bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Digitalization in practice: the fifth discipline advantage
Authors: Hoe Siu Loon
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide advice to organizations on how to become successful in the digital age. The paper revisits Peter Senge’s (1990) notion of the learning organization and discusses the relevance of systems thinking and the other four disciplines, namely, personal mastery, mental models, shared vision and team learning in the context of the current digitalization megatrend.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on content analysis of essays from international organizations, strategy experts and management scholars, and insights gained from the author’s consulting experience. A comparative case study from the health and social sector is also included.

Findings

With the current digitalization megatrend sweeping across the globe, the practice of systems thinking would certainly become more crucial for organizations seeking to develop new digital ecosystems. In addition, the application of the other four disciplines of the learning organization would also help to nurture a digital culture for organizations to stay ahead of the competition.

Practical implications

Organizations and digitalization practitioners could benefit from applying systems thinking to develop digital ecosystems, and the other four disciples to nurture a digital culture.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the existing literature by offering a relook and justifications on the relevance of the five disciplines, in particular systems thinking, in the present times. It offers advice to organizations on how to become successful as part of the digital transformation journey.
Facilitated personhood
Authors: Wolf‐Meyer Matthew
Published: January 2020

Anthropological models of personhood suggest that the individual is produced through relational ties to others, including humans and nonhumans. American ideas about the individual are deeply ideological, obscuring the human relations that make ‘personhood’ a possible, desirable concept that motivates subjection. Attending to neurological disorders and the technologies that attempt to remedy communication impairments shows that not only is the labour of other humans obscured in producing the individual, but so are the facilitating capacities of technologies and institutions. This article focuses on memoirs of disability and ethnographic and historiographic research on neuroscience to show how personhood is facilitated and produced through engagements with people, technologies, and institutions that attempt to render particular forms of subjection through communicative practices.
Changes in emergency department dental visits after Medicaid expansion
Authors: Elani Hawazin W. , Kawachi Ichiro , Sommers Benjamin D.
Published: January 2020

Objectives

To estimate the effect of Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) on the frequency and payment source for Emergency Department (ED) visits for dental care.

Study Design

Retrospective, quasi‐experimental study.

Data Sources/Study Setting

We used the State Emergency Department Database to compare changes in ED visit rates and payment source for dental conditions among patients from 33 states. These states represent four distinct policy environments, based on whether they expanded Medicaid and whether their Medicaid programs provide dental benefits. We first assessed the number of ED dental visits before (2012) and after (2014) the ACA. Then, we used differences‐in‐differences regression to estimate changes in insurance for dental visits by nonelderly adults.

Principal Findings

Our sample contained 375 944 dental ED visits. In states that expanded Medicaid and offered dental coverage, dental ED visits decreased by 14.1 percent (from 19 443 to 16 709, for a net difference of 2734). By contrast, in the remaining three state groups, dental ED visits rose. Meanwhile, the expansion significantly increased Medicaid coverage and decreased the rate of self‐pay for ED dental visits.

Conclusions

Medicaid expansion, combined with adult dental coverage in Medicaid, was associated with a reduction in ED utilization for dental visits.
Estimation of the proportion of population cannabis consumption in Australia that is accounted for by daily users using Monte Carlo Simulation
Authors: Chan Gary C. K. , Hall Wayne
Published: January 2020

Aim

To estimate the proportion of cannabis consumed in Australia by daily cannabis users.

Design

Monte Carlo simulation using parameters estimated from nationally representative and repeated cross‐sectional household surveys in 2007, 2010, 2013 and 2016.

Setting

Australia

Participants

Adult samples (mean age = 49.9; 55% females) from four National Drug Strategy Household Surveys (n = 92 243).

Measurement

Frequency of cannabis use (daily/weekly/about once a month/every few months/once or twice a year). The weighted estimated prevalence of users in each of these frequency levels was multiplied by population size to estimate the total number of users. Quantity of cannabis use was measured as number of joints consumed. The consumption of those who reported using bongs was converted into joints based on the bong to joint ratio estimated from the survey data. We estimated the proportion of cannabis consumed by daily users by Monte Carlo simulation using parameters estimated from the household surveys. We conducted 10 000 simulation trials, and in each trial we [1] simulated the number of users at each consumption level (stratum) based on estimated prevalence and population size[2], for each simulated individual, we simulated the number of days of cannabis use in a year based on frequency data[3], for each consumption day, we simulated the quantity consumed [4] and lastly we calculated the total joints consumed at each consumption level and estimated the proportion of joints consumed by daily users out of the total consumption.

Findings

The prevalence of past‐year cannabis use increased from 8.9% [95% confidence interval (CI) = 8.5–9.4] in 2007 to 10.5% (95% CI = 10.0–11.1) in 2016, 16% of whom were daily users. Between 2007 and 2016, daily users accounted for between 81.6 and 85.7% of all cannabis consumed. Weekly users accounted for an additional 12.1–15.9%.

