bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Successful Perioperative and Surgical Treatment of a Rare Case of Extra-Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Arising in the Prostate Gland
Authors: Schöffski Patrick , Sciot Raf , Debiec-Rychter Maria , Van Ongeval Johan , D'Hoore André , Merckx Luc , Joniau Steven
Published: February 2019

We report a very uncommon case of a primary, non-metastatic gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) arising in the prostate gland in a 60-year-old patient. The morphology and immunohistochemical profile of the disease resembled GIST of gastrointestinal origin, and the molecular driver of this malignancy was a double mutation in exons 11 and 13 of the KIT gene. The tumor was proliferating slowly, did respond to neoadjuvant therapy with the KIT-inhibiting agent imatinib and was cured by radical, retro-pubic prostatectomy followed by adjuvant imatinib treatment. We postulate that primary GIST tumors of the prostate can arise from prostatic interstitial cells, which are the pacemakers of smooth muscle contractility in the gland, and possibly share a common precursor with typical GIST and the interstitial cells of Cajal in the gastrointestinal tract.
CD44-Positive Glomerular Parietal Epithelial Cells in a Mouse Model of Calcineurin Inhibitors-Induced Nephrotoxicity
Authors: Hayashi Asako , Okamoto Takayuki , Yamazaki Takeshi , Sato Yasuyuki , Takahashi Toshiyuki , Ariga Tadashi
Published: February 2019

Background/Aims: Calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) such as cyclosporine A (CsA) and tacrolimus are immunosuppressants that are frequently used as “key drugs” in the fields of transplantation, steroid resistance, refractory nephrotic syndrome, and autoimmune disease. However, long-term CNI use causes nephrotoxicity, the features of which are arteriolar hyalinosis, tubular atrophy, striped interstitial fibrosis, and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). We investigated whether FSGS in CNI-induced nephrotoxicity is associated with CD44-positive glomerular parietal epithelial cells (PECs), which play a significant role in experimental and human FSGS pathogenesis. Methods: We utilized the mouse model of CsA-induced nephrotoxicity, as well as controls. Histopathological and functional data were sequentially collected from 1 to 25 weeks after CsA injection. Glomerular expression of CD44 was immunohistochemically evaluated, as were markers for glomerular podocytes and PECs. Results: Glomerular CD44 expression occurred from 2 weeks after CsA injection and gradually increased in the CsA group. CD44-positive glomerular cells showed coexpression of claudin-1 (PEC marker) but not of synaptopodin (podocyte marker). From 20 weeks after CsA injection, the cells formed a bridge between Bowman’s capsule and the capillary tuft. These features are compatible with those of activated PECs, in which increased foot process effacement leads to bridge formation, and subsequently to an increase in glomerulosclerosis and a decrease in the expression of podocyte markers from 20 weeks. Conclusion: CD44-positive (activated) PECs reflect extremely early podocyte injury in the progression of FSGS formation and may be a good marker for early detection of CNI-induced nephrotoxicity.
Association of Thyrotropin Concentration with Chronic Kidney Disease in a Japanese General Population Cohort
Authors: Toda Akiko , Hara Shigeko , Kato Masayuki , Tsuji Hiroshi , Arase Yasuji
Published: February 2019

Background: Previous studies have indicated an association between hypothyroidism and kidney dysfunction; however, few studies have investigated whether thyroid dysfunction is a risk factor for chronic kidney disease (CKD) development. And their result is not consistent. Objectives: We evaluated the association of thyroid dysfunction with CKD prevalence and development by a multivariate logistic regression analysis. Method: In cross-sectional and longitudinal studies, 16,390 subjects and 7,609 subjects, respectively, who underwent annual health check-ups were analyzed. We categorized the subjects into the following 4 groups based on their serum thyrotropin (TSH) ­concentrations: below-normal (TSH < 0.54 mU/L), lower-normal ­(0.54–2.40 mU/L), higher-normal (2.41–4.26 mU/L) and above-normal (> 4.26 mU/L). Subjects with eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 were determined to have CKD. Results: The cross-sectional study revealed a positive correlation between TSH concentration and CKD ­prevalence. Compared with the lower-normal TSH group, the ORs and 95% CIs of CKD prevalence were 0.61 (0.45–0.82, p = 0.001) for the below-normal group, 1.49 (1.33–1.67, p < 0.001) for the higher-normal group, and 1.90 (1.57–2.30, p < 0.001) for the above-normal group. The longitudinal study revealed that the risk of CKD development within 3 years was significantly higher in the above-normal TSH group than in the lower-normal TSH group (OR 1.58, 95% CI 1.02–2.45, p = 0.04). Conclusions: Our data indicate that higher TSH concentrations are positively correlated with CKD prevalence and that a high TSH concentration is a risk factor for CKD development.
Gingival Metastasis of ALK Rearranged Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Kitadai Rui , Okuma Yusuke , Kashima Jumpei
Published: February 2019

