bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Too Shame to Look:1Learning to Trust Mirrors and Healing the Lived Experience of Shame in Alice Walker'sThe Color Purple
Authors: Love Kimberly S.
Published: July 2018

This article investigates the role of shame in shaping the epistolary form and aesthetic structure of Alice Walker's The Color Purple. I argue that the epistolary framing presents a crisis in the development of Celie's shamed self‐consciousness. To explain the connection between shame and Celie's self‐consciousness, I build on Jean Paul Sartre's theory of existentialism and explore three phases of Celie's evolution as it is represented in three phrases that I identify as significant transitions in the text: “I am,” “But I'm here,” and “It mine.” The first section examines how shame fractures Celie's self‐consciousness; the second focuses on how Celie positions and locates herself in the world; and the third explains how Celie mobilizes shame by connecting her self‐consciousness to a past that is shameful but also generative. I conclude by considering the novel's emergence in the Cosby/Reagan era in order to illuminate the mutual constitution of black familial pride and black racial shame.
Development and validation of a liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry method for the simultaneous quantification of serotonin and thromboxane B2 from activated platelets
Authors: Minet Valentine , Evrard Jonathan , Vancraeynest Christelle , Dogné Jean‐Michel , Mullier François , Pochet Lionel
Published: July 2018

Introduction

Availability of a rapid and reliable platelet activation assay avoiding limitations of current techniques would be valuable to diagnose heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia and platelet secretion disorders.

Objectives

The first aim was to develop and validate an ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐MS/MS) method to quantify in a single run TxB2 synthesized and serotonin released from platelets. The second aim was to use our method in association with light transmission aggregometry (LTA) to select good platelet responders for the diagnosis of HIT.

Methods

Electrospray ionization and chromatographic separation were optimized for the simultaneous dosage of serotonin and TxB2. The method was validated according to the European Medicines Agency (EMA) guideline for bioanalytical method validation. LTA was performed with monoclonal anti‐CD9 (clone ALB6) as platelet activator to select good responders.

Results

Detection was performed using a tandem mass spectrometer with alternated positive and negative electrospray ionization. The total run time was 6 minutes. The method was validated for calibration curves, precision, accuracy, lower limit of quantification, carry‐over, selectivity, and matrix effect. Platelet response to ALB6 was highly variable among donors.

Conclusion

We developed and validated a UHPLC‐MS/MS method for the simultaneous quantification of TxB2 and serotonin.
The caring behaviours of Danish pharmaconomists: insight for pharmacy technician practice around the world
Authors: Desselle Shane P , Hoh Ryan , Rossing Charlotte , Holmes Erin R , Gill Amanpreet , Zamora Lemuel
Published: July 2018

Objectives

Pharmacy workforce support personnel are being accorded greater scopes of practice, especially Danish pharmaconomists [pharmacy technician, experts in pharmaceuticals with a 3-year degree]. The aims of this study were to assess pharmaconomists’ caring behaviours and identify factors related to those behaviours.

Methods

A self-administered survey was distributed to a random sample of pharmaconomists in Denmark. The survey assessed caring behaviours using the Caring Behaviours Assessment and acquired data to ascertain their employers’ culture, respondent’s need for achievement, personality traits, commitment and work-related characteristics. Descriptive statistics provided insight into pharmacomomists’ predispositions, and bivariate analyses were used to identify associations of pharmaconomists’ caring with other variables under study.

Key findings

Over 300 pharmaconomists responded (52.2% response rate). Pharmaconomists reported generally high levels (well above the median on the 5-point scale) of caring behaviours. They reported higher levels (upper range of 5-point scale) of empathic behaviours, such as treating patients with respect and seeing things from the patient’s point of view but somewhat lower levels of encouraging the patient to talk about how they feel and praising the patient’s efforts, which could otherwise help patients cope with and improve their self-efficacy for disease management. Pharmaconomist caring was associated with practice setting, organisational culture and commitment to their employer.

Conclusions

Pharmaconomists reported performing behaviours that were empathic, but less frequently those associated with facilitating greater patient autonomy. Caring behaviours were associated with a number of variables related to practice setting. The findings can help to inform educational pedagogy and pharmacy personnel management.
Amyloid precursor protein is overexpressed in bladder cancer and contributes to the malignant bladder cancer cell behaviors
Authors: Zhang Dongqing , Zhou Changkuo , Li Yan , Gao Lijian , Pang Zhipeng , Yin Gang , Shi Benkang
Published: July 2018

Objectives

To investigate the expression of amyloid precursor protein in bladder cancer, and to study its role in malignant bladder cancer cell behaviors.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry and western blotting analysis were used to detect the amyloid precursor protein level in bladder cancer tissues and cell lines. The effect of amyloid precursor protein on bladder cancer cell proliferation, migration, invasion and cell cycle was evaluated by using small interfering ribonucleic acid. The levels of RAS, RAF, MEK, phosphorylated MEK, extracellular regulated protein kinases, phosphorylated extracellular regulated protein kinases, protein kinase B and phosphorylated protein kinase B were determined by western blot after amyloid precursor protein knockdown. The effect of amyloid precursor protein on the extracellular regulated protein kinases pathway was further evaluated using extracellular regulated protein kinases pathway agonist, ceramide C6.