Conclusion

Between 2007 and 2016, only one in six Australian cannabis users were daily users, but they accounted for more than 80% of the estimated cannabis consumed in Australia.
Genomic reaction norm models exploiting genotype × environment interaction on sexual precocity indicator traits in Nellore cattle
Authors: Mota L. F. M. , Fernandes G. A. , Herrera A. C. , Scalez D. C. B. , Espigolan R. , Magalhães A. F. B. , Carvalheiro R. , Baldi F. , Albuquerque L. G.
Published: January 2020

Brazilian beef cattle are raised predominantly on pasture in a wide range of environments. In this scenario, genotype by environment (G×E) interaction is an important source of phenotypic variation in the reproductive traits. Hence, the evaluation of G×E interactions for heifer’s early pregnancy (HP) and scrotal circumference (SC) traits in Nellore cattle, belonging to three breeding programs, was carried out to determine the animal’s sensitivity to the environmental conditions (EC). The dataset consisted of 85 874 records for HP and 151 553 records for SC, from which 1800 heifers and 3343 young bulls were genotyped with the BovineHD BeadChip. Genotypic information for 826 sires was also used in the analyses. EC levels were based on the contemporary group solutions for yearling body weight. Linear reaction norm models (RNM), using pedigree information (RNM_A) or pedigree and genomic information (RNM_H), were used to infer G×E interactions. Two validation schemes were used to assess the predictive ability, with the following training populations: (a) forward scheme—dataset was split based on year of birth from 2008 for HP and from 2011 for SC; and (b) environment‐specific scheme—low EC (−3.0 and −1.5) and high EC (1.5 and 3.0). The inclusion of the H matrix in RNM increased the genetic variance of the intercept and slope by 18.55 and 23.00% on average respectively, and provided genetic parameter estimates that were more accurate than those considering pedigree only. The same trend was observed for heritability estimates, which were 0.28–0.56 for SC and 0.26–0.49 for HP, using RNM_H, and 0.26–0.52 for SC and 0.22–0.45 for HP, using RNM_A. The lowest correlation observed between unfavorable (−3.0) and favorable (3.0) EC levels were 0.30 for HP and −0.12 for SC, indicating the presence of G×E interaction. The G×E interaction effect implied differences in animals’ genetic merit and re‐ranking of animals on different environmental conditions. SNP marker–environment interaction was detected for Nellore sexual precocity indicator traits with changes in effect and variance across EC levels. The RNM_H captured G×E interaction effects better than RNM_A and improved the predictive ability by around 14.04% for SC and 21.31% for HP. Using the forward scheme increased the overall predictive ability for SC (20.55%) and HP (11.06%) compared with the environment‐specific scheme. The results suggest that the inclusion of genomic information combined with the pedigree to assess the G×E interaction leads to more accurate variance components and genetic parameter estimates.
Effects of white, yellow, and blue colored LEDs on milk production, milk composition, and physiological responses in dairy cattle
Authors: Son Jiseon , Park Jinryong , Kang Darae , Belal Shah Ahmed , Cha Jangock , Shim Kwanseob
Published: January 2020

Light emitting diode (LED) is more energy efficient than incandescent or fluorescent light. This study was to evaluate effects of different colored LEDs on milk production, milk composition, and physiology of Holstein cow. According to milk production and parity, cows (n = 186) were allotted to four treatments: control (natural daylight), white, yellow, and blue LED groups. Of these, 40 cows that had passed 57 day‐in‐milk were used. Yellow and blue LED groups demonstrated greater rates of decline in milk production than control and white LED groups. At the finish point, milk fat, protein, and lactose contents were the lowest in the blue LED group, whereas milk–urea–nitrogen levels were the highest in the yellow and blue LED groups. Extended exposure to blue LED light lowered antioxidant enzyme activity and insulin‐like growth factor‐1 levels. Prolactin concentrations were higher in the white and blue LED groups than in the control. Cortisol level was the highest in the blue LED group among the groups. Nonesterified fatty acid levels in the yellow and blue LED groups decreased to the greatest extent compared to the start point. These results suggest that blue LED light can decrease milk production and generate more stress than white and yellow LED lights.
Names and naming in adoption: Birth heritage and family‐making
Authors: Pilcher Jane , Hooley Zara , Coffey Amanda
Published: January 2020

In this article, we consider the significance and practices of names and naming in adoption to develop understanding of the issue amongst scholars, policymakers, adoption practitioners, and adoption communities. Research on the topic of names and adoption is scarce and focused mostly on international and domestic adoptions in the United States. We draw on the research literature to critically explore names and naming in adoption through two recurrent and related themes. The first is “birth heritage,” where names, forenames especially, are shown to be important in the approach taken by adopters to their child's birth family and cultural identity. The second theme is “family‐making,” where namesaking and homogeneity of surname emerge, amongst others, as strategies to create, sustain, and display “family.” In gathering together for the first time an otherwise scattered, disparate body of research, our article showcases names and naming as illuminating distillations of key contemporary challenges experienced by families formed through adoption. We conclude our article by considering emergent gaps in existing knowledge and understanding about names, naming, and adoption that might usefully be addressed, to inform professional advice and familial decisions about names, and enhance outcomes for adoptees and their families.
Cutaneous “fibroma‐like” perivascular epithelioid cell tumor: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Odoño Eugene I. G. , Tan Kong‐Bing , Tay Sok Yan , Lee Victor Kwan Min
Published: January 2020

