bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First steps into the metaphoric wilderness of macroeconomics
Authors: Starr-Glass David
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this article is to analyze the decline of two central metaphors of macroeconomics, economics and markets, and suggests ways in which metaphoric vigor can be initiated to promote economic reflection, inter-disciplinary collaboration, and more productive engagement with the broader society. Economics and markets can be described as dead metaphors which have ceased to provide any metaphoric advantage or potential but which nevertheless remain central to economic discourse. At a time when economics is coming under societal scrutiny and being asked to explain its assumptions, predictive ability and social impact, the perceived distance and sterility of economic language presents a significant problem.

Design/methodology/approach

– The central approach is an analysis of the ways in which metaphor come into being, provide regenerative insights and communicate open and creative discourse. Metaphor theory is introduced, as are theoretical considerations on the decline of conceptual metaphor through over familiarization.

Findings

– Metaphor in economics is underexplored and this article suggests that a more engaged and creative approach will provide benefit within the discipline and will be necessary to sustain the ongoing discourse with those outside the field.

Originality/value

– This article provides new insight into the problems associated with the failure to recognize and to resuscitate metaphor in macroeconomics. It provides original perspectives on the problem, and presents novel suggestions for reducing the communication difficulties that metaphor failure has produced, particularly in communicating economic perspectives with the broader society.
Polyesteramide resin from PET waste and fatty amide
Authors: P. More Aarti , Abhimanyu Kute Ravindra , T. Mhaske Shashank
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is synthesis of polyesteramide resin from jatropha oil and monomer from recycling of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) to get the excellent benefit of individual structure. Along with the synthesis of polyesteramide resin, this research work will also help in recycling of PET waste and help for the conversion of monomer obtained from recycling of PET to value-added application.

Design/methodology/approach

– Polyesteramide resin was synthesized by conventional method, i.e. by converting jatropha oil to corresponding fatty amide, i.e. hydroxyl ethyl jatropha oil fatty acid amide (HEJA), and treating it with dicarboxylic acid, i.e. sebacic acid but bis(2-hydroxyethyl) terepthalamide (BHETA) is added, i.e. monomer of PET, and then resin synthesis is carried out. Synthesized resin is cured with isocyanate and used for coating application. Coating is characterized for physical, mechanical, thermal and anticorrosive properties.

Findings

– Coating shows excellent balance of flexibility and hardness due to structural difference in BHETA and HEJA. Aromatic structure of BHETA was helpful for increasing hardness and for retardation of degradation, and at the same time, aliphatic structure of HEJA was helpful for increasing flexibility of the coating. Amide linkage present in both help for better adhesion of coating to metal surface, which also helps to improve the mechanical properties and anticorrosive properties.

Practical implications

– This method is the practical solution for synthesis of polyesteramide resin and then coating from PET waste and jatropha oil. Hence the method developed is simple and it helps for recycling of PET waste and conversion of recycled product to value-added material.

Originality/value

– To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study which use jatropha oil (fatty amide of jatropha oil) and PET waste (monomer of PET waste) simultaneously for the synthesis of polyesteramide resin and then coating.
Effect of polyvinylpyrrolidone – polyethylene glycol blends on the corrosion inhibition of aluminium in HCl solution
Authors: Umoren S.A. , Eduok U.M. , Solomon M.M.
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of polyethylene glycol (PEG), polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and blended formulations on the corrosion inhibition of aluminium in HCl solutions at 30-60°C and to study the mechanism of action.

Design/methodology/approach

– The inhibitive effect of the homopolymers and polymer blend was assessed using weight loss and hydrogen evolution methods at 30 and 60°C. The morphology of the corroding aluminium surface without and with the additives was visualized using atomic force microscopy. The trend of inhibition efficiency with temperature was used to propose the mechanism of inhibition and type of adsorption.

Findings

– Results obtained show that inhibition efficiency (η%) increases with increase in concentration of the polymers but decreases with increase in temperature. The inhibition efficiency of the homopolymers and their blends decreased with rise in temperature. Inhibition efficiency was found to be synergistically enhanced on blending the two homopolymers with highest inhibition efficiency obtained for (PEG:PVP) blending ratio of 1:3. The phenomenon of physical adsorption is proposed from the trend of inhibition efficiency with temperature.

Research limitations/implications

– The mechanistic aspect of the corrosion inhibition can be better understood using electrochemical studies such as potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy.

Originality/value

– Studies involving the use of polymer blends/mixtures as corrosion inhibitor for metals in corrosive environments are scarce. The results suggest that the mixture could find practical application in corrosion control in aqueous acidic environment. The data obtained would form part of database on the use of polymer–polymer mixtures to control acid-induced corrosion of metal.
Elevated plasma homocysteine level is possibly associated with skin sclerosis in a series of Japanese patients with systemic sclerosis
Authors: Motegi Sei‐ichiro , Toki Sayaka , Yamada Kazuya , Uchiyama Akihiko , Ishikawa Osamu
Published: October 2014

