bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does prescribing of immediate release oxycodone by emergency medicine physicians result in persistence of Schedule 8 opioids following discharge?
Authors: Veal Felicity , Thompson Angus , Halliday Samuel , Boyles Peter , Orlikowski Chris , Huckerby Emma , Bereznicki Luke
Published: December 2019

Objectives

To identify the prevalence of oxycodone immediate release (IR) prescribed during an ED admission and the persistence of Schedule 8 (S8) opioids following an ED admission.

Methods

A retrospective cross‐sectional audit was undertaken reviewing all admission at the ED of the Royal Hobart Hospital, Tasmania, between 1 August and 30 September 2016. The admissions lists for ED were cross matched with the narcotic registers for oxycodone IR (the most commonly supplied S8 in ED) to identify how many patients received IR oxycodone during their ED admissions. Determination of the persistence of opioid use in opioid naïve patients was then undertaken using the Tasmanian real time reporting database of all S8 opioid dispensed in Tasmania (DAPIS).

Results

There were 8432 ED admissions for 7065 patients aged over 13 years. IR oxycodone was prescribed during 1049 of these admissions (12.4%). Of the patients who were not taking regularly prescribed S8 opioids prior to their ED admission (n = 853), 48 patients (5.6%) were taking S8 opioids at both 2 and 6 months following their ED admission. Thirty patients (2.8%) were approved for authorities for long‐term opioids for non‐cancer pain.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that prescribing of IR oxycodone within ED is lower than previous studies. Additionally, the progression to regular chronic opioid use following an ED admission where IR oxycodone was given was relatively low with 3.0% of opioid naïve patients being approved for indications related to chronic non‐cancer pain in the following 6 months.
Improving quality of life for Muslim patients requiring a stoma: A critical review of theological and psychosocial issues
Authors: Habib Abul , Connor Martin J. , Boxall Nicholas E. , Lamb Benjamin W. , Miah Saiful
Published: December 2019

Aim

The impact of a stoma on the health related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients is irrespective of faith. Muslim patients report lower quality of life and spiritual well‐being following stoma surgery as compared to others. This critical review aims to improve awareness of Islamic practices and HRQoL outcomes in this cohort of patients amongst healthcare professionals.

Method

An extensive non‐systematic search of EMBASE, MEDLINE and Google Scholar was performed for original research articles pertaining to health related quality of life (HRQoL), stoma care and impact on religious practice in Muslim patients. A narrative synthesis of extracted data was performed and presented using basic thematic analysis.

Results

The findings from the 10 original articles, including 954 participants, were identified. Perceptions of cleanliness emerged as a concern to Muslim patients with stomas as it is core to the performance of prayer. Muslim patients with stomas are known to avoid or reduce participation in prayers due to perceived inferior hygiene and fear of leakage. The consensus opinion from Islamic scholars is that they can pray normally, attend mosque and perform the Hajj pilgrimage. Stoma patients may fast in the holy month of Ramadan provided it is medically safe. Evidence suggests religion‐specific counselling can reduce the detrimental effect on HRQoL of Muslim patients following stoma‐forming surgery and increases engagement in social aspects of life.

Conclusions

It is important for patients, family members and healthcare professionals to understand the practical and religious implications of stomas on these patients for appropriate guidance and counselling.
Fentanyl is used in Mexico's northern border: current challenges for drug health policies
Authors: Fleiz Clara , Arredondo Jaime , Chavez Alfonso , Pacheco Lilia , Segovia Luis A. , Villatoro Jorge A. , Cruz Silvia L. , Medina‐Mora María E. , de la Fuente Juan R.
Published: December 2019

Background and Aims

Results from a recent study among 750 heroin users in three Mexico's northern border cities revealed an increase in white powder availability (also known as China white) and preference for this product among heroin users, as well as a general perception of increased overdose cases among this population. Here, we questioned whether those findings reflect an increased presence of heroin laced with fentanyl, which is associated with greater risks of overdose but that, until now, has not been described in Mexico.

Design

We tested fentanyl using highly sensitive test strips in syringe plungers, metal cookers and drug wrappings associated with heroin use.

Setting

Three injection sites in Tijuana, Baja California, México.

Participants

Eighty‐nine heroin users who interchanged paraphernalia for new syringes.

Measurements

We tested 59 residues of ‘pure’ white powder. The rest were white powder with black tar (n = 5) or white powder with crystal meth (n = 9), black tar with crystal meth (n = 1), black tar only (n = 13) and crystal meth only (n = 2).

Findings

Users believed that they consumed either white powder heroin, white powder heroin with crystal meth, white powder with black tar heroin or black tar heroin only. Analyses revealed that 93% (n = 55) of the ‘pure’ white powder samples had fentanyl. All (n = 9) the white powder samples mixed with crystal meth and 40% (n = 2) of the white powder with black tar were also laced with fentanyl.

