bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The intelligent social change journey
Authors: Bennet Alex , Bennet David , Shelley Arthur , Bullard Theresa , Lewis John
Published: March 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to share key ideas forwarded in the five-book series focused on the Intelligent Social Change Journey (ISCJ) reflecting the latest research in the Consciousness Series supported by the Mountain Quest Institute and collaborators. This review is based on five separate books released as Part I (Laying the Groundwork), Part II (Learning from the Past), Part III (Learning in the Present), Part IV (Co-Creating the Future) and Part V (Living the Future) of The Profundity and Bifurcation of Change.

Design/methodology/approach

Reflecting the consilience approach taken by this in-depth research, the review of ideas provided in this paper tap into a deep array of research in knowledge and learning, with specific reference to recent neuroscience understanding that is emerging, and looks to psychology, physics, cell biology, systems and complexity, cognitive theory, social theory and spirituality for their contributions. The five books are heavily referenced (look to the larger work for these references) and, considering the individual as an intelligent complex adaptive learning system (Bennet et al., 2015b), entangle materials from science to philosophy, facts to psychology, management to poetry and words to pictures. This much shorter review can only partially represent this approach.

Findings

At this point in the history of humanity ? in the midst of a conscious expansion of our human capacity and understanding ? the rules are changing. As we move away from predictable patterns susceptible to logic, we are increasingly reliant on our ?gut? instinct, an internal sense of knowing that can tap into the intuitional plane. Yet, this knowing can only serve us if we ?know? what to do with it, how to act. Development of our mental faculties is essential to acting. We are on a developmental journey of the body, mind and heart, moving from the heaviness of cause-and-effect linear extrapolations, to the fluidity of co-evolving with our environment, to the lightness of breathing our thought and feelings into reality. Grounded in development of our mental faculties, these are phase changes, each building on and expanding previous learning in our movement toward intelligent activity.

Originality/value

This review lays the groundwork for the ISCJ, exploring consciousness through the lens of the cause-and-effect logic of Phase 1 (Learning from the Past), the co-evolving of Phase 2 (Learning in the Present) and the creative leap of Phase 3 (Co-Creating the Future). This research connects the expansion of consciousness to development of the human knowledge system.
Changing the game: a case for gamifying knowledge management
Authors: Shpakova Agnessa , Dörfler Viktor , MacBryde Jill
Published: March 2017

Purpose

This exploratory paper investigates gamification as a medium for knowledge workers to interact with each other. The purpose of this paper is to open the discussion around the sustaining impact that gamification might have on knowledge management (KM).

Design/methodology/approach

The paper employs an exploratory literature review investigating the current state of the art in relation to KM and gamification; this literature review serves as the starting point of subsequent theorizing.

Findings

Based on the literature review the authors theorize that the use of gamification in KM can go far beyond the motivational aspects. To name just a few uses of gamification, it can help in: supporting flexibility, facilitating transparency and therefore improving trust, visualizing skills and competences as well as generating requirements for new competences and promoting a collaborative environment among the knowledge workers.

Research limitations/implications

This paper opens the discussion around KM and gamification and suggests a wide range of areas for further research.

Practical implications

In this paper the authors argue that by looking at gamification as more than just a set of tools for improving motivation and engagement a company can address some pitfalls of a particular type of knowledge workers.

Originality/value

Gamification is a new, but increasingly popular approach, which has been shown to be powerful in many areas. This paper is novel in that it initiates a dialogue around the impact that gamification might have on KM.
How do the top 40 business schools in the UK understand, teach and implement KM in their teaching?
Authors: Ahmed Allam
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The emergence of “knowledge economies” brings along new lenses to organizational management and behaviour. One of the key concepts at the heart of this new wave is knowledge management (KM). The purpose of this paper is to scrutinize how KM is taught and discussed within the context of business schools around the UK.

Design/methodology/approach

The general research question is: how do top 40 business schools in the UK understand, teach and implement KM in their teaching? To answer this question, the author reviewed the curriculums of leading schools and contacted all schools to collect more information and data.

Findings

The study reveals that KM has yet to carve a self-standing place for itself within taught programmes in UK business schools.

Research limitations/implications

The study’s methodological design can explore the relevance of KM as a term, but it can only provide limited perspective into how this complex and multidimensional concept is operationalized in business schools’ curriculums. Moreover, the capacity of business schools to frame KM holistically is beyond the scope of this research.

Practical implications

Framing KM discourse within the relevant academic literature, this paper outlines that, while KM is being scrutinized as a research topic, interest in KM has yet to be translated into a widespread integration of KM as a taught skill within business schools.

Originality/value

The study is considered as one of the first attempts to investigate how KM is understood, taught and implemented in teaching and curriculum design within the UK business schools.
Serious game: Knoco’s Bird Island, making the point for KM
Authors: Barnes Stephanie , Milton Nick
Published: March 2017

Purpose

Knowledge management really does make a difference; it is not just an academic idea. There are lots of case studies and examples of knowledge management activities having a significant impact on the results of an organization, and some examples will be cited in the body of the paper. However, Knoco’s Bird Island serious game is one of the quickest, easiest, and most enjoyable ways to make the point. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper will review how Knoco’s Bird Island serious game is played. It will also discuss the results of over the almost 20 years that it has been played: what participants have experienced, what has been learned, and most importantly, the data that have been collected that help prove that sharing knowledge is a very powerful thing to do.

