bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An empirical study on the returns to scale of supply structure in China’s economic growth: 1993–2015
Authors: Ren Baoping , Jie Wei
Published: December 2019

Purpose

Constant or decreasing returns and increasing returns to scale are two kinds of mechanism in economic growth. The goal of supply-side structural reform is to promote the establishment of the mechanism with increasing returns to scale. The paper aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper argues that the overall economic structure of the developing economy has been divided into the sector of constant or decreasing returns to scale and the sector of increasing returns to scale due to the dual economic structure. Among them, the supply-side structural reform is mainly to reduce the sector of decreasing returns to scale and increase the sector of increasing returns to scale. Based on the hypothesis of such two-sector economic structure in the supply side of developing economies and on the industrial data, this paper empirically tests the returns to scale of China’s supply structure. The result suggests that so far the sector of constant or decreasing returns to scale dominates the supply structure of China’s economic growth, which results in the state of decreasing returns to scale in China’s overall economy.

Findings

Therefore, to realize the long-term sustained growth and transformation of the development pattern of China’s economy, the authors must carry out the supply-side structural reform, vigorously develop the modern industrial sectors characterized by modern knowledge and technology, and promote the development of an innovation-driven economy.

Originality/value

Besides, the authors must accelerate the transformation from traditional industrial sectors to modern industrial sectors, actively promote China’s industrial structure toward rationalization and high gradation, as well as build a modern industrial system so as to facilitate the formation of the mechanism of increasing returns to scale and accelerate the transformation of the driving force of China’s economic growth.
Supply-side structural reform from the perspective of political economy
Authors: Fang Min
Published: December 2019

Purpose

Deepening supply-side structural reform is the main objective of the economic work since the Chinese economy entered a new stage of development. By adopting the fundamental principles and methodologies of Marxist political economy, the authors can provide clarifications on the three basic theoretical issues concerning the supply-side structural reform. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the essential starting point for understanding the supply-side structural reform is the primacy of production, as well as the organic connection between production and consumption in social reproduction, rather than the supply and demand as superficially seen in exchanges. By identifying the right starting point, the authors can avoid alternating between demand and supply management, and between liberalism and interventionism.

Findings

Structural problems, which are closely related to the institutional structure of production and the purpose and nature of production, cannot be solely attributed to the imbalance caused by market failures. Chinese economy has suffered prolonged structural contradictions and structural problems.

Originality/value

To decide whether the financial and the real estate sectors are real economy or virtual economy, the key is to examine whether the monetary capital used in financial activities and real estate commodity (capital) go through the capital circulation process of from monetary capital to productive capital and further to commodity capital, and whether the capital gain is generated by the value appreciation of capital or the value transfer and distribution as a result of the transfer of ownership. With its emphasis on developing the real economy, the supply-side structural reform should foster both development of manufacturing, and parts of financial and real estate sectors that are the real economy.
Logical system of development economics of large countries
Authors: Ouyang Yao
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The development economics of large countries is a subject that studies how large developing countries evolve into developed countries through industrialization and structural transformation. By looking into the economic development of large developing countries in a systematic way, the purpose of this paper is to propose a logical system consisting of research objects, main issues, key principles and development strategies.

Design/methodology/approach

A large developing country refers to a country with a dual economic structure; it has a large population, vast territory and great market potential, but is low in labour productivity and per capita income.

Findings

The key issue of the large country’s economy is the issue of the size, while the key issue of the developing country’s economy is the issue of the economic structure. Therefore, the key issue of the economy of large developing courtiers lies in both the size and economic structure.

Originality/value

The endogenous capacity of a large country depends on the size of factors and the balance of supply and demand, while the comprehensive advantage of a large country depends on its diversified industrial structure and integration of factors. Based on the basic characteristics and key economic principles, large developing countries should seek endogenous, stable, coordinated and innovative development.
Mental health consumer involvement in occupational therapy education in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Scanlan Justin Newton , Logan Alexandra , Arblaster Karen , Haracz Kirsti , Fossey Ellie , Milbourn Benjamin Tyler , Pépin Geneviève , Machingura Tawanda , Webster Jayne S. ,   The ANZOTMHA Network
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Recovery‐oriented practice policies and occupational therapy education accreditation standards require that consumers are engaged in the design, delivery and evaluation of curricula. This consumer involvement (sometimes referred to as service‐user involvement or patient involvement in other contexts) should go beyond consumers simply ‘telling their stories’ to more meaningful collaboration in curricula. This study was designed to map the current patterns of consumer involvement in occupational therapy programs across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand.

Method

A survey was distributed to all occupational therapy programs across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand. The survey included questions related to: (a) perceived enablers and barriers to consumer involvement in education; (b) organisational structures and support; (c) ways in which consumer are involved in the design, delivery and evaluation of curricula; (d) access to remuneration for consumers; (e) overall ratings of the level of consumer involvement in curricula; and (f) academic confidence in working with consumers.

