bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crystal structure of d(CCGGGGTACCCCGG)2at 1.4 Å resolution
Authors: Karthik Selvam , Thirugnanasambandam Arunachalam , Mandal Pradeep Kumar , Gautham Namasivayam
Published: April 2017

The X-ray crystal structure of the DNA tetradecamer sequence d(CCGGGGTACCCCGG)2is reported at 1.4 Å resolution in the tetragonal space groupP41212. The sequence was designed to fold as a four-way junction. However, it forms an A-type double helix in the presence of barium chloride. The metal ion could not be identified in the electron-density map. The crystallographic asymmetric unit consists of one A-type double helix with 12 base pairs per turn, in contrast to 11 base pairs per turn for canonical A-DNA. A large number of solvent molecules have been identified in both the grooves of the duplex and around the backbone phosphate groups.
Transcription factor Rv0081 fromMycobacterium tuberculosis: purification, crystallization and initial crystallographic analysis
Authors: Dong Shishang , Ding Zhenzhen , Wang Yu , Yang Yan , Mao Yonghong , Wang Ying
Published: April 2017

Because of its high infectivity and pathogenicity,Mycobacterium tuberculosisis a serious threat to human health. While the transcription-regulatory system ofM. tuberculosisremains incompletely understood, Rv0081, an essential regulatory hub, is known to mediate the initial response to hypoxia in the long-term survival ofM. tuberculosis. Here, the production, crystallization and initial X-ray crystallographic analysis of Rv0081 are reported. The crystals of Rv0081 belonged to space groupP62, with unit-cell parametersa= 67.48,b = 67.48,c = 40.84 Å, γ = 120°. The Matthews coefficient is 2.09 Å3 Da−1, assuming the presence of one molecule in the asymmetric unit, with a corresponding solvent content of 41.27%. Phasing of the native crystal form of Rv0081 was performed by molecular replacement. Currently, the structure has been refined to 2.00 Å resolution with anRworkof 25.99% and anRfreeof 30.88%.
Camelid nanobodies used as crystallization chaperones for different constructs of PorM, a component of the type IX secretion system fromPorphyromonas gingivalis
Authors: Duhoo Yoan , Roche Jennifer , Trinh Thi Trang Nhung , Desmyter Aline , Gaubert Anaïs , Kellenberger Christine , Cambillau Christian , Roussel Alain , Leone Philippe
Published: April 2017

PorM is a membrane protein that is involved in the assembly of the type IX secretion system (T9SS) inPorphyromonas gingivalis, a major bacterial pathogen that is responsible for periodontal disease in humans. In the context of structural studies of PorM to better understand T9SS assembly, four camelid nanobodies were selected, produced and purified, and their specific interaction with the N-terminal or C-terminal part of the periplasmic domain of PorM was investigated. Diffracting crystals were also obtained, and the structures of the four nanobodies were solved by molecular replacement. Furthermore, two nanobodies were used as crystallization chaperones and turned out to be valuable tools in the structure-determination process of the periplasmic domain of PorM.
Structural study of the X-ray-induced enzymatic reduction of molecular oxygen to water bySteccherinum murashkinskyilaccase: insights into the reaction mechanism
Authors: Polyakov K. M. , Gavryushov S. , Ivanova S. , Fedorova T. V. , Glazunova O. A. , Popov A. N. , Koroleva O. V.
Published: April 2017

The laccase fromSteccherinum murashkinskyiis a member of the large family of multicopper oxidases that catalyze the oxidation of a wide range of organic and inorganic substrates, accompanied by the reduction of dioxygen to water. The reducing properties of X-ray radiation and the high quality of the laccase crystals allow the study of the catalytic reduction of dioxygen to water directly in a crystal. A series of diffraction data sets with increasing absorbed radiation dose were collected from a single crystal ofSteccherinum murashkinskyilaccase at 1.35 Å resolution. Changes in the active-site structure associated with the reduction of molecular oxygen to water on increasing the absorbed dose of ionizing radiation were detected. The structures in the series are mixtures of different states of the enzyme–substrate complex. Nevertheless, it was possible to interpret these structures as complexes of various oxygen ligands with copper ions in different oxidation states. The results allowed the mechanism of oxygen reduction catalyzed by laccases to be refined.
Comparing the factors that influence the adoption of CPFR by retailers and suppliers
Authors: Fu Hsin-Pin
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to compare the factors that influenced the adoption of a Collaborative Planning, Forecasting, and Replenishment (CPFR) model by a retailer that is a lifestyle accessories chain, and a supplier that is a food manufacturer.

Design/methodology/approach

The study started with the construction of a questionnaire based on the factors of the theoretical framework of a Technology-Organization-Environment that were discovered through a literature review and distribution of the questionnaire to experts. The fuzzy analytical hierarchy process method was used to determine the weights (importance) of these factors.

Findings

The study found that among the top ten factors, two are the same for both the retailer and the supplier – “partner trust and communication,” and “support of top managers” – while the other factors differ. In addition, it was found that the supplier pays more attention to the environmental issues, while the retailer focuses on organizational issues when introducing a CPFR model.

