bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intraoperative peritoneal lavage cytology offers prognostic significance for gastric cancer patients with curative resection
Authors: Higaki Eiji , Yanagi Shinya , Gotohda Naoto , Kinoshita Takahiro , Kuwata Takeshi , Nagino Masato , Ochiai Atsushi , Fujii Satoshi
Published: March 2017

Outcomes of patients with gastric cancer who exhibit positive peritoneal lavage cytology findings (CY+) vary by diagnostic methods because of quantitative and qualitative cancer cell diversity. This study sought to establish practical diagnostic criteria for performing curative resections, based on peritoneal lavage cytology findings in gastric cancer patients. We enrolled 1028 patients with gastric cancer who underwent R0/1 (n = 911) or R2 (n = 117) resections and analyzed relationships between cancer cell findings in peritoneal lavage fluid and clinicopathological factors in the R0/1 group. We found 68 patients with CY+ status. Receiver operating characteristic analyses and multivariate analyses showed that the presence of ≥1 signet ring cell, ≥5 cell clusters or ≥50 isolated cancer cells in peritoneal lavage fluid predicted poor prognoses in the 68 CY+ patients. High‐risk CY+ group patients with at least one of the above predictors had the highest hazard ratio (HR = 3.28, P < 0.001). The remaining (low‐risk) patients had a survival curve similar to that of patients with a normal cytology. The high‐risk CY+ patients who underwent R1 resection had poor prognoses despite no macroscopic peritoneal metastasis (2% 5‐year survival)—equivalent to that of patients who underwent R2 resection. The CY+ criteria defined in this study could help identify candidates for curative resection as an initial therapy for gastric cancer.
Metabolic characterization of invaded cells of the pancreatic cancer cell line, PANC‐1
Authors: Fujita Mayumi , Imadome Kaori , Imai Takashi
Published: March 2017

We previously reported that about 0.4% of cells in the cultured human pancreatic cancer cell line, PANC‐1, can invade matrigel during the transwell invasion assay, suggesting that these invaded PANC‐1 cells may have specific characteristics to keep their invasive potential. To identify the metabolic characterization specific in the invaded PANC‐1 cells, metabolome analysis of the invaded PANC‐1 compared with the whole cultured PANC‐1 was performed using CE‐TOFMS, and concentrations of 110 metabolites were measured. In contrast to the whole cultured cells, the invaded PANC‐1 was characterized as a population with reduced levels of amino acids and TCA cycle intermediates, and decreased and increased intermediates in glycolysis and nucleic acid metabolism. In particular, the ratio of both adenosine and guanosine energy charge was reduced in the invaded cells, revealing that the consumption of ATP and GTP was high in the invaded cells, and thus suggesting that ATP‐ or GTP‐generating pathways are stimulated. In addition, the GSH/GSSG ratio was low in the invaded cells, but these cells had a higher surviving fraction after exposure to hydrogen peroxide. Thus, the invaded cells were the population resistant to oxidative stress. Furthermore, reduction in intracellular GSH content inhibited PANC‐1 invasiveness, indicated that GSH has an important role in PANC‐1 invasiveness. Overall, we propose the invaded cells have several unique metabolic profiles.
Extracellular vesicles as trans‐genomic agents: Emerging roles in disease and evolution
Authors: Kawamura Yumi , Yamamoto Yusuke , Sato Taka‐Aki , Ochiya Takahiro
Published: March 2017

The composition of genetic material in extracellular vesicles (EV) has sparked interest particularly in the potential for horizontal gene transfer by EV. Although the RNA content of EV has been studied extensively, few reports have examined the DNA content of EV. It is still unclear how DNA is packaged inside EV, and whether they are functional in recipient cells. In this review, we describe the biological significance of genetic material in EV and their possible impacts in recipient cells, with focus on DNA from cancer cell‐derived EV and the potential roles they may play in the cancer microenvironment. Another important feature of the genetic content of EV is the presence of retrotransposon elements. In this review, we discuss the possibility of an EV‐mediated mechanism for the dispersal of retrotransposon elements, and their potential involvement in the development of genetically influenced diseases. In addition to this, we discuss the potential involvement of EV in the transfer of genetic material across species, and their possible impacts in modulating genome evolution.
Tyrosinemia type II: Mutation update, 11 novel mutations and description of 5 independent subjects with a novel founder mutation
Authors: Peña‐Quintana L. , Scherer G. , Curbelo‐Estévez M.L. , Jiménez‐Acosta F. , Hartmann B. , La Roche F. , Meavilla‐Olivas S. , Pérez‐Cerdá C. , García‐Segarra N. , Giguère Y. , Huppke P. , Mitchell G.A. , Mönch E. , Trump D. , Vianey‐Saban C. , Trimble E.R. , Vitoria‐Miñana I. , Reyes‐Suárez D. , Ramírez‐Lorenzo T. , Tugores A.
Published: March 2017

Background

Tyrosinemia type II, also known as Richner‐Hanhart Syndrome, is an extremely rare autosomal recessive disorder, caused by mutations in the gene encoding hepatic cytosolic tyrosine aminotransferase, leading to the accumulation of tyrosine and its metabolites which cause ocular and skin lesions, that may be accompanied by neurological manifestations, mostly intellectual disability.

