bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic and developmental analysis of differences in eye and face morphology between Drosophila simulans and Drosophila mauritiana
Authors: Arif Saad , Hilbrant Maarten , Hopfen Corinna , Almudi Isabel , Nunes Maria D. S. , Posnien Nico , Kuncheria Linta , Tanaka Kentaro , Mitteroecker Philipp , Schlötterer Christian , McGregor Alistair P.
Published: May 2013

Eye and head morphology vary considerably among insects and even between closely related species of Drosophila. Species of the D. melanogaster subgroup, and other Drosophila species, exhibit a negative correlation between eye size and face width (FW); for example, D. mauritiana generally has bigger eyes composed of larger ommatidia and conversely a narrower face than its sibling species. To better understand the evolution of eye and head morphology, we investigated the genetic and developmental basis of differences in eye size and FW between male D. mauritiana and D. simulans. QTL mapping of eye size and FW showed that the major loci responsible for the interspecific variation in these traits are localized to different genomic regions. Introgression of the largest effect QTL underlying the difference in eye size resulted in flies with larger eyes but no significant difference in FW. Moreover, introgression of a QTL region on the third chromosome that contributes to the FW difference between these species affected FW, but not eye size. We also observed that this difference in FW is detectable earlier in the development of the eye‐antennal disc than the difference in the size of the retinal field. Our results suggest that different loci that act at different developmental stages underlie changes in eye size and FW. Therefore, while there is a negative correlation between these traits in Drosophila, we show genetically that they also have the potential to evolve independently and this may help to explain the evolution of these traits in other insects.
Repetition priming effects dissociate between miniature eye movements and induced gamma‐band responses in the human electroencephalogram
Authors: Hassler Uwe , Friese Uwe , Martens Ulla , Trujillo‐Barreto Nelson , Gruber Thomas
Published: May 2013

The role of induced gamma‐band responses (iGBRs) in the human electroencephalogram (EEG) is a controversial topic. On the one hand, iGBRs have been associated with neuronal activity reflecting the (re‐)activation of cortical object representations. On the other hand, it was shown that miniature saccades (MSs) lead to high‐frequency artifacts in the EEG that can mimic cortical iGBRs. We recorded EEG and eye movements simultaneously while participants were engaged in a combined repetition priming and object recognition experiment. MS rates were mainly modulated by object familiarity in a time window from 100 to 300 ms after stimulus onset. In contrast, artifact‐corrected iGBRs were sensitive to object repetition and object familiarity in a prolonged time window. EEG source analyses revealed that stimulus repetitions modulated iGBRs in temporal and occipital cortex regions while familiarity was associated with activity in parieto‐occipital regions. These results are in line with neuroimaging studies employing functional magnetic resonance imaging or magnetoencephalography. We conclude that MSs reflect early mechanisms of visual perception while iGBRs mirror the activation of cortical networks representing a perceived object.
Taking Up the Challenge of Corporate Branding: An Integrative Framework
Authors: De Roeck Kenneth , Maon François , Lejeune Christophe
Published: May 2013

This study develops an integrative framework that refines and extends current understanding of corporate branding by highlighting its underlying processes and thereby offering guidance to companies on developing their corporate brand. The proposed integrative framework features a reassessment of the critical position of organizational identity in corporate branding. It also explicitly highlights the central role of an organization's construed and intended images in the design and implementation of a credible and successful corporate brand proposition that can foster stakeholders' organizational identification with and support of the organization. To complement our conceptual work and its theoretical propositions, we present an illustrative case study that contextualizes our framework and examines corporate branding practices at the furniture retailer IKEA and the challenges it faces. As a whole, this study helps unravel the key processes at play in corporate branding practices within a more manageable framework.
Ultrasound‐guided biopsy of the cricoarytenoideus lateralis muscle: Technique and safety in horses
Authors: O'Neill H. D. , Ballegeer E. A. , De Feijter‐Rupp H. L. , Stick J. A. , Derksen F. J. , Robinson N. E.
Published: May 2013

Reasons for performing study

Current diagnosis of recurrent laryngeal neuropathy (RLN) depends upon disease recognition in the clinically affected horse. Biopsy of the intrinsic laryngeal muscles may provide a method to identify the changes in fibre‐type composition that occur in RLN before clinical signs become apparent.

Objective

To develop an ultrasound‐guided biopsy technique of the left cricoarytenoideus lateralis muscle (CALM) and evaluate its efficacy and safety in vivo.

Study design

A longitudinal descriptive study.

Methods

Six standing horses underwent ultrasound‐guided biopsy of the left CALM. Frozen muscle cores were obtained with a breast biopsy tool. Serial endoscopic, ultrasonographic and physical examinations before and for 8 weeks after the biopsy were assessed for iatrogenic trauma. Histologies of representative muscle core cross‐sections were analysed for the total number of muscle fibres obtained with each biopsy.

Results

There were no immediate complications of the procedure and the left CALM was harvested in all instances. Biopsy samples had an average weight of 0.043 g (range = 0.023–0.077 g) and contained 3418 fibres in cross‐section (range = 711–7143). Laryngeal endoscopic grade did not change significantly between prebiopsy and the end of the 8 week follow‐up. The left CALM had significantly greater echogenicity than the right throughout the study (P<0.001), but there was no difference between the prebiopsy CALM echogenicity and that at completion of the study.

