bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The arrangement of the coronary artery trunks is subject to inheritance factors: A study in Syrian hamsters
Authors: Soto‐Navarrete M. T. , Arqué J. M. , Durán A. C. , Fernández M. C. , López‐Unzu M. A. , Lorenzale M. , Sans‐Coma V. , Fernández B.
Published: December 2017

The concept that anatomical variations in the coronary artery tree might be influenced by genes is relatively old. However, empirical evidence on the effect of genotype on the coronary morphology is still scarce. In the Syrian hamster, there is a septal coronary artery which arises from the left or from the right coronary artery and supplies most of the interventricular septum. The aim was to decide whether the anatomical origin of the septal artery is subject to inheritance factors. Overall, 483 internal casts of the heart and coronary arteries were examined. All the hamsters included in this study had normal coronary arteries. The results of 74 crosses were compared statistically to seek for any significant difference between the phenotypes of the offspring and the phenotypes of the parents. The left septal artery was over‐represented in the offspring of crosses between parents having both a left septal artery (p < .01), while the right septal artery was over‐represented in the offspring of crosses between parents, one with a right and the other with a left septal artery (p < .001), and, more markedly, in the offspring of crosses between parents both with a right septal artery (p < .001). These results are the first to reveal that the coronary artery pattern is influenced by genetic factors, at least in its proximal portion with regard to the aorta.
Regional nerve blockade for early analgesic management of elderly patients with hip fracture – a narrative review
Authors: Scurrah A. , Shiner C. T. , Stevens J. A. , Faux S. G.
Published: December 2017

Elderly patients with hip fracture experience high morbidity and mortality, and are often undertreated for pain. Acute pain management in the elderly is challenging, with physiological frailty, medical comorbidities and cognitive impairment commonly compounding pain assessment and treatment. Guidelines outlining current best practice for acute pain management in the elderly now exist, but evidence suggests that practice remains variable and there continues to be scope for improvement. We conducted a narrative review of the literature to examine the challenges of acute pain management in the elderly, and to evaluate evidence for the role of regional nerve blocks for acute pain associated with hip fracture in the elderly. There is consistent evidence that regional nerve blocks can effectively reduce pain associated with hip fracture, providing rapid‐onset, site‐specific analgesia that is more effective than standard systemic analgesia alone. There is also moderate evidence that nerve blocks may contribute to reduced rates of delirium, and some suggestion of reduced length of inpatient stay, morbidity and mortality, although limited evidence is available. Fascia iliaca blocks are emerging as a block of choice, with evidence they can be safely and rapidly administered under ultrasound guidance in the acute setting, by both trained medical and nursing staff, with good effect. Ideally, comprehensive pain protocols for elderly hip fracture patients are required, that integrate evidence‐based fascia iliaca block use, timely and repeated pain assessment, and multidisciplinary orthogeriatric patient care.
Protective effects of melatonin on the in vitro developmental competence of bovine oocytes
Authors: Pang Yunwei , Zhao Shanjiang , Sun Yeqing , Jiang Xiaolong , Hao Haisheng , Du Weihua , Zhu Huabin
Published: December 2017

The present study investigated the effects of melatonin on bovine oocyte maturation and subsequent embryonic development in vitro. Results showed that the nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation, characterized by first polar body extrusion, normal distribution of cortical granules and mitochondria, as well as increased mitochondrial membrane potential, were significantly improved in 10−9 mol/L melatonin‐treated oocytes. Melatonin supplementation reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species level and enhanced glutathione production. Meanwhile, the presence of melatonin (10−9 mol/L) during oocyte maturation resulted in a decreased early apoptotic rate in oocytes. After in vitro fertilization, oocytes receiving melatonin supplementation exhibited a significantly higher blastocyst formation rate and yielded a markedly lower number of apoptotic cells. Mechanistic explorations showed that addition of 10−9 mol/L melatonin to in vitro maturation media significantly attenuated the transcript level of caspase‐3, while the expressions of BCL‐2, XIAP, CAT and HSP70 were significantly reinforced in the resultant embryos. Taken together, melatonin ameliorates bovine oocyte maturation potential, and the beneficial effects can affect subsequent embryonic development. The protective role of melatonin may be due to its anti‐apoptotic and anti‐oxidative activities.
Individual and interpersonal emotion regulation among adults with substance use disorders and matched controls
Authors: Dingle Genevieve A. , Neves Diana da Costa , Alhadad Sakinah S. J. , Hides Leanne
Published: December 2017

Objectives

Self‐report studies show that negative emotional states and ineffective use of emotion regulation strategies are key maintaining factors of substance use disorders (SUD). However, experimental research into emotional processing in adults with SUD is in its infancy. Theoretical conceptualizations of emotion regulation have shifted from a focus on individual (internal) processes to one that encompasses social and interpersonal functions – including the regulation of facial expression of emotion. The purpose of this study was to examine the individual and interpersonal emotion regulation capacity of 35 adults in residential treatment diagnosed with a SUD compared to 35 demographically matched controls (both samples Mage = 25 years; 37% females).

Design and methods

Participants completed a facial emotion expression flexibility task while viewing emotive images, as well as the Difficulties of Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS) and the Social (Emotion) Expectancy Scale (SES).