Homocysteine is a sulfhydryl‐containing amino acid that is derived from dietary methionine, and there has been increasing evidence that elevated plasma homocysteine levels are associated with increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, including carotid, coronary and peripheral arterial disease (PAD). The association of plasma homocysteine levels with peripheral vascular involvements, such as Raynaud phenomenon (RP), digital ulcers (DU) in systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients has not been well studied. The objective of this study was to examine plasma homocysteine levels and their clinical associations in patients with SSc. Plasma homocysteine levels in 151 Japanese patients with SSc and 20 healthy controls were examined. No significant differences were observed in plasma homocysteine levels between SSc patients and healthy individuals. Demographic and clinical features of the SSc patients revealed that severe skin sclerosis, anti‐topoisomerase I antibody positivity, complications of DU, acro‐osteolysis (AO) and interstitial lung disease (ILD) were significantly more prevalent among the patients with elevated plasma homocysteine levels. The plasma homocysteine levels were positively correlated with modified Rodnan total skin score. The plasma homocysteine levels in the SSc patients with DU, AO and ILD were significantly higher than those in the SSc without DU, AO and ILD, respectively. Plasma homocysteine levels did not correlate with either the mean or max intima‐media thickness (IMT) or plaque score, suggesting that plasma homocysteine levels might not be associated with carotid artery atherosclerosis in SSc patients. The measurement of plasma homocysteine levels in SSc patients might be useful for the risk stratifications of severe skin sclerosis, DU and AO.
Pollination partners of Mucuna macrocarpa (Fabaceae) at the northern limit of its range
Authors: Kobayashi Shun , Denda Tetsuo , Mashiba Shigehiko , Iwamoto Toshitaka , Doi Teruo , Izawa Masako
Published: October 2014

Mucuna macrocarpa is a plant found in tropical and subtropical regions that requires an “explosive opening.” Explosive opening is the process that exposes the stamen and pistil from the opening of the carina. This process is needed for cross pollination; however, the plant cannot open itself and opening by an animal is needed. The most common opener of Mucuna flowers is several nectar‐eating bats (e.g., Syconycteris), but the flying fox, Pteropus dasymallus, is the only opener of M. macrocarpa on the subtropical island of Okinawajima. Here, we present the explosive openers and possible pollinators in the northernmost and temperate Kamae region, Kyushu, Japan, where nectar‐eating bats are absent. The Japanese macaque, Macaca fuscata, and the Japanese marten, Martes melampus, were the explosive openers observed during our survey in Kamae. Martens opened flowers using their snout in a manner similar to that of the flying fox, whereas macaques opened flowers using their hands. This is the first time that an animal has been observed opening these flowers with its hands rather than snout. In total, 97% (n = 283) of explosively opened flowers were opened by macaques, and the macaque largely contributed to the overall flower opening. Because many pollen grains become attached to the explosive openers, they are considered to be primary pollinators. Furthermore, two bee species, Apis cerana japonica and Bombus ardens ardens, also visited opened flowers and collected pollen, and they were possibly secondary pollinators.
Private transaction costs of participation in water quality improvement programs for Australia's Great Barrier Reef: Extent, causes and policy implications
Authors: Coggan Anthea , van Grieken Martijn , Boullier Alexis , Jardi Xavier
Published: October 2014

The direct private cost to landholders of participating in programs that result in improved farming activities (IFAs) is generally well understood. However, the private indirect or transaction costs, such as the cost of a landholder's time and the expense to learn about IFAs and apply for assistance to implement these changes on‐farm, are not so well understood. Where these have been studied, they have been shown to be extensive. We assess the extent and causes of private transaction costs incurred by sugarcane growers participating in the Australian Government's Reef Rescue scheme which pays farmers to adopt environmentally beneficial farm management practices. Utilising a mail‐out‐mail‐back survey of 110 growers, we found that the average total transaction cost per farm of participating in the program was AU$8389. The average total transaction costs per farm as a percentage of the average funding provided was 38 per cent. We also assessed which type of improved farming activity (soil, nutrient, pest or water management) generated the greatest transaction costs and how landholder characteristics such as bounded rationality, opportunism and social connection impacted on the extent of transaction costs.
Preparation and evaluation of low‐calorie functional ice cream containing inulin, lactulose and Bifidobacterium lactis
Authors: Hashemi Majid , Gheisari Hamid Reza , Shekarforoush Shahram
Published: October 2014

This study was aimed to investigate the effects of replacing 5% fat and sugar by inulin and lactulose, respectively, on the survival of Bifidobacterium lactis and physicochemical and sensorial characteristics of the ice cream. Total solids, pH, melting rate and sensory scores of low‐fat and/or low‐sugar ice cream samples did not differ significantly from the control. Overrun and hardness of low‐fat samples were significantly higher than that of the control group (P < 0.01). The viable counts of B. lactis in the low‐sugar synbiotic ice creams were significantly lower than that of other groups at the end of 90‐day storage (P < 0.01).
Review article: Maxillofacial emergencies: Maxillofacial trauma
Authors: DeAngelis Adrian F , Barrowman Roland A , Harrod Richard , Nastri Alf L
Published: October 2014

Fractures of the facial skeleton are a common reason for patients to present to EDs and general medical practice in Australia. Trauma to the maxillofacial region can lead to airway obstruction, intracranial injuries, loss of vision or long term cosmetic and functional deficits. This article focuses on the emergency assessment, triage and non‐specialist management of traumatic injuries of the orbit and facial skeleton.
How does online social networking help leaders communicate? evidence from the Fortune 500
Authors: Korzynski Pawel
Published: October 2014