Conclusions

Ultrasound‐guided biopsy of the left CALM is safe and well tolerated, providing a minimally invasive method to obtain muscle from healthy horses. This new technique may be applicable in research and clinical settings.
Influence of Multiple Age Identities on Social Comparison, Body Satisfaction, and Appearance Self‐Discrepancy for Women across the Life Span
Authors: Yu Ui‐Jeen , Kozar Joy M. , Damhorst Mary Lynn
Published: May 2013

The purpose of this study was to examine how multiple age identities—chronological, ideal, and feel ages—influence social comparison with media images, body satisfaction, and appearance self‐discrepancy. Building on the possible selves theory that a closer approximation between chronological age and subjective ages—ideal age and feel age—occurs over time, a conceptual model was tested to identify individual variations of age identities and self‐perceptions to body image across the life span. A convenience sample of 279 women between the ages of 30 and 80 years completed the survey at several women's philanthropic and social organizations. Findings indicated that ideal age, rather than chronological age and feel age, played a more important role in influencing participants' perceptions of body and social comparison as their age identities changed. The findings highlight the significance of multiple age identities in predicting social comparison behavior and body image among women across the life span.
MutS stimulates the endonuclease activity of MutL in an ATP‐hydrolysis‐dependent manner
Authors: Shimada Atsuhiro , Kawasoe Yoshitaka , Hata Yoshito , Takahashi Tatsuro S. , Masui Ryoji , Kuramitsu Seiki , Fukui Kenji
Published: May 2013

In the initial steps of DNA mismatch repair, MutS recognizes a mismatched base and recruits the latent endonuclease MutL onto the mismatch‐containing DNA in concert with other proteins. MutL then cleaves the error‐containing strand to introduce an entry point for the downstream excision reaction. Because MutL has no intrinsic ability to recognize a mismatch and discriminate between newly synthesized and template strands, the endonuclease activity of MutL is strictly regulated by ATP‐binding in order to avoid nonspecific degradation of the genomic DNA. However, the activation mechanism for its endonuclease activity remains unclear. In this study, we found that the coexistence of a mismatch, ATP and MutS unlocks the ATP‐binding‐dependent suppression of MutL endonuclease activity. Interestingly, ATPase‐deficient mutants of MutS were unable to activate MutL. Furthermore, wild‐type MutS activated ATPase‐deficient mutants of MutL less efficiently than wild‐type MutL. We concluded that ATP hydrolysis by MutS and MutL is involved in the mismatch‐dependent activation of MutL endonuclease activity.
Intracellular distribution of human SIRT7 and mapping of the nuclear/nucleolar localization signal
Authors: Kiran Shashi , Chatterjee Nirupama , Singh Sapna , Kaul Sunil C. , Wadhwa Renu , Ramakrishna Gayatri
Published: May 2013

Sirtuins belong to a class of NAD‐dependent deacetylases, and include seven distinct isoforms, of which SIRT7 is the least studied member. In the present study, the subcellular expression of SIRT7 in primary fibroblasts undergoing senescence was evaluated by immunocytochemistry and immunoblot assay. Expression of nucleolar SIRT7 in young fibroblast was very prominent, decreased in pre‐senescent cells, and became undetectable in the senescent cells. Interestingly, we observed previously unreported staining for cytoplasmic SIRT7 in fibroblasts, and report the existence of a steady‐state level of SIRT7 in cytoplasm. Selective localization of the high‐molecular‐mass (47.5 kDa) SIRT7 in the cytoplasmic fraction and the low‐molecular‐mass (45 kDa) SIRT7 in the nuclear fraction was observed in the immunoblot analysis of various cell types. The specificity of the N‐terminal antibodies for detection of cytoplasmic SIRT7 was confirmed by RNAi and peptide competition assays. The two forms of SIRT7 showed reciprocal expression following serum starvation, nocodazole and okadaic acid treatments, and also during senescence. Using a combination of deletion constructs and site‐directed mutagenesis, we defined the role of two distinct SIRT7 sequences in the N‐terminal region (amino acids 61–76, LQGRSRRREGLKRRQE) and the C‐terminal region (amino acids 392–400, KRTKRKKVT) for nuclear and nucleolar import, respectively. In conclusion, we report for the first time the existence of a cytoplasmic pool of SIRT7 in addition to its well‐known nucleolar form, identify distinct localization signals for its nuclear/nucleolar targeting, and describe an association between loss of nucleolar SIRT7 and replicative senescence.
Genome‐wide association mapping of natural variation in odour‐guided behaviour in Drosophila
Authors: Brown E. B. , Layne J. E. , Zhu C. , Jegga A. G. , Rollmann S. M.
Published: May 2013