Results

Adults in SUD treatment experienced significantly more emotion regulation difficulties on all DERS subscales than controls. They also reported higher levels of negative self‐evaluation and social expectancies not to feel negative emotions (anxiety and depression) compared to controls. Moreover, when viewing emotive images, the treatment sample showed significantly less flexibility of their emotional expression compared to the control sample.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate that the awareness, expression, and regulation of emotions are particularly difficult for people with SUD and this may maintain their substance use and provide an important target for treatment.

Practitioner points

Compared to matched controls, adults with substance use disorders self‐report significantly more difficulties with emotional awareness and regulation.

Compared to matched controls, adults with substance use disorders report significantly greater expectancies not to show depression and anxiety.

When viewing positive and negative images, adults with substance use disorders are significantly less flexible in their facial expression of emotion than matched controls in response to regulatory instructions.

Emotion regulation should be measured and addressed as part of substance use disorder treatment.
Union Renewal and Workplace Greening — Three Case Studies
Authors: Farnhill Tom
Published: December 2017

This article evaluates the renewal potential of three unions’ workplace greening agendas in three large workplaces. The cases suggest the agenda is easy to initiate with members and employers and has tangible environmental benefits but is labour intensive and difficult to sustain beyond focusing events. There is limited evidence that the agenda attracts new members but stronger evidence that it attracts new activists. Although facilitative of partnership, unions are mainly cast as environmental watchdogs and trouble‐shooters. The findings suggest that even timely, popular, developmental agendas, conducive to partnership, can have only a moderate effect on union renewal and must be consciously configured to do so properly.
Propensity matched comparative analysis of survival following chemoradiation or radical cystectomy for muscle‐invasive bladder cancer
Authors: Ritch Chad R. , Balise Raymond , Prakash Nachiketh Soodana , Alonzo David , Almengo Katherine , Alameddine Mahmoud , Venkatramani Vivek , Punnen Sanoj , Parekh Dipen J. , Gonzalgo Mark L.
Published: December 2017

Objective

To compare survival outcome between chemoradiation therapy (CRT) and radical cystectomy (RC) for muscle‐invasive bladder cancer (MIBC).

Patients and Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients with MIBC (≥cT2, N0, M0) in the National Cancer Database (2004–2013). CRT was defined as a radiation dose of ≥40 Gy and chemotherapy within 90 days of radiation. Descriptive statistics were used to compare groups. RC and CRT patients were propensity matched. Kaplan–Meier analysis was used to compare overall survival (OS). Multivariable Cox regression was used to determine predictors of survival.

Results

In all, 8 379 (6 606 RC and 1 773 CRT) patients met the inclusion criteria and 1 683 patients in each group were propensity matched. On multivariable extended Cox analysis, significant predictors of decreased OS were age, Charlson‐Deyo Comorbidity score of 1, Charlson‐Deyo Comorbidity score of 2, stage cT3–4, and urothelial histology. CRT was associated with decreased mortality at year 1 (hazard ratio [HR] 0.84, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.74–0.96; P = 0.01), but at 2 years (HR 1.4, 95% CI 1.2–1.6; P < 0.001) and 3 years onward (HR 1.5, 95% CI 1.2–1.8; P < 0.001) CRT was associated with increased mortality. The 5‐year OS was greater for RC than for CRT (38% vs 30%, P = 0.004).

Conclusions

Initially after treatment for MIBC the risk of mortality is lower with CRT compared to RC. However, at ≥2 years after treatment the mortality risk favours RC. Patients who are suitable surgical candidates, with a low risk of morbidity, may be better served by RC.
Role of signalling molecules in behaviours mediated by the δ opioid receptor agonist SNC80
Authors: Dripps Isaac J , Boyer Brett T , Neubig Richard R , Rice Kenner C , Traynor John R , Jutkiewicz Emily M
Published: December 2017

Background and Purpose

GPCRs exist in multiple conformations that can engage distinct signalling mechanisms which in turn may lead to diverse behavioural outputs. In rodent models, activation of the δ opioid receptor (δ‐receptor) has been shown to elicit antihyperalgesia, antidepressant‐like effects and convulsions. We recently showed that these δ‐receptor‐mediated behaviours are differentially regulated by the GTPase‐activating protein regulator of G protein signalling 4 (RGS4), which facilitates termination of G protein signalling. To further evaluate the signalling mechanisms underlying δ‐receptor‐mediated antihyperalgesia, antidepressant‐like effects and convulsions, we observed how changes in Gαo or arrestin proteins in vivo affected behaviours elicited by the δ‐receptor agonist SNC80 in mice.

Experimental Approach

Transgenic mice with altered expression of various signalling molecules were used in the current studies. Antihyperalgesia was measured in a nitroglycerin‐induced thermal hyperalgesia assay. Antidepressant‐like effects were evaluated in the forced swim test. Mice were also observed for convulsive activity following SNC80 treatment.

Key Results

In Gαo RGS‐insensitive heterozygous knock‐in mice, the potency of SNC80 to produce antihyperalgesia and antidepressant‐like effects was enhanced with no change in SNC80‐induced convulsions. Conversely, in Gαo heterozygous knockout mice, SNC80‐induced antihyperalgesia was abolished while antidepressant‐like effects and convulsions were unaltered. No changes in SNC80‐induced behaviours were observed in arrestin 3 knockout mice. SNC80‐induced convulsions were potentiated in arrestin 2 knockout mice.

