Grefhorst A. , Hammad H. , Moons L. , Hoogsteden H. C. , Lambrecht B. N. , KleinJan A.
Published: September 2012

Background

Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is the only known beneficial bile acid with immunomodulatory properties. Ursodeoxycholic acid prevents eosinophilic degranulation and reduces eosinophil counts in primary biliary cirrhosis. It is unknown whether UDCA would also modulate eosinophilic inflammation outside the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, such as eosinophilic airway inflammation seen in asthma. The working mechanism for its immunomodulatory effect is unknown.

Methods

The immunosuppressive features of UDCA were studied in vivo, in mice, in an ovalbumin (OVA)‐driven eosinophilic airway inflammation model. To study the mechanism of action of UDCA, we analyzed the effect of UDCA on eosinophils, T cells, and dendritic cell (DCs). DC function was studied in greater detail, focussing on migration and T‐cell stimulatory strength in vivo and interaction with T cells in vitro as measured by time‐lapse image analysis. Finally, we studied the capacity of UDCA to influence DC/T cell interaction.

Results

Ursodeoxycholic acid treatment of OVA‐sensitized mice prior to OVA aerosol challenge significantly reduced eosinophilic airway inflammation compared with control animals. DCs expressed the farnesoid X receptor for UDCA. Ursodeoxycholic acid strongly promoted interleukin (IL)‐12 production and enhanced the migration in DCs. The time of interaction between DCs and T cells was sharply reduced in vitro by UDCA treatment of the DCs resulting in a remarkable T‐cell cytokine production. Ursodeoxycholic acid‐treated DCs have less capacity than saline‐treated DCs to induce eosinophilic inflammation in vivo in Balb/c mice.

Conclusion

Ursodeoxycholic acid has the potency to suppress eosinophilic inflammation outside the GI tract. This potential comprises to alter critical function of DCs, in essence, the effect of UDCA on DCs through the modulation of the DC/T cell interaction.
Obesity lowers the threshold of allergic sensitization and augments airway eosinophilia in a mouse model of asthma
Authors: Dietze J. , Böcking C. , Heverhagen J. T. , Voelker M. N. , Renz H.
Published: September 2012

Background

Clinical and epidemiological studies show a close association between obesity and the risk of asthma development. The underlying cause–effect relationship between metabolism, innate and adaptive immunity, and inflammation remains to be elucidated.

Methods

We developed an animal model to study the interaction between metabolic abnormalities and experimentally induced asthma. Obesity‐susceptible AKR mice were fed with high‐fat diet (HFD) or normal low‐fat diet (LFD) and subjected to a protocol of ovalbumin (OVA) sensitization and airway allergen challenges followed by assessment of inflammation and lung function.

Results

AKR mice developed obesity and a prestage of metabolic syndrome following HFD. This phenotype was associated with an increase in proinflammatory macrophages (CD11b+/CD11c+) together with higher serum levels of interleukin 6. Obese mice showed increased susceptibility to allergic sensitization as compared to LFD animals. Anti‐ovalbumin IgE antibody titers correlated positively and anti‐OVA IgG2a antibodies titers correlated negatively with body weight. Airway eosinophilia showed a positive correlation with body weight, whereas mucus production did not change with obesity.

Conclusions

This obesity model demonstrates that HFD‐induced obesity lowers the sensitization threshold in a model of asthma. This finding helps to understand why, particularly during childhood, obesity is a risk factor for the development of allergic asthma.
Health consequences of prophylactic exposure to antenatal corticosteroids among children born late preterm or term
Authors: ERIKSSON LENA , HAGLUND BENGT , EWALD UWE , ODLIND VIVECA , KIELER HELLE
Published: September 2012

