bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of ascorbic acid and high oxygen modified atmosphere packaging during storage of fresh-cut eggplants
Authors: Li Xihong , Jiang Yuqian , Li Weili , Tang Yao , Yun Juan
Published: February 2014

Ascorbic acid dip and high O2 modified atmosphere packaging were used to alleviate browning and quality loss of fresh-cut eggplants. Fresh-cut eggplants were dipped in water or 0.5% ascorbic acid solution for 2 min before being packed in polyethylene film bags filled with air or high O2. The physiochemical and sensorial attributes of cut eggplants were evaluated during 12 days for storage at 4 ℃. Results demonstrated that high O2 modified atmosphere packaging and ascorbic acid dip improved the preservation of fresh-cut eggplants compared with the control. High O2 showed an ability to reduce the browning and inhibit polyphenol oxidase and peroxidase activities. Higher total phenolic content and lower malondialdehyde content were also observed in ascorbic acid treated samples during storage. Moreover, the combination of ascorbic acid and high O2 was more effective than single treatments. The surface color was protected by ascorbic acid and high O2 packaging, and higher sensory scores were observed after 12 days of storage.
English Teachers’ Cultural Models About Technology
Authors: Curwood Jen Scott
Published: February 2014

Prompted by calls for research on technology-focused professional development, this ethnographic case study investigates how teachers’ participation in learning communities may influence technology integration within the secondary English curriculum. In this article, I draw on educational psychology, cognitive anthropology, and sociolinguistics to build a theory of teacher learning. I then take a microethnographic approach to discourse analysis to show how teachers’ use of language and contextualization cues within a learning community reflects their cultural models, or everyday beliefs, about technology. This study addresses two gaps in the literature. First, it explores the role of situated language in constructing English teachers’ cultural models related to technology. Second, it examines micro-level interactions within a professional learning community to understand how teacher learning occurs in social and cultural contexts. The analysis suggests that the implementation of educational reforms, including reforms associated with technology integration and literacy education, is often dependent upon teachers’ skills, values, and cultural models.
Systematic review of research into frequent callers to crisis helplines
Authors: Middleton Aves , Gunn Jane , Bassilios Bridget , Pirkis Jane
Published: February 2014

Summary

We conducted a systematic review of research into callers making multiple calls to crisis helplines. Two databases were searched, identifying 561 articles from 1960 until 2012, of which 63 were relevant. Twenty-one articles from 19 separate studies presented empirical data about callers making multiple calls to crisis helplines. Of the 19 studies, three were intervention studies, five were surveys of callers and 11 were call record audits. Most studies were conducted in the USA and defined frequent callers as people making two or more calls. Frequent callers were more likely to be male and unmarried compared to other callers. There were no reported differences between frequent callers and other callers with regard to age, mental health conditions or suicidality. Three studies tested interventions designed to better manage frequent callers. These studies, even though small, reported reductions in the number of calls made by frequent callers. Suggested techniques for responding to frequent callers included: limiting the number and duration of calls allowed, assigning a specific counsellor, implementing face to face contact, the service initiating contact with the caller instead of waiting for callers to contact the service, providing short term anxiety and depression treatment programmes by telephone, and creating a specific management plan for each frequent caller. Future work requires robust study design methods using larger sample sizes and validated measurements.
Sensory experiences of children with autism spectrum disorder: In their own words
Authors: Kirby Anne V , Dickie Virginia A , Baranek Grace T
Published: February 2014

First-person perspectives of children with autism spectrum disorder are rarely included in research, yet their voices may help more clearly illuminate their needs. This study involved phenomenological interviews with children with autism spectrum disorder ( n = 12, ages 4–13) used to gain insights about their sensory experiences. This article addresses two study aims: determining the feasibility of interviewing children with autism spectrum disorder and exploring how they share information about their sensory experiences during the qualitative interview process. With the described methods, children as young as 4 years old and across a broad range of autism severity scores successfully participated in the interviews. The manner with which children shared information about their sensory experiences included themes of normalizing, storytelling, and describing responses. The interviews also revealed the importance of context and the multisensory nature of children’s experiences. These findings contribute strategies for understanding the sensory experiences of children with autism spectrum disorder with implications for practice and future research.
Residents’ and experts’ perspectives for evaluation of importance of Health Performance Indicators in social housings
Authors: Kang Na Na , Lee Tae Kyung , Kim Jeong Tai , Kim Chi Gyo
Published: February 2014