Practical implications

This study offers five practical implications for the successful adoption of a CPFR model: first, top management support and trusting relationship building are important factors for both the retailer and the supplier; second, adoption of CPFR is a management issue, rather than a technological issue; third, retailers lead more successfully; fourth, a careful selection of collaborative partners is essential; and finally, an innovative model should be constructed.

Originality/value

The results can serve as a reference to help enterprises to better allocate their resources, according to the weights of the important adoption factors when they are formulating their strategies for the adoption of CPFR. Decisions based upon this guideline can increase the success rate of CPFR adoptions and can ensure better allocation of resources.
Estimation of salt intake of normotensive subjects of Jaipur City
Authors: Dhemla Sonal , Varma Kanika
Published: April 2017

Purpose

There has been a dramatic increase in hypertension in developing countries along with changes in food consumption patterns contributing to higher levels of sodium. Evidence shows that a high level of sodium intake is a major cause of high blood pressure and other heart diseases along with other associated diseases. Therefore, it is important to determine current consumption levels of sodium in a population to facilitate the development and implementation of any specific salt reduction program.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was conducted among 60 subjects (25-45 years) residing in Jaipur City. Subjects’ sodium consumption levels were assessed via assessment of 24-h urinary sodium excretion levels, the “gold standard” method advocated by WHO/PAHO (2010) and 24-h dietary recall for three days including one holiday.

Findings

The findings of the study indicated that the subjects were found to be consuming higher levels of sodium (males, 5,792 mg/d; females, 5,911 mg/d) than recommended by WHO, i.e. less than 2,300 mg/d. Completeness of urine was confirmed by fat-free mass determined by electrical bio-impedance (47.6 ± 7.6 kg) and determined by using 24-h urinary excretion of creatinine (33.7 ± 10.1 kg). Two variables were found to be significantly correlated (r = 0.52, p = 0.00). Assuming that the sodium eliminated in the urine comes from the salt only, this excretion would correspond with a dietary salt intake of 14.71 and 15.01 g/d in males and females, respectively. Dietary sodium intake was reported to be 4,133 ± 1,111 mg/day and 3,953 ± 945 mg/d in males and females, respectively. A non-significant difference was found between the two variables. Urinary sodium excretion correlated non-significantly with systolic and diastolic blood pressure figures (r = 0.09 and r = −0.02, respectively).

Research limitations/implications

The limitations of this study included the small sample size. Purposive sampling was adopted due to difficulty in obtaining urine sample and required willingness of the respondent. This may give fair robust estimate.

Originality/value

The present results will help provide new data about the baseline salt intake in young and middle-aged population of Jaipur City and will further help the concerned agencies to plan meaningful strategies to reduce salt intake, and it must involve public education and awareness to change the consumption pattern.
Optimization of olive pomace enzymatic hydrolysis for fermentable sugar production
Authors: Abo Chameh Ghassan , Kheder Fadi , Karabet Francois
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper was to find out the appropriate enzymatic hydrolysis conditions of alkali pretreated olive pomace (OP) which enable maximum yield of reducing sugar.

Design/methodology/approach

The commercial enzymatic preparation (Viscozyme®L) was used for the hydrolysis of OP. The effects of pretreatment, time, temperature, pH, enzyme quantity and substrate loading on the hydrolysis yield were investigated.

Findings

This study showed that enzymatic hydrolysis of OP using Viscozyme®L can be successfully performed at 50°C. Alkaline pretreatment step of OP prior the enzymatic hydrolysis was indispensable. The hydrolysis yield of alkaline pretreated OP was 2.6 times higher than the hydrolysis yield of untreated OP. Highest hydrolysis yield (33.5 ± 1.5 per cent) was achieved after 24 h using 1 per cent (w/v) OP load in the presence of 100 μl Viscozyme®L at 50°C and pH 5.5 with mixing rate of 100 rpm (p= 0.05).

Originality/value

Reaction time, temperature, pH value and enzyme quantity were found to have a significant effect on enzymatic hydrolysis yield of alkali pretreated of OP. Although high-solid loadings of OP lowered the hydrolysis yield, it produced higher concentration of reducing sugars, which may render the OP conversion process more economically feasible.
Quality characteristics and overall acceptability of steamed and boiled blue whiting fish (Micromesistius poutassou) cracker
Authors: Omoba Olufunmilayo Sade , Azeez Hafsat Idowu
Published: April 2017

Purpose

This paper focuses on the quality characteristics of steamed and boiled blue whiting fish (Micromesistius poutassou) cracker, with the aim of encouraging and promoting the use of this small pelagic inexpensive, readily available fish in food production and reducing post-harvest losses of the fish.

Design/methodology/approach

The blue whiting fish cracker was developed using boiling and steaming methods. Minced blue whiting fish meat was mixed with cassava starch in the ratio of 50:50, and other ingredients were incorporated. The dough obtained was divided into two and stuffed into two different muslin cloths. One of the stuffed dough was steamed (100°C for 15 min), whereas the other was boiled in water for 90 min. The boiled and steamed doughs were cooled at 4°C for 12 h, sliced at 2 mm thickness and oven dried at 50°C for 12 h to obtain non-expanded blue whiting fish crackers. The non-expanded blue whiting fish crackers were fried in vegetable oil to obtain expanded blue whiting fish crackers. The quality characteristics of the expanded crackers were determined using standard methods, and data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance; the mean scores were compared using Turkey’s (HSD) test. The sensory evaluation was done using 25 untrained panellists, and results were analysed statistically.