Conclusions and Implications

Taken together, these findings suggest that different signalling molecules may underlie the convulsive effects of the δ‐receptor relative to its antihyperalgesic and antidepressant‐like effects.
Proton‐independent activation of acid‐sensing ion channel 3 by an alkaloid, lindoldhamine, from Laurus nobilis
Authors: Osmakov Dmitry I , Koshelev Sergey G , Andreev Yaroslav A , Dubinnyi Maxim A , Kublitski Vadim S , Efremov Roman G , Sobolevsky Alexander I , Kozlov Sergey A
Published: December 2017

Background and Purpose

Acid‐sensing ion channels (ASICs) play an important role in synaptic plasticity and learning, as well as in nociception and mechanosensation. ASICs are involved in pain and in neurological and psychiatric diseases, but their therapeutic potential is limited by the lack of ligands activating them at physiological pH.

Experimental Approach

We extracted, purified and determined the structure of a bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid, lindoldhamine, (LIN) from laurel leaves. Its effect on ASIC3 channels were characterized, using two‐electrode voltage‐clamp electrophysiological recordings from Xenopus laevis oocytes.

Key Results

At pH 7.4 or higher, LIN activated a sustained, proton‐independent, current through rat and human ASIC3 channels, but not rat ASIC1a or ASIC2a channels. LIN also potentiated proton‐induced transient currents and promoted recovery from desensitization in human, but not rat, ASIC3 channels.

Conclusions and Implications

We describe a novel ASIC subtype‐specific agonist LIN, which induced proton‐independent activation of human and rat ASIC3 channels at physiological pH. LIN also acts as a positive allosteric modulator of human, but not rat, ASIC3 channels. This unique, species‐selective, ligand of ASIC3, opens new avenues in studies of ASIC structure and function, as well as providing new approaches to drug design.
Implementing a Point‐Based Rewards System as an Educational Tool in Children's Home: From Standardisation to Coconstruction and Negotiation
Authors: Palomares Manuel , Poveda David , Hall Chris
Published: December 2017

From a wider educational ethnography, we analysed the implementation of a point‐based reward system as an educational tool in a Spanish children's home. This is examined within a policy and ideological framework strongly influenced by Evidence‐Based Practice, Standardization and New Public Management. The findings show, first, how this system relied on a balance between greater use of standard tools and the experience of the managers; second, how, in practice, basic procedures regarding the system's rigour and objectivity were altered; and third, how the ratings given to evaluate children were very often coconstructed and influenced by broader individual, social and institutional processes.
A tale of two cases of pulmonary arteriovenous malformation: How they fared after cardiac transplantation
Authors: Wisotzkey Bethany L. , Magyar Dari L. , Jones Thomas K. , Boucek Robert J. , Permut Lester C. , Kemna Mariska S. , Law Yuk M.
Published: December 2017

Background

In single ventricle patients, aortopulmonary collaterals (APCs) and pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (PAVMs) following superior cavopulmonary shunt (CPS) can complicate orthotopic heart transplant (OHT) by cyanosis and hemoptysis. Although PAVMs can regress with the restoration of hepatic venous flow to the pulmonary circulation, the effects of hypoxemia on the “unconditioned” allograft are not known.

Cases

Two patients with significant PAVMs after CPS were cyanotic following OHT. One patient with predominantly unilateral left PAVMs had arterial saturation levels less than 70% despite pulmonary vasodilators and ventilation. A custom flow restrictor‐covered stent was deployed in the pulmonary artery of the affected side, redirecting the blood flow to the contralateral lung, immediately improving cyanosis. When the PAVMs regressed, the flow restrictor stent was dilated to eliminate the constriction. The second patient with PAVMs had cyanosis and severe hemoptysis from APCs post‐OHT. The APCs required an extensive coil embolization, while the cyanosis responded to oxygen and pulmonary vasodilators. Both recipients did well with gradual resolution of PAVMs within 8 months.

Conclusions

Despite cyanosis from right‐to‐left intrapulmonary shunting, allograft function recovered. Novel transcatheter interventions can play a role in patients with significant APCs or PAVM following cardiac transplantation.
Electronic messaging and communication with living kidney donors
Authors: Ruck Jessica M. , Zhou Sheng , Thomas Alvin G. , Cramm Shannon L. , Massie Allan B. , Montgomery John R. , Berger Jonathan C. , Henderson Macey L. , Segev Dorry L.
Published: December 2017

New regulations require living kidney donor (LKD) follow‐up for 2 years, but donor retention remains poor. Electronic communication (eg, text messaging and e‐mail) might improve donor retention. To explore the possible impact of electronic communication, we recruited LKDs to participate in an exploratory study of communication via telephone, e‐mail, or text messaging postdonation; communication through this study was purely optional and did not replace standard follow‐up. Of 69 LKDs recruited, 3% requested telephone call, 52% e‐mail, and 45% text messaging. Telephone response rate was 0%; these LKDs were subsequently excluded from analysis. Overall response rates with e‐mail or text messaging at 1 week, 1 month, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years were 94%, 87%, 81%, 72%, and 72%. Lower response rates were seen in African Americans, even after adjusting for age, sex, and contact method (incidence rate ratio (IRR) nonresponse 2.075.8116.36, P = .001). Text messaging had higher response rates than e‐mail (IRR nonresponse 0.110.280.71, P = .007). Rates of nonresponse were similar by sex (IRR 0.68, P = .4) and age (IRR 1.00, P > .9). In summary, LKDs strongly preferred electronic messaging over telephone and were highly responsive 2 years postdonation, even in this nonrequired, nonincentivized exploratory research study. These electronic communication tools can be automated and may improve regulatory compliance and postdonation care.
Contesting Financial Inclusion
Authors: Mader Philip
Published: December 2017