Conclusions

In a sample of 89 heroin users in Mexico, most white powder heroin users were unknowingly exposed to fentanyl, with fentanyl detected in 93% of white powder samples.
Uncovering the trail of positive affect in the job attitudes literature: A systematic review
Authors: Tee Eugene Y. J.
Published: December 2019

A review of the organisational psychology literature suggests that researchers have examined at least four job attitude constructs: job satisfaction, work/task satisfaction, job involvement, and organisational commitment. Less, however, is known about why the four different job attitudes vary in magnitude as predictors of vital organisational outcomes. In this systematic review, I propose that positive affect is central in explaining the differential effects of these job attitudes on organisational outcomes. The review then explicates patterns of results underlying prior studies on these job attitudes and presents an overarching proposition: Accurate conceptualisation and measurement of the affective component underlying each job attitude will help illustrate how, and to what extent, each job attitude leads to desirable organisational outcomes. Finally, four key suggestions for further job attitudes research are presented: (a) enhancing conceptualisation and measurement of positive affect in job attitudes, (b) developing an overarching theory of positive affect, (c) focusing on discrete positive emotions, and (d) looking beyond existing current job attitude constructs. This work complements the current affective epoch of job attitudes research, uncovering the trail of positive affect as it has informed the job attitudes literature historically and suggesting its theoretical and practical developments for the future.
Increased DNA methylation in the spermatogenesis‐associated (SPATA) genes correlates with infertility
Authors: Sujit Kumar Mohanty , Singh Vertika , Trivedi Sameer , Singh Kiran , Gupta Gopal , Rajender Singh
Published: December 2019

Background

Spermatogenesis‐associated (SPATA) family of genes plays important roles in spermatogenesis, sperm maturation or fertilization. The knockout studies in mice have demonstrated that SPATA genes are crucial for fertility. Gene expression and genetic polymorphism studies have further suggested their correlation with infertility; however, methylation analysis of SPATA genes in human male infertility has not yet been undertaken.

Objectives

To analyze the methylation status of SPATA4, SPATA5 and SPATA6 genes in oligozoospermic male infertility.

Materials and methods

In the present study, we have analyzed DNA methylation pattern in the promoter regions of SPATA4, SPATA5 and SPATA6 genes in oligozoospermic patients and compared it with normozoospermic fertile controls. Semen samples were obtained from 30 oligozoospermic infertile and 19 normozoospermic fertile controls, and DNA methylation levels of the target gene promoters were analyzed by amplicon based deep sequencing methylation analysis using MiSeq.

Results

SPATA4 (P < 0.0008), SPATA5 (P = 0.009) and SPATA6 (Promoter, P < 0.0005; Exon 1, P = 0.0128) genes were significantly hypermethylated in oligozoospermic patients in comparison to controls. This is the first study reporting a higher methylation in the promoters of SPATA4, SPATA5 and SPATA6 in oligozoospermic infertile individuals in comparison to the normozoospermic fertile controls.

Discussion

Altered methylation of SPATA genes would affect pathways involved in sperm production or affect various processes linked to sperm fertility.

Conclusion

In conclusion, hypermethylation in the SPATA4, SPATA5 and SPATA6 genes correlates with oligozoospermic infertility.
Cleaning potential of different air abrasive powders and their impact on implant surface roughness
Authors: Matsubara Victor H. , Leong Bron W. , Leong Marcus J. L. , Lawrence Zacharij , Becker Thomas , Quaranta Alessandro
Published: December 2019

Background

Implant surface roughness after air abrasive therapy has not been measured precisely in previous research. Debridement with air abrasion facilitates the mechanical removal of bacterial biofilms but may damage implant surfaces on a microscopic level.

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the cleaning potential of various air abrasive powders and their effect on titanium implant surfaces.

Materials and Methods

Twenty implants coated with red ink were inserted into three‐dimensional printed circumferential bone defect models. Treatment was completed with three types of air abrasive powders: sodium bicarbonate (SB), glycine, and erythritol for 60 seconds. Water alone was used as control. The percentage of remaining ink was assessed using digital photography and graphic software. Implant surface topography/roughness was quantified using optical profilometry and examined via scanning electron microscopy. The microscopic analysis was performed at two implant areas: collar (Laser‐Lok surface) and threads.

Results

The cleaned surfaces (%, mean ± SD) after treatment with SB, glycine, and erythritol accounted for 49.3 ± 3.6%, 33.1 ± 1.2%, and 25.1 ± 0.7%, respectively. Statistically significant differences were found between all groups (P < .001). SB was the only powder that significantly increased the implant roughness (Sa) on both the implant collar (1.53‐2.10 μm) and threads (3.53‐4.20 μm). Regardless of the abrasive powder used, the collar, emerging implant surfaces from the defect base, and surfaces beneath implants threads exhibited more post‐treatment residual ink.

Conclusion

Large‐sized powder showed the greatest cleaning capacity, but caused more alterations to the implant surface. Glycine and erythritol displayed no significant changes in surface roughness, however, demonstrated a limited ink removal capacity.
Systematic expression analysis of WEE family kinases reveals the importance of PKMYT1 in breast carcinogenesis
Authors: Liu Yu , Qi Jian , Dou Zhen , Hu Jiliang , Lu Li , Dai Haiming , Wang Hongzhi , Yang Wulin
Published: December 2019

Objectives

Many cancer cells depend on G2 checkpoint mechanism regulated by WEE family kinases to maintain genomic integrity. The PKMYT1 gene, as a member of WEE family kinases, participates in G2 checkpoint surveillance and probably links with tumorigenesis, but its role in breast cancer remains largely unclear.