Results

Usable responses were received for 23 programs from 19 universities (83% response rate). Every program reported some consumer involvement in the curriculum. Consumer participation tended to be mainly focussed on curriculum delivery with less frequent involvement in curriculum design or evaluation. The most common barrier to consumer involvement in curricula was ‘funding/remuneration for consumers’ and the most common enabler of consumer involvement was ‘positive attitudes of teaching staff’.

Conclusion

In comparison to previous reports, consumer involvement in occupational therapy curricula has increased over the past decade. However, ongoing effort is required to support true collaboration in all aspects of curriculum design, delivery and evaluation. While this will require attention and effort from academic teams, changes at a university level to establish systems to engage and effectively remunerate consumers for their involvement (especially in design and evaluation elements) are also required.
Gender norms and social norms: differences, similarities and why they matter in prevention science
Authors: Cislaghi Beniamino , Heise Lori
Published: December 2019

Two streams of theory and practice on gender equity have begun to elide. The first is work conducted to change social norms, particularly using theory that emerged from studies in social psychology. The second is work done on gender norms, emerging historically from feminist scholars working to counter gender inequality. As these two streams of work intersect, conceptual clarity is needed to understand differences and similarities between these two traditions. Increased clarity will improve efforts to address harmful norms and practices. In this article, we review similarities and differences between social and gender norms, reviewing the history of the concepts and identifying key tension points of contrast. We identified six areas of comparison that might be helpful for practitioners working for the promotion of global health as they make sense of social and gender norms. We then offer a definition of gender norms for practitioners and researchers working at the intersection between these two theories. Our definition draws from the two different streams of thought of how norms influence people's actions, acknowledging the double nature of gender norms: beliefs nested in people's minds and embedded in institutions that profoundly affect health‐related behaviours and shape differential access to health services.
Impact of Acerola (Malpighia emarginata DC) Byproduct and Probiotic Strains on Technological and Sensory Features of Fermented Soy Beverages
Authors: Vieira Antonio Diogo Silva , Biscola Vanessa , de Albuquerque Marcela Albuquerque Cavalcanti , Bedani Raquel , Saad Susana Marta Isay
Published: December 2019

Ten probiotic cultures were screened for the ability to hydrolyze soy proteins and bile salt deconjugation (BSD) to select one lactobacilli and one bifidobacteria strain to produce fermented soy beverages (FSBs) containing acerola byproduct (ABP). Next, the effect of the strains and the ABP on the technological and sensory characteristics of these beverages was evaluated during refrigerated storage for up to 28 days. None of the tested strains presented any proteolytic activity against soy proteins. Among the probiotic strains, the best BSD activities were observed for Lactobacillus acidophilus LA‐5 and Bifidobacterium longum BB‐46, which were further employed, individually or combined, to produce FSB supplemented or not with ABP, using Streptococcus thermophilus TH‐4 as a starter, and the effect of these strains and ABP on the technological and sensory acceptability of FSB was evaluated. The probiotic strains did not influence FBS texture parameters, but ABP increased firmness in the ready product. BB‐46 increased acidity, therefore decreasing acceptance, whereas the presence of LA‐5 and/or ABP increased acceptance, even though the appearance was negatively affected by ABP after 21 days of storage. Thus, the presence of LA‐5 and ABP contributed for the sensory acceptance of the FSBs without affecting their technological features.

Practical Application

Lactobacillus acidophilus LA‐5, Bifidobacterium longum BB‐46, and/or acerola byproduct (ABP) were applied in the production of fermented soy beverages (FSBs). Principal components analysis was used to evaluate the formulations of the 23 factorial design and the sensory attributes and the effect of storage independently and covariance was the matrix type used for mapping purposes. LA‐5 and ABP contributed for the sensory acceptance of FSB, without affecting their technological features, and could be used by food processing companies after scaling up, also reducing the environmental impact by decreasing discarding byproducts, which are sources of bioactive compounds.
Patient and anesthesia characteristics of children with low pre‐incision blood pressure: A retrospective observational study
Authors: Pasma Wietze , Peelen Linda M. , van den Broek Stefanie , van Buuren Stef , van Klei Wilton A. , de Graaff Jurgen C.
Published: December 2019

Background

Intraoperative blood pressure has been suggested as a key factor for safe pediatric anesthesia. However, there is not much insight into factors that discriminate between children with low and normal pre‐incision blood pressure. Our aim was to explore whether children who have a low blood pressure during anesthesia are different than those with normal blood pressure. The focus of the present study was on the pre‐incision period.

Methods

This retrospective study included pediatric patients undergoing anesthesia for non‐cardiac surgery at a tertiary pediatric university hospital, between 2012 and 2016. We analyzed the association between pre‐incision blood pressure and patient‐ and anesthesia characteristics, comparing low with normal pre‐incision blood pressure. This association was further explored with a multivariable linear regression.