This study evaluates the health performance of high-density, high-rise public housing in Korea to seek ways to improve their performance for the health and wellbeing of occupants. To do this, the existing ‘Health Performance Indicator for the Public Housing’ developed by a previous study in 2010 was utilized to compare and analyse the characteristic differences as evaluated by experts and the residents. The survey tool was developed to allow evaluation by the experts using pairwise comparison between components; while the residents were asked to evaluate the relative importance of the components in the survey tool. Furthermore, Analytic Hierarchy Process was applied to the evaluation given by experts and PASW statistical package was used to analyse the survey results given by the residents. The results showed that the residents do have a high awareness of the impacts of the various components in their apartments that could be seen visually, revealing a partial difference in their awareness in comparison to that given by the experts. It is therefore necessary to utilize this understanding of the experts and residents in order to meet the actual demands of the residents in accordance with their awareness. It is expected that the evaluation results of this study would be used in the construction plan of new apartments to promote healthy housing and to incorporate not just the experts’ view but also the demand of the residents.
Normal behavior of plasma procalcitonin in adolescents undergoing surgery for scoliosis
Authors: Syvänen J. , Peltola V. , Pajulo O. , Ruuskanen O. , Mertsola J. , Helenius I.
Published: February 2014

Background and Aims:

Surgical site infections are relatively common after spinal deformity surgery. Early detection of deep wound infections is important, since it may allow retention of spinal instrumentation. However, serum C-reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate may remain elevated for almost 6 weeks, making differential diagnosis of systemic inflammatory response and acute deep bacterial wound infection difficult. Plasma procalcitonin has been suggested to be a useful indicator for bacterial infection. However, there are no studies evaluating behavior of procalcitonin in patients undergoing major spine surgery with instrumentation.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 50 consecutive adolescents (37 idiopathic scoliosis and 13 neuromuscular scoliosis, mean age = 15 years at surgery and follow-up time = 21 months (range = 12–29 months)) undergoing scoliosis surgery participated in this prospective follow-up study. White blood cell count, serum C-reactive protein, and plasma procalcitonin levels were measured on the day before surgery, on the day of surgery, and daily thereafter for 1 week. None of the patients developed signs of acute or delayed wound infection during the follow-up period; however, two neuromuscular scoliosis patients developed severe postoperative pneumonia, and their inflammatory parameter data will be reported separately.

Results:

Plasma procalcitonin levels peaked on the first postoperative day (mean = 0.19 ng/mL, range = 0.04–1.29 ng/mL), and mean values were less than 0.5 ng/mL during the whole first postoperative week, while C-reactive protein remained elevated during the whole first postoperative week (highest mean value = 63.8 mg/L (range = 5–248 mg/L) on third postoperative day). Patients with idiopathic scoliosis had lower C-reactive protein levels (p < 0.05 from first to sixth postoperative day) and lower procalcitonin levels (p < 0.05 from third to seventh postoperative day) than neuromuscular scoliosis patients. Two patients with postoperative pneumonia showed elevated procalcitonin values over the whole postoperative week (22.34 ng/mL and 0.72 ng/mL highest values, respectively).

Conclusions:

Elevated plasma procalcitonin levels seem useful when excluding acute deep wound infection from systemic inflammatory response.
Double-Barreled Wet Colostomy versus Ileal Conduit and Terminal Colostomy for Urinary and Fecal Diversion: A Single Institution Experience
Authors: Pavlov M. J. , Ceranic M. S. , Nale D. P. , Latincic S. M. , Kecmanovic D. M.
Published: February 2014

Background and Aims:

The aim of this study was to compare the feasibility and early postoperative outcomes between patients undergoing double-barreled wet colostomy and patients undergoing terminal colostomy and ileal conduit for simultaneous urinary and fecal diversion.

Material and Methods:

Between 1995 and 2012, we had 181 patients in whom it was necessary to make simultaneous urinary and fecal diversion. This is a retrospective study and patients were divided into two groups, depending on the technique applied for the fecal and urinary diversion. The first group consisted of patients undergoing ileal conduit and terminal colostomy and the second group consisted of patients undergoing  double-barreled wet colostomy.

Results:

Ileal conduit and terminal colostomy was performed in 77 (43%) cases, while wet colostomy was performed in 104 (57%) cases. Median length of stay was shorter for double-barreled wet colostomy (13.1 vs 18.1, p < 0.0001). Median operating times for urinary and fecal diversion were shorter for double-barreled wet colostomy (32 vs 64 min, p < 0.0001). The morbidity was lower for double-barreled wet colostomy (11.5% vs 23.4%, p = 0.0432), retrospectively. The mortality was 3.8% for double-barreled wet colostomy and 10.3% for ileal conduit and terminal colostomy group (p = 0.1282).

Conclusions:

Double-barreled wet colostomy is a safe, fast, and simple alternative to traditional ileal conduit and terminal colostomy diversion. The technique is relatively easy to learn, and it reduces the time for urinary and fecal diversion, length of stay, and morbidity rate.
Traumatic tension chylothorax: Lessons from a rare complication of thoracic spinal trauma
Authors: Adamson Louise , Saunders John , McNeill Gregor , Forward Daren , Shafafy Masood
Published: February 2014

