bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Examining Key Stakeholder and Community Residents’ Understanding of Environmental Influences to Inform Place‐Based Interventions to Reduce Obesity in Rural Communities, Kentucky 2015
Authors: Gustafson Alison , McGladrey Margaret , Liu Emily , Peritore Nicole , Webber Kelly , Butterworth Brooke , Vail Ann
Published: July 2017

Purpose

Rural residents report high rates of obesity, physical inactivity, and poor eating habits. The objectives of this study were to (1) use the collective impact model to guide efforts to elicit community members’ perceptions of county‐specific factors influencing high obesity rates; (2) determine the association between utilization of food retail venues and concern about obesity and healthy eating; and (3) determine community members’ utilization of physical activity infrastructure and concern about physical inactivity.

Methods

The study was conducted in 6 rural counties in Kentucky with adult obesity prevalence rates >40%. Community stakeholders met to assess counties’ needs and assets in implementing interventions to reduce obesity in their communities. A random‐digit dial survey (n = 756) also was conducted to examine awareness and availability of community resources for healthy eating and physical activity.

Findings

Stakeholders identified lack of access to fruits and vegetables and poor physical activity infrastructure as contributors to obesity. Reporting moderate and serious concern about obesity and healthy eating was associated with higher odds of shopping at a supercenter compared with those expressing little concern. Reported access to information about physical activity opportunities was associated with higher odds of reporting the availability of safe places for physical activity, sidewalks, and trails compared with those who reported that information was difficult to obtain.

Conclusions

This study elicits community‐identified barriers to healthy behaviors and provides foundational data to inform future place‐based obesity reduction interventions.
Body Mass Index Category Moderates the Relationship Between Depressive Symptoms and Diet Quality in Overweight and Obese Rural‐Dwelling Adults
Authors: Abshire Demetrius A. , Lennie Terry A. , Chung Misook L. , Biddle Martha J. , Barbosa‐Leiker Celestina , Moser Debra K.
Published: July 2017

Purpose

This study was conducted to (1) compare diet quality among depressed and nondepressed overweight and obese rural‐dwelling adults and (2) determine whether body mass index (BMI) category moderates the relationship between depressive symptoms and overall diet quality.

Methods

Rural adults in Kentucky (n = 907) completed the 9‐item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ‐9) that assessed depressive symptoms and a food frequency questionnaire that generated 2005 Healthy Eating Index (HEI) scores. Participants were grouped into overweight (BMI 25‐29.9 kg/m2) and obese (≥30 kg/m2), and nondepressed (PHQ‐9 < 10) and depressed (PHQ‐9 ≥ 10) groups. Bootstrapped ANCOVAs were used to compare diet quality among the 4 groups. Ordinary least‐squares regression using PROCESS was used to determine whether BMI category (overweight vs obese) moderated the association between depressive symptoms and overall diet quality.

Results

Overall diet quality was poorer in the obese depressed group than in the obese nondepressed group. Intake of fruit and dark green/orange vegetables and legumes was lower in the obese depressed group than in the overweight nondepressed group. Depressive symptoms predicted poor overall diet quality (B = −0.287, P < .001) and the relationship was moderated by BMI category (coefficient of BMI category*depressive symptom interaction term = 0.355, P < .049). A significant inverse relationship between depressive symptoms and overall diet quality was observed in the overweight group but not in the obese group.

Conclusion

Components of diet quality vary according to BMI category and depressive symptom status. The relationship between depressive symptoms and diet quality is influenced by BMI category.
Association of single nucleotide polymorphisms in microRNAs with susceptibility to hepatitis B virus infection and HBV‐related liver complications: A study in a Saudi Arabian population
Authors: Al‐Qahtani A. A. , Al‐Anazi M. R. , Nazir N. , Wani K. , Abdo A. A. , Sanai F. M. , Khan M. Q. , Al‐Ashgar H. I. , Albenmousa A. , Al‐hamoudi W. K. , Alswat K. A. , Al‐Ahdal M. N.
Published: July 2017

The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of 10 SNPs in different microRNAs (miRNAs) with susceptibility to hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, HBV clearance, persistence of chronic HBV infection, and progression to liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Patients were categorized into the following groups: inactive HBV carrier, active HBV carrier, HBV‐cleared subject and cirrhosis+HCC. Samples were analysed for 10 SNPs in microRNAs using either PCR‐based genotyping or the TaqMan assay. We found that rs1358379 was associated with susceptibility to HBV infection, HBV clearance, persistent chronic HBV infection and liver cirrhosis+HCC. In addition, we found that rs2292832 and rs11614913 were associated with risk of HBV infection, viral clearance and cirrhosis+HCC, whereas rs2910164 was associated with proneness to HBV infection, and ability to clear the virus. There was evidence of associations between rs6505162 and HBV clearance and the development of liver disease, whereas a single association was found between rs2289030 and HBV clearance. Similarly, rs7372209 and rs4919510 were specifically associated with the development of HBV‐induced liver complications. SNPs in miRNAs affect the susceptibility, clearance and progression of HBV infection in Saudi Arabian patients. We found, using Gene Ontology or pathway analyses, that these genes may contribute to the pathophysiology of HBV infection and related liver complications. However, differences in the association of examined SNPs with various clinical stages indicate variations in the respective functional roles of these polymorphisms and their miRNAs, and thus, further investigation to fully explore their therapeutic potential is warranted.
Three regulators of G protein signaling differentially affect mating, morphology and virulence in the smut fungus Ustilago maydis
Authors: Moretti Marino , Wang Lei , Grognet Pierre , Lanver Daniel , Link Hannes , Kahmann Regine
Published: July 2017