Materials and Methods

In this study, we used a set of bioinformatic tools to jointly analyse the expression of WEE family kinases and investigate the prognostic value of PKMYT1 in breast cancer.

Results

The results indicated that PKMYT1 is the only frequently overexpressed member of WEE family kinases in breast cancer. KM plotter data suggests that abnormally high expression of PKMYT1 predicts poor prognosis, especially for some subtypes, such as luminal A/B and triple‐negative (TNBC) types. Moreover, the up‐regulation of PKMYT1 was associated with HER2‐positive (HER2+), basal‐like (Basal‐like), TNBC statuses and increased classifications of Scarff, Bloom and Richardson (SBR). Co‐expression analysis showed PKMYT1 has a strong positive correlation with Polo‐like kinase 1 (PLK1), implying they may cooperate in regulating cancer cell proliferation by synchronizing rapid cell cycle with high quality of genome maintenance.

Conclusions

Collectively, this study demonstrates that overexpression of PKMYT1 is always found in breast cancer and predicts unfavourable prognosis, implicating it as an appealing therapeutic target for breast carcinoma.
Dermatopathologist assessment of “pathologist‐to‐dermatologist” communication for dermatopathology services
Authors: Sheikh Umar A. , Sufficool Kari E. , Buchanan Paula , Armbrecht Eric S. , Burkemper Nicole M. , Vidal Claudia I.
Published: December 2019

Background

While patients are the ultimate beneficiaries of pathology services, pathologist to clinician communication is an essential component of excellent patient care.

Objective

To survey dermatologists on how well pathologists communicate with them and to assess which aspects of pathologists' communication skills are deemed most significant to dermatologists, stratified by practice type.

Methods

A survey‐based instrument was developed and sent to dermatologists through various email listservs. Of the approximately 400 potential Association of Professors of Dermatology respondents, 64 returned the survey questionnaire (response rate 16%). Of the 79 state and regional dermatologic societies, seven agreed to distribute the survey on their listservs (response rate 9%).

Results

Surveyed dermatologists believe that the pathologists with whom they work are meeting expectations in the areas of diagnostic accuracy, communicating pertinent information in a timely fashion, integrating written pathology reports into the electronic medical record, and making a clinically meaningful histopathologic interpretation. Discussion of cost of ancillary testing is an area of improvement. University affiliated dermatologists are more likely to use electronic medical records as their predominant mode of communication compared to community dermatologists with and without academic affiliations. Community dermatologists are more likely to use faxed written pathology reports as their predominant mode of communication.

Conclusion

Physician‐to‐physician communication is a key component of effective patient care. When it comes to dermatopathology services, dermatologists appear overall satisfied with the indicators examined, however, potential opportunities for improvement exist.
Epidemiology and outcome of idiopathic generalized epilepsy in adults
Authors: Gesche J. , Christensen J. , Hjalgrim H. , Rubboli G. , Beier C. P.
Published: December 2019

Background and purpose

Drug‐resistant idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE) remains challenging despite a favourable overall prognosis of IGE, and little is known about basic epidemiology and long‐term outcome of drug‐resistant IGE. The aim of the study was to describe the incidence, prevalence and outcome of IGE in an unbiased, population‐based cohort.

Methods

In 2014–2018, all patients (≥17 years) with IGE inhabiting the island of Funen (496 000 inhabitants) were recruited. The socioeconomic and clinical information available for 406 individuals was assessed. Median follow‐up was 15 years.

Results

The average IGE incidence (2008–2017) was 2.9/100 000 inhabitants/year. The point prevalence of identifiable IGE patients was 1.0/1000 adults (juvenile myoclonic epilepsy 0.4/1000; absence epilepsy 0.3/1000, epilepsy with generalized tonic–clonic seizures alone 0.3/1000); 92.1% of the patients were diagnosed before 25 years of age. When correcting for unequal age distribution in the cohort, 1102 people on the island of Funen fulfilled the diagnostic criteria for IGE at the age of 25 (estimated prevalence 2.7/1000 adults). In the year before data closure, 121 patients reported seizures. Fifty patients met the definition of drug‐resistant IGE (12.1% of the cohort, 4.5% of the estimated 1102 IGE patients). The average seizure burden of all patients with drug‐resistant IGE was 2.2 generalized tonic–clonic seizures per year; only 14 patients suffered more than two generalized tonic–clonic seizures per year. Drug‐resistant IGE was associated with an increased risk of requiring treatment for affective disorders and a reduced probability of working full time.

Conclusion

Idiopathic generalized epilepsy was associated with a low risk of persistent drug‐resistant seizures requiring specialist medical attention. Drug resistance was associated with a negative socioeconomic outcome.
Under pressure: Short‐ and long‐term response to predation varies in two populations of a live‐bearing fish
Authors: Humphrey Eve A. , Crespi Erica , Travis Joseph
Published: December 2019