This contribution critically assesses financial inclusion as an intervention in the development space. It examines the turn from microfinance to financial inclusion, with the introduction of new actors and practices; new ideas and ideologies; new theories of change; and new expectations toward clients. It then considers three key issues and contests the arguments made by proponents of financial inclusion about them: first, the argument that financial inclusion facilitates broader development outcomes; second, the claim that poor people gain poverty alleviation through financial inclusion; and third, the suggestion that financial inclusion is good business. In all three areas, the author highlights shortcomings in the evidence base and argues that high expectations of financial inclusion serving as a core pro‐poor, private‐sector led development intervention lack justification. Rather, financial inclusion should be recognized as a contested and contestable enterprise.
Historical review of the discovery of cadherin, in memory of Tokindo Okada
Authors: Takeichi Masatoshi
Published: December 2017

The cadherin family of cell–cell adhesion molecules plays a pivotal role in animal tissue formation. Discovery of this molecular family can be traced back to some unexpected observations of strange cell behavior that were made around 1970 in the Kyoto University laboratory of Tokindo Okada, and then in the Department of Embryology at the Carnegie Institution of Washington (currently the Carnegie Institution for Science). This article looks back on these discoveries, and recalls how these observations led to the identification of important cell‐cell adhesion molecules known as cadherins.
Gender and enterprise in fragile refugee settings: female empowerment amidst male emasculation—a challenge to local integration?
Authors: Ritchie Holly A.
Published: December 2017

This paper examines gender and enterprise in fragile refugee settings. Building on previous research in Afghanistan, it analyses refugee women's evolving economic lives and enterprise initiatives and related social dynamics in refugee communities. Case studies look specifically at two Islamic refugee contexts: Nairobi, Kenya (Somali refugees), and Irbid and Zarqa, Jordan (Syrian refugees). The discussion spotlights the precarious nature of refugee women's new practices and work norms under forced and strained circumstances, without a process of negotiation with male family members. In the case of longer‐term refugees (Somalis), it describes new collective agency among refugee women, boosting support for new practices. The paper reflects on emerging gender roles and relations in such hostile conditions, particularly as men remain excluded and struggle for their own identity and authority. In addition, it draws attention to the gap relating to refugee men and policymaking, and highlights ways to address better their needs for refugee resilience, inclusion, and local integration.
Relationship between treatment persistence and A1C trends among patients with type 2 diabetes newly initiating basal insulin
Authors: Zhou Fang Liz , Xie Lin , Pan Chunshen , Wang Yuexi , Vaidya Neel , Ye Fen , Preblick Ronald , Meneghini Luigi
Published: December 2017

This study examines the relationship between glycated haemoglobin (A1C) levels and treatment persistence with, or time to discontinuation of, basal insulin in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) newly initiating insulin. Claims data were extracted from the Optum Clinformatics database from January 2010 to June 2015. Adult patients with T2D initiating insulin glargine 100 U/mL (Gla‐100) or insulin detemir (DET) with ≥1 A1C measurement during 12‐month baseline and 18‐month follow‐up periods were included. Patients with a refill gap of >90 days were considered non‐persistent; otherwise, patients were considered persistent with insulin. The main outcome was A1C, measured closest to the end of each quarter during the follow‐up period. A total of 3993 of 109 934 patients met the inclusion criteria (43.0% persistent; 57.0% non‐persistent). Persistent patients were older (54.7 vs 52.7 years; P < .001), were more likely to be male (59.4% vs 54.4%; P = .002), and had significantly lower mean unadjusted A1C values at 18 months (8.26% vs 8.60%; P < .001) and quarterly. Only 43.0% of adults initiating basal insulin persisted with treatment for 18 months, with earlier discontinuation associated with higher A1C.
Left atrial appendage myxofibrosarcoma: A rare masquerader of myxoma and thrombus—“all that glitters is not gold”
Authors: Khan Muhammad Shoaib , Reddy Sahadev , Lombardi Richard , Isabel Pitti , Mcgregor Walter E. , Tang Bang , Gabriel George , Biederman Robert W
Published: December 2017

Left atrial appendage mass can occasionally pose a serious challenge to physicians to identify the nature of the mass with the aid of imaging techniques. We present a case of 67‐year‐old man, who was evaluated for suspected left atria myxoma. Transesophageal echocardiography revealed a heterogeneous density originating from left atrial appendage, thought to be most consistent with a myxoma. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, uncharacteristically, gave an equivocal picture, suggesting the mass to be a myxoma on initial imaging and a thrombus with evidence of liquefaction necrosis following postcontrast enhancement. Surprisingly, histopathology of the mass following its surgical excision yielded a rare diagnosis of myxofibrosarcoma.
Effects of grain size and niche breadth on species distribution modeling
Authors: Connor Thomas , Hull Vanessa , Viña Andrés , Shortridge Ashton , Tang Ying , Zhang Jindong , Wang Fang , Liu Jianguo
Published: December 2017