Findings

By using three different KM processes (after action reviews, peer assists, and best practice sharing) results of the activity go from abysmal to unbelievable, increasing by an average of 258 per cent, all because of reflecting, sharing, and learning. Even if participants want to continue to be sceptical of the results that making better use of their organization’s knowledge can have and they think they can only attain a fraction of this, 10 per cent of the demonstrated result is still almost 26 per cent. Isn’t that worth at least giving it a try?

Originality/value

Knoco has been running their serious game for almost two decades and have the data to prove it.
Percutaneous coronary intervention vs coronary artery bypass grafting for left main coronary artery disease? A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Sharma Sharan P. , Dahal Khagendra , Khatra Jaspreet , Rosenfeld Alan , Lee Juyong
Published: March 2017

Background

It is not clear whether percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is as effective and safe as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) for left main coronary artery disease. We aimed to perform a systematic review and meta‐analysis of all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared PCI and CABG in left main coronary disease.

Methods

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane, Scopus and relevant references for RCTs (inception through, November 20, 2016 without language restrictions) and performed meta‐analysis using random‐effects model. All‐cause mortality, myocardial infarction, revascularization rate, stroke, and major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) were the measured outcomes.

Results

Six RCTs with a total population of 4700 were analyzed. There was no difference in all‐cause mortality at 30‐day, one‐year, and five‐year (1.8% vs 1.1%; OR 0.60; 95% CI: 0.26‐1.39; P=.23; I2=9%) follow‐up between PCI and CABG. CABG group had less myocardial infarction (MI) at five‐year follow‐up than PCI (5% vs 2.5%; OR 2.04; CI: 1.30‐3.19; P=.002; I2=1%). Revascularization rate favored CABG in one‐year (8.6% vs 4.5%; OR 2; CI: 1.46‐2.73; P<.0001; I2=45%) and five‐year (15.9% vs 9.9%; OR 1.73; CI: 1.36‐2.20; P<.0001; I2=0%) follow‐up. Although stroke rate was lower in PCI group at 1 year, there was no difference in longer follow‐up. MACCE at 5 years favored CABG (24% vs 18%; OR 1.45; CI: 1.19‐1.76; P=.0001; I2=0%). On subgroup analysis, MACCE were not different between two groups in low‐to‐intermediate SYNTAX group while it was higher for PCI group with high SYNTAX group.

Conclusion

Percutaneous coronary intervention could be as safe and effective as CABG in a select group of left main coronary artery disease patients.
Influence of limiting and regulating factors on populations of Asian citrus psyllid and the risk of insect and disease outbreaks
Authors: Udell B.J. , Monzo C. , Paris T.M. , Allan S.A. , Stansly P.A.
Published: March 2017

Diaphorina citri, known as the Asian citrus psyllid (ACP), is the insect vector of a devastating citrus disease (huanglongbing; HLB), which has caused billions of dollars in damage in Florida since its detection in 2005. Data from long‐term monitoring programs in two Florida citrus groves were used to assess ACP demography and population ecology, which is needed to implement more effective management strategies for HLB. Seasonal patterns and correlations between ACP density estimates and a suite of environmental and community indicators, previously shown to influence ACP demography, were described and interpreted. Data were evaluated for evidence for spatial clustering and density‐dependent recruitment of ACP in a major outbreak event using Taylor power law analysis and by fitting a stochastic Beverton–Holt recruitment model using state‐space approach. Strong evidence for density‐dependent recruitment and spatial clustering was found and should be considered for future modelling work as it can greatly influence ACP populations by affecting their growth rates, dispersal behaviour and morphology, as well as HLB transmission. Observations of ACP density and dispersion in space and time, along with the estimated parameters from the Beverton–Holt model, suggested that intraspecific competition for resources may initiate both local, then widespread dispersal process, thus affecting grove‐wide and area‐wide HLB transmission. When these results were synthesised with those of parallel studies, the removal of several of these regulating factors in a single year could lead to widespread disease of the entire crop in a grove, and likely surrounding groves as well. We provide the first field evidence of the consequences of back‐to‐back ACP colonisation on the rapid spread of the HLB in a grove (a mechanism previously demonstrated in laboratory settings). We stress the importance of proper integrated pest management and area‐wide management to prevent such outbreaks.
E‐cigarette use of young adults motivations and associations with combustible cigarette alcohol, marijuana, and other illicit drugs
Authors: Temple Jeff R. , Shorey Ryan C. , Lu Yu , Torres Elizabeth , Stuart Gregory L. , Le Vi D.
Published: March 2017

Background and Objectives

Although the prevalence of e‐cigarette use among adolescents and young adults has caught up to or eclipsed that of combustible cigarette use, there is relatively little known about (a) the link between e‐cigarettes and other substances and (b) the reasons underlying this increase in e‐cigarette use. To address this gap in knowledge, the current study examined associations between e‐cigarette use and other substances and identified motives for e‐cigarette use among young adults.