The non‐lethal effects of predation can significantly influence animal behavior and population composition. Research has often centered around prey response to predator exposure in the short term, but fewer studies have highlighted the effects of long‐term predator exposures. In addition, studies of responses to predation risk are not always calibrated against the ecological history of predation risk in specific populations. We address these gaps by examining the effects of both long‐ and short‐term predator exposure on the behavior of individuals from populations that have different ecological histories of predation risk. We exposed individuals from high‐predation and low‐predation populations of the live‐bearing freshwater poeciliid, Heterandria formosa, to predators to assess changes in male reproductive behavior toward females. We also assessed longer‐term reproductive responses by exposing male and female H. formosa to predators at a random time of day, every day, for 30 days. In the presence of a predator, in the short term, males changed the frequency of their behaviors and females varied in their concentration of cortisol, demonstrating immediate responses to the perceived risk. The magnitude of these changes was larger in the population without a long history of predator exposure. However, we found that males and females did not change their reproductive output when exposed to predators over longer periods of time, suggesting that individuals acclimatize to the level of predation risk they experience. These results also suggest that short‐term variation in behavior or stress hormone responses should not be used as proxies for long‐term responses or fitness effects. Future work should assess both short‐term behavior and long‐term responses while simultaneously considering the ecological history of populations.
High‐throughput competitive fluorescence polarization assay reveals functional redundancy in the S100 protein family
Authors: Simon Márton A. , Ecsédi Péter , Kovács Gábor M. , Póti Ádám L. , Reményi Attila , Kardos József , Gógl Gergő , Nyitray László
Published: December 2019

The calcium‐binding, vertebrate‐specific S100 protein family consists of 20 paralogs in humans (referred as the S100ome), with several clinically important members. To explore their protein–protein interactions (PPIs) quantitatively, we have chosen an unbiased, high‐throughput, competitive fluorescence polarization (FP) assay that revealed a partial functional redundancy when the complete S100ome (n = 20) was tested against numerous model partners (n = 13). Based on their specificity, the S100ome can be grouped into two distinct classes: promiscuous and orphan. In the first group, members bound to several ligands (> 4–5) with comparable high affinity, while in the second one, the paralogs bound only one partner weakly, or no ligand was identified. Our results demonstrate that FP assays are highly suitable for quantitative interaction profiling of selected protein families. Moreover, we provide evidence that PPI‐based phenotypic characterization can complement or even exceed the information obtained from the sequence‐based phylogenetic analysis of the S100ome, an evolutionary young protein family.
Cellular senescence and senescence‐associated T cells as a potential therapeutic target
Authors: Nakagami Hironori
Published: December 2019

More than 50 years ago, Hayflick et al. found that no long‐lived, proliferative cells remained in long‐term cell culture experiments; this phenomenon is called “cellular senescence.” This finding has allowed us to understand basic individual tissue aging and cancer inhibition from the view of cellular aging. Senescent cells survive and accumulate in the body, and secrete various inflammatory cytokines or chemokines, which is different from the cell fate in apoptosis. These phenomena describe the so‐called senescence‐associated secretory phenotype, and chronic inflammation and carcinogenesis are induced in the surrounding tissue through senescence‐associated secretory phenotype factors. For example, senescence‐associated T cells are an age‐dependent CD4(+) T‐cell subpopulation with a PD‐1(+) memory phenotype; these cells do not proliferate in response to T‐cell receptor stimulation, and produce abundant osteopontin, as well as inflammatory cytokines. Senescence‐associated T cells are also increased in adipose tissue under a high‐fat diet, which might be related to the progress of obesity or diabetes. These series of findings might allow us to connect senescent cells and tissue aging, leading to individual aging. Interestingly, the depletion of senescent cells in the body, called senolysis, successfully increases lifespan and attenuates age‐related diseases. This novel therapy is now moving forward to translational research from the bench toward clinical trials. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2020; 20: 97–100.
Most Bothersome Symptom in Persons With Migraine: Results From the Migraine in America Symptoms and Treatment (MAST) Study
Authors: Munjal Sagar , Singh Preeti , Reed Michael L. , Fanning Kristina , Schwedt Todd J. , Dodick David W. , Buse Dawn C. , Lipton Richard B.
Published: December 2019

Objectives

The objectives of this study were to determine the rates of nausea, phonophobia, and photophobia reported overall and as the most bothersome symptom (MBS) in individuals with migraine and to identify individual characteristics associated with each of the 3 candidate MBSs.

Background

The MBS has emerged as an important coprimary efficacy endpoint in clinical trials of acute treatments for migraine, as recommended by the Food and Drug Administration. The current understanding of how persons with migraine designate an associated symptom as the most bothersome has been assessed primarily in the context of randomized trials.

Methods

Respondents (n = 95,821) in the cross‐sectional, observational Migraine in America Symptoms and Treatment (MAST) study were adults (aged ≥18 years) recruited from a US nationwide online research panel. A validated diagnostic screener identified 15,133 individuals who met modified International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD)‐3 beta criteria for migraine and reported at least 1 monthly headache day (MHD) over the previous 3 months. The survey ascertained sociodemographic variables, headache‐related disability, MHDs, cutaneous allodynia, medication overuse, a migraine symptom severity score, pain interference, noncephalic pain, anxiety and depression symptoms, visual aura over the previous year, and acute treatment optimization. The current analysis is based on respondents who also completed a 6‐month follow‐up assessment that included questions about their most bothersome headache symptom.