Aims

To update disease‐causing mutations and current clinical knowledge of the disease.

Materials and Methods

Genetic and clinical information were obtained from a collection of both unreported and previously reported cases.

Results

We report 106 families, represented by 143 individuals, carrying a total of 36 genetic variants, 11 of them not previously known to be associated with the disease. Variants include 3 large deletions, 21 non‐synonymous and 5 nonsense amino‐acid changes, 5 frameshifts and 2 splice variants. We also report 5 patients from Gran Canaria, representing the largest known group of unrelated families sharing the same P406L mutation.

Conclusions

Data analysis did not reveal a genotype‐phenotype correlation, but stressed the need of early diagnosis: All patients improved the oculocutaneous lesions after dietary treatment but neurological symptoms prevailed. The discovery of founder mutations in isolated populations, and the benefits of early intervention, should increase diagnostic awareness in newborns.
Histopathological assessment of OASIS Ultra on critical‐sized wound healing: a pilot study
Authors: Yeh Daniel Dante , Nazarian Rosalynn M. , Demetri Leah , Mesar Tomaz , Dijkink Suzan , Larentzakis Andreas , Velmahos George , Sadik Karim Walid
Published: March 2017

Background

Dermatopathologists assess wounds secondary to trauma, infection, or oncologic resection that can be challenging to reconstruct. OASIS Ultra, an extracellular matrix, has been described for use in chronic and burn wounds. The aim of this pilot study is to assess wound healing in post‐traumatic and infective wounds treated with OASIS using histological markers of repair.

Materials and Methods

Adults with traumatic, infective or iatrogenic wound defects with size precluding primary closure were eligible. Half the wound was randomly assigned to receive OASIS plus standard therapy; the other half received standard of care (SOC) therapy. During dressing changes, standardized‐scale photographs were taken and biopsies obtained. Histologic sections were reviewed for degree of acute inflammation and extent of tissue repair. Neutrophils, edema, hemorrhage, necrosis, fibroblasts, collagen density and neovascularization were semi‐quantitatively assessed.

Results

Forty‐four skin biopsies from 7 patients with 10 acute wounds met eligibility criteria. Histologically, OASIS samples demonstrated improved acute inflammation scores compared to SOC. No patients experienced OASIS‐related complications. OASIS‐treated wound halves trended toward more wound contraction and improved tissue repair.

Conclusion

Our scoring system aids histopathological wound assessment. Treatment of critical‐sized, post‐traumatic, acute wounds with OASIS resulted in decreased inflammation, and potentially more advanced wound healing, compared to SOC.
Objects in Focus: Museum Visitors and Instagram
Authors: Budge Kylie
Published: March 2017

While there is increasingly widespread use of social media by those visiting museum exhibitions relatively little is understood about this practice. Further still, the focus of such practices is unknown yet research in this area can reveal much about how visitors using applications driven by smart phone technology are engaging with exhibition content, space, design, architecture and people. This article draws on a case study of one exhibition using visual content analysis to frame, explore and interpret visual and text based posts by visitors using the social media application, Instagram, as part of their experience. Findings suggest that museum visitors using this application do so to account for and record details of their experience that draws attention to exhibition content, specifically objects. The implications are extensive for cultural institutions given the uptake of social media in all corners of life, with museums and galleries being a lively context for social media use via mobile technologies.
“Let's talk about sex”: visitor comments in Contraception: Uncovering the collection of Dame Margaret Sparrow
Authors: Gibson Stephanie
Published: March 2017

Contraception: Uncovering the collection of Dame Margaret Sparrow was an exhibition at the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa which featured a participatory activity titled “Let's talk about sex” where visitors could answer the question: “If you could give your younger self one piece of advice about contraception, what would it be?” Over 2200 comments were written, inspiring an evaluation project. The resulting analysis provides insights into visitors’ attitudes, values, behaviours, experiences and concerns about contraception, sex, sexuality and sexual health in the early 21st century. The results also demonstrate the value and usefulness of visitor comments both as an exhibition experience and as data to complement formal evaluation methods. The paper also acknowledges the less successful aspects of the project.
Neuroanatomical correlates of performance in a state‐wide test of math achievement
Authors: Wilkey Eric D. , Cutting Laurie E. , Price Gavin R.
Published: March 2017

The development of math skills is a critical component of early education and a strong indicator of later school and economic success. Recent research utilizing population‐normed, standardized measures of math achievement suggest that structural and functional integrity of parietal regions, especially the intraparietal sulcus, are closely related to the development of math skills. However, it is unknown how these findings relate to in‐school math learning. The present study is the first to address this issue by investigating the relationship between regional differences in grey matter (GM) volume and performance in grade‐level mathematics as measured by a state‐wide, school‐based test of math achievement (TCAP math) in children from 3rd to 8th grade. Results show that increased GM volume in the bilateral hippocampal formation and the right inferior frontal gyrus, regions associated with learning and memory, is associated with higher TCAP math scores. Secondary analyses revealed that GM volume in the left angular gyrus had a stronger relationship to TCAP math in grades 3–4 than in grades 5–8 while the relationship between GM volume in the left inferior frontal gyrus and TCAP math was stronger for grades 5–8. These results suggest that the neuroanatomical architecture related to in‐school math achievement differs from that related to math achievement measured by standardized tests, and that the most related neural structures differ as a function of grade level. We suggest, therefore, that the use of school‐relevant outcome measures is critical if neuroscience is to bridge the gap to education.
The procedural learning deficit hypothesis of language learning disorders: we see some problems
Authors: West Gillian , Vadillo Miguel A. , Shanks David R. , Hulme Charles
Published: March 2017