A defining goal in the field of behavioural genetics is to identify the key genes or genetic networks that shape behaviour. A corollary to this goal is the goal of identifying genetic variants that are responsible for variation in the behaviour. These goals are achieved by measuring behavioural responses to controlled stimuli, in the present case the responses of Drosophila melanogaster to olfactory stimuli. We used a high‐throughput behavioural assay system to test a panel of 157 Drosophila inbred lines derived from a natural population for both temporal and spatial dynamics of odour‐guided behaviour. We observed significant variation in response to the odourant 2,3‐butanedione, a volatile compound present in fermenting fruit. The recent whole genome sequencing of these inbred lines allowed us to then perform genome‐wide association analyses in order to identify genetic polymorphisms underlying variation in responses. These analyses revealed numerous single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with variation in responses. Among the candidate genes identified were both novel and previously identified olfaction‐related genes. Further, gene network analyses suggest that genes influencing variation in odour‐guided behaviour are enriched for functions involving neural processing and that these genes form a pleiotropic interaction network. We examined several of these candidate genes that were highly connected in the protein‐ and genetic interaction networks using RNA interference. Our results showed that subtle changes influencing nervous system function can result in marked differences in behaviour.
Assessing the impact of within crop heterogeneity (‘patchiness’) in young Miscanthus × giganteus fields on economic feasibility and soil carbon sequestration
Authors: Zimmermann Jesko , Styles David , Hastings Astley , Dauber Jens , Jones Michael B
Published: May 2013

In Ireland, Miscanthus × giganteus has the potential to become a major feedstock for bioenergy production. However, under current climatic conditions, Ireland is situated on the margin of the geographical range where Miscanthus production is economically feasible. It is therefore important to optimize the yield and other ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration delivered by the crop. A survey of commercial Miscanthus fields showed a large number of areas with no Miscanthus crop cover. These patches can potentially lead to reduced crop yields and soil carbon sequestration and have a significant negative impact on the economic viability of the crop. The aim of this research is to assess patchiness on a field scale and to analyse the impacts on crop yield and soil carbon sequestration. Analysis of aerial photography images was carried out on six commercial Miscanthus plantations in south east Ireland. The analysis showed an average of 372.5 patches per hectare, covering an average of 13.7% of the field area. Using net present value models and a financial balance approach it was shown that patchiness has a significant impact on payback time for initial investments and might reduce gross margins by more than 50%. Total and Miscanthus‐derived soil organic carbon was measured in open patches and adjacent plots of high crop density showing significantly lower Miscanthus‐derived carbon stocks in open patches compared to high crop‐density patches (0.47Mg C ha−1 ± 0.42 SD and 0.91Mg C ha−1 ± 0.55 SD). Using geographic information system (GIS) it was shown that on a field scale Miscanthus‐derived carbon stocks were reduced by 7.38% ± 7.25 SD. However, total soil organic carbon stocks were not significantly different between open patches and high crop density plots indicating no impact on the overall carbon sequestration on a field scale over 3–4 years since establishment for these Miscanthus sites.
Regional Knowledge Performance in Europe
Authors: Foddi Marta , Usai Stefano
Published: May 2013

Europe's 2020 strategy and the consequent initiative “Innovation Union” call for a particular attention to the territorial dimension of innovation and knowledge creation. To this end, this paper investigates the nature of knowledge production and diffusion among regions in 29 European Union (EU) countries and tries to assess its effectiveness. Data envelopment analysis is thus applied to assess how efficiently European regions use internal and external inputs for the production of new knowledge and ideas. The analysis produces a ranking of the innovative performance of EU regions for two points in time: the beginning of the current century and the second part of this decade. This ranking is then evaluated through the Malmquist productivity index in order to assess the relative importance of its main components. The Data envelopment analysis provides further evidence of a dualistic (centre versus periphery) pattern in the regional innovation activities, with the most efficient territories located in the most central or economically strategic areas of the continent. The application of the Malmquist productivity index shows that both the magnitude and intrinsic features of the productivity dynamics are extremely differentiated across regions. Again, we observe important differences between the core and periphery of Europe and, more specifically, between the rich and industrialized countries that form the so‐called “Old Europe” and the relatively poorer ones that have entered the EU quite recently.
Do Labour Mobility and Technological Collaborations Foster Geographical Knowledge Diffusion? The Case of European Regions
Authors: Miguélez Ernest , Moreno Rosina
Published: May 2013

The goal of this paper is twofold. First, we aim to assess the role played by inventors' cross‐regional mobility and collaborations in fostering knowledge diffusion across regions and subsequent innovation. Second, we intend to evaluate the feasibility of using mobility and co‐patenting information to build cross‐regional interaction matrices to be used within the spatial econometrics toolbox. To do so, we depart from a knowledge production function where regional innovation intensity is a function not only of the own regional innovation inputs but also external accessible knowledge stocks gained through interregional interactions. Differently from much of the previous literature, cross‐section gravity models of mobility and co‐patents are estimated to use the fitted values to build our “spatial” weights matrices, which characterize the intensity of knowledge interactions across a panel of 269 regions covering most European countries over 6 years.
Case of idiopathic portal hypertension complicated with autoimmune hepatitis
Authors: Abe Kazumichi , Takahashi Atsushi , Sato Yu , Okai Ken , Katsushima Fumiko , Monoe Kyoko , Kanno Yukiko , Saito Hironobu , Ohira Hiromasa
Published: May 2013