Results

In total, 20 962 anesthetic cases were included. Pre‐incision blood pressure was associated with age (beta −0.04 SD per year), gender (female −0.11), previous surgery (−0.15), preoperative blood pressure (+0.01 per mm Hg), epilepsy (0.12), bronchial hyperactivity (−0.18), emergency surgery (0.10), loco‐regional technique (−0.48), artificial airway device (supraglottic airway device instead of tube 0.07), and sevoflurane concentration (0.03 per sevoflurane %).

Conclusions

Children with low pre‐incision blood pressure do not differ on clinically relevant factors from children with normal blood pressure. Although the present explorative study shows that pre‐incision blood pressure is partly dependent on patient characteristics and partly dependent on anesthetic technique, other unmeasured variables might play a more important role.
Cannabis use, depression and self‐harm: phenotypic and genetic relationships
Authors: Hodgson Karen , Coleman Jonathan R. I. , Hagenaars Saskia P. , Purves Kirstin L. , Glanville Kylie , Choi Shing Wan , O'Reilly Paul , Breen Gerome ,   Major Depressive Disorder Working Group of the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium, Lewis Cathryn M.
Published: December 2019

Background and Aims

The use of cannabis has previously been linked to both depression and self‐harm; however, the role of genetics in this relationship is unclear. This study aimed to estimate the phenotypic and genetic associations between cannabis use and depression and self‐harm.

Design

Cross‐sectional data collected through UK Biobank were used to test the phenotypic association between cannabis use, depression and self‐harm. UK Biobank genetic data were then combined with consortia genome‐wide association study summary statistics to further test the genetic relationships between these traits using LD score regression, polygenic risk scoring and Mendelian randomization methods.

Setting

United Kingdom, with additional international consortia data.

Participants

A total of 126 291 British adults aged between 40 and 70 years, recruited into UK Biobank.

Measurements

Phenotypic outcomes were life‐time history of cannabis use (including initial and continued cannabis use), depression (including single‐episode and recurrent depression) and self‐harm. Genome‐wide genetic data were used and assessment centre, batch and the first six principal components were included as key covariates when handling genetic data.

Findings

In UK Biobank, cannabis use is associated with an increased likelihood of depression [odds ratio (OR) = 1.64, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.59–1.70] and self‐harm (OR = 2.85, 95% CI = 2.69–3.01). The strength of this phenotypic association is stronger when more severe trait definitions of cannabis use and depression are considered. Using consortia genome‐wide summary statistics, significant genetic correlations are seen between cannabis use and depression [rg = 0.289, standard error (SE) = 0.036]. Polygenic risk scores for cannabis use and depression explain a small but significant proportion of variance in cannabis use, depression and self‐harm within a UK Biobank target sample. However, two‐sample Mendelian randomization analyses were not significant.

Conclusions

Cannabis use appeared to be both phenotypically and genetically associated with depression and self‐harm. Limitations in statistical power mean that conclusions could not be made on the direction of causality between these traits.
General regression model: A “model‐free” association test for quantitative traits allowing to test for the underlying genetic model
Authors: Gloaguen Emilie , Dizier Marie‐Hélène , Boissel Mathilde , Rocheleau Ghislain , Canouil Mickaël , Froguel Philippe , Tichet Jean , Roussel Ronan ,   The D.E.S.I.R. Study Group, Julier Cécile , Balkau Beverley , Mathieu Flavie
Published: December 2019

Most genome‐wide association studies used genetic‐model‐based tests assuming an additive mode of inheritance, leading to underpowered association tests in case of departure from additivity. The general regression model (GRM) association test proposed by Fisher and Wilson in 1980 makes no assumption on the genetic model. Interestingly, it also allows formal testing of the underlying genetic model. We conducted a simulation study of quantitative traits to compare the power of the GRM test to the classical linear regression tests, the maximum of the three statistics (MAX), and the allele‐based (allelic) tests. Simulations were performed on two samples sizes, using a large panel of genetic models, varying genetic models, minor allele frequencies, and the percentage of explained variance. In case of departure from additivity, the GRM was more powerful than the additive regression tests (power gain reaching 80%) and had similar power when the true model is additive. GRM was also as or more powerful than the MAX or allelic tests. The true simulated model was mostly retained by the GRM test. Application of GRM to HbA1c illustrates its gain in power. To conclude, GRM increases power to detect association for quantitative traits, allows determining the genetic model and is easily applicable.
Online Tallies and the Context of Politics: How Online Tallies Make Dominant Candidates Appear Competent in Contexts of Conflict
Authors: Laustsen Lasse , Petersen Michael Bang
Published: December 2019