Injury to the thoracic duct following blunt trauma can rarely result in tension chylothorax. We report a case of traumatic tension chylothorax in a young man with cervical and thoracic spine injuries after he was hit by the open luggage compartment of a passing bus. Diagnosis was made on the fourth day following injury when he became short of breath during physiotherapy, and then deteriorated rapidly with haemodynamic compromise. The tension chylothorax was treated with intercostal drainage leading to immediate resolution of cardiorespiratory function. No further surgical intervention was required. This case highlights three important learning points: pleural fluid, not just air, can cause tension; seriously injured patients should have a multidisciplinary trauma team assessment on arrival to hospital and when reviewing radiographs, all the structures should be carefully examined, not just those that the study was performed to examine.
Cash flow at risk and risk management in bulk shipping company: Case of capesize bulk carrier
Authors: Han Tzeu-Chen , Chou Chien-Chang , Wang Chih-Ming
Published: February 2014

The purpose of this article is to propose an integrated approach for measuring the financial risk in the shipping business. The integrated approach combines the autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity model, historical data distribution goodness-of-fit test and Monte Carlo simulation. First, a typical forecasting based on the autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity model is presented to evaluate future cash flows and find that it continues to fall at short periods. Second, the cash flow at-risk measurement by simulation is to understand maximum potential cash flow deficit, and through exposure to develop a risk management strategy that will enable the shipowners or operators to effectively identify, quantify and control most financial risks and exposures.
The impact of an ethics training programme on the success of clinical ethics services
Authors: Dörries Andrea , Simon Alfred , Vollmann Jochen , Neitzke Gerald
Published: February 2014

The interdisciplinary Hannover Qualification Programme on ethics consultation has trained hospital staff to operate clinical ethics services in their respective hospitals since 2003. To evaluate Hannover Qualification Programme, all former participants were contacted using an online questionnaire including four domains: status quo before attending Hannover Qualification Programme, present status, impact of Hannover Qualification Programme, future challenges. Research objectives were the long-term satisfaction with Hannover Qualification Programme and its impact on clinical ethics services. The response rate was 45% (167/369). Hannover Qualification Programme was evaluated as helpful and the responders were capable of applying their acquired skills. Most participants could contribute to the implementation of clinical ethics services. They were satisfied with Hannover Qualification Programme and with the degree of changes in their hospitals. In conclusion, clinical ethics education had long-term effects on trainees and on their respective hospitals. Problems were mentioned rather in the field of utilisation than with implementation or quality of clinical ethics services.
Novel Methods to Collect Meaningful Data From Adolescents for the Development of Health Interventions
Authors: Hieftje Kimberly , Duncan Lindsay R. , Fiellin Lynn E.
Published: February 2014

Health interventions are increasingly focused on young adolescents, and as a result, discussions with this population have become a popular method in qualitative research. Traditional methods used to engage adults in discussions do not translate well to this population, who may have difficulty conceptualizing abstract thoughts and opinions and communicating them to others. As part of a larger project to develop and evaluate a video game for risk reduction and HIV prevention in young adolescents, we were seeking information and ideas from the priority audience that would help us create authentic story lines and character development in the video game. To accomplish this authenticity, we conducted in-depth interviews and focus groups with young adolescents aged 10 to 15 years and employed three novel methods: Storytelling Using Graphic Illustration, My Life, and Photo Feedback Project. These methods helped provide a thorough understanding of the adolescents’ experiences and perspectives regarding their environment and future aspirations, which we translated into active components of the video game intervention. This article describes the processes we used and the valuable data we generated using these three engaging methods. These three activities are effective tools for eliciting meaningful data from young adolescents for the development of health interventions.
Perceived Injustice and School Violence
Authors: James Katie , Bunch Jackson , Clay-Warner Jody
Published: February 2014

We examine the effect of perceived school fairness on one’s likelihood of participating in school violence and how social support influences this relationship. General strain theory (GST) and procedural justice theory suggest that when students perceive unfairness in school rules or treatment from teachers, they will be more likely to participate in violence. GST proposes that the strength of these relationships may be reduced by social support. Data from the 2009 School Crime Supplement of the National Crime Victimization Survey show that students who perceive unfair treatment from teachers are more likely to bring a weapon to school and fight at school than are students who believe that their teachers are fair. Students who perceive that rules are unfair are more likely to bring a weapon to school than are students who believe rules are fair. Perceived support from adults at school reduces the impact of teacher/rule unfairness on school violence.
Corticospinal Tract Diffusion Abnormalities Early After Stroke Predict Motor Outcome
Authors: Groisser Benjamin N. , Copen William A. , Singhal Aneesh B. , Hirai Kelsi K. , Schaechter Judith D.
Published: February 2014