Findings

The study revealed the steamed fish cracker has significantly higher nutritional composition in terms of the proximate, mineral, fatty acid and amino acid compositions. Potassium was the most predominant mineral in the crackers, and copper was the least predominant mineral. The saturated fatty acid contents were 43.2 per cent (steamed) and 48.6 per cent (boiled), whereas the unsaturated fatty acid contents were 55.5 (steamed) and 48.5 per cent (boiled). The n6/n3 ratio obtained for steamed and boiled fish cracker was 4.0. The steamed fish cracker had a higher L* value, whereas the Brown index (100 − L*) of the steamed fish cracker was lower (33.4) than that of the boiled fish cracker. The linear expansion was higher for the boiled blue whiting fish crackers (41.8 per cent). The boiled blue whiting fish cracker had higher expanded starch structure than the steamed blue whiting fish cracker. The aroma and taste were highly correlated with overall acceptability.

Originality/value

The paper reports the quality characteristics and overall acceptability of steamed and boiled blue whiting fish crackers.
Data collaboratives as “bazaars”?
Authors: Susha Iryna , Janssen Marijn , Verhulst Stefaan
Published: April 2017

Purpose

In “data collaboratives”, private and public organizations coordinate their activities to leverage data to address a societal challenge. This paper aims to focus on analyzing challenges and coordination mechanisms of data collaboratives.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses coordination theory to identify and discuss the coordination problems and coordination mechanisms associated with data collaboratives. The authors also use a taxonomy of data collaborative forms from a previous empirical study to discuss how different forms of data collaboratives may require different coordination mechanisms.

Findings

The study analyzed data collaboratives from the perspective of organizational and task levels. At the organizational level, the authors argue that data collaboratives present an example of the bazaar form of coordination. At the task level, the authors identified five coordination problems and discussed potential coordination mechanisms to address them, such as coordination by negotiation, by third party, by standardization, to name a few.

Research limitations/implications

This study is one of the first few to systematically analyze the phenomenon of “data collaboratives”.

Practical implications

This study can help practitioners better understand the coordination challenges they may face when initiating a data collaborative and to develop successful data collaboratives by using coordination mechanisms to mitigate these challenges.

Originality/value

Data collaboratives are a novel form of data-driven initiatives which have seen rapid experimentation lately. This study draws attention to this concept in the academic literature and highlights some of the complexities of organizing data collaboratives in practice.
Open data driven public accountability
Authors: Lourenço Rui Pedro , Piotrowski Suzanne , Ingrams Alex
Published: April 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to analyse extant literature on open data, distinguish and categorize the strands of public accountability research and use the results to provide better clarity in the concept of open data-driven public accountability.

Design/methodology/approach

Systematic review of 135 open data articles and 155 accountability articles from the e-government reference library. A multi-stage analysis results in 12 articles which are categorized using Bovens’ (2007) accountability theory of information, discussion and consequences. Conceptual development, using the literature analysis, forms the final section of the paper.

Findings

Research demonstrates that a range of open data topics has been advanced. However, just 12 articles exist that simultaneously address open data and accountability theory. Of the total 155 public accountability articles, the preponderant focus is on the information (N = 25) and discussion (N = 7) stages of the accountability process. Just one article focuses on the complete accountability process. To address this problem, the characterization of open (government) data-driven public accountability establishes conceptual crispness and clarity.

Originality/value

Public accountability theory on open government has become overshadowed by social and economic value perspectives. This paper clarifies and advances the open data-driven public accountability perspective. It takes stock of public accountability research, delimits the key issues and questions and highlights the next steps needed for developing scholarship.
Conceptualizing citizen participation in open data use at the city level
Authors: Hivon Julien , Titah Ryad
Published: April 2017

Purpose

Open data initiatives represent a critical pillar of smart cities’ strategies but remain insufficiently and poorly understood. This paper aims to advance a conceptualization of citizen participation and investigates its effect on open data use at the municipal level.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on 14 semi-structured interviews with citizens involved in open data projects within the city of Montréal (Canada), the paper develops a research model linking the multidimensional construct of citizen participation with initial use of open data in municipalities.

Findings

The study shows that citizen participation is a key contributor to the use of open data through four distinct categories of participation, namely, hands-on activities, greater responsibility, better communication and improved relations between citizens and the open data portal development team. While electronic government research often views open data implementation as a top-down project, the current study demonstrates that citizens are central to the success of open data initiatives and shows how their role can be effectively leveraged across various dimensions of participation.

Originality/value

This paper proposes a conceptualization of citizen participation on open data use at the municipal level. Citizen participation is a found to be a key contributor to the use of open data through four distinct categories of participation, namely, hands-on activities, greater responsibility, better communication and improved relations between citizens and the open data portal development team. This paper demonstrates the critical role of citizen participation in open government.
High suckling rates and acoustic crypsis of humpback whale neonates maximise potential for mother–calf energy transfer
Authors: Videsen Simone K. A. , Bejder Lars , Johnson Mark , Madsen Peter T.
Published: April 2017

The migration of humpback whales to and from their breeding grounds results in a short, critical time period during which neonatal calves must acquire sufficient energy via suckling from their fasting mothers to survive the long return journey.

