bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interactive gaps and cause-effect-outcomes in processes and interfaces of teleological service encounters
Authors: Svensson Göran , Padin Carmen
Published: August 2016

Purpose

The study aims to describe the interactive gaps between service receiver learning curves and service provider adaptive curves, as well as the cause-effect-outcome in processes and interfaces of service encounters, through the perspective of teleological actions.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper includes a qualitative study based on non-probability sampling of informants (air passengers).

Findings

The empirical findings indicate interactive gaps in teleological service encounters and a cause-effect-outcome sequence in the associated processes and interfaces.

Research limitations/implications

The study provides knowledge on how to manage the interactive interface between a service provider and a service receiver and a foundation for enhancing complaint handling in service encounters after critical incidents have occurred.

Practical implications

Service providers need to balance their teleological actions in relation to the service receivers’ teleological actions when critical incidents occur.

Originality/value

The paper takes into account service receiver teleological learning curves in relation to service provider teleological adaptive curves in an interactive transformative service encounter (TSE)-model that provides multiple opportunities for further research.
Pedagogical reforms within a centralised-decentralised system
Authors: Toh Yancy , Hung Wei Loong David , Chua Paul Meng-Huat , He Sujin , Jamaludin Azilawati
Published: August 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to illustrate the dialectical interplay between centralisation and decentralisation forces so as to understand how schools leverage on its autonomous pedagogical space, influence the diffusion of innovations in the educational landscape of Singapore and how a centralised-decentralised system supports (or impedes) pedagogical reform for twenty-first century learning.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper first outlines the evolutionary stance of Singapore’s decentralisation from its past to present trajectories, thus providing a broader social-historical interpretation to its tight-loose-tight coupling of the education system; followed by situating the context of reform within the national narrative of Ministry of Education’s (MOE) twenty-first century competencies framework. The authors examine how school autonomy should be accompanied by systemic enabling mechanisms, through two case illustrations of whole-school reforms.

Findings

There are four carryover effects that the authors have observed: structural, socio-cultural, economic and epistemic. Middle managers from the two schools act as a pedagogical, socio-technological and financial broker outside the formal collaborative structures organised by the MOE. Such a “middle-out” approach, complemented by centralised mechanisms for “coeval sensing mechanism”, has resulted in boundary-spanning linkages and multiplier effects in terms of knowledge spillovers.

Research limitations/implications

Socio-cultural context matters; and what constitutes as co-learning between policymakers and practitioners in Singapore may be construed as policing that stifles innovations in other contexts.

Originality/value

In addition to the conceptualisation of how school autonomy may lead to school-based innovations, the paper provided some preliminary empirical evidence of how the co-production of knowledge has been engendered within, across and beyond individual Singapore schools through the mechanism of innovation diffusion. The unit of analysis is innovation ecosystem.
Climbing down the steps from the ivory tower: how UK academics and criminal justice practitioners need to work together on alcohol studies
Authors: Newbury-Birch Dorothy , McGeechan Grant J. , Holloway Aisha
Published: August 2016

Purpose

Evidence in the UK tells us that risky drinking is high amongst those in contact with the criminal justice system. The purpose of this paper is to explore the reasons why carrying out research around risky drinking in this setting is so difficult.

Design/methodology/approach

A commentary on the issues of carrying out research in the criminal justice setting.

Findings

There are issues of carrying out research in the criminal justice setting. The authors argue, that as academics we can be more proactive in working with practitioners in the design and carrying out of studies. By examining what the primary outcome of interest is to those that work in the field rather than what funding agencies tell us academics must use, academics may engage in a more co-productive way that enables everyone to achieve what they need. Moreover more work is needed to show how this approach can be achieved both in the UK and internationally.

Originality/value

This editorial explores some of the difficulties of carrying out alcohol research in the criminal justice system and postulates ways that this could be made easier.
Corporate social responsibility: the case of the telecommunications sector
Authors: Sutherland Ewan
Published: August 2016

Purpose

The paper aims to examine the reporting of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in the telecommunications sector and to consider how the obligations and regulations imposed on operators affect what is considered as CSR compared to other sectors.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides a review of the academic literature on CSR, relating this to developments in the regulatory state and the adoption by governments and intergovernmental bodies of CSR instruments. Also, the paper conducts an analysis of coltan, greenhouse gas emissions and privacy as short case studies where CSR issues and regulations meet.

Findings

Many activities that in other sectors would be considered CSR are required by licence or legislation, together with much more detailed scrutiny and reporting.

Originality/value

The paper provides a review of existing literature on CSR in telecommunications, related to theories about CSR and the regulatory state.
Use of AHP in decision-making for machine tool configurations
Authors: Farhan Uday Hameed , Tolouei-Rad Majid , Osseiran Adam
Published: August 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a model of analytic hierarchy process (AHP), a multiple criteria decision-making method, to assist selecting suitable machine configurations for special purpose machines (SPMs) from available alternatives.

Design/methodology/approach

The necessary criteria and sub-criteria were identified and used in the developed model. The assessment process was carried out by constructing the hierarchy of four levels. Then, pairwise comparison matrices were created for each level to compute the weights for the alternatives. The model was programmed and implemented by software for practical use.

