bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating the Celebration of Black Friday as a Communication Ritual
Authors: Bell Gina Castle , Weathers Melinda R. , Hastings Sally O. , Peterson Emily B.
Published: November 2014

This study proposes a culturally based method for achieving greater customer-centricity in marketing by examining Black Friday as a communication ritual. It enables more effective marketing strategies because it explores the meaning of participating in ritual for the consumers. A total of 65 interviews were conducted over a two year period. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis ( Owen 1984 ) and were broken into theory-driven categories adhering to Philipsen’s ( 1987 ) definition of ritual. Data analysis revealed that shoppers engaged in a sequential set of symbolic acts: looking for deals; deciding where to shop; mapping out stores; developing in-store action plans; and assigning roles to perform. Furthermore, Black Friday shoppers celebrated four sacred objects: materialism; relational bonding; Christmas; and tradition. The findings are interrogated for their potential implications for more effective marketing strategies for these shoppers.
Thrombocytopenia, Platelet Transfusion, and Outcome Following Liver Transplantation
Authors: Chin Jun Liong , Hisamuddin Syafiah Hanis , O’Sullivan Aoife , Chan Grace , McCormick P. Aiden
Published: November 2014

Thrombocytopenia affects patients undergoing liver transplantation. Intraoperative platelet transfusion has been shown to independently influence survival after liver transplantation at 1 and 5 years. We examined the impact of thrombocytopenia and intraoperative platelet transfusion on short-term graft and overall survival after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). A total of 399 patients undergoing first OLT were studied. Graft and overall survival in patients with different degrees of thrombocytopenia and with or without intraoperative platelet transfusion were described. The degree of thrombocytopenia prior to OLT did not affect graft or overall survival after transplant. However, graft survival in patients receiving platelets was significantly reduced at 1 year ( P = .023) but not at 90 days ( P = .093). Overall survival was significantly reduced at both 90 days ( P = .040) and 1 year ( P = .037) in patients receiving platelets. We conclude that a consistently lower graft and overall survival were observed in patients receiving intraoperative platelet transfusion.
The Community Psychology Evaluation Nexus
Authors: Sheldon Jeffrey A. , Wolfe Susan M.
Published: November 2014

In 2012, the American Evaluation Association (AEA) added community psychology (CP) to its roster of topical interests groups (TIG). One of the highlights of the CP TIG program at the 2012 AEA Conference and the genesis of this American Journal of Evaluation Forum was a panel of accomplished community psychologists and evaluation practitioners that included James Cook, Rebecca Campbell, Robin Lin Miller, and Michael Morris with David Fetterman as discussant. This forum brings together three of these panelists: James Cook, Robin Lin Miller, and Michael Morris who have each offered to the evaluation community an essay on the community psychology—evaluation nexus. In this introduction, we offer our highlights and takeaways from these three essays, which provide their unique perspectives on evaluation through the lens of CP and from their practical experiences.
Is hypertension in adult age related to unemployment at a young age? Results from the Northern Swedish Cohort
Authors: Nygren Karina , Gong Weidan , Hammarström Anne
Published: November 2014

Aim: The aim of this study was to analyse the relationship between early unemployment (ages 16–21 years) and adult hypertension after controlling for earlier hypertension, unemployment in adult life, risk factors for hypertension and confounders. Methods: A cohort of 927 (86.6% of the original cohort) 9th grade school-leavers was followed from 1981 until 2008. Data were collected through questionnaires, health examinations, and national registers. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used as primary statistical methods. Results: At ages 21 and 43, hypertension was significantly more prevalent among men than women ( p < .001). Unemployment between the ages of 16 and 21 was related to hypertension at age 43 among women but not men. The odds ratio (OR) was persistently high (OR 3.16 [95% confidence interval 1.45–6.89]) after controlling for late unemployment, hypertension at age 16, risk factors for hypertension and confounders. There was no significant relationship between exposure to early unemployment and hypertension at age 21 for women or men. Conclusions: From a public health perspective, youth unemployment is a societal problem in need of more attention and intervention in order to prevent long-term adverse health outcomes.
Salir adelante (perseverance): Lessons from the Mexican immigrant experience
Authors: Hanna Ashley-Marie Vollmer , Ortega Debora Marie
Published: November 2014

Although migration and immigrant issues have been well studied in sociology, economics, and demography there is significantly less information specific to Latino immigrants within the field of social work. This is of particular concern as the population of Latino immigrants and their children continues to grow and access areas of social work practice and policy development. This research study focuses on understanding the experience of first-generation immigrants of Mexican origin living in Denver, Colorado, through the use of qualitative research methods. Seven Mexican immigrants living in Denver described their experience through an in-depth interview process. Grounded theory was the chosen method for analysis.

Findings

Four themes emerged during the data analysis process: (1) ‘We are working people’; (2) ‘I am not an animal’ (experiencing racism, prejudice and discrimination); (3) fear; and (4) internal strength. Together these themes create a conceptual framework that is useful as a starting place to understand the lives and culture of Mexican immigrants. This conceptual framework highlights how immigrants negotiate racism, prejudice, discrimination, and fear through their strong work ethic and the belief in their ability to ‘ salir adelante’ (to persevere or better oneself or one’s family situation).