Perivascular epithelioid cell tumors (PEComas) are a group of lesions sharing the common features of co‐expression of melanocytic and myogenic markers, with focal association of the cells with vascular walls. The PEComa group exhibits a wide range of morphologies. A “fibroma‐like” variant of PEComa has been recently described. The case reported herein is that of an infant with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) presenting with a lip mass. Excisional biopsy showed a moderately cellular tumor composed of spindled to stellate cells embedded within a collagenized stroma. The cells showed focal perivascular accumulation and positivity for both melanocytic (HMB‐45) and myogenic (desmin) markers. This is the fifth reported case of “fibroma‐like” PEComa in literature and the youngest patient to date. All of the “fibroma‐like” PEComas were found in patients with tuberous sclerosis—hence, the diagnosis of this entity should prompt a workup for TSC; conversely, a fibroma‐like lesion in a patient with TSC or with TSC‐related conditions should be evaluated using melanocytic and myogenic markers. Melanocytic and myogenic markers are also useful in differentiating “fibroma‐like” PEComa from other differential diagnoses such as fibroma and benign fibrous histiocytoma.
Two‐photon microscopic observation of cell‐production dynamics in the developing mammalian neocortex in utero
Authors: Kawasoe Ryotaro , Shinoda Tomoyasu , Hattori Yuki , Nakagawa Mami , Pham Trung Quang , Tanaka Yoshihiro , Sagou Ken , Saito Kanako , Katsuki Satoru , Kotani Tomomi , Sano Akihito , Fujimori Toshihiko , Miyata Takaki
Published: January 2020

Morphogenesis and organ development should be understood based on a thorough description of cellular dynamics. Recent studies have explored the dynamic behaviors of mammalian neural progenitor cells (NPCs) using slice cultures in which three‐dimensional systems conserve in vivo‐like environments to a considerable degree. However, live observation of NPCs existing truly in vivo, as has long been performed for zebrafish NPCs, has yet to be established in mammals. Here, we performed intravital two‐photon microscopic observation of NPCs in the developing cerebral cortex of H2B‐EGFP or Fucci transgenic mice in utero. Fetuses in the uterine sac were immobilized using several devices and were observed through a window made in the uterine wall and the amniotic membrane while monitoring blood circulation. Clear visibility was obtained to the level of 300 μm from the scalp surface of the fetus, which enabled us to quantitatively assess NPC behaviors, such as division and interkinetic nuclear migration, within a neuroepithelial structure called the ventricular zone at embryonic day (E) 13 and E14. In fetuses undergoing healthy monitoring in utero for 60 min, the frequency of mitoses observed at the apical surface was similar to those observed in slice cultures and in freshly fixed in vivo specimens. Although the rate and duration of successful in utero observations are still limited (33% for ≥10 min and 14% for 60 min), further improvements based on this study will facilitate future understanding of how organogenetic cellular behaviors occur or are pathologically influenced by the systemic maternal condition and/or maternal‐fetal relationships.
Ventricular Dyssynchrony based on echocardiographic variables and exercise tolerance After right ventricular pacing: Impact of alternative septal lead locations
Authors: Mahfouz Ragab A , Mesbah Mohamed , Ammar Ahmad S , Khedr Mohammed H , Abdullah Radwa M
Published: January 2020

Objective

We investigated the impact of alternative locations of right ventricular (RV) pacing on left ventricular function and its relation to exercise capacity.

Methods

Fifty patients who received a single lead pacemaker were divided according to RV pacing site into group 1 "high septum" (n = 15), group 2 "mid‐septum" (n = 25), and group 3 "low septum" (n = 10) using a documented fluoroscopic method. Dyssynchrony parameters were obtained using different echocardiographic parameters. Their exercise tolerance was evaluated after 6 months of pacemaker implantation using 6 minutes walk test (6 MWT).

Results

We found a lesser degree of dyssynchrony in mid‐location and high location compared with low location pacing (radial dyssynchrony: P < .001; maximum temporal difference: P < .01; inter‐ventricular mechanical delay: P < .05, standard deviation of time‐to‐peak strain by tissue Doppler: P < .05). Sm was significantly increased 6 months following pacemaker implantation in group 1 and group 2 in contrast to group 3 patients (P < .05). Importantly, E/e' increased significantly (P < .001) in patients with low septal location pacing. Furthermore, 6 MWT distance was significantly improved (P < .001) in favor of groups 1 and 2. Importantly, the intra‐ventricular dyssynchrony with speckle tracking was considerably less in group 1 and 2 patients. Tps‐SL ≤ 120 ms was the optimal value to predict improvement in functional capacity following high to mid‐septal pacing locations.