Objective. To investigate the duration of effects and health consequences of earlier antenatal corticosteroid exposure in infants born late preterm or term. Design. Observational cohort study. Setting. Children born after gestational week 34 in Sweden, 1976–1997, whose mothers were hospitalized for imminent preterm delivery. The children were followed to their 11th birthday. Sample. The cohort consisted of 11 873 infants, of whom 8620 were exposed. Methods. Exposure was estimated at hospital level. Infants born at a hospital practicing antenatal corticosteroid administration were classified as exposed. Estimation of hospital routines was based on questionnaire data, telephone interviews with physicians and pharmacy sales, validated in a random sample of medical records. Logistic regression was used to assess associations with adjustments for pregnancy length, birth year and hospital level. Main outcome measures. Rates and odds ratios of mortality, respiratory distress syndrome, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, epilepsy, cerebral palsy, childhood diabetes, birthweight, length and head circumference for all infants, and for preterm and term infants, respectively. Results. Exposed infants had reduced risks of respiratory distress syndrome (odds ratio 0.54, 95% confidence interval 0.35–0.83) and small head circumference (odds ratio 0.47, 95% confidence interval 0.36–0.61), and an increased risk of low Apgar scores (odds ratio 1.40, 95% confidence interval 1.01–1.94), most pronounced in infants born after gestational week 37. Conclusions. Infants born after gestational week 34 seem to benefit from earlier antenatal corticosteroid administration, with reduced risks of respiratory distress syndrome. However, the treatment was less beneficial for term infants, because they also had increased risk of low Apgar scores.
Rapid identification of Staphylococcus aureus directly from positive blood culture media using quantum dots as fluorescence probes
Authors: Wu Qing , Li Yan , Wang Ming , Wu Ze G. , Huang Bi H.
Published: September 2012

The subcultivation of positive blood cultures for organism identification is a time‐consuming process. We explored the use of fluorescent quantum dots (QDs) as probes for the improved detection and identification of Staphylococcus aureus directly from positive blood culture media. Immunofluorescence probes were synthesized by linking biotin‐conjugated QDs to streptavidin‐conjugated IgG molecules. This QDs‐IgG complex is capable of binding anti‐SPA antibodies which specifically bind to a cell surface protein of S. aureus. The specificity of the method was confirmed using reference strains. Among 372 positive blood cultures, 73 containing gram‐positive cocci in clusters were investigated. Relative to the standard culture method, the immunofluorescence assay showed 90.5% (19/21) sensitivity and 100% (52/52) specificity for S. aureus. These results suggest that this immunofluorescence assay allows the rapid identification of S. aureus directly from specimens.
Meta‐analysis: effect of preoperative infliximab use on early postoperative complications in patients with ulcerative colitis undergoing abdominal surgery
Authors: Yang Z. , Wu Q. , Wang F. , Wu K. , Fan D.
Published: September 2012

Background

Infliximab is widely used in severe and refractory ulcerative colitis (UC). The results of clinical studies are inconsistent on whether preoperative infliximab use increases early postoperative complications in UC patients.

Aim

To determine the clinical safety and efficacy of preoperative infliximab treatment in UC patients with regard to short‐term outcomes following abdominal surgery.

Methods

PubMed, Embase databases were searched for controlled observational studies comparing postsurgical morbidity in UC patients receiving infliximab preoperatively with those not on infliximab. The primary endpoint was total complication rate. Secondary endpoints included the rate of infectious and non‐infectious complications. We calculated pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) as summary measures.

Results

A total of 13 studies involving 2933 patients were included in our meta‐analysis. There was no significant association between infliximab therapy preoperatively and total (OR = 1.09, 95% CI: 0.87–1.37, P = 0.47), infectious (OR = 1.10, 95% CI: 0.51–2.38, P = 0.81) and non‐infectious (OR = 1.10, 95% CI: 0.76–1.59, P = 0.61) postoperative complications respectively. Infliximab might be a protective factor against infection for the use within 12 weeks prior to surgery (OR = 0.43, 95% CI: 0.22–0.83, P = 0.01). No publication bias was found.