Understanding neonate suckling behaviour is critical for understanding the energetics and evolution of humpback whale migratory behaviour and for informing conservation efforts, but despite its importance, very little is known about the details, rate and behavioural context of this critical energy transfer.

To address this pertinent data gap on calf suckling behaviour, we deployed multi‐sensor Dtags on eight humpback whale calves and two mothers allowing us to analyse detailed suckling and acoustic behaviour for a total of 68·8 h.

Suckling dives were performed 20·7 ± 7% of the total tagging time with the mothers either resting at the surface or at depth with the calves hanging motionless with roll and pitch angles close to zero.

Vocalisations between mother and calf, which included very weak tonal and grunting sounds, were produced more frequently during active dives than suckling dives, suggesting that mechanical stimuli rather than acoustic cues are used to initiate nursing.

Use of mechanical cues for initiating suckling and low level vocalisations with an active space of <100 m indicate a strong selection pressure for acoustic crypsis.

Such inconspicuous behaviour likely reduces the risk of exposure to eavesdropping predators and male humpback whale escorts that may disrupt the high proportion of time spent nursing and resting, and hence ultimately compromise calf fitness.

The small active space of the weak calls between mother and calf is very sensitive to increases in ambient noise from human encroachment thereby increasing the risk of mother–calf separation.

A lay summary is available for this article.
Who Secures Job Opportunities in the Chinese Government? Evidence Based on the First Jobs of Graduates from a Chinese College
Authors: Gao Jie , Kong Dongmin , Kong Gaowen
Published: April 2017

Using a unique data set obtained from a Chinese college, the present paper investigates the determinants of obtaining a job in the Chinese Government. Despite the significant amount of attention paid to this issue by the media, academic study on this subject has been limited. We find that the parents' social capital, membership to the Communist Party, gender and personal ability significantly affect the possibility of a graduate obtaining a job in the public sector. Moreover, although acquiring a job in the government is difficult, no significant wage premium exists for graduates working in this sector. Finally, these results still hold after conducting the Heckman tests to validate the self‐selection bias. This study identifies the determinants of young Chinese people's aspirations to be civil servants, which raises significant policy implications for the government.
The Young's Modulus, Fracture Stress, and Fracture Strain of Gellan Hydrogels Filled with Whey Protein Microparticles
Authors: Lam Cherry Wing Yu , Ikeda Shinya
Published: April 2017

Texture modifying abilities of whey protein microparticles are expected to be dependent on pH during heat‐induced aggregation of whey protein in the microparticulation process. Therefore, whey protein microparticles were prepared at either pH 5.5 or 6.8 and their effects on small and large deformation properties of gellan gels containing whey protein microparticles as fillers were investigated. The majority of whey protein microparticles had diameters around 2 μm. Atomic force microscopy images showed that whey protein microparticles prepared at pH 6.8 partially collapsed and flatted by air‐drying, while those prepared at pH 5.5 did not. The Young's modulus of filled gels adjusted to pH 5.5 decreased by the addition of whey protein microparticles, while those of filled gels adjusted to pH 6.8 increased with increasing volume fraction of filler particles. These results suggest that filler particles were weakly bonded to gel matrices at pH 5.5 but strongly at pH 6.8. Whey protein microparticles prepared at pH 5.5 showed more enhanced increases in the Young's modulus than those prepared at pH 6.8 at volume fractions between 0.2 and 0.4, indicating that microparticles prepared at pH 5.5 were mechanically stronger. The fracture stress of filled gels showed trends somewhat similar to those of the Young's modulus, while their fracture strains decreased by the addition of whey protein microparticles in all examined conditions, indicating that the primary effect of these filler particles was to enhance the brittleness of filled gels.
Deformation of the Most Recent Co‐seismic Surface Ruptures Along the Garzê–Yushu Fault Zone (Dangjiang Segment) and Tectonic Implications For the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: WU Jiwen , HUANG Xuemeng , XIE Furen
Published: April 2017

The Garzê–Yushu strike‐slip fault in central Tibet is the locus of strong earthquakes (M > 7). The deformation and geometry of the co‐seismic surface ruptures are reflected in the surface morphology of the fault and depend on the structure of the upper crust as well as the pre‐existing tectonics. Therefore, the most recent co‐seismic surface ruptures along the Garzê–Yushu fault zone (Dangjiang segment) reveal the surface deformation of the central Tibetan Plateau. Remote sensing images and field investigations suggest a 85 km long surface rupture zone (striking NW‐NWW), less than 50 m wide, defined by discontinuous fault scarps, right‐stepping en echelon tensional cracks and left‐stepping mole tracks that point to a left‐lateral strike‐slip fault. The gullies that cross fault scarps record systematic left‐lateral offsets of 1.8 m to 5.0 m owing to the most recent earthquake, with moment magnitude of about M 7.5, in the Dangjiang segment. Geological and geomorphological features suggest that the spatial distribution of the 1738 co‐seismic surface rupture zone was controlled by the pre‐existing active Garzê–Yushu fault zone (Dangjiang segment). We confirm that the Garzê–Yushu fault zone, a boundary between the Bayan Har Block to the north and the Qiangtang Block to the south, accommodates the eastward extrusion of the Tibetan Plateau and generates strong earthquakes that release the strain energy owing to the relative motion between the Bayan Har and Qiangtang Blocks.
Timing, Displacement and Growth Pattern of the Altyn Tagh Fault: A Review
Authors: DAI Shuang , DAI Wei , ZHAO Zhenbin , LUO Junhua , QIANG Lei , MA Xin , ZHANG Xianwen , XU Jianjun
Published: April 2017