Methods

Participants included an ethnically diverse sample of African American, White, and Hispanic young adults (N = 662; 61% female) who were participating in an ongoing survey‐based longitudinal study of health and risky behaviors.

Results

Hispanic, White, and male young adults reported significantly greater past year e‐cigarette use compared to their African American and female counterparts. Bivariate correlations showed that use of e‐cigarettes was positively associated with use of combustible cigarettes, alcohol, marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, inhalants, hallucinogens, ecstasy, and misuse of over‐the‐counter and prescription medications. Furthermore, e‐cigarette users reported a higher prevalence of substance use relative to those who did not use e‐cigarettes. The taste of e‐cigarettes was identified as an important motive for use.

Conclusions and Significance

Although the potential harm associated with e‐cigarettes remains largely unknown, e‐cigarettes appear to be a risk marker for the use of substances that are known to pose substantial health problems. Health care providers should screen for e‐cigarette use, and youth substance use prevention programs should target the reduction of e‐cigarette use with particular attention to addressing their taste appeal. (Am J Addict 2017;26:343–348)
Worldwide prevalence of tocophobia in pregnant women: systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: O'Connell Maeve A. , Leahy‐Warren Patricia , Khashan Ali S. , Kenny Louise C. , O'Neill Sinéad M.
Published: March 2017

Introduction

Tocophobia is defined as a severe fear of pregnancy and childbirth. There is increasing evidence that tocophobia may have short‐term and long‐term adverse effects on mother and baby. We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis to determine the global prevalence of tocophobia in pregnancy.

Material and methods

Relevant articles were identified through searching six relevant databases: MEDLINE, CINAHL, Pubmed, PsycINFO, Maternity & Infant Care and Scopus between 1946 and April 2016. We used search terms for tocophobia prevalence in pregnant women that we agreed on with a medical librarian. There were no language restrictions. Two review authors independently assessed data for inclusion, extracted data and assessed quality using a standardized appraisal tool. Meta‐analysis was performed to determine the overall pooled‐prevalence of tocophobia. Several subgroup and sensitivity analyses were conducted.

Results

Thirty‐three studies were included in the systematic review from 18 countries of which data from 29 studies were used in the meta‐analysis of 853 988 pregnant women. Definition of tocophobia varied, whereas prevalence rates ranged between 3.7 and 43%. The overall pooled prevalence of tocophobia, using a random‐effects model, was 14% (95% CI 0.12–0.16). Significant heterogeneity was observed (I2 = 99.25%, p = 0.00), which was not explained in subgroup analyses including tocophobia definition used, screening trimester and parity.

Conclusion

The prevalence of tocophobia is estimated at 14% and appears to have increased in recent years (2000 onwards). Considerable heterogeneity (99.25%) was noted that may be attributed to lack of consensus on the definition of tocophobia, so our results should be interpreted with caution.
A visual analogue scale and a Likert scale are simple and responsive tools for assessing dysphagia in eosinophilic oesophagitis
Authors: Reed C. C. , Wolf W. A. , Cotton C. C. , Dellon E. S.
Published: March 2017

Background

While symptom scores have been developed to evaluate dysphagia in eosinophilic oesophagitis (EoE), their complexity may limit clinical use.

Aim

To evaluate a visual analogue scale (VAS) and a 10‐point Likert scale (LS) for assessment of dysphagia severity before and after EoE treatment.

Methods

We conducted a prospective cohort study enrolling consecutive adults undergoing out‐patient endoscopy. Incident cases of EoE were diagnosed per consensus guidelines. At diagnosis and after 8 weeks of treatment, symptoms were measured using the VAS, LS and the Mayo Dysphagia Questionnaire (MDQ). The percentage change in scores before and after treatment were compared overall, in treatment responders (<15 eos/hpf) and non‐responders, and in patients without baseline dilation.

Results

In 51 EoE cases, the median VAS decreased from 3.6 at baseline to 1.4 post‐treatment (71% decrease), the LS decreased from 6 to 2 (67%) and the MDQ decreased from 20 to 10 (49%). The VAS correlated with both the LS (R = 0.77; P < 0.0001) and MDQ (R = 0.46, P = 0.001). After stratification by histological response, the LS decreased 70% in responders vs. 13% in non‐responders (P = 0.02). In patients who did not receive baseline dilation, both the VAS and LS decreased significantly more in the histological responders.

Conclusions

Both the VAS and LS were responsive to successful treatment as measured by histologic improvement. Because the VAS and LS are simple to administer and are responsive to treatment, they can provide an efficient and objective method for assessing dysphagia severity in EoE in clinical practice.
Two potential players in the evolutionary theatre: Do caddisflies mimic gastropods?
Authors: Wiggering Benedikt , Glaubrecht Matthias
Published: March 2017