Conclusion

Preoperative infliximab use does not increase the risk of early postoperative complications in patients with ulcerative colitis undergoing abdominal surgery.
Mobile evaporite controls on the structural style and evolution of rift basins: Danish Central Graben, North Sea
Authors: Duffy Oliver B. , Gawthorpe Rob L. , Docherty Matthew , Brocklehurst Simon H.
Published: September 2012

The Southern Tail‐End Graben, Danish Central Graben, is characterized by a lateral variation in the thickness and mobility of pre‐rift Zechstein Supergroup evaporites, allowing investigation of how supra‐basement evaporite variability influences rift structural style and tectono‐stratigraphy. The study area is divided into two structural domains based on interpretations of the depositional thickness and mobility of the Zechstein Supergroup. Within each domain, we examine the overall basin morphology and the structural styles in the pre‐Zechstein and supra‐Zechstein (cover) units. Furthermore, integration of two‐way travel‐time (TWT)‐structure and ‐thickness maps allows fault activity and evaporite migration maps to be generated for pre‐ and syn‐rift stratal units within the two domains, permitting constraints to be placed on: (i) the timing of activity on pre‐Zechstein and cover faults and (ii) the onset, duration and migration direction of mobile evaporites. The northern domain is interpreted to be free from evaporite‐influence, and has developed in a manner typical of brittle‐only, basement‐involved rifts. Syn‐rift basins display classical half‐graben geometries bounded by thick‐skinned faults. In contrast, the southern domain is interpreted to be evaporite‐influenced, and cover structure reflects a southward increase in the thickness and mobility of the Zechstein Supergroup evaporites. Fault‐related and evaporite‐related folding is prominent in the southern domain, together with variable degrees of decoupling of sub‐Zechstein and cover fault and fold systems. The addition of mobile evaporites to the rift results in: (i) complex and spatially variable modes of tectono‐stratigraphic evolution; (ii) syn‐rift stratal geometries which are condensed above evaporite swells and over‐thickened in areas of withdrawal; (iii) compartmentalized syn‐rift depocentres; and (iv) masking of rift‐related megasequence boundaries. Through demonstrating these deviations from the characteristics of rifts free from evaporite influence, we highlight the first order control evaporites may exert upon rift structural style and the distribution and thicknesses of syn‐rift units.
Detection of N‐glycolyated gangliosides in non‐small‐cell lung cancer using GMR8 monoclonal antibody
Authors: Hayashi Nobuyoshi , Chiba Hirofumi , Kuronuma Koji , Go Shinji , Hasegawa Yoshihiro , Takahashi Motoko , Gasa Shinsei , Watanabe Atsushi , Hasegawa Tadashi , Kuroki Yoshio , Inokuchi Jinichi , Takahashi Hiroki
Published: September 2012

Gangliosides are glycosphingolipids found on the cell surface. They act as recognition molecules or signal modulators and regulate cell proliferation and differentiation. N‐glycolylneuraminic acid (NeuGc)‐containing gangliosides have been detected in some neoplasms in humans, although they are usually absent in normal human tissues. Our aim was to evaluate the presence of NeuGc‐containing gangliosides including GM3 (NeuGc) and assess their relationship with the prognosis of non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC). NeuGc‐containing ganglioside expression in NSCLC tissues was analyzed immunohistochemically using the mouse monoclonal antibody GMR8, which is specific for gangliosides with NeuGc alpha 2,3Gal‐terminal structures. On the basis of NeuGc‐containing ganglioside expression, we performed survival analysis. We also investigated the differences in the effects of GM3 (N‐acetylneuraminic acid [NeuAc]) and GM3 (NeuGc) on inhibition of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase in A431 cells. As a result, the presence of NeuGc‐containing gangliosides was evident in 86 of 93 (93.5%) NSCLC samples. The NSCLC patients with high NeuGc‐containing ganglioside expression had a low overall survival rate and a significantly low progression‐free survival rate. In the in vitro study, the inhibitory effect of GM3 on EGFR tyrosine kinase in A431 cells after exposure to GM3 (NeuGc) was lower than that after exposure to GM3 (NeuAc). In conclusion, NeuGc‐containing gangliosides including GM3 (NeuGc) are widely expressed in NSCLC, and NeuGc‐containing ganglioside expression is associated with patient survival. The difference in the effects of GM3 (NeuGc) and GM3 (NeuAc) on the inhibition of EGFR tyrosine kinase might contribute to improvement in the prognosis of NSCLC patients. (Cancer Sci 2013; 104: 43–47)
Long‐term results of concurrent chemoradiotherapy using cisplatin and vinorelbine for stage III non‐small‐cell lung cancer
Authors: Horinouchi Hidehito , Sekine Ikuo , Sumi Minako , Noda Kazumasa , Goto Koichi , Mori Kiyoshi , Tamura Tomohide
Published: September 2012