Applications

Results indicate that Mexican immigrants are faced with numerous challenges, particularly due to racist laws, discriminatory procedures, and acts of prejudice. However, results also suggest that Mexican immigrants and their cultural resources provide a source of hope, allowing them to persevere even as they face challenges. The findings have several implications for direct service, advocacy and social justice, and social work education.
Room lighting in the absence of a defined visual task and the impact of mean room surface exitance
Authors: Raynham P
Published: November 2014

With conditions for lighting design changing it is becoming important to consider what to do in rooms where there is no particular visual task. The current European standard for lighting in work places gives a number of requirements for room lighting, the most onerous being the requirement for cylindrical illuminance. Mean room surface exitance (MRSE) has been put forward as a metric that is a good predictor of perceived adequacy of illumination. The paper examines the consequences of adopting a proposed MRSE target of 100 lumens per square metre in two sizes of room with a variety of surface reflectances and lit by a regular array of light sources with a range of light distributions. The paper concludes that significant extra luminous flux will be required to meet the new MRSE target and that light distributions with a significant upward component will also be needed.
Risk-Averse Team Owners and Players’ Salaries in Major League Baseball
Authors: Krautmann Anthony C.
Published: November 2014

This article looks at the role an owner’s attitude toward risk plays in his salary bids for free agents in Major League Baseball. We show that risk-averse owners will pay a premium for consistency on the field. Our empirical results are consistent with the hypothesis that a free agent’s contract terms are negatively related to the degree of variability in his performance. To the extent that our results carry over to all players, this suggests a heretofore unrecognized factor affecting the market for talent in professional sports.
“I Don’t Shag Dirty Girls”
Authors: Limmer Mark
Published: November 2014

Understanding and addressing the sexual risk taking of young men remains a key research, policy, and practice concern in attempts to improve the emotional and physical sexual health of young men and their sexual partners. This article explores one of the ways in which young men attempt to mitigate sexual risk through the assigning of labels to particular young women and using these as a basis for their decisions in relation to sexual activity, contraception, and condom use. The article uses the lens of hegemonic masculinities theory to increase understanding of the role played by the construction and performance of marginalized masculinities and how these in turn are influenced by social exclusionary processes. The article draws on focus group and interview data from 46 young men aged 15 to 17 years living in the northwest of England, purposively selected on the basis of the prevailing policy definitions of social inclusion and exclusion. The article describes a form of marginalized masculinity pertaining to socially excluded young men, which as a result of limited access to other tenets of hegemonic masculinity, is disproportionately reliant on sexual expertise and voracity alongside overt demonstrations of their superiority over women. It is in this context that young women are assigned the labels of “dirty” or “clean” on the basis of a selection of arbitrary judgments relating to dress, demeanor, area of residence, and perceived sexual activities. The motivations of the young men, the impact on young women, and the policy and practice implications are all discussed.
Tips and tricks for retrieval of permanent TRAPEASE® filters for inferior vena cava
Authors: Mousa Albeir Y , AbuHalimah Shadi , Yacoub Michael , Sheikh Iqra , AbuRahma Ali F
Published: November 2014

The placement of permanent inferior vena cava filters has definite indications and some filters have been shown to be more problematic in the long term than others. This report outlines the technique for TRAPEASE® filter removal in two patients. The first filter was retrieved four weeks after insertion and the second filter was retrieved 14 months after it was inserted at another institution. A planned approach for retrieval is described in these case reports.
Surface stress effects on the free vibration and bending analysis of the nonlocal single-layer graphene sheet embedded in an elastic medium using energy method
Authors: Mohammadimehr Mehdi , Mohammadi Najafabadi Mohammad Mahdi , Nasiri Hossein , Rousta Navi Borhan
Published: November 2014

In this article, using energy method, the effect of surface stress on the free vibration and bending analysis of single-layer graphene sheet embedded in an elastic medium based on nonlocal elasticity theory is studied. Surface stress plays a more important role due to the high surface-to-volume ratio in nanoscale materials. For this purpose, Gurtin–Murdoch continuum mechanics approach is used. The effects of surface properties including surface elasticity, surface residual stresses and surface mass density are considered. In this research, the effects of Winkler spring constant, Pasternak shear constant, aspect ratio, Young’s modulus of surface layer, surface residual stress, nonlocal parameter on the natural frequency ratio and deflection of single-layer graphene sheet are investigated. The results indicate that the natural frequency ratio decreases with an increase in the surface residual stress and vice versa for deflection of nonlocal single-layer graphene sheet. Also, the natural frequency ratio increases with an increase in Young’s modulus of surface layer and vice versa for deflection of nonlocal single-layer graphene sheet. Moreover, the elastic medium causes to stiffen the single-layer graphene sheet. The influence of the small-scale parameter on the natural frequency ratio and deflection of single-layer graphene sheet is more significant for lower values of foundation parameters and vice versa for higher values of foundation parameters.
Succeeding at Sales by Avoiding Failure: Social Achievement Goals in a Collectivist Cultural Context
Authors: Kumar Shamala , Gunawardana Hasini
Published: November 2014