Results

A total of 7518 respondents completed the 6‐month follow‐up, and 6045 met inclusion criteria and were included in the analysis. The mean age of respondents was 47 (SD 13.4) years, 76.0% (4596/6045) were women, and 84.8% (5103/6017) were white. Among all respondents, 64.9% reported all 3 migraine symptoms. The MBS was photophobia in 49.1% (2967/6045), nausea in 28.1% (1697/6045), and phonophobia in 22.8% (1381/6045). Respondents reporting photophobia as the MBS were more likely to be men, to be obese, and to report visual aura. Those reporting nausea as the MBS were more likely to be women, to have lower incomes, and to report lower levels of treatment optimization. Respondents reporting phonophobia as the MBS were more likely to have cutaneous allodynia and less likely to have visual aura.

Conclusion

Most people with migraine in the MAST observational study reported all 3 cardinal symptoms of nausea, photophobia, and phonophobia. As in clinical trials, the most common MBS was photophobia. Patient profiles differed among the groups defined by their MBS.
‘I am happy just doing the work …’ Commuter student engagement in the wider higher education experience
Authors: Thomas Liz
Published: December 2019

This paper reports on a large qualitative study with commuter students in England. Research on student success identifies the importance of engagement in academic and non‐academic aspects of the student experience; in this paper student engagement is segmented into academic, enhancement and social spheres. Commuter students, who often incorporate a range of equity characteristics, aim to achieve good degree and employment outcomes, and prioritise academic engagement. But commuting tempers their face‐to‐face academic engagement as they make trade‐offs between the costs of travelling and the value of the academic encounter. Engagement in enhancement and social activities is limited and is seen by many as an extraneous aspect of the higher education experience. This lack of engagement can be understood through the employment of notions of economic, cultural and social capital, and these insights inform the recommendations for higher education providers to improve the engagement and outcomes of non‐traditional students in higher education.
Current trends in African American business history of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries: Recent historiography and applications of the field
Authors: Sharp Kelly K.
Published: December 2019

Over the past two decades, African American business history has developed into a genre of interdisciplinary interest with historiographical value as well as contemporary implication. This essay analyzes recent historiographical advancements and trends in African American business history of the long twentieth century, specifically a dozen works published over the past ten years. Three innovative methodologies have risen to distinction in the important and expanding field of African American business history: the historical exploration of contemporary inequities, biographies of exceptional but not peerless individuals, and local histories as case studies for broader historical application. While lauding these advancements, this essay concludes by encouraging investment of these methods in expanding historical understanding of African American business history in the eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, particularly the economic and cultural contribution of black urbanites.
Macrophages protect mycoplasma‐infected chronic myeloid leukemia cells from natural killer cell killing
Authors: Choo Qing Wei Winnie , Koean Ricky Abdi Gunawan , Chang Shu‐Chun , Chng Wee Joo , Chan Ming Chun , Wang Wilson , Er Jun Zhi , Ding Jeak Ling
Published: December 2019

Macrophages (Mϕ) have been reported to downmodulate the cytotoxicity of natural killer (NK) cell against solid tumor cells. However, the collaborative role between NK cells and Mϕ remains underappreciated, especially in hematological cancers, such as chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). We observed a higher ratio of innate immune cells (Mϕ and NK) to adaptive immune cells (T and B cells) in CML bone marrow aspirates, prompting us to investigate the roles of NK and Mϕ in CML. Using coculture models simulating the tumor inflammatory environment, we observed that Mϕ protects CML from NK attack only when CML was itself mycoplasma‐infected and under chronic infection–inflammation condition. We found that the Mϕ‐protective effect on CML was associated with the maintenance of CD16 level on the NK cell membrane. Although the NK membrane CD16 (mCD16) was actively shed in Mϕ + NK + CML trioculture, the NK mCD16 level was maintained, and this was independent of the modulation of sheddase by tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 or inhibitory cytokine transforming growth factor beta. Instead, we found that this process of NK mCD16 maintenance was conferred by Mϕ in a contact‐dependent manner. We propose a new perspective on anti‐CML strategy through abrogating Mϕ‐mediated retention of NK surface CD16.
Understanding the role of ICT and study circles in enabling economic opportunities: Lessons learned from an educational project in Kenya
Authors: Hatakka Mathias , Thapa Devinder , Sæbø Øystein
Published: December 2019

In this paper, we explore how the combination of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) and self‐organised study circles improves rural communities' ability to enhance their economic opportunities. We present the case study of an adult study‐circle project in the Kwale County of Kenya with the objective of providing rural communities with viable and sustainable livelihoods. Study circles can be seen as a democratic and emancipatory method for learning, where community groups regularly meet for participatory discussions to educate themselves on a variety of topics of their own interest. The main goal of the study‐circle members was to increase economic opportunities using ICT and, more specifically, to start micro‐businesses, improve production efficacy and methods, and obtain employment. Using the capability approach and affordances as theoretical lenses, our analysis of the explorative case study shows that the outcomes of the study circle were dependent on various conversion factors and facilitating conditions, such as resources, skills, socio‐cultural norms, and infrastructure. The main contributions from our work are represented by the five practical lessons learned from the study‐circle members' goals (starting micro‐businesses, product efficiency, and obtaining employment) from the self‐organised training approach (study circles) and from our theoretical approach (combining the capability approach and affordances).
In‐situ observation of AlN formation from Ni‐Al solution using an electromagnetic levitation technique
Authors: Adachi Masayoshi , Hamaya Sonoko , Yamagata Yuji , Loach Andrew J. , Fada Justin S. , Wilson Laura G. , French Roger H. , Carter Jennifer L. W. , Fukuyama Hiroyuki
Published: December 2019