Findings

Different scenarios were obtained from the assessment process of the developed AHP model showing the influence of changing the relevant importance of the elements in the hierarchy on the selection of SPMs configurations. Selection of the suitable scenario was also affected by some factors of manufacturing preferences and industry recommendations such as cost and production rate.

Originality/value

This is a new application of AHP method which assists decision makers to select suitable configurations for SPMs, and reduce the time required for designing SPMs.
Examining the link between service modularity and firm performance
Authors: Cheng Colin C.J. , Shiu Eric
Published: August 2016

Purpose

While service scholars have generally supported the idea that service modularity enhances firm performance, the literature offers very little evidence of the actual process through which service modularity continuously contributes to firm performance. The purpose of this paper is to examine the link from a capability perspective: service modularity capabilities-service modularity-new service advantage-firm performance, as well as the moderating role of radical innovation capability in the effect of service modularity on new service advantage.

Design/methodology/approach

To examine this link, data were collected from a cross-industry survey of 231 leading service firms. Structural equation modeling and hierarchical moderated regression analyses were employed to test the model.

Findings

Analyses reveal that new service advantage mediates the service modularity-firm performance relationship. Moreover, service modularity capabilities act in an important antecedent role to configure service modularity. Among the findings, it is worth emphasizing that radical innovation capability not only strengthens the positive effect of, but also alleviates the negative effect of, service modularity on new service advantage.

Originality/value

This study provides a more complete understanding of how service modularity enhances firm performance by discovering the hidden role of new service advantage that bridges service modularity and firm performance, clarifying the role of service modularity capabilities in configuring service modularity, and confirming the important role of radical innovation capability in sustaining the effectiveness of service modularity.
Prompting additional purchases while providing service: does it offend the customer?
Authors: Ku Hsuan-Hsuan , Huang Chih-Yun
Published: August 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate consumers’ responses to unsolicited cross-selling of supplementary paid-for services made during delivery of a core service, and the contextual and personal variables moderating those responses.

Design/methodology/approach

Three formal experiments test the effect on participants’ responses of the perceived relevance of the supplementary service to the core service, personal psychological reactance, in the case of a high-relevance supplementary service, and self-monitoring, in scenarios in which a low-relevance supplementary service is proposed either in public or privately.

Findings

The experiments found that participants’ satisfaction ratings were reduced in response to cross-selling of a supplementary service that was of low relevance to the core service, and that satisfaction ratings if it was perceived to be of high relevance compared were not reduced despite the unsolicited attempt at cross-selling. However, the non-negative response to a high-relevance offer was limited to participants with a lower tendency to reactance. Furthermore, a high predisposition to self-monitoring evoked more positive judgments if a low-relevance supplementary service was proposed in public rather than privately. That of low self-monitors was no different in either case.

Originality/value

This paper examines the trade-off faced by a service provider between customer satisfaction and extra revenue from supplementary services, and explores conditions under which a provider can propose unsolicited supplementary services without offending customers.
Methadone maintenance dose/weight ratio, long QTc, and EKG screening
Authors: Westermeyer Joseph , Adabag Selcuk , Anand Vidhu , Thuras Paul , Yoon Gihyun , Batres‐y‐Carr Tegan
Published: August 2016

Background and Objectives

Electrocardiogram (EKG) monitoring during methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) has been recommended to prevent potentially fatal prolonged computed QT intervals (QTc). However, risk indicators for obtaining EKGs do not exist. This study assessed 23 variables that might help identify prolonged QTc during MMT.

Methods

EKGs concurrent with methadone serum levels were obtained from 69 veterans during a 5‐year study, encompassing 302.8 person‐years. Two cardiologists hand‐measured QT intervals, selecting each patient's longest QTc. QTc categories included: normal duration <440 ms; borderline duration of 440–469 ms; and abnormal duration ≥470 ms. QTc's were compared with seven methadone parameters and 16 bio‐psycho‐social variables using two QTc cut‐offs (440 and 470 ms).

Results

Among the 69 patients, 19 had normal QTc's, 28 had borderline QTc's, and 22 had abnormal QTc's. Methadone dose/weight was moderately correlated with QTc, and independently associated with longer QTc at both 440 and 470 cut‐offs.

Discussion and Conclusion

Dose/weight ≥.49 is useful for screening EKGs for QTc's ≥440 cut‐off. Dose/weight ≥.65 produces high‐yield abnormal QTc's ≥470 cut‐off.