Social achievement goals are introduced as useful in understanding the motivation of sales people. Further, although past research has indicated that avoidance based achievement goals are maladaptive, recent evidence suggests they are less harmful or may even be helpful in collectivist cultural contexts. Yet, this research has not been extended to work settings. The study tests the validity of social goals and the nature of avoidance based goals in predicting sales outcomes in Sri Lanka. Salespeople in a large organization were surveyed to examine their motivational goals and performance. Results indicated that social achievement goals were predictive of performance and that avoidance based social achievement goals were positively related or unrelated to sales performance. The findings highlight social achievement goals as useful to understanding the behaviour and motivation of salespeople and suggest that regional variations in culture may require motivational programmes that are very different in nature.
Interaction mechanism between void and interface grain boundary in diffusion bonding
Authors: Zhang C. , Li H. , Li M. Q.
Published: November 2014

The interaction process between void and migrating interface grain boundary (IGB) in the bonding interface of 1Cr11Ni2W2MoV steel joints produced by diffusion bonding has been examined, and the corresponding interaction mechanism was analysed. The results showed that there were two cases occurring in void–IGB interaction by comparing the IGB velocity with void velocity: if the IGB velocity exceeded the void velocity, the void would separate from the IGB and be trapped inside the grain; otherwise, the void would attach to and migrate with the IGB. It was also found that the void–IGB interaction was related to the radius of void. The bigger voids easily separated from the migrating IGB, while the smaller voids tended to attach to it. The approximate theoretical values of critical radius of voids for separation/attachment were derived, and they agreed well with the experimental values obtained.
Towards a close computed tomography monitoring approach for screen detected subsolid pulmonary nodules?
Authors: Scholten Ernst T. , de Jong Pim A. , de Hoop Bartjan , van Klaveren Rob , van Amelsvoort-van de Vorst Saskia , Oudkerk Matthijs , Vliegenthart Rozemarijn , de Koning Harry J. , van der Aalst Carlijn M. , Vernhout René M. , Groen Harry J.M. , Lammers Jan-Willem J. , van Ginneken Bram , Jacobs Colin , Mali Willem P.T.M. , Horeweg Nanda , Weenink Carla , Thunnissen Erik , Prokop Mathias , Gietema Hester A.
Published: November 2014

Pulmonary subsolid nodules (SSNs) have a high likelihood of malignancy, but are often indolent. A conservative treatment approach may therefore be suitable. The aim of the current study was to evaluate whether close follow-up of SSNs with computed tomography may be a safe approach.

The study population consisted of participants of the Dutch-Belgian lung cancer screening trial (Nederlands Leuvens Longkanker Screenings Onderzoek; NELSON). All SSNs detected during the trial were included in this analysis. Retrospectively, all persistent SSNs and SSNs that were resected after first detection were segmented using dedicated software, and maximum diameter, volume and mass were measured. Mass doubling time (MDT) was calculated.

In total 7135 volunteers were included in the current analysis. 264 (3.3%) SSNs in 234 participants were detected during the trial. 147 (63%) of these SSNs in 126 participants disappeared at follow-up, leaving 117 persistent or directly resected SSNs in 108 (1.5%) participants available for analysis. The median follow-up time was 95 months (range 20–110 months). 33 (28%) SSNs were resected and 28 of those were (pre-) invasive. None of the non-resected SSNs progressed into a clinically relevant malignancy.

Persistent SSNs rarely developed into clinically manifest malignancies unexpectedly. Close follow-up with computed tomography may be a safe option to monitor changes.
Fabrication and NO2 gas sensing performance of TeO2-core/CuO-shell heterostructure nanorod sensors
Authors: Park Sunghoon , Kim Soohyun , Sun Gun-Joo , In Lee Wan , Kim Kyoung Kook , Lee Chongmu
Published: November 2014

TeO2-nanostructured sensors are seldom reported compared to other metal oxide semiconductor materials such as ZnO, In2O3, TiO2, Ga2O3, etc. TeO2/CuO core-shell nanorods were fabricated by thermal evaporation of Te powder followed by sputter deposition of CuO. Scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction showed that each nanorod consisted of a single crystal TeO2 core and a polycrystalline CuO shell with a thickness of approximately 7 nm. The TeO2/CuO core-shell one-dimensional (1D) nanostructures exhibited a bamboo leaf-like morphology. The core-shell nanorods were 100 to 300 nm in diameter and up to 30 μm in length. The multiple networked TeO2/CuO core-shell nanorod sensor showed responses of 142% to 425% to 0.5- to 10-ppm NO2 at 150°C. These responses were stronger than or comparable to those of many other metal oxide nanostructures, suggesting that TeO2 is also a promising sensor material. The responses of the core-shell nanorods were 1.2 to 2.1 times higher than those of pristine TeO2 nanorods over the same NO2 concentration range. The underlying mechanism for the enhanced NO2 sensing properties of the core-shell nanorod sensor can be explained by the potential barrier-controlled carrier transport mechanism.