Conclusion

There was significant improvement of functional capacity after RV pacing in high and mid‐septal locations compared with low septal location. This was associated with a lesser degree of dyssynchrony in favor with mid‐ to high septal location.
Gender Equality in Appointments of Board Members: The Role of Multiple Actors and their Dynamics
Authors: Blommaert Lieselotte , van den Brink Marieke
Published: January 2020

Prior research has demonstrated the role of gender in recruitment and selection processes. We contribute to this literature by moving beyond studying persisting barriers for women and exploring collective practices that can contribute to gender equality. Drawing on in‐depth case studies of recent appointments to corporate boards in the Netherlands, we examine the role of multiple actors and their collective strategies and dynamic interactions. This way, we provide a better understanding of the possibilities of multiple actors to bring about change or reinforce the status quo. Our findings reveal, first, that a group of ‘moderate change agents' are crucial for outcomes of appointment procedures. Second, we identify three practices of coalitions of change agents that further the change agenda: seeking support, mobilizing moderate actors and counterbalancing routines. Our results suggest that if frontrunners receive support from and mobilize moderate change agents, routine gender practices can successfully be challenged and countered, as moderates give support and legitimacy to more radical actors and can bridge the gap between the latter and resisters.
Innovative Contaminant Mass Flux Monitoring in an Aquifer Subject to Tidal Effects
Authors: Jamin Pierre , Cosme Frédéric , Briers Pierre , Orban Philippe , De Greene Ken , Brouyère Serge
Published: January 2020

Exposure from groundwater contamination to aquatic receptors residing in receiving surface water is dependent upon the rate of contaminated groundwater discharge. Characterization of groundwater fluxes is challenging, especially in coastal environments where tidal fluctuations result in transient groundwater flows towards these receptors. This can also be further complicated by the high spatial heterogeneity of subsurface deposits enhanced by anthropogenic influences such as the mixing of natural sediments and backfill materials, the presence of subsurface built structures such as sheet pile walls or even occurrence of other sources of contaminant discharge. In this study, the finite volume point dilution method (FVPDM) was successfully used to characterize highly transient groundwater flows and contaminant mass fluxes within a coastal groundwater flow system influenced by marked tides. FVPDM tests were undertaken continuously for more than 48 h at six groundwater monitoring wells, in order to evaluate groundwater flow dynamics during several tide cycles. Contaminant concentrations were measured simultaneously which allowed calculating contaminant mass fluxes. The study highlighted the importance of the aquifer heterogeneity, with groundwater fluxes ranging from 10−7 to 10−3 m/s. Groundwater flux monitoring enabled a significant refinement of the conceptual site model, including the fact that inversion of groundwater fluxes was not observed at high tide. Results indicated that contaminant mass fluxes were particularly higher at a specific monitoring well, by more than three orders of magnitude, than at other wells of the investigated aquifer. This study provided crucial information for optimizing further field investigations and risk mitigation measures.
How to measure a latent construct: Psychometric principles for the development and validation of measurement instruments
Authors: El-Den Sarira , Schneider Carl , Mirzaei Ardalan , Carter Stephen
Published: January 2020

Measurement instruments are used to collect data about respondents. In social pharmacy, measurement instruments are often used to measure latent constructs, such as attitudes, among healthcare professionals and patients. This paper aims to describe the fundamental aspects of designing and validating instruments, which aim to measure latent constructs. The main focus of this manuscript is to describe the considerations and processes relating to exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, when used to develop measures of latent psychosocial constructs. However, it also presents a detailed summary of the current evidence and suggestions for item generation and sample selection, as well as, an in-depth description of approaches to content and face validation. Suggestions for further reading are also provided.
Ischaemic stroke and transient ischaemic attack on anticoagulants: outcomes in the era of direct oral anticoagulants
Authors: Valente Michael , Leung Shelton , Wu Philip , Oh Danielle H. , Tran Hyuen , Choi Philip M. C.
Published: January 2020

Clinical and imaging characteristics of patients receiving direct oral anticoagulants presenting with transient ischaemic attack or stroke are lacking. A retrospective review of all patients who presented to a high‐volume primary stroke centre with acute stroke symptoms while prescribed an oral anticoagulant between January 2012 and June 2017. Clinical, radiological characteristics and functional outcomes were examined. Anticoagulated patients diagnosed with stroke or transient ischaemic attack shared similar disease and outcome characteristics irrespective of anticoagulants used. One‐third of warfarin patients with sub‐therapeutic international normalised ratios were treated with thrombolytics but no direct oral anticoagulants level was performed in any of the patients, with only one treated by intravenous thrombolysis.
Celebrating the career and contributions of Dr Henry T. Lynch (1928–2019)
Authors: Butel‐Simoes Grace I. , Macrae Finlay , Spigelman Allan D.
Published: January 2020

This article celebrates the career of Dr Henry Lynch and his contributions to cancer genetics through his extensive research, clinical practice and his passion for personalising care by using a patient's genetic profile to determine management and treatment. Dr Lynch's contributions were momentous and continue to have relevance to medical practice, in particular in the fields of clinical genetics, medical oncology and gastroenterology.
Disappearing investment‐cash flow sensitivities: Earnings have not become a worse proxy for cash flow
Authors: Andrén Niclas , Jankensgård Håkan
Published: January 2020