Impaired procedural learning has been suggested as a possible cause of developmental dyslexia (DD) and specific language impairment (SLI). This study examined the relationship between measures of verbal and non‐verbal implicit and explicit learning and measures of language, literacy and arithmetic attainment in a large sample of 7 to 8‐year‐old children. Measures of verbal explicit learning were correlated with measures of attainment. In contrast, no relationships between measures of implicit learning and attainment were found. Critically, the reliability of the implicit learning tasks was poor. Our results show that measures of procedural learning, as currently used, are typically unreliable and insensitive to individual differences. A video abstract of this article can be viewed at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YnvV-BvNWSo
The ontogeny of relational memory and pattern separation
Authors: Ngo Chi T. , Newcombe Nora S. , Olson Ingrid R.
Published: March 2017

Episodic memory relies on memory for the relations among multiple elements of an event and the ability to discriminate among similar elements of episodes. The latter phenomenon, termed pattern separation, has been studied mainly in young and older adults with relatively little research on children. Building on prior work with young children, we created an engaging computer‐administered relational memory task assessing what‐where relations. We also modified the Mnemonic Similarity Task used to assess pattern discrimination in young and older adults for use with preschool children. Results showed that 4‐year‐olds performed significantly worse than 6‐year‐olds and adults on both tasks, whereas 6‐year‐olds and adults performed comparably, even though there were no ceiling effects. However, performance on the two tasks did not correlate, suggesting that two distinct mnemonic processes with different developmental trajectories may contribute to age‐related changes in episodic memory.
Peripheral and central contribution to the difficulty of speech in noise perception in dyslexic children
Authors: Calcus Axelle , Deltenre Paul , Colin Cécile , Kolinsky Régine
Published: March 2017

Noise typically induces both peripheral and central masking of an auditory target. Whereas the idea that a deficit of speech in noise perception is inherent to dyslexia is still debated, most studies have actually focused on the peripheral contribution to the dyslexics’ difficulties of perceiving speech in noise. Here, we investigated the respective contribution of both peripheral and central noise in three groups of children: dyslexic, chronological age matched controls (CA), and reading‐level matched controls (RL). In all noise conditions, dyslexics displayed significantly lower performance than CA controls. However, they performed similarly or even better than RL controls. Scrutinizing individual profiles failed to reveal a strong consistency in the speech perception difficulties experienced across all noise conditions, or across noise conditions and reading‐related performances. Taken together, our results thus suggest that both peripheral and central interference contribute to the poorer speech in noise perception of dyslexic children, but that this difficulty is not a core deficit inherent to dyslexia.
Increasing the protein quantity in a meal results in dose‐dependent effects on postprandial glucose levels in individuals with Type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Paterson M. A. , Smart C. E. M. , Lopez P. E. , Howley P. , McElduff P. , Attia J. , Morbey C. , King B. R.
Published: March 2017

Aim

To determine the glycaemic impact of increasing protein quantities when consumed with consistent amounts of carbohydrate in individuals with Type 1 diabetes on intensive insulin therapy.

Methods

Participants with Type 1 diabetes [aged 10–40 years, HbA1c ≤ 64 mmol/mol (8%), BMI ≤ 91st percentile] received a 30‐g carbohydrate (negligible fat) test drink daily over 5 days in randomized order. Protein (whey isolate 0 g/kg carbohydrate, 0 g/kg lipid) was added in amounts of 0 (control), 12.5, 25, 50 and 75 g. A standardized dose of insulin was given for the carbohydrate. Postprandial glycaemia was assessed by 5 h of continuous glucose monitoring.

Results

Data were collected from 27 participants (15 male). A dose–response relationship was found with increasing amount of protein. A significant negative relationship between protein dose and mean excursion was seen at the 30‐ and 60‐min time points (P = 0.007 and P = 0.002, respectively). No significant relationship was seen at the 90‐ and 120‐min time points. Thereafter, the dose–response relationship inverted, such that there was a significant positive relationship for each of the 150–300‐min time points (P < 0.004). Mean glycaemic excursions were significantly greater for all protein‐added test drinks from 150 to 300 min (P < 0.005) with the 75‐g protein load, resulting in a mean excursion that was 5 mmol/l higher when compared with the control test drink (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Increasing protein quantity in a low‐fat meal containing consistent amounts of carbohydrate decreases glucose excursions in the early (0–60‐min) postprandial period and then increases in the later postprandial period in a dose‐dependent manner.
Prevalence of elevated liver enzymes in adults with type 1 diabetes: A multicentre analysis of the German/Austrian DPV database
Authors: Stadler Marietta , Bollow Esther , Fritsch Maria , Kerner Wolfgang , Schuetz‐Fuhrmann Ingrid , Krakow Dietmar , Merger Sigrun , Riedl Michaela , Jehle Peter , Holl Reinhard W. ,   for the DPV Initiative and the German BMBF Competence Network Diabetes mellitus
Published: March 2017

Aims

To assess the prevalence of elevated liver enzymes in adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) in routine clinical care and the association with cardiovascular risk profile in the Diabetes‐Prospective‐Documentation (DPV) network in Germany and Austria.