Concurrent chemoradiotherapy is the standard treatment for unresectable stage III non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The long‐term feasibility and efficacy of vinorelbine and cisplatin with concurrent thoracic radiotherapy were investigated. Eighteen patients received cisplatin (80 mg/m2) on day 1 and vinorelbine (20 mg/m2 in level 1, and 25 mg/m2 in level 2) on days 1 and 8 every 4 weeks for four cycles in a phase I trial. Ninety‐three patients received the same chemotherapy regimen except for the fixed vinorelbine (20 mg/m2) dosage and consolidation therapy with docetaxel (60 mg/m2, every 3 weeks). The thoracic radiotherapy consisted of a single dose of 2 Gy once daily to a total dose of 60 Gy. A total of 111 patients were analyzed in the present study: male/female, 91/20; median age, 60 years; stage IIIA/IIIB, 50/61; and squamous/non‐squamous histology, 26/85. The 3‐, 5‐, and 7‐year overall survival rates (95% CI) were 43.2% (33.9–52.2), 25.2% (17.6–33.5), and 23.2% (15.8–31.4), respectively. The median progression‐free survival and median survival time (95% CI) were 13.5 (10.1–16.7) months and 30.0 (24.3–38.8) months, respectively. Four patients (4%) experienced Grade 5 pulmonary toxicities from 4.4 to 9.4 months after the start of treatment. In conclusion, approximately 15% of patients with unresectable stage III NSCLC could be cured with chemoradiotherapy without severe late toxicities after 10 months of follow‐up. Although based on the data from highly selected population participated in phase I and phase II trial, this analysis would strengthen and confirm the previous reports concerning concurrent chemoradiotherapy with third generation cytotoxic agents. (Cancer Sci 2013; 104: 93–97)
Chemotherapy Drugs Form Ion Pores in Membranes Due to Physical Interactions with Lipids
Authors: Ashrafuzzaman Mohammad , Tseng Chih‐Yuan , Duszyk Marek , Tuszynski Jack A.
Published: September 2012

We demonstrate the effects on membrane of the tubulin‐binding chemotherapy drugs: thiocolchicoside and taxol. Electrophysiology recordings across lipid membranes in aqueous phases containing drugs were used to investigate the drug effects on membrane conductance. Molecular dynamics simulation of the chemotherapy drug–lipid complexes was used to elucidate the mechanism at an atomistic level. Both drugs are observed to induce stable ion‐flowing pores across membranes. Discrete pore current–time plots exhibit triangular conductance events in contrast to rectangular ones found for ion channels. Molecular dynamics simulations indicate that drugs and lipids experience electrostatic and van der Waals interactions for short periods of time when found within each other’s proximity. The energies from these two interactions are found to be similar to the energies derived theoretically using the screened Coulomb and the van der Waals interactions between peptides and lipids due to mainly their charge properties while forming peptide‐induced ion channels in lipid bilayers. Experimental and in silico studies together suggest that the chemotherapy drugs induce ion pores inside lipid membranes due to drug–lipid physical interactions. The findings reveal cytotoxic effects of drugs on the cell membrane, which may aid in novel drug development for treatment of cancer and other diseases.
Activity assessment has little impact on caries parameters reduction in epidemiological surveys with preschool children
Authors: Piovesan Chaiana , Ardenghi Thiago M. , Guedes Renata S. , Ekstrand Kim R. , Braga Mariana M. , Mendes Fausto M.
Published: September 2012

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the magnitude of the reduction in caries parameters after inclusion of dental caries activity assessment, in an epidemiological survey of preschool children, involving cavitated and noncavitated caries lesions.

