bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pay or preserve: a new approach to valuing cultural heritage
Authors: Boujdad Mkadem Abdelhamid , Zakriti Abderrahman , Nieuwenhuysen Paul
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to initiate a new approach to cultural heritage value through the highly revealing example of Chefchaouen city, Morocco. This study relates to approaching the valuation of cultural heritage per se. It does not evaluate or assess the economic value or the economic impacts of the cultural heritage. It tries to assess and measure the “culturality” of heritage based on local population opinion about urban heritage of the medina. This paper aims at obtaining information about their feeling and perceptions in respect of this heritage which may be useful for people democratic participation in decision making about heritage.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey using direct interviews with a sample of lower middle-class citizens coupled with direct administration of a questionnaire is carried out. The medina (but not the city) of Chefchaouen is the basis of the surveys conducted recently. The interviews are centered on the idea of preservation and participation instead of any monetized valuation.

Findings

The study has shown that there is a strong commitment of social category to participate in any type of activity leading to preserve the medina because it is their source of living and a source of profound affection. Therefore, this “willingness to preserve” may be seen as a key to define a new variable or attribute to measure the intrinsic value of heritage assets and justify the introduction in the national and international heritage list.

Research limitations/implications

This study should have been achieved with much larger target population and preferably through a funded project destined to preserve work and training. Funding for better experiences is severely lacking.

Practical implications

Local authorities may use this research and be inspired by it new and open dimensions. Serious collaboration between authorities and people should have the most promising results.

Social implications

Local authorities are more sensitive to population; therefore, they may include them in preservation planning and create employment by using the available funding.

Originality/value

This paper tries to enhance heritage study field at methodological level. It suggests a parameter shift to a more simple approach based on the local population opinion toward their heritage. Decision making about heritage should include people opinions and not people’s wishes.
Nobody deserves this fate: the vicious cycle of low human development in Guinea-Bissau
Authors: Só Bassiro , Franco Eduardo Ferreira , Carvalho Hamilton Coimbra , Santos Joaquim Rocha dos , Armenia Stefano
Published: November 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to understand and explore the causal relationship of elements responsible for the macro vicious cycle of poverty in Guinea-Bissau, and discuss policies to break it.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology used in this study is based on the system dynamics simulation paradigm.

Findings

Breaking the Guinean poverty cycle requires a multifaceted approach involving more resources and the building of several national capabilities. Traditional approaches tend to fail.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations come from the level of abstraction used in the model, which does not detail the processes for building specific capabilities and their interrelationships, and the necessary exclusion of variables that may have an impact in the process. Considering implications, the study models the evolution of human development index (HDI) in Guinea-Bissau, linking it to the economy and political sectors and allowing the simulation of different scenarios.

Practical implications

The study presents a critical stance towards common recommendations from international agencies, and it provides a blueprint for development of more effective public policies.

Social implications

Overcoming the poverty trap in sub-Saharan countries remains a challenge for the international community. The study aims at helping in the process of integrating different frameworks into a compact and manageable model.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the system dynamics and economic development literatures by presenting an integrative model of human development in Guinea-Bissau. There is no study in the system dynamics literature modelling the relationship of HDI to economy and political sectors while different and contradictory points of view characterize the economics literature, leaving well-meaning public officials in Guinea-Bissau at a loss of mental models to tackle the poverty trap in the country.
Relating Wiener’s cybernetics aspects and a situation awareness model implementation for information security risk management
Authors: Anjaria Kushal , Mishra Arun
Published: November 2017

Purpose

Situation awareness theory is a primary mean to take decisions and actions in a dynamically changing environment. Nowadays, to implement situation awareness, theories and models in organizational scenarios have become an important research challenge. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between the situation awareness theory and cybernetics. Further, the aim is to use this relationship to check the feasibility of situation awareness-based information security risk management (ISRM) implementation in the organizational scenario.

Design/methodology/approach

To investigate the relationship between situation awareness theory and cybernetics, Endsley’s situation awareness theory and Norbert Wiener’s cybernetics concepts and philosophy have been used in the present work. For a detailed study, concepts, techniques and philosophy of the cybernetics have been extracted from the thesis of Norbert Wiener titled “The human use of human beings” and “Cybernetics or control and communication in the animal and the machine”.

Findings

The present paper demonstrates that relationship can be successfully established between cybernetics and situation awareness theory. Further, this relationship can be used to solve organizational implementation issues related to situation awareness based systems. To demonstrate relationship and solutions of implementation issues, two case studies related to ISRM are also incorporated in the present case study.