PACS

61.46. + w; 07.07.Df; 73.22.-f
Preparation of ractopamine-tetraphenylborate complexed nanoparticles used as sensors to rapidly determine ractopamine residues in pork
Authors: Zhang Jing , Shao Xintian , Yue Jingli , Li Donghui , Chen Zhenhua
Published: November 2014

In this work, we reported a simple, fast, and sensitive determination of ractopamine (RAC) residues in pork by using novel ractopamine-tetraphenylborate complexed nanoparticles (RT NPs) as sensors. The prepared RT NPs exhibited a fast response time of 10 s, a wide linear range from 0.1 to 1.0 × 10−7 mol/L, and a very low detection limit of 7.4 × 10−8 mol/L. The prepared sensor also presents a high selectivity for ractopamine under different pH conditions ranged from 2.85 to 7.18. These results reveal that the fabricated RT NPs can be used as efficient electrochemical sensors to determine ractopamine in animal productions.
The n-type Ge photodetectors with gold nanoparticles deposited to enhance the responsivity
Authors: Hsiao Hao-Tse , Ni I-Chih , Tzeng Shien-Der , Lin Wei-Fan , Lin Chu-Hsuan
Published: November 2014

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have been deposited on n-type Ge photodetectors to improve the responsivity. Two different coverage ratios, including 10.5 and 30.3% of AuNPs have been prepared, and the fabricated photodetectors are compared with the control sample. The 1,310-nm responsivities at -2 V of the control, 10.5% AuNPs, and 30.3% AuNPs samples are 465, 556, and 623 mA/W, respectively. The AuNPs could increase the responsivities due to the plasmon resonance. The reflectance spectra of these samples have been measured to verify that plasmon resonance contributes to the forward scattering of incident light. The reflectance decreases with AuNP deposition, and a denser coverage results in a smaller reflectance. The smaller reflectance indicates more light could penetrate into the Ge active layer, and it results in a larger responsivity.
Categorization of allergic disorders in the new World Health Organization International Classification of Diseases
Authors: Tanno Luciana Kase , Calderon Moises A , Goldberg Bruce J , Akdis Cezmi A , Papadopoulos Nikolaos G , Demoly Pascal
Published: November 2014

Background

Although efforts to improve the classification of hypersensitivity/allergic diseases have been made, they have not been considered a top‐level category in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD)‐10 and still are not in the ICD‐11 beta phase linearization. ICD‐10 is the most used classification system by the allergy community worldwide but it is not considered as appropriate for clinical practice. The Systematized Nomenclature of Medicine Clinical Terms (SNOMED CT) on the other hand contains a tightly integrated classification of hypersensitivity/allergic disorders based on the EAACI/WAO nomenclature and the World Health Organization (WHO) may plan to align ICD‐11 with SNOMED CT so that they share a common ontological basis.

Methods

With the aim of actively supporting the ongoing ICD‐11 revision and the optimal practice of Allergology, we performed a careful comparison of ICD‐10 and 11 beta phase linearization codes to identify gaps, areas of regression in allergy coding and possibly reach solutions, in collaboration with committees in charge of the ICD‐11 revision.

Results

We have found a significant degree of misclassification of terms in the allergy‐related hierarchies. This stems not only from unclear definitions of these conditions but also the use of common names that falsely imply allergy. The lack of understanding of the immune mechanisms underlying some of the conditions contributes to the difficulty in classification.

Conclusions

More than providing data to support specific changes into the ongoing linearization, these results highlight the need for either a new chapter entitled Hypersensitivity/Allergic Disorders as in SNOMED CT or a high level structure in the Immunology chapter in order to make classification more appropriate and usable.
Expression of a manganese peroxidase isozyme 2 transgene in the ethanologenic white rot fungus Phlebia sp. strain MG-60
Authors: Yamasaki Yumi , Yamaguchi Megumi , Yamagishi Kenji , Hirai Hirofumi , Kondo Ryuichiro , Kamei Ichiro , Meguro Sadatoshi
Published: November 2014

Background

The white-rot fungus Phlebia sp. strain MG-60 was proposed as a candidate for integrated fungal fermentation process (IFFP), which unifies aerobic delignification and semi-aerobic consolidated biological processing by a single microorganism based on its ability to efficiently degrade lignin and ferment the sugars from cellulose. To improve IFFP, the development of a molecular breeding method for strain MG-60 is necessary. The purpose of this study is to establish the transformation method for the strain MG-60 and to obtain the over-expressing transformants of lignin-degrading enzyme, manganese peroxidase.

Findings

In the present study, the expression vector regulated by Phlebia brevispora glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase promoter and terminator was constructed. A polyethylene glycol transformation method for the ethanol-fermenting white-rot fungus Phlebia sp. MG-60 was established with high transformation efficiency, and the manganese peroxidase isozyme 2 gene (MGmnp2) transformants were obtained, showing higher MnP activity than control transformants. MGmnp2 transformants showed higher selective lignin degradation on Quercus wood powder.