We report a case of idiopathic portal hypertension (IPH) complicated with autoimmune hepatitis. A 60‐year‐old woman was admitted to our hospital with esophageal and gastric varices in February 2010. Abdominal ultrasonography and computed tomography showed splenomegaly and collateral veins without evidence of liver cirrhosis. Laboratory examinations and liver biopsy indicated that the esophageal and gastric varices were caused by IPH. She underwent endoscopic injection sclerotherapy and partial splenic embolization. Two years after these therapies, laboratory examinations showed liver dysfunction with elevated levels of aspartate aminotransferase (180 IU/L), alanine aminotransferase (190 IU/L), γ‐glutamyl transpeptidase (159 IU/L) and immunoglobulin G (2609 mg/dL). The titer of antinuclear antibodies was 1:320 and its pattern was homogeneous and speckled. Histological examination revealed plasma cell/lymphocyte infiltration and interface hepatitis in the portal tract. Based on these findings, a diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis accompanied by IPH was made. After treatment with prednisolone (20 mg/day), liver functions were normalized immediately. Overlapping of IPH and AIH is extremely rare, but the present case is interesting considering the etiology of IPH because an autoimmune mechanism is thought to be involved in the pathogenesis of IPH.
Early venous return in hepatic angiomyolipoma due to an intratumoral structure resembling an arteriovenous fistula
Authors: Iwao Yasuhito , Ojima Hidenori , Onaya Hiroaki , Sakamoto Yoshihiro , Kishi Yoji , Nara Satoshi , Esaki Minoru , Mizuguchi Yasunori , Ushigome Masahiko , Asahina Daisuke , Hiraoka Nobuyoshi , Shimada Kazuaki , Kosuge Tomoo , Kanai Yae
Published: May 2013

Early venous return (EVR) is an important radiological feature of hepatic angiomyolipoma (HAML) that can aid in differential diagnosis, but the pathogenic mechanisms of EVR have yet to be elucidated. We present the first HAML case for which a probable mechanism for EVR is described. The patient was a 46‐year‐old woman, who had a growing 6‐cm tumor with EVR in segment 3 of the liver as revealed by dynamic contrast‐enhanced computed tomography. Left hepatic lobectomy was performed to prevent tumor rupture. Histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses of the excised tumor indicated HAML. Successive microsections of the tumor were stained with hematoxylin–eosin and Victoria blue to visualize the vascular structure within and around the tumor. These analyses led to three major findings. First, many well‐defined thick‐walled vessels, such as arteries, were found entering the tumor. Second, many thick‐walled vessels within the tumor were connected directly to thin‐walled vessels, resembling arteriovenous fistulae. Finally, thin‐walled intratumoral vessels were connected directly to the hepatic vein. These histological findings suggested that the rich arterial flow into the tumor was being rapidly drained into the hepatic vein through intratumoral arteriovenous connections. We also detected these same anomalous circulatory pathways in tissue sections from three of four additional HAML cases with EVR. Aberrant arteriovenous fistulae within the tumor may account for many cases of EVR in HAML patients.
Mammary analogue secretory carcinoma of salivary glands is a lipid‐rich tumour, and adipophilin can be valuable in its identification
Authors: Mariano Fernanda Viviane , dos Santos Harim Tavares , Azañero Wilson Delgado , da Cunha Isabela Werneck , Coutinho‐Camilo Claudia Malheiros , de Almeida Oslei Paes , Kowalski Luiz Paulo , Altemani Albina
Published: May 2013

Aims

Mammary analogue secretory carcinoma (MASC) of salivary glands shows morphological similarities to milk‐secreting mammary epithelial cells. The aim of this study was to analyse the immunohistochemical expression of adipophilin (a component of milk lipid globule membranes) and of proteins related to secretory mechanisms (STAT5a and mammaglobin) in MASC and other salivary tumours.

Methods and results

Ten cases of MASC (all with ETV6 translocation) and 83 other salivary carcinomas were studied. In all MASC cases, adipophilin stained numerous large lipid droplets. These droplets were minute in other salivary carcinomas, except for sebaceous carcinoma. Overexpression of STAT5a was detected in all MASC cases, but only occasionally in other carcinomas. Mammaglobin expression occurred frequently in MASC (70% of cases), whereas, in other carcinomas, it was uncommon and limited. Only MASC showed cytoplasmic reactivity for p63, particularly in papillary–cystic areas. Positivity for S100, vimentin and high molecular weight keratin was observed in 100% of MASC cases.

Conclusions

MASC is a lipid‐rich tumour containing large lipid droplets covered by adipophilin. This finding can be included among its defining immunohistochemical features, and possibly represents lactation‐like secretory differentiation. Strong expression of STAT5a and cytoplasmic p63 in MASC reinforces this hypothesis.
Combining verbal analysis protocol and wireless audiovisual observation to examine consumers' supermarket shopping behaviour
Authors: Saarela Anna‐Maria , Kantanen Teuvo T. , Lapveteläinen Anja T. , Mykkänen Hannu M. , Karppinen Hannu A. , Rissanen Riitta L.
Published: May 2013