Scientific Significance

Methadone dose/weight provides moderately reliable thresholds for making routine screening decisions and urgent clinical decisions to obtain an EKG for prolonged QTc. (Am J Addict 2016;25:499–507).
Direct Inhibitory Effects of Carbon Monoxide on Six Venoms Containing Fibrinogenolytic Metalloproteinases
Authors: Nielsen Vance G. , Losada Philip A.
Published: August 2016

Since the introduction of antivenom administration over a century ago to treat venomous snake bite, it has been the most effective therapy for saving life and limb. However, this treatment is not always effective and not without potential life‐threatening side effects. We tested a new paradigm to abrogate the plasmatic anticoagulant effects of fibrinogenolytic snake venom metalloproteinases (SVMP) by inhibiting these Zn+2‐dependent enzymes directly with carbon monoxide (CO) exposure. Assessment of the fibrinogenolytic effects of venoms collected from the Arizona black rattlesnake, Northern Pacific rattlesnake, Western cottonmouth, Eastern cottonmouth, Broad‐banded copperhead and Southern copperhead on human plasmatic coagulation kinetics was performed with thrombelastography in vitro. Isolated exposure of all but one venom (Southern copperhead) to CO significantly decreased the ability of the venoms to compromise coagulation. These results demonstrated that direct inhibition of transition metal‐containing venom enzymes by yet to be elucidated mechanisms (e.g. CO, binding to Zn+2 or displacing Zn+2 from the catalytic site, CO binding to histidine residues) can in many instances significantly decrease fibrinogenolytic activity. This new paradigm of CO‐based inhibition of the anticoagulant effects of SVMP could potentially diminish haemostatic compromise in envenomed patients until antivenom can be administered.
Three‐dimensional cell culture model utilization in cancer stem cell research
Authors: Bielecka Zofia F. , Maliszewska‐Olejniczak Kamila , Safir Ilan J. , Szczylik Cezary , Czarnecka Anna M.
Published: August 2016

Three‐dimensional (3D) cell culture models are becoming increasingly popular in contemporary cancer research and drug resistance studies. Recently, scientists have begun incorporating cancer stem cells (CSCs) into 3D models and modifying culture components in order to mimic in vivo conditions better. Currently, the global cell culture market is primarily focused on either 3D cancer cell cultures or stem cell cultures, with less focus on CSCs. This is evident in the low product availability officially indicated for 3D CSC model research. This review discusses the currently available commercial products for CSC 3D culture model research. Additionally, we discuss different culture media and components that result in higher levels of stem cell subpopulations while better recreating the tumor microenvironment. In summary, although progress has been made applying 3D technology to CSC research, this technology could be further utilized and a greater number of 3D kits dedicated specifically to CSCs should be implemented.
CD8+ mycosis fungoides clinically masquerading as alopecia areata
Authors: Amin Sapna M , Tan Timothy , Guitart Joan , Colavincenzo Maria , Gerami Pedram , Yazdan Pedram
Published: August 2016

A 33‐year‐old female with a 7‐year history of CD8‐positive hypopigmented mycosis fungoides (MF) involving the trunk and extremities presented with a large well‐defined alopecic patch on her frontal scalp. Clinically, this area resembled alopecia areata (AA) and was without hypopigmentation or erythema. A scalp biopsy revealed a non‐scarring inflammatory alopecia and a superficial band‐like atypical lymphoid infiltrate with prominent epidermotropism. Atypical, predominately CD8‐positive lymphocytes were seen surrounding and infiltrating the bulb portion of several hair follicles. Treatments for her MF lesions have included topical bexarotene, topical corticosteroids and phototherapy. Her alopecia has been treated with high potency topical corticosteroids and multiple intralesional triamcinolone injections with very minimal hair regrowth to date. Alopecia due to cutaneous lymphoma is an uncommon phenomenon but can occur in erythrodermic MF or Sezary syndrome. AA‐like changes have most often been reported in conventional patch/plaque stage MF and folliculotropic MF. In these cases, the atypical lymphoid infiltrate is comprised predominately of CD4‐positive lymphocytes. This is a rare report of a CD8‐positive MF causing AA‐like changes. This case highlights the importance of a scalp biopsy in patients with a history of cutaneous lymphoma presenting with alopecia in order to evaluate the nature of their hair loss.
Association between glycaemic control and common infections in people with Type 2 diabetes: a cohort study
Authors: Hine J. L. , de Lusignan S. , Burleigh D. , Pathirannehelage S. , McGovern A. , Gatenby P. , Jones S. , Jiang D. , Williams J. , Elliot A. J. , Smith G. E. , Brownrigg J. , Hinchliffe R. , Munro N.
Published: August 2016

Aim

To investigate the impact of glycaemic control on infection incidence in people with Type 2 diabetes.

Methods

We compared infection rates during 2014 in people with Type 2 diabetes and people without diabetes in a large primary care cohort in the UK (the Royal College of General Practitioners Research and Surveillance Centre database). We performed multilevel logistic regression to investigate the impact of Type 2 diabetes on presentation with infection, and the effect of glycaemic control on presentation with upper respiratory tract infections, bronchitis, influenza‐like illness, pneumonia, intestinal infectious diseases, herpes simplex, skin and soft tissue infections, urinary tract infections, and genital and perineal infections. People with Type 2 diabetes were stratified by good [HbA1c < 53 mmol/mol (< 7%)], moderate [HbA1c 53–69 mmol/mol (7–8.5%)] and poor [HbA1c > 69 mmol/mol (> 8.5%)] glycaemic control using their most recent HbA1c concentration. Infection incidence was adjusted for important sociodemographic factors and patient comorbidities.

Results

We identified 34 278 people with Type 2 diabetes and 613 052 people without diabetes for comparison. The incidence of infections was higher in people with Type 2 diabetes for all infections except herpes simplex. Worsening glycaemic control was associated with increased incidence of bronchitis, pneumonia, skin and soft tissue infections, urinary tract infections, and genital and perineal infections, but not with upper respiratory tract infections, influenza‐like illness, intestinal infectious diseases or herpes simplex.