Subjects and methods

This cross sectional observational study from the DPV registry includes data from 45 519 adults with T1DM at 478 centres up to September 2016. Liver enzyme measurements were available in 9226 (29%) patients at 270 centres and were analysed for increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT; men >50 U/L, women >35U/L) and/or aspartate aminotransferase (AST; men >50 U/L, women >35U/L) and/or gamma‐glutamyltransferase (GGT; men >60U/L, women >40 U/L). A subgroup analysis in patients for whom 2 or more ALT measurements were available (n = 2335, 25%) and whose ALT was increased at least twice (men >30 U/L, women >19U/L) was performed. Associations with glycaemic control, cardiovascular risk factors and late complications were investigated with multiple regression analyses.

Results

Twenty percent (19.8%, n = 1824) had increased liver enzyme(s) on one or more occasions. Increased liver enzymes were associated with worse glycaemic control and higher BMI (both P < .0001), dyslipidemia (OR, 1.75; 95% CI, 1.54‐2.0), hypertension (OR, 1.48; 95% CI: 1.31‐1.68), myocardial infarction (OR, 1.49; 95% CI, 1.17‐1.91) and end stage renal disease (OR, 1.59; 95% CI, 1.17‐2.17). ALT was increased twice in 29% and was associated with worse glycaemic control (P < .0001), higher BMI (P < .0001), hypertension (OR, 1.58; 95% CI, 1.26‐1.97) and dyslipidemia (OR, 1.89; 95% CI, 1.51‐2.37).

Conclusions

In this clinical audit in adults with T1DM, elevated liver enzymes on routine assessment were associated with a less favourable cardiovascular risk profile and with poorer glycaemic control.
THE EFFECTS OF MACROECONOMIC CONDITIONS AT GRADUATION ON OVEREDUCATION
Authors: Summerfield Fraser , Theodossiou Ioannis
Published: March 2017

This article shows that unfavorable economic conditions at graduation decrease the likelihood of a good job‐worker match over a worker's subsequent career. Mismatch is quantified in terms of overeducation by both industry and occupation. The German Socio‐Economic Panel and region‐level unemployment rates from 1994 to 2012 are used. Instrumental variables estimates account for endogenous graduation timing. A single percentage point increase in regional unemployment causes an increase in the probability of overeducation of 1.6–1.7 percentage points for university graduates. Effects for technical tertiary education and apprenticeship graduates are smaller. Labor market entry conditions affect workers for up to 9 years after graduation. (JEL J23, J22, E32, I23)
Survey tools and demographic parameters of SlovakianAgrilusassociated with beech and poplar
Authors: Rhainds Marc , Kimoto Troy , Galko Juraj , Nikolov Christo , Ryall Krista , Brodersen Garrett , Webster Vincent
Published: March 2017

Woodborers in theAgrilusgenus (Coleoptera:Buprestidae) pose high invasiveness risk as indicated by the recent invasion and continental spread of emerald ash borer, and the associated threat to ash resources in North America. In that context, development of detection tools for potentially invasiveAgrilusspp. is a research priority. Experiments carried out in 2013 in Slovakian beech and poplar forests evaluated the attraction of multipleAgrilusspecies to green and purple sticky prism traps baited with various lures [blank, cubeb oil, (Z)‐3‐hexenol]. The two most abundant species wereAgrilus viridisL. in beech (Fagusspp.) forest (146 adults, >95% of which were females) andAgrilus convexicollisRedtenbacher in poplar (Populusspp.) forest (158 adults, two‐thirds of them males). The two species exhibited opposite responses to color: purple traps attracted 2–3× more adultA. viridisthan green traps, whereas most (>95%) specimens ofA. convexicolliswere captured on green traps. Volatile baits did not influence captures of adults for either species. The introduction and establishment ofA. viridisin North America is of particular concern owing to its feeding niche (primary pest that can attack healthy trees), large body size, and high level of polyphagy (>10 genera of host trees). Additional experiments conducted in beech forests in 2014 found purple prism traps more attractive to femaleA. viridisthan green prism traps, especially those baited with cubeb oil. No analysis was conducted for males because of their low abundance. FemaleA. viridisflew earlier in 2013 than in 2014, but neither their body size nor fecundity varied between years. In both years, large females had more eggs in their abdomen than small females, and the number of eggs steadily declined over time, which suggests that femaleA. viridisare reproductively mature at emergence.
Realizing the Good: Hegel's Critique of Kantian Morality
Authors: García Mills Nicolás
Published: March 2017