Scale is a vital component to consider in ecological research, and spatial resolution or grain size is one of its key facets. Species distribution models (SDMs) are prime examples of ecological research in which grain size is an important component. Despite this, SDMs rarely explicitly examine the effects of varying the grain size of the predictors for species with different niche breadths. To investigate the effect of grain size and niche breadth on SDMs, we simulated four virtual species with different grain sizes/niche breadths using three environmental predictors (elevation, aspect, and percent forest) across two real landscapes of differing heterogeneity in predictor values. We aggregated these predictors to seven different grain sizes and modeled the distribution of each of our simulated species using MaxEnt and GLM techniques at each grain size. We examined model accuracy using the AUC statistic, Pearson's correlations of predicted suitability with the true suitability, and the binary area of presence determined from suitability above the maximum true skill statistic (TSS) threshold. Habitat specialists were more accurately modeled than generalist species, and the models constructed at the grain size from which a species was derived generally performed the best. The accuracy of models in the homogenous landscape deteriorated with increasing grain size to a greater degree than models in the heterogenous landscape. Variable effects on the model varied with grain size, with elevation increasing in importance as grain size increased while aspect lost importance. The area of predicted presence was drastically affected by grain size, with larger grain sizes over predicting this value by up to a factor of 14. Our results have implications for species distribution modeling and conservation planning, and we suggest more studies include analysis of grain size as part of their protocol.
Kant on intuitive understanding and things in themselves
Authors: Winegar Reed
Published: December 2017

Kant claims that an intuitive understanding—such as God would possess—could cognize things in themselves. This claim has prompted many interpreters of Kant's theoretical philosophy to propose that things in themselves correspond to how an intuitive understanding would cognize things. In contrast, I argue that Kant's theoretical philosophy does not endorse the common proposal that all things in themselves correspond to how an intuitive understanding would cognize things. Instead, Kant's theoretical philosophy maintains that things in themselves might or might not correspond to how an intuitive understanding would cognize things. I then consider whether Kant's moral philosophy and theory of reflecting judgment might provide alternative grounds for claiming that we should regard things in themselves as corresponding to how an intuitive understanding would cognize things. I argue that Kant's moral philosophy does not provide such grounds, but his theory of reflecting judgment does. Thus, interpretations of Kant's transcendental idealism should attend to the differences between Kant's theoretical philosophy, moral philosophy, and theory of reflecting judgment in assessing the relationship between intuitive understanding and things in themselves.
A new tool to test active ingredient using lactic acid in vitro, a help to understand cellular mechanism involved in stinging test: An example using a bacterial polysaccharide (Fucogel®)
Authors: Sakka Mehdi , Leschiera Raphael , Le Gall‐Ianotto Christelle , Gouin Olivier , L'herondelle Killian , Buscaglia Paul , Mignen Olivier , Philbé Jean‐Luc , Saguet Thibaut , Carré Jean‐Luc , Misery Laurent , Lebonvallet Nicolas
Published: December 2017

The stinging test is an in vivo protocol that evaluates sensitive skin using lactic acid (LA). A soothing sensation of cosmetics or ingredients can be also appreciated through a decrease in stinging score. To predict the soothing sensation of a product before in vivo testing, we developed a model based on an LA test and substance P (SP) release using a co‐culture of human keratinocytes and NGF‐differentiated PC12 cells. A bacterial fucose‐rich polysaccharide present in Fucogel® was evaluated as the soothing molecule in the in vivo stinging test and our in vitro model. Excluding toxic concentrations, the release of SP was significant from 0.2% of lactic acid for the PC12 cells and from 0.1% of lactic acid for the keratinocytes. When the pH was adjusted to approximately 7.4, LA did not provoke SP release. At these concentrations of LA, 0.1% of polysaccharide showed a significant decrease in SP release from the two cellular types and in co‐cultures without modifying the pH of the medium. In vivo, a stinging test using the polysaccharide showed a 30% decrease in prickling intensity vs the placebo in 19 women between the ages of 21 and 69. Our in vitro model is ethically interesting and is adapted for cosmetic ingredients screening because it does not use animal experimentation and limits human volunteers. Moreover, Fucogel® reduced prickling sensation as revealed by the in vivo stinging test and inhibits the neurogenic inflammation as showed by our new in vitro stinging test based on SP release.
Rapid evaluation of notch stress intensity factors using the peak stress method: Comparison of commercial finite element codes for a range of mesh patterns
Authors: Meneghetti G. , Campagnolo A. , Avalle M. , Castagnetti D. , Colussi M. , Corigliano P. , De Agostinis M. , Dragoni E. , Fontanari V. , Frendo F. , Goglio L. , Marannano G. , Marulo G. , Moroni F. , Pantano A. , Rebora A. , Scattina A. , Spaggiari A. , Zuccarello B.
Published: December 2017

The peak stress method (PSM) is an engineering, finite element (FE)‐oriented method to rapidly estimate the notch stress intensity factors by using the singular linear elastic peak stresses calculated from coarse FE analyses. The average element size adopted to generate the mesh pattern can be chosen arbitrarily within a given range.