Results

The expression of amyloid precursor protein was significantly increased in the human bladder cancer tissues compared with matched normal bladder tissues. The overexpression of amyloid precursor protein was significantly associated with tumor stage, tumor size, histological grade and lymph node metastasis. The proliferation, migration and invasion of human bladder cancer cells were significantly inhibited by the silencing of amyloid precursor protein. In addition, knockdown of amyloid precursor protein arrested the cell cycle progression of bladder cancer cells in the G2/M phase. Mechanistic analysis showed that knockdown of amyloid precursor protein significantly decreased the phosphorylation of extracellular regulated protein kinases. Ceramide C6 could rescue the malignant bladder cancer cell behaviors inhibited by the silencing of amyloid precursor protein.

Conclusions

Amyloid precursor protein is upregulated in bladder cancer, and might be closely associated with bladder cancer cell growth and survival. Amyloid precursor protein could potentially be used as a therapeutic target for bladder cancer treatment.
Mesurer le travail des enfants: qui faut‐il interroger?
Authors: JANZEN Sarah A.
Published: July 2018

La mesure du travail des enfants est une entreprise difficile et incertaine, mais cruciale puisque le ciblage de l'aide en dépend. Dans ce contexte, l'auteure montre à partir de données tanzaniennes, et en utilisant deux définitions du travail des enfants, que le choix du répondant influe considérablement sur les chiffres obtenus, supérieurs de 35 à 65 pour cent quand ce sont les déclarations des enfants qui sont prises en compte plutôt que celles des adultes. Le biais touche 14 à 31 pour cent de l'échantillon. L'écart diminue avec l'âge de l'enfant et se creuse lorsque le répondant adulte est hostile au travail des enfants.
Les transferts de fonds et leur effet sur les indicateurs du marché du travail: illustration par le cas mexicain
Authors: SHARMA Amarendra , CÁRDENAS Oscar
Published: July 2018

L'effet des envois de fonds sur les indicateurs du marché du travail est abondamment traité dans la littérature, à partir de microdonnées en général. Les macrodonnées, plus rarement utilisées, posent un problème d'endogénéité lié aux corrélations possibles de la variable relative aux transferts. Dans cette analyse, fondée sur des données de panel relatives au Mexique, les auteurs cherchent à contourner le problème en utilisant un estimateur GMM en système. Ils montrent que les envois de fonds élèvent les taux d'activité tout en réduisant le nombre des heures travaillées, la fréquence de l'emploi «critique» (c'est‐à‐dire de mauvaise qualité) et la durée des épisodes de chômage.
L'inspection du travail, un outil efficace quand les règles et sanctions varient selon les effectifs de l'entreprise? Analyse à partir du cas péruvien
Authors: VIOLLAZ Mariana
Published: July 2018

L'auteure analyse l'effet de la rigueur du dispositif de mise en application de la législation sur le respect effectif des droits au travail lorsque les règles et sanctions dépendent des effectifs de l'entreprise. À partir de données de l'enquête auprès des ménages du Pérou (2008–2013), elle examine l'influence en la matière de facteurs déjà connus (effet dissuasif de l'inspection, glissement vers le secteur informel) mais aussi celui du «redimensionnement», stratégie utilisée par les employeurs pour se prévaloir de régimes plus favorables. Elle montre que l'intensité du dispositif de contrôle n'influe que modérément sur le degré de conformité. L'effet «redimensionnement» est lui aussi limité.
Nonisothermal crystallization kinetics and stability of leucite and kalsilite from K2O‐Al2O3‐SiO2 glasses
Authors: Christopoulou Georgia , Modarresifar Farid , Allsopp Benjamin L. , Jones Alan H. , Bingham Paul A.
Published: July 2018

The crystallization mechanisms and elemental stability of leucite and kalsilite formed from K2O‐Al2O3‐SiO2 glasses were investigated by X‐ray powder diffraction (XRD), X‐ray fluorescence (XRF), Raman spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Glass samples with compositions along the leucite‐kalsilite tie‐line were produced by melt processing and were then heat‐treated at 850, 950, and 1250°C for times ranging from 5 minutes to 1000 hours. Kalsilite is an unstable phase that behaves as an intermediate precursor to leucite. Crystalline materials in which kalsilite is the major phase lose potassium upon prolonged heat treatment (1000 hours at 1250°C), in contrast to those with leucite, in which little or no compositional alteration is detected. The formation of leucite from stoichiometric kalsilite is accompanied by the formation of potassium‐doped alumina. The activation energies for leucite and kalsilite crystallization, determined via application of the Kissinger equation to thermal analysis data, were 579 and 548 kJ/mol, respectively. Finally, production of pure leucite can be achieved with more favorable crystallization kinetics when starting with off‐stoichiometric compositions.
Doping manganese into CsPb(Cl/Br)3 quantum dots glasses: Dual‐color emission and super thermal stability
Authors: He Meiling , Cheng Yinzi , Shen Linli , Zhang Huiling , Shen Chenyang , Xiang Weidong , Liang Xiaojuan
Published: July 2018