According to a recent conjecture in the literature, earnings have become a poorer proxy for cash flow from operations over time. We find that since 1988, when cash flow statements started to be consistently reported in Compustat, the cash effectiveness of earnings has actually increased for a large sample of US manufacturing firms. This occurs despite the introduction of fair value accounting and increasing accounting accruals during the last three decades. Also contrary to the conjecture, using more comprehensive measures of cash flow does not restore the investment‐cash flow sensitivity, which continues to be around 0.05 in more recent periods.
Pulmonary veins anatomical determinants of cooling kinetics during second‐generation cryoballoon ablation
Authors: Borio Gianluca , Maj Riccardo , Alessandro Rizzo , Stroker Erwin , Sieira Juan , Osorio Thiago G. , Galli Alessio , Terasawa Muryo , Bala Gezim , Al Housari Maysam , Paparella Gaetano , Iacopino Saverio , Overeinder Ingrid , Brugada Pedro , de Asmundis Carlo , Chierchia Gian B.
Published: January 2020

Aim

The aim of the study was to investigate the role of anatomical characteristics of the pulmonary veins (PVs) determining cooling kinetics during second‐generation cryoballoon ablation (CbA).

Methods and Results

we enrolled all consecutive patients who underwent CbA for symptomatic atrial fibrillation in our center from January 2019 to March 2019. All patients had complete computed tomography scans of the heart before the ablation. Anatomical characteristics were tested for prediction of a nadir temperature (NT) ≤ −48°C. Significant differences were noted among PV max diameter (20.8 ± 2.8 vs 18.5 ± 2.5 mm; P < .001); PV minimum diameter (15.2 ± 3.0 vs 13.0 ± 3.1 mm; P < .001); PV area (268.1 ± 71.9 vs 206.2 ± 58.7 mm2; P < .001); PV ovality (1.4 ± 0.3 vs 1.5 ± 0.3; P = .005); and PV trunk length (27.4 ± 7.4 vs 21.3 ± 6.5 mm; P < .001). A scoring system was created by assigning one point each ranging from 0 (best anatomical combination) to 5. In the group with a score of 0, 94.0% of the CbA could reach a NT ≤ −48°C whereas with a score of 5, only 29.0% (P < .001). Left superior pulmonary vein with short trunk length and acute angle of PV branch was significantly associated with warmer NT (11.8% satisfactory CbA; P = .003). Regarding right inferior pulmonary vein, trunk length (P = .004), maximum diameter (P = .044), and transverse angle (P = .008) were independently associated with good NT.

Conclusion

Anatomical PV features are associated with cooling kinetics and an anatomical score could predict lower NT during second‐generation CbA. Specific characteristics were identified for inferior PV. Although heart imaging is not mandatory prior CbA, it can be a useful tool to predict cooling kinetics.
Choroidal thickness is associated with renal hemodynamics in essential hypertension
Authors: Geraci Giulio , Maria Zammuto Marta , Vadalà Maria , Mattina Alessandro , Castellucci Massimo , Guarrasi Giulia , Nardi Emilio , Maida Carlo , Zanoli Luca , Cillino Salvatore , Cottone Santina , Mulè Giuseppe
Published: January 2020

The choroid is the most vascularized structure of the eye and plays a central role in the development of the retinal vascular changes that occur in arterial hypertension. Changes of choroidal thickness (ChT) assessed by optical coherence tomography (OCT) technology could reflect the vascular complications of hypertension. Also, intrarenal hemodynamic damage, associated with endothelial dysfunction, demonstrated to be a good indicator of systemic morphofunctional arterial impairment. The aim of this study is to assess the relationship between ChT and renal hemodynamics in subjects with essential hypertension. Routine laboratory tests, clinical history, and physical examination, including blood pressure assessment, were performed in 90 subjects with essential hypertension. All patients underwent Doppler ultrasonographic evaluation of intra‐renal hemodynamics and OCT imaging to assess ChT. When subjects were divided in two groups based on renal resistive index (RRI), group I (RRI ≥ 75% percentile) showed significantly lower values of ChT than group II (RRI < 75% percentile) (P < .001). When divided in two groups based on the ChT median values, patients with lower ChT had significantly higher RRI values than those with ChT above the median values (P < .05). In multivariate model including age, eGFR, and other variables as confounding factors, RRI ≥ 75% was independently associated with ChT. ChT was significantly correlated with renal resistive index in subjects with essential hypertension, confirmed in multivariate analyses. This result could be referred to changes in vascular elastic properties that occur in retinal and intrarenal vascular system probably due to oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction commonly found in early complications of hypertension.
Effect of Eryngium caeruleum essential oil on microbial and sensory quality of minced fish and fate of Listeria monocytogenes during the storage at 4°C
Authors: Mirahmadi Sepideh Sadat , Aminzare Majid , Azar Hassan Hassanzad , Kamali Koorosh
Published: January 2020