Methods

The survey was carried out in Santa Maria, Brazil, during the National Children's Vaccination Day, and 639 children aged between 12 months and 59 months were included. Fifteen examiners assessed the children based on the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS) and additional lesion activity assessment criteria. The mean of decayed surfaces (d‐s), the mean of decayed teeth (d‐t), caries prevalence, and 95% confidence intervals were calculated, initially by classifying all lesions using the various thresholds defined by the ICDAS. Caries activity status was then evaluated, and inactive lesions were classified as sound in a secondary analysis; subsequently, the same caries parameters, at the same thresholds, were recalculated. The reduction in caries parameters and the number of children requiring assessment to change their classification from decayed to sound (number needed to be assessed) were also calculated.

Results

The majority of lesions were classified as active, mainly at cavitated thresholds. When activity was considered, values of all caries parameters decreased. This decrease was more evident at noncavitated thresholds. The number of children requiring assessment to change their classification from decayed to sound was <20 considering all lesions, but this value increased to approximately 100 when we included only cavitated lesions.

Conclusions

The inclusion of activity assessment in caries epidemiological surveys has little impact on the d‐s, d‐t and prevalence of dental caries considering both noncavitated and cavitated lesions.
Cytokine regulation of the epidermal barrier
Authors: Gutowska‐Owsiak D. , Ogg G. S.
Published: September 2012

Studies published in recent years have highlighted the role of epidermal barrier defects in both atopic skin disease and the development of broader allergic manifestations. While genetic determinants of barrier function are important, it is clear that local acquired effects are also involved in disease pathogenesis. In this review, we aimed to summarize the known influences of cytokines abundantly expressed during atopic skin disease on components of epidermal barrier integrity and function.
The association between BMI, vigorous physical activity and television viewing and the risk of symptoms of asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis and eczema in children and adolescents: ISAAC Phase Three
Authors: Mitchell E. A. , Beasley R. , Björkstén B. , Crane J. , García‐Marcos L. , Keil U. ,   the ISAAC Phase Three Study Group
Published: September 2012

Background

Several studies have observed an association between obesity and asthma, but whether or not there is an association with rhinoconjunctivitis or eczema is unclear.

Aims

To examine the relationship between body mass index categories (underweight, overweight and obesity), vigorous physical activity and television viewing and the risk of symptoms of asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis and eczema.

Methods

As part of International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) Phase Three, parents or guardians of children aged 6–7 years completed written questionnaires about symptoms of asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis and eczema, and several potential risk factors, such as vigorous physical activity and television viewing, and other information such as the child's height and weight. Adolescents aged 13–14 years self‐completed the questionnaires on these symptoms and potential risk factors and reported their own height and weight. For 28% of children and 24% of adolescents, the height and weight was objectively measured.

Results

A total of 76 164 children aged 6–7 years (from 29 centres and 17 countries) and 201 370 adolescents aged 13–14 years (from 73 centres and 35 countries) provided data meeting the inclusion criteria. There were associations between overweight and obesity, but not underweight, and symptoms of asthma and eczema but not rhinoconjunctivitis. Vigorous physical activity was positively associated with symptoms of asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis and eczema in adolescents, but not children. Viewing television for five or more hours/day was associated with an increased risk of symptoms of asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis and eczema in adolescents and symptoms of asthma in children.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

This study has confirmed the association between overweight and obesity and symptoms of asthma. It has extended these observations to include significant associations with symptoms of eczema, but not rhinoconjunctivitis. There are complex relationships between obesity, vigorous physical activity and sedentary behaviour and the symptoms of asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis and eczema in children.
Co‐inheritance of HNF1a and GCK mutations in a family with maturity‐onset diabetes of the young (MODY): implications for genetic testing
Authors: López‐Garrido M. P. , Herranz‐Antolín S. , Alija‐Merillas M. J. , Giralt P. , Escribano J.
Published: September 2012

Objective

To determine the genetic basis of dominant early‐onset diabetes mellitus in two families.