Background. Prognosis of long-term motor outcome of acute stroke patients with severe motor impairment is difficult to determine. Objective. Our primary goal was to evaluate the prognostic value of corticospinal tract (CST) injury on motor outcome of the upper limb compared with motor impairment level and lesion volume. Methods. In all, 10 acute stroke patients with moderately severe to severe motor impairment of the upper limb underwent diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and testing of upper limb strength and dexterity at acute, subacute, and chronic poststroke time points. A density-weighted CST atlas was constructed using DTI tractography data from normal participants. This CST atlas was applied, using a largely automated process, to DTI data from patients to quantify CST injury at each time point. Differences in axial diffusivity (AD), radial diffusivity (RD), and fractional anisotropy (FA) of the ipsilesional CST relative to the contralesional CST were measured. Results. Acute loss in CST AD correlated most strongly and significantly with subacute and chronic strength and dexterity and remained significant after adjusting for acute motor impairment or lesion volume. Subacute loss in CST FA correlated most strongly with chronic dexterity, whereas subacute behavioral measures of limb strength correlated most strongly with chronic strength measures. Conclusions. Loss in acute CST AD and subacute CST FA are strong prognostic indicators of future motor functions of the upper limb for stroke patients with substantial initial motor impairment. DTI-derived measure of CST injury early after stroke may have utility in health care planning and in design of acute stroke clinical trials.
The optimal initial configuration of silicon-functionalized graphene for lithium-ion battery anode
Authors: Hui Zhixin , He Pengfei , Dai Ying , Wu Aihui
Published: February 2014

Silicon-functionalized graphene in its initial configuration, as anode materials for lithium-ion battery, will directly affect the battery’s reversible capacity, charge and discharge rate and service life. To present its optimal initial configuration, the relaxation and stretching properties of silicon-functionalized graphene were studied using molecular dynamics simulation with the Tersoff potential, the Lennard–Jones potential and the velocity Verlet time-stepping algorithm. In this study, many models of silicon-functionalized graphene with different arrangement of silicon atoms, different Si/C ratios, different vacancy defect ratios, different tension rates and different temperatures were primarily developed respectively to simulate the influence of different configurations on the volume, potential energy, elastic modulus, tensile strain, strength and other properties of the model, and we found that (1) the model with random arrangement of silicon atoms possessed biggest system potential energy, biggest volume and highest mechanics property among all models. (2) With the increasing amount of silicon atoms, the wavy corrugations and the peak became clearer, the potential energy decreased and volume increased. The model with Si/C ratio of 3.28% possessed highest mechanics property. (3) With the increasing vacancy, the system’s potential energy increased and volume decreased. The model with a vacancy defect ratio of 1% possessed highest mechanics property parameters. (4) Mechanics properties were the highest at the temperature of 300 K.
Do ward and department managers know their responsibilities in relation to the management of sharps, and is this reflected in the way that they practise sharps management?
Authors: Powell Sheena
Published: February 2014

Needlestick injuries (NSIs) involving hollowbore needles are the most commonly reported occupational exposure within the healthcare sector in the United Kingdom (HPA, 2012). It is estimated that at least 100,000 NSIs occur each year but due to under-reporting the figure may be much higher (RCN, 2008).

Many strategies aimed at preventing NSIs have been implemented in the healthcare environment, including administrative controls, safer work practices and engineering controls, but despite these measures NSIs remain a serious health and safety threat (EU, 2010).

New legislation has now been introduced as part of EU Directive 2010/32/EU, which requires UK and all EU member states to bring into force regulations, laws and administrative provisions to further protect healthcare workers from sustaining NSIs (EU Directive, 2010). The aim of this study was to determine the degree of responsibility that NHS ward/department managers felt they have in relation to the prevention and management of NSIs and if this was reflected in the way that they carry out relevant practices in their clinical environment. The study also aimed to identify factors which might impact on the ward/department managers’ ability to manage sharps effectively.

The study found that although ward/department managers did acknowledge a high degree of responsibility overall for the prevention and management of NSIs, there were some concerns highlighted in relation to certain practices. These included not ensuring that all staff had received up to date training on the safe use and disposal of sharps and not disseminating information on NSI incidences and outcomes to staff in their clinical areas.

The findings of this study have the potential to inform and enhance future training and education schedules that relate to NSI prevention and management and to improve the corporate strategic commitment to reducing NSIs across healthcare organisations.
Implementing a ward accreditation programme to drive improvements in infection prevention
Authors: Jones Graeme , Brooks Julie , Garton Tracy , Aplin Stephen
Published: February 2014

University Hospitals Southampton NHS Foundation Trust aspires to be a national leader in the reduction of healthcare associated infections (HCAIs). The need to further improve patient safety requires continual improvements in infection control practice in order to sustain high quality and safe patient care. To help achieve this, an infection prevention ward accreditation scheme was introduced across the trust in 2009. The accreditation scheme was initially based on the results of clinical wards’/areas’ infection prevention audits, aiming to motivate wards to achieve success and support areas to identify and address gaps in compliance. The ward accreditation scheme acts as a certification of best practice and policy compliance related to reducing HCAIs. Since its introduction four years ago, the ward accreditation programme has been expanded and developed to incorporate other elements of infection prevention policy and practice and continues to be developed in order to drive the trust forward as leaders in infection prevention. The introduction and ongoing development of the accreditation scheme has encouraged healthy competition, aiding local ownership and driving forward improvements, and with this, the trust has significantly reduced infection rates over the last four years.
Identification and control of a gentamicin resistant, meticillin susceptible Staphylococcus aureus outbreak on a neonatal unit
Authors: Otter Jonathan A , Davies Bethany , Menson Esse , Klein John L , Watts Timothy L , Kearns Angela M , Pichon Bruno , Edgeworth Jonathan D , French Gary L
Published: February 2014