Effective organizational leadership and human resource management depend upon efficient communication. However, online social networking is revolutionizing the way this occurs. Contrary to traditional forms of media where communication flows in a linear manner, online social networking (OSN) platforms enable individuals to interact with each other, thereby making communication a two‐way process. Networking platforms are dramatically changing the way in which people communicate especially in global organizations that operate in different time zones and countries. This paper explores how OSN influences the internal communication effectiveness of today's leaders and their reports. A significant stream of research states that communication effectiveness is the foundation of modern organizations.Given that a number of these modern organizations have started to use OSN platforms internally as another channel of communication, it is crucial to identify ways in which today's leaders can communicate effectively in an online setting and what organizational features can facilitate use of new technology. The study shows the importance of leader adjustment to an online setting. However it also cautions that a supportive culture is needed, and there are instances where OSN cannot replace direct face‐to‐face communication.
Hepatoprotective and antineoplastic properties of Protaetia brevitarsis larvae
Authors: Lee Ji‐Eun , Jo Da‐Eun , Lee An‐Jung , Park Hye‐Kyung , Youn Kumju , Yun Eun‐Young , Hwang Jae‐Sam , Jun Mira , Kang Byoung Heon
Published: October 2014

Protaetia brevitarsis larvae have been used as a traditional medicine to treat various liver diseases. Freeze‐dried powder and solvent partitioned fractions of Protaetia brevitarsis larvae, in this study, were examined for hepatoprotective and antitumor activities in vivo and in vitro. Oral administration of the powder reduced signs of acute and chronic liver injuries in diethylnitrosamine‐induced hepatotoxic mouse model. Various cancer cell types, but not normal primary hepatocytes, were killed by the hexane, ethyl acetate and butanol fractions, which were partitioned from larval extracts. Apoptosis and autophagy were primarily induced in cancer cells by hexane and ethyl acetate fractions, respectively, and can be the cytotoxic mechanisms of the fractions. Further analyses of the insect fractions could lead to identification of novel bioactive substances that can be exploited as therapeutics for various human liver diseases.
Temporal Sodium Release Related to Gel Microstructural Properties—Implications for Sodium Reduction
Authors: Kuo Wan‐Yuan , Lee Youngsoo
Published: October 2014

The microstructure of food can be engineered to enhance sodium release during mastication, which may be used as a strategy to reduce sodium content in foods. This study aimed to relate sodium release to microstructural properties of solid lipoproteic colloid (SLC) foods. The SLC gels with 1.5% (w/w) NaCl were prepared by homogenization of whey protein isolate and anhydrous milk fat, followed by heat‐induced gelation. The gels varied in protein content (8% or 16%), fat content (0%, 11%, 22%, or 33%), and homogenization pressures (14 or 55 MPa). The maximum rate of sodium release during the initial gel compression increased with increasing gel porosity and pore size. This was due to more releasable serum in the gels with larger pore volume and larger pores. The maximum concentration of sodium at the end of sodium release increased with reduced size of the fat particles in the gels. The smaller fat particles were dispersed more uniformly and interrupted the protein network more, and facilitated the gel breakdown. The above findings suggested that, during the breakdown of the SLC gels, the major mechanisms of sodium release are via serum release followed by sodium diffusion, which are governed by the gel porosity and the particle size of fat, respectively. This study demonstrated the dependence of temporal sodium release properties on the microstructural properties of an SLC food system. The findings from this study could lay the foundation for further investigation of the dependence of saltiness perception on SLC microstructure, which can provide insight for sodium reduction in SLC products.
The development and characterization of a 57K single nucleotide polymorphism array for rainbow trout
Authors: Palti Y. , Gao G. , Liu S. , Kent M. P. , Lien S. , Miller M. R. , Rexroad C. E. , Moen T.
Published: October 2014

In this study, we describe the development and characterization of the first high‐density single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping array for rainbow trout. The SNP array is publically available from a commercial vendor (Affymetrix). The SNP genotyping quality was high, and validation rate was close to 90%. This is comparable to other farm animals and is much higher than previous smaller scale SNP validation studies in rainbow trout. High quality and integrity of the genotypes are evident from sample reproducibility and from nearly 100% agreement in genotyping results from other methods. The array is very useful for rainbow trout aquaculture populations with more than 40 900 polymorphic markers per population. For wild populations that were confounded by a smaller sample size, the number of polymorphic markers was between 10 577 and 24 330. Comparison between genotypes from individual populations suggests good potential for identifying candidate markers for populations' traceability. Linkage analysis and mapping of the SNPs to the reference genome assembly provide strong evidence for a wide distribution throughout the genome with good representation in all 29 chromosomes. A total of 68% of the genome scaffolds and contigs were anchored through linkage analysis using the SNP array genotypes, including ~20% of the genome assembly that has not been previously anchored to chromosomes.
Thrombotic Primary Antiphospholipid Syndrome: the profile of antibody positivity in patients from North India
Authors: Ahluwalia Jasmina , Sreedharanunni Sreejesh , Kumar Narender , Masih Joseph , Bose Sunil Kumar , Varma Neelam , Varma Subhash , Singh Surjit
Published: October 2014

Aim

We evaluated the frequency of antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (APS) in patients presenting with thrombosis of various vascular beds from North India and report the antibody profiles encountered.