CsPbX3 (X = Cl, Br, I) perovskite quantum dots (QDs) represent bright and tunable photoluminescence, it is regrettable that the air instability and poor water resistant properties prevent their application in optoelectronic devices. At the same time, the toxicity of lead is also a major factor restricting its development. As a consequence, we demonstrate the partial replacement of Pb with Mn through conventional melt‐quenching and heat‐treatment method preparation of Mn‐doped CsPb(Cl/Br)3 QD glass. Mn‐doped CsPb(Cl/Br)3 QD glass exhibits high luminescent intensity like QDs. It is important that Mn‐doped CsPb(Cl/Br)3 QD glass with Dual‐Color maintained the same lattice structure like Mn‐doped CsPb(Cl/Br)3 QDs, and highly homogeneous spectral characteristics of Mn luminescence. The intensity and position of this Mn‐related emission are also tunable by altering the experimental parameters, such as the Pb‐to‐Mn feed ratio, annealing temperature. More importantly, the as‐prepared orange Mn‐doped CsPb(Cl/Br)3 QD glass was employed to fabricate white LEDs combined with a commercial Ce3+:Y3Al5O12 phosphor‐in‐glass (Ce‐PiG) on top of a InGaN blue chip. And the constructed WLEDs generate a warm white with an optimal luminous efficacy (LE) of 67.00 lm/W, a high CRI of 81.4, and a low CCT of 4902 K.
Association of mood disorders with cardiovascular disease risk factors in overweight and obese youth with elevated blood pressure
Authors: Medrano Leah , Amatya Kaushalendra , Vizthum Diane , Fadrowski Jeffrey J. , Brady Tammy M.
Published: July 2018

The American Heart Association defines mood disorders (MDO) as a tier‐II cardiovascular disease risk factor in children. Cross‐sectional analysis of overweight/obese children referred to an obesity hypertension clinic revealed 37% had a MDO (defined by clinical diagnosis or Patient Health Questionnaire‐9/‐A score ≥10), 55% had confirmed hypertension, and 75% left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). Children with MDOs were older, had greater measures of adiposity, and had a greater prevalence of hypertension (78%) than those without MDOs (42%; P = .04). Hypertensive children were 2.8 times more likely to have a MDO than those without (52% vs 18%; P = .02). Multivariable logistic regression revealed a statistically significant independent association of MDOs with hypertension (Odds Ratio [OR] 6.3, P = .048), but not LVH (LVMI ≥ 51 g/m2.7; OR 1.13, P = .88). Overall, the prevalence of MDOs in this group of overweight/obese children with elevated blood pressure was well above national averages, suggesting that at‐risk youth, particularly those with confirmed hypertension, should be regularly screened for MDOs.
Photobiomodulation and different macrophages phenotypes during muscle tissue repair
Authors: Souza Nadhia H. C. , Mesquita‐Ferrari Raquel A. , Rodrigues Maria Fernanda S. D. , da Silva Daniela F. T. , Ribeiro Beatriz G. , Alves Agnelo N. , Garcia Mónica P. , Nunes Fábio D. , da Silva Junior Evaldo M. , França Cristiane M. , Bussadori Sandra K. , Fernandes Kristianne P. S.
Published: July 2018

Macrophages play a very important role in the conduction of several regenerative processes mainly due to their plasticity and multiple functions. In the muscle repair process, while M1 macrophages regulate the inflammatory and proliferative phases, M2 (anti‐inflammatory) macrophages direct the differentiation and remodelling phases, leading to tissue regeneration. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of red and near infrared (NIR) photobiomodulation (PBM) on macrophage phenotypes and correlate these findings with the repair process following acute muscle injury. Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups: control; muscle injury; muscle injury + red PBM; and muscle injury + NIR PBM. After 2, 4 and 7 days, the tibialis anterior muscle was processed for analysis. Macrophages phenotypic profile was evaluated by immunohistochemistry and correlated with the different stages of the skeletal muscle repair by the qualitative and quantitative morphological analysis as well as by the evaluation of IL‐6, TNF‐α and TGF‐β mRNA expression. Photobiomodulation at both wavelengths was able to decrease the number of CD68+ (M1) macrophages 2 days after muscle injury and increase the number of CD163+ (M2) macrophages 7 days after injury. However, only NIR treatment was able to increase the number of CD206+ M2 macrophages (Day 2) and TGF‐β mRNA expression (Day 2, 4 and 7), favouring the repair process more expressivelly. Treatment with PBM was able to modulate the inflammation phase, optimize the transition from the inflammatory to the regeneration phase (mainly with NIR light) and improve the final step of regeneration, enhancing tissue repair.
Clinical associations between acetylcholine levels and cholinesterase activity in saliva and gingival crevicular fluid and periodontal diseases
Authors: Apatzidou Danae A. , Iskas Achilleas , Konstantinidis Antonis , Alghamdi Abeer M. , Tumelty Maria , Lappin David F. , Nile Christopher J.
Published: July 2018

Aim

The oral mucosa possesses a non‐neuronal cholinergic system. This study aimed to determine clinical evidence for a role of cholinergic mechanisms in the pathogenesis of periodontal diseases.

Materials and Methods

Fifty healthy participants, 52 patients with gingivitis and 49 with periodontitis were recruited. Full periodontal parameters were recorded and saliva and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) collected. Levels of acetylcholine and inflammatory mediators were quantified using commercially available assay kits. Acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase activities were measured using a published biochemical assay.

Results

Acetylcholine levels are significantly elevated in saliva and GCF, whereas GCF levels of butyrylcholinesterase activity are significantly decreased, in patients with periodontal diseases. Acetylcholine levels in saliva and GCF correlated positively with clinical markers of disease severity and with increased levels of IL‐17A and IL‐17F. In contrast, butyrylcholinesterase activity levels in GCF showed significant negative correlations with clinical markers of disease severity and IL‐17A and IL‐17F levels. None of the findings were due to smoking.