Regulators of G protein signaling (RGS) proteins modulate heterotrimeric G protein signaling negatively. To broaden an understanding of the roles of RGS proteins in fungal pathogens, we functionally characterized the three RGS protein‐encoding genes (rgs1, rgs2 and rgs3) in the phytopathogenic fungus Ustilago maydis. It was found that RGS proteins played distinct roles in the regulation of development and virulence. rgs1 had a minor role in virulence when deleted in a solopathogenic strain. In crosses, rgs1 was dispensable for mating and filamentation, but was required for teliospore production. Haploid rgs2 mutants were affected in cell morphology, growth, mating and were unable to cause disease symptoms in crosses. However, virulence was unaffected when rgs2 was deleted in a solopathogenic strain, suggesting an exclusive involvement in pre‐fusion events. These rgs2 phenotypes are likely connected to elevated intracellular cAMP levels. rgs3 mutants were severely attenuated in mating, in their response to pheromone, virulence and formation of mature teliospores. The mating defect could be traced back to reduced expression of the transcription factor rop1. It was speculated that the distinct roles of the three U. maydis RGS proteins were achieved by direct modulation of the Gα subunit‐activated signaling pathways as well as through Gα‐independent functions.
Can habitat characteristics shape vertebral morphology in dolphins? An example of two phylogenetically related species from southern South America
Authors: Marchesi María Constanza , Mora Matías Sebastián , Pimper Lida Elena , Crespo Enrique Alberto , Goodall Rae Natalie Prosser
Published: July 2017

Fast swimming pelagic cetacean species have osteological characteristics that promote a more stable spine in comparison to that of coastal species. The Peale's dolphin (Lagenorhynchus australis) and the hourglass dolphin (Lagenorhynchus cruciger) have a close phylogenetic relationship and are found in coastal and pelagic waters in the Southern Hemisphere, respectively. The aim of this work was to study the relationship between the vertebral column's morphology and its flexibility, across these species of contrasting habitats. Vertebral counts and multiple measurements of each vertebra were used to infer intervertebral flexibility. Bivariate plots and discriminant multivariate analyses were employed to compare each functional region along the vertebral column. Both species displayed a regionalization of the column into three stable regions and two flexible areas, which statistically differ in the proportion of the skeleton occupied in each species. While the Peale's dolphin has rounder vertebrae, associated with higher flexibility, the hourglass dolphin has disk‐shaped vertebrae and strongly inclined processes related to high stability. Although the species are closely related phylogenetically, vertebral morphology is influenced by a diverse set of ecological and behavioral factors, reflecting a high degree of vertebral plasticity within the genus.
The first cases of Candida auris candidaemia in Oman
Authors: Mohsin Jalila , Hagen Ferry , Al‐Balushi Zainab A. M. , de Hoog G. Sybren , Chowdhary Anuradha , Meis Jacques F. , Al‐Hatmi Abdullah M. S.
Published: July 2017

Candida auris has been recognised as a problematic healthcare‐associated emerging yeast which is often misidentified as Candida haemulonii by commercial systems. Correct early identification of C. auris is important for appropriate antifungal treatment and implementing effective infection control measures. Here we report emergence of the first C. auris cases in Oman, initially misidentified as C. haemulonii.
What can the treatment of Parkinson's disease learn from dementia care; applying a bio‐psycho‐social approach to Parkinson's disease
Authors: Gibson Grant
Published: July 2017

Background

Within contemporary medical practice, Parkinson's disease (PD) is treated using a biomedical, neurological approach, which although bringing numerous benefits can struggle to engage with how people with PD experience the disease. A bio‐psycho‐social approach has not yet been established in PD; however, bio‐psycho‐social approaches adopted within dementia care practice could bring significant benefit to PD care.

Methods

This paper summarises existing bio‐psycho‐social models of dementia care and explores how these models could also usefully be applied to care for PD. Specifically, this paper adapts the bio‐psycho‐social model for dementia developed by Spector and Orrell (), to suggest a bio‐psycho‐social model, which could be used to inform routine care in PD.

Results

Drawing on the biopsychosocial model of Dementia put forward by Spector and Orrell (), this paper explores the application of a bio‐psycho‐social model of PD. This model conceptualises PD as a trajectory, in which several interrelated fixed and tractable factors influence both PD's symptomology and the various biological and psychosocial challenges individuals will face as their disease progresses. Using an individual case study, this paper then illustrates how such a model can assist clinicians in identifying suitable interventions for people living with PD.

Conclusion

This model concludes by discussing how a bio‐psycho‐social model could be used as a tool in PD's routine care. The model also encourages the development of a theoretical and practical framework for the future development of the role of the PD specialist nurse within routine practice.