Patients and methods

A retrospective analysis was performed on the laboratory results of aCL (anticardiolipin), aβ2Gp1 (anti‐βeta‐2 glycoprotein 1) antibody and LAC (lupus anticoagulant) of 1222 consecutive patients referred to the coagulation laboratory work‐up for a hypercoagulable/thrombophilic state over a period of 4 years between 2009 and 2013. LAC was screened with dRVVT (diluted Russel Viper Venom Test) and KCT (Kaolin clotting time), and aCL and aβ2Gp1 antibodies with commercial enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assy kits.

Results

The current APS criteria was satisfied in 3.85% of all patients and 4.2% of pediatric patients with thrombosis. The venous circulation was more frequently affected (59.6%). Cerebral arterial and intra‐abdominal vein involvement was common. Transient antibody positivity was seen in 44 (3.6%) cases. aβ2Gp1, aCL and LAC were positive in 95%, 54.5% and 23% of patients with APS, respectively, during the initial visit and 93.6%, 23% and 17%, respectively, during the follow‐up visit. Persistent triple positivity was seen in only three cases. At initial testing, positivity for both aCL and aβ2Gp1 was the most frequent pattern (38% of cases).

Conclusions

aβ2Gp1 antibody was the commonest antibody that was persistently positive in patients with thrombosis. Triple positivity for all antibodies had the highest specificity and positive predictive value to diagnose APS in the first visit, whereas aβ2Gp1 antibody had the highest sensitivity and negative predictive value.
Clinical differences between Thai systemic sclerosis patients with positive versus negative anti‐topoisomerase I
Authors: Foocharoen Chingching , Suwannachat Prangsuporn , Netwijitpan Sittichai , Mahakkanukrauh Ajanee , Suwannaroj Siraphop , Nanagara Ratanavadee ,   the Scleroderma Research Group
Published: October 2014

Background

Anti‐topoisomerase I antibody (ATA) carries an increased risk of systemic sclerosis (SSc) internal organ involvement. There have been no published comparisons of the clinical characteristics of patients positive and negative for ATA in Thailand, where the positive rate for ATA is higher than among Caucasians.

Objective

To define the clinical differences between SSc, positive versus negative, for ATA.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was performed among SSc patients over 18 at Srinagarind Hospital, Khon Kaen University, Thailand, during January 2006–December 2013. SSc‐overlap syndrome was excluded.

Results

Two hundred and ninety‐four SSc patients were included (female : male 2.5 : 1). The majority (68.6%) were the diffuse cutaneous SSc subset (dcSSc). ATA was positive in 252 patients (85.7%), among whom 71.7% had dcSSc and 28.2% limited cutaneous SSc (lcSSc). Using a multivariate analysis, hand deformity had a significantly positive association with ATA (odds ratio [OR] 7.01; 95% CI 1.02–48.69), whereas being anti‐centromere (ACA) positive had a negative association (OR 0.17; 95% CI 0.03–0.92). After doing a subgroup analysis of the SSc subset, the median duration of disease at time of pulmonary fibrosis detection among ATA positive dcSSc was significantly shorter than the ATA negative group (1.05 vs. 6.77 years, P = 0.01). Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) at onset was significantly more frequent in lcSSc sufferers who were ATA negative than those who were ATA positive (90.5% vs. 56.9%, P = 0.005).

Conclusions

A high prevalence of ATA positivity was found among Thai SSc patients and this was associated with a high frequency of hand deformity, ACA negativity, a short duration of pulmonary fibrosis in dcSSc and a lower frequency of RP in lcSSc.
Europe's Role in Global Governance: Changing the European Debate
Authors: Wallace of Saltaire Lord William
Published: October 2014

Lord William Wallace considers Europe's role in a changing sphere of global governance. Reflecting upon Britain's 19th century role as the benevolent hegemon, and the influence of the US following the Second World War, Lord Wallace questions what Europe's role should be in the 21st century, hegemon‐free world. Considering the crisis in Eastern and Southern Europe and across the Middle East, Lord Wallace identifies a pragmatic middle ground. Both academics and politicians are tasked to convince their respective domestic publics of the importance of making way for the future of European society, while also stabilizing the crises on Europe's borders.
The EU's Engagement with Asia
Authors: Chenard Marie Julie , Arne Westad O.
Published: October 2014

Since the end of the Cold War the EU's relationship with Asia has evolved almost beyond recognition: from relatively low‐ranking, undeveloped and scattered, to highly salient, increasingly refined, comprehensive, systematic and coherent. Asia is now firmly positioned on the EU's global agenda. The aim of the paper is twofold: to examine the development of the EU's relationship with Asia since the end of the Cold War; and to explore ways in which the EU could play a more relevant role in Asia. Acknowledging the vast diversity in cultures, histories, languages, socioeconomic and political systems, foremost in Asia but also within the EU, this analysis focuses on three key issue areas: trade, security and the climate. The central argument put forward is that trade is not only essential to economic recovery and sustainable economic growth, but also a vehicle to reach progress on solving security issues, whether traditional or nontraditional. This study also offers evidence of the core ideas that underpin the way the EU engages with the world at large.
Eastern Partnership vs Eurasian Union? The EU–Russia Competition in the Shared Neighbourhood and the Ukraine Crisis
Authors: Cadier David
Published: October 2014