Although the best‐known Hegelian objection against Kant's moral philosophy is the charge that the categorical imperative is an ‘empty formalism’, Hegel's criticisms also include what we might call the realizability objection. Tentatively stated, the realizability objection says that within the sphere of Kantian morality, the good remains an unrealizable ‘ought’ – in other words, the Kantian moral ‘ought’ can never become an ‘is’. In this paper, I attempt to come to grips with this objection in two steps. In the first section of the paper, I provide an initial reading of the objection, according to which Hegel agrees with Kant's formulation of the realizability problem but disagrees with the specific Kantian solution, namely, with the Kantian idea of the highest good and the doctrine of the postulates. In the second section, I go on to argue that this reading is potentially too superficial and offer a more far‐reaching interpretation whereby Hegel is ultimately targeting fundamental distinctions (between, for instance, reason and sensibility) of Kant's moral theory. I end by employing these more far‐reaching results of Hegel's objection to sketch some features of Hegel's alternative ethical view.
Development and validation of a simplified morphological identification key for larvae of tephritid species most commonly intercepted at import in Europe
Authors: Balmès V. , Mouttet R.
Published: March 2017

Fruit flies (Diptera, Tephritidae) are amongst the most important pests on fruits and vegetables worldwide. All non‐European Tephritidae are listed in Annex I/A1 of Directive 2000/29/EC but only a limited number of species are regularly intercepted in Europe. This study presents a morphological identification key, supported by molecular analysis, for the third‐instar larvae of 10 commonly intercepted taxa. The key proved to be sensitive and specific. However, the evaluation of its reproducibility emphasizes the importance of the operator's taxonomic expertise and questions the relevance of criteria under which a morphological method can be validated. This morphological identification key provides a rapid and economic diagnostic tool for identifying tephritid larvae. It is not intended to cover all species but allows for an initial diagnosis to be made. Given the current difficulty in identifying most immature stages of insects, the approach presented here could be used to develop some morphological identification tools for other species of concern.
Volcanic ash supports a diverse bacterial community in a marine mesocosm
Authors: Witt V. , Ayris P. M. , Damby D. E. , Cimarelli C. , Kueppers U. , Dingwell D. B. , Wörheide G.
Published: March 2017

Shallow‐water coral reef ecosystems, particularly those already impaired by anthropogenic pressures, may be highly sensitive to disturbances from natural catastrophic events, such as volcanic eruptions. Explosive volcanic eruptions expel large quantities of silicate ash particles into the atmosphere, which can disperse across millions of square kilometres and deposit into coral reef ecosystems. Following heavy ash deposition, mass mortality of reef biota is expected, but little is known about the recovery of post‐burial reef ecosystems. Reef regeneration depends partly upon the capacity of the ash deposit to be colonised by waterborne bacterial communities and may be influenced to an unknown extent by the physiochemical properties of the ash substrate itself. To determine the potential for volcanic ash to support pioneer bacterial colonisation, we exposed five well‐characterised volcanic and coral reef substrates to a marine aquarium under low light conditions for 3 months: volcanic ash, synthetic volcanic glass, carbonate reef sand, calcite sand and quartz sand. Multivariate statistical analysis of Automated Ribosomal Intergenic Spacer Analysis (ARISA) fingerprinting data demonstrates clear segregation of volcanic substrates from the quartz and coral reef substrates over 3 months of bacterial colonisation. Overall bacterial diversity showed shared and substrate‐specific bacterial communities; however, the volcanic ash substrate supported the most diverse bacterial community. These data suggest a significant influence of substrate properties (composition, granulometry and colour) on bacterial settlement. Our findings provide first insights into physicochemical controls on pioneer bacterial colonisation of volcanic ash and highlight the potential for volcanic ash deposits to support bacterial diversity in the aftermath of reef burial, on timescales that could permit cascading effects on larval settlement.
Should Gender Differences be Considered When Assessing Student Satisfaction in the Online Learning Environment for Millennials?
Authors: Harvey Heather Lea , Parahoo Sanjai , Santally Mohammad
Published: March 2017

The majority of today's students in online higher education are millennials and have grown up using technology. Therefore, there is a need to determine if their expectations from online learning are different from previous contextual studies and whether or not these vary across gender. This study used a mixed method approach, using focus groups, followed by online surveys of 834 undergraduate students from the University of Mauritius enrolled in an online course. Using factor analysis and structural equation modelling, the study found no significant differences based on gender for millennials, but identified three significant antecedents of student satisfaction for both males and females: university reputation; physical facilities; and instructor empathy.
Occupational mycosis fungoides – a case series
Authors: Slodownik Dan , Moshe Shlomo , Sprecher Eli , Goldberg Ilan
Published: March 2017

Background

Mycosis fungoides (MF) is the most frequent type of cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma. MF has long been considered to develop as the result of a combination of genetic defects and exogenous triggers. Although no specific MF‐associated environmental trigger has been established to date, some studies have suggested that occupational exposures may occasionally trigger the onset of MF.

Objective

In this observational study, we aimed at underscoring the potential association between occupational exposure and MF.

Methods

We ascertained a cohort of 150 MF patients for possible occupational exposure.

Results

Five MF patients with occupational exposure were identified in our cohort. Three patients had intensive contact with aromatic hydrocarbons; two of them were working in the same plant and in the same unit for more than 30 years. The third patient had been in contact with aromatic hydrocarbons for a total of 8 years. Patient 4 had additional contact for 12 years with hydrazine, and patient 5 had been exposed for 3 years to formaldehyde.