The present study investigated in vitro antimicrobial activity of Eryngium caeruleum essential oil (EEO) against five foodborne pathogenic bacteria based on microdilution and disk diffusion methods. Moreover, its effects on specific spoilage microorganisms, inoculated Listeria monocytogenes, and its sensory changes in minced fish were evaluated during 12 days of storage at refrigeration temperature. The results showed that Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli were the most sensitive and the most resistant bacteria with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 0.125 and 1 mg/ml, as well as inhibition zones of 15.66 and 11.66 mm, respectively. Regarding the antimicrobial effect of EEO on the microbial profile and inoculated L. monocytogenes, treating with 0.4% EEO caused a significant decrease in the studied microorganisms when compared to the control group (p < 0.05). In addition, considering the sensory evaluation, the best scores were observed for the samples treated with 0.2% and 0.4% EEO. However, none of the groups obtained acceptable scores until the final day of storage except for the color attribute. In general, sensory evaluation and its correlation with microbial counting indicated that the treatment with 0.4% EEO was able to preserve the microbial quality of the minced fish at refrigeration temperature without any undesirable sensory effects.
Exploring the effectiveness of an 18‐month weight management intervention in adults with Down syndrome using propensity score matching
Authors: Ptomey L. T. , Willis E. A. , Sherman J. R. , White D. A. , Donnelly J. E.
Published: January 2020

Background

Down syndrome (DS) is one of the most common birth defects in the USA associated with high levels of overweight and obesity. Unique characteristics of adults with DS that may contribute to the high levels of obesity are high rates of hypothyroidism, poor muscle tone, altered gait and lower resting metabolic rate. Due to these factors, it is unknown if the same weight management interventions that are effective in adults with intellectual or developmental disability (IDD) without DS are as effective in those with DS. Therefore, the purpose of this secondary analysis was to compare changes in weight, diet and physical activity between participants with DS‐related and non‐DS‐related IDD participating in an 18‐month weight management trial.

Methods

We used propensity score methods to adjust baseline variables of overweight/obese adults with and without DS participating in an 18‐month effectiveness trial with 6 months weight loss and 12 months weight maintenance. Participants followed one of two reduced calorie diet plans, obtained 150 min of moderate–vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) per week, and logged dietary intake daily. A health educator held monthly at‐home visits with participants and a caregiver to give feedback on intervention compliance.

Results

Out of the 124 participants that met the criteria for inclusion, 21 were diagnosed with DS and 103 with non‐DS‐related IDD. Twenty out of 21 participants with DS were successfully matched. Clinically significant weight loss was seen at 18 months in participants with DS (−5.2%) and non‐DS‐related IDD (−6.8%), with no difference between groups (P = 0.53). Significant reductions in energy intake were seen across the 18‐month intervention in both DS and non‐DS‐related IDD groups with between‐group differences at 12 months only (1119 vs. 1492 kcal/day, respectively; P = 0.003). Although MVPA did not increase in either group across the intervention, those with non‐DS‐related IDD had higher levels of MVPA compared with those with DS across 18 months.

Conclusion

Participants with DS lost a clinically significant amount of weight across the 18‐month intervention. Compared with those with non‐DS‐related IDD, those with DS lost similar amounts of weight, had similar decreases in energy intake and participated in less MVPA across the 18‐month intervention. Although individuals with DS have physiological factors that may contribute to obesity, weight management interventions designed for individuals with IDD may be equally effective in this population.
The Exercise Perceptions of People Treated with Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Zeng Jie , Bennett Paul N. , Hill Kathleen , Borlace Monique , Xu Qunyan
Published: January 2020

Background

Individuals receiving peritoneal dialysis (PD) report low levels of physical activity, which increases their risk of morbidity and mortality. Little is known about their perceptions towards barriers and benefits of exercise or physical activity.

Aim

The aim of this study was to explore the perceptions of exercise among people receiving PD.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional survey.

Participants

Thirty‐nine adults (12 female and 27 male) with a mean age of 65 years and a median of 8 months receiving PD from one Australian dialysis service.

Measurements

The 26‐item Dialysis Patient‐Perceived Exercise Benefits and Barriers Survey was adapted to PD in order to measure self‐reported barriers and benefits of exercise for people being treated with PD.

Results

The majority of the respondents reported positive perceptions towards exercise with 84.6% of the participants agreeing that exercise prevents muscular wasting; 71.8% agreed that exercise can postpone a decline in body function; and 69.2% agreed that exercise improves general well‐being. In terms of barriers, symptoms including tiredness (69.2%) and body pain (43.6%), worrying about a fall (33.3%) and lack of exercise‐related information (25.6%) were the main perceived barriers to exercise. Only 10% agreed that exercise may affect their PD catheter with 23% agreeing that fluid in their peritoneum was a barrier to exercise.

Conclusion

People on PD hold positive perceptions towards exercise but face a number of perceived barriers to physical activity. Clinicians can acknowledge these barriers and focus on helping people on PD to overcome their perceived barriers to encourage sustained exercise participation.
Targeted recombination in active populations as a new mouse genetic model to study sleep‐active neuronal populations: Demonstration that Lhx6+ neurons in the ventral zona incerta are activated during paradoxical sleep hypersomnia
Authors: Lee Hyun‐Sook , Yamazaki Risa , Wang Dianru , Arthaud Sébastien , Fort Patrice , DeNardo Laura A. , Luppi Pierre‐Hervé
Published: January 2020