Conclusions

Elevated acetylcholine levels and reduced butyrylcholinesterase activity are clinically associated with periodontal diseases and elevated levels of IL‐17A and IL‐17F. Therefore, non‐neuronal cholinergic mechanisms may influence IL‐17 biology and the aetiopathogenesis of periodontal diseases and therefore are possible therapeutic targets.
Initial Cholinesterase Inhibitor Therapy Dose and Serious Events in Older Women and Men
Authors: Rochon Paula A. , Gruneir Andrea , Gill Sudeep S. , Wu Wei , Zhu Lynn , Herrmann Nathan , Bell Chaim M. , Austin Peter C. , Stall Nathan M. , McCarthy Lisa , Giannakeas Vasily , Alberga Amanda , Seitz Dallas P. , Normand Sharon‐Lise , Gurwitz Jerry H. , Bronskill Susan E.
Published: July 2018

Objectives

To examine dose‐related prescribing and short‐term serious events associated with initiation of cholinesterase inhibitor (ChEI) therapy.

Design

Retrospective, population‐based cohort study.

Setting

Ontario, Canada.

Participants

Women (n=47,829) and men (n=32,503) aged 66 and older who initiated a ChEI between April 1, 2010, and June 30, 2016.

Measurements

All‐cause serious events (emergency department (ED) visits, inpatient hospitalizations, death) within 30 days of ChEI initiation. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate adjusted rates of serious events.

Results

Overall, 4.8% of older adults were dispensed a lower‐than‐recommended ChEI starting dose, 87.9% a recommended dose, and 7.3% a higher‐than‐recommended starting dose. Eight thousand six hundred seventy‐one (10.8%) individuals experienced a serious event within 30 days of initiating therapy, primarily ED visits (8,540, 10.6%). Relative to those initiated on a recommended starting dose, those initiated on a higher dose had a significantly increased rate of serious events (women adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 1.50, 95% confidence interval (CI) =1.38–1.63; men aHR 1.31, 95% CI=1.19–1.45). Similar patterns were found for ED visits and inpatient hospitalizations but not death. The relative effect of higher‐than‐recommended starting dose dispensed vs. recommended starting dose dispensed was greater in women than it was in men: the number needed to harm was 22 (95% confidence interval (CI)=18–29) for women and 36 (95% CI= 26–61) for men.

Conclusion

Serious events immediately after initiation of ChEIs were associated with starting ChEI dose. This association was stronger in women.
Preliminary study of outcome‐based clinical practicum for undergraduate nursing students
Authors: Lee Kyunghwa , Kim Sanghee , Yang You Lee
Published: July 2018

Aim

A growing trend in South Korean nursing education is toward outcome‐based education. In response, there is now a greater emphasis on achieving the learning outcomes that are outlined in the curricula of outcome‐based education. This study aimed to describe the effectiveness of outcome‐based clinical practicum for nursing students.

Methods

In this preliminary longitudinal study, 62 third‐year nursing students were enrolled from a university in Seoul, Korea. Three parameters of proficiency were measured three times in the students for 1 year including: achievement of expected learning outcomes, nurses' core competence, and critical thinking. For the data analysis, a descriptive analysis and repeated‐measures ANOVA were used with the IBM SPSS v. 23.0 software program.

Results

Completing the outcome‐based clinical practicum was associated with a significantly enhanced achievement of expected learning outcomes, nurses' core competency, and critical thinking. All of the six expected learning outcomes significantly improved across the pre‐, mid‐, and postpracticum time points.

Conclusions

The outcome‐based clinical practicum improved the achievement of the expected learning outcomes, nurses’ core competency, and critical thinking of the nursing students. Further study is recommended to investigate students' and educators' qualitative experiences of outcome‐based clinical practicum.
Prograde metamorphic zircon formation in gabbroic rocks: The tale of microtextures
Authors: Beckman Victoria , Möller Charlotte
Published: July 2018

U–Pb zircon dates of metagabbroic rocks, such as eclogite, mafic granulite, and garnet amphibolite, are used to constrain the timing of tectonometamorphic evolution in orogens worldwide. For such interpretation, however, it is imperative to define at which stage of the P–T evolution that zircon crystallization took place: the prograde, peak, or retrograde stage. In order to accurately interpret metamorphic zircon ages, it is necessary to assess how the zircon crystallized or recrystallized, as zircon can dissolve or grow under different metamorphic conditions. Zircon is robust to retrograde isotopic resetting under most crustal conditions, but equilibrium Zr mass balance models have suggested that zircon is largely produced during retrograde metamorphism. This study takes a textural approach and identifies and reviews zircon‐forming textures and reactions in gabbro and metagabbro at different metamorphic grades, ranging from subgreenschist to upper amphibolite‐ and eclogite‐facies, and at different stages of metamorphic recrystallization. The textural relationships demonstrate that, in metagabbro, metamorphic zircon grows during the early stage of metamorphic recrystallization, independent of pressure and temperature. The mode of zircon formation is remarkably similar throughout different stages of metamorphic recrystallization, and the most significant source of Zr is igneous baddeleyite. Hence, in contrast to the equilibrium mass balance model, most zircon in metagabbro forms by prograde metamorphic reactions that consume igneous phases, and not by late retrograde reactions, and the onset of zircon forming reactions is governed primarily by the introduction of a hydrous fluid, commonly accompanied by ductile deformation.
Dysregulation of schizophrenia‐related aquaporin 3 through disruption of paranode influences neuronal viability
Authors: Kunisawa Kazuo , Shimizu Takeshi , Kushima Itaru , Aleksic Branko , Mori Daisuke , Osanai Yasuyuki , Kobayashi Kenta , Taylor Anna M. , Bhat Manzoor A. , Hayashi Akiko , Baba Hiroko , Ozaki Norio , Ikenaka Kazuhiro
Published: July 2018