The Altyn Tagh Fault (ATF) is the longest, lithospheric scale and strike‐slip fault in East Asia. In the last three decades, multidisciplinary studies focusing on the timing, displacement of strike‐slip and growth mechanics of the ATF have made great progresses. Most studies revealed that the ATF is a sinistral strike‐slip and thrust fault, which underwent multiple episodes of activation. The fault is oriented NEE with a length of 1600 km, but the direction, timing of activity and magnitude of its extension eastward are still unclear. The AFT was predominately active during the Mesozoic and Cenozoic, in relation to the Mesozoic collision of the Cimmerian continent (Qiangtang and Lhasa block) and Cenozoic collision of India with Asia. The AFT strike‐slipped with a left‐lateral displacement of ca. 400 km during the Cenozoic and the displacement were bigger in the western segment and stronger in the early stage of fault activation. The slip‐rates in the Quaternary were bigger in the middle segment than in the western and eastern segment. We roughly estimated the Mesozoic displacement as ca. 150–300 km. The latest paleomagnetic data showed that the clockwise vertical‐axis rotation did not take place in the huge basins (the Tarim and Qaidam) at both side of ATF during the Cenozoic, but the rotation happened in the small basins along the ATF. This rotation may play an important role on accommodating the tectonic deformation and displacement of the ATF. Even if we have achieved consensus for many issues related to the ATF, some issues still need to be study deeply; such as: (a) the temporal and spatial coupling relationship between the collision of Cimmerian continent with Asia and the history of AFT in the Mesozoic and (b) the tectonic deformation history which records by the sediments of the basins within and at both side of AFT and was constrained by a high‐resolution and accurate chronology such as magnetostratigraphy and paleomagnetic data.
A Principles‐Based Cost‐Recovery Framework for Government Program Resourcing Decisions
Authors: Smith Harley , Webster Stewart
Published: April 2017

This paper presents a principles‐based government program resourcing decision framework that is designed to produce efficiency and equity through objectively determined decisions. The framework examines the appropriate role for government intervention through the application of a market failure test. It then guides the decision maker to identify the most appropriate government initiative to put in place and to establish the most efficient cost‐recovery mechanism. The framework has been endorsed by the NSW Department of Industry for program evaluation purposes and within the NSW Biosecurity Strategy. This framework would be suitable for application to all government programs/initiatives across all tiers of government.
The first epigraphic evidence of the existence of Thulā in antiquity
Authors: Sarah Rijziger
Published: April 2017

The discovery of three fragmentary Sabaic inscriptions in Thulā, Yemen, sheds new light on the so far unknown pre‐Islamic history of the town. The mention of a clan name ‘of Thulā’ (ḏ‐Ṯly) in one of these texts, dating from about the first century BC, makes it probable that all these inscriptions in fact originate from the site. Moreover, two previously published inscriptions from Thulā, the provenance of which had been doubted, can now clearly be attributed to the same corpus, which testifies to a pre‐Islamic occupation from the early Sabaic period onwards.
Umm el‐Jimal cathedral, Jordan: inscriptions and radiocarbon dates
Authors: Al‐Bashaireh Khaled
Published: April 2017

The dating of churches and structures of the Umm el‐Jimal archaeological site, north‐east Jordan, is mainly based on stylistic comparison and architectural elements. An inscription dated to 451 according to the Bostra calendar, was used to date Umm el‐Jimal cathedral to AD 556. The inscription was found on the cathedral's floor near the apse and it was therefore suggested that it belongs to its arch. This research aims at examining the accuracy of this date by radiocarbon dating organic inclusions collected from the mortar of the cathedral's apse. In addition, it characterises the mortar by X‐ray diffraction and microscopic analyses. The results show that the radiocarbon dates included the date of the inscription and indicated that the inscription belongs to the cathedral and dates it correctly. The mortar samples appeared lime‐based and ashy and had a high charcoal content. The results indicate that building the cathedral was part of a general trend of increasing building activities of churches in the region between AD 550 and 650.
Pharmacokinetics after a single dose of naloxone administered as a nasal spray in healthy volunteers
Authors: Vanky E. , Hellmundt L. , Bondesson U. , Eksborg S. , Lundeberg S.
Published: April 2017

Background

There is increasing interest in the use of intranasal naloxone to reverse adverse opioid effects during management of procedural pain in children and in adults after overdose. There are limited data on the pharmacokinetics of intranasal naloxone so in this study we aimed to detail the pharmacokinetic profile of the commercially marketed injectable solution of naloxone 0.4 mg/ml when administered as an intranasal spray.