Implications for practice

A biopsychosocial approach to Parkinson's Disease provides an opportunity to move towards a holistic model of care practice which addresses a wider range of factors affecting people living with PD. The paper puts forward a framework through which PD care practice can move towards a biopsychosocial perspective. PD specialist nurses are particularly well placed to adopt such a model within routine clinical practice, and should therefore be encouraged within PD services.
Accessibility of the Management's Discussion and Analysis to Citizen Users of Government Financial Reports
Authors: Yusuf Juita‐Elena (Wie) , Jordan Meagan M.
Published: July 2017

This study focuses on the accessibility of Management's Discussion and Analysis (MD&A), a key part of the GASB 34 financial reporting framework. We analyze MD&As extracted from Comprehensive Annual Financial Reports issued by the 50 state governments to answer the question: How accessible is the MD&A to citizen users of government financial reports? Using three dimensions of accessibility—size, readability, and timeliness—our results point to the inadequacy of MD&As in providing information to citizens about government's finances and financial condition. Our results make the case that existing financial reporting is neither transparent nor user‐friendly for citizens.
Transcriptome analysis of the brain under diapause and nondiapause conditions in the blowfly Protophormia terraenovae
Authors: Hase Hiroaki , Koukai Mayu , Hamanaka Yoshitaka , Goto Shin G. , Tachibana Shin‐Ichiro , Shiga Sakiko
Published: July 2017

The blow fly Protophormia terraenovae responds to photoperiod and temperature to control reproductive diapause. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the brain are investigated under diapause‐inducing and diapause‐averting conditions in search of potential genes for diapause induction. Total RNA is extracted from female brains 1–2.5 days after adult emergence under an LD 18 : 6 h photocycle at 25 °C as nondiapause samples and 3, 3.5, 7 and 7.5 days after adult emergence under an LD 12 : 12 h photocycle at 20 °C as diapause samples. From our transcriptome analysis, 626 350 654 reads are assembled into 126 231 contigs, from which 46 844 contigs (37.1% of the total) are annotated as protein‐coding genes. Among them, the expression levels in 549 contigs are specifically up‐regulated under diapause‐inducing (44.1%) or diapause‐averting (55.9%) conditions. Using quantitative real‐time reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction analysis, higher expression levels under diapause‐inducing conditions are found in a contig encoding angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE). Expression levels of the contig significantly increase 3 days after changing the photoperiod to diapause‐inducing short days. Rabbit antisera against 17 amino acid peptides included in P. terraenovae‐ACE stain one pair of cells lateral to the oesophageal foramen. These results suggest that the expression of a small number of genes is associated with the regulation of diapause in response to photoperiod and temperature, and ACE in the immunoreactive cells might respond to short days, which is why it is involved in diapause induction.
Transmission of China's Shocks to the BRIS Countries
Authors: Çakir Mustafa , Kabundi Alain
Published: July 2017

This paper investigates the effects of China on the BRIS countries, namely Brazil, Russia, India and South Africa. We identify Chinese supply and demand shocks and assess their transmission to BRIS in a structural dynamic factor model framework estimated over the period 1995Q2‐2009Q4. The findings show that Chinese supply shocks are more important than its demand shocks. Supply shocks produce positive and significant output responses in all BRIS countries. And while these supply shocks have a permanent impact on the BRIS countries, the effects of demand shocks are short‐lived. Both supply and demand shocks are transmitted through trade rather than financial linkages. However, the responses of the BRIS countries are heterogeneous and therefore require country‐specific policy responses.
Suction blister lesions and epithelialization monitored by optical coherence tomography
Authors: Ahlström M.G. , Gjerdrum L.M.R. , Larsen H.F. , Fuchs C. , Sørensen A.L. , Forman J.L. , Ågren M.S. , Mogensen M.
Published: July 2017

Background/purpose

Our objective was to assess epithelialization of suction blister lesions by optical coherence tomography (OCT) and benchmark it to histology using epidermal thickness (ET) as the primary outcome.

Methods

Thirty‐two healthy volunteers were recruited to Study 1 and 2. One 10‐mm suction blister was raised on each buttock, and the blister roof was excised. Lesions were covered with moisture‐retaining dressing. In Study 1, the lesions were OCT‐scanned on day 0 (D0), D2 and D4 and excised for histological examination. In Study 2, the progress of epithelialization and skin barrier function were monitored to D14.

Results

ET increased from D0 to D2 by 46 μm (P<.001) and from D2 to D4 by 19 μm (P=.004). Compared with histology, OCT overestimated the presence of the epithelium (P<.0001) and ET on D4. Reliable measurements were obtained when the ET of the lesions reached the ET of the normal epidermis from D5‐D7 and onwards. The ET development was reflected in decreased transepidermal water loss.

Conclusion

We found that the OCT technique was poorly discriminative with respect to the neoepithelium and the moist lesion surface material in the early postinjury period. In the later stages, OCT seemed valuable for estimating the advancement of epithelialization.
Human genetic factors in tuberculosis: an update
Authors: van Tong Hoang , Velavan Thirumalaisamy P. , Thye Thorsten , Meyer Christian G.
Published: July 2017

Tuberculosis (TB) is a major threat to human health, especially in many developing countries. Human genetic variability has been recognised to be of great relevance in host responses to Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection and in regulating both the establishment and the progression of the disease. An increasing number of candidate gene and genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) have focused on human genetic factors contributing to susceptibility or resistance to TB. To update previous reviews on human genetic factors in TB we searched the MEDLINE database and PubMed for articles from 1 January 2014 through 31 March 2017 and reviewed the role of human genetic variability in TB. Search terms applied in various combinations were ‘tuberculosis’, ‘human genetics’, ‘candidate gene studies’, ‘genome‐wide association studies’ and ‘Mycobacterium tuberculosis’. Articles in English retrieved and relevant references cited in these articles were reviewed. Abstracts and reports from meetings were also included. This review provides a recent summary of associations of polymorphisms of human genes with susceptibility/resistance to TB.
Recreational sandboxes for children and dogs can be a source of epidemic ribotypes of Clostridium difficile
Authors: Orden Cristina , Neila Carlos , Blanco José L. , Álvarez‐Pérez Sergio , Harmanus Celine , Kuijper Ed J. , García Marta E.
Published: July 2017