Mimicry is one of the best examples of coevolution. For a mimetic system to function, the mimic has to equal its model. Due to this close dependence, mimetic systems promise deep insights into modes and means of evolution. Mimicry is known to occur in many taxa across different groups of organisms. However, while a plethora of mimetic systems exist, cross‐phyla convergences have only rarely been reported in shelled gastropods. Our literature survey brought to light several mimetic systems including gastropods (as model or mimic), all of them in either a marine or a terrestrial setting. We here report on the first potential case of mimicry involving freshwater snails. We found larval cases of European Helicopsyche caddisfly to closely resemble Valvata gastropod shells in shape and size. In particular, stunning is the detailed similarity of features in these trichopteran cases to those characteristic for snail shells, for example, apex, aperture and umbilicus, hinting at a strong selection pressure to be involved. We discuss this unique case of mimicry that might hold unparalleled insight in mimetic relationships, taking into account alternative environmental factors and potential predatory dupes, in particular birds that might have successively caused the evolution of coiled cases in helicopsychid trichopterans.
A Model for Paired-Multinomial Data and Its Application to Analysis of Data on a Taxonomic Tree
Authors: Shi Pixu , Li Hongzhe
Published: March 2017

In human microbiome studies, sequencing reads data are often summarized as counts of bacterial taxa at various taxonomic levels specified by a taxonomic tree. This article considers the problem of analyzing two repeated measurements of microbiome data from the same subjects. Such data are often collected to assess the change of microbial composition after certain treatment, or the difference in microbial compositions across body sites. Existing models for such count data are limited in modeling the covariance structure of the counts and in handling paired multinomial count data. A new probability distribution is proposed for paired-multinomial count data, which allows flexible covariance structure and can be used to model repeatedly measured multivariate count data. Based on this distribution, a test statistic is developed for testing the difference in compositions based on paired multinomial count data. The proposed test can be applied to the count data observed on a taxonomic tree in order to test difference in microbiome compositions and to identify the subtrees with different subcompositions. Simulation results indicate that proposed test has correct type 1 errors and increased power compared to some commonly used methods. An analysis of an upper respiratory tract microbiome data set is used to illustrate the proposed methods.
The gap junction modifier ZP1609 decreases cardiomyocyte hypercontracture following ischaemia/reperfusion independent from mitochondrial connexin 43
Authors: Boengler Kerstin , Bulic Marko , Schreckenberg Rolf , Schlüter Klaus‐Dieter , Schulz Rainer
Published: March 2017

Background and Purpose

Dysregulation of gap junction‐mediated cell coupling contributes to development of arrhythmias and myocardial damage after ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R). Connexin 43 (Cx43) is present at ventricular gap junctions and also in the mitochondria of cardiomyocytes. The dipeptide (2S, 4R)‐1‐(2‐aminoacetyl)‐4‐benzamidopyrrolidine‐2‐carboxylic acid (ZP1609) has antiarrhythmic properties and reduces infarct size when given at reperfusion. However, it is unclear, whether ZP1609 targets Cx43‐containing mitochondria and affects cardiomyocyte hypercontracture following I/R.

Experimental Approach

We studied the effects of ZP1609 on the function of murine sub‐sarcolemmal mitochondria (SSM, containing Cx43) and interfibrillar mitochondria (IFM, lacking Cx43). Murine isolated cardiomyocytes were subjected to simulated I/R without and with ZP1609 (applied during I/R or at the onset of reperfusion only), and the number of cardiomyocytes undergoing hypercontracture was quantified. Biochemical pathways targeted by ZP1609 in cardiomyocytes were analysed.

Key Results

ZP1609 inhibited ADP‐stimulated respiration and ATP production in SSM and IFM. ROS formation and calcium retention capacities in SSM and IFM were not affected by ZP1609, whereas potassium uptake was enhanced in IFM. The number of rod‐shaped cardiomyocytes was increased by ZP1609 (10 μM) when administered either during I/R or reperfusion. ZP1609 altered the phosphorylation of proteins contributing to the protection against I/R injury.

Conclusions and Implications

ZP1609 reduced mitochondrial respiration and ATP production, but enhanced potassium uptake of IFM. Additionally, ZP1609 reduced the extent of cardiomyocytes undergoing hypercontracture following I/R. The protective effect was independent of mitochondrial Cx43, as ZP1609 exerts its effects in Cx43‐containing SSM and Cx43‐lacking IFM.
Medicinal applications of (benz)imidazole‐ and indole‐based macrocycles
Authors: Patil Siddappa A. , Patil Shivaputra A. , Patil Renukadevi
Published: March 2017

Macrocyclic chemistry is one of the emerging research areas in the chemical science. Macrocyclic compounds continue to attract significant attention due to their numerous possible applications particularly in the areas like biology, catalysis and industry. This review article summarizes the developments and advances in synthesis and medicinal applications of macrocyclic compounds derived from (benz)imidazole‐ and indole‐based heterocycles. Important medicinal applications of (benz)imidazole‐ and indole‐based macrocycles include antimicrobial and anticancer activities. The representative lead compounds in each series of macromolecules have been discussed. All these initial lead breakthroughs help validate the great potential of (benz)imidazole‐ and indole‐based macrocyclic compounds as a class of effective medicinal agents.
Parents' early healthcare transition experiences with preterm and acutely ill infants: a scoping review
Authors: Ballantyne M. , Orava T. , Bernardo S. , McPherson A. C. , Church P. , Fehlings D.
Published: March 2017

Background

Parents undergo multiple transitions following the birth of an ill infant: their infant's illness‐health trajectory, neonatal intensive care unit hospitalization and transfers from one healthcare setting to another, while also transitioning to parenthood. The objective of this review was to map and synthesize evidence on the experiences and needs of parents of preterm or ill infants as they transition within and between healthcare settings following birth.