We describe the identification and control of an outbreak of gentamicin resistant, meticillin susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (GR-MSSA) on a 36-bed neonatal unit (NNU) in London. Control measures included admission and weekly screening for GR-MSSA, cohorting affected babies, environmental and staff screening, hydrogen peroxide vapour (HPV) for terminal disinfection of cohort rooms, and reinforcement of hand hygiene. Seventeen babies were affected by the outbreak strain over ten months; seven were infected and ten were asymptomatic carriers. The outbreak strain was gentamicin resistant and all isolates were indistinguishable by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis. The outbreak strains spread rapidly and were associated with a high rate of bacteraemia (35% of 17 affected patients had bacteraemia vs. 10% of 284 patients with MSSA prior to the outbreak, p=0.007). None of 113 staff members tested were colonised with GR-MSSA. GR-MSSA was recovered from 11.5% of 87 environmental surfaces in cohort rooms, 7.1% of 28 communal surfaces and 4.1% of 74 surfaces after conventional terminal disinfection. None of 64 surfaces sampled after HPV decontamination yielded GR-MSSA. Recovery of GR-MSSA from two high level sites suggested that the organism could have been transmitted via air. Occasional breakdown in hand hygiene compliance and contaminated environmental surfaces probably contributed to transmission.
Drivers of Customer Relationships in Quick-Service Restaurants
Authors: Swimberghe Krist R. , Wooldridge Barbara Ross
Published: February 2014

Quick-service restaurants (QSRs) face a particular challenge in creating customer relationships, given low levels of consumer brand loyalty and a standardized product that makes it difficult to developing a distinctive identity. One way that quick-service firms attempt to set themselves apart is through genuine, long-term corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts, in addition to the quality of their food, service, and overall restaurant environment. This article explores the extent to which customers’ perceptions of Chick-fil-A’s food, service, environment, and CSR affect the three dimensions of their relationship quality with that firm—namely, satisfaction, trust, and identification, based on convenience survey of 483 of the firm’s customers. With regard to the elements of a customer relationship, the analysis found that (1) awareness of CSR programs did not improve customer satisfaction but did boost identification and trust, (2) service quality supported trust and satisfaction but does not influence customers’ identification with the firm, and (3) food quality affects customer satisfaction but has no connection with trust or identification with the firm. Finally, customer satisfaction and trust were related to customer loyalty, but identification with the company was not connected with loyalty. These findings suggest that increasing customer satisfaction levels (or any short-term goal) should not be the primary objective of CSR programs in the QSR industry. Instead, it appears that CSR initiatives should involve a genuine long-term effort to build customers’ trust and identification.
The Recognition and Evaluation of Patterns of Compensatory Injury in Patients With Mechanical Hip Pain
Authors: Hammoud Sommer , Bedi Asheesh , Voos James E. , Mauro Craig S. , Kelly Bryan T.
Published: February 2014

Context:

In active individuals with femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), the resultant reduction in functional range of motion leads to high impaction loads at terminal ranges. These increased forces result in compensatory effects on bony and soft tissue structures within the hip joint and hemipelvis. An algorithm is useful in evaluating athletes with pre-arthritic, mechanical hip pain and associated compensatory disorders.

Evidence Acquisition:

A literature search was performed by a review of PubMed articles published from 1976 to 2013.

Level of Evidence:

Level 4.

Results:

Increased stresses across the bony hemipelvis result when athletes with FAI attempt to achieve supraphysiologic, terminal ranges of motion (ROM) through the hip joint required for athletic competition. This can manifest as pain within the pubic joint (osteitis pubis), sacroiliac joint, and lumbosacral spine. Subclinical posterior hip instability may result when attempts to increase hip flexion and internal rotation are not compensated for by increased motion through the hemipelvis. Prominence of the anterior inferior iliac spine (AIIS) at the level of the acetabular rim can result in impingement of the anterior hip joint capsule or iliocapsularis muscle origin against the femoral head-neck junction, resulting in a distinct form of mechanical hip impingement (AIIS subspine impingement). Iliopsoas impingement (IPI) has also been described as an etiology for anterior hip pain. IPI results in a typical 3-o’clock labral tear as well as an inflamed capsule in close proximity to the overlying iliopsoas tendon. Injury in athletic pubalgia occurs during high-energy twisting activities in which abnormal hip ROM and resultant pelvic motion lead to shearing across the pubic symphysis.

Conclusion:

Failure to recognize and address concomitant compensatory injury patterns associated with intra-articular hip pathology can result in significant disability and persistent symptoms in athletes with pre-arthritic, mechanical hip pain.