Originality/value

The present work bridges two parallel and prominent theories of situation awareness and cybernetics. It also demonstrates that combination of both the theories can be used to feasibly implement situation awareness based systems in organizations.
Credibility of online reviews and its impact on brand image
Authors: Chakraborty Uttam , Bhat Savita
Published: November 2017

Purpose

Brand image is considered as a signaling phenomenon because high brand image ensures quality product that can reduce consumer’s uncertainty. A strong brand image induces consumers to pay higher prices, which in turn provides competitive advantage and market success to a company. Online reviews, blogs and texts on brand usage experiences are more effective than oral communication to build a strong brand image. Online reviews on products create distinct places for brands in the consumer’s mind, and thus ultimately affect images of the brands. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of online reviews on functional and hedonic brand images in the context of consumer electronic products in India.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study adopts a novel approach to collect data. The data have been collected from select e-commerce sites’ brand pages on Facebook through Google form application. A number of respondents are 1,038. Structural equation modeling technique has been used to examine the effects of online reviews on functional and hedonic brand images.

Findings

The data analysis reveals that source and review quality have more significant effect on credibility evaluation of online reviews as compared to the effects of review consistency and receiver. Moreover, credible online reviews have more impact on hedonic brand image rather than functional brand image in the context of consumer electronics product in India.

Originality/value

The present study combines Yale attitude change model and attribution theory to examine the effects of online reviews on brand image.
Rheological properties of instant milk‐based puddings prepared with emulsifying salt‐containing milk powders
Authors: Sadat Azin , Ezzatpanah Hamid , Bakhoda Hossein
Published: November 2017

The present work analysed the rheological properties, water‐holding capacity (WHC) and syneresis of instant puddings prepared with the emulsifying salt‐containing milk powders (ESMPs), which contained different proportions of disodium phosphate (DSP) and tetrasodium pyrophosphate (TSPP). Rheological measurements revealed that increasing the proportion of TSPP in the ESMPs increased gel stiffness (indicated by high values of Gʹ, G* and consistency index) and WHC, and decreased the tan δ and syneresis of the instant puddings. It was concluded that different interactions can be assumed dependent on the proportion of DSP and TSPP in the ESMPs added to the pudding system, and a mechanism was proposed for observed changes.
Chemical Constituents of Sweetpotato Genotypes in Relation to Textural Characteristics of Processed French Fries
Authors: Sato Ai , Truong Van‐Den , Johanningsmeier Suzanne D. , Reynolds Rong , Pecota Kenneth V. , Yencho G. Craig
Published: November 2017

Sweetpotato French fries (SPFF) are growing in popularity, however limited information is available on SPFF textural properties in relation to chemical composition. This study investigated the relationship between chemical components of different sweetpotato varieties and textural characteristics of SPFF. Sixteen sweetpotato genotypes were evaluated for (1) chemical constituents; (2) instrumental and sensory textural properties of SPFF; and (3) the relationship between chemical components, instrumental measurements, and sensory attributes. Dry matter (DM), alcohol‐insoluble solids (AIS), starch, sugar, and oil content, and also α‐ and β‐amylase activities were quantified in raw sweetpotatoes and SPFF. Peak force and overall hardness describing instrumental textural properties of SPFF were measured using a texture analyzer. Descriptive sensory analysis was conducted and 10 attributes were evaluated by a trained panel. Results showed that DM, AIS, and starch content in raw sweetpotatoes were significantly correlated (P < 0.05) with instrumental peak force and overall hardness (r = 0.41 to 0.68), and with sensory surface roughness, hardness, fracturability, and crispness (r = 0.63 to 0.90). Total sugar content in raw sweetpotatoes was positively correlated with sensory smoothness and moistness (r = 0.77), and negatively correlated with instrumental peak force and overall hardness (r = –0.62 to –0.69). Instrumental measurements were positively correlated with sensory attributes of hardness, fracturability, and crispness (r = 0.68 to 0.96) and negatively correlated with oiliness, smoothness, moistness, and cohesiveness (r = –0.61 to –0.91). Therefore, DM, AIS, starch, and total sugar contents and instrumental measurements could be used as indicators to evaluate sweetpotato genotypes for SPFF processing.

Practical Application

In recent years, sweetpotato French fries (SPFF) have grown in popularity, but limited information is available on SPFF textural properties in relation to the differences in chemical constituents among sweetpotato varieties. This study demonstrated that sensory texture attributes of SPFF varied widely and were significantly correlated with chemical components such as dry matter, starch, and total sugar contents of raw sweetpotatoes and instrumental texture measurements of SPFF. The knowledge generated from this study will benefit the food industry and breeding programs with the selection of sweetpotato varieties for improved SPFF quality.
In Vivo Therapeutic Effect of Vaccinium Meridionale Swartz in Ischemia‐Reperfusion Induced Male Albino Rats
Authors: Shen Mingge , Li Ketian , Jing Hongying , Zheng Linyi
Published: November 2017