Originally, the PSM has been calibrated under pure mode I and pure mode II loadings by means of Ansys FE software. In the present contribution, a round robin between 10 Italian universities has been carried out to calibrate the PSM with 7 different commercial FE codes. To this aim, several two‐dimensional mode I and mode II problems have been analysed independently by the participants. The obtained results have been used to calibrate the PSM for given stress analysis conditions in (i) FE software, (ii) element type and element formulation, (iii) mesh pattern, and (iv) criteria for stress extrapolation and principal stress analysis at FE nodes.
Global maximization of Jatropha oil production under semi‐arid conditions by balancing vegetative growth with reproductive capacity
Authors: Vaknin Yiftach , Yermiyahu Uri , Bar‐Tal Asher , Samocha Yael
Published: December 2017

Jatropha curcas L. is a drought tolerant crop that is globally cultivated under semi‐arid conditions as a biodiesel feedstock. Despite its great potential, however, many projects failed to reach commercially viable seed and oil yields. The aim of the study was to provide globally applicable solutions for maximization of Jatropha oil production under semi‐arid conditions. Under extremely low irrigation (10% of potential evapotranspiration; ETp), fruit production was very low and a surprisingly significant portion of the fruits delayed their maturity up to six months post‐bloom. Increasing irrigation to mid‐level (60% ETp) significantly elevated fruit production and speeded up the ripening rate, whereas further increasing irrigation to a higher level (90% ETp) decreased seed and oil yields, probably due to the increased investment in vegetative growth. Nevertheless, maximal seed and oil yields at 60% ETp remained far below targeted yields. Coupling irrigation at 60% ETp, with induction of vegetative arrest, by soil application of a commercial gibberellin synthesis inhibitor, brought forward the second bloom period by two months, reduced vegetative growth, promoted floral production and significantly enhanced reproductive capacity by more than doubling oil production. The results show that under semi‐arid conditions, commercially viable seed and oil yields of Jatropha can be achieved by carefully balancing vegetative growth with reproductive capacity through the combined application of optimal irrigation regimes and induced vegetative arrest.
Poplar and shrub willow energy crops in the United States: field trial results from the multiyear regional feedstock partnership and yield potential maps based on the PRISM‐ELM model
Authors: Volk Timothy A. , Berguson Bill , Daly Christopher , Halbleib Michael D. , Miller Raymond , Rials Timothy G. , Abrahamson Lawrence P. , Buchman Dan , Buford Marylin , Cunningham Michael W. , Eisenbies Mark , Fabio Eric S. , Hallen Karl , Heavey Justin , Johnson Gregg A , Kuzovkina Yulia A , Liu Bo , Mcmahon Bernie , Rousseau Randy , Shi Shun , Shuren Richard , Smart Lawrence B. , Stanosz Glen , Stanton Brain , Stokes Bryce , Wright Jeff
Published: December 2017

To increase the understanding of poplar and willow perennial woody crops and facilitate their deployment for the production of biofuels, bioproducts, and bioenergy, there is a need for broadscale yield maps. For national analysis of woody and herbaceous crops production potential, biomass feedstock yield maps should be developed using a common framework. This study developed willow and poplar potential yield maps by combining data from a network of willow and poplar field trials and the modeling power of PRISM‐ELM. Yields of the top three willow cultivars across 17 sites ranged from 3.60 to 14.6 Mg ha−1 yr−1 dry weight, while the yields from 17 poplar trials ranged from 7.5 to 15.2 Mg ha−1 yr−1. Relationships between the environmental suitability estimates from the PRISM‐ELM model and results from field trials had an R2 of 0.60 for poplar and 0.81 for willow. The resulting potential yield maps reflected the range of poplar and willow yields that have been reported in the literature. Poplar covered a larger geographic range than willow, which likely reflects the poplar breeding efforts that have occurred for many more decades using genotypes from a broader range of environments than willow. While the field trial data sets used to develop these models represent the most complete information at the time, there is a need to expand and improve the model by monitoring trials over multiple cutting cycles and across a broader range of environmental gradients. Despite some limitations, the results of these models represent a dramatic improvement in projections of potential yield of poplar and willow crops across the United States.
Advances in flowering phenology across the Northern Hemisphere are explained by functional traits
Authors: König Patrizia , Tautenhahn Susanne , Cornelissen J. Hans C. , Kattge Jens , Bönisch Gerhard , Römermann Christine
Published: December 2017

Aim

Numerous studies have reported changes in first flowering day (FFD‐changes) in response to changes in climate. However, regarding the direction (advances versus delays) and the intensity (number of days/decade) of FFD‐changes, species show differences even when observed in the same location. Here, we examine the extent to which plant traits can explain observed differences in the response of flowering phenology in trees, shrubs, herbs and grasses.

Location

Eighteen sites distributed over the Northern Hemisphere.

Methods

We compiled data from the literature on FFD‐changes over recent decades for 562 species (648 observations). We related FFD‐changes to predictor variables associated with (a) changes in climate, (b) local site conditions and (c) traits.