Background: Metastasis to oral soft tissues is rare and account for only 0.1% of all oral malignancies. Oral cavity metastasis tends to be male-predominant, and lung cancer is the leading cause. Targeted therapies for advanced ALK rearranged non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) have shown a promising higher response than cytotoxic chemotherapy. Gingival metastasis usually shows poor prognosis. However using ALK inhibitor to ALK-positive advanced NSCLC may show longer survival. Case: A 64-year-old male who was diagnosed non-small cell carcinoma (NSCC) favoring adenocarcinoma presented with gingival metastasis. After first-line chemotherapy, ALK rearrangement was revealed in both primary lesion and gingival metastasis, and therefore the patient was treated with alectinib. Tumor response of the primary site and gingival lesion were obtained, however he presented with intestinal metastasis that lead to bowel obstruction and passed away. Conclusion: Our case showed good response to primary tumor and gingival metastasis but not to intestinal obstruction. ALK inhibitor often shows high response rate and long survival for ALK rearrangement NSCLC, however ALK rearranged positive NSCLC with gingival metastasis may have poor prognosis.
Vorschlag für eine pluriperspektivische Analyse der Zielgruppe zur Auswahl eines neuen Lehrwerks oder
Authors: Friederici Luisa
Published: February 2019

Im vorliegenden Artikel wird eine Vorgehensweise zur Analyse der Zielgruppe, die als Grundlage zur Auswahl eines neuen DaF-Lehrwerks dient, beschrieben und begründet. Er ist im Bereich der Lehrwerkkritik und innerhalb dieser der Ziegruppeneignungsstudie zu verorten. Diese Analyse wird in drei Schritten vollzogen, zunächst wird die institutionelle Ebene betrachtet, dann die Lernerebene und schließlich die Ebene der Lehrkräfte. Die Analyse wird am Beispiel des Alexander von Humboldt Instituts Medellin illustriert. Ziel des Artikels ist es, ein detailliertes und erweitertes Analyseraster zur Zielgruppenanalyse zu präsentieren, das andere Institutionen für ihre Zwecke nutzen und adaptieren können.
Centenário da Imigração Japonesa (1908-2008)
Authors: Mendes Marcel
Published: February 2019

Em comemoração ao Centenário da Imigração Japonesa (1908-2008), homenageiam-se, neste artigo, os 100 primeiros engenheiros nikkeis formados em São Paulo. Para isso, propõem-se algumas questões que visam a refletir sobre a trajetória desses profissionais: O que têm a dizer as escolas de Engenharia de São Paulo a respeito dos seus ex-alunos “nikkeis”? Seria possível identificar traços de identidade comuns a esses cidadãos procedentes da “terra do sol nascente” que um dia quiseram se tornar engenheiros no Brasil? Quantos fragmentos do passado devem ser resgatados neste momento de celebração? Para responder a essas perguntas, este ensaio estabelece o seguinte itinerário investigativo: o resgate dos primórdios, o caminho da ascensão social, o pioneirismo na década de 1930 e os destaques de um universo livre. Ao final tecem-se considerações finais que saúdam personalidades que se destacaram no cenário aqui abordado.
Cardiovascular Risk Reduction in High-Risk Pediatric Patients: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association
Authors: de Ferranti Sarah D. , Steinberger Julia , Ameduri Rebecca , Baker Annette , Gooding Holly , Kelly Aaron S. , Mietus-Snyder Michele , Mitsnefes Mark M. , Peterson Amy L. , St-Pierre Julie , Urbina Elaine M. , Zachariah Justin P. , Zaidi Ali N. ,   On behalf of the American Heart Association Atherosclerosis, Hypertension and Obesity in the Young Committee of the Council on Cardiovascular Disease in the Young; Council on Cardiovascular Radiology and Intervention; Council on Cardiovascular and Stroke Nursing; Council on Clinical Cardiology; and Council on Quality of Care and Outcomes Research
Published: February 2019