This study was aimed to investigate the cardioprotective and antioxidant effect of Vaccinium meridionale Swartz in ischemia‐induced male albino Wistar strain rats. Rats were grouped into 5 of 6 numbers each. Group I served as a sham, group II served as control and group III, IV, and V served for 1, 10, and 25 mg/kg/d of an extract of Vaccinium meridionale Swartz for 15 consecutive days of treatment. Serum marker enzymes, lipid peroxidation, and myeloperoxidase were increased, whereas antioxidant enzymes were reduced in control due to injury. Increased phenol and anthocyanin contents and increased free radical scavenging activity was noted following treatment. Serum marker enzymes, necrosis, and lipid peroxidation, were reduced, whereas antioxidant enzymes and reduced glutathione were increased. Nitric oxide synthase and Akt expression were also increased following treatment. Taking all these data together, it is suggested that Vaccinium meridionale Swartz may be a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of ischemic injury.
Effect of Dairy Cow Crossbreeding on Selected Performance Traits and Quality of Milk in First Generation Crossbreds
Authors: Puppel Kamila , Bogusz Ewa , Gołębiewski Marcin , Nałęcz‐Tarwacka Teresa , Kuczyńska Beata , Slósarz Jan , Budziński Arkadiusz , Solarczyk Paweł , Kunowska‐Slósarz Małgorzata , Przysucha Tomasz
Published: November 2017

The main goal of crossbreeding Holstein–Friesian (HF) cows with bulls of other dairy or combined breeds is to improve their performance traits. Thus, the aim of this investigation was to compare the dairy performance traits of first generation crossbreds produced by crossbreeding Polish HF cows with bulls of other breeds (Norman, Norwegian Red, Danish Red, Brown Swiss, Montbeliarde, and Simmental). This was done by analyzing the fatty acid profile and technological quality of the milk from these first generation crossbreds. The investigation showed that crossbreeding greatly influenced the performance parameters and technological quality of the milk of the first generation crossbreds obtained from crossbreeding Polish HF cows with bulls of other dairy or combined breeds. The crossbreed cows characterized by the highest both quantity and quality of milk. Also, the best parameters of milk fat dispersion (that is, the highest values of these parameters) that are useful in the production of hard ripening cheeses and butter were found in the milk of crossbreed cows. Health beneficially, saturated fatty acids level in milk of crossbreeds was by 25.96% lower in crossbreds milk when compared to purebred cows. The most beneficial content of whey proteins was found in the milk of Polish HF and Norwegian Red crosses, where it was 19.04% higher than in pure breed Holsteins. F1 cows tend to express better functional traits than Holstein (PHF) cows. Effect of heterosis was larger and gave better results when there was a greater genetic distance between the animals used for crossbreeding.

Practical Application

The effects of heterosis are opposite to the effects of inbreeding depression, and it extends the lifespan and use of animals as well as improves their fertility and health. The main goal of crossbreeding Holstein–Friesian cows with bulls of other dairy or combined breeds is to improve their performance traits. F1 cows tend to express better functional traits than Holstein (PHF) cows. Effect of heterosis was larger and gave better results when there was a greater genetic distance between the animals used for crossbreeding.
Accounting Comparability, Audit Effort, and Audit Outcomes
Authors: Zhang Joseph H.
Published: November 2017

Accounting comparability among peer firms in the same industry reflects the similarity and the relatedness of firms’ operating environments and financial reporting. From the perspectives of “inherent audit risk” and “external information efficiency,” comparability is helpful for auditors in assessing client audit risk and lowers the costs of information acquisition, processing, and testing. I posit that the availability of information about comparable clients helps improve audit efficiency and accuracy. Empirical results show that comparability is negatively related to audit effort (surrogated by audit fees and audit delay). Moreover, comparability is negatively associated with the likelihood of audit opinion errors. These findings are robust to different specifications of regression models, particularly for the “endogeneity” issues due to the possible reverse causality that auditor style might influence client firms’ comparability. In sum, the study shows that accounting comparability enhances the utility of accounting information for external audits.
Shared additive genetic variation for alcohol dependence among subjects of African and European ancestry
Authors: Brick Leslie A. , Keller Matthew C. , Knopik Valerie S. , McGeary John E. , Palmer Rohan H.C.
Published: November 2017

Alcohol dependence (AD) affects individuals from all racial/ethnic groups, and previous research suggests that there is considerable variation in AD risk between and among various ancestrally defined groups in the United States. Although the reasons for these differences are likely due in part to contributions of complex sociocultural factors, limited research has attempted to examine whether similar genetic variation plays a role across ancestral groups. Using a pooled sample of individuals of African and European ancestry (AA/EA) obtained through data shared within the Database for Genotypes and Phenotypes, we estimated the extent to which additive genetic similarity for AD between AA and EAs using common single nucleotide polymorphisms overlapped across the two populations. AD was represented as a factor score by using Diagnostic and Statistical Manual dependence criteria, and genetic data were imputed by using the 1000 Genomes Reference Panel. Analyses revealed a significant single nucleotide polymorphism‐based heritability of 17 percent (SE = 5) in EAs and 24 percent (SE = 15) in AAs. Further, a significant genetic correlation of 0.77 (SE = 0.46) suggests that the allelic architecture influencing the AD factor for EAs and AAs is largely similar across the two populations. Analyses indicated that investigating the genetic underpinnings of alcohol dependence in different ethnic groups may serve to highlight core etiological factors common to both groups and unique etiological factors specific to each ethnic group.
Evaluating clinical stop‐smoking services globally: towards a minimum data set
Authors: Skinner Andrew L. , West Robert , Raw Martin , Anderson Emma , Munafò Marcus R.
Published: November 2017

Background and aims

Behavioural and pharmacological support for smoking cessation improves the chances of success and represents a highly cost‐effective way of preventing chronic disease and premature death. There is a large number of clinical stop‐smoking services throughout the world. These could be connected into a global network to provide data to assess what treatment components are most effective, for what populations and in what settings. To enable this, a minimum data set (MDS) is required to standardize the data captured from smoking cessation services globally.