This article examines the nature and implications of the emerging EU–Russia competition in their common neighbourhood. After analysing the two economic integration platforms that the EU and Russia are respectively promoting in the postsoviet space, the Eastern Partnership (EaP) and the Eurasian Economic Union, the discussion focuses on the case study of Ukraine. It is argued that depicting this emerging regional configuration as a geopolitical contest between two cohesive blocs was not fully corresponding to the reality on the ground but that it largely turned into a self‐fulfilling prophecy in the case of Ukraine.
¿Puras Groserías?: Rethinking the Role of Profanity and Graphic Humor in Latin@ Students' Bilingual Wordplay
Authors: Martínez Ramón Antonio , Morales P. Zitlali
Published: October 2014

This article explores the role of profanity and graphic humor in the bilingual wordplay of Latin@ middle school students. We highlight the creativity, skill, and communicative competence embedded in this transgressive wordplay, revealing how these youth employed profanity and graphic humor to index ethnic solidarity and construct bilingual identities. We argue that further exploration of such wordplay might well reveal other functions and meanings that are obscured when it is simply dismissed as inappropriate.
Restorative Justice, Reintegration, and Race: Reclaiming Collective Identity in the Postracial Era
Authors: Utheim Ragnhild
Published: October 2014

Restorative justice has gained ascendancy within both judicial systems and educational settings through which court‐involved youth are resocialized as part of reintegration intervention. This article explores the conflict over collective representation at the intersections among public education, criminal justice, and restorative intervention. The author argues that restorative intervention must attempt to broaden its cultural reach and implicate the countercultural realities that exist at the margins of society and at the interstices of its own praxis.
The activity of satellite cells and myonuclei following 8 weeks of strength training in young men with suppressed testosterone levels
Authors: Kvorning T. , Kadi F. , Schjerling P. , Andersen M. , Brixen K. , Suetta C. , Madsen K.
Published: October 2014

Aim

To investigate how suppression of endogenous testosterone during an 8‐week strength training period influences the activity of satellite cells and myonuclei.

Methods

Twenty‐two moderately trained young men participated in this randomized, placebo‐controlled, and double‐blinded intervention study. The participants were randomized to treatment with a GnRH analogue, goserelin (n = 12), which suppresses testosterone or placebo (n = 10) for 12 weeks. The strength training period of 8 weeks started after 4 weeks of treatment and included exercises for all major muscles. Biopsies were obtained from the mid‐portion of the vastus lateralis muscle.

Results

Testosterone resting level in goserelin was 10–20 times lower compared with placebo, and the training‐induced increase in the level of testosterone was abolished in goserelin. Training increased satellite cells number in type II fibres by 20% in placebo and by 52% in goserelin (P < 0.01), whereas the myonuclear number significantly increased by 12% in type II fibres in placebo and remained unchanged in goserelin (P < 0.05). No changes in satellite cells and myonuclei were seen in type I fibres in either group. Data from the microarray analysis indicated that low testosterone affects the bone morphogenetic proteins signalling, which might regulate proliferation vs. differentiation of satellite cells.

Conclusion

Eight weeks of strength training enhances the myonuclear number in type II fibres, and this is largely blocked by the suppression of testosterone. The data indicate that low testosterone levels could reduce the differentiation of satellite cells to myonuclei via the bone morphogenetic proteins signalling pathway, resulting in reduced increases in lean leg mass.
Analysis of the factors creating consumer attributes of roasted beef steaks
Authors: Guzek Dominika , Głąbska Dominika , Gutkowska Krystyna , Wierzbicki Jerzy , Woźniak Alicja , Wierzbicka Agnieszka
Published: October 2014

The aim of the study was to analyze the factors creating consumer attributes of roasted beef steaks of various animals. Eight cuts from 30 carcasses (characterized by various types of animal, conformation and fat class, rib fat thickness, ossification score) were selected. Samples were prepared using the roasting method and consumers rated the tenderness, juiciness, flavor, overall acceptability (rated in a 100‐point scale), and satisfaction (rated from 2 to 5) for analyzed samples. No influence of type of animal, fat class, conformation class or ossification score on the results of consumer analysis was observed. For all analyzed factors, the influence of cut on consumer analysis was observed (the highest values of all consumer attributes were observed for tenderloin ‐ for juiciness significantly higher than for other cuts, for tenderness, flavor and MQ4 comparable only with rump (RMP231), while for overall acceptability and satisfaction – with both rump cuts). For rib fat thickness consumer attributes of roasted beef meat were not linear, but the influence was observed – the highest values of consumer attributes were observed for 13 mm rib fat thickness.
Comparison of the measurement of heart rate in adult free‐range chickens (Gallus domesticus) by auscultation and electrocardiography
Authors: Smith CF , Gavaghan BJ , McSweeney D , Powell V , Lisle A
Published: October 2014

Objective

To compare the heart rates of adult free‐range chickens (Gallus domesticus) measured by auscultation with a stethoscope with those measured simultaneously using electrocardiography (ECG).