The study investigates the benefits of using a verbal analysis protocol combined with wireless audiovisual observation technology to collect information about consumer behaviour in real‐life environments. A sample of consumers (n = 36) were given a task to select food products in 11 different categories in a supermarket. Combining methods enabled simultaneous collection of multiple forms of qualitative and quantitative data by recording data simultaneously from different perspectives: the consumer's visual range; the wider shopping environment, to provide context; the consumer's verbalizations. Qualitative data on extrinsic and intrinsic factors that affect decision making and quantitative data on product selection time were taken as an example of rich and real‐time data obtained using the combined methods. Audiovisual material was analysed by Usability Test Software 2.0, verbal analysis data were sorted by a database programme and quantitative data were processed using SPSS 17.0. The study design provided sensitive verification of the nature of consumer interaction with the shopping environment: e.g. during the product selection time (average 23 ± 10 s/product), the interaction with the environment varied between individuals and among products selected. The approach represents a useful technique to enable the value of consumer input to direct innovation in consumer‐oriented product development. It also offers new perspectives to consumers and authorities and related organizations to understand shopping behaviour and the role of critical factors behind the food choices at the supermarket.
Practical conditions for Home and Consumer Studies in Swedish compulsory education: a survey study
Authors: Lindblom Cecilia , Arreman Inger Erixon , Hörnell Agneta
Published: May 2013

The aim of the study was to map the field of internal and external conditions that Swedish Home and Consumer Studies teachers and pupils have contend with. A questionnaire was constructed and delivered online in November 2010. It contained 27 question covering teacher qualification, quality of premises and equipment, lesson time and collaboration, and the use of national syllabi. A total of 385 persons across the country answered the questionnaire; about 21% of those teaching Home and Consumer Studies in Swedish compulsory school during the school year 2009–2010. These respondents taught in a total of 392 compulsory schools, which equalled about 22% of the schools teaching grades 7–9 in Sweden. Almost a quarter (23%) of the teachers lacked formal training for Home and Consumer Studies. Respondents without an appropriate degree qualification included those trained as nursery school teachers, dietitians and civil engineers. As regards classrooms, while 88% of respondents reported access to fully equipped kitchens with stoves, sinks and work surfaces, 5% used regular classrooms and the remainder were obliged to come up with alternative solutions, such as using portable kitchens in regular classrooms or conducting their lessons in the school restaurant. This study raises many questions about the quality of Home and Consumer Studies provision in a number of schools. The local deficiencies in the nationally decided frame factors for Home and Consumer Studies found by the present study gives us reason to doubt that all pupils achieve the overall learning goals of ‘knowing in practice’ and making informed choices utilizing environmental, economic and health perspectives. This might affect the health and economy of the individuals in the long run, with implications for the national economy and public health. On the basis of these findings, we therefore recommend that current conditions for Home and Consumer Studies and how the subject should operate in schools become a focus for national debate.
A comparison study of the impact of boiling and high pressure steaming on the stability of soybean trypsin inhibitor
Authors: Shen Jian‐Dong , Cai Qiu‐Feng , Liu Guang‐Ming , Zhang Ling , Zhang Ling‐Jing , Cao Min‐Jie
Published: May 2013

The aim of the study is to compare the effect of boiling and high pressure steaming (HPS) on the degradation, inhibitory activity reduction and gastric digestibility of soybean trypsin inhibitor (STI). Thermal stability analysis showed that HPS treatment was effective in eliminating the inhibitory activity of STI than boiling. SDS‐PAGE and Western blot analysis indicated that boiling has less impact on the gastric digestibility of STI than HPS. More importantly, boiling‐pretreated STI revealed high inhibitory activity against trypsin even after digestion by pepsin in simulated gastric fluid (SGF), while HPS treatment was more effective. SDS‐PAGE analysis further verified that after boiling, STI still revealed strong binding ability to trypsin, while STI could be completely degraded by trypsin after HPS treatment for 30 min.
Screening culinary herbs for antioxidant and α‐glucosidase inhibitory activities
Authors: Kee Kai Tze , Koh Marilyn , Oong Li Xuan , Ng Ken
Published: May 2013

Twelve commonly consumed culinary herbs were assessed for their potential effect in mitigating oxidative stress and postprandial hyperglycaemia: River Mint, Vietnamese Mint, Fish Mint, Spearmint, Sweet Basil, Thai Basil, Coriander, Lemon Verbena, Vietnamese Perilla, Rice Patty, Sawtooth and Rosemary. The radical scavenging and reducing antioxidant activity of the herbs were quite variable ranging from 31–652 mg Trolox Equivalent to 35–512 mg Ferrous Equivalent per gram dried leaves, respectively. The herbs were largely inactive against pancreatic α‐amylase, but showed strong inhibitions against yeast α‐glucosidase at 100 μg Gallic Acid Equivalent (GAE) per millilitre. Vietnamese Mint is the most potent herbs with the concentration required for 50% inhibition of activity of 6.9 μg Dried Leaves per millilitre. In addition, Vietnamese Mint was the only herb that produced significant inhibition of rat intestinal α‐glucosidases, reducing activity to 29.6% at 100 μg GAE mL−1 compared with control.
Fairness Perceptions in Web‐based Selection: Impact on applicants’ pursuit intentions, recommendation intentions, and intentions to reapply
Authors: Konradt Udo , Warszta Tim , Ellwart Thomas
Published: May 2013