Strength-of-Recommendation Taxonomy (SORT):

B
In Search of Sociological Congruence
Authors: Read Jen’nan Ghazal
Published: February 2014

In this article, I explore how the fragmented and specialized character of sociology has resulted in the search for overly simplistic causal processes or “congruence.” The core argument focuses less on the structure of the discipline, per se, and more on some of the problems that have arisen as a consequence of it. To these ends, I identify three problems endemic to an increasing portion of sociological work: (1) a disjuncture between theory and evidence, (2) critical versus creative interpretations, and (3) methodological overspecialization. I go further and conclude by suggesting viable intellectual and analytic pathways that allow for and encourage recognition of complexity in the social world.
The Relational Generation of Workplace Inequalities
Authors: Tomaskovic-Devey Donald
Published: February 2014

In this article, I outline a dynamic, relational theory of workplace inequalities. I begin with the basic model offered by Charles Tilly in Durable Inequality that categorical distinctions, such as gender or education, are mapped, exaggerated, and naturalized within organizational divisions of labor. This argument is attractive in the generality and simplicity of its causal account, yet fairly weak in specifying (1) core organizational processes, (2) the micro-foundations and interactions that generate inequalities, and (3) the potential of intersectional dynamics to disrupt the durability of categorical inequalities. I offer an integrated interactional-organizational-institutional perspective on the relational processes that generate inequalities.
The Political Meanings of Social Class Inequality
Authors: McCall Leslie
Published: February 2014

Research on a wide range of topics related to rising economic inequality is flourishing throughout the social sciences. One topic that is gaining fresh attention is the politics of inequality. We know very little, however, about how Americans define and perceive inequality or how they express and enact their political desires for more or less of it. In the absence of such knowledge, and under the influence of powerful theoretical models that depict how Americans ought to respond politically to rising inequality (but appear not to be), we are apt to resort to common sense notions of American indifference. This article examines the record of new empirical research on this subject to determine whether such notions are justified. Drawing from and building on this research, I then offer a methodological and theoretical framework for future studies of the political meanings of social class inequality.
Adult Learner Perceptions
Authors: Bugos Jennifer A.
Published: February 2014

The purpose of this project was to examine adult learning perceptions of a model music program with group piano instruction and group percussion ensemble for beginning-level musicians (ages 60–86 years). Participants were matched by age and education to two 16-week music programs. Forty participants completed a post-training questionnaire related to learning experiences and preferences. Results indicate that program strengths include course offerings containing musical performance and music theory, emphasis on developing social networks, and expertise of the instructor. Older adults prefer group music instruction compared with individual music instruction. These results have implications for developing model music programs that meet the needs of all learners and for music educators developing community music programs to address the preferences and needs of a growing aging population.
Contribution of mammary epithelial cells to the immune response during early stages of a bacterial infection to Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Brenaut Pauline , Lefèvre Lucas , Rau Andrea , Laloë Denis , Pisoni Giuliano , Moroni Paolo , Bevilacqua Claudia , Martin Patrice
Published: February 2014

To differentiate between the contribution of mammary epithelial cells (MEC) and infiltrating immune cells to gene expression profiles of mammary tissue during early stage mastitis, we investigated in goats the in vivo transcriptional response of MEC to an experimental intra mammary infection (IMI) withStaphylococcus aureus, using a non-invasive RNA sampling method from milk fat globules (MFG). Microarrays were used to record gene expression patterns during the first 24 hours post-infection (hpi). This approach was combined with laser capture microdissection of MEC from frozen slides of mammary tissue to analyze some relevant genes at 30 hpi. During the early stages post-inoculation, MEC play an important role in the recruitment and activation of inflammatory cells through the IL-8 signalling pathway and initiate a sharp induction of innate immune genes predominantly associated with the pro-inflammatory response. At 30 hpi, MEC express genes encoding different acute phase proteins, including SAA3, SERPINA1 and PTX3 and factors, such as S100A12, that contribute directly to fighting the infection. No significant change in the expression of genes encoding caseins was observed until 24 hpi, thus validating our experimental model to study early stages of infection before the occurrence of tissue damage, since the milk synthesis function is still operative. This is to our knowledge the first report showing in vivo, in goats, how MEC orchestrate the innate immune response to an IMI challenge withS. aureus. Moreover, the non-invasive sampling method of mammary representative RNA from MFG provides a valuable tool to easily follow the dynamics of gene expression in MEC to search for sensitive biomarkers in milk for early detection of mastitis and therefore, to successfully improve the treatment and thus animal welfare.
Myosins 1 and 6, myosin light chain kinase, actin and microtubules cooperate during antibody-mediated internalisation and trafficking of membrane-expressed viral antigens in feline infectious peritonitis virus infected monocytes
Authors: Dewerchin Hannah L , Desmarets Lowiese M , Noppe Ytse , Nauwynck Hans J
Published: February 2014