Conclusion

The clustering of two cases of MF, an exceptionally rare disease, in the same plant unit, as well as the long‐term, intense occupational exposure in other cases, substantiates the notion that occupational exposures may contribute to the pathogenesis of MF.
Piezoelectric softening by Nb substitution in (Ba,Pb)ZrO3 ceramics
Authors: Fraygola Bárbara M. , Chandrasekanar Anand , Bahati David , Salazar Ulises , Biancoli Alberto , Marzari Nicola , Damjanovic Dragan , Setter Nava
Published: March 2017

Donor doping is commonly applied for softening of the piezoelectric and dielectric properties and facilitation of polarization switching in the ubiquitous Pb(Zr,Ti)O3 [PZT] ceramics. The origin of the donor‐dopant effects is not entirely clear. (Pb,Ba)ZrO3 [PBZ] is a related ferroelectric material, its perovskite A‐site being partially occupied by the larger Ba+2 cation, less prone to evaporation than Pb+2, and the B‐site is occupied entirely by the valency‐stable Zr+4. Here we report on our studies of Nb+5 doping effects in (Pb,Ba)ZrO3. Similarly, to past observations on La+3 and Nb+5 doped PZT, we find a strong reduction in relative density of PBZ when the doping is <0.5 atomic %. This is accompanied by lattice parameter reduction, enhanced PbO loss, smaller grain size and deterioration of dielectric, piezoelectric and polarization switching properties, the latter being opposite of expected softening effect. All those observations can be interpreted in terms of the Nb entering A‐site at small concentrations. This is supported by ab‐inito calculations and analysis of the possible defect reaction equations. The structure and microstructure of PBZ with Nb>0.2% are consistent with Nb+5 entering the B‐site and softening effects are observed. The study supports the scenario of hardening due to domain walls pinning by VPb‐VO divacancies and softening upon decrease in their concentration.
Quantifying intermediate‐frequency heterogeneities of SOFC electrodes using X‐ray computed tomography
Authors: Epting William K. , Mansley Zachary , Menasche David B. , Kenesei Peter , Suter Robert M. , Gerdes Kirk , Litster Shawn , Salvador Paul A.
Published: March 2017

The electrodes in solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) consist of three phases interconnected in three dimensions. The volume needed to describe quantitatively such microstructures depends on several lengths scales, which are functions of materials properties and fabrication methods. This work focuses on quantifying the volume needed to represent “intermediate frequency” heterogeneities in electrodes of a commercial SOFC using X‐ray computed tomography (CT) over two different length scales. Electrode volumes of 150 μm × 150 μm × 9 μm were extracted from a synchrotron‐based micro‐CT data set, with 13 μm3 voxels. 13.6 μm × 19.8 μm × 19.4 μm of the cathode and 26.3 μm × 24.8 μm × 15.7 μm of the anode were extracted from laboratory nano‐CT data sets, both with 653 nm3 voxels. After comparing the variation across sub‐regions for the grayscale values from the micro‐CT, and for the phase fractions and triple phase boundary densities from the nano‐CT, it was found that the sub‐region length scales needed to yield statistically similar average values were an order of magnitude larger than those expected to capture the “high frequency” heterogeneity related to the discrete nature of the three phases in electrodes. The challenge of quantifying such electrodes using available experimental methods is discussed.
Differential sensitivity of an invasive and an indigenous ladybeetle to two reduced‐risk insecticides
Authors: Cabrera P. , Cormier D. , Lucas É.
Published: March 2017

The invasive multicoloured Asian lady beetle, Harmonia axyridis (Pallas), and the indigenous twelve spotted lady beetle, Coleomegilla maculata DeGeer (Col., Coccinellidae), are two important generalist predators commonly found in apple orchards in Quebec, Canada. Both species are exposed to two reduced‐risk insecticides, recently adopted to control codling moth, Cydia pomonella (L.) (Lep., Tortricidae) in south‐eastern Canada. Chlorantraniliprole (Altacor® 35 WG), an anthranilic diamide insecticide, causes paralyses of the muscle cells by interfering with the insect ryanodine receptors, whereas novaluron (Rimon® EC 10), a benzoylphenyl urea, inhibits the chitin synthesis. The aim of this study was to compare the sensitivity of both the invasive ladybeetle H. axyridis and the indigenous C. maculata to reduced‐risk insecticides through the assessment of lethal effect on eggs and larvae following topical contact, ingestion of treated prey and exposure to fresh residues, at field rates (50.75 g a.i./ha chlorantraniliprole and 100 g a.i./ha novaluron) in laboratory conditions. Eggs of both species were not affected. Following 6 days of residual contact, chlorantraniliprole and novaluron caused more than 98% mortality to larvae of both ladybeetle species. In topical contact and ingestion trials, chlorantraniliprole caused less than 18% mortality to larvae of the two species after 6 days following exposure. Novaluron had a drastically different impact on the two predators. It did not affect the indigenous C. maculata, whereas it killed 91% and 96% of H. axyridis individuals after 6 days, respectively, following topical contact and ingestion. These results illustrate a differential sensitivity to novaluron between two relatively close species (subfamily Coccinellinae), a potential impact on the invasion process by H. axyridis, and consequently on the ladybeetle assemblage in the field.
Application of active cassava starch films incorporated with oregano essential oil and pumpkin residue extract on ground beef
Authors: Caetano Karine dos Santos , Hessel Claudia Titze , Tondo Eduardo Cesar , Flôres Simone Hickmann , Cladera‐Olivera Florencia
Published: March 2017