This study examines the Gilliland model of applicants’ reactions to selection procedures in a Web‐based context, revealing new theoretical and empirical insights. We extend existing research by further considering a reflective first‐order formative second‐order model consisting of three second‐order justice factors of formal characteristics, explanation, and interpersonal treatment modeled by 11 formative indicators representing the procedural justice rules. Partial least squares path modeling analysis revealed that formal characteristics and interpersonal treatment are positively related to perceptions of process fairness in Web‐based selection. Most salient procedural justice rules revealed were treatment of the applicants, opportunity to perform, propriety of questions, and reconsideration opportunity. Furthermore, process fairness, which was positively related to applicants’ reactions, fully mediated the relationship between justice factors and applicants’ reactions.
The Interactive Effect of Conscientiousness and Agreeableness on Job Performance Dimensions in South Korea
Authors: Guay Russell P. , Oh In‐Sue , Choi Daejeong , Mitchell Marie S. , Mount Michael K. , Shin Kanghyun
Published: May 2013

While much is known about the effects of personality traits on performance, there is still limited empirical evidence that examines how personality traits may interact with each other to impact dimensions of performance. This study examined how conscientiousness and agreeableness interact to predict both task performance and organizational citizenship behavior using a sample of 113 bank employees in South Korea. The interaction between the two personality traits was significantly related to both dimensions of performance.
Inside‐out versus outside‐in transobturator tension‐free vaginal tape: A 5‐year prospective comparative study
Authors: Cheung Rachel Yau Kar , Chan Symphorosa Shing Chee , Yiu Ka Wah , Chung Tony Kwok Hung
Published: May 2013

Objective

To compare the 1‐year and 5‐year outcomes of transobturator tension‐free vaginal tape with outside‐in and inside‐out approaches in women with urinary stress incontinence, and to identify risk factors for treatment failure at 5 years.

Method

A prospective observational study was carried out for women with urinary stress incontinence who underwent transobturator tension‐free vaginal tape from September 2004 to March 2008 in a tertiary urogynecology center. Women (n = 213) had either an outside‐in (n = 124) or inside‐out (n = 89) procedure. They were followed up annually until 5 years after the operation. Subjective cure was defined as women not experiencing any urine loss on physical activity. Objective cure was defined as no urine leak at cough during a standard urodynamic study.

Results

At a mean follow up of 59.2 months, the subjective cure rates were 81.7% and 84.1%; the objective cure rate were 82.6% and 82.5% for the outside‐in and inside‐out approach, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between the procedures. De novo overactive bladder syndrome (10.6% in outside‐in and 14.6% in inside‐out approach; P = 0.40) and de novo detrusor overactivity (5.8% in outside‐in and 15% in inside‐out approach; P = 0.11) was also comparable between the two groups. Complications at the fifth year were low and not significantly different among both methods.

Conclusion

The outside‐in approach and inside‐out approach are both safe and effective in treating women with urinary stress incontinence up to 5 years.
Cutaneous tuberculosis of the pinna: a report of two cases
Authors: Kaimal Sowmya , Aithal Vijay , Kumaran Muthu Sendhil , Abraham Anil
Published: May 2013

Background

Cutaneous tuberculosis (TB) is less common than other forms of TB but accounts for 1.5% of all cases of extrapulmonary TB. The source of mycobacterial infection and the immune status of the host determine the presentation of any of a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations. Lupus vulgaris (LV) is a post‐primary, paucibacillary form of TB caused by hematogeneous, lymphatic, or contiguous spread from elsewhere in the body.

Methods

We report two recent cases of LV in women presenting with the exclusive involvement of the ear lobe. In Patient 1, clinical presentation appeared as an apparently benign chronic eczematous process. In Patient 2, it appeared as a fulminant ulceronecrotic process. Both women were immunocompetent, and neither had a personal or family history of TB.

Results

Both patients were diagnosed with LV and treated with standard antitubercular therapy (ATT). In both patients, mycobacterial culture showed growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis sensitive to streptomycin, rifampicin, and ethambutol.

Conclusions

Lupus vulgaris is the most common form of cutaneous TB. It is important to diagnose LV because it can result in chronic disfigurement and because 10–20% of LV patients have active pulmonary TB or TB of the bones and joints. In addition, longstanding LV is known to lead to the development of squamous cell carcinoma, which can be avoided by early diagnosis and treatment with ATT.
Inpatient dermatology: profile of patients and characteristics of admissions to a tertiary dermatology inpatient unit in São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: de Paula Samorano‐Lima Luciana , Quitério Ligia M. , Sanches José A. , Neto Cyro Festa
Published: May 2013

Background

Dermatology is primarily an outpatient clinical and surgical specialty, but substantial numbers of patients are admitted to hospital for inpatient treatment in dermatology wards.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study of patients admitted to dermatology beds between September 1, 2002, and September 30, 2010. Patient data were analyzed for age, gender, ethnicity, length of stay (LoS), dermatologic disease, comorbidities, hospital‐acquired infection (HAI), transfer to the intensive care unit (ICU), and mortality.

Results

A total of 3308 patients admitted during this 8‐year period were identified for analysis. The most frequent admissions were for eczema/dermatitis (17.5%) and cutaneous infections (15.9%). The mean LoS was 13.0 days. The mean ± standard deviation (SD) number of comorbidities per patient was 1.0 ± 1.2, among the most frequent of which were hypertension and diabetes mellitus. The rate of HAI was 6.2%; bloodstream infection was regarded as the most commonly acquired type and Staphylococcus aureus as the infectious agent most commonly found in culture. Of the patients admitted, 3.7% were transferred to the ICU and 2.5% died. In these latter two groups, the most common dermatologic diagnoses were immunobullous diseases, and the mean hospital LoS and rate of HAI were higher than in the total admissions cohort.