Methods

We describe some of the key steps involved in developing a global MDS for smoking cessation services and methodologies to be considered for their implementation, including approaches for reaching consensus on data items to include in a MDS and for its robust validation. We use informal approximations of these methods to produce an example global MDS for smoking cessation. Our aim with this is to stimulate further discussion around the development of a global MDS for smoking cessation services.

Results

Our example MDS comprises three sections. The first is a set of data items characterizing treatments offered by a service. The second is a small core set of data items describing clients’ characteristics, engagement with the service and outcomes. The third is an extended set of client data items to be captured in addition to the core data items wherever resources permit.

Conclusions

There would be benefit in establishing a minimum data set (MDS) to standardize data captured for smoking cessation services globally. Once implemented, a formal MDS could provide a basis for meaningful evaluations of different smoking cessation treatments in different populations in a variety of settings across many countries.
Validation of automated screening for referable diabetic retinopathy with the IDx‐DR device in the Hoorn Diabetes Care System
Authors: van der Heijden Amber A , Abramoff Michael D , Verbraak Frank , van Hecke Manon V , Liem Albert , Nijpels Giel
Published: November 2017

Purpose

To increase the efficiency of retinal image grading, algorithms for automated grading have been developed, such as the IDx‐DR 2.0 device. We aimed to determine the ability of this device, incorporated in clinical work flow, to detect retinopathy in persons with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

Retinal images of persons treated by the Hoorn Diabetes Care System (DCS) were graded by the IDx‐DR device and independently by three retinal specialists using the International Clinical Diabetic Retinopathy severity scale (ICDR) and EURODIAB criteria. Agreement between specialists was calculated. Results of the IDx‐DR device and experts were compared using sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV), distinguishing between referable diabetic retinopathy (RDR) and vision‐threatening retinopathy (VTDR). Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was calculated.

Results

Of the included 1415 persons, 898 (63.5%) had images of sufficient quality according to the experts and the IDx‐DR device. Referable diabetic retinopathy (RDR) was diagnosed in 22 persons (2.4%) using EURODIAB and 73 persons (8.1%) using ICDR classification. Specific intergrader agreement ranged from 40% to 61%. Sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV of IDx‐DR to detect RDR were 91% (95% CI: 0.69–0.98), 84% (95% CI: 0.81–0.86), 12% (95% CI: 0.08–0.18) and 100% (95% CI: 0.99–1.00; EURODIAB) and 68% (95% CI: 0.56–0.79), 86% (95% CI: 0.84–0.88), 30% (95% CI: 0.24–0.38) and 97% (95% CI: 0.95–0.98; ICDR). The AUC was 0.94 (95% CI: 0.88–1.00; EURODIAB) and 0.87 (95% CI: 0.83–0.92; ICDR). For detection of VTDR, sensitivity was lower and specificity was higher compared to RDR. AUC's were comparable.

Conclusion

Automated grading using the IDx‐DR device for RDR detection is a valid method and can be used in primary care, decreasing the demand on ophthalmologists.
Demonstration of an anti‐hyperalgesic effect of a novel pan‐Trk inhibitor PF‐06273340 in a battery of human evoked pain models
Authors: Loudon Peter , Siebenga Pieter , Gorman Donal , Gore Katrina , Dua Pinky , van Amerongen Guido , Hay Justin L. , Groeneveld Geert Jan , Butt Richard P.
Published: November 2017

Aim

Inhibitors of nerve growth factor (NGF) reduce pain in several chronic pain indications. NGF signals through tyrosine kinase receptors of the tropomyosin‐related kinase (Trk) family and the unrelated p75 receptor. PF‐06273340 is a small molecule inhibitor of Trks A, B and C that reduces pain in nonclinical models, and the present study aimed to investigate the pharmacodynamics of this first‐in‐class molecule in humans.

Methods

A randomized, double‐blind, single‐dose, placebo‐ and active‐controlled five‐period crossover study was conducted in healthy human subjects (NCT02260947). Subjects received five treatments: PF‐06273340 50 mg, PF‐06273340 400 mg, pregabalin 300 mg, ibuprofen 600 mg and placebo. The five primary endpoints were the pain detection threshold for the thermal pain tests and the pain tolerance threshold for the cold pressor, electrical stair and pressure pain tests. The trial had predefined decision rules based on 95% confidence that the PF‐06273340 effect was better than that of placebo.