Aluminum nitride is a promising substrate material for AlGaN‐based UV‐LED. In order to develop a robust growth processing route for AlN single crystals, fundamental studies of solution growth experiments using Ni‐Al alloy melts as a new solution system were performed. Al can be stably kept in solution the Ni‐Al liquid even at high temperature; in addition, the driving force of the AlN formation reaction from solution can be controlled by solution composition and temperature. To investigate AlN crystal growth behavior we developed an in situ observation system using an electromagnetic levitation technique. AlN formation behavior, including nucleation and growth, was quantitatively analyzed by an image processing pipeline. The nucleation rate of AlN decreased with increasing growth temperature and decreasing aluminum composition. In addition, hexagonal c‐axis oriented AlN crystal successfully grew on the levitated Ni‐40 mol%Al droplet reacted at low driving force (1960 K), on the other hand, AlN crystal with dendritic morphology appeared on the sample with higher driving force (Ni‐50 mol%Al, 1960 K). Thus, the nucleation rate and crystal morphology were dominated by the driving force of the AlN formation reaction.
Invasive lumbricid earthworms in North America—Different life histories but common dispersal?
Authors: Klein Andreas , Eisenhauer Nico , Schaefer Ina
Published: December 2019

Aim

Lumbricid earthworms are invasive across northern North America, causing notable changes in forest ecosystems. During their range expansion, they encountered harsher climatic conditions compared to their native ranges in short time (~400 years). This study investigated if (a) dispersal barriers, (b) climatic selection or (c) anthropogenic activities, that is fishing bait disposal, structure the dispersal of free‐living earthworm populations.

Location

North America, forest habitats along former Wisconsinan glaciation line.

Taxon

Lumbricus terrestris, L. rubellus.

Methods

Lumbricus terrestris and L. rubellus co‐occur in the same habitats but differ in ecology and use as fishing bait. Both species were sampled in five transects ranging from the east to the west coast of northern North America, including major dispersal barriers, three different climate zones, and bait shops near sampling locations. Genetic diversity and structure were compared between the two species, and the presence of free‐living bait shop genotypes was assessed using four markers (COI, 16S rDNA, 12S rDNA, and H3).

Results

Populations of both species were genetically diverse with some geographic structure, which was more pronounced in L. terrestris than in L. rubellus. Common haplotypes were present in all regions, but locally restricted haplotypes also occurred. Furthermore, two distinct genetic clades of L. terrestris co‐occurred only in the two most distant transects (Alberta and Minnesota). Genotypes identical to bait individuals were omnipresent in field populations of L. terrestris.

Main Conclusions

Genetic diversity was high in both species, and invasive populations represented a genetic subset of European earthworms. Geographic and climatic dispersal barriers affected the less mobile species, L. terrestris, resulting in differences in genetic structure between the two species. Our results indicate common long‐distance dispersal vectors and vectors affecting only L. terrestris. The roles of climate and anthropogenic activities are discussed, providing additional explanations of dispersal and new insights into establishment of invasive earthworm populations.
Diagnostic accuracy and safety of short‐term teledermoscopic monitoring of atypical melanocytic lesions
Authors: Berglund S. , Bogren L. , Paoli J.
Published: December 2019

Background

Short‐term dermoscopic monitoring (STDM) of atypical melanocytic lesions (AML) after 3.0–4.5 months can be used to detect featureless melanomas without performing countless unnecessary excisions of nevi. Recently, short‐term teledermoscopic monitoring (STTM) was incorporated into the STDM clinical routine at Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Gothenburg, Sweden. Follow‐up images for STTM were taken by an assistant nurse with subsequent teledermoscopic assessment by a dermatologist.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy and safety of STTM.

Methods

In this retrospective observational study, data from electronic health records of patients with teledermoscopically monitored AMLs were explored. The number of changed and excised AMLs and their histopathological diagnoses were recorded. The excised AMLs were categorized into three subgroups according to when they changed and were excised: (i) following STTM, (ii) after planned long‐term follow‐up or (iii) after unplanned long‐term follow‐up.

Results

A total of 686 patients with 883 AMLs were monitored with STTM. Sixty‐two AMLs (7.0%) were excised following STTM, 14 (1.6%) after planned long‐term follow‐up and 10 (1,1%) after unplanned long‐term follow‐up. Twenty‐one melanomas were detected using STTM, three after planned long‐term follow‐up and three after unplanned long‐term follow‐up. All melanomas were in situ (n = 20) or thin and non‐ulcerated (n = 7; median Breslow thickness 0.4 mm, range 0.3–0.8 mm). The sensitivity for the diagnosis of melanoma by means of STTM with the option of additional planned follow‐up was 88.9%, and the specificity was 93.9%. The number of AMLs needed to monitor in order to detect one melanoma with the STTM routine was 32.7, and the number needed to excise was 3.2.