In this article, we extend the classical notion of online tallies to shed light on the psychology underlying the rapid emergence of dominant political leaders. Predicated on two population‐based panel surveys with embedded experiments, we demonstrate that citizens (1) store extremely durable tallies of candidate personalities in their long‐term memory and (2) retrieve different tallies depending on the context. In particular, we predict and demonstrate that when contexts become more conflict‐ridden, candidate evaluations rapidly shift from being negatively to positively associated with online impressions of candidate dominance. Although the notion of online tallies was originally proposed as an explanation of why citizens are able to vote for candidates on the basis of policy agreement, we demonstrate how the existence of context‐sensitive online tallies can favor dominant candidates, even if the candidate is otherwise unappealing or does not share policy views with citizens on key issues.
Embedding librarians in online tertiary classrooms: A new model for learner support
Authors: Fields Alison
Published: December 2019

Embedded librarians working in online classrooms present a new avenue of learner support direct to students in the space where they learn. The development of embedded librarian practice has evolved since 2004 and is becoming commonplace in online tertiary classrooms, but what is not yet so common is theory underlying this new practice. A multiple case study of embedded librarians in online tertiary classrooms in New Zealand was conducted to identify what makes this practice effective in providing support. Six factors were identified as contributing to effectiveness: relationality, immediacy, relevancy, interactivity, parity and faculty–librarian collaboration. The Embedded Librarian Support model was derived from, and is presented as the culmination of, the findings of this research.
Information on surgical treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia on YouTube is highly biased and misleading
Authors: Betschart Patrick , Pratsinis Manolis , Müllhaupt Gautier , Rechner Roman , Herrmann Thomas RW , Gratzke Christian , Schmid Hans–Peter , Zumstein Valentin , Abt Dominik
Published: December 2019

Objectives

To assess the quality of videos on the surgical treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (LUTS/BPH) available on YouTube, given that such video‐sharing platforms are frequently used as sources of patient information and the therapeutic landscape of LUTS/BPH has evolved substantially during recent years.

Materials and Methods

A systematic search for videos on YouTube addressing treatment options for LUTS/BPH was performed in May 2019. Measures assessed included basic data (e.g. number of views), grade of misinformation and reporting of conflicts of interest. The quality of content was analysed using the validated DISCERN questionnaire. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics.

Results

A total of 159 videos with a median (range) of 8570 (648–2 384 391) views were included in the analysis. Only 21 videos (13.2%) were rated as containing no misinformation, 26 (16.4%) were free of commercial bias, and two (1.3%) disclosed potential conflicts of interest. According to DISCERN, the median overall quality of the videos was low (2 out of 5 points for question 16). Only four of the 15 assessed categories (bipolar and holmium laser enucleation of the prostate, transurethral resection of the prostate and patient‐based search terms) were scored as having moderate median overall quality (3 points).

Conclusion

Most videos on the surgical treatment of LUTS/BPH on YouTube had a low quality of content, provided misinformation, were subject to commercial bias and did not report on conflicts of interest. These findings emphasize the importance of thorough doctor–patient communication and active recommendation of unbiased patient education materials.
Influence of mental stress and environmental toxins on circadian clocks: Implications for redox regulation of the heart and cardioprotection
Authors: Li Huige , Kilgallen Aoife B. , Münzel Thomas , Wolf Eva , Lecour Sandrine , Schulz Rainer , Daiber Andreas , Van Laake Linda W.
Published: December 2019

Risk factors in the environment such as air pollution and mental stress contribute to the development of chronic non‐communicable disease. Air pollution was identified as the leading health risk factor in the physical environment, followed by water pollution, soil pollution/heavy metals/chemicals and occupational exposures, however neglecting the non‐chemical environmental health risk factors (e.g. mental stress and noise). Epidemiological data suggest that environmental risk factors are associated with higher risk for cardiovascular, metabolic and mental diseases, including hypertension, heart failure, myocardial infarction, diabetes, arrhythmia, stroke, depression and anxiety disorders. We provide an overview on the impact of the external exposome comprising risk factors/exposures on cardiovascular health with a focus on dysregulation of stress hormones, mitochondrial function, redox balance and inflammation with special emphasis on the circadian clock. Finally, we assess the impact of circadian clock dysregulation on cardiovascular health and the potential of environment‐specific preventive strategies or “chrono” therapy for cardioprotection.

LINKED ARTICLES

This article is part of a themed issue on Risk factors, comorbidities, and comedications in cardioprotection. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v177.23/issuetoc
A qualitative exploration of reentry service needs: The case of fathers returning from prison
Authors: Muentner Luke , Charles Pajarita
Published: December 2019