Myelinated axons segregate the axonal membrane into four defined regions: the node of Ranvier, paranode, juxtaparanode, and internode. The paranodal junction consists of specific component proteins, such as neurofascin155 (NF155) on the glial side, and Caspr and Contactin on the axonal side. Although paranodal junctions are thought to play crucial roles in rapid saltatory conduction and nodal assembly, the role of their interaction with neurons is not fully understood. In a previous study, conditional NF155 knockout in oligodendrocytes led to disorganization of the paranodal junctions. To examine if disruption of paranodal junctions affects neuronal gene expression, we prepared total RNA from the retina of NF155 conditional knockout, and performed expression analysis. We found that the expression level of 433 genes changed in response to paranodal junction ablation. Interestingly, expression of aquaporin 3 (AQP3) was significantly reduced in NF155 conditional knockout mice, but not in cerebroside sulfotransferase knockout (CST‐KO) mice, whose paranodes are not originally formed during development. Copy number variations have an important role in the etiology of schizophrenia (SCZ). We observed rare duplications of AQP3 in SCZ patients, suggesting a correlation between abnormal AQP3 expression and SCZ. To determine if AQP3 over‐expression in NF155 conditional knockout mice influences neuronal function, we performed adeno‐associated virus (AAV)‐mediated over‐expression of AQP3 in the motor cortex of mice and found a significant increase in caspase 3‐dependent neuronal apoptosis in AQP3‐transduced cells. This study may provide new insights into therapeutic approaches for SCZ by regulating AQP3 expression, which is associated with paranodal disruption.

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Intraganglionic macrophages: a new population of cells in the enteric ganglia
Authors: Dora David , Arciero Emily , Hotta Ryo , Barad Csilla , Bhave Sukhada , Kovacs Tamas , Balic Adam , Goldstein Allan M. , Nagy Nandor
Published: July 2018

The enteric nervous system shares embryological, morphological, neurochemical, and functional features with the central nervous system. In addition to neurons and glia, the CNS includes a third component, microglia, which are functionally and immunophenotypically similar to macrophages, but a similar cell type has not previously been identified in enteric ganglia. In this study we identify a population of macrophages in the enteric ganglia, intermingling with the neurons and glia. These intraganglionic macrophages (IMs) are highly ramified and express the hematopoietic marker CD45, major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II antigen, and chB6, a marker specific for B cells and microglia in avians. These IMs do not express antigens typically associated with T cells or dendritic cells. The CD45+/ChB6+/MHCII+ signature supports a hematopoietic origin and this was confirmed using intestinal chimeras in GFP‐transgenic chick embryos. The presence of green fluorescent protein positive (GFP+)/CD45+ cells in the intestinal graft ENS confirms that IMs residing within enteric ganglia have a hematopoietic origin. IMs are also found in the ganglia of CSF1RGFP chicken and CX3CR1GFP mice. Based on the expression pattern and location of IMs in avians and rodents, we conclude that they represent a novel non‐neural crest‐derived microglia‐like cell population within the enteric ganglia.
Effect of a botanical cleansing lotion on skin sebum and erythema of the face: A randomized controlled blinded half‐side comparison
Authors: Weber Natalja , Schwabe Kay , Schempp Christoph M , Wölfle Ute
Published: July 2018

Background

Elevated levels of skin sebum are associated with the growth of Propionibacterium acnes. Intensive degreasing of the skin reduces Propionibacterium acnes but also may cause skin irritation.

Aims

We assessed the degreasing effect and skin tolerability of a botanical face cleanser with hops and willow bark extract and disodium cocoyl glutamate as mild cleansing agent compared to a standard face cleanser with sodium laureth sulfate (SLES).

Materials and Methods

A total of 21 healthy volunteers with normal to oily skin were enrolled in this study. Both cleansers were applied twice a day on the left or right side of the forehead for 15 days in a standardized manner. Bioengineering measurements were performed on day 8 and 15 and on day 17 after an application break of 48 hours. The sebum level was determined using a Sebumeter®, and skin redness was measured using a Mexameter®.

Results

The botanical face cleanser significantly reduced the sebum level (P < .01) in the test area on day 17. The SLES containing cleanser showed a statistically relevant degreasing effect already on day 15, but after the application break the sebum level increased again on day 17. None of the cleansers caused skin irritation as determined by skin redness measurements.

Conclusions

In contrast to the SLES containing cleanser, the botanical skin cleanser with hops and willow bark extract had a continuous degreasing effect without reactive seborrhoe after the treatment break. Skin cleansing without SLES might be advantageous for sensitive skin.
Unidirectional barbed suture for vaginal cuff closure without backward stitch in total laparoscopic hysterectomy
Authors: Misirlioglu Selim , Boza Aysen , Arslan Tonguc , Urman Bulent , Taskiran Cagatay
Published: July 2018

Aim

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of unidirectional barbed suture technique for vaginal cuff closure in total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH).