Conclusions

This first report of MG-60 transformation provides a useful methodology for widely accessible to interested researches. These results indicate the possibility of metabolic engineering of strain MG-60 for improving IFFP.
Population, diversity and characteristics of cellulolytic microorganisms from the Indo-Burma Biodiversity hotspot
Authors: Goyari Sailendra , Devi Shantibala S , Kalita Mohan C , Talukdar Narayan C
Published: November 2014

Forest ecosystem harbour a large number of biotic components where cellulolytic microorganisms participate actively in the biotransformation of dead and decaying organic matter and soil nutrient cycling. This study explores the aerobic culturable cellulolytic microorganisms in the forest soils of North East India. Soil samples rich in dead and decaying organic matter were collected from eight conserved forests during the season when microbes were found to be most active. Cellulolytic microorganisms were isolated using selective media in which cellulose was the sole carbon source. Population of culturable, aerobic, cellulolytic microorganisms were found to be higher at the incubation temperature that corresponds to the natural ambient temperature of the site of sample collection. Bacterial population was higher in all of the sites than fungal population. Bacterial population ranged from 1.91 × 105 to 3.35 × 106 CFU g-1 dry soil while actinomycetes and fungal population ranged from 9.13 × 102 to 3.46 × 104 CFU g-1 dry soil and 9.36 × 102 to 4.31 × 104 CFU g-1 dry soil, respectively. It was observed that though many isolates showed activity on the CMC plate assay, very few isolates showed significant filter paper activity. Three cellulolytic fungal isolates showing high FPase activity were characterised, identified and submitted to GenBank as Talaromyces verruculosus SGMNPf3 (KC937053), Trichoderma gamsii SGSPf7 (KC937055) and Trichoderma atroviride SGBMf4 (KC937054).
Genes controlling root development in rice
Authors: Mai Chung D , Phung Nhung TP , To Huong TM , Gonin Mathieu , Hoang Giang T , Nguyen Khanh L , Do Vinh N , Courtois Brigitte , Gantet Pascal
Published: November 2014

In this review, we report on the recent developments made using both genetics and functional genomics approaches in the discovery of genes controlling root development in rice. QTL detection in classical biparental mapping populations initially enabled the identification of a very large number of large chromosomal segments carrying root genes. Two segments with large effects have been positionally cloned, allowing the identification of two major genes. One of these genes conferred a tolerance to low phosphate content in soil, while the other conferred a tolerance to drought by controlling root gravitropism, resulting in root system expansion deep in the soil. Findings based on the higher-resolution QTL detection offered by the development of association mapping are discussed. In parallel with genetics approaches, efforts have been made to screen mutant libraries for lines presenting alterations in root development, allowing for the identification of several genes that control different steps of root development, such as crown root and lateral root initiation and emergence, meristem patterning, and the control of root growth. Some of these genes are closely phylogenetically related toArabidopsisgenes involved in the control of lateral root initiation. This close relationship stresses the conservation among plant species of an auxin responsive core gene regulatory network involved in the control of post-embryonic root initiation. In addition, we report on several genetic regulatory pathways that have been described only in rice. The complementarities and the expected convergence of the direct and reverse genetic approaches used to decipher the genetic determinants of root development in rice are discussed in regards to the high diversity characterizing this species and to the adaptations of rice root system architecture to different edaphic environments.
Virus-host interactomics: new insights and opportunities for antiviral drug discovery
Authors: de Chassey Benoît , Meyniel-Schicklin Laurène , Vonderscher Jacky , André Patrice , Lotteau Vincent
Published: November 2014

The current therapeutic arsenal against viral infections remains limited, with often poor efficacy and incomplete coverage, and appears inadequate to face the emergence of drug resistance. Our understanding of viral biology and pathophysiology and our ability to develop a more effective antiviral arsenal would greatly benefit from a more comprehensive picture of the events that lead to viral replication and associated symptoms. Towards this goal, the construction of virus-host interactomes is instrumental, mainly relying on the assumption that a viral infection at the cellular level can be viewed as a number of perturbations introduced into the host protein network when viral proteins make new connections and disrupt existing ones. Here, we review advances in interactomic approaches for viral infections, focusing on high-throughput screening (HTS) technologies and on the generation of high-quality datasets. We show how these are already beginning to offer intriguing perspectives in terms of virus-host cell biology and the control of cellular functions, and we conclude by offering a summary of the current situation regarding the potential development of host-oriented antiviral therapeutics.
New results for perturbed second-order impulsive differential equation on the half-line
Authors: Zhao Yulin , Wang Xuebin , Liu Xingguo
Published: November 2014

By using a variational method and some critical points theorems, we establish some results on the multiplicity of solutions for second-order impulsive differential equation depending on two real parameters on the half-line. In addition, two examples to illustrate our results are given.
Presence of phthalate derivatives in the essential oils of a medicinal plant Achillea tenuifolia
Authors: Manayi Azadeh , Kurepaz-mahmoodabadi Mahdieh , Gohari Ahmad R , Ajani Yousef , Saeidnia Soodabeh
Published: November 2014

Background

Phthalate, esters of phthalic acid, are mainly applied as plasticizers and cause several human health and environment hazards. The essential oils of Achillea species have attracted a great concern, since several biological activities have been reported from varieties of these medicinal species. On the other side, due to the problems regarding the waste disposal in developing countries, phthalate derivatives can easily release from waste disposal to the water and soil resulting in probable absorption and accumulation by medicinal and dietary plants. As a matter of fact, although the toxicity of phthalate derivatives in human is well-known, food crops and medicinal plants have been exposing to phthalates that can be detected in their extracts and essential oils. Achillea tenuifolia (Compositea) is one of these herbaceous plants with traditional applications which widely growing in Iran.