The challenge of community and family reentry after a parent's release from prison remains an under‐addressed area of collateral damage stemming from high rates of U.S. incarceration. Many fathers released from prison return to living with family, and later attribute family connections and parent–child contact as key factors in their postrelease success. However, reentry planning is hampered by a dearth of research on family‐focused reentry services, and consequently, often omits attention to resuming family and parenting roles. To address this gap, we conducted 38 semi‐structured interviews with 19 previously incarcerated fathers, 9 co‐parenting mothers, and 10 relatives to explore service needs of fathers during reentry. Findings suggest programs not only should be multimodal, emphasizing family connections complemented by socioeconomic, self‐care, and social support services, but also should be accessible and relatable, offered within the community, and engaging for fathers and family members. Findings reinforce the importance of self‐determination and human agency while underscoring the multiple challenges fathers face upon reentry. By including the voices of those most affected by incarceration, this study advances knowledge to shape reentry programs and policies, contributes to efforts addressing criminal justice inequities, and promotes well‐being among formerly incarcerated parents and their families.
Psychological factors that determine people's willingness‐to‐share genetic data for research
Authors: Bearth Angela , Siegrist Michael
Published: December 2019

Of all the information that we share, health and genetic data might be among the most valuable for researchers. As data are handled as particularly sensitive information, a number of pressing issues regarding people's preferences and privacy concerns are raised. The goal of the present study was to contribute to an understanding of people's reported willingness‐to‐share genetic data for science (WTS). For this, predictive psychological factors (eg, risk and benefit perceptions, trust, knowledge) were investigated in an online survey (N = 416). Overall, participants seemed willing to provide their genetic data for research. Participants who perceived more benefits associated with data sharing were particularly willing to share their data for research (β = .29), while risk perceptions were less influential (β = −.14). As participants with higher knowledge of the potential uses of genetic data for research perceived more benefits (β = .20), WTS can likely be improved by providing people with information regarding the usefulness of genetic data for research. In addition to knowledge and perceptions, trust in data recipients increased people's willingness‐to‐share directly (β = .24). Especially in the sensitive area of genetic data, future research should strive to understand people's shifting perceptions and preferences.
Uptake of polygenic risk information among women at increased risk of breast cancer
Authors: Yanes Tatiane , Meiser Bettina , Kaur Rajneesh , Scheepers‐Joynt Maatje , McInerny Simone , Taylor Shelby , Barlow‐Stewart Kristine , Antill Yoland , Salmon Lucinda , Smyth Courtney , Young Mary‐Anne , James Paul A.
Published: December 2019

Polygenic risk scores (PRSs) are increasingly being implemented to assess breast cancer risk. This study aimed to assess and determine factors associated with uptake of PRS among women at increased risk of breast cancer for whom genetic testing to date had been uninformative. Participants were recruited from the Variants in Practice study from which breast cancer PRS had been calculated. Four hundred women were notified by letter of the availability of their PRS and invited to complete a self‐administered survey comprising several validated scales. Considering non‐participants, uptake of PRS was between 61.8% and 42.1%. Multivariate logistic regression identified that women were more likely to receive their PRS if they reported greater benefits (odds ratio [OR] = 1.17, P = .011) and fewer barriers to receiving their PRS (OR = 0.80, P = .007), had completed higher level education (OR = 3.32, P = .004), and did not have daughters (0.29, P = .006). Uptake of breast cancer PRS varied according to several testing‐ and patient‐related factors. Knowledge of these factors will facilitate the implementation of polygenic testing in clinical practice and support informed decision making by patients.
DATA‐DRIVEN DRAFTING: APPLYING ECONOMETRICS TO EMPLOY QUARTERBACKS
Authors: Rosen Jeremy , Olbrecht Alexandre
Published: December 2019

We show that firms can employ data‐driven methods to improve their hiring decisions. Specifically, we use data available to National Football League (NFL) teams prior to the NFL draft to estimate econometric models that predict the future performance of drafted quarterbacks. As our methods are replicable, stakeholders can use them to improve the draft's efficiency and help it accomplish its mission to promote competitive balance. Furthermore, data‐driven methods such as ours can help firms avoid biases against employee characteristics that do not affect future job performance. (JEL L83)
Macroscopic and microscopic morphology and molecular profiling to distinguish heterogeneous traditional serrated adenomas of the colorectum
Authors: Chino Akiko , Kawachi Hiroshi , Takamatsu Manabu , Hatamori Hiroyuki , Ide Daisuke , Saito Shoichi , Igarashi Masahiro , Fujisaki Junko , Nagayama Satoshi
Published: December 2019

Objectives

Serrated lesions of the colorectum often have complex histological morphology, and some groups include subtypes with different molecular biology. This study aimed to characterize serrated lesions with heterogeneous histology that was dominated by a traditional serrated adenoma (TSA) component.

Methods

Representative lesions were selected based on both endoscopic and histological features. If a lesion had more than one component, each of the different structural parts was considered as a separate sample. DNA was extracted from 177 samples of 60 lesions and amplified to screen for BRAF and K/NRAS mutations.