The cFos immunostaining allowed the identification of multiple populations of neurons involved in the generation of paradoxical sleep. We adopted the transgenic (targeted recombination in active populations) mouse model, which following injection of tamoxifen, allows expression of Cre‐dependent reporter constructs (i.e., mCherry) in neurons expressing cFos during waking or paradoxical sleep hypersomnia following automatic paradoxical sleep deprivation. Three groups of mice were subjected to two periods of waking, one period of waking and one of paradoxical sleep hypersomnia, or two periods of paradoxical sleep hypersomnia. A high percentage of double‐labelled neurons was observed in the lateral hypothalamic area and zona incerta of two periods of waking and two periods of paradoxical sleep hypersomnia in mice, but not in those of one period of waking and one of paradoxical sleep hypersomnia in animals. Melanin‐concentrating hormone neurons in the lateral hypothalamic area and Lhx6+ cells in the zona incerta constituted 5.7 ± 1.5% and 8.8 ± 2.3% of all mCherry+ cells and 20.6 ± 4.8% and 24.6 ± 5.9% of all cFos+ neurons in two periods of paradoxical sleep hypersomnia in animals. In addition, melanin‐concentrating hormone cells as well as Lhx6+ neurons rarely expressed mCherry (or cFos) in the waking condition, in contrast to orexin neurons, which constituted approximately 30% of mCherry+ and cFos+ neurons. Our results validate the TRAP methodology and open the way to use it for identifying the neurons activated during waking and paradoxical sleep hypersomnia. Furthermore, they indicate for the first time that Lhx6+ neurons in the zona incerta, like melanin‐concentrating hormone cells in the lateral hypothalamic area, are activated during paradoxical sleep hypersomnia but not during waking. These results indicate that Lhx6+ neurons might play a role in the control of paradoxical sleep, like the melanin‐concentrating hormone cells.
An Asymptotic F Test for Uncorrelatedness in the Presence of Time Series Dependence
Authors: Wang Xuexin , Sun Yixiao
Published: January 2020

We propose a simple asymptotically F‐distributed Portmanteau test for zero autocorrelations in an otherwise dependent time series. By employing the orthonormal series variance estimator of the variance matrix of sample autocovariances, our test statistic follows an F distribution asymptotically under fixed‐smoothing asymptotics. The asymptotic F theory accounts for the estimation error in the underlying variance estimator, which the asymptotic chi‐squared theory ignores. Monte Carlo simulations reveal that the F approximation is much more accurate than the corresponding chi‐squared approximation in finite samples. The asymptotic F test is as easy to use as the chi‐squared test: there is no need to obtain critical values by simulations. Furthermore, it has more accurate empirical sizes and substantial power advantages, comparing to other competitors.
Computational phylogenetics and the classification of South American languages
Authors: Michael Lev , Chousou‐Polydouri Natalia
Published: January 2020

In recent years, South Americanist linguists have embraced computational phylogenetic methods to resolve the numerous outstanding questions about the genealogical relationships among the languages of the continent. We provide a critical review of the methods and language classification results that have accumulated thus far, emphasizing the superiority of character‐based methods over distance‐based ones and the importance of developing adequate comparative datasets for producing well‐resolved classifications.
Balthasar avec Kristeva: On the Recovery of a Baroque Teresa of Avila
Authors: Martin Jennifer Newsome
Published: January 2020

This article suggests that Hans Urs von Balthasar’s critique of hyper‐subjectivism in Spanish Carmelite mysticism can be valuably supplemented by Julia Kristeva’s experimental novel Teresa My Love: An Imagined Life of the Saint of Avila. In particular, I argue that Kristeva’s characterization of St. Teresa of Avila as a “baroque” subject nuances Balthasar’s critique, as the novel complicates the apparent binaries of immanence‐transcendence and subject‐object, presenting baroque subjectivity as dramatic, plural, porous, complicated, de‐centered, ek‐static, and erotic, inhabiting and inhabited by an o/Other, a construction of the subject which resists by definition the pull of a psychological solipsism. Moreover, the article suggests that Kristeva’s novel operates as a powerful rhetorical mechanism not only for bringing Teresa to life in a new way, but also for unveiling both Balthasar’s internal inconsistencies as well as his internal resources, the latter of which include his reflections on baroque representation and theatricality, particularly with respect to Ignatius of Loyola, and his figurations of selfhood and sainthood in terms both of liquidity and as “expropriated” and “unselved.”
Sceptics or supporters? Consumers’ views of work in the gig economy
Authors: Healy Joshua , Pekarek Andreas , Vromen Ariadne
Published: January 2020

Labour‐management practices and workers’ experiences in the gig economy are topics of major interest for researchers, regulators and the general public. Platform companies project a vision of gig workers as autonomous freelancers, but pervasive features of their own labour practices, along with workers’ traits, create new vulnerabilities and risks. Efforts to improve gig workers’ conditions to date have made in‐roads without achieving a general shift in platforms’ practices or gig workers’ conditions. In this paper, we explore how another, less‐recognised stakeholder group—consumers—shapes the conditions of gig work. Drawing on Australian public opinion data, we study consumers’ views of the gig economy and ask whether these will help or hinder pro‐worker campaigns. While consumers are sympathetic to gig workers’ financial plight, they also see benefits in the work’s flexibility and opportunities for jobseekers. We explain how our findings can inform advocacy campaigns and further gig economy research.
Access to fruit and vegetable markets and childhood obesity: A systematic review
Authors: Yang Shujuan , Zhang Xiao , Feng Ping , Wu Tong , Tian Ruochen , Zhang Donglan , Zhao Li , Xiao Chenghan , Zhou Zonglei , He Fang , Cheng Guo , Jia Peng
Published: January 2020