Methods

Twenty healthy volunteers received naloxone as an intranasal spray at a dose of 10 μg/kg. Venous blood sampling was carried out for 90 min after administration to determine the time profile of the plasma concentrations of using tandem mass spectrometry. Pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated using a one‐compartment model.

Results

Median time to maximum naloxone concentration (Tmax) was 14.5 (95% CI: 9.0–16.5) min, mean maximum naloxone concentration (Cmax) was 1.09 ± 0.56 ng/ml and mean AUC0–90 min was 37.1 ± 15.0 ng*min/ml. Elimination half‐life estimated from the median concentration data was 28.2 min.

Conclusion

Our results show a faster uptake of intranasal naloxone to maximum concentration compared with previous studies although with a marked variation in maximum concentration. The findings are consistent with our clinical experience of the time profile for reversing the effects of sufentanil sedation in children.
Has the autonomy pendulum swung too far?
Authors: Walker Paul
Published: April 2017

Background

This paper aims to contribute to the discussion about patient‐centred care in surgery. It is contended here that the paradigm shift towards patient‐centred decision‐making in health care does not mean that patient values alone (or those of their proxies) should, uncritically, be the lead decision makers in determining surgical care.

Methods

In support of that contention, three clarifications to our conception of autonomy will be offered.

Results

First, autonomy may not be best positioned as the lead principle guiding healthcare decision‐making. Second, arguably, our traditional understanding of autonomy, as it might be applied to health care, is incomplete. Third, where autonomy is vested is contentious, and proxy decision makers can further complicate the decision‐making process.

Conclusion

It will be argued that an approach of inclusive, non‐coercive and reflective dialogue seeking a consensual decision amongst all those affected is more appropriate for moral decision‐making in surgery. This dialogue is set in the actual reality of the patient's illness. During the discourse, each participant has equal rights to contribute and to be heard, equal duties not to coerce and equal co‐responsibilities to share the perspectives of others in the discourse, with an aim to reach consensus.
A comparison between patients with epiphora and cataract of the activity limitations they experience in daily life due to their visual disability
Authors: Bohman Elin , Wyon Maria , Lundström Mats , Dafgård Kopp Eva
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The objective of this study was to compare patients with epiphora and cataract in terms of the activity limitations they experience in daily life due to their visual disability and to validate the use of the Catquest‐9SF questionnaire for epiphora patients.

Methods

Seventy‐two consecutively encountered adult patients with confirmed lacrimal obstruction and listed for dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) or lacrimal intubation at the St. Erik Eye Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden, completed the Catquest‐9SF questionnaire, which measures activity limitations in daily life due to visual disability. The psychometric qualities of the Catquest‐9SF results obtained from this group of patients were evaluated by Rasch analysis. Rasch analysis was further employed to convert the ordinal raw data to a Rasch score for comparison with the preoperative scores of patients registered in the Swedish National Cataract Register (NCR) during March 2013.

Results

The Catquest‐9SF exhibited good psychometric qualities when investigating epiphora patients, with the exception of a misfit for Item 4, the item regarding facial recognition. On the Rasch scale (−5.43 = no activity limitations to +5.01 = severe activity limitations), the mean score for epiphora patients was −0.82 while for patients listed for 1st eye and 2nd eye cataract surgery it was −0.17 and −0.76, respectively. An equivalence test confirmed that the reported visual disability of epiphora patients was not significantly different from visual disability reported by patients waiting for 2nd eye cataract surgery.

Conclusion

The Catquest‐9SF is a valid measure of visual disability in patients with epiphora. Epiphora patients experience visual disability to the same degree as patients awaiting 2nd eye cataract surgery.
Prevalence and risk factors for diabetic retinopathy in 17 152 patients from the island of Funen, Denmark
Authors: Larsen Morten B. , Henriksen Jan Erik , Grauslund Jakob , Peto Tunde
Published: April 2017

Purpose

This study aims to estimate the prevalence and risk factors of diabetic retinopathy (DR) in patients enrolled in a large Danish quality‐assuring database for diabetes: the Funen Diabetes Database (FDDB).

Methods

All patients with type 1 (T1DM) and type 2 DM (T2DM) diabetes mellitus (DM) were included in a cross‐sectional study. The level of DR per patient was determined based on the eye with highest level of DR. All ocular and non‐ocular data were extracted at the latest examination that corresponded to the most recent DR‐grading data.

Results

Data from 17 152 patients were analysed; 83.1% had T2DM. Prevalence of DR was 23.8% (T1DM: 54.3%, T2DM: 21.2%). T1/T2DM patients were statistically significantly different regarding age, duration of diabetes, BMI, systolic blood pressure (BP), cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglyceride, s‐creatinine and u‐albumin (p < 0.001 for all). Increasing level of DR showed statistically significant association with age, duration of diabetes, systolic BP, HbA1c, s‐creatinine and u‐albumine with increasing level of DR (all are p < 0.001) both T1DM/T2DM patients.