Conclusions

Almost all infections analysed were more common in people with Type 2 diabetes. Infections that are most commonly of bacterial, fungal or yeast origin were more frequent in people with worse glycaemic control.
Isolated rheumatic severe tricuspid regurgitation
Authors: Vupputuri Anjith , Vijan Vikrant , Prabhu Mukund A. , Thachathodiyl Rajesh , Chandrasekharan Nair Rajiv
Published: August 2016

Severe isolated tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is very rare, with most cases of TR being functional and secondary to pulmonary hypertension from left heart pathologies. We report an unusual case of a young Nigerian male, who presented to us with dyspnea, repeated hospital admissions for heart failure, and a childhood history of rheumatic fever. Echocardiogram showed massively dilated right atrium and ventricle, noncoaptation of thickened tricuspid valve with torrential free tricuspid regurgitation. Other valves were normal. Cardiac MRI showed normal right ventricular function and viability. Patient underwent tricuspid valve replacement with 35‐mm St. Jude valve.
Lesions of the dorsal striatum impair orienting behaviour of salamanders without affecting visual processing in the tectum
Authors: Ruhl Tim , Hanslian Sabrina , Dicke Ursula
Published: August 2016

In amphibians, visual information in the midbrain tectum is relayed via the thalamus to telencephalic centres. Lesions of the dorsal thalamus of the salamander Plethodon shermani result in impairment of orienting behaviour and in modulation of spike pattern of tectal neurons. These effects may be induced by an interruption of a tectum‐thalamus‐telencephalon‐tectum feedback loop enabling spatial attention and selection of visual objects. The striatum is a potential candidate for involvement in this pathway; accordingly, we investigated the effects of lesioning the dorsal striatum. Compared to controls and sham lesioned salamanders, striatum‐lesioned animals exhibited a significantly lower number of orienting responses toward one of two competing prey stimuli. Orienting towards stimuli was impaired, while the spike pattern of tectal cells was unaffected, because both in controls and striatum‐lesioned salamanders the spike number significantly decreased at presentation of one prey stimulus inside the excitatory receptive field and another one in the surround compared to that at single presentation inside the excitatory receptive field. We conclude that the dorsal striatum contributes to orienting behaviour, but not to an inhibitory feedback signal onto tectal neurons. The brain area engaged in the feedback loop during visual object discrimination and selection has yet to be identified. Information processing in the amphibian striatum includes multisensory integration; the striatum generates behavioural patterns that influence (pre)motor processing in the brainstem. This situation resembles the situation found in rats, in which the dorsolateral striatum is involved in stimulus‐response learning regardless of the sensory modality, as well as in habit formation.
PKCη deficiency improves lipid metabolism and atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E‐deficient mice
Authors: Torisu Kumiko , Zhang Xueli , Nonaka Mari , Kaji Takahide , Tsuchimoto Daisuke , Kajitani Kosuke , Sakumi Kunihiko , Torisu Takehiro , Chida Kazuhiro , Sueishi Katsuo , Kubo Michiaki , Hata Jun , Kitazono Takanari , Kiyohara Yutaka , Nakabeppu Yusaku
Published: August 2016

Genomewide association studies have shown that a nonsynonymous single nucleotide polymorphism in PRKCH is associated with cerebral infarction and atherosclerosis‐related complications. We examined the role of PKCη in lipid metabolism and atherosclerosis using apolipoprotein E‐deficient (Apoe−/−) mice. PKCη expression was augmented in the aortas of mice with atherosclerosis and exclusively detected in MOMA2‐positive macrophages within atherosclerotic lesions. Prkch+/+Apoe−/− and Prkch−/−Apoe−/− mice were fed a high‐fat diet (HFD), and the dyslipidemia observed in Prkch+/+Apoe−/− mice was improved in Prkch−/−Apoe−/− mice, with a particular reduction in serum LDL cholesterol and phospholipids. Liver steatosis, which developed in Prkch+/+Apoe−/− mice, was improved in Prkch−/−Apoe−/− mice, but glucose tolerance, adipose tissue and body weight, and blood pressure were unchanged. Consistent with improvements in LDL cholesterol, atherosclerotic lesions were decreased in HFD‐fed Prkch−/−Apoe−/− mice. Immunoreactivity against 3‐nitrotyrosine in atherosclerotic lesions was dramatically decreased in Prkch−/−Apoe−/− mice, accompanied by decreased necrosis and apoptosis in the lesions. ARG2 mRNA and protein levels were significantly increased in Prkch−/−Apoe−/− macrophages. These data show that PKCη deficiency improves dyslipidemia and reduces susceptibility to atherosclerosis in Apoe−/− mice, showing that PKCη plays a role in atherosclerosis development.
Implementing a routine flow cytometry assay for nucleated red blood cell counts in cord blood units
Authors: Simard C. , Cloutier M. , Jobin C. , Dion J. , Fournier D. , Néron S.
Published: August 2016

Introduction

As required by standards organizations, Héma‐Québec Cord Blood Bank performs enumeration of nucleated red blood cells (NRBCs) in cord blood units (CBUs). This study presents the validation and implementation approaches developed to transfer the routine NRBC enumeration from the manual blood film method to a flow cytometric assay.