Results

Of all FDD‐changes, 80.4% were FFD‐advances, 69.9% not exceeding 5 days/decade, and 10.5% exceeding 5 days/decade, whereas 19.6% reported delays. The intensity of FFD‐advances could be explained by several predictor variables from all three groups (a–c). The importance of these variables differed between the growth forms. Overall, decreasing precipitation was more important than increasing temperature in explaining FFD‐advances. FFD‐advances were strongest in polar tundra and in dry and warm habitats. Traits related to competition and growth rate, like plant height, specific leaf area and leaf dry matter content, had substantial explanatory power in the models. Traits had the highest overall importance in trees and grasses. In herbs they were of equal importance with changes in climate. In shrubs, variables related to site conditions best explained the intensity of FFD‐advances.

Main conclusions

Plant traits are important to understand species‐specific and growth form‐specific differences in phenological responses to climatic changes. Hence, in future observations and predictions of plant phenology, traits should be taken into consideration, especially those related to competition and growth rate, as they improve our understanding of adaptations leading to phenological changes.
Balloon pulmonary angioplasty is effective for treating peripheral‐type chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension in elderly patients
Authors: Yamagata Yuki , Ikeda Satoshi , Nakata Tomoo , Yonekura Tsuyoshi , Koga Seiji , Muroya Takahiro , Koide Yuji , Kawano Hiroaki , Maemura Koji
Published: December 2017

Aim

Balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA) has recently been established as an effective therapy for peripheral‐type chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH). However, the safety and effectiveness of BPA in elderly patients with CTEPH have not been clarified.

Methods

A total of 19 patients with CTEPH who underwent BPA were recruited. The patients were assigned to groups by age, <70 years (non‐elderly; n = 11) and ≥70 years (elderly; n = 8). Hemodynamic parameters, right ventricular function and plasma N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide were assessed before and after BPA, and complications arising after BPA were also evaluated.

Results

Hemodynamic parameters and right heart function did not differ significantly between the two groups at baseline. BPA significantly improved pulmonary arterial pressure, pulmonary vascular resistance and fractional area change in both groups (all P < 0.05), although the differences were comparable. No fatal complications developed, but the frequency of minor complications, such as transient hemoptysis, was higher in the elderly group than in the non‐elderly group (median 0.45 [interquartile range 0.27–0.63] vs 0 [0–0.33], respectively; P = 0.021). The frequency of such complications was also higher in patients with a psychiatric disorder than in those without (0.50 [0.44–1.00] vs 0.14 [0–0.33], respectively; P = 0.006). Multivariate regression analysis identified higher age, baseline N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide values and an underlying psychiatric disorder as significant predictors of complications of BPA.

Conclusions

BPA is an effective treatment for peripheral‐type CTEPH regardless of age; however, higher age, N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide values before treatment and an underlying psychiatric disorder might be associated with minor complications. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 678–684
Texture‐modified diets are associated with decreased muscle mass in older adults admitted to a rehabilitation ward
Authors: Shimizu Akio , Maeda Keisuke , Tanaka Kei , Ogawa Mei , Kayashita Jun
Published: December 2017

Aim

Texture‐modified diets (TMD) have significantly lower energy and protein content than normal diets. Therefore, TMD can cause malnutrition and loss of muscle mass. However, few studies have reported the relationship between TMD and decreased skeletal muscle mass. The aim of the present study was to clarify the association between TMD and decreased skeletal muscle mass.

Methods

We reviewed data of 188 older adult patients who were admitted to a rehabilitation hospital. TMD were defined based on the Japanese Dysphagia Diet Criteria 2013 proposed by the Japanese Society of Dysphagia Rehabilitation. The Mini Nutritional Assessment‐Short Form was used to assess nutritional status; dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry was used to measure the skeletal muscle mass index, and the cut‐off values for decreased skeletal muscle mass index were based on the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia; the Functional Independence Measure was used to evaluate activities of daily living.

Results

The patients’ mean age was 80.6 ± 7.5 years, and 62% were women. A total of 22 patients (11.7%) consumed TMD. A total of 104 patients (55.3%) had decreased skeletal muscle mass, and approximately 90% of them consumed TMD. Decreased skeletal muscle mass index (odds ratio 7.199, 95% confidence interval 1.489–34.805, P ≤ 0.01) and Functional Independence Measure scores (odds ratio 0.972, 95% confidence interval 0.952–0.992, P ≤ 0.01) were independently related to TMD in the multivariate analysis.

Conclusions

The TMD group was associated with decreased skeletal muscle mass. Future, prospective studies are necessary to investigate causality. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 698–704
Manifest Injustice? The Judiciary as Moderator of Penal Excess in the Sentencing of Youth for Murder
Authors: LYNCH NESSA
Published: December 2017

A principled approach to the sentencing of young people requires recognition of their particular mitigating characteristics, including brain development. Contemporary approaches to the sentencing of murder involve mandatory or presumptive sentencing. Legislative allowance for judicial discretion has been suggested as a counterbalance to the punitive effect on young offenders. This article uses New Zealand as a case study to consider whether, and how, judges would exercise a ‘safety valve’ discretionary provision for young offenders. Judges acted (at least in part) to moderate penal excess in the imposition of long minimum periods of imprisonment (MPIs), but it seems that a discretionary sentencing provision of itself will not ensure proportionate and humane sentences for this category of offender. This lends support to the idea that appropriate legislative caps and a requirement of demonstrated risk to public safety for a sentence of imprisonment may be a better avenue for ensuring proportionality.
Helping, Holding, Hurting: A Conversation about Supervision
Authors: McNEILL FERGUS , MARK  , THOMAS OWY , THORNDEN‐EDWARDS KIM
Published: December 2017