Results

Heterogeneous TSA samples were classified into four categories: sessile serrated lesion with TSA (SA‐1); TSAs with microvesicular hyperplastic polyp (SA‐2); TSAs with unclassified adenoma, characterized by tubulo‐serrated histology (SA‐3); and TSAs with conventional adenomas (SA‐4). On endoscopy, SA‐1 lesions had sessile‐elevated morphology with the small reddish elevations; SA‐2 lesions had a pedunculated appearance with a whitish mucosal component at the stalk; SA‐3 lesions had a sessile‐elevated component surrounded by flat spreading margins; and SA‐4 lesions had mixed adenomatous morphology. Eighteen of the 19 category SA‐1 and ‐2 lesions (95%) had BRAF mutations, and all of the SA‐3 and ‐4 lesions had K/NRAS mutations.

Conclusions

Traditional serrated adenomas were classified into two phenotypes according to their molecular characteristics: microvesicular serrated subtypes with BRAF mutations (SA‐1 and ‐2 lesions) and subtypes containing tubulo‐serrated/conventional adenoma with K/NRAS mutations (SA‐3 and ‐4 lesions). Each subtype had characteristic macroscopic and microscopic morphologies and was distinct on endoscopy.
Standard of care for social harms in HIV prevention trials: A South African perspective
Authors: Sookan Takshita , Zihindula Ganzamungu , Wassenaar Douglas
Published: December 2019

Background

The prevention of HIV remains an ongoing global concern. The safety and welfare of participants in these trials are imperative. Research Ethics Committees (RECs) review all reports of serious adverse events, adverse events and social harms arising in the course of such trials. There is little guidance for RECs on how to respond appropriately to social harm reports.

Methodology

This paper reviews the literature on social harms in HIV prevention trials and offers suggestions for RECs on how to respond appropriately to such reports.

Results

This review confirms that social harms are reported in clinical trials in South Africa and that specific guidance on managing these is minimal.

Conclusion

Social harms in South African HIV prevention trials need to be more systematically researched so that ethical evidence‐based prevention, care and treatment strategies can be developed. This review makes specific suggestions for further research on social harms that can inform further consultations to develop more specific guidance for stakeholders on appropriate responses to such social harms. Such future work may also inform future versions of relevant local and international ethics guidance on HIV prevention trials.
Assessment of excess medical costs for persons with type 2 diabetes according to age groups: an analysis of German health insurance claims data
Authors: Kähm K. , Stark R. , Laxy M. , Schneider U. , Leidl R.
Published: December 2019

Aim

This cross‐sectional study used a large nationwide claims data set to assess the excess medical costs of people with type 2 diabetes according to age group in 2015.

Methods

Data from 291 709 people with diabetes and 291 709 age‐ and sex‐matched controls were analysed. Total costs (expressed as 2015 euros) of outpatient and inpatient services, medication, rehabilitation, and the provision of aids and appliances were examined. Overall and age‐stratified excess costs of people with diabetes were estimated using gamma regression with a log‐link.

Results

Overall, the estimated total direct costs of a person with type 2 diabetes are approximately double those of a person without diabetes: €4727 vs. €2196, respectively. Absolute excess costs were approximately the same in all age groups (around €2500), however, relative excess costs of persons with diabetes were much higher in younger (~ 334% for < 50 years) than in older age groups (~ 156% for ≥ 80 years). Regional costs, both absolute and excess, partly differed from the national level.

Conclusions

This study complements and updates previous studies on the excess medical costs of people with diabetes in Germany. The results indicate the importance of preventing the development of type 2 diabetes, especially in younger age groups. Longitudinal and regional studies examining changes in prevalence and the development of excess costs in groups with different types of diabetes, and according to age, would be of interest to validate our findings and better understand the avoidable burden of having diabetes.
Population abundance gradient of Inurois punctigera along altitude
Authors: Yamamoto Satoshi , Matsuhisa Seiko
Published: December 2019

A winter geometrid moth, Inurois punctigera, shows sympatric and genetically isolated seasonal populations (i.e. early‐ and late‐winter populations) in the cold regions of Japan, whereas it shows only mid‐winter populations in the warm regions. Variation in adult flight phenology on a large geographic scale along latitudinal environmental gradients has been described, but the phenological variation on a more local scale along altitudinal environmental gradients has not yet been characterized. In the present study, we assessed the flight phenology at high‐ and low‐elevation areas in Mt. Rokko, Hyogo, Japan. First, we revealed that flight period was not disrupted in mid‐winter, even at high‐elevation areas (>660 m) but the population abundance was much lower in high‐elevation areas than in low‐elevation areas. Then, in the following two seasons, we investigated I. punctigera abundance, winter harshness (i.e. winter temperature) and their host plant abundance in nine closely located stations in Mt. Rokko. A generalized linear mixed model analysis indicated a greater effect of winter temperature on I. punctigera abundance compared to available food resources, suggesting that differences in winter harshness among elevation shapes the gradient of I. punctigera abundance along altitude. Our findings suggest that harsh conditions during winter function as selective agents on mid‐winter types of I. punctigera, and this could be involved in the divergence between sympatric early‐ and late‐winter populations of I. punctigera.
A Latent Transition Analysis of Perceived Parental Security Profiles Across 33 Months of Adolescence
Authors: Andretta James R. , Morgan Grant B. , Wells Kevin E. , McKay Michael T.
Published: December 2019

Objective

To examine associations among perceived parental security (PPS) profiles—that is, perceived communication quality with one's parents as well as feelings of trust and alienation toward them—and outcomes across 33 months of adolescence.