Conclusions

STTM of AMLs was safe and allowed for high diagnostic accuracy. All detected melanomas were in situ or thin and non‐ulcerated. Furthermore, a considerable number of unnecessary excisions were spared.
Alterations in innate immunity and epithelial cell differentiation are the molecular pillars of hidradenitis suppurativa
Authors: Zouboulis C.C. , Nogueira da Costa A. , Makrantonaki E. , Hou X.X. , Almansouri D. , Dudley J.T. , Edwards H. , Readhead B. , Balthasar O. , Jemec G.B.E. , Bonitsis N.G. , Nikolakis G. , Trebing D. , Zouboulis K.C. , Hossini A.M.
Published: December 2019

Background

The large unmet need of hidradenitis suppurativa/acne inversa (HS) therapy requires the elucidation of disease‐driving mechanisms and tissue targeting.

Objective

Robust characterization of the underlying HS mechanisms and detection of the involved skin compartments.

Methods

Hidradenitis suppurativa/acne inversa molecular taxonomy and key signalling pathways were studied by whole transcriptome profiling. Dysregulated genes were detected by comparing lesional and non‐lesional skin obtained from female HS patients and matched healthy controls using the Agilent array platform. The differential gene expression was confirmed by quantitative real‐time PCR and targeted protein characterization via immunohistochemistry in another set of female patients. HS‐involved skin compartments were also recognized by immunohistochemistry.

Results

Alterations to key regulatory pathways involving glucocorticoid receptor, atherosclerosis, HIF1α and IL17A signalling as well as inhibition of matrix metalloproteases were detected. From a functional standpoint, cellular assembly, maintenance and movement, haematological system development and function, immune cell trafficking and antimicrobial response were key processes probably being affected in HS. Sixteen genes were found to characterize HS from a molecular standpoint (DEFB4, MMP1, GJB2, PI3, KRT16, MMP9, SERPINB4, SERPINB3, SPRR3, S100A8, S100A9, S100A12, S100A7A (15), KRT6A, TCN1, TMPRSS11D). Among the proteins strongly expressed in HS, calgranulin‐A, calgranulin‐B and serpin‐B4 were detected in the hair root sheath, koebnerisin and connexin‐32 in stratum granulosum, transcobalamin‐1 in stratum spinosum/hair root sheath, small prolin‐rich protein‐3 in apocrine sweat gland ducts/sebaceous glands‐ducts and matrix metallopeptidase‐9 in resident monocytes.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight a panel of immune‐related drivers in HS, which influence innate immunity and cell differentiation in follicular and epidermal keratinocytes as well as skin glands.
Depression, anxiety and quality of life in subjects with atopic eczema in a population‐based cross‐sectional study in Germany
Authors: Treudler R. , Zeynalova S. , Riedel‐Heller S.G. , Zuelke A.E. , Roehr S. , Hinz A. , Glaesmer H. , Kage P. , Loeffler M. , Simon J.C.
Published: December 2019

Background

Atopic eczema (AE) may be associated with several mental health problems. In Germany, existing data from selected patient cohorts may lead to misestimation of the problem.

Objectives

We aimed to cross‐sectionally determine associations of AE with depression, anxiety, quality of life (QoL) and social interactions in subjects from the population‐based LIFE‐Adult‐Study.

Methods

Subjects underwent standardized interviews (medical history) and answered standardized questionnaires [Centre of Epidemiologic studies‐Depression scale (CES‐D), Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD‐7), Lubben Social Network Scale (LSNS), Short Form Health Survey (SF‐8)]. We compared data from subjects with AE with those from subjects with selected other chronic/disabling diseases (cardiovascular, diabetes, cancer) and adjusted for selected sociodemographic parameters. Multivariate binary logistic regression was used for categorical variables, linear regression for continuous variables.

Results

Out of 9104 adults included (57% female, median age 54 years), 372 (4.1%) had a history of AE. Compared with controls, subjects with AE showed higher scores for depressive symptoms (9.3% vs. 6.3%; P < 0.001) and anxiety (8.4% vs. 5.6%, P < 0.001). Odds ratio (OR) was 1.5 [CI 1.0; 2.3] (P = 0.031) for depression, which was comparable to OR in patients with a history of cancer (OR 1.6 [1–2.3], P = 0.001. OR for anxiety in AE was 1.5 [1.0; 2.2], P < 0.049, which was slightly higher than in diabetes mellitus (OR 1.2) and stroke (OR 1.4). Other than in diabetes and/or stroke, we did not find a significant association between AE and social isolation. QoL scores were lower in AE than in controls (mean 46.9 vs. 48.0, P < 0.001 for physical and 50.6 vs. 52.5, P < 0.001 for mental components).

Conclusions

Subjects with AE showed higher values for depression and anxiety as well as lower QoL scores compared to controls. With regard to depression, odds in AE and cancer were hardly different. Medical care of AE patients should therefore include mental health evaluation and treatment if indicated.
Reproductive physiological characteristics of tropical Celebes eels Anguilla celebesensis in relation to downstream migration and ovarian development
Authors: Hagihara Seishi , Aoyama Jun , Sudo Ryusuke , Limbong Daniel , Ijiri Shigeho , Adachi Shinji , Tsukamoto Katsumi
Published: December 2019