Results

Twenty subjects entered the study, with 18 completing all five periods. The high dose of PF‐06273340 met the decision rules on the ultraviolet (UV) B skin thermal pain endpoint [least squares (LS) mean vs. placebo: 1.13, 95% confidence interval: 0.64–1.61], but not on the other four primary endpoints. The low dose did not meet the decision criteria for any of the five primary endpoints. Pregabalin (cold pressor and electrical stair tests) and ibuprofen (UVB thermal pain) showed significant analgesic effects on expected endpoints.

Conclusions

The study demonstrated, for the first time, the translation of nonclinical effects into man in an inflammatory pain analgesic pharmacodynamic endpoint using a pan‐Trk inhibitor.
Interventions to promote healthy eating choices when dining out: A systematic review of reviews
Authors: Wright Breanna , Bragge Peter
Published: November 2017

Purpose

To synthesize review research pertaining to the effectiveness of interventions in dining‐out settings to reduce food/calorie consumption.

Methods

A rapid review methodology was employed to focus on synthesized research. A comprehensive search for peer‐reviewed systematic reviews from 2010 to 2015 yielded 1,847 citations. Following screening, ten systematic reviews were included.

Results

The 10 included systematic reviews identified 183 primary studies evaluating evidence in three behavioural intervention areas: social models/norms, manipulation of size, and provision of health information. Three systematic reviews evaluating the use of social models/norms found this was an effective intervention for influencing food intake. Five systematic reviews that assessed manipulation of portion/dishware/cutlery size found a small‐to‐moderate effect on food consumption. Three systematic reviews looked at the provision of health information, which was not effective alone; however, in combination with contextual or interpretive material such as traffic lights or exercise equivalence, this was shown to reduce calorie consumption. One systematic review covered two topic areas.

Conclusions

The results indicate that policies or interventions that aim to improve healthy choices or consumption when dining out would benefit from harnessing social norms and positive positioning of social identity. Furthermore, provision of health information should always be accompanied by an interpretative guide, such as traffic lights. Manipulation of plate/portion/cutlery size may be effective; however, the effect size is small and further research is required to investigate whether this effect is retained in overweight or obese populations.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

Eating behaviours (food choices, consumption) have played a role in the obesity epidemic.

Behavioural ‘nudges’ have tried to increase healthier eating choices.

What does this study add?

Social norms and modelling have a strong influence in both directions on how much people consume.

Provision of nutritional information needs to be paired with interpretative aids (e.g., traffic lights).

Manipulation of portion size is less effective in overweight populations.
User knowledge utilization in innovation of complex products and systems: An absorptive capacity perspective
Authors: Abrell Thomas , Benker Andreas , Pihlajamaa Matti
Published: November 2017

Firms tap into user knowledge to learn about the users’ needs. While users have been recognized as a valuable source of knowledge for innovation, few studies have investigated how their knowledge is integrated into innovation processes in the context of complex products and systems (CoPS). The purpose of this study is to reveal the practices of CoPS manufacturers to facilitate user knowledge utilization for innovation. We investigate two case companies, a medical device manufacturer and an aircraft manufacturer, and report on seven managerial practices for utilizing user knowledge. We adopt the absorptive capacity model in structuring our findings and elaborate three of the model's sub‐capabilities (recognition of the value of user knowledge, acquisition of user knowledge, and assimilation/transformation of user knowledge) by proposing that each is associated with a distinct managerial goal and related practices: (1) Sensitizing the organization to the innovation potential of user knowledge, (2) identifying and gaining access to suitable user knowledge, and (3) analyzing and interpreting user knowledge and integrating it into product development. Our study contributes to the innovation management literature by analyzing the capabilities required to utilize user knowledge throughout the CoPS innovation process.
Lymphocyte-independent pathways underlie the pathogenesis of murine cytomegalovirus-associated secondary haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis
Authors: Brisse E , Imbrechts M , Mitera T , Vandenhaute J , Berghmans N , Boon L , Wouters C , Snoeck R , Andrei G , Matthys P
Published: November 2017

Haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) constitutes a spectrum of immunological disorders characterized by uncontrolled immune activation and key symptoms such as fever, splenomegaly, pancytopenia, haemophagocytosis, hyperferritinaemia and hepatitis. In genetic or primary HLH, hyperactivated CD8+ T cells are the main drivers of pathology. However, in acquired secondary HLH, the role of lymphocytes remains vague. In the present study the involvement of lymphocytes in the pathogenesis of a cytomegalovirus-induced model of secondary HLH was explored. We have previously reported CD8+ T cells to be redundant in this model, and therefore focused on CD4+ helper and regulatory T cells. CD4+ T cells were activated markedly and skewed towards a proinflammatory T helper type 1 transcription profile in mice displaying a severe and complete HLH phenotype. Counter to expectations, regulatory T cells were not reduced in numbers and were, in fact, more activated. Therapeutic strategies targeting CD25high hyperactivated T cells were ineffective to alleviate disease, indicating that T cell hyperactivation is not a pathogenic factor in cytomegalovirus-induced murine HLH. Moreover, even though T cells were essential in controlling viral proliferation, CD4+ T cells, in addition to CD8+ T cells, were dispensable in the development of the HLH-like syndrome. In fact, no T or B cells were required for induction and propagation of HLH disease, as evidenced by the occurrence of cytomegalovirus-associated HLH in severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) mice. These data suggest that lymphocyte-independent mechanisms can underlie virus-associated secondary HLH, accentuating a clear distinction with primary HLH.
Assessing the validity of self‐reported history of rash caused by metal or jewellery
Authors: Ko Lauren N. , Kroshinsky Daniela , Schalock Peter C.
Published: November 2017

Background

The use of metal‐containing bio‐devices is becoming increasingly common. Self‐reported history of dermatitis with metal exposure is not established as being predictive for metal allergy.

Objectives

To assess the validity of two screening questions addressing metal allergy.

Methods

At Massachusetts General Hospital Contact Dermatitis Clinic, 2132 consecutive patients were asked either ‘Do you get rashes when jewellery touches your skin’ (Q1; N = 1816) or ‘Do you get rashes when metal touches your skin?’ (Q2; N = 316) before being patch tested.

Results

Testing showed that 20% of subjects had positive reactions to nickel, 7.4% had positive reactions to cobalt, and 5.8% had positive reactions to chromium. Q1 was 40% sensitive (95%CI: 35–45%). The positive predictive value (PPV) was 51%, and the negative predictive value (NPV) was 82%. Q2 was 77% sensitive (95%CI: 68–84%). The PPV was 71%, and the NPV was 84%. Q2 was 37% more sensitive than Q1 (p < 0.0001), with a higher relative risk (RR) (4.75, p < 0.001) than Q1 (RR = 3.01, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Patient‐reported metal allergy, although not perfect, is a reasonable method for metal allergy screening to help identify those needing further objective evaluation by patch testing.
In vivo reflectance confocal microscopy image interpretation for the dermatopathologist
Authors: Shahriari Neda , Grant‐Kels Jane M. , Rabinovitz Harold , Oliviero Margaret , Scope Alon
Published: November 2017

Reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) is a technology utilized for bedside diagnosis of cutaneous pathology by non‐invasive, in vivo, cellular‐level imaging. With the recent establishment of reimbursement codes by the US Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services, RCM is now likely to be employed by clinical dermatologists and impact decision making on skin cancer management. Dermatopathologists, therefore, would benefit from learning how to interpret RCM images and how RCM findings correlate with histopathological criteria of diagnosis. This review briefly explains the principles behind RCM image acquisition, describes the key RCM features of normal skin, and delineates the RCM characteristics of frequently observed benign and malignant neoplasms.
Eating disorders in people with Type 1 diabetes: experiential perspectives of both clients and healthcare professionals
Authors: Macdonald P. , Kan C. , Stadler M. , De Bernier G. L. , Hadjimichalis A. , Le Coguic A.‐S. , Allan J. , Ismail K. , Treasure J.
Published: November 2017

Aims

To explore the experiential perspective of people with Type 1 diabetes mellitus and eating disorders and that of the healthcare professionals treating them, and to understand the experience of both sides to inform future development of healthcare services.

Methods

Participants were recruited from Diabetics with Eating Disorders (a national UK charity), and through professional networks. Nine partially/fully recovered individuals with Type 1 diabetes and eating disorders and eight healthcare professionals participated in semi‐structured interviews carried out by medically trained researchers. Data were transcribed and coded using a six‐stage framework of thematic analysis.

Results

Four superordinate themes and several subordinate themes emerged from the Type 1 diabetes and eating disorders dataset: (1) perceptions surrounding service provision; (2) reflections on the recovery process; (3) the experiential perspective of living with Type 1 diabetes and an eating disorder; and (4) support mechanisms. Healthcare professional data elicited three superordinate themes and several subordinate themes: (1) service provision; (2) personal insight and reflection of professional role; and (3) challenges of working with dual diagnoses.

Conclusion

People with Type 1 diabetes and eating disorders and their healthcare professionals provided insight into healthcare services from the patient and care delivery perspectives. There was general agreement from both groups that a multidisciplinary, collaborative (family inclusive), clinical approach to treatment is important, as well as adequate training opportunities for service providers. These findings may help to inform development strategies for multidisciplinary care approaches to Type 1 diabetes complicated by eating disorders.
Mineralocorticoid receptor blockade improves glucocorticoid‐induced skin atrophy but partially ameliorates anti‐inflammatory actions in an irritative model in human skin explants
Authors: Boix Julia , Nguyen Van Tuan , Farman Nicolette , Aractingi Sélim , Pérez Paloma
Published: November 2017