Methods

The scoping review followed Arskey and O′Malley's () framework, enhanced by Levac et al. (). Relevant studies were identified through a comprehensive search strategy of scientific and grey literature databases, online networks, Web of Science and citation lists of relevant articles. Inclusion criteria encompassed a focus on infants undergoing a healthcare transition, and the experiences and needs of parents during transition. Studies were appraised for design quality, and data relevant to parent experiences were extracted and underwent thematic analysis.

Results

A total of 7773 records were retrieved, 90 full texts reviewed and 11 articles synthesized that represented a total sample of 435 parents of preterm or ill infants. Parents reported on their experiences in response to their infant's transition within and between hospitals and across levels of neonatal intensive care unit, intermediate and community hospital care. Ten studies used qualitative research methods, while one employed quantitative survey methods. Four key themes were identified: that of parent distress throughout transition, parenting at a distance, sources of stress and sources of support. Parents' stress resulted from not being informed or involved in the transition decision, inadequate communication and perceived differences in cultures of care across healthcare settings.

Conclusions

Opportunities to improve parents' early transition experiences include enhanced engagement, communication, information‐sharing and shared decision‐making between health care providers and parents. Future areas of research should focus on early transition interventions to advance parent capacity, confidence and closeness as the primary nurturer.
A condition metric for Eucalyptus woodland derived from expert evaluations
Authors: Sinclair Steve J. , Bruce Matthew J. , Griffioen Peter , Dodd Amanda , White Matthew D.
Published: March 2017

The evaluation of ecosystem quality is important for land‐management and land‐use planning. Evaluation is unavoidably subjective, and robust metrics must be based on consensus and the structured use of observations. We devised a transparent and repeatable process for building and testing ecosystem metrics based on expert data. We gathered quantitative evaluation data on the quality of hypothetical grassy woodland sites from experts. We used these data to train a model (an ensemble of 30 bagged regression trees) capable of predicting the perceived quality of similar hypothetical woodlands based on a set of 13 site variables as inputs (e.g., cover of shrubs, richness of native forbs). These variables can be measured at any site and the model implemented in a spreadsheet as a metric of woodland quality. We also investigated the number of experts required to produce an opinion data set sufficient for the construction of a metric. The model produced evaluations similar to those provided by experts, as shown by assessing the model's quality scores of expert‐evaluated test sites not used to train the model. We applied the metric to 13 woodland conservation reserves and asked managers of these sites to independently evaluate their quality. To assess metric performance, we compared the model's evaluation of site quality with the managers’ evaluations through multidimensional scaling. The metric performed relatively well, plotting close to the center of the space defined by the evaluators. Given the method provides data‐driven consensus and repeatability, which no single human evaluator can provide, we suggest it is a valuable tool for evaluating ecosystem quality in real‐world contexts. We believe our approach is applicable to any ecosystem.
Host species and vegetable fruit suitability and preference by the parasitoid wasp Fopius arisanus
Authors: Ayelo Pascal M. , Sinzogan Antonio A. , Bokonon‐Ganta Aimé H. , Karlsson Miriam F.
Published: March 2017

Parasitoids that oviposit in a concealed host inside a plant part need to be able to find both the plant and the host. Egg parasitoids of fruit‐infesting Tephritidae need to assess the oviposition site based both on the host egg and the infested fruit. Infestation by Tephritidae fruit flies threatens fruit and vegetable production. Management methods have been implemented including biological control, using Fopius arisanus Sonan (Hymenoptera: Braconidae). The parasitism by F. arisanus in three Tephritidae flies in vegetable fruits was investigated. Laboratory assays were conducted to assess the parasitoid's preference and survival. Zucchini, sweet pepper, and tomato were artificially infested with eggs of Bactrocera dorsalis Hendel, Ceratitis capitata Wiedemann, and Ceratitis cosyra Walker (all Diptera: Tephritidae), then exposed to mated naïve F. arisanus females in a 20:1 egg:parasitoid ratio. Parasitoid behavioral activities (resting, antennating, probing, ovipositing) were observed on the infested fruits. Parasitism rate was determined by dissection of fruit fly eggs under a stereomicroscope. Behavioral activities of F. arisanus differed between all the fruits when infested with B. dorsalis or C. cosyra eggs but differed only between some of the fruits when infested with C. capitata. Fopius arisanus preferred B. dorsalis over C. capitata and C. cosyra, with a parasitism rate 2× higher on B. dorsalis compared to the Ceratitis species. Preference for fruits was dependent on the infesting fruit fly. The emergence of F. arisanus was higher with B. dorsalis than with Ceratitis spp. Although B. dorsalis completed its development earlier than Ceratitis spp., host fly species did not affect the developmental time of F. arisanus. We discuss the significance of F. arisanus preference in relation to naturally occurring Tephritidae infestations. We also discuss whether some fruits might constitute a refuge for Tephritidae flies and whether this will affect the current biological control efforts against B. dorsalis.
Fifteen years of research on PISA effects on education governance: A critical review
Authors: Pons Xavier
Published: March 2017

This article provides a literature review on the effects of the OECD's Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) on education governance and policy process across participating countries. This review seemed necessary because there has been a growing body of literature on this topic since 2003, especially since 2010, because this literature is not always well‐known and because the discourse on the so‐called ‘PISA shock’ remains important, even if it is more of a metaphor than a concept and may be politically partial.