An antimicrobial and antioxidant film based on cassava starch incorporated with oregano essential oil (2% w/v) and pumpkin residue extract (3% w/v) was developed for application onto ground beef. A control film (without additives) was used for comparison. The film's physical, barrier, antioxidant (DPPH), and antimicrobial properties were analyzed. The addition of oil does not contribute to reducing the film's water vapor permeability or impact solubility values. Regarding the application of the film on ground beef, the addition of oregano oil demonstrated antimicrobial activity against mesophilic bacteria, coliforms, and Salmonella. The film also showed significant antioxidant activity. Meat color and pH were assessed and it was found that the film contributed to keeping the pH at low values until the sixth day of storage, but had no influence in maintaining color in the samples. Based on the results, the film may be used as an alternative to packaging because it can contribute to ground beef quality and safety.

Practical application

Developed films have antioxidant and antimicrobial activity, and the latter was proven when applied in ground beef. The film characteristics show that it may be applied in other foods such as cheeses and other meat cuts to avoid the multiplication of microorganisms. These films can be used as extra conventional packaging protection and its implementation would improve the microbiological quality and contribute to the safety and quality of packaged food.
Control of Listeria monocytogenes contamination in fresh beef by using lactococcin BZ
Authors: Yildirim Zeliha , Yerlikaya Sabire , Öncül Nilgün
Published: March 2017

The aim of this study was to investigate the inhibitory effect of lactococcin BZ produced by Lactococcus lactis spp. lactis BZ against Listeria monocytogenes in raw beef. Lactococcin BZ depending on concentration (400–3,200 AU/ml) reduced the counts of L. monocytogenes attached to meat surface (from 4.71 log CFU/g to undetectable level, and from 7.92 to 3.64 log CFU/g) in 5 min. When meat samples were simultaneously inoculated with lactococcin BZ and L. monocytogenes, lactococcin BZ reduced the count of non‐attached Listeria cells in 5 min by 1.58–5.03 (undetectable level) log cycles in the low inoculum (5.03 log CFU/g) and 1.11–5.58 log cycles in the large inoculum (7.86 log CFU/g) compared to control samples. Also, lactococcin BZ at 400–3,200 AU/ml reduced the number of L. monocytogenes in meat samples inoculated at 2.45, 4.42, and 7.29 log CFU/g throughout 12 day storage at 4 °C and maintained its biological activity. In addition, lactococcin BZ adsorbed to meat surface and adsorption did not adversely affected antilisterial activity.

Practical applications

In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effect of lactococcin BZ produced by Lactococcus lactis spp. lactis BZ against Listeria monocytogenes during, after or before attachment on raw beef. It was observed that lactococcin BZ depending on its concentration (400–3,200 AU/ml) and amount level of Listeria cells (4.71 or 7.92 log CFU/g) reduced the cell counts of L. monocytogenes in the meat samples very effectively. Lactococcin BZ at 1,600 and 3,200 AU/ml showed strong antilisterial activity toward L. monocytogenes before, during and after attachment to meat samples, but its antilisterial activity was higher before or during attachment than after attachment. Therefore, lactococcin BZ could be potential alternatives to chemical preservatives for meat industry.
Viable microbial loads on citrus carpoplane during packhouse processing and survival of foodborne pathogens in reconstituted postharvest fungicides
Authors: Gomba A. , Chidamba L. , Korsten L.
Published: March 2017

This study investigated microbial population shifts on citrus carpoplane and the impact of irrigation and packhouse processing water in four commercial farms. Samples included oranges (n = 450) and water (n = 230). Mean microbial concentrations ranging from 1.6 to 3.6 log colony forming units (CFU)/cm2 were detected on unwashed fruit and were reduced at least by 2.0 log CFU/cm2 for bacteria, 0.8 log CFU/cm2 for fungi and 1.3 log CFU/cm2 for yeasts during washing with disinfectants and/or fungicides. Occasional spikes in concentration (mostly for bacteria) were observed following some packing steps including washing, fungicide treatment, waxing, and final packing. Evaluation of Escherichia coli O157:H7 and S. Typhimurium survival in fungicides typically used during packhouse processing showed them to be susceptible to guazatine, imazalil, philabuster, and ortho‐phenyl phenate. Both tested pathogens were able to survive in thiabendazole, fludioxinil and pyremethanil, except for S. Typhimurium in fludioxinil where it died within 4 hr of incubation.