Downstream‐migrating (n = 64) and non‐migrating (n = 21) female Celebes eels Anguilla celebesensis were captured from the Poso Lake–River system on Sulawesi Island, Indonesia, and their reproductive physiological characteristics were examined. A histological observation of the ovaries revealed that most non‐migrating eels were at the perinucleolus (43%) or oil‐droplet (48%) stage, whereas most migrating eels were at the early vitellogenic (36%) or midvitellogenic (61%) stage. Transcript levels of gonadotropin genes (fshb, lhb) in the pituitary gland and concentrations of sex steroids [11‐ketotestosterone (11‐KT), testosterone, 17β‐oestradiol (E2)] in blood plasma of migrating eels were significantly higher than those of non‐migrating eels. The fshb messenger (m)RNA levels were lower in perinucleolus and oil‐droplet stages and then significantly increased in the early vitellogenic stage. The lhb mRNA levels in vitellogenic‐stage eels were significantly higher than those in perinucleolus‐ and oil‐droplet‐stage eels. The 11‐KT levels of eels at the oil‐droplet and vitellogenic stages were significantly higher than those of eels at the perinucleolus stage. The E2 levels at the vitellogenic stage were significantly higher than those at the perinucleolus and oil‐droplet stages. These dynamics of the reproductive hormones represented the physiological background of oogenesis in A. celebesensis that has remarkably well‐developed oocytes just before downstream migration.
Antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of burgers with quinoa peptide‐loaded nanoliposomes
Authors: Yekta Mina Mahdavi , Rezaei Mohammad , Nouri Leila , Azizi Mohammad H. , Jabbari Maryam , Eş Ismail , Khaneghah Amin Mousavi
Published: December 2019

This study was aimed to examine the antioxidant (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances [TBARS], peroxide value [PV], and as well as antimicrobial (total bacterial count, Staphylococcus aureus [S. aureus], mold and yeast counts) activities and spoilage indices (total volatile base nitrogen [TVB‐N]) of quinoa peptide‐loaded liposomes incorporated into burger during 12 days of refrigerated storage. Among four prepared batches, the lowest TBARS, PV, and TVB‐N values (0.281 ± 0.05 mg MDA/kg, 3.25 ± 0.34 mEq/kg and 18.65 ± 0.88%, respectively) were correlated with T3 treatment (5 mg/ml peptide). A significant different in the antimicrobial activity among each treatment after 12 days of storage was noted. At the end of refrigerated storage, the highest mean of total bacterial count, S. aureus, mold and yeast (8.36 ± 0.22, 4.19 ± 0.2, and 3.28 ± 0.05 log CFU/g, respectively) were observed in control group, while the lowest corresponded values (3.95 ± 0.2, 2.52 ± 0.25, and 1.52 ± 0.02 log CFU/g, respectively) were noted in T3 treatment. The results showed that the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of the examined burgers were improved by incorporation of liposomes quinoa peptides encapsulated.
Contextualizing reversal: Local dynamics of the Northern Cities Shift in a Chicago community
Authors: D'Onofrio Annette , Benheim Jaime
Published: December 2019

This paper examines the apparent time evolution of the Northern Cities Vowel Shift among 42 White speakers in one Chicago community. We analyse quantitative patterns of community‐wide vocalic change alongside individual speakers’ lived experiences and attitudes. We find that some features of the Shift are dramatically reversing at the community level, and that changing demographics and social concerns across the community’s history condition which speakers are likely to advance or reverse the Shift. Although some have argued that regionalized sound change reversals reflect speakers’ increasing extra‐local orientations, in this community, we suggest that reversal reflects shifting definitions of racialized localness, including younger speakers’ orientation away from particular emblematic local personae that have become linked with the Shift. We argue that sound changes must be understood in their evolving local contexts, as they can be driven by shifts in the social meanings attached to place‐linked features and in definitions of localness.
Nonspecific expression of fertilization genes in the crown‐of‐thorns Acanthaster cf. solaris: Unexpected evidence of hermaphroditism in a coral reef predator
Authors: Guerra Vanessa , Haynes Gwilym , Byrne Maria , Yasuda Nina , Adachi Souta , Nakamura Masako , Nakachi Shu , Hart Michael W.
Published: December 2019

The characterization of gene expression in gametes has advanced our understanding of the molecular basis for ecological variation in reproductive success and the evolution of reproductive isolation. These advances are especially significant for ecologically important keystone predators such as the coral‐eating crown‐of‐thorns sea stars (COTS, Acanthaster) which are the most influential predator species in Indo‐Pacific coral reef ecosystems and the focus of intensive management efforts. We used RNA‐seq and transcriptome assemblies to characterize the expression of genes in mature COTS gonads. We described the sequence and domain organization of eight genes with sex‐specific expression and well known functions in fertilization in other echinoderms. We found unexpected expression of genes in one ovary transcriptome that are characteristic of males and sperm, including genes that encode the sperm‐specific guanylate cyclase receptor for an egg pheromone, and the sperm acrosomal protein bindin. In a reassembly of previously published RNA‐seq data from COTS testes, we found a complementary pattern: strong expression of four genes that are otherwise well known to encode egg‐specific fertilization proteins, including the egg receptor for bindin (EBR1) and the acrosome reaction‐inducing substance in the egg coat (ARIS1, ARIS2, ARIS3). We also found histological evidence of both eggs and sperm developing in the same gonad in several COTS individuals from a parallel study. These results suggest the occurrence of hermaphrodites, and the potential for reproductive assurance via self‐fertilization. Our findings have implications for management of COTS populations, especially in consideration of the large size and massive fecundity of these sea stars.