Methods

The flow cytometry method was adapted from Tsuji (Cytometry, 37, 1999, 291). This assay was validated to assess the specificity, detection limit, repeatability, and reproducibility of the method, including interoperator and interlaboratory testing. Finally, postimplementation follow‐up and adjustments were performed for CBU over a 7‐month period.

Results

Blood film and flow cytometry NRBC enumerations showed a strong correlation (n = 40; Pearson's r correlation = 0.90). Validation was successful as exemplified by the correlation in interlaboratory testing (n = 30; r = 0.98). During implementation, our routine laboratory analyses revealed that CBU with low NRBC content (≤2%), representing 26% of all CBU tested, resulted in 15% of repeated reading and/or staining and was the principal source of nonconformity. Small adjustments in the standard operating procedures (SOPs), including a fixed 200‐event setting in the NRBC gate for the second reading of the replicates, have completely solved this issue.

Conclusion

Flow cytometric NRBC enumerations, now implemented in Héma‐Québec Public Cord Blood Bank, is an improvement in the efficiency of our operations by integrating the count for NRBC into our flow cytometry platform.
Gregarious aggregative behavior in the marine isopod Cirolana harfordi
Authors: Salma Umme , Thomson Murray
Published: August 2016

Gregarious huddling behavior where animals seek the close company of conspecifics is thought to have facilitated the evolutionary transition from sea to land in some species of isopods, the theory being that closely apposed bodies decrease surface area and reduce desiccation. In this study, specimens of the marine isopod Cirolana harfordi were investigated to determine whether they displayed gregarious aggregative behavior. Animals were placed in a 20‐cm‐diameter acrylic cylinder arena that contained two 5‐cm‐diameter circular acrylic shelters that were tinted red (to reduce light transmittance), one at either end of the arena. Specimens of C. harfordi chose one of the two identical shelters at random, and the majority of animals congregated under this winning shelter. When an arena with one shelter tinted red and one clear shelter was used, the majority of animals congregated under the red shelter. These data indicate that the aggregative behavior displayed by this marine isopod species is driven by gregarious, conspecific attraction as well as reactions to environmental heterogeneity and negative phototaxis. Gregarious behavior in this marine isopod may afford the species advantages other than avoiding desiccation.
Enhanced Field‐Induced Strain in the Textured Lead‐Free Ceramic
Authors: Zhao Yongjie , Zhang Xiaowen , Huang Rongxia , Chen Kepi , Wang Hui , Jin Haibo , Zhou Heping
Published: August 2016

Reactive template grain growth method was applied to prepare <001> grain oriented 0.94(Na0.52K0.48)NbO3–0.06LiNbO3 ceramics using plate‐like NaNbO3 particles as template. A two‐step sintering procedure was put forward to obtain textured ceramics with electromechanical coupling factor kp = 64%, piezoelectric constant d33 = 220 pC/N, and in practical application the value of available (converse piezoelectric constant) is about 516 pm/V, which are much higher than these of random form with same composition. Based on the analysis for the behavior of piezoelectricity against the measuring frequency and the intensity of external field, a possible mechanism considering the interaction between defect dipoles induced by the doping of Cu2+ and spontaneous polarization dipoles was proposed to elucidate the field‐induced giant strain in textured ceramics. This study does not only provide an insight to the origin and coupling effect of two kinds of dipole but also renders a general approach of defect engineering to take advantage of point defect in ceramics realizing certain function enhancement.
Omega 3/6 fatty acids for reading in children: a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial in 9‐year‐old mainstream schoolchildren in Sweden
Authors: Johnson Mats , Fransson Gunnar , Östlund Sven , Areskoug Björn , Gillberg Christopher
Published: August 2016

Background

Previous research has shown positive effects of Omega 3/6 fatty acids in children with inattention and reading difficulties. We aimed to investigate if Omega 3/6 improved reading ability in mainstream schoolchildren.

Methods

We performed a 3‐month parallel, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial followed by 3‐month active treatment for all subjects. Mainstream schoolchildren aged 9–10 years were randomized 1:1 to receive three Omega 3/6 capsules twice daily or identical placebo. Assessments were made at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. The primary outcome measure was the Logos test battery for evaluating reading abilities. The trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT02557477.

Results

The study enrolled 154 children (active n = 78; placebo n = 76), of whom 122 completed the first 3 months (active n = 64; placebo n = 58) and 105 completed the whole study (active/active n = 55; placebo/active n = 50). Outcomes were assessed by per protocol (PP) and intention‐to‐treat (ITT) analyses. Active treatment was superior to placebo at 3 months for improvement in phonologic decoding time (PP active/placebo difference −0.16; 95% CI −0.03, −0.29; effect size (ES) .44; p = .005; and ITT ES .37; p = .036), in visual analysis time (PP active/placebo difference −0.19; 95% CI −0.05, −0.33; ES .49; p = .013; and ITT ES .40; p = .01), and for boys in phonologic decoding time (PP −0.22; 95% CI −0.03, −0.41; ES .62; p = .004). Children with ADHD‐RS scores above the median showed treatment benefits in visual analysis time (PP ES .8, p = .009), reading speed per word (PP ES .61, p = .008), and phonologic decoding time per word (PP ES .85, p = .006). Adverse events were rare and mild, mainly stomach pain/diarrhea (active n = 9, placebo n = 2).