Different studies have suggested that the sand of public playgrounds could have a role in the transmission of infections, particularly in children. Furthermore, free access of pets and other animals to the playgrounds might increase such a risk. We studied the presence of Clostridium difficile in 20 pairs of sandboxes for children and dogs located in different playgrounds within the Madrid region (Spain). Clostridium difficile isolation was performed by enrichment and selective culture procedures. The genetic (ribotype and amplified fragment length polymorphism [AFLP]) diversity and antibiotic susceptibility of isolates was also studied. Overall, 52.5% (21/40) of samples were positive for the presence of C. difficile. Eight of the 20 available isolates belonged to the toxigenic ribotypes 014 (n = 5) and 106 (n = 2), both regarded as epidemic, and CD047 (n = 1). The other 12 isolates were non‐toxigenic, and belonged to ribotypes 009 (n = 5), 039 (n = 4), and 067, 151 and CD048 (one isolate each). Nevertheless, all isolates (even those of a same ribotype) were classified into different AFLP genotypes indicating non‐relatedness. In conclusion, our results revealed the presence of epidemic ribotypes of C. difficile in children's and dog's sandboxes located nearby, which constitutes a major health risk.
Draft Genome Sequence of Enterococcus faecalis ATCC BAA-2128
Authors: Putonti Catherine , Kalesinskas Laurynas , Cudone Evan , Engelbrecht Kathleen C. , Koenig David W. , Wolfe Alan J.
Published: July 2017

While a part of the native gut microflora, the Gram-positive bacterium
Enterococcus faecalis
can lead to serious infections elsewhere in the body. The draft genome of
E. faecalis
strain ATCC BAA-2128, isolated from piglet feces, was examined. This draft genome consists of 42 contigs, 12 of which exhibit homology to annotated plasmids.
Bilateral interstitial keratitis with anterior stromal infiltrates associated with reactive arthritis
Authors: Hsing Yi Eve , Walker James
Published: July 2017

A previously healthy 48-year-old man presented with a 1-week history of migrating polyarthropathy preceded by a viral illness, dysuria and bilateral red eyes. Ocular examination revealed anterior and interstitial stromal keratitis. He was systemically well but had raised erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C reactive protein and was positive for human leucocyte antigen B27 on extensive infective, rheumatological and autoimmune investigations. Although the exact triggering pathogen was not identified, clinical findings were consistent with reactive arthritis. Bilateral interstitial keratitis is a rare manifestation of reactive arthritis which, along with the anterior stromal keratitis, responded well to topical prednisolone sodium phosphate 0.5%. Systemic joint symptoms improved on oral sulfasalazine, non-steroid anti-inflammatory agent and low-dose prednisolone.
Isolated insulin-derived amyloidoma of the breast
Authors: Mayhew Jonathan Mark , Alan Tanya , Kalidindi Venu , Gandamihardja Tasha A K
Published: July 2017

Isolated amyloidomas derived from insulin are extremely rare, and there is only one reported case to date of insulin-derived amyloidoma in the breast.

We present the case of a 36-year-old woman reporting a lump in the right breast. It was clinically assessed as a probable fibroadenoma but was removed surgically given the size of the lesion. On histological analysis, the lesion had features consistent with amyloid. Further investigations showed the amyloid to be derived from insulin. The lump was removed in its entirety, and the patient made a full recovery.
Adrenal crisis in metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Doleschal Bernhard , Petzer Andreas , Aichberger Karl J
Published: July 2017

A female patient with oestrogen receptor-positive and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive invasive lobular breast cancer presented with progressive disease on CT scan. Some days after initiation of antineoplastic chemotherapy and anti-HER2 targeted antibody therapy, the patient presented with profuse diarrhoea, neutropaenia, nausea and weakness. AlthoughClostridium difficilewas rapidly tackled as a causative agent of gastrointestinal complaints, clinical situation did not markedly improve despite proper antimicrobial treatment. The patient reported profound lack of energy, while nausea, vomiting and loose stools still persisted. Additionally slightly exaggerated pigmentation of nonsunexposed skin and mucosal areas led us to the assumption of proopiomelanocortin-derived peptide hypersecretion. The combination of highly elevated adrenocorticotropic hormone and low basal cortisol levels taken from a morning blood sample established the diagnosis of adrenal insufficiency due to metastatic burden, leading to a near Addison crisis by gastrointestinal complications of chemo-immune therapy. Administration of hydrocortisone immediately relieved general symptoms .
Eyes and stroke: the visual aspects of cerebrovascular disease
Authors: Pula John H , Yuen Carlen A
Published: July 2017

A large portion of the central nervous system is dedicated to vision and therefore strokes have a high likelihood of involving vision in some way. Vision loss can be the most disabling residual effect after a cerebral infarction. Transient vision problems can likewise be a harbinger of stroke and prompt evaluation after recognition of visual symptoms can prevent future vascular injury. In this review, we discuss the visual aspects of stroke. First, anatomy and the vascular supply of the visual system are considered. Then, the different stroke syndromes which involve vision are discussed. Finally, topics involving the assessment, prognosis, treatment and therapeutic intervention of vision-specific stroke topics are reviewed.
Low-Voltage Circuit Breakers Based on WBG Solid-State Devices
Authors: Milojković Jelena , Litovski Vančo , Le Blond Simon
Published: July 2017