The article exploits a dataset of 87 references which show that PISA introduced major changes in the governance of education worldwide. Driven by soft power strategies and new policy transfers, this governance is based on data and measurement tools which redefine the scales of education policies. It also shows that PISA has a strong influence on a variety of national reforms, as illustrated in many case studies. However, this influence strongly depends on domestic policy contexts that scholars intended to capture through different theoretical frameworks. Nonetheless, few propose overarching theorisations of the political meaning of PISA effects on education governance and policy processes. The article concludes by stressing three main challenges for the subsequent studies on these PISA effects: better conceptualising these effects, preserving an epistemology of uncertainty in order to avoid taken for granted views and normalising the research on PISA effects not to perpetually and artificially rediscover its so‐called novelty.
An acute bout of exercise modulates both intracortical and interhemispheric excitability
Authors: Neva J. L. , Brown K. E. , Mang C. S. , Francisco B. A. , Boyd L. A.
Published: March 2017

Primary motor cortex (M1) excitability is modulated following a single session of cycling exercise. Specifically, short‐interval intracortical inhibition and intracortical facilitation are altered following a session of cycling, suggesting that exercise affects the excitability of varied cortical circuits. Yet we do not know whether a session of exercise also impacts the excitability of interhemispheric circuits between, and other intracortical circuits within, M1. Here we present two experiments designed to address this gap in knowledge. In experiment 1, single and paired pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) were used to measure intracortical circuits including, short‐interval intracortical facilitation (SICF) tested at 1.1, 1.5, 2.7, 3.1 and 4.5 ms interstimulus intervals (ISIs), contralateral silent period (CSP) and interhemispheric interactions by measuring transcallosal inhibition (TCI) recorded from the abductor pollicus brevis muscles. All circuits were assessed bilaterally pre and two time points post (immediately, 30 min) moderate intensity lower limb cycling. SICF was enhanced in the left hemisphere after exercise at the 1.5 ms ISI. Also, CSP was shortened and TCI decreased bilaterally after exercise. In Experiment 2, corticospinal and spinal excitability were tested before and after exercise to investigate the locus of the effects found in Experiment 1. Exercise did not impact motor‐evoked potential recruitment curves, Hoffman reflex or V‐wave amplitudes. These results suggest that a session of exercise decreases intracortical and interhemispheric inhibition and increases facilitation in multiple circuits within M1, without concurrently altering spinal excitability. These findings have implications for developing exercise strategies designed to potentiate M1 plasticity and skill learning in healthy and clinical populations.
Herpes simplex virus 1 and cytomegalovirus are associated with pemphigus vulgaris but not with pemphigus foliaceus disease
Authors: Machado Aline Rafaela da Silva Rodrigues , La Serra Leonardo , Turatti Aline , Machado Alex Martins , Roselino Ana Maria
Published: March 2017

Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) and pemphigus foliaceus (PF) are blistering autoimmune diseases that depend on interaction between genetic and environmental factors. Viral infections, like herpes simplex viruses 1 and 2 (HSV1/2), cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein‐Barr virus and dengue virus, could trigger or exacerbate pemphigus. IgM and IgG antibodies against these viruses in serum from PV and PF, their relatives and controls were determined. HSV1/2 expression was evaluated by direct immunofluorescence (DIF) and qPCR in affected or not oral mucosa from PV patients compared with uninjured PF mucosa. IgG anti‐HSV1 was higher in the PV group compared with all groups. IgG anti‐CMV resulted higher in PV group compared with PF patients and PV relatives. HSV1 was confirmed by DIF and qPCR on oral samples from patients with PV. Lack of HSV1 expression in the oral mucosa of patients with PF corroborate that immunosuppressive therapy cannot be the main cause for HSV1 replication in PV disease.
Probing skin physiology through the volatile footprint: Discriminating volatile emissions before and after acute barrier disruption
Authors: Duffy Emer , Jacobs Matthew R. , Kirby Brian , Morrin Aoife
Published: March 2017