Conclusion

The patients in FDDB had good systemic control with median values of BP, serum lipids, cholesterol and HbA1c all close to or below national guidelines at the time of data extraction, but still a high level of DR was found in this cohort. DR was more common in patients with T1DM than T2DM, but as T2DM patients are more numerous, their level of DR despite acceptable control is still concerning. Most important associated factors for higher levels of DR were age, duration of diabetes, HbA1c, s‐creatinine and u‐albumine.
In vitro effects of ambroxol on Cryptococcus adherence, planktonic cells, and biofilms
Authors: Kong Qingtao , Du Xue , Huang Suyang , Yang Rui , Zhang Chengzhen , Shen Yongnian , Liu Weida , Sang Hong
Published: April 2017

The antifungal effects of ambroxol (Amb; the metabolite VIII of bromhexine) against Cryptococcus planktonic cells and mature biofilms were investigated in this study. Amb showed antifungal activity against planktonic cells and mature biofilms. Disk diffusion test similarly showed antifungal profile for planktonic cells. Furthermore, Amb was found to be synergetic with fluconazole against planktonic cells and reduced the adherence of cells to polystyrene. Our results suggest that Amb can inhibit cryptococcal cells and biofilms, indicating its potential role in the prevention and treatment of cryptococcosis.
Comparative Analysis of Chinese and Indian Soft Power Strategy
Authors: Shah Syed Hasanat , Hasnat Hafsa , Rosefielde Steven
Published: April 2017

In the last two decades, China and India emerged as potential contenders for great power status. During this period, both invested in soft power and capitalized on perceptions of their growing power to advance their interests without locking horns with entrenched stakeholders. This study compares the elements of Chinese and Indian soft power strategies and their impact on the international arena. The findings suggest that China's soft power strategy is more coherent than India's. China is doing well in cultural activities, people to people contacts, attracting foreign students from diverse backgrounds, and portraying itself as a progressive resilient economy while India has an upper hand projecting an image of country with a vibrant civil society and democratic order. Despite differences in spending and development, China's and India's strategies have been equally effective in favorably influencing foreign public perceptions.
Intraoperative use of a transarticular circular fixator construct to facilitate reduction and stabilisation of a proximal tibial physeal fracture in a dog
Authors: Johnson MD , Lewis DD , Winter MD
Published: April 2017

Case report

A 4‐month‐old female intact American Pit Bull Terrier was presented for right pelvic limb lameness 1 day after the dog had been hit by an all‐terrain vehicle. Orthogonal radiographs of the right stifle revealed a Salter‐Harris type IV fracture through the proximal tibial physis extending caudodistally through the proximal tibial metaphysis. The distal tibia was markedly displaced cranially, laterally and proximally, resulting in complete overriding of the fracture segments. An open approach was made in order to facilitate direct reduction, but the fracture could not be sufficiently distracted and the epiphyseal segment remained fixed caudal to the remainder of the tibia. Concerns regarding possible iatrogenic trauma to the epiphysis prompted the use of a transarticular circular fixator construct to distract the fracture segments to facilitate reduction. Distraction that facilitated reduction was performed using three TrueLok Rapid Quick Adjust Struts that were positioned between the two ring components. The struts also allowed for multiplanar adjustment of alignment, which allowed the fracture to be maintained in anatomic reduction as divergent interfragmentary Kirschner wires were placed. Radiographic union was confirmed 19 days after surgery.

Conclusion/Clinical significance

Transient intraoperative application of a circular construct incorporating the TrueLok components facilitated accurate fracture reduction without inflicting further iatrogenic trauma to the epiphysis, after traditional direct reduction techniques proved ineffective, and afforded a successful clinical outcome in the dog reported here.
Voxel‐based morphometry meta‐analysis of gray and white matter finds significant areas of differences in bipolar patients from healthy controls
Authors: Ganzola Rossana , Duchesne Simon
Published: April 2017

Objective

We present a retrospective meta‐analysis of voxel‐based morphometry (VBM) of gray (GM) and white matter (WM) differences between patients with bipolar disorder (BD) and behaviorally healthy controls.

Methods

We used the activation likelihood estimation and Sleuth software for our meta‐analysis, considering P‐value maps at the cluster level inference of .05 with uncorrected P<.001. Results were visualized with the software MANGO.

Results

We included twenty‐five articles in the analysis, and separated the comparisons where BD patients had lower GM or WM concentrations than controls (573 subjects, 21 experiments, and 117 locations/180 subjects, five experiments, and 15 locations, respectively) and the comparisons where BD patients had greater GM concentrations than controls (217 subjects, nine experiments, and 49 locations). Higher WM concentrations in BD patients were not detected. We observed for BD reduced GM concentrations in the left medial frontal gyrus and right inferior/precentral gyri encompassing the insular cortex, and greater GM concentrations in the left putamen. Further, lower WM concentrations were detected in the left inferior longitudinal fasciculus, left superior corona radiata, and left posterior cingulum.