Methods

With each bird in a standing position, estimation of the heart rate was performed by placing a mark on paper for every 4 beats for roosters and 8 beats for hens as detected by auscultation over 30 s, while simultaneous ECG was performed.

Results

Heart rates measured by auscultation showed a high correlation (r = 0.97) with those measured by ECG.

Conclusion

There was a high correlation between the heart rates of adult free‐range chickens measured by auscultation with a stethoscope and those measured simultaneously using ECG.
Changing trends in the causes and management of male urethral stricture disease in China: an observational descriptive study from 13 centres
Authors: Xu Yue‐Min , Song Lu‐Jie , Wang Kun‐Jie , Lin Jian , Sun Guang , Yue Zhong‐Jin , Jiang Hai , Shan Yu‐Xi , Zhu Shao‐Xing , Wang Yu‐Jie , Liu Zhi‐Ming , Li Zhen‐Hua , Liu Zhong‐Hua , Chen Qing‐Ke , Xie Min‐Kai
Published: October 2014

Objective

To determine whether there have been any changes in the causes and management of urethral strictures in China.

Patients and Methods

The data from 4 764 men with urethral stricture disease who underwent treatment at 13 medical centres in China between 2005 and 2010 were retrospectively collected. The databases were analysed for the possible causes, site and treatment techniques for the urethral stricture, as well as for changes in the causes and management of urethral strictures.

Results

The most common cause of urethral strictures was trauma, which occurred in 2 466 patients (51.76%). The second most common cause was iatrogenic injures, which occurred in 1 643 patients (34.49%). The most common techniques to treat urethral strictures were endourological surgery (1 740, 36.52%), anastomotic urethroplasty (1 498, 31.44%) and substitution urethroplasty (1 039, 21.81%). A comparison between the first 3 years and the last 3 years showed that the constituent ratio of endourological surgery decreased from 54% to 32.75%, whereas the constituent ratios of anastomotic urethroplasty and substitution urethroplasty increased from 26.73% and 19.18% to 39.93% and 27.32%, respectively (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

During recent years, there has been an increase in the incidence of urethral strictures caused by trauma and iatrogenic injury. Endourological urethral surgery rates decreased significantly, and open urethroplasty rates increased significantly during the last 3 years.
Prognostic factors influencing survival from regionally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the penis after preoperative chemotherapy
Authors: Dickstein Rian J. , Munsell Mark F. , Pagliaro Lance C. , Pettaway Curtis A.
Published: October 2014

Objective

To describe both clinical and pathological response rates, survival, and predictors of survival when using contemporary perioperative chemotherapy and surgical resection for patients with regionally advanced squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the penis.

Patients and Methods

Retrospective review of all patients diagnosed withSCCof the penis and regional lymph node metastases that were treated with chemotherapy with the intent to undergo lymphadenectomy. Clinical and pathological responses were reported. Recurrence‐free and overall survival was estimated usingKaplan–Meier analysis. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to assess factors for survival.

Results

In all, 61 patients were identified, of which 54 (90%) received chemotherapy with paclitaxel/ifosfamide/cisplatin. In all, 39 patients (65%) had either a partial (PR) or complete response (CR) to chemotherapy. The 5‐year survival varied significantly (P= 0.045–0.001) among patients achieving aCR/PR(50%), stable disease (25%), and progression (7.7%). In all, 10 patients (16.4%) were renderedpN0with combined therapy and 20 patients (33%) were alive and disease free at a median follow‐up of 67 months, while 32 (52%) died from disease. Long‐term survival was associated with response to chemotherapy and favourable pathological findings after resection.

Conclusion

Contemporary chemotherapy resulted in clinically significant responses among patients with regionally advanced penile cancer. About 50% of such patients with an objective response to chemotherapy who undergo consolidative lymphadenectomy will remain alive at 5 years.
Three‐dimensional navigation system integrating position‐tracking technology with a movable tablet display for percutaneous targeting
Authors: Marien Arnaud , de Luis Abreu Andre Castro , Desai Mihir , Azhar Raed A. , Chopra Sameer , Shoji Sunao , Matsugasumi Toru , Nakamoto Masahiko , Gill Inderbir S. , Ukimura Osamu
Published: October 2014

Objectives

To assess the feasibility of a novel percutaneous navigation system (Translucent Medical, Inc., Santa Cruz, CA, USA) that integrates position‐tracking technology with a movable tablet display.

Materials and Methods

A total of 18 fiducial markers, which served as the target centres for the virtual tumours (target fiducials), were implanted in the prostate and kidney of a fresh cadaver, and preoperative computed tomography (CT) was performed to allow three‐dimensional model reconstruction of the surgical regions, which were registered on the body intra‐operatively. The position of the movable tablet's display could be selected to obtain the best recognition of the interior anatomy. The system was used to navigate the puncture needle (with position‐tracking sensor attached) using a colour‐coded, predictive puncture‐line. When the operator punctured the target fiducial, another fiducial, serving as the centre of the ablative treatment (treatment fiducial), was placed. Postoperative CT was performed to assess the digitized distance (representing the real distance) between the target and treatment fiducials to evaluate the accuracy of the procedure.