Conclusions

Compared with placebo, 3 months of Omega 3/6 treatment improved reading ability – specifically the clinically relevant ‘phonologic decoding time’ and ‘visual analysis time’ – in mainstream schoolchildren. In particular, children with attention problems showed treatment benefits.
Concurrent fatty liver increases risk of hepatocellular carcinoma among patients with chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Chan Anthony W H , Wong Grace L H , Chan Hoi‐Yun , Tong Joanna H M , Yu Yau‐Hei , Choi Paul C L , Chan Henry L Y , To Ka‐Fai , Wong Vincent W S
Published: August 2016

Background and Aims

Concurrent fatty liver in hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐infected patients without significant alcohol intake is a frequent and increasingly alarming problem because of the non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease pandemic. The risk of HBV‐related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development was increased by concomitant obesity and diabetes. Direct evidence of the hepatocarcinogenic effect of fatty liver in chronic HBV remains elusive. We aimed to evaluate the risk of concurrent histologically proven fatty liver in HBV hepatocarcinogenesis.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study on a liver biopsy cohort of HBV‐infected patients without significant alcohol intake to evaluate the prevalence of concurrent histologically proven fatty liver and its association with subsequent HCC development. We also examined nine polymorphisms on six non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease‐related candidate genes (ADIPOQ, APOC3, GCKR, LEPR, PNPLA3, and PPARG).

Results

Among 270 HBV‐infected patients, concurrent fatty liver was found in 107 patients (39.6%) and was associated with metabolic risks, cirrhosis (P = 0.016) and PNPLA3 rs738409 CG/GG genotype (P = 0.002). At a median follow‐up of 79.9 months, 11 patients (4.1%) developed HCC, and nine of them had concurrent fatty liver. By multivariable Cox analysis, concurrent fatty liver (HR 7.27, 95% confidence interval: 1.52–34.76; P = 0.013), age, cirrhosis, and APOC3 rs2854116 TC/CC genotype (HR 3.93, 95% confidence interval: 1.30–11.84; P = 0.013) were independent factors predicting HCC development.

Conclusions

Concurrent fatty liver is common in HBV‐infected patients and an independent risk factor potentiating HBV‐associated HCC development by 7.3‐fold. The risk of HBV‐related HCC is increased by APOC3 gene polymorphism, and further characterization is required by its role.
Analysis of FIB‐induced damage by electron channelling contrast imaging in the SEM
Authors: GUTIERREZ‐URRUTIA IVAN
Published: August 2016

We have investigated the Ga+ ion‐damage effect induced by focused ion beam (FIB) milling in a [001] single crystal of a 316 L stainless steel by the electron channelling contrast imaging (ECCI) technique. The influence of FIB milling on the characteristic electron channelling contrast of surface dislocations was analysed. The ECCI approach provides sound estimation of the damage depth produced by FIB milling. For comparison purposes, we have also studied the same milled surface by a conventional electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) approach. We observe that the ECCI approach provides further insight into the Ga+ ion‐damage phenomenon than the EBSD technique by direct imaging of FIB artefacts in the scanning electron microscope. We envisage that the ECCI technique may be a convenient tool to optimize the FIB milling settings in applications where the surface crystal defect content is relevant.
The Asymptotic Distribution of The Pathwise Mean Squared Displacement in Single Particle Tracking Experiments
Authors: Didier Gustavo , Zhang Kui
Published: August 2016

Microrheology is the study of the properties of biological complex fluids through the anomalous diffusion of small embedded particles. The main statistic for characterizing anomalous diffusion is the so‐named mean squared displacement (MSD) of the particles. Notwithstanding the central statistical role of the MSD, its asymptotic distribution has not yet been established. In this paper, we assume that the particle motion is a Gaussian, stationary‐increment stochastic process. We show that as the sample and the increment lag sizes go to infinity, the MSD displays Gaussian or non‐Gaussian limiting distributions, as well as distinct convergence rates, depending on the diffusion exponent parameter.
Balancing selection and genetic drift create unusual patterns of MHCIIβ variation in Galápagos mockingbirds
Authors: Vlček Jakub , Hoeck Paquita E. A. , Keller Lukas F. , Wayhart Jessica P. , Dolinová Iva , Štefka Jan
Published: August 2016