Monocytes infected with feline infectious peritonitis virus, a coronavirus, express viral proteins in their plasma membranes. Upon binding of antibodies, these proteins are quickly internalised through a new clathrin- and caveolae-independent internalisation pathway. By doing so, the infected monocytes can escape antibody-dependent cell lysis. In the present study, we investigated which kinases and cytoskeletal proteins are of importance during internalisation and subsequent intracellular transport. The experiments showed that myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) and myosin 1 are crucial for the initiation of the internalisation. With co-localisation stainings, it was found that MLCK and myosin 1 co-localise with antigens even before internalisation started. Myosin 6 co-localised with the internalising complexes during passage through the cortical actin, were it might play a role in moving or disintegrating actin filaments, to overcome the actin barrier. One minute after internalisation started, vesicles had passed the cortical actin, co-localised with microtubules and association with myosin 6 was lost. The vesicles were further transported over the microtubules and accumulated at the microtubule organising centre after 10 to 30 min. Intracellular trafficking over microtubules was mediated by MLCK, myosin 1 and a small actin tail. Since inhibiting MLCK with ML-7 was so efficient in blocking the internalisation pathway, this target can be used for the development of a new treatment for FIPV.
MiR-200a inhibits epithelial-mesenchymal transition of pancreatic cancer stem cell
Authors: Lu Yuhua , Lu Jingjing , Li Xiaohong , Zhu Hui , Fan Xiangjun , Zhu Shajun , Wang Yao , Guo Qingsong , Wang Lei , Huang Yan , Zhu Mingyan , Wang Zhiwei
Published: February 2014

Background

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive cancers, and the aggressiveness of pancreatic cancer is in part due to its intrinsic and extrinsic drug resistance characteristics, which are also associated with the acquisition of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Increasing evidence suggests that EMT-type cells share many biological characteristics with cancer stem-like cells. And miR-200 has been identified as a powerful regulator of EMT.

Methods

Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs) of human pancreatic cancer cell line PANC-1 were processed for CD24, CD44 and ESA multi-colorstaining, and sorted out on a BD FACS Aria II machine. RT-qPCR was performed using the miScript PCR Kit to assay the expression of miR-200 family. In order to find the role of miR-200a in the process of EMT, miR-200a mimic was transfected to CSCs.

Results

Pancreatic cancer cells with EMT phenotype displayed stem-like cell features characterized by the expression of cell surface markers CD24, CD44 and epithelial-specific antigen (ESA), which was associated with decreased expression of miR-200a. Moreover, overexpression of miR-200a was resulted in down-regulation of N-cadherin, ZEB1 and vimentin, but up-regulation of E-cadherin. In addition, miR-200a overexpression inhibited cell migration and invasion in CSCs.

Conclusion

In our study, we found that miR-200a played an important role in linking the characteristics of cancer stem-like cells with EMT-like cell signatures in pancreatic cancer. Selective elimination of cancer stem-like cells by reversing the EMT phenotype to mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition (MET) phenotype using novel agents would be useful for prevention and/or treatment of pancreatic cancer.
Cancer risk to First Nations’ people from exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons near in-situ bitumen extraction in Cold Lake, Alberta
Authors: Irvine Graham M , Blais Jules M , Doyle James R , Kimpe Linda E , White Paul A
Published: February 2014

Background

The Alberta oil sands are an important economic resource in Canada, but there is growing concern over the environmental and health effects as a result of contaminant releases and exposures. Recent studies have shown a temporal and spatial trend of increased polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) concentrations in sediments and snowpack near the Athabasca oil sands operations (i.e., open pit mines), but thus far similar studies have not been done for the Cold Lake region where steam assisted gravity drainage (in situ) extraction is performed.

Methods

Many PAHs are known mutagenic carcinogens, and this study measured soil and atmospheric concentrations of PAHs in the Cold Lake region to assess the excess lifetime cancer risk posed to the First Nations’ inhabitants of the region. Using both deterministic and probabilistic risk assessment methods, excess lifetime cancer risks were calculated for exposures from inhalation or inadvertent soil ingestion.

Results

The mean excess cancer risk for First Nations’ people through ingestion who engage in traditional wilderness activities in the Cold Lake region was 0.02 new cases per 100,000 with an upper 95% risk level of 0.07 cases per 100,000. Exposure to PAHs via inhalation revealed a maximum excess lifetime cancer risk of less than 0.1 cases per 100,000.

Conclusions

Excess lifetime risk values below 1 case per 100,000 is generally considered negligible, thus our analyses did not demonstrate any significant increases in cancer risks associated with PAH exposures for First Nations people inhabiting the Cold Lake region.
Spontaneous bladder rupture diagnosis based on urinary appearance of mesothelial cells: a case report
Authors: Hayashi Waka , Nishino Tomoya , Namie Satoru , Obata Yoko , Furukawa Masataka , Kohno Shigeru
Published: February 2014

Introduction

Spontaneous bladder rupture is an extremely rare clinical event that is associated with urinary ascites and apparent acute renal failure. This event is difficult to diagnose clinically, even with advanced techniques such as computed tomography; however, the timely diagnosis of this condition is critical. Here, we report a case of a patient who experienced a spontaneous intraperitoneal bladder rupture 10 years after postoperative pelvic irradiation for the treatment of uterine cancer. In this report of a rare case, we describe the contribution of the appearance of mesothelial cells in the urine to the diagnosis of this condition.