This article begins with an overview of some of the late Bill McWilliams's key contributions to probation research and scholarship, focusing in particular on how his work helps us think about how people experience supervision, and about how the practice of supervision should be conceived and constructed. In the sections that follow, three of the co‐authors respond to these ideas from their different perspectives as service user, as frontline probation officer, and as probation manager. In the conclusion, we summarise the discussion by focusing on the role of values, of relationships and of evidence in the reform and development of probation.
Community pharmacists’ perspectives on shared decision-making in diabetes management
Authors: Rosenberg-Yunger Zahava R S , Verweel Lee , Gionfriddo Michael R , MacCallum Lori , Dolovich Lisa
Published: December 2017

Objectives

Shared decision-making (SDM) is an approach where patients and clinicians share evidence and patients are supported to deliberate options resulting in preference-based informed decisions. The aim of this study was to describe community pharmacists’ perceptions and awareness of SDM within their provision of general diabetes management [including Ontario's MedsCheck for Diabetes (MCD) programme], and potential challenges of implementing SDM within community pharmacy.

Methods

This qualitative study used semistructured interviews with a convenience sample of community pharmacists. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Key findings

We conducted 16 interviews. Six participants were male, and nine were certified diabetes educators. When providing a MCD, participants used aspects of a patient-centred approach focusing on providing education. Variation was evident in participants’ description and use of SDM, as well as in their perceived level of training in SDM. Participants also highlighted challenges surrounding implementing a SDM approach in practice.

Conclusion

Pharmacists are well positioned to apply SDM within community settings; however, implementation barriers exist. Pharmacists will require additional training as well as perceived patient and physician barriers should be addressed to encourage uptake.
Is a .51 validity coefficient good? Value sensitivity for interview validity
Authors: Highhouse Scott , Brooks Margaret E. , Nesnidol Sami , Sim Stacy
Published: December 2017

Human‐resource professionals (n = 201) were presented with meta‐analytic validity coefficients associated with unstructured and structured employment interviews. When presented alone, the unstructured interview received a higher effectiveness rating—despite having a smaller validity coefficient—than the structured interview received (d = −.30). When presented together, however, the structured interview was strongly favored (d = .61). The inclusion of the endpoints of the range of operational validities for all selection methods made the presentation‐mode by interview‐structure interaction disappear.
Breaking the rules, not the law: The potential risks of counterproductive work behaviors among overqualified employees
Authors: Fine Saul , Edward Michal
Published: December 2017

The extent to which overqualified employees may engage in counterproductive work behaviors (CWB) remains unclear. This study investigated the relationships between objectively measured overqualification (OOQ), perceived overqualification (POQ), and combinations of four lower‐order facets of CWB. The results found OOQ to be associated with POQ, which was in‐turn associated with minor‐CWB and organizational‐oriented CWB, but not with serious‐ or interpersonal‐oriented CWB. This is one of the first studies to examine CWB as a consequence of OOQ, and one of the few studies to differentially predict serious versus minor CWBs.
CD70 encoded by modified vaccinia virus Ankara enhances CD8 T‐cell‐dependent protective immunity in MHC class II‐deficient mice
Authors: Bathke Barbara , Pätzold Juliane , Kassub Ronny , Giessel Raphael , Lämmermann Kerstin , Hinterberger Maria , Brinkmann Kay , Chaplin Paul , Suter Mark , Hochrein Hubertus , Lauterbach Henning
Published: December 2017

The immunological outcome of infections and vaccinations is largely determined during the initial first days in which antigen‐presenting cells instruct T cells to expand and differentiate into effector and memory cells. Besides the essential stimulation of the T‐cell receptor complex a plethora of co‐stimulatory signals not only ensures a proper T‐cell activation but also instils phenotypic and functional characteristics in the T cells appropriate to fight off the invading pathogen. The tumour necrosis factor receptor/ligand pair CD27/CD70 gained a lot of attention because of its key role in regulating T‐cell activation, survival, differentiation and maintenance, especially in the course of viral infections and cancer. We sought to investigate the role of CD70 co‐stimulation for immune responses induced by the vaccine vector modified vaccinia virus Ankara–Bavarian Nordic® (MVA‐BN®). Short‐term blockade of CD70 diminished systemic CD8 T‐cell effector and memory responses in mice. The dependence on CD70 became even more apparent in the lungs of MHC class II‐deficient mice. Importantly, genetically encoded CD70 in MVA‐BN® not only increased CD8 T‐cell responses in wild‐type mice but also substituted for CD4 T‐cell help. MHC class II‐deficient mice that were immunized with recombinant MVA‐CD70 were fully protected against a lethal virus infection, whereas MVA‐BN®‐immunized mice failed to control the virus. These data are in line with CD70 playing an important role for vaccine‐induced CD8 T‐cell responses and prove the potency of integrating co‐stimulatory molecules into the MVA‐BN® backbone.