Practical applications

Understanding the impact of current intervention strategies on the ecological balance of the citrus carpoplane may provide a more durable approach to reduced losses and spoilage and in developing crop‐specific management systems for food safety assurance. Our study showed process‐by‐process changes in microbial loads naturally present on healthy citrus fruit at harvest. Washing baths containing a sanitizing agent consistently reduced initial microbial loads on the citrus carpoplane. Further, potential survival of E. coli O157:H7 and S. Typhimurium in currently registered commercial postharvest fungicides, was demonstrated. The pesticide fludioxinil was observed to be effective against, S. Typhimurium providing some potential use as a kill step agent, which, however, needs further investigation.
Prevalence of acne vulgaris and its impact of the quality of life among secondary school‐aged adolescents in Sohag Province, Upper Egypt
Authors: El‐Hamd Mohammed Abu , Nada Essam El‐Din Abdel‐aziz , Moustafa Mohammed Abdel‐Kareem , Mahboob‐Allah Rehab Ahmed
Published: March 2017

Background

Acne vulgaris is the most common dermatological condition encountered in adolescents.

Aim

It was to determine the prevalence of acne vulgaris and its impact of the quality of life among adolescents attending secondary schools in Sohag Province, Upper Egypt.

Patients and methods

This was a cross‐sectional study conducted in randomly selected governmental and technical secondary schools in Sohag Province, Upper Egypt. Approval was taken from the scientific research committee of Sohag Faculty of Medicine and also from Ministry of Education. Every student with acne was subjected to full medical history and local examination of head and neck to assess the severity of acne vulgaris. Assessment of the impact of acne vulgaris on their quality of life was carried out using self‐reported validated specific questionnaire, the Cardiff Acne Disability Index (CADI).

Results

This study included 994 teenage secondary school students. The overall prevalence of acne vulgaris was 333 (33.5%). The mean age of the students with acne was 16.84±0.87. Acne vulgaris was more common among females than among males (200, 60% vs 133, 40%). The most common form of acne vulgaris was mild 178, 53%, followed by moderate form 135, 41%, and severe form 20, 6%. CADI score was significantly related to the disease grade and it was maximum among those with severe grade, followed by moderate and lastly mild disease grade.

Conclusion

Acne vulgaris is a common skin disease and has a valuable impact on quality of life among adolescents attending secondary schools in Sohag Province, Upper Egypt.
“Welcome on board”: Overall liking and just‐about‐right ratings of airplane meals in three different consumption contexts—laboratory, re‐created airplane, and actual airplane
Authors: Holthuysen Nancy T. E. , Vrijhof Milou N. , de Wijk René A. , Kremer Stefanie
Published: March 2017

The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of contexts on overall liking and just‐about‐right (JAR) ratings of airplane meals. A rice dish (meal type A) and a pasta dish (meal type B) were assessed. Per meal type, two variants were produced (variant 1 and 2). Two hundred forty‐two consumers were randomly allocated to evaluate one of the four meals, first in a laboratory setting and then in a re‐created airplane environment. In addition, 222 passengers did the same assessments during an actual flight. Specific meals (A1, B1) were less liked in the laboratory than in the re‐created airplane. In general, no differentiation in overall liking occurred per meal type between the two tested variants in the laboratory, whereas these two variants were significantly differentiated in liking in the re‐created airplane and the actual airplane. Mean overall liking ratings in the re‐created airplane did not significantly differ from the mean overall liking ratings in the actual airplane. The observed JAR ratings did not differ much between the re‐created airplane and the actual airplane. In summary, the re‐created airplane as a testing location produced more similar test results to the actual airplane than the traditional laboratory.

Practical applications

Sensory consumer testing in re‐created contexts may produce results with a higher external validity than laboratory testing and therefore offer a cost‐efficient alternative to extensive sensory consumer testing in real‐life contexts.
Ongoing incident hepatitis C virus infection among people with a history of injecting drug use in an Australian prison setting, 2005‐2014: The HITS‐p study
Authors: Cunningham E. B. , Hajarizadeh B. , Bretana N. A. , Amin J. , Betz‐Stablein B. , Dore G. J. , Luciani F. , Teutsch S. , Dolan K. , Lloyd A. R. , Grebely J. ,   the HITS‐p investigators
Published: March 2017

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmission is high in prisons. This study investigated trends in HCV incidence and associated factors among a cohort of prisoners with a history of injecting drug use in New South Wales, Australia. Data were available from the Hepatitis C Incidence and Transmission Study—prisons (HITS‐p) from 2005 to 2014. Temporal trends in HCV incidence were evaluated. Factors associated with time to HCV seroconversion among people with ongoing injecting was assessed using Cox proportional hazards. Among 320 antibody‐negative participants with a history of injecting drug use (mean age 26; 72% male), 62% (n=197) reported injecting drug use during follow‐up. Overall, 93 infections were observed. HCV incidence was 11.4/100 person‐years in the overall population and 6.3/100 person‐years among the continually imprisoned population. A stable trend in HCV incidence was observed. Among the overall population with ongoing injecting during follow‐up, ≥weekly injecting drug use frequency was independently associated with time to HCV seroconversion. Among continuously imprisoned injectors with ongoing injecting during follow‐up, needle/syringe sharing was independently associated with time to HCV seroconversion. This study demonstrates that prison is a high‐risk environment for acquisition of HCV infection. Needle and syringe sharing was associated with HCV infection among continually imprisoned participants, irrespective of frequency of injecting or the type of drug injected. These findings highlight the need for the evaluation of improved HCV prevention strategies in prison, including needle/syringe programmes and HCV treatment.