Case presentation

Our patient was a 71-year-old Asian woman who experienced lower abdominal pain and vomiting of two days duration. On admission, abdominal computed tomography showed intraperitoneal fluid collection and her blood tests revealed acute renal failure and hyperkalemia. She underwent hemodialysis and a transurethral catheter was inserted. The transurethral catheter was removed three days after her admission. Four days after the catheter removal, her symptoms recurred and her serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels were elevated. We noted the presence of mesothelial cells in her urine, which led to a diagnosis of intraperitoneal bladder rupture. She underwent surgical repair of her bladder and hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and was discharged after her renal function returned to normal.

Conclusion

Urine analysis is a simple and non-invasive test and we believe that a thorough urine analysis may contribute to the early diagnosis of an intraperitoneal bladder rupture. We think that the findings presented in this case report will significantly enhance our understanding of the etiology of bladder rupture. Moreover, these case findings may help nephrologists and urologists to rapidly diagnose this condition.
Concentrations of osmotically related constituents in plasma and urine of finless porpoise (Neophocaena asiaeorientalis): implications for osmoregulatory strategies for marine mammals living in freshwater
Authors: Guo Aihuan , Hao Yujiang , Wang Jingzhen , Zhao Qingzhong , Wang Ding
Published: February 2014

Background

Most cetaceans inhabit the hyperosmotic marine environment with only a few species living in freshwater habitats. The Yangtze finless porpoise (Neophocaena asiaeorientalis asiaeorientalis) is the only freshwater subspecies of the genus. Our aim was to study whether the osmoregulation mechanism of the Yangtze finless porpoise is different from the marine subspecies, the East Asian finless porpoise (Neophocaena asiaeorientalis sunameri). We assayed and compared the concentrations of the constituents involved in osmoregulation in the blood and urine in the Yangtze finless porpoise and the East Asian finless porpoise. We also compared the corresponding urine constituents of the porpoises with existing data on fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) and bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus).

Results

The mean plasma osmolality of Yangtze finless porpoise was significantly lower than that of the marine subspecies (P < 0.01). Similarly, the urine osmolality of Yangtze finless porpoise was also significantly lower than that of its marine counterpart (P < 0.05). However, the urine sodium concentration of freshwater finless porpoise was significantly lower than that in the marine subspecies (P < 0.01), even though their serum sodium has no significant difference. Moreover, the freshwater porpoise has significantly lower urine urea concentration but much higher serum urea than in the marine finless porpoise (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

These results suggest that the freshwater finless porpoise does have different osmoregulatory mechanism from marine cetaceans. Conserving sodium by excreting urine with low ion levels may be an essential strategy to maintain the serum electrolyte balance for the freshwater subspecies that also appears to be more susceptible to hyponatremia.
Molecular (PCR-DGGE) versus morphological approach: analysis of taxonomic composition of potentially toxic cyanobacteria in freshwater lakes
Authors: Bukowska Aleksandra , Bielczyńska Aleksandra , Karnkowska Anna , Chróst Ryszard J , Jasser Iwona
Published: February 2014

Background

The microscopic Utermöhl method is commonly used for the recognition of the presence and taxonomic composition of potentially toxic cyanobacteria and is especially useful for monitoring reservoirs used as drinking water, recreation and fishery resources. However, this method is time-consuming and does not allow potentially toxic and nontoxic cyanobacterial strains to be distinguished. We have developed a method based on denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) of the marker gene ITS and the mcy-gene cluster, and DNA sequencing. We have attempted to calibrate the DGGE-method with a microscopic procedure, using water samples taken in 2011 from four lakes of the Great Mazurian Lakes system.

Results

Results showed that the classic microscopic method was much more precise and allowed the classification of the majority of cyanobacterial taxa to the species or genus. Using the molecular approach, most of the sequences could only be assigned to a genus or family. The results of DGGE and microscopic analyses overlapped in the detection of the filamentous cyanobacteria. For coccoid cyanobacteria, we only found two taxa using the molecular method, which represented 17% of the total taxa identified using microscopic observations. The DGGE method allowed the identification of two genera of cyanobacteria (Planktothrix and Microcystis) in the studied samples, which have the potential ability to produce toxins from the microcystins group.

Conclusions

The results confirmed that the molecular approach is useful for the rapid detection and taxonomic distinction of potentially toxic cyanobacteria in lake-water samples, also in very diverse cyanobacterial communities. Such rapid detection is unattainable by other methods. However, with still limited nucleotide sequences deposited in the public databases, this method is currently not sufficient to evaluate the entire taxonomic composition of cyanobacteria in lakes.