Methods

In a retrospective chart review, data were analyzed from 165 patients who underwent a TLH with an unidirectional barbed suture technique for vaginal cuff closure from January 2012 to June 2016 at tertiary‐care university‐based teaching hospital and academic affiliated hospital. Vaginal cuff was closed by single layer 3/0 V‐Loc unidirectional 9″, 180 day Absorbable Wound Closure Device (Covidien Healthcare, Mansfield, MA) and the suture was not stitched backward to secure distal end.

Results

A total of 165 patients were included and the median age was 50 years (range, 35–84 years). The median completion time for hysterectomy time was 100 min (range, 40–240 min) and the median vaginal cuff closure time was 7 min (range, 4–15 min). The median estimated blood loss was 87.8 mL (range 30–250 mL) and the median uterine weight was 200 g (range, 40–900 g). Intraoperative complication included bladder perforation (1.2%) and postoperative complications were vaginal cuff dehiscence (1.8%), cuff cellulitis (0.6%), vesicovaginal fistula (0.6%) and unexplained fever (0.6%).

Conclusion

According to the results of current study, the use of unidirectional barbed suture without backward stitching appears to be safe for the vaginal cuff closure in TLH.
Intracoronary focal nitroglycerin injection through drilled balloon is very effective in the resolution of coronary spasm versus into proximal coronary artery: A prospective randomized comparison study
Authors: Balaban Yakup , Kaya Ahmet , Satilmisoglu Mustafa H. , Balaban Muhammet B.
Published: July 2018

Background

In this study, we aimed to compare the effectiveness and safety of NTG administration via catheter and local NTG infusion through a perforated balloon in order to prevent coronary spasm from developing during percutaneous intervention.

Method

The study began with 1:1 randomization into two groups of a total of 1688 patients scheduled for PCT. A total of 91 patients in the proximal group who developed lesions received 500 mcg NTG through a catheter, while 85 patients in the local group with lesions developed during the procedure received 500 mcg local NTG through a perforated balloon. After excluding patients who did not develop lesions during the procedure, and those without any change in the lesion with NTG application, the study was completed with 74 patients in the local group, and 70 patients in the proximal group.

Results

Both groups were similar in terms of basic characteristics. Incidences of procedure‐related hypotension (10% vs 52%, P < 0.001) and tachycardia (20% vs 57%, P < 0.001) were significantly lower in the local NTG group. Success in addressing spasm was significantly higher in the local NTG than in the proximal NTG group (91.66 ± 14.09% vs 75.99 ± 16.86%, P < 0.001).

Discussion

Intracoronary injection with a perforated balloon, a simple technique introduced worldwide with our publication, can be used for administration of local NTG. Using this method, NTG can be better delivered with the perforated balloon to the vascular epithelium because of lower output, higher eruption rate, and perpendicularity to the endothelium. In this application, the balloon can better deliver drugs to the desired area via back‐and‐forth movements using a 0.014 guidewire.

Conclusion

The local administration of NTG to a spasming area through a perforated balloon is more effective and safer than the proximal administration of NTG.
Societal Constitutions in Transnational Regimes: An Introduction
Authors: Přibáň Jiří
Published: July 2018

This collection is the outcome of ‘Societal Constitutions in Transnational Regimes’, the second annual conference of Cardiff University's Centre of Law and Society, held at the School of Law and Politics, Cardiff University, Cardiff, Wales, 30 June–1 July 2017.
The Citizen of Many Worlds: Societal Constitutionalism and the Antinomies of Democracy
Authors: Thornhill Chris
Published: July 2018

This article argues that Gunther Teubner's theory of societal constitutionalism can be used to examine the realities of citizenship in contemporary society. Teubner's thought illuminates how the rise of global law has directed classical practices of citizenship – claims to rights and participation in law making – away from centralized political institutions, and located them in distinct functional spheres. On this basis, we see that the integration of the democratic citizen only evolved as society assumed an acentric sectoral design, and we observe that the core processes of national integration only approached completion in a post‐national constellation. However, it is also argued here that the contemporary figure of the citizen appears, not as a figure that contradicts, but as a figure that arises directly from the classical form of national citizenship. This fact may be obscured by Teubner's emphasis on societal constitutionalism as a normative construct that emerges beyond the state.
Regulating Scientific Research: A Constitutional Moment?
Authors: Verschraegen Gert
Published: July 2018

This article discusses how and to what extent a transnational societal constitution for science is emerging. It outlines how specific norms and rules secure the autonomy of science (the ‘constitutive function') as well as defining the limits of the operations of science with respect to other social systems and the individuals in their environments (the ‘limitative function'). It also discusses to what extent complex trends and dynamics in the current science system can be understood in terms of a constitutional recalibration, in which the unleashed dynamism of scientific and technological innovation is counteracted by a varied array of norm‐producing initiatives, such as the increasing importance of ethics bodies in research, public engagement strategies, and initiatives aimed at ‘open science’ and ‘responsible research and innovation'.
When Societal Constitutionalism Encounters Private International Law: Of Pluralism, Distribution, and ‘Chronotopes'
Authors: Watt Horatia Muir
Published: July 2018