Results

The movable tablet display, with position‐tracking sensor attached, enabled the surgeon to visualize the three‐dimensional anatomy of the internal organs with the help of an overlaid puncture line for the puncture needle, which also had a position‐tracking sensor attached. The mean (virtual) distance from the needle tip to the target (calculated using the computer workstation), was 2.5 mm. In an analysis of each digitalized axial component, the errors were significantly greater along the z‐axis (P < 0.01), suggesting that the errors were caused by organ shift or deformation.

Conclusion

This virtual navigation system, integrating a position‐tracking sensor with a movable tablet display, is a promising advancement for facilitating percutaneous interventions. The movable display over the patient shows a preoperative three‐dimensional image that is aligned to the patient. Moving the display moves the image, creating the feeling of looking through a window into the patient, resulting in instant perception and a direct, intuitive connection between the physician and the anatomy.
Plant‐Derived Flavones as Inhibitors of Aurora B Kinase and Their Quantitative Structure–Activity Relationships
Authors: Jung Yearam , Shin Soon Young , Yong Yeonjoong , Jung Hyeryoung , Ahn Seunghyun , Lee Young Han , Lim Yoongho
Published: October 2014

Although several plant‐derived flavones inhibit auroraBkinase (aurB), quantitative relationships between the structural properties of plant‐derived flavones and their inhibitory effects on aurB remain unclear. In this report, these quantitative structure–activity relationships were obtained. For quercetagetin, found in theEriocaulonspecies, showing the bestIC50value among the flavone derivatives tested in this report, further biological tests were performed using cell‐based assays, including Western blot analysis, flow cytometry, and immunofluorescence microscopy.In vitrocellular experiments demonstrated that quercetagetin inhibits aurB. The molecular‐binding mode between quercetagetin and aurB was elucidated usingin silicodocking. Quercetagetin binds to aurB, aurA, and aurC and prevents the active phosphorylation of all three aurora kinases. In addition, quercetagetin triggers mitotic arrest and caspase‐mediated apoptosis. These observations suggest that quercetagetin is an aurora kinase inhibitor. Induction of mitosis‐associated tumor cell death by quercetagetin is a promising strategy for developing novel chemotherapeutic anticancer agents.
Targeting Receptor Tyrosine Kinases and Their Downstream Signaling with Cell‐Penetrating Peptides in Human Pulmonary Artery Smooth Muscle and Endothelial Cells
Authors: Yu Jun , Rupasinghe Chamila , Wilson Jamie L. , Taylor Linda , Rahimi Nader , Mierke Dale , Polgar Peter
Published: October 2014

Cell‐penetrating peptide (CPP) intracellular delivery of receptor signaling motifs provides an opportunity to regulate specific receptor tyrosine kinase signal transductions. We targeted tyrosine residues Y740 and Y751 of the PDGF receptor β (PDGFRβ) and Y1175 of the VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR2). The Y740 and Y751 motifs activated ERK and Akt, while the Y1175 motif activated ERK. Targeting either Y740 or Y751 of the PDGFRβ in human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (HPASMC) effectively inhibited PDGF activation of ERK or Akt. Interfering with the Y751 region of the PDGFRβ proved more effective than targeting the Y740 region. The phosphorylation of Y751 of the CPP and the length and exact sequence of the mimicking peptide proved crucial. On the other hand, in human pulmonary artery endothelial cell phosphorylation of the VEGFR2 Y1175 CPP was not a determinant in blockage of ERK activation. Likewise, the length of the peptide mimic was not crucial with a very small sequence containing the Y1175 remaining effective. Physiologic proof of concept for the effectiveness of the CPP was confirmed by blockage of HPASMC migration in response to PDGF following culture injury. Thus targeted blockage of tyrosine kinase receptor signaling can be very effective.
Regulation of the alternative pathway of complement modulates injury and immunity in a chronic model of dextran sulphate sodium-induced colitis
Authors: Elvington M , Schepp-Berglind J , Tomlinson S
Published: October 2014

The role of complement in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has been studied primarily using acute models, and it is unclear how complement affects processes in more relevant chronic models of IBD in which modulation of adaptive immunity and development of fibrosis have pathogenic roles. Using mice deficient in C1q/mannose-binding lectin (MBL) or C3, we demonstrated an important role for these opsonins and/or the classical pathway C3 convertase in providing protection against mucosal injury and infection in a model of chronic dextran sulphate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis. In contrast, deficiency of the alternative pathway (fB–/– mice) had significantly less impact on injury profiles. Consequently, the effect of a targeted inhibitor of the alternative pathway was investigated in a therapeutic protocol. Following the establishment of colitis, mice were treated with CR2-fH during subsequent periods of DSS treatment and acute injury (modelling relapse). CR2-fH significantly reduced complement activation, inflammation and injury in the colon, and additionally reduced fibrosis. Alternative pathway inhibition also altered the immune response in the chronic state in terms of reducing numbers of B cells, macrophages and mature dendritic cells in the lamina propria. This study indicates an important role for the alternative pathway of complement in the pathogenesis and the shaping of an immune response in chronic DSS-induced colitis, and supports further investigation into the use of targeted alternative pathway inhibition for the treatment of IBD.
Preoperative biliary drainage
Authors: Saxena Payal , Kumbhari Vivek , Zein Mohamad E.L. , Khashab Mouen A
Published: October 2014