Volatile organic compounds emitted by human skin were sampled before and after acute barrier disruption of the volar forearm to investigate the significance of this approach to skin physiology research. A small wearable housing integrating a solid‐phase micro‐extraction fibre permitting rapid enclosed headspace sampling of human skin volatiles is presented, enabling non‐invasive sample collection in 15 minutes, in a comfortable wearable format. Gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry was utilised to separate and identify the volatile metabolites. A total of 37 compounds were identified, with aldehydes (hexanal, nonanal, decanal), acids (nonanoic, decanoic, dodecanoic, tetradecanoic and pentadecanoic acids) and hydrocarbons (squalane, squalene) predominant within the chemical profile. Acute barrier disruption was achieved through tape stripping (TS) of the stratum corneum to determine the impact on the volatile signature. Principle component analysis demonstrated there to be a discriminating volatile signature before and after TS. The dysregulation of significant features was examined. Several compounds derived from sebaceous components and their oxidation products were altered following barrier disruption, including squalane, squalene, octanal and nonanal. The upregulation of glycine was also observed, which may indicate a perturbation to the skin's natural moisturising factor production. TS impacted the hydro‐lipid film that functions within the skin barrier, resulting in a differing volatile signature from affected skin. This provides a valuable non‐invasive approach for scientific and clinical studies in dermatology, particularly around dermatological disorders associated with compromised barrier function.
The gene expression and immunohistochemical time‐course of diphenylcyclopropenone‐induced contact allergy in healthy humans following repeated epicutaneous challenges
Authors: Mose Kristian F. , Burton Mark , Thomassen Mads , Andersen Flemming , Kruse Torben A. , Tan Qihua , Skov Lone , Røpke Mads A. , Litman Thomas , Clemmensen Ole , Kristensen Bjarne W. , Friedmann Peter S. , Andersen Klaus E.
Published: March 2017

The gene expression time‐course of repeated challenge of contact allergy (CA) remains largely unknown. Therefore, using diphenylcyclopropenone (DPCP) as model allergen in healthy humans we set out to examine: (i) the monotonous and complex gene expression time‐course trajectories following repeated DPCP challenges to find the predominant gene expression pattern, (ii) the time‐course of cell infiltration following repeated DPCP challenges and (iii) the transcriptome of a repeated CA exposure model. We obtained punch biopsies from control and DPCP‐exposed skin from ten DPCP sensitized individuals at 5‐6 monthly elicitation challenges. Biopsies were used for microarray gene expression profiling, histopathology and immunohistochemical staining. Validation of microarray data by qRT‐PCR was performed on 15 selected genes. Early gene expression time points were also validated in an independent data set. An increasing and decreasing trend in gene expression followed by a plateau was predominantly observed during repeated DPCP challenges. Immune responses reached a plateau after two challenges histopathologically, immunohistochemically and in the time‐course gene expression analysis. Transcriptional responses over time revealed a Th1/Th17 polarization as three upstream regulators (IFN‐γ, IL‐1 and IL‐17) activated most of the top upregulated genes. Of the latter genes, 9 of 10 were the same throughout the time course. Excellent correlations between array and PCR data were observed. The transcriptional responses to DPCP over time followed a monotonous pattern. This response pattern confirms and supports the newly reported clinical time‐course observations in de novo‐sensitized individuals showing a plateau response, and thus, there is concordance between clinical response, histopathology, immunohistochemistry and microarray gene expression in volunteers de novo‐sensitized to DPCP.
The biology and genetics of curly hair
Authors: Westgate Gillian E. , Ginger Rebecca S. , Green Martin R.
Published: March 2017

Hair fibres show wide diversity across and within all human populations, suggesting that hair fibre form and colour have been subject to much adaptive pressure over thousands of years. All human hair fibres typically have the same basic structure. However, the three‐dimensional shape of the entire fibre varies considerably depending on ethnicity and geography, with examples from very straight hair with no rotational turn about the long axis, to the tightly sprung coils of African races. The creation of the highly complex biomaterials in hair follicle and how these confer mechanical functions on the fibre so formed is a topic that remains relatively unexplained thus far. We review the current understanding on how hair fibres are formed into a nonlinear coiled form and which genetic and biological factors are thought to be responsible for hair shape. We report on a new GWAS comparing low and high curl individuals in South Africa, revealing strong links to polymorphic variation in trichohyalin, a copper transporter protein CUTC and the inner root sheath component keratin 74. This builds onto the growing knowledge base describing the control of curly hair formation.
Analysis of apoptosis‐associated molecules Erythroid differentiation regulator 1, bcl‐2 and p53 in actinic keratosis after treatment with ingenol mebutate
Authors: Woo Yu Ri , Lim Ji Hong , Jeong Seo‐won , Cho Dae Ho , Park Hyun Jeong
Published: March 2017

Actinic keratosis (AK) is the most common cutaneous premalignant neoplasm precursor of malignant skin tumors. The aberrant apoptotic pathway is thought to be associated with pathogenesis of AK. Ingenol mebutate has been shown to be effective and safe for treatment of AK. However, the effect of ingenol mebutate on apoptosis‐related molecules using human skin samples has not been studied well. Erythroid differentiation regulator 1 (Erdr1) was recently reported to play a crucial role in malignant skin cancers like malignant melanoma. The role of Erdr1 in premalignant actinic keratosis (AK) has not been explored. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the expression of apoptosis‐associated molecules such as Erdr1, p53 and bcl‐2 was affected by the treatment of ingenol mebutate in AK. Nine patients with AK underwent skin biopsy at baseline and 8 weeks after treatment with ingenol mebutate for immunohistochemical evaluation with Erdr1, p53 and bcl‐2. In addition, skin samples from five control subjects were retrieved. Upregulation of Erdr1 and a significant decrease in expression of p53 and bcl‐2 were observed after treatment with ingenol mebutate. Ingenol mebutate treatment for AK resulted in the modulation of apoptosis‐associated molecules with an increase in the expression of Erdr1 and a decrease in the expression of p53 and bcl‐2.
Experiences of going to court: Witnesses with intellectual disabilities and their carers speak up
Authors: Beckene Tessy , Forrester‐Jones Rachel , Murphy Glynis H.
Published: March 2017

Background

People with intellectual disabilities are more vulnerable to sexual abuse and are more disadvantaged in the criminal justice system than the general population. However, little is known about the experiences of people with intellectual disabilities who have allegedly been victims of sexual abuse and also been witnesses in court.