If societal constitutions can be defined as forms of self‐constituting power beyond the confines of classical forms of authority and legal constraint in a post‐national or global world, then private international law can make several offerings to transnational regime theory, on the condition, however, of understanding the discipline, beyond its technical component, as a receptacle for ideas about the place of the foreign within the host legal system. Indeed, its encounter with societal constitutionalism serves to bring to the surface some of its less familiar, or less theorized, dimensions. The mode of the relationship between the two disciplines can therefore be seen as one of mutually constitutive co‐production. Thus, private international law offers a methodological template for transnational constitutional pluralism, puts into practice fundamental requirements of democracy beyond the state, and suggests ways of understanding the complex sequences of time/space that are implicated in the interactions between transnational regimes.
Global Law Before the State? On Canon Law as a Transnational Regime
Authors: Augsberg Ino
Published: July 2018

According to Harold Berman, modern Western law is based on the establishment of canon law in the eleventh and twelfth centuries. By this account, the original role‐model for our modern concept of law is already transnational, and the idea of law being a characteristic instrument of nation‐states is only a subsequent event. The article discusses this thesis and scrutinizes its relevance for current attempts to develop a concept of transnational law and transnational constitutionalism. In doing so, it also raises a critical question: if our modern concepts of law are based on canon law, is it possible that some main characteristics still reflect this origin? Could it be that a certain ‘motif of the unity of the constitution’ – a motif which, according to Gunther Teubner, underlies all kinds of societal constitutionalism, even those insisting on social pluralism – is a hidden legacy of canon law? And if so, what might be the alternative?
The efficacy of dextrose prolotherapy over placebo for temporomandibular joint hypermobility: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Nagori Shakil Ahmed , Jose Anson , Gopalakrishnan Venkatesan , Roy Indranil Deb , Chattopadhyay Probodh K. , Roychoudhury Ajoy
Published: July 2018

Objective

The aim of the systematic review was to analyse the available evidence in order to assess the efficacy of dextrose prolotherapy in improving outcomes in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) hypermobility patients as compared to placebo.

Methods

An electronic search of PubMed, Scopus, CENTRAL and Google scholar databases was performed for English language papers published up to February 2018. Randomised clinical trials (RCTs) and controlled clinical trials (CCTs) comparing dextrose prolotherapy with placebo for TMJ hypermobility were included.

Results

Three RCTs were included in the review. Frequency of subluxation/dislocation was reported by two trials which found no difference between dextrose and placebo. A statistical significant difference in reduction of MMO with the use of dextrose prolotherapy was seen on pooling of data (random: MD = −3.32, 95% CI −5.26 to −1.28; P = 0.0008; I2 = 0%). A statistical significant difference in pain reduction was also seen with dextrose as compared to placebo (random: MD = −1, 95% CI −1.58 to −0.42; P = 0.0007; I2 = 0%).

Conclusion

Within the limitations of the study, dextrose prolotherapy may cause significant reduction in mouth opening and pain associated with TMJ hypermobility. Conclusions with regard to reduction of episodes of subluxation/dislocation cannot be drawn. There is a need of more high‐quality RCTs with larger sample size and homogenous prolotherapy protocol to draw stronger conclusions on the effect of dextrose prolotherapy in patients with TMJ hypermobility.
Partial replacement of NaCl with KCl in bread: Effect on sensory characteristics and consumer perception
Authors: Antúnez Lucía , Giménez Ana , Vidal Leticia , Ares Gastón
Published: July 2018

Sodium reduction strategies that fully or partially compensate for the effect of reducing sodium on the sensoy profile of foods have been proposed as a cost‐effective alternative to decrease dietary sodium intake at the population level. The present work aimed at exploring the effect of partially replacing NaCl with KCl on the sensory characteristics and hedonic perception of toast bread. Equivalent salty concentration of NaCl : KCl blends were estimated relative to different NaCl concentrations, using paired comparisons with a panel of trained assessors. The influence of partially replacing NaCl by KCl on the dynamic sensory profile of toast breads was assessed using the Temporal Check‐all‐that‐apply approach with a trained panel. Finally, a consumer study was carried out to evaluate consumers' sensory and hedonic perception of toast breads produced by partially replacing 30% NaCl with KCl. Results from the present work suggest that KCl can be deemed effective at compensating for saltiness intensity in sodium reduced toast breads. Partial replacement of 30% NaCl with KCl did not significantly affect the sensory characteristics of toast breads. However, NaCl replacement equal or higher than 40% caused an increase in bitterness, off‐flavor, and metallic flavor. Heterogeneity in consumer hedonic reaction toward partial replacement of NaCl with KCl was observed, but mainly associated to differences in texture perception.