The role of preoperative biliary drainage (PBD) in patients with distal or proximal biliary obstruction secondary to resectable tumors has been a matter for debate. A review of the literature using Medline, Embase and Cochrane databases was undertaken for studies evaluating routes of drainage (endoscopic or percutaneous) and stent types (plastic or metal) in patients with resectable disease. Preoperative biliary drainage is indicated for relief of symptomatic jaundice, cholangitis, patients undergoing neoadjuvant therapy or those patients where surgery may be delayed. Endoscopic methods are preferred over percutaneous methods because of lower complication rates. In patients with proximal biliary obstruction, PBD should be guided by imaging studies to aid in selective biliary cannulation for unilateral drainage in order to reduce the risk of cholangitis in undrained liver segments.
The application of Kinesio Taping in children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Iosa Marco
Published: October 2014

This commentary is on the original article by Kara et al.on pages 81–88 of this issue.
A new witness of the third recension of ps.‐Methodius' Revelationes: Winithar's manuscript St Gallen, Stiftsbibliothek, MS 238 and the role of Rome in human history
Authors: Grifoni Cinzia
Published: October 2014

Winithar, monk and decanus at Saint‐Gall in the second half of the eighth century, is known to modern scholarship as the writer of one charter and of several manuscripts. This article focuses on Winithar's autograph St Gallen 238, arguing that its various texts were in part collected and copied, and in part perhaps composed by Winithar himself, in light of a specific editorial plan. In this plan, the text entitled De gentibus, a new witness of the Revelationes by ps.‐Methodius in its so‐called third recension, confers on the Romans of Rome the leading role among western peoples until Judgement Day.
Impact of dental treatment under general anesthesia on the oral health‐related quality of life of adolescents and adults with special needs
Authors: Chang Juhea , Patton Lauren L. , Kim Hae‐Young
Published: October 2014

This study aimed to assess the perception of the family's primary caregiver on the oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL), and the impact on family dynamics, of dental treatment under general anesthesia (GA) in adolescent and adult patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and neurocognitive disorders. Self‐administered questionnaires were completed, before dental treatment, by 116 primary family caregivers of patients who received dental treatment under GA, and 102 (88%) of these caregivers completed the same questionnaires within 4 wk after treatment. The Child Oral Health Impact Profile (COHIP) and the Family Impact Scale (FIS) were shortened to a 14‐item COHIP (COHIP‐14) and a 12‐item FIS (FIS‐12) based on the limitations of patients’ communication. The COHIP‐14 and FIS‐12 scores and each subscale improved after treatment. The baseline scores varied based on certain characteristics of the patients, such as age, disabilities, medications, caregivers, meal types, cooperation levels, and treatment needs. The postoperative improvement in OHRQoL was significant in the patients who were older than 30 yr of age, originally eating soft meals, displaying no or very low levels of cooperation, or receiving endodontic treatment. Based on the primary caregiver perceptions, the OHRQoL of adolescents and adults with IDD and neurocognitive disorders was improved by dental treatment under GA.
Productivity Growth in Private–Equity–Backed Family Firms
Authors: Croce Annalisa , Martí José
Published: October 2014

We study the reluctance of family firms to accept private equity (PE) investors and the impact of PE on family firms’ performance. We analyze the productivity growth in a sample of 257 PE–backed family firms, 143 of which were run by the founding generation. We compare these firms with both non–PE–backed family firms and non family PE–backed firms. We find that family firms accessing PE show lower productivity growth before the initial PE round, which is driven by an imbalance between inputs and output, especially in founder–controlled firms. Our results also confirm the positive impact of PE involvement on productivity growth in founder–controlled firms.
Cues of Predation Risk Induce Instar‐ and Genotype‐Specific Changes in Pea Aphid Colony Spatial Structure
Authors: Keiser Carl N. , Mondor Edward B.
Published: October 2014

Deploying collective antipredator behaviors during periods of increased predation risk is a major determinant of individual fitness for most animal groups. Pea aphids, Acyrthosiphon pisum, which live in aggregations of genetically identical individuals produced via asexual reproduction warn nearby conspecifics of pending attack by secreting a volatile alarm pheromone. This alarm pheromone allows clone‐mates to evade predation by walking away or dropping off the host plant. Here, we test how a single alarm pheromone emission influences colony structure and defensive behavior in this species. Relative to control colonies, groups exposed to alarm pheromone exhibited pronounced escape behavior where many individuals relocated to adjacent leaves on the host plant. Alarm pheromone reception, however, also had subtle instar‐specific effects: The proportion of 1st instars feeding nearest the leaf petiole decreased as these individuals moved to adjacent leaves, while the proportion of 2nd–3rd instars feeding nearest the leaf petiole remained constant. Fourth instars also dispersed to neighboring leaves after pheromone exposure. Lastly, alarm pheromone reception caused maternal aphids to alter their preferred feeding sites in a genotype‐specific manner: Maternal aphids of the green genotype fed further from the petiole, while maternal aphids of the pink genotype fed closer to the petiole. Together, our results suggest that aphid colony responses to alarm pheromone constitute a diversity of nuanced instar‐ and genotype‐specific effects. These behavioral responses can dramatically change the spatial organization of colonies and their collective defensive behavior.