Conventional circuit breakers suffer from two main deficiencies: they are slow to operate and develop an electrical arc. These may be overcome by using solid-state switches which in turn introduce other problems, most significantly power dissipated while in the on-state. Nevertheless, a number of solid-state devices are candidates for implementation as low-voltage circuit breakers and there are several options based on the semiconductor material that may function as high-power switches. This paper presents a unique, extensive and systematic evaluation of these options. Voltage-controlled devices are selected due to the simplicity of the controlling circuit and their resilience to [Formula: see text]/[Formula: see text]-induced switching. Properties of fully solid-state circuit breakers are established and systematic comparisons are made among switches built of silicon and other wide bandgap (WBG) devices such as SiC MOS and GaN HEMT transistors. Using SPICE simulation it is shown that solid-state circuit breakers (SSCBs) based on WBG devices exhibit superior characteristics compared with silicon devices, with faster switching and higher voltage and current ratings. Hybrid circuit breakers, combining both conventional and solid-state switches, are discussed too and a new design circuit is simulated and compared to both conventional and fully solid-state designs.
Reliance Communications Ltd.: A House of Cards?
Authors: Vishwanath S. R. , Narapareddy Vijaya
Published: July 2017

Reliance Communications Ltd., a large, Indian telecom company has experienced severe financial difficulties brought on by poor management practices, an ill-conceived capital expenditure of more than $6 billion, a debt load of $5.8 billion, and changing industry dynamics. Interestingly, two analysts at a Canadian Investment Research firm gave a “sell” recommendation on the stock with a target price of INR 15 when the stock was trading at INR 93. The analysts also pointed out a possible rip-off of minority shareholders by the firm’s founders. The company’s stock price fell from a high of INR 844 in 2008 to INR 46 in 2012.

The company is in the process of restructuring its assets and liabilities. The case considers the economics of the business from the perspective of shareholders. Students are required to assess the company’s performance and decide whether they would invest in the company’s shares.

The first half of the case describes the company’s constituent businesses and the strategy followed by the wireless division. This gives students an opportunity to critique RCL’s marketing strategy and pricing of its services. The second half describes the company’s financial strategy, the instruments it issued and its restructuring initiatives. The case allows students to examine problems associated with high leverage and the challenges to restructuring in emerging markets.
Koufu: Fortune of an Entrepreneurial Singapore Hawker
Authors: Lee Pui Mun , Guan Chong , Chan Calvin M. L.
Published: July 2017

This case traces the rags-to-riches entrepreneurial journey of Mr Pang Lim in building his Koufu food court business empire over the past decades amidst the changing landscape of the food and beverages industry in Singapore. After dropping out of school at 13 years old, Mr Pang started work as a dishwasher in the 1960s. However, his entrepreneurial acumen enabled him to seize strategic opportunities and adapt to changing environmental forces to become the owner of Koufu, a leading food court chain in Singapore. When Koufu was founded in 2002, the food court business in Singapore was already dominated by other major players such as Food Junction and Kopitiam. Yet, through astute management, clearly defined market segmentation strategies, and a significant focus in brand-building, Koufu grew into an international food court empire. By 2012, it consisted of 54 food courts in Singapore, one food court in Macau, and annual revenue of $152.7 million. Koufu also grew to become one of Singapore’s most established F&B brands with many sub-brands in its stable. This case is suitable for use in Marketing Strategy and Strategic Marketing courses. Key marketing and branding theories and concepts illustrated in this case include macro-environment and micro-environment analysis; segmentation, targeting and positioning strategies; and branding architectures (i.e., house of brands, branded house, house brand).
Climate Change Adaptation to Heat Risk at the Local Level: A Bayesian Network Analysis of Local Land-Use Plan Implementation
Authors: Donner Julie , Sprondel Nora Friederike , Köppel Johann
Published: July 2017

Urban and environmental planning plays an important role in climate change adaptation. In this area, most German cities have developed adaptation strategies, inter alia tackling growing urban heat effects. Still in question, however, is how these measures will be implemented at the local level. The goal of this paper is to assess the implementation probability of climate change adaptation measures via local land-use plans using a Bayesian Network approach. Six plans were analysed in-depth. We used expert interviews to estimate the likelihood of implementing climate-adapted measures. Whether a local land-use plan stimulates climate change adaptation depends on a combination of different factors, e.g. the setting of the borough councillor in exchange with an investor, in a next step the willingness of the plans’ creator to implement adaptation strategies as well as an existing environmental report.
Master curve generation and modeling of ac conductivity for Mn0.7+xZn0.3SixFe2–2xO4 spinel ferrite system
Authors: Vasoya N. H. , Jha Prafulla K. , Saija K. G. , Bhalodia J. A. , Modi K. B.
Published: July 2017