Finding

The plant root was subjected to hydro-distillation for 4 h using Clevenger type apparatus to obtain its essential oil before and after acid treatment. Both of the hydro-distilled essential oils were analysed by GC-MS method resulted in recognition of their constituent. Phthalate contamination as (1, 2-benzenedicarboxylic acid, bis (2-methylpropyl) ester (5.4%) and phthalic acid (4.5%), were identified in the first and second extracted oils, respectively.

Conclusion

As a warning, due to the potential role of phthalates to cause reproductive toxicity, disturb of endocrine system and causing cancers, medicinal plants have to be considered through quality control for detection of these compounds.
Mindfulness group therapy in primary care patients with depression, anxiety and stress and adjustment disorders: Randomised controlled trial
Authors: Sundquist Jan , Lilja Åsa , Palmér Karolina , Memon Ashfaque A. , Wang Xiao , Johansson Leena Maria , Sundquist Kristina
Published: November 2014

Background

Individual-based cognitive–behavioural therapy (CBT) is in short supply and expensive.

Aims

The aim of this randomised controlled trial (RCT) was to compare mindfulness-based group therapy with treatment as usual (primarily individual-based CBT) in primary care patients with depressive, anxiety or stress and adjustment disorders.

Method

This 8-week RCT (ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT01476371) was conducted during spring 2012 at 16 general practices in Southern Sweden. Eligible patients (aged 20–64 years) scored $10 on the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, $7 on the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale or 13–34 on the Montgomery–åsberg Depression Rating Scale (self-rated version). The power calculations were based on non-inferiority. In total, 215 patients were randomised. Ordinal mixed models were used for the analysis.

Results

For all scales and in both groups, the scores decreased significantly. There were no significant differences between the mindfulness and control groups.

Conclusions

Mindfulness-based group therapy was non-inferior to treatment as usual for patients with depressive, anxiety or stress and adjustment disorders.
ADrosophilaXPD model links cell cycle coordination with neuro-development and suggests links to cancer
Authors: Stettler Karin , Li Xiaoming , Sandrock Björn , Braga-Lagache Sophie , Heller Manfred , Dümbgen Lutz , Suter Beat
Published: November 2014

XPD functions in transcription, DNA repair and in cell cycle control. Mutations in human XPD (also known as ERCC2) mainly cause three clinical phenotypes: xeroderma pigmentosum (XP), Cockayne syndrome (XP/CS) and trichothiodystrophy (TTD), and only XP patients have a high predisposition to developing cancer. Hence, we developed a fly model to obtain novel insights into the defects caused by individual hypomorphic alleles identified in human XP-D patients. This model revealed that the mutations that displayed the greatest in vivo UV sensitivity in Drosophila did not correlate with those that led to tumor formation in humans. Immunoprecipitations followed by targeted quantitative MS/MS analysis showed how different xpd mutations affected the formation or stability of different transcription factor IIH (TFIIH) subcomplexes. The XP mutants most clearly linked to high cancer risk, Xpd R683W and R601L, showed a reduced interaction with the core TFIIH and also an abnormal interaction with the Cdk-activating kinase (CAK) complex. Interestingly, these two XP alleles additionally displayed high levels of chromatin loss and free centrosomes during the rapid nuclear division phase of the Drosophila embryo. Finally, the xpd mutations showing defects in the coordination of cell cycle timing during the Drosophila embryonic divisions correlated with those human mutations that cause the neurodevelopmental abnormalities and developmental growth defects observed in XP/CS and TTD patients.
Nuclear localized FAM21 participates in NF-κB-dependent gene regulation in pancreatic cancer cells
Authors: Deng Zhi-Hui , Gomez Timothy S. , Osborne Douglas G. , Phillips-Krawczak Christine A. , Zhang Jin-San , Billadeau Daniel D.
Published: November 2014

The pentameric WASH complex is best known for its role in regulating receptor trafficking from retromer-rich endosomal subdomains. FAM21 functions to stabilize the WASH complex through its N-terminal head domain and localizes it to endosomes by directly binding the retromer through its extended C-terminal tail. Herein, we used affinity purification combined with mass spectrometry to identify additional FAM21-interacting proteins. Surprisingly, multiple components of the NF-κB pathway were identified, including p50 and p65. We show that FAM21 interacts with these components and regulates NF-κB-dependent gene transcription at the level of p65 chromatin binding. We further demonstrate that FAM21 contains a functional monopartite nuclear localization signal sequence (NLS1) as well as a CRM1/Exportin1-dependent nuclear exporting signal (NES1), both of which work jointly with the N-terminal head domain and C-terminal retromer recruitment domain to regulate FAM21 cytosolic and nuclear subcellular localization. Lastly, our findings indicate that FAM21 depletion sensitizes pancreatic cancer cells to gemcitabine and 5-fluorouracil. Thus, FAM21 not only functions as an integral component of the cytoplasmic WASH complex, but also modulates NF-κB gene transcription in the nucleus.
Application of X-ray Absorption Fine Structure (XAFS) Spectroscopy to Speciation of Lead (Pb) Contaminants in Plastics
Authors: Das Anirban , Takahashi Yoshio , Tanaki Asuka
Published: November 2014