The extracellular subunit of the major histocompatibility complex MHCIIβ plays an important role in the recognition of pathogens and the initiation of the adaptive immune response of vertebrates. It is widely accepted that pathogen‐mediated selection in combination with neutral micro‐evolutionary forces (e.g. genetic drift) shape the diversity of MHCIIβ, but it has proved difficult to determine the relative effects of these forces. We evaluated the effect of genetic drift and balancing selection on MHCIIβ diversity in 12 small populations of Galápagos mockingbirds belonging to four different species, and one larger population of the Northern mockingbird from the continental USA. After genotyping MHCIIβ loci by high‐throughput sequencing, we applied a correlational approach to explore the relationships between MHCIIβ diversity and population size by proxy of island size. As expected when drift predominates, we found a positive effect of population size on the number of MHCIIβ alleles present in a population. However, the number of MHCIIβ alleles per individual and number of supertypes were not correlated with population size. This discrepancy points to an interesting feature of MHCIIβ diversity dynamics: some levels of diversity might be shaped by genetic drift while others are independent and possibly maintained by balancing selection.
Seismic Data‐Driven Identification of Linear Models for Building Structures Using Performance and Stabilizing Objectives
Authors: Shan Jiazeng , Ouyang Yuting , Yuan Hongliang , Shi Weixing
Published: August 2016

A two‐stage dual‐objective structural identification method is presented in this article. The complexity of the identification of story‐level physical models for large‐scale building structures is first addressed through a comparative study. A stiffness variation‐based stabilizing objective is proposed to be necessarily incorporated into iterative optimization with the classical performance objectives to improve the model feasibility, and an area‐type evaluation index is subsequently proposed for the stopping criteria. Accordingly, a two‐stage differential evolution‐based dual‐objective optimization framework is presented for the computation of Pareto fronts for nondominated candidate solutions. Then, the proposed method is investigated using two illustrative examples, including a nine‐story benchmark structure, and a real‐world seven‐story reinforced concrete structure. A series of condensed models are identified from the nondominated solutions on the Pareto front. The prediction performance of the single‐objective optimal model and the dual‐objective acceptable models is compared using the overall discrepancies of acceleration, interstory drift, and modal properties, within both estimation and validation cases. Incorporation of the noise effect into the method is finally studied and discussed.
A novel mutation in the PDZ‐like motif of ZASP causes distal ZASP‐related myofibrillar myopathy
Authors: Zheng Junjun , Chen Shuyun , Chen Yunqing , Zhu Min , Hong Daojun
Published: August 2016

Mutations in the LDB3 gene have been identified in patients with Z‐disc‐associated, alternatively spliced, PDZ motif‐containing protein (ZASP)‐related myofibrillar myopathy (ZASP‐MFM) characterized by late‐onset distal myopathy with signs of cardiomyopathy and neuropathy. We describe an autosomal dominant inherited pedigree with ZASP‐MFM that is in line with the typical phenotype of distal myopathy without cardiomyopathy and neuropathy, while mild asymmetrical muscle atrophy can be observed in some affected members. Muscle MRI revealed considerable fatty degeneration involved in the posterior compartment of thigh and lower leg, but relatively preserved in rectus femoris, sartorius, gracilis, adductor longus and biceps femoris breve muscles in the later stage. In addition, fatty infiltration of medial gastrocnemius muscle can be initiated as early as in the third decade in asymptomatic individuals. Myopathological features showed sarcoplasmic accumulation of multiple protein deposits and electron dense filamentous bundle aggregates. A novel heterozygous missense mutation (p.N155H) in a highly conserved PDZ‐like motif of ZASP was identified. The results indicate that typical ZASP‐MFM presenting with late‐onset distal myopathy is commonly associated with mutations in PDZ‐like motif of ZASP. The development of fatty degeneration is consistent with the typical pattern of ZASP‐MFM, and the initial fatty infiltration might be started from medial gastrocnemius muscle. Our study expands the clinical and mutational spectrum of ZASP‐MFM.
A novel Tos17 insertion upstream of Hd1 alters flowering time in rice
Authors: Hori Kiyosumi , Matsubara Kazuki , Uga Yusaku , Yano Masahiro
Published: August 2016

Heading date 1 (Hd1) is one of the major determinants of flowering time and regional adaptability in rice (Oryza sativa L.), because there is a significant correlation between Hd1 allelic diversity and phenotypic differences in rice cultivars. In this study, we isolated a novel rice mutant with a Tos17 retrotransposon insertion upstream of Hd1. The Tos17 insertion mutant of Hd1 [designated as Tos17(Hd1)] had decreased photoperiod sensitivity and mRNA expression of Hd1, as compared with wild‐type Nipponbare. Between Tos17(Hd1) and Nipponbare, expression levels of OsPRR1 and OsGI were similar, whereas those of two florigen genes Hd3a and RFT1, were significantly different under both short and long‐day conditions. Tos17(Hd1) showed photoperiod sensitivity intermediate between that of Nipponbare and a near‐isogenic line having a non‐functional allele of Hd1, indicating that Tos17(Hd1) has an attenuated but functional Hd1 allele. Our results revealed that allele mining of Hd1 may provide good opportunities to develop novel rice cultivars showing different levels of photoperiod sensitivity.
The first case of genetically confirmed monozygotic twinning in the dog
Authors: Joonè CJ , De Cramer KGM , Nöthling JO
Published: August 2016

Contents

Monozygotic twinning has not previously been genetically confirmed in the dog. This case report describes the finding of two viable male monozygotic foetuses within one placental site during caesarean section. Their umbilical cords attached to a single placenta. Genetic profiling using a total of 38 microsatellite markers, as well as amelogenin and SRY for sex determination, revealed identical DNA profiles, whether derived from blood or tissue (buccal swabs) samples. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of monozygotic twinning in the dog confirmed using DNA profiling.
Geographies of peace and the teaching of internationalism: Marie‐Thérèse Maurette and Paul Dupuy in the Geneva International School (1924–1948)
Authors: Ferretti Federico
Published: August 2016