Background

Using cross‐sectional data, researchers have developed PPS profiles by categorizing adolescents based on Inventory of Parent and Peer Attachment—Revised (IPPA–R) scores. Researchers have not examined the stability of PPS profiles during adolescence.

Method

PPS among early adolescents (N = 2,032; Mage = 12.5; female = 50%) was assessed using IPPA–R scores, and profiles were identified using latent profile analysis. A mover–stayer, latent transition analysis was used to examine the degree to which moving between or staying within a particular PPS profile was associated with five outcomes—emotional, social, and academic self‐efficacy, sensation seeking, and subjective life expectancy—in this developmental period.

Results

At both data collections, profiles were not strongly associated with sex. Low‐Security profiles were disproportionately represented by individuals eligible for a free school lunch. Transitions to, or remaining in, the Low‐Security profile between Wave 1 and Wave 2 were generally associated with unfavorable outcomes.

Conclusion

PPS profiles and transitions accounted for a parent bond construct that was strongly associated with meaningful outcomes. Therefore, person‐centered analyses of IPPA–R scores, such as latent profile and transition analyses, are preferred methods of accounting for PPS in adolescence.

Implications

IPPA–R might be a useful tool for counselors working with adolescents, because scores point to tangible targets for intervention: (a) feelings of alienation from parents, (b) quality of communication with parents, and (c) feeling trusted by parents.
Association of dental caries morbidity stages with oral health‐related quality of life in children and adolescents
Authors: Pinheiro Sammia Anacleto de Albuquerque , Rodrigues Hermanda Barbosa , Santos Jhonatan Thiago Lacerda , Granja Gélica Lima , Lussi Adrian , Leal Soraya Coelho , Diniz Michele Baffi
Published: December 2019

Background

Dental caries morbidity stages and their impact on oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) have not yet been established.

Aim

To compare the association of dental caries morbidity stages with OHRQoL in children and adolescents from public schools of Patos‐PB, Brazil.

Design

A cross‐sectional study was performed on 461 students at 8‐10 years and 454 at 11‐14 years. Caries was evaluated by Caries Assessment Spectrum and Treatment (CAST) instrument. The maximum CAST code per individual was registered. OHRQoL was assessed using the Child Perceptions Questionnaires for children (CPQ8‐10) and adolescents (CPQ11‐14).

Results

Morbidity stage was the most prevalent caries condition in children (40.8%) and adolescents (38.1%). Factors associated with higher CPQ8‐10 scores in the multivariate regression analysis after adjustments were age [9 years, prevalence ratio (PR): 1.24; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.06‐1.45; and 10 years, PR: 1.32, CI: 1.13‐1.55] and dental caries status [morbidity, PR: 1.23, CI: 1.03‐1.48; and severe morbidity, PR: 1.30, CI: 1.04‐1.61]. The factor associated with higher CPQ11‐14 scores was dental caries status [morbidity, PR: 1.20, CI: 1.00‐1.44].

Conclusions

The OHRQoL of children was negatively associated with morbidity and severe morbidity stages of dental caries, while for adolescents, only morbidity had a negative association with their OHRQoL.
Quality of health care according to people with Down syndrome, their parents and support staff—A qualitative exploration
Authors: van den Driessen Mareeuw Francine A. , Coppus Antonia M. W. , Delnoij Diana M. J. , de Vries Esther
Published: December 2019

Background

People with Down syndrome (PDS) have complex healthcare needs. Little is known about the quality of health care for PDS, let alone how it is appraised by PDS and their caregivers. This study explores the perspectives of PDS, their parents and support staff regarding quality in health care for PDS.

Method

The present authors conducted semi‐structured interviews with 18 PDS and 15 parents, and focus groups with 35 support staff members (of PDS residing in assisted living facilities) in the Netherlands.

Results

According to the participants, healthcare quality entails well‐coordinated health care aligned with other support and care systems, a person‐centred and holistic approach, including respect, trust and provider–patient communication adapted to the abilities of PDS.