Conclusions

Higher value should be placed on dermatology inpatient services in order to expand the availability of dermatology beds, mainly in tertiary hospitals, in view of the potentially high severity of the dermatologic diseases found in many patients referred to this type of service.
Sharing Responsibility and Holding Responsible
Authors: Williams Garrath
Published: May 2013

Who, in particular, may hold us responsible for our moral failings? Most discussions of moral responsibility bracket this question, despite its obvious practical importance. In this article, I investigate the moral authority involved and how it arises in the context of personal relationships, such as friendship or family relations. My account is based on the idea that parties to a personal relationship not only share responsibility for their relationship, but also — to some degree that is negotiated between them — for one another's lives. In sharing these responsibilities, we grant people a particular authority to respond to us. By highlighting the responsibility that we assume when we hold someone responsible, I also suggest that this analysis contains important lessons for thinking about responsibility in other contexts.
Selenium status in a group of schoolchildren from the region of Madrid, Spain
Authors: Navia B. , Ortega R. M. , Perea J. M. , Aparicio A. , López‐Sobaler A. M. , Rodríguez‐Rodríguez E. ,   Research Group: UCM 920030 (VALORNUT)
Published: May 2013

Background

To assess the selenium status of a group of schoolchildren from the Region of Madrid, Spain.

Methods

Study subjects comprised 483 children (216 boys and 267 girls) aged between 8 and 13 years. Selenium intake was determined using a 3‐day food record. The foods consumed were transformed into energy and nutrients, and the selenium intake was compared with that recommended. Serum selenium levels were also recorded.

Results

Mean (SD) selenium intake [91.0 (25.2) μg day−1] was above the recommended level in 99.4% of subjects; the main dietary sources were cereals, meats, fish and milk products. The serum selenium concentration [mean (SD) 71.1 (14.4) μg L−1], however, was <60 μg L−1 in 13.9% of subjects, and <45 μg L−1 in 5.6%. The serum selenium concentration correlated with the selenium intake (r = 0.169; P < 0.05). Children with a serum selenium concentration of <75 μg L−1 had significantly smaller selenium intakes than those with a serum concentration of ≥75 μg L−1.

Conclusions

Although selenium intake was generally above that recommended, the serum selenium concentration of the children could be improved. This could be achieved by increasing the relative consumption of cereals and other selenium rich foods such as fish.
Time‐Varying Risk–Return Trade‐off in the Stock Market
Authors: GUO HUI , WANG ZIJUN , YANG JIAN
Published: May 2013

We uncover a strong comovement of the stock market risk–return trade‐off with the consumption–wealth ratio (CAY). The finding reflects time‐varying investment opportunities rather than countercyclical aggregate relative risk aversion. Specifically, the partial risk–return trade‐off is positive and constant when we control for CAY as a proxy for investment opportunities. Moreover, conditional market variance scaled by CAY is negatively priced in the cross‐section of stock returns. Our results are consistent with a limited stock market participation model, in which shareholders require an illiquidity premium that increases with CAY, in addition to the risk premium that is proportional to conditional market variance.
Family Caregiving for Dependent Older Adults in Thai Families
Authors: Wongsawang Nongnuch , Lagampan Sunee , Lapvongwattana Punyarat , Bowers Barbara J.
Published: May 2013

Purpose

The aim of this study was to understand how Thai families care for dependent older adults.

Design and Methods

The methodology used for the study was grounded dimensional analysis. Participants were 30 adult family members from 15 families who were involved in caregiving. A total of 46 interviews were conducted. Data were collected and analyzed in three phases: (a) calling up dimensions, (b) assigning relative value to each of the dimension considers, and (c) inferring.

Findings

In Thai families, “natural caregiving” precedes care of dependent older persons (dependent caregiving). Dependent caregiving begins when dependency is first noticed and care needs are identified. Dependent caregiving is a dynamic process integrating three major processes: (a) mobilizing family members, (b) performing dependent care, and (c) maintaining continuity of care. The consequences of performing dependent care and unpredictable changes lead to care remobilizing.

Conclusions

Dependent care for older adults varies across and is influenced by many conditions. Health personnel need to assess and monitor these varying conditions in order to support Thai families caring for dependent older adults.

Clinical Relevance

The conceptual model developed from the findings of this study provide a starting place for increasing our understanding of how to help Thai families care effectively and continuously for their older family members.
Nature as a source of metabolites with cholinesterase-inhibitory activity: an approach to Alzheimer's disease treatment
Authors: Pinho Brígida R , Ferreres Federico , Valentão Patrícia , Andrade Paula B
Published: May 2013

Objectives

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia, being responsible for high healthcare costs and familial hardships. Despite the efforts of researchers, no treatment able to delay or stop AD progress exists. Currently, the available treatments are only symptomatic, cholinesterase inhibitors being the most widely used drugs. Here we describe several natural compounds with anticholinesterase (acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase) activity and also some synthetic compounds whose structures are based on those of natural compounds.