The compositional dependence of ac conductivity ([Formula: see text]), real ([Formula: see text]′) and imaginary ([Formula: see text]′′) parts of complex electric conductivity ([Formula: see text]*) was investigated as a function of temperature ([Formula: see text]) and frequency ([Formula: see text] for Mn[Formula: see text]Zn[Formula: see text]SixFe[Formula: see text]O4, [Formula: see text], 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 spinel ferrite system. The compositional dependence of lattice constant values suggested that the most of the substituted Si[Formula: see text]-ions reside at grain boundaries and only a few Si-ions are inside grains. The variation of [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] is explained on the basis of segregation and diffusion of Si[Formula: see text] ions at grain boundaries and grains, respectively, and the electrode effect. Thermal variation of ac conductivity at fixed frequency suggested two different mechanisms which could be responsible for conduction in the system. It is found that [Formula: see text]* is not the preferred presentation for dielectric data and the scaling process of real part of conductivity by normalized frequency and the scaled frequency were found unsuccessful. The fitting results of ac conductivity data with path percolation approximation were found suitable in low-frequency regime while in high-frequency regime, effective medium approximation (EMA) was found successful.
Serial Arithmetic Strategies for Improving FPGA Throughput
Authors: Landy Aaron , Stitt Greg
Published: July 2017

Serial arithmetic has been shown to offer attractive advantages in area for field-programmable gate array (FPGA) datapaths but suffers from a significant reduction in throughput compared to traditional bit-parallel designs. In this work, we perform a performance and trade-off analysis that counterintuitively shows that, despite the decreased throughput of individual serial operators, replication of serial arithmetic can provide a 2.1 × average increase in throughput compared to bit-parallel pipelines for common FPGA applications. We complement this analysis with a novel SerDes architecture that enables existing FPGA pipelines to be replaced with serial logic with potentially higher throughput. We also present a serialized sliding-window architecture that improves average throughput 2.4 × compared to existing bit-parallel work.
Suppression of ciliary movements by a hypertonic stress in the newt olfactory receptor neuron
Authors: Wakazono Yoshihiko , Sakurai Takashi , Terakawa Susumu
Published: July 2017

Olfactory receptor neurons isolated from the newt maintain a high activity of the ciliary beat. A cilium of neuron is so unique that only little is known about regulatory factors for its beat frequency. We examined the olfactory receptor neuron immersed in various extracellular media under the video-enhanced differential interference contrast microscope. The activation of voltage-gated Ca2+ channels by K+ depolarization or by application of Ca2+ to membrane-permeabilized olfactory cells did not affect the ciliary movement, suggesting that Ca2+ influx through the cell membrane has no direct effect on the movement. However, when an extracellular medium contained NaCl or sucrose at concentrations only 30% higher than normal levels, ciliary movement was greatly and reversibly suppressed. In contrast, a hypotonic solution of such a solute did not change the ciliary movement. The hypertonic solutions had no effect when applied to permeabilized cells. Suction of the cell membrane with a patch pipette easily suppressed the ciliary movement in an isotonic medium. Application of positive pressure inside the cell through the same patch pipette eliminated the suppressive effect. From these findings, we concluded that the hypertonic stress suppressed the ciliary movement not by disabling the motor proteins, microtubules, or their associates in the cilia, but rather by modifying the chemical environment for the motor proteins. The ciliary motility of the olfactory receptor cell is directly sensitive to the external environment, namely, the air or water on the nasal epithelium, depending on lifestyle of the animal.
FoxO1 regulates myocardial glucose oxidation rates via transcriptional control of pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 expression
Authors: Gopal Keshav , Saleme Bruno , Al Batran Rami , Aburasayn Hanin , Eshreif Amina , Ho Kim L. , Ma Wayne K. , Almutairi Malak , Eaton Farah , Gandhi Manoj , Park Edwards A. , Sutendra Gopinath , Ussher John R.
Published: July 2017

Pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) is the rate-limiting enzyme for glucose oxidation and a critical regulator of metabolic flexibility during the fasting to feeding transition. PDH is regulated via both PDH kinases (PDHK) and PDH phosphatases, which phosphorylate/inactivate and dephosphorylate/activate PDH, respectively. Our goal was to determine whether the transcription factor forkhead box O1 (FoxO1) regulates PDH activity and glucose oxidation in the heart via increasing the expression of Pdk4, the gene encoding PDHK4. To address this question, we differentiated H9c2 myoblasts into cardiac myocytes and modulated FoxO1 activity, after which Pdk4/PDHK4 expression and PDH phosphorylation/activity were assessed. We assessed binding of FoxO1 to the Pdk4 promoter in cardiac myocytes in conjunction with measuring the role of FoxO1 on glucose oxidation in the isolated working heart. Both pharmacological (1 µM AS1842856) and genetic (siRNA mediated) inhibition of FoxO1 decreased Pdk4/PDHK4 expression and subsequent PDH phosphorylation in H9c2 cardiac myocytes, whereas 10 µM dexamethasone-induced Pdk4/PDHK4 expression was abolished via pretreatment with 1 µM AS1842856. Furthermore, transfection of H9c2 cardiac myocytes with a vector expressing FoxO1 increased luciferase activity driven by a Pdk4 promoter construct containing the FoxO1 DNA-binding element region, but not in a Pdk4 promoter construct lacking this region. Finally, AS1842856 treatment in fasted mice enhanced glucose oxidation rates during aerobic isolated working heart perfusions. Taken together, FoxO1 directly regulates Pdk4 transcription in the heart, thereby controlling PDH activity and subsequent glucose oxidation rates.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Although studies have shown an association between FoxO1 activity and pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 expression, our study demonstrated that pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 is a direct transcriptional target of FoxO1 (but not FoxO3/FoxO4) in the heart. Furthermore, we report here, for the first time, that FoxO1 inhibition increases glucose oxidation in the isolated working mouse heart.
Epigenetically Aberrant Stroma in MDS Propagates Disease via Wnt/β-Catenin Activation
Authors: Bhagat Tushar D. , Chen Si , Bartenstein Matthias , Barlowe A. Trevor , Von Ahrens Dagny , Choudhary Gaurav S. , Tivnan Patrick , Amin Elianna , Marcondes A. Mario , Sanders Mathijs A. , Hoogenboezem Remco M. , Kambhampati Suman , Ramachandra Nandini , Mantzaris Iaonnis , Sukrithan Vineeth , Laurence Remi , Lopez Robert , Bhagat Prafulla , Giricz Orsi , Sohal Davendra , Wickrema Amittha , Yeung Cecilia , Gritsman Kira , Aplan Peter , Hochedlinger Konrad , Yu Yiting , Pradhan Kith , Zhang Jinghang , Greally John M. , Mukherjee Siddhartha , Pellagatti Andrea , Boultwood Jacqueline , Will Britta , Steidl Ulrich , Raaijmakers Marc H.G.P. , Deeg H. Joachim , Kharas Michael G. , Verma Amit
Published: July 2017