Drawing on recent thorough‐going debates on ‘geographies of peace’, this paper addresses the experience of the French geographer Paul Dupuy (1856–1948) and his daughter, Marie‐Thérèse Maurette (1890–1989), in the Geneva International School between 1924 and 1948. Working with primary sources, I reconstruct their teaching of ‘synthetic geography’ and ‘international culture’, which aimed to establish didactic methods for peace education employing current geopolitical issues. I discuss this early experience in geographies of peace in order to put it in its historical and international contexts and to give a contribution to present geographies and geopolitics of peace, by underscoring the importance of internationalism and voluntarism. The main arguments of this study are the importance of multilingualism and cosmopolitan mentality, and the problems that politically committed geographies often found with institutions and ‘national schools’: the context of Dupuy's and Maurette's teaching was completely exterior to academia and marked by a strong voluntarism. In this, it joined former examples of extra‐institutional and engagé geographical networks, like those of the anarchist geographers Reclus and Kropotkin and of anarchist education, a tradition which played a role in inspiring Paul Dupuy's works.
Evaluation of a New Surgical Treatment for Equine Hind Limb Proximal Suspensory Desmitis
Authors: Brokken Matthew T. , Schneider Robert K. , Roberts Gregory D. , Holmes Shannon P. , Gavin Patrick R. , Sampson Sarah N. , Farnsworth Kelly D. , Dahlgren Linda A.
Published: August 2016

Objective

To evaluate the effects of a new microfracture and ligament splitting procedure on ligament healing and to examine the usefulness of magnetic resonance (MR) imaging for monitoring ligament healing over time using a collagenase model of hind limb proximal suspensory desmitis.

Study Design

Experimental in vivo study.

Animals

Healthy adult horses (n=6).

Methods

Horses were free of lameness with normal hind limb proximal suspensory ligaments (PSL). The origin of both hind limb PSL was injected with collagenase and underwent MR imaging 2 weeks later, followed by the microfracture and ligament splitting procedure on 1 limb, with the opposite limb serving as the sham‐operated control. Serial lameness and MR examinations were performed. Horses were euthanatized 210 days after surgery, the PSL harvested, and histology, biochemistry, and gene expression performed on both PSL.

Results

Collagenase lesions viewed on MR images appeared similar to those seen clinically. Serial MR images demonstrated resolution of abnormal signal intensity and tissue formation in the microfracture sites within the third metatarsal bone. Treated limbs had histologic evidence of connective tissue appearing to originate from the small perforations and blending into the ligament but no statistical differences were identified. Gene expression for cartilage oligomeric matrix protein and decorin were significantly increased in treated compared to control limbs.

Conclusion

The microfracture and ligament splitting procedure did incite a tissue response but further clinical investigation is necessary to determine if this tissue remodeling at the bone‐ligament interface translates to improved clinical outcome. MR imaging may be useful to follow healing in horses with hind limb proximal suspensory desmitis.
The use of embryonic cells in the treatment of osteochondral defects of the knee: an ovine in vivo study
Authors: Manunta Andrea , Zedde Pietro , Pilicchi Susanna , Rocca Stefano , Pool Roy , Dattena Maria , Masala Gerolamo , Mara Laura , Casu Sara , Sanna Daniela , Manunta Maria , Passino Eraldo
Published: August 2016

Purpose: the aim of this study was to determine whether local delivery of embryonic stem-like (ESL) cells into osteochondral defects in the femoral condyles of sheep would enhance regeneration of hyaline articular cartilage.

Methods: male ESL cells embedded in fibrin glue were engrafted into osteochondral defects in the medial condyles (ESL-M) of the left femur in 22 ewes. An identical defect was created in the medial condyle of the contralateral stifle joint and left untreated as a control (empty defect, ED). The ewes were divided into 5 groups. Four sheep each were euthanized at 1, 2, 6, and 12 months from surgery, and 6 ewes were euthanized 24 months post-implantation. To study the effect of varying loads on the long-term regeneration process, an identical defect was also created and ESL cell engraftment performed in the lateral condyle (ESL-L) of the left stifle joint of the animals in the 12- and 24-month groups. The evaluation of regenerated tissue was performed by biomechanical, macroscopic, histological, immunohistochemical (collagen type II) and fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) assays.

Results: no significant differences were found between treated and control sites in the biomechanical assays at any time point. ESL cell grafts showed significantly greater macroscopic evidence of regeneration as compared to controls at 24 months after surgery; significantly better histological evidence of repair in ESL-M samples versus controls was found throughout the considered period. At 24 months from surgery there was significantly improved integration of graft edges with the host tissue in the ESL-M as compared to the ESL-L samples, demonstrating that load bearing positively affects the long-term regeneration process.

Conclusions: ESL cells enhanced the regeneration of hyaline cartilage. FISH confirmed that the regenerative tissue originated from ESL cells.

Clinical Relevance: ESL cells are able to self-renew for prolonged periods without differentiation and, most importantly, to differentiate into a large variety of tissues.