A study using X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) spectroscopy in conjunction with chemical analyses was undertaken to determine the form of lead (Pb) compound(s) used as additives in plastic bags. Comparison of Pb LIII-edge X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) in samples with those of the standards, and XANES simulation studies revealed that spectra of samples were almost identical to that of PbCrO4, and ca. 80% of Pb was present in the form of PbCrO4. These findings were supported by the facts that Cr-XANES spectra of samples resembled that of PbCrO4, and Cr/Pb molar ratios in samples calculated from simulation of XANES agreed reasonably well with those of the chemical data. Results of k3-weighted extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectra of three of the samples showed that they resembled that of the PbCrO4.
New Reactive Liquid-crystalline Poly(aminourethane)s and Their Metal-complexed Family
Authors: Ujiie Seiji , Shimada Genichiro , Nata Masanori
Published: November 2014

New liquid-crystalline poly(aminourethane)s (LCPU(T)) were synthesized by the polyaddition of a mesogenic diol and tolylene-2,4-diisocyanate. The mesogenic diol, containing an azobenzene group, formed a monotropic nematic phase in the narrow temperature region. LCPU(T) clearly exhibited a nematic phase on the heating and cooling processes. The fiber and film of LCPU(T) bended through trans–cis isomerization upon UV irradiation at room temperature. LCPU(T) formed a liquid-crystalline polymer–metal complex exhibiting a smectic A phase.
Rhombohedral Hydroxyapatite with Mesoporous Architecture for pH-Responsive Drug Delivery
Authors: Wang Sha , Guo Zhiguang
Published: November 2014

Mesoporous hydroxyapatite (HAp) rhombs were successfully synthesized by transforming CaCO3 into HAp via an ion-exchange reaction without any surfactants. The obtained HAp rhombs with mesoporous architecture exhibited high drug-loading capability and superior sustained release properties, and the drug release rate increased apparently with the decrease of the pH value of the solution medium, which make it a promising carrier for pH-responsive drug-delivery system.
A Fine Tuning of LCST-type Phase Transition of Poly(ionic liquid)s in Water
Authors: Deguchi Yuki , Kohno Yuki , Ohno Hiroyuki
Published: November 2014

This work reports a study of highly temperature-sensitive lower critical solution temperature phase behavior of fully-ionized polyelectrolytes derived from ionic liquids (PILs). We show that important results are obtained by designing a unique preparation process carried out by blending two PILs with different hydrophobicity in aqueous media without copolymerization or precise control of their molecular weight distribution.
Thinking always allowed
Authors: Nelson Julie
Published: November 2014

When it comes to deciding what research evidence to use in an early years setting, what matters most of all in terms of end result is the actual goal of the research, not who produces it, argues Dr Julie Nelson.
Observing discovery play
Authors: Norman Amanda
Published: November 2014

There are many different ways of approaching observation of children during play. In this article, Dr Amanda Norman explores a therapeutic approach, which is based on her experience of play therapy.
Myanmar and Thailand
Authors: Card Heather
Published: November 2014

Heather Card reflects on her involvement in an early childhood project during which she helped local practitioners re-assess how they think about the importance of play and active exploration.
The swaddling debate
Authors: Day Lin
Published: November 2014

To swaddle or not to swaddle, that is the question. This ancient practice has gone in and out of fashion, even in recent decades, but safer techniques have seen its popularity surge again, but just how safe is it?
The vulnerable child: A conceptual safeguarding case study
Authors: Garrett Helen
Published: November 2014

A conceptual case study was carried out to examine the efficiency of multi-agency working and of the relevant legislative frameworks in safeguarding and protecting vulnerable children in the early years.
Possibilities in patterns
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: November 2014

This is the third in a series of articles that uses practical activities based on the expressive arts, such as music, song and dance, to develop young children's skills in the mathematics area of early learning.
Diagnosis and management of acne vulgaris in aesthetic practice
Authors: Lavers Isabel
Published: November 2014

Acne vulgaris is a common inflammatory skin disorder of the pilosebaceous unit. Although most common among teenagers, acne can also occur in younger patients and can persist into, or develop in, adulthood. Acne presents with a spectrum of non-inflammatory and inflammatory lesions commonly occurring on the face, chest and back. The major goals of acne therapy are the treatment of existing acne lesions, prevention of new lesions, limiting duration of the disorder, and preventing permanent scarring. This article will look at the pathogenesis, clinical features and diagnosis of acne, followed by a discussion of available treatments and aims to encourage aesthetic nurses to include acne diagnosis and management into their portfolio of knowledge and experience, thus effectively incorporating this specialist area of dermatology into their services.
PROMs: putting cosmetic patients at the forefront of evaluation
Authors: Griffiths Catrin
Published: November 2014

Not so long ago, the success of a healthcare procedure was evaluated by the medical staff alone. Catrin Griffiths, Research Associate at the Centre for Appearance Research, describes a way to redress the balance by using patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) to evaluate service outcomes. A range of cosmetic-specific PROMs has been launched and these promise to improve the patient experience
Mesotherapy: an internationally renowned and growing aesthetic treatment in the UK
Authors: Hamida-Pisal Philippe
Published: November 2014