We recently demonstrated that blockade of the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) effectively ameliorated GC‐induced skin atrophy in healthy human skin explants and epidermal MR knockout mice. However, whether MR blockade improves the therapeutic index of glucocorticoids (GCs) in skin pathology was not investigated. We assessed the effects of GCs, MR antagonists (MRA) or both, in SDS‐treated human skin explants. All treatments restored SDS‐augmented epidermal thickness but only GC plus MRA restored the expression of COL1A1. However, MRA alone or in combination with GCs may exert a dual role in regulating inflammatory cytokines. Thus, although combined treatment may be beneficial to improve irritative skin, extensive in vivo testing is required to establish whether the anti‐inflammatory effects of GCs are maintained in the presence of MRA.
Analysis of dynamic characteristics of through‐wall cracks between 2 boreholes in the directed fracture controlled blasting
Authors: Wang Y.
Published: November 2017

Through‐wall cracks between 2 boreholes in the directed fracture controlled blasting have been always concerned by researchers. Dynamic characteristics of through‐wall cracks between 2 boreholes and lateral crack propagation of boreholes in the double‐borehole slot mode and the synchronous blasting of boreholes were examined using the explosive loading digital dynamic caustics experiment system. And the effects of borehole loading mode and borehole clearance on through‐wall cracks between boreholes were examined using distinct lattice spring model numerical analysis, based on the experiment model. Findings show that the tips of through‐wall cracks between boreholes did not meet directly but staggered, continuously propagated after meeting, and moved closer to the existing anisotropic crack direction. The velocity and acceleration of crack propagation fluctuated. KI rapidly decreased from the maximum value, then gradually increased after a repeated volatility, and began to decrease after it reached the second peak. During the process of crack propagation, KII was basically smaller than KI. The dynamic energy release rate rapidly decreased from the maximum value, reached the second peak after the volatility, and gradually decreased again. The borehole loading mode and borehole clearance had significant effects on through‐wall cracks between boreholes.
Host specificity, infrequent major host switching and the diversification of highly host‐specific symbionts: The case of vane‐dwelling feather mites
Authors: Doña Jorge , Proctor Heather , Mironov Sergey , Serrano David , Jovani Roger
Published: November 2017

Aim

Highly host‐specific symbionts are very rarely found except with their typical host species. Although switches to new hosts are rare and difficult to detect, a switch to a host phylogenetically distant from the original one (a ‘major host switch’) could allow diversification of the symbionts onto the new host lineage. The consequences of such major host switches on the diversification of highly host‐specific symbionts of animals have rarely been explored. Here, we examine the host specificity of vane‐dwelling feather mites, a group that shows strong specificity, together with their host‐switching dynamics and the consequences of major host switches for their diversification.

Location

Global.

Time period

From 1882 to 2015.

Major taxa studied

Feather mites and birds.

Methods

Using the largest published dataset of feather mite–bird associations, we analysed raw, phylogenetic and geographical host specificity of feather mites. We studied host‐switching dynamics by describing the sharing by feather mites of bird species with different phylogenetic distances. For three of the most species‐rich feather mite families, we quantified the consequences of major host switches for feather mite diversification.

Results

Most feather mite species (84%) inhabit one to three very closely related host species. Assemblages of feather mites on birds do not show a geographical signature, but rather show strong host‐driven structuring. The probability that a mite species occurs on two host species decays sharply with host phylogenetic distance, with only one instance of a feather mite species occupying distantly related hosts from different orders. However, results suggest that despite the strong host specificity, a few major host switches triggered the origin of 21% of the species and 38% of the genera of the mite families studied.

Main conclusions

We show that feather mites are highly host‐specific symbionts, whose assemblages do not show geographical structure, even at a continental scale. We conclude that major host switches are very rare events with strong macroevolutionary consequences for feather mite diversity.
Forage selectivity by cattle and sheep co‐grazing swards differing in plant species diversity
Authors: Cuchillo‐Hilario M. , Wrage‐Mönnig N. , Isselstein J.
Published: November 2017

Interactions between sward diversity and forage selectivity of cattle and sheep managed within mixed grazing systems are not fully understood. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of either mono‐ or co‐grazing of sheep and cattle on swards differing in botanical composition (either diverse or grass‐dominated) on the intake choices of six target forage species. Jacobs' selection index (JSI) was employed to quantify the preference for single target species in relation to their proportion in the sward. Results revealed distinct intake preferences of sheep and cattle; as expected, sheep were more selective than cattle. To a lesser extent, the sward composition had an effect on intake preferences: cattle responded to botanical composition by changing their intake preferences, but to a lesser extent than sheep. Phleum pratense was the most preferred target forage species (JSI = 0.62). Lolium perenne, Taraxacum sect. Ruderale and Trifolium repens were also highly preferred regardless of sward composition or type of grazing (JSI = 0.47, 0.32 and 0.27 respectively). Dactylis glomerata and Festuca pratensis tended to increase in abundance after grazing events in both diverse and grass‐dominated swards. Co‐grazing of cattle and sheep facilitated a more homogeneous consumption of the target forage species evaluated.
Measuring activities and participation in persons with haemophilia: A systematic review of commonly used instruments
Authors: Timmer M. A. , Gouw S. C. , Feldman B. M. , Zwagemaker A. , de Kleijn P. , Pisters M. F. , Schutgens R. E. G. , Blanchette V. , Srivastava A. , David J. A. , Fischer K. , van der Net J.
Published: November 2017

Introduction

Monitoring clinical outcome in persons with haemophilia (PWH) is essential in order to provide optimal treatment for individual patients and compare effectiveness of treatment strategies. Experience with measurement of activities and participation in haemophilia is limited and consensus on preferred tools is lacking.