Conclusions

Our findings may be used to improve health care for PDS, and provide insight into how health care could match the specific needs of PDS.
21st‐century competences: The relation of ICT competences with higher‐order thinking capacities and teamwork competences in university students
Authors: Almerich Gonzalo , Suárez‐Rodríguez Jesús , Díaz‐García Isabel , Cebrián‐Cifuentes Sara
Published: December 2019

The Knowledge Society, along with the non‐stop growing technological evolution, entails university students acquiring new competences for them to be successful in society. These are called 21st‐century competences that come as high‐skill competences – higher‐order thinking capacities and teamwork competences – and information and communication technologies (ICT) competences – technological, pedagogical and ethical. This study aims to determine the link between ICT competences and high‐skill competences. A correlational study was conducted whose sample was formed by 983 students studying degrees at the Universidad de Valencia (Spain), selected by non‐probabilistic incidental sampling and collecting information with two questionnaires. The results indicate a positive and statistically significant relation between ICT competences with the other two considered sets: higher‐order thinking capacities and teamwork competences. Moreover, pedagogical competences are more related with the two high‐skill competence sets. This suggests the need for training plans that favour learning 21st‐century competences and for stressing pedagogical competences in ICT.
Metabolic imaging using hyperpolarized 13C‐pyruvate to assess sensitivity to the B‐Raf inhibitor vemurafenib in melanoma cells and xenografts
Authors: Acciardo Stefania , Mignion Lionel , Lacomblez Estelle , Schoonjans Céline , Joudiou Nicolas , Gourgue Florian , Bouzin Caroline , Baurain Jean‐François , Gallez Bernard , Jordan Bénédicte F.
Published: December 2019

Nearly all melanoma patients with a BRAF‐activating mutation will develop resistance after an initial clinical benefit from BRAF inhibition (BRAFi). The aim of this work is to evaluate whether metabolic imaging using hyperpolarized (HP) 13C pyruvate can serve as a metabolic marker of early response to BRAFi in melanoma, by exploiting the metabolic effects of BRAFi. Mice bearing human melanoma xenografts were treated with the BRAFi vemurafenib or vehicle. In vivo HP 13C magnetic resonance spectroscopy was performed at baseline and 24 hours after treatment to evaluate changes in pyruvate‐to‐lactate conversion. Oxygen partial pressure was measured via electron paramagnetic resonance oximetry. Ex vivo qRT‐PCR, immunohistochemistry and WB analysis were performed on tumour samples collected at the same time‐points selected for in vivo experiments. Similar approaches were applied to evaluate the effect of BRAFi on sensitive and resistant melanoma cells in vitro, excluding the role of tumour microenvironment. BRAF inhibition induced a significant increase in the HP pyruvate‐to‐lactate conversion in vivo, followed by a reduction of hypoxia. Conversely, the conversion was inhibited in vitro, which was consistent with BRAFi‐mediated impairment of glycolysis. The paradoxical increase of pyruvate‐to‐lactate conversion in vivo suggests that such conversion is highly influenced by the tumour microenvironment.
Commentary: Umbrella synthesis of meta‐analyses on child maltreatment antecedents and interventions – a commentary on van IJzendoorn and colleagues (2020)
Authors: Herrenkohl Todd I.
Published: December 2019

This commentary refers to research by IJzendoorn and colleagues (2019), who conducted an umbrella synthesis on child maltreatment antecedents and interventions. Comments that I offer underscore the valuable contribution of this work for ongoing research, policy, and practice relevant to the etiology and prevention of child maltreatment. The synthesis brings clarity to a growing and diverse body of scholarship and draws attention to gaps in the literature that must be addressed if to advance well‐designed and theoretically robust interventions, and to more rapidly bring promising programs to scale. The work presented by the authors is timely and persuasive, offering important insights and guidance that will be appreciated by the journal’s readership.
Sociolinguistics and everyday (in)securitization
Authors: Rampton Ben , Charalambous Constadina
Published: December 2019

ThisJournal of Sociolinguisticsdialogue starts from the perception that existential threats to national security have become an increasingly pervasive concern in daily life, spreading fear and suspicion through civil society. Communicative practices play a central role in these processes of (in)securitization, but sociolinguists appear to have paid them less attention than they deserve. So in what follows, six researchers discuss the significance of (in)securitization for our everyday experience and the implications for sociolinguistic theory and research.

The dialogue opens with Ben Rampton and Constadina Charalambous, who introduce the concept of (in)securitization from International Relations (IR) research and sketch potential connections and challenges to standard sociolinguistic theories and concepts. Then the four papers that follow pick this up from different angles in different geographic locations. Ariana Mangual Figueroa discusses (in)securitization’s radical impact on research relationships in ethnography, focusing on the US. Zeena Zakharia addresses the effects of large‐scale conflict on language education, both in the US and in Lebanon. Erez Levon considers the connections between nationalism and sexuality, bringing in the strategies with which gay and lesbian Israelis navigate the insecuritizing discourses they encounter. Then Rodney Jones discusses the interactional dynamics of surveillance, moving between police encounters and the internet to show the thin line between protection and precarity. At the end of the dialogue, we address three questions, collaboratively reaffirming the urgency of these issues, the significance of (in)securitization in everyday communicative practice, and the ramifications for sociolinguistics.