The bone marrow microenvironment influences malignant hematopoiesis, but how it promotes leukemogenesis has not been elucidated. In addition, the role of the bone marrow stroma in regulating clinical responses to DNA methyltransferase inhibitors (DNMTi) is also poorly understood. In this study, we conducted a DNA methylome analysis of bone marrow–derived stromal cells from myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) patients and observed widespread aberrant cytosine hypermethylation occurring preferentially outside CpG islands. Stroma derived from 5-azacytidine–treated patients lacked aberrant methylation and DNMTi treatment of primary MDS stroma enhanced its ability to support erythroid differentiation. An integrative expression analysis revealed that the WNT pathway antagonist FRZB was aberrantly hypermethylated and underexpressed in MDS stroma. This result was confirmed in an independent set of sorted, primary MDS-derived mesenchymal cells. We documented a WNT/β-catenin activation signature in CD34+ cells from advanced cases of MDS, where it associated with adverse prognosis. Constitutive activation of β-catenin in hematopoietic cells yielded lethal myeloid disease in a NUP98–HOXD13 mouse model of MDS, confirming its role in disease progression. Our results define novel epigenetic changes in the bone marrow microenvironment, which lead to β-catenin activation and disease progression of MDS. Cancer Res; 77(18); 4846–57. ©2017 AACR.
Interferon-Stimulated Genes Are Transcriptionally Repressed by PR in Breast Cancer
Authors: Walter Katherine R. , Goodman Merit L. , Singhal Hari , Hall Jade A. , Li Tianbao , Holloran Sean M. , Trinca Gloria M. , Gibson Katelin A. , Jin Victor X. , Greene Geoffrey L. , Hagan Christy R.
Published: July 2017

The progesterone receptor (PR) regulates transcriptional programs that drive proliferation, survival, and stem cell phenotypes. Although the role of native progesterone in the development of breast cancer remains controversial, PR clearly alters the transcriptome in breast tumors. This study identifies a class of genes, Interferon (IFN)-stimulated genes (ISGs), potently downregulated by ligand-activated PR which have not been previously shown to be regulated by PR. Progestin-dependent transcriptional repression of ISGs was observed in breast cancer cell line models and human breast tumors. Ligand-independent regulation of ISGs was also observed, as basal transcript levels were markedly higher in cells with PR knockdown. PR repressed ISG transcription in response to IFN treatment, the canonical mechanism through which these genes are activated. Liganded PR is robustly recruited to enhancer regions of ISGs, and ISG transcriptional repression is dependent upon PR's ability to bind DNA. In response to PR activation, key regulatory transcription factors that are required for IFN-activated ISG transcription, STAT2 and IRF9, exhibit impaired recruitment to ISG promoter regions, correlating with PR/ligand-dependent ISG transcriptional repression. IFN activation is a critical early step in nascent tumor recognition and destruction through immunosurveillance. As the large majority of breast tumors are PR positive at the time of diagnosis, PR-dependent downregulation of IFN signaling may be a mechanism through which early PR-positive breast tumors evade the immune system and develop into clinically relevant tumors.

Implications: This study highlights a novel transcriptional mechanism through which PR drives breast cancer development and potentially evades the immune system. Mol Cancer Res; 15(10); 1331–40. ©2017 AACR.
Global Application of the Assessment of Communication Skills of Paediatric Endocrinology Fellows in the Management of Differences in Sex Development Using the ESPE E-Learning.Org Portal
Authors: Kranenburg Laura J.C. , Reerds Sam T.H. , Cools Martine , Alderson Julie  , Muscarella Miriam , Magrite Ellie , Kuiper Martijn , Abdelgaffar Shereen , Balsamo Antonio , Brauner Raja , Chanoine Jean Pierre , Deeb Asma , Fechner Patricia , German Alina , Holterhus Paul Martin , Juul Anders , Mendonca Berenice B. , Neville Kristen , Nordenstrom Anna , Oostdijk Wilma , Rey Rodolfo A. , Rutter Meilan M. , Shah Nalini , Luo Xiaoping  , Grijpink Kalinka , Drop Stenvert L.S.
Published: July 2017