Aim

The aim of this study was to give a comprehensive overview of the measurement properties of a selection of commonly used tools developed to assess activities and participation in PWH.

Methods

Electronic databases were searched for articles that reported on reliability, validity or responsiveness of predetermined measurement tools (5 self‐reported and 4 performance based measurement tools). Methodological quality of the studies was assessed according to the COSMIN checklist. Best evidence synthesis was used to summarize evidence on the measurement properties.

Results

The search resulted in 3453 unique hits. Forty‐two articles were included. The self‐reported Haemophilia Acitivity List (HAL), Pediatric HAL (PedHAL) and the performance based Functional Independence Score in Haemophilia (FISH) were studied most extensively. Methodological quality of the studies was limited. Measurement error, cross‐cultural validity and responsiveness have been insufficiently evaluated.

Conclusion

Albeit based on limited evidence, the measurement properties of the PedHAL, HAL and FISH are currently considered most satisfactory. Further research needs to focus on measurement error, responsiveness, interpretability and cross‐cultural validity of the self‐reported tools and validity of performance based tools which are able to assess limitations in sports and leisure activities.
Investigations into in situ Enterococcus faecalis biofilm removal by passive and active sodium hypochlorite irrigation delivered into the lateral canal of a simulated root canal model
Authors: Mohmmed S. A. , Vianna M. E. , Penny M. R. , Hilton S. T. , Mordan N. J. , Knowles J. C.
Published: November 2017

Aim

To investigate in situ Enterococcus faecalis biofilm removal from the lateral canal of a simulated root canal system using passive or active irrigation protocols.

Methodology

Root canal models (n = 43) were manufactured from transparent resin materials using 3D printing. Each canal was created with an 18 mm length, apical size 30, a .06 taper and a lateral canal of 3 mm length, with 0.3 mm diameter. Biofilms were grown in the lateral canal and apical 3 mm of the main canal for 10 days. Three models from each group were examined for residual biofilm using SEM. The other forty models were divided into four groups (n = 10). The models were observed under a fluorescence microscope. Following 60 s of 9 mL of 2.5% NaOCl irrigation using syringe and needle, the irrigant was either left stagnant in the canal or activated using gutta‐percha, sonic or ultrasonic methods for 30 s. Images were then captured every second using an external camera. The residual biofilm percentages were measured using image analysis software. The data were analysed using generalized linear mixed models. A significance level of 0.05 was used throughout.

Results

The greatest level of biofilm removal was obtained with ultrasonic agitation (66.76%) followed by sonic (45.49%), manual agitation (43.97%) and passive irrigation groups (38.67%), respectively. The differences were significant between the residual biofilm in the passive irrigation and both sonic and ultrasonic groups (P = 0.001).

Conclusion

Agitation resulted in better penetration of 2.5% NaOCl into the lateral canal of an artificial root canal model. Ultrasonic agitation of NaOCl improved the removal of biofilm.
WHY DO CHILDREN TAKE CARE OF THEIR ELDERLY PARENTS? ARE THE JAPANESE ANY DIFFERENT?
Authors: Horioka Charles Yuji , Gahramanov Emin , Hayat Aziz , Tang Xueli
Published: November 2017

We conduct a theoretical and empirical analysis of why children live with (or near) their parents and provide care and assistance to them using microdata from a Japanese household survey, the Osaka University Preference Parameter Study. We find that the Japanese are more likely to live with (or near) their elderly parents and/or to provide care and attention to them if they expect to receive a bequest from them, which constitutes strong support for the strategic bequest motive, but that their caregiving behavior is also heavily influenced by the strength of their altruism toward their parents and social norms.
SOCIAL INTERACTIONS IN LARGE NETWORKS: A GAME THEORETIC APPROACH
Authors: Xu Haiqing
Published: November 2017

This article studies estimation of social interactions in a large network game, where all observations come from one single equilibrium of a network game with asymmetric information. Simple assumptions about the structure are made to establish the existence and uniqueness of the equilibrium. I show that the equilibrium strategies satisfy a network decaying dependence condition requiring that dependence between two players' decisions decay with their network distance, which serves as the basis for my statistical inference. Moreover, I establish identification and propose a computationally feasible and efficient estimation method, which is illustrated by an empirical application of college attendance.