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis confirms deterioration of frontal and insular regions as already found in previous meta‐analysis. GM reductions in these regions could be related to emotional processing and decision making, which are typically impaired in BD. Moreover, we found abnormalities in precentral frontal areas and putamen that have been linked to more basic functions, which could point to sensory and specific cognitive deficits. Finally, WM reductions involved circuitry that may contribute to emotional dysregulation in BD.
Identification of coagulation gene 3′UTR variants that are potentially regulated by microRNAs
Authors: Vossen Carla Y. , van Hylckama Vlieg Astrid , Teruel‐Montoya Raúl , Salloum‐Asfar Salam , de Haan Hugoline , Corral Javier , Reitsma Pieter , Koeleman Bobby P. C. , Martínez Constantino
Published: April 2017

MicroRNAs have been recognized as critical regulators of gene expression and might affect the risk of venous thrombosis. We aimed to identify 3′ untranslated region (UTR) variants in coagulation genes that influence coagulation factor levels and venous thrombosis risk. The 3′UTR of coagulation genes were sequenced in subjects with extremely high or low plasma levels of these factors in two case‐control studies. In total, 28 variants were identified. Five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were predominantly present in one extreme level group (F2 rs1799963, F8 rs1050705 and F11 rs4253429, rs4253430 and rs1062547). Additional to F2 rs1799963, F8 rs1050705 (in men) and F11 rs4253430 were associated with an increased risk of venous thrombosis albeit confidence intervals were wide. The three F11 SNPs were in high linkage disequilibrium with functional variants rs2289252 and rs2036914. Rs1062547 and rs4253430 were associated with a significant increase of plasma FXI activity in heterozygotes and homozygotes in wild‐type controls. In silico prediction revealed that these SNPs might disturb the binding sites of miR‐544 and miR‐513a‐3p. Only miR‐544 provoked a significant decrease of the luciferase activity that was not observed with a rs4253430 mutated vector. In conclusion, these results reinforce that microRNAs are candidates to play a role in haemostasis and complex disorders, such as thrombosis.
Circulating cell‐free BRAFV600E as a biomarker in children with Langerhans cell histiocytosis
Authors: Héritier Sébastien , Hélias‐Rodzewicz Zofia , Lapillonne Hélène , Terrones Nathalie , Garrigou Sonia , Normand Corinne , Barkaoui Mohamed‐Aziz , Miron Jean , Plat Geneviève , Aladjidi Nathalie , Pagnier Anne , Deville Anne , Gillibert‐Yvert Marion , Moshous Despina , Lefèvre‐Utile Alain , Lutun Anne , Paillard Catherine , Thomas Caroline , Jeziorski Eric , Nizard Philippe , Taly Valérie , Emile Jean‐François , Donadieu Jean
Published: April 2017

The BRAFV600E mutation is reported in half of patients with Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH). This study investigated the detection of the BRAFV600E allele in circulating cell‐free (ccf) DNA in a paediatric LCH cohort. Children with BRAFV600E‐mutated LCH were investigated to detect ccf BRAFV600E at diagnosis (n = 48) and during follow‐up (n = 17) using a picolitre‐droplet digital PCR assay. At diagnosis, ccf BRAFV600E was positive in 15/15 (100%) patients with risk‐organ positive multisystem (RO+ MS) LCH, 5/12 (42%) of patients with RO− MS LCH and 3/21 (14%) patients with single‐system (SS) LCH (P < 0·001, Fisher's exact test). The positive BRAFV600E load was higher for RO+ patients (mean, 2·90%; range, 0·04–11·4%) than for RO− patients (mean, 0·16%; range, 0·01–0·39) (P = 0·003, Mann–Whitney U test). After first‐line vinblastine‐steroid induction therapy, 7/7 (100%) of the non‐responders remained positive for ccf BRAFV600E compared to 2/4 (50%) of the partial‐responders and 0/4 of the complete responders (P = 0·002, Fisher's exact test). Six children treated with vemurafenib showed a clinical response that was associated with a decrease in the ccf BRAFV600E load at day 15. Thus, ccf BRAFV600E is a promising biomarker for monitoring the response to therapy for children with RO+ MS LCH or RO− LCH resistant to first‐line chemotherapy.
From genetic single candidate gene studies to complex genomics of GvHD
Authors: Bogunia‐Kubik Katarzyna , Łacina Piotr
Published: April 2017

Graft‐versus‐host disease (GvHD) is a serious complication affecting the recipients of allogeneic haematopoietic stem cells. In this present review we attempt to summarize the current knowledge on the effect of the donor and recipient genotypes on GvHD, starting from human leucocyte antigen (HLA) matching for an optimal donor selection, typing of non‐classical HLA and minor histocompatibility antigens through the polymorphic variations in genes coding for non‐HLA proteins contributing to the development of GvHD and response to treatment. The results of recent Candidate Gene Studies (CGS) and Genome‐Wide Association Studies (GWAS) are presented and discussed.
Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia genomics and the precision medicine era
Authors: Ghamlouch Hussein , Nguyen‐Khac Florence , Bernard Olivier A.
Published: April 2017

Massive genomic analyses have underscored the diversity of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) between patients. Genetic heterogeneity of tumour clones within a patient may fuel tumour evolution. Several recurrently deregulated intra‐cellular pathways are candidates for targeted therapies that are very promising and are dramatically changing clinical patients’ perspectives. In this review we present an overview of the genetic and epigenetic features of CLL and their clinical and biological implications.