Materials and Methods

This study used semi‐structured interviews and a Grounded Theory approach to examine the experiences of four people with intellectual disabilities and four carers/supporters who had all attended trials.

Results

Findings showed that after the traumatic incident of abuse, a court experience could become a secondary source of trauma. Experience of this trauma was dependent on the quality and quantity of support people received and the understanding of intellectual disabilities amongst the legal participants.

Conclusion

The findings argue for better training for legal participants who are in contact with vulnerable witnesses and better support structures for alleged victims.
miR‐200b‐containing microvesicles attenuate experimental colitis associated intestinal fibrosis by inhibiting epithelial‐mesenchymal transition
Authors: Yang Jia , Zhou Cheng‐Zhi , Zhu Rui , Fan Heng , Liu Xing‐Xing , Duan Xue‐Yun , Tang Qing , Shou Zhe‐Xing , Zuo Dong‐Mei
Published: March 2017

Background and Aim

Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), characterized by the decrease of E‐cadherin (E‐Cad) and increase in vimentin and alpha‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA), was demonstrated to participate in inflammatory bowel disease‐related fibrosis. miR‐200b plays an anti‐fibrosis role in inhibiting EMT by targeting ZEB1 and ZEB2. But the stability of exogenous miR‐200b in blood limits its application. Microvesicles (MVs), which can transfer miRNAs among cells and prevent them from degradation, may provide an excellent transport system for the delivery of miR‐200b in the treatment of fibrosis.

Methods

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) were transfected with lentivirus to overexpress miR‐200b. The MVs packaged with miRNA‐200b were harvested for the anti‐fibrotic treatment using in vitro (transforming growth factor beta 1‐mediated EMT in intestinal epithelial cells: IEC‐6) and in vivo (TNBS‐induced intestinal fibrosis in rats) models. The pathological morphology was observed, and the fibrosis related proteins, such as E‐Cad, vimentin, α‐SMA, ZEB1, and ZEB2, were detected.

Results

MiR‐200b‐MVs would significantly reverse the morphology in TGF‐β1‐treated IEC‐6 cells and improve the TNBS‐induced colon fibrosis histologically. The treatment of miR‐200b‐MVs increased miR‐200b levels both in the IEC‐6 cells and colon, resulting in a significant prevention EMT and alleviation of fibrosis. The expression of E‐Cad was increased, and the expressions of vimentin and α‐SMA were decreased. ZBE1 and ZEB2, the targets of miR‐200b, were also decreased.

Conclusions

miR‐200b could be transferred from genetically modified BMSCs to the target cells or tissue by MVs. The mechanisms of miR‐200b‐MVs in inhibiting colonic fibrosis were related to suppressing the development of EMT by targeting ZEB1and ZEB2.
Risks of colorectal advanced neoplasia in young adults versus those of screening colonoscopy in patients aged 50 to 54 years
Authors: Kim Kyeong Ok , Yang Hyo‐Joon , Cha Jae Myung , Shin Jeong Eun , Kim Hyun Gun , Cho Young‐Seok , Boo Sun‐Jin , Lee Jun , Jung Yunho , Lee Hyun Jung , Huh Kyu Chan , Joo Young‐Eun , Park Jongha , Moon Chang Mo
Published: March 2017

Background and Aim

The role of screening or diagnostic colonoscopy to detect advanced neoplasia in young cohorts of age < 50 is unclear. This study compared the risk of colorectal neoplasia in a young age cohort against that in 50–54s screening cohort.

Methods

A multi‐center retrospective study was conducted at 14 university hospitals to compare the detection rates of neoplasia and advanced neoplasia in screening or diagnostic colonoscopy in the young cohort of < 50s against those in screening colonoscopy in the 50–54s cohort.

Results

Among 10 477 eligible subjects, 9765 subjects were enrolled after excluding 712 subjects. Advanced neoplasia detection rates in the young screening cohort was significantly lower than that in the 50–54s screening cohort (5.9% vs 9.3%, P < 0.001). Compared with 50–54s screening cohort, the risk of advanced neoplasia was significantly reduced by 23%, 53%, and 54% in the 45–49s, 40–44s, and 20–39s screening cohorts, respectively. The detection rates of advanced neoplasia in the young diagnostic cohort was 5.0%, which was much lower than 11.8% in 50–54s screening cohort (P < 0.001). Compared with the 50–54s screening cohort, the risk of advanced neoplasia was significantly reduced by 50%, 66%, and 71% in the 45–49s, 40–44s, and 20–39s diagnostic cohorts, respectively.

Conclusions

Colonoscopy to detect advanced neoplasia in young adults aged < 50 years should be reconsidered as their risk of advanced neoplasia on screening or diagnostic colonoscopy was much lower than those of 50–54s screening cohort; however, colonoscopy screening may be justified for high‐risk 45–49s cohorts.