Key findings

Galantamine and rivastigmine are two cholinesterase inhibitors used in therapeutics: galantamine is a natural alkaloid that was extracted for the first time from Galanthus nivalis L., while rivastigmine is a synthetic alkaloid, the structure of which is modelled on that of natural physostigmine. Alkaloids include a high number of compounds with anticholinesterases activity at the submicromolar range. Quinones and stilbenes are less well studied regarding cholinesterase inhibition, although some of them, such as sargaquinoic acid or (+)-α-viniferin, show promising activity. Among flavonoids, flavones and isoflavones are the most potent compounds. Xanthones and monoterpenes are generally weak cholinesterase inhibitors.

Nature is an almost endless source of bioactive compounds. Several natural compounds have anticholinesterase activity and others can be used as leader compounds for the synthesis of new drugs.
Three phases for the early peopling of Hainan Island viewed from mitochondrial DNA
Authors: LI Dong‐Na , WANG Chuan‐Chao , LU Yan , QIN Zhen‐Dong , YANG Kun , LIN Xue‐Jing , LI Hui ,   the Genographic Consortium
Published: May 2013

Hainan, an island linking mainland East Asia and Southeast Asia, lay in one of the routes of early migration to East Asia. The largest indigenous group of Hainan is called Hlai, possibly direct descendants of the earliest migrants. However, there are no sufficient genetic data to assess the population history of Hainan Island. Here, we have analyzed mitochondrial DNA control‐region and coding‐region sequence variations in 566 Hlai individuals from all five subgroups, Ha, Gei, Zwn, Moifau, and Jiamao. Our results suggest three phases for the peopling of Hainan. The first phase represents the initial settlement of the island as part of the African dispersal approximately 50 000 years ago. The second phase reflects colonization events from mainland Asia before the Last Glacial Maximum, which was recorded by wide distributed lineages, such as F*, B4a, and D4a.The third phase reflects population expansions under lineages F1b, M7b, and R9b after the Last Glacial Maximum and Neolithic migrations in and out of Hainan Island. Selection also started to play a role during the last phase. We also detected different distributions between paternal Y chromosome and maternal mitochondrial DNA among isolated Hlai populations, which might be caused by sex‐biased cultural practices.
Current Opinions on Alternative Reservoir Placement for Inflatable Penile Prosthesis among Members of the Sexual Medicine Society of North America
Authors: Karpman Edward , Sadeghi-Nejad Hossein , Henry Gerard , Khera Mohit , Morey Allen F.
Published: May 2013

Introduction

The Sexual Medicine Society of North America (SMSNA) includes as its members the most experienced prosthetic surgeons in North America who implant inflatable penile prostheses (IPPs). Obliteration of the space of Retzius (SOR) resulting from robotic-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP) is a growing concern that has prompted many surgeons to look for alternative locations for reservoir placement during IPP implantation.

Aim

The aim of this article is to educate the community of prosthetic urologists about potential complications and alternative locations for IPP reservoir placement.

Methods

A panel of high-volume experienced prosthetic surgeons discussed their views on alternative IPP reservoir implantation during a symposium focused on this topic. After reviewing reservoir complications, physician members of the SMSNA in attendance were surveyed using an audience response system (ARS) to facilitate sharing of knowledge, opinions, and recommendations related to reservoir implantation.

Main Outcome Measures

Six ARS questions were used to identify the percentages of SMSNA member physicians with concerns about traditional IPP reservoir placement and utilizing alternative reservoir placement (ARP), and the impact of changing practice patterns on patient safety.

Results

A majority (81%) of experienced implant surgeons surveyed think that RALP sometimes or frequently makes traditional IPP reservoir placement more difficult. Placement of the reservoir in an alternative location is sometimes or frequently advantageous for patient safety. A vast majority (97%) of the 95 respondents indicated that ARP techniques should be included in physician training courses.

Conclusions

Physicians have concerns about reservoir placement in the SOR in RALP patients, which may explain why ARP is popular among SMSNA members. Device manufacturers should support physician training that provides for ARP. Clinical outcomes in RALP patients are needed to better understand the risks and benefits, and define the ideal location of reservoir placement in this population.
Short‐ and Long‐Range Interactions Governing the Viscoelastic Properties during Wheat Dough and Model Dough Development
Authors: Schiedt Birgitta , Baumann Andreas , Conde‐Petit Beatrice , Vilgis Thomas A.
Published: May 2013

During dough development, a number of different changes occur on different time and length scales. We present here a simplified physical model able to explain the main rheological changes occurring during this process. It is based on the view of dough as a continuous gluten polymer matrix, into which starch granules are embedded as filler particles. The overall viscoelastic properties of this system are governed not only by those of its matrix, but also by the interplay of its components' interactions, each dominating at different length scales. They can be separated by performing rheological measurements at different deformation levels. Their relative importance can also be probed via the use of starch/gluten model systems in which the volume fraction of filler is varied. Dynamic oscillatory measurements in the linear and nonlinear viscoelastic range were performed on model dough as well as on natural wheat flour dough at different stages of development.

Practical Applications

Understanding the role of the different components in wheat dough concerning their influence on the rheological properties of the dough is crucial for the development of any new product. For example, in view of the search for new formulations of gluten free products, not only the properties of gluten itself, but also its interactions with the other components, especially starch, have to be taken into account.