From its French roots, to its European popularity and its rapid spread around the world, Philippe Hamida-Pisal discusses mesotherapy and its many medical and aesthetic indications. What mesotherapy can achieve if applied correctly is discussed, as well as the role of the Society of Mesotherapy of the United Kingdom and what this means for the development of aesthetic nurses
Inovação Aberta: como criar e lucrar com a tecnologia
Authors: De Pinto Míriam Magdala
Published: November 2014

A obra constitui uma contribuição relevante à área de gestão da inovação ao propor que ela deixe de apoiar-se exclusivamente na ideia de que a inovação para ter sucesso precisa ser desenvolvida totalmente dentro das organizações, ou seja, um modelo de inovação fechada, e expanda-se para incluir outro modelo no qual o sucesso da inovação depende do uso pelas organizações de ideias internas e externas e de caminhos diversificados até o mercado, ou seja, um modelo de inovação aberta.
Guns, Germs and Steel
Authors: Rauen André Tortato
Published: November 2014

Este livro é um marco, não tanto pelo ineditismo da análise, mas por sua capacidade explicativa e pela força dos argumentos. Trata-se de uma obra extensa, abrangente e de rico vocabulário. Não é um livro de cabeceira, nem tão pouco um trabalho acadêmico enfadonho. É ao mesmo tempo, uma obra de popularização da ciência e de avanço científico.
Hacia el ensamblaje de una Ciudad Inteligente en México: la utopia de Ciudad Maderas
Authors: Autran Rodrigo Ramirez
Published: November 2014

Los proyectos de ciudades inteligentes son una realidad en todo el mundo. El objetivo de este artículo es presentar los resultados preliminares del proyecto “Ensamblando ciudades inteligentes: el caso del iQ Smart City, Ciudad Maderas”. Esta fue una investigación antropológica, solicitada por un clúster de tecnologías de la información, que tiene la intención de impulsar una ciudad inteligente en la región central de México. El estudio tuvo como objetivo principal generar información y conocimiento de utilidad para definir la vocación de esta ciudad. La metodología utilizada en la recolección de datos fue primordialmente cualitativa. Aquí se expondrán los hallazgos más importantes en relación a la posible vocación que puede desarrollar la ciudad inteligente en construcción: una ciudad sustentable con ciudadanos integrados en red.
Estatística Multivariada e Tipologia: consumindo serviços de estética
Authors: Cheung Thelma Lucchese , Alves Camila de Souza , Sauer Leandro
Published: November 2014

Com o objetivo principal de compreender as formas de um grupo específico perceber o corpo e as decisões pela sua modificação, por meio de serviços de estética corporal, 215 acadêmicas de uma universidade pública brasileira foram entrevistadas. Perguntas abertas levantaram as principais representações do corpo feminino. As definições do corpo feio e do corpo belo explicaram as relações entre o grupo e o tamanho de seu próprio corpo, os dilemas quanto aos padrões de beleza atuais, a dificuldade de sentir-se satisfeita e a busca por serviços de estéticas transformadores de sua identidade social. A adoção de técnicas estatísticas multivariadas para o tratamento dos dados coletados em campo permitiu a correlação de variáveis qualitativas e quantitativas, possibilitando a identificação dos principais tipos de comportamentos declarados de consumo de serviços de estética e das representações sociais do corpo.
Association of Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Infection with Henoch-Schonlein Purpura
Authors: Yiallouros P. , Moustaki M. , Voutsioti A. , Sharifi F. , Karpathios Themistocles
Published: November 2014

We present a  child with Henoch-Schonlein purpura and Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection, an association that was rarely described in  the literature. The infection was confirmed serologically and by using PCR.
Painful Vaso-occlusive Crisis as a Prodromal Phase of Acute Chest Syndrome. Is Only One Chest X-ray Enough? A Case Report
Authors: Neocleous Charalambos , Spanou C. , Adramerina A. , Spyrou G. , Tzanetis F.
Published: November 2014

The predominant pathophysiological feature of homozygous sickle cell anemia (SCA) is the vaso-occlusion. Vaso-occlusion can be associated with painful crises, which are the primary reason for those patients to seek medical care. Vaso-occlusion is responsible for the acute chest syndrome (ACS) with large morbidity and mortality or more rarely (and especially in adults) for priapism and acute neurological events (strokes). A 10-year-old boy with homozygous SCA was admitted to the Pediatric Emergencies with painful vaso-occlusive crisis and fever. Initially he had normal chest X-ray but, after 24-hour-hospitalization, he developed  ACS with new chest X-ray findings. He was treated with broad spectrum antibiotics, blood transfusions and bronchodilators and after a  six-day treatment, he was significantly improved. The patient was discharged 13 days later with no other therapy at home. The possibility of  ACS development should be still considered, even when a  known patient with SCA presents a  painful vaso-occlusive crisis with an initial normal chest X-ray. Therefore, repeated clinical examination is required and possible changes in  the clinical status could indicate the necessity of a  new radiographic examination. In  this way, early  ACS could be recognized and the catastrophic consequences due to this syndrome could be avoided.