Patients and methods

Molecular analysis by PCR sequencing of the promoter, the 5′ untranslated region (UTR) and exons of both GCK and HNF1A genes was carried out in two families with clinically diagnosed dominant diabetes mellitus.

Results

The novel HNF1A c.‐154_‐160TGGGGGT mutation, located in the 5′ UTR, was present in several members of the two families in the heterozygous state. Interestingly, the GCK p.Y61X mutation was also identified in three members of one of the families, and two of them carried both mutations in heterozygosis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the co‐inheritance of GCK and HNF1A mutations and the coexistence of maturity‐onset diabetes of the young (MODY) 2, MODY 3 and unusual MODY 2–3 genotypes in the same family.

Conclusions

Carriers of both GCK and HNF1A mutations manifested a typical MODY 3 phenotype and showed that the presence of a second mutation in the GCK gene apparently did not modify the clinical outcome, at least at the time of this study. Our data show that co‐inheritance of MODY 2 and MODY 3 mutations should be considered, at least in some cases, for accurate genetic testing.
Effect of cholecystokinin on rectal motor and sensory function in patients with irritable bowel syndrome and healthy controls
Authors: van der Schaar P. J. , van Hoboken E. , Ludidi S , Masclee A. A. M.
Published: September 2012

Aim  Ingestion of a meal frequently induces an urge to defaecate, the so‐called gastro‐colonic or gastro‐rectal reflex. In patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), symptoms are often provoked by meals. Cholecystokinin (CCK), a proximal gut peptide released after ingestion of a meal, may mediate these postprandial changes. The potential role of CCK in rectal sensory and motor function was evaluated by a rectal barostat study in healthy controls and patients with IBS.

Method  The sensory effects on serosal and mucosal receptors were studied. Twelve healthy controls and 12 patients with IBS underwent a ramp distension procedure of the rectum during infusion of CCK and placebo in random order. In 10 other healthy controls and 10 IBS patients an intermittent distension procedure was performed during infusion of CCK and placebo in random order.

Results  No differences were found in rectal compliance during ramp distensions between IBS patients and controls. CCK did not affect perception of urge and pain in controls or in IBS patients. Similar results were obtained during the intermittent distensions, but at higher distension pressures CCK significantly increased rectal sensitivity in IBS patients.

Conclusion  Infusion of exogenous CCK to plasma levels normally seen in the postprandial state did not influence rectal motor function or sensations during ramp distension but it did significantly increase pain sensation in IBS patients during rapid intermittent distension.
Quality of recipient–caregiver relationship and psychological distress are correlates of self‐care agency after lung transplantation
Authors: DeVito Dabbs Annette , Terhorst Lauren , Song Mi‐Kyung , Shellmer Diana A. , Aubrecht Jill , Connolly Mary , Dew Mary Amanda
Published: September 2012

Self‐care behaviors are crucial for following the complex regimen after lung transplantation, yet little is known about recipients' levels of self‐care agency (the capability and willingness to engage in self‐care behaviors) and its correlates. We examined levels of self‐care agency and recipient characteristics (socio‐demographics, psychological distress, quality of relationship with primary lay caregiver, and health locus of control) in 111 recipients. Based on Perceived Self‐Care Agency scores, recipients were assigned to either the low‐ or high‐self‐care agency comparison group. Characteristics were compared between groups to identify characteristics likely to be associated with lower‐self‐care agency. Mean (SD) score for self‐care agency (scale range, 53–265) was 223.02 (22.46). Recipients with lowest‐self‐care agency scores reported significantly poorer quality of caregiver relationships (p < 0.001) and greater psychological distress (p < 0.001). After controlling for psychological distress, the quality of the recipient–caregiver relationship remained significantly associated with self‐care agency. Every one‐point decrease in the quality of caregiver relationship increased the risk of low‐self‐care agency by 12%. Recipients with poorer caregiver relationships and greater psychological distress may need additional support to perform the self‐care behaviors expected after lung transplantation.