Background: Information sharing in chronic conditions such as disorders of/differences in sex development (DSD) is essential for a comprehensive understanding by parents and patients. We report on a qualitative analysis of communication skills of fellows undergoing training in paediatric endocrinology. Guidelines are created for the assessment of communication between health professionals and individuals with DSD and their parents. Methods: Paediatric endocrinology fellows worldwide were invited to study two interactive online cases (www.espe-elearning.org) and to describe a best practice communication with (i) the parents of a newborn with congenital adrenal hyperplasia and (ii) a young woman with 46,XY gonadal dysgenesis. The replies were analysed regarding completeness, quality, and evidence of empathy. Guidelines for structured assessment of responses were developed by 22 senior paediatric endocrinologists worldwide who assessed 10 selected replies. Consensus of assessors was established and the evaluation guidelines were created. Results: The replies of the fellows showed considerable variation in completeness, quality of wording, and evidence of empathy. Many relevant aspects of competent clinical communication were not mentioned; 15% (case 1) and 17% (case 2) of the replies were considered poor/insufficient. There was also marked variation between 17 senior experts in the application of the guidelines to assess communication skills. The guidelines were then adjusted to a 3-level assessment with empathy as a separate key item to better reflect the qualitative differences in the replies and for simplicity of use by evaluators. Conclusions: E-learning can play an important role in assessing communication skills. A practical tool is provided to assess how information is shared with patients with DSD and their families and should be refined by all stakeholders, notably interdisciplinary health professionals and patient representatives.
Spinal Cord Compression Secondary to Metastatic Sinonasal Undifferentiated Carcinoma
Authors: Wang Arthur , Wainwright John V. , Amin Anubhav G. , Vail Eric , Silverstein Rachel , Das Kaushik
Published: July 2017

Sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma (SNUC) is a rare malignancy of the upper airways and anterior skull base that carries a poor prognosis. The tumor is known to be invasive into the surrounding structures of the skull base and brain. To date, there is only one existing case report documenting drop metastasis to the intradural extramedullary spinal cord. To the best of our knowledge, we present the second case of metastatic SNUC to the spine. This report describes a 59-year-old male with a history of head and neck SNUC who presented with thoracic back pain and bilateral lower extremity paresis. Neuroimaging demonstrated an extradural thoracic mass with severe spinal cord compression. The patient underwent thoracic laminectomy and fusion for decompression of the spinal cord and internal stabilization. The pathology returned as SNUC. The patient was subsequently lost to follow-up from our institution. Metastatic SNUC is rare. We discuss the relevant clinical imaging and review the literature. Such a malignancy portends a very poor prognosis.
O ogro no espelho: Hanibbal Lecter e o mito do homem selvagem
Authors: Cardoso Rosane , Oliveira Marina
Published: July 2017

O canibalismo é uma prática tão antiga quanto a humanidade e compreende muitos desdobramentos. Manifestou-se em períodos de fome intensa, em rituais pagãos e em representações artísticas. Tabu incontestável no Ocidente é visto atualmente como crime hediondo. Na literatura, a personagem que geralmente sintetiza esse tipo de barbárie é o ogro, criatura de índole perversa que quer devorar aqueles que atravessam seu caminho. O canibal/ogro adquire várias formas, de deuses primitivos, passando pela bruxa ou pela madrasta má dos contos de fadas até versões vampirescas. Este artigo discute o canibalismo na narrativa contemporânea, considerando o fascínio que provoca Hannibal Lecter, personagem central dos best-sellers de Thomas Harris e de exitosas narrativas audiovisuais. Colocando o renomado psiquiatra e serial killer na posição de ogro contemporâneo, analisa-se a sua relação, como ogro, com um mito ancestral, o mito do homem selvagem discutido pelo antropólogo Roger Bartra.
O azedo e o doce: a simbologia do alimento na construção da personagem feminina idosa nos contos “Feliz aniversário”, de Clarice Lispector; e “Doce de Teresa”, de Flávia Savary
Authors: Oliveira Marina João Bernardes de
Published: July 2017

Por meio do uso de metáforas voltadas tanto para o paladar, quanto para o alimento, culminando numa dicotomia azedo/doce, os contos “Feliz aniversário”, de Clarice Lispector; e “Doce de Teresa”, de Flávia Savary apresentam personagens femininas idosas oprimidas e manipuladas por um grupo dominante. Por essa razão, este artigo analisa como essas mulheres se comportam diante de tal dominação. Além disso, as estuda em relação à “zona selvagem”. Esta, de acordo com os antropólogos de Oxford, Shirley e Edwin Ardener, é um espaço onde as mulheres expressam o que lhes é reprimido por um grupo dominante.
Um minimanifesto
Authors: Barros Bruno Mazolini de
Published: July 2017

Tradução do texto "A Mini-Manifesto", de George Saunders, no qual o escritor e professor norte-americano argumenta acerca do ensino de escrita criativa na academia.
Falar, pensar, olhar: três verbos da gastronomia balzaquiana
Authors: Frattini Paula Caldas
Published: July 2017

O presente artigo pretende discutir a maneira como a poética balzaquiana atribui uma condição indispensável à comida na representação da vida do homem do século XIX em A Comédia Humana. A partir de uma leitura panorâmica dos romances balzaquianos, procuramos, primeiramente, analisar a relação entre a comensalidade e as características formais do texto. Em segundo lugar, seguindo outra vertente de sua poética, apontamos a dimensão epistemológica sobre a comida no movimento do pensamento balzaquiano presente na narrativa. Finalmente, como não poderia deixar de ser, em se tratando da poética balzaquiana, revisitamos a relação entre o descritivo e os aspectos visuais da representação gastronômica.