Practical applications

In the context of growing concerns about the excessive sodium intake at the population level, results from the present work showed that 30% replacement of NaCl with KCl did not significantly affect consumers' sensory and hedonic perception of toast breads. This approach seems to be effective at compensating for saltiness intensity and proved to be promising for the development of low‐sodium food products.
Non‐celiac gluten or wheat sensitivity: It's complicated!
Authors: Pinto‐Sanchez Maria I. , Verdu Elena F.
Published: July 2018

In the last 30 years, non‐celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) has emerged as an intriguing and controversial topic in gastroenterology. The diagnosis of NCGS/NCWS requires a symptomatic reaction to gluten, or wheat‐containing food, and remission of symptoms with gluten or wheat challenge, in patients in whom celiac disease and wheat allergy have been excluded. There have been several randomized clinical trials (RCT) addressing this issue which have produced controversial results. In this issue of Neurogastroenterology and Motility, a double‐blind placebo‐controlled randomized trial in patients with suspected NCGS on GFD, did not reproduce symptoms after gluten intake compared to placebo. This mini‐review addresses outstanding issues related to the diagnosis of NCGS/NCWS as well as areas of interest for future studies that could explain, in part, the controversy in this area.
CLC‐Nt1 affects Potato Virus Y infection via regulation of endoplasmic reticulum luminal Ph
Authors: Sun Hangjun , Shen Lili , Qin Yuanxia , Liu Xiaowei , Hao Kaiqiang , Li Ying , Wang Jie , Yang Jinguang , Wang Fenglong
Published: July 2018

Chloride channel (CLC) proteins are important anion transporters conserved in organisms ranging from bacteria and yeast to plants and animals. According to sequence comparison, some plant CLCs are predicted to function as Cl−/H+ antiporters, but not Cl− channels. However, no direct evidence was provided to verify the role of these plant CLCs in regulating the pH of the intracellular compartment.

We identified tobacco CLC‐Nt1 interacting with the Potato virus Y (PVY) 6K2 protein. To investigate its physiological function, homologous genes of CLC‐Nt1 in Nicotiana benthamiana were knocked out using the CRISPR/Cas9 system. Complementation experiments were subsequently performed by expression of wild‐type or point‐mutated CLC‐Nt1 in knockout mutants.

The data presented herein demonstrate that CLC‐Nt1 is localized at endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Using a pH‐sensitive fluorescent protein (pHluorin), we found that loss of CLC‐Nt1 function resulted in a decreased ER luminal pH. Secreted GFP (secGFP) was retained mostly in ER in knockout mutants, indicating that CLC‐Nt1 is also involved in protein secretion.

PVY infection induced a rise in ER luminal pH, which was dependent on functional CLC‐Nt1. By contrast, loss of CLC‐Nt1 function inhibited PVY intracellular replication and systemic infection. We propose that PVY alters ER luminal pH for infection in a CLC‐Nt1‐dependent manner.
What is behind the variation in mate quality dependent sex ratio adjustment? – A meta‐analysis
Authors: Szász Eszter , Garamszegi László Zsolt , Rosivall Balázs
Published: July 2018

Theory predicts that parents adjust the sex ratio of their brood to the sexually selected traits of their mate because the reproductive success of sons may be more dependent on inherited paternal attractiveness than that of daughters. Empirical studies vary in terms of whether they support the theory, and this variation has often been regarded as evidence against sex ratio adjustment or has been ascribed to methodological differences. Applying phylogenetic meta‐analyses, we aimed to find biological explanations for the variation observed in songbirds. In particular, we tested the role extra‐pair paternity, because infidelity occurs in the majority of these species and may reduce the adaptive value of adjusting brood sex ratio to the phenotype of the social mate. However, we found that the variation in effect sizes was unrelated to the proportion of extra‐pair paternity. Thus future studies should consider that mate quality dependent sex ratio adjustment may be driven by direct (material) rather than indirect (genetic) benefits. We also tested if the effect sizes are influenced by whether the focal male trait is indeed under sexual selection as it is assumed by the sex allocation theory. We found that for male traits with proven role in sexual selection, effect sizes significantly differed from the null expectation of random production of sons and daughters. For male traits with only presumed sexual role in sexual selection, the deviation from the null expectation was less convincing, and the effect sizes were significantly smaller. This result indicates that studies that neglect the assumptions of the hypotheses concerned, may lead to the underestimation of the mean effect size and, eventually, false conclusions.
Restoration Ecology's silver jubilee: innovation, debate, and creating a future for restoration ecology
Authors: Hobbs Richard J.
Published: July 2018

At a time when the science and practice of restoration ecology is adapting to ongoing environmental and social change, innovations in both methods and concepts are essential. Encouraging innovation means allowing open debate about alternative approaches that may add to the toolbox available for restoration. Such approaches are usually being examined as additions to, rather than substitutes for, traditional restoration practices. Recent debate has focused on the scope and intent of restoration as defined in documents such as the Society for Ecological Restoration Standards. There is a mismatch between the default aim in the standards of full restoration to a native reference system and the goals of international restoration efforts that have a broader and more functional focus. The next generation of restoration scientists and practitioners will need to navigate these issues to ensure that restoration remains effective and relevant. This will require, amongst other things, ongoing learning, sharing information and insights, humility, objectivity, continuous examination of assumptions, and questioning current practices and perspectives.
The Contributions of Paradata and Features of Respondents, Interviewers and Survey Agencies to Panel Co-Operation in the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe
Authors: Bristle Johanna , Celidoni Martina , Dal Bianco Chiara , Weber Guglielmo
Published: July 2018

The paper deals with panel co-operation in a cross-national, fully harmonized face-to-face survey. Our outcome of interest is panel co-operation in the fourth wave of the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe. Following a multilevel approach, we focus on the contribution of paradata at three levels: fieldwork strategies at the survey agency level, features of the (current) interviewer and paradata describing respondents’ interview experience from the previous wave. Our results highlight the importance of respondents’ prior interview experience, and of interviewers’ quality of work and experience. We also find that survey agency practice matters: daily communication between fieldwork co-ordinators and interviewers is positively associated with panel co-operation.