The lack of access to fruit/vegetable markets (FVMs) is thought to be a risk factor for childhood obesity by discouraging healthy dietary behaviours while encouraging access to venues that offer more unhealthy food (and thus the compensatory intake of those options). However, findings remain mixed, and there has not been a review of the association between FVM access and childhood obesity. A comprehensive and systematic understanding of this epidemiologic relationship is important to the design and implementation of relevant public health policies. In this study, a literature search was conducted in the Cochrane Library, PubMed, and Web of Science for articles published before 1 January 2019 that focused on the association between neighbourhood FVM access and weight‐related behaviours and outcomes among children and adolescents. Eight cross‐sectional studies, two longitudinal studies, and one ecological study conducted in five countries were identified. The median sample size was 2142 ± 1371. Weight‐related behaviours and outcomes were used as the outcome variable in two and eight studies, respectively, with one study using both weight‐related behaviours and outcomes as outcome variables. We still found a negative association between access to FVMs in children's residential and school neighbourhoods and weight‐related behaviours and an inconclusive association between FVM access and overweight or obesity. This conclusion should be regarded as provisional because of a limited amount of relevant evidence and may not be a strong guide for policymaking. Nonetheless, it points to an important research gap that needs to be filled if successful public health interventions are to be undertaken.
Effect of single‐nucleotide polymorphism in TERT promoter on follicular thyroid tumor development
Authors: Hirokawa Tatsuya , Arimasu Yuu , Nakazato Yoko , Chiba Tomohiro , Fujiwara Masachika , Kamma Hiroshi
Published: January 2020

Follicular thyroid neoplasm is a common tumor, and consists of follicular thyroid adenoma (FTA) and carcinoma (FTC). The mechanisms of tumor development of FTA and FTC are not well‐understood. Single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and point mutations in the telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) promoter have been associated with tumor development of many cancers. In order to clarify the significance of TERT promoter SNPs and mutations, including rs2853669 (−245T>C), C228T, and C250T, we analyzed 59 FTA patients and 19 FTC patients. Rs2853669 was found in 67.8% (40/59) and 57.9% (11/19) of FTAs and FTCs, respectively, and homozygous rs2853669 (CC) was more frequently found in FTC than in FTA. Furthermore, in FTA, rs2853669 was significantly associated with tumor size greater than 2.0 cm (P < 0.05). C228T was found in 5.1% and 36.8% of FTAs and FTCs, respectively. Frequencies of rs2853669 or/and C228T mutation were 71.2% in FTAs and 73.7%, in FTCs, and were significantly associated with larger tumor sizes in FTAs (P < 0.05). Rs2853669 is considered to be associated with tumor development in FTA and FTC.
Two autopsy cases of desmoplastic small round cell tumor
Authors: Yamamoto Yohei , Nishijima‐Matsunobu Aki , Hiroshima Yuko , Enomoto Katsuhiko , Inoue Masahiro , Muto Osamu , Suzuki Maya , Nanjo Hiroshi , Shibata Hiroyuki , Omori Yasufumi
Published: January 2020

Desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT) is a rare aggressive malignant tumor. It is a refractory tumor and the median overall survival is very short. We report two autopsy cases of DSRCT, both of which were already advanced and metastasized at the first medical examination. Both cases showed typical DSRCT findings in terms of localization of the lesions, histopathology and genetics, but the rate of disease progression was quite different. Survival after initial symptoms in Case 1 was only 12 months. On the other hand, survival after primary hospitalization in Case 2 was 42 months. The Case 2 patient initially received chemotherapy for advanced pancreatic carcinoma, because a nodule of the pancreatic tail was found on computed tomography (CT) scan. After chemotherapy, tumor regression was observed on CT scan. It is thus implied that adoption of the regimen for pancreatic carcinoma might have been one of reasons of the long survival in Case 2.
Environmental Health Advocacy and Industry Obstruction: The Case of Black Lung Disease
Authors: Bodenhamer Aysha , Shriver Thomas E.
Published: January 2020

There has been a deadly resurgence of black lung disease, particularly in central Appalachia. The disease has a long and contentious history in the United States. During the 1960s, coal miners and their supporters successfully mobilized for recognition and treatment of the disease when it was largely eradicated. We draw from literature on environmental health movements and contested environmental illness to analyze black lung advocacy and continued obstruction from the coal industry. Our data come from a case study that includes in‐depth interviews, participant observation, and document analysis. Results indicate that the black lung movement is now being spearheaded by professionals, such as medical and legal advocates, who partner with retired miners and their supporters. Unlike previous organizing efforts around black lung, active miners are largely absent from current advocacy efforts. Our findings also reveal four major obstruction tactics utilized by the industry, including: (1) industry denial, (2) falsifying records, (3) fear and intimidation, and (4) contestation of new regulations.