This scientific statement presents considerations for clinical management regarding the assessment and risk reduction of select pediatric populations at high risk for premature cardiovascular disease, including acquired arteriosclerosis or atherosclerosis. For each topic, the evidence for accelerated acquired coronary artery disease and stroke in childhood and adolescence and the evidence for benefit of interventions in youth will be reviewed. Children and adolescents may be at higher risk for cardiovascular disease because of significant atherosclerotic or arteriosclerotic risk factors, high-risk conditions that promote atherosclerosis, or coronary artery or other cardiac or vascular abnormalities that make the individual more vulnerable to the adverse effects of traditional cardiovascular risk factors. Existing scientific statements and guidelines will be referenced when applicable, and suggestions for risk identification and reduction specific to each setting will be described. This statement is directed toward pediatric cardiologists, primary care providers, and subspecialists who provide clinical care for these young patients. The focus will be on management and justification for management, minimizing information on pathophysiology and epidemiology.
Targeted DNA Methylation Profiling of Human Cardiac Tissue Reveals Novel Epigenetic Traits and Gene Deregulation Across Different Heart Failure Patient Subtypes
Authors: Glezeva Nadezhda , Moran Bruce , Collier Patrick , Moravec Christine S. , Phelan Dermot , Donnellan Eoin , Russell-Hallinan Adam , O’Connor Darran P. , Gallagher William M. , Gallagher Joe , McDonald Kenneth , Ledwidge Mark , Baugh John , Das Sudipto , Watson Chris J.
Published: February 2019

Background:

Limited knowledge exists of the extent of epigenetic alterations, such as DNA methylation, in heart failure (HF). We conducted targeted DNA methylation sequencing to identify DNA methylation alterations in coding and noncoding RNA (ncRNA) across different etiological subtypes of HF.

Methods and Results:

A targeted bisulfite sequence capture sequencing platform was applied to DNA extracted from cardiac interventricular septal tissue of 30 male HF patients encompassing causes including hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy, ischemic cardiomyopathy, dilated cardiomyopathy, and 9 control patients with nonfailing hearts. We detected 62 678 differentially methylated regions in the studied HF cohort. By comparing each HF subgroup to the nonfailing control group, we identified 195 unique differentially methylated regions: 5 in hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy, 151 in dilated cardiomyopathy, and 55 in ischemic cardiomyopathy. These translated to 4 genes/1 ncRNA in hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy, 131 genes/17 ncRNA in dilated cardiomyopathy, and 51 genes/5 ncRNA in ischemic cardiomyopathy. Subsequent gene/ncRNA expression analysis was assessed using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and revealed 6 genes: 4 hypermethylated (
HEY2
,
MSR1
,
MYOM3
, and
COX17
), 2 hypomethylated (
CTGF
and
MMP2
); and 2 microRNA: 1 hypermethylated (miR-24-1), 1 hypomethylated (miR-155) with significantly upregulated or downregulated expression levels consistent with the direction of methylation in the particular HF subgroup.

Conclusions:

For the first time DNA methylation alterations and associated gene expression changes were identified in etiologically variant pathological HF tissue. The methylation-sensitive and disease-associated genes/ncRNA identified from this study represent a unique cohort of loci that demonstrate a plausible potential as a novel diagnostic and therapeutic target in HF and warrant further investigation.
TEAD1 (TEA Domain Transcription Factor 1) Promotes Smooth Muscle Cell Proliferation Through Upregulating SLC1A5 (Solute Carrier Family 1 Member 5)-Mediated Glutamine Uptake
Authors: Osman Islam , He Xiangqin , Liu Jinhua , Dong Kunzhe , Wen Tong , Zhang Fanzhi , Yu Luyi , Hu Guoqing , Xin Hongbo , Zhang Wei , Zhou Jiliang
Published: February 2019

Rationale:

TEAD (TEA domain transcription factor) 1—a major effector of the Hippo signaling pathway—acts as an oncoprotein in a variety of tumors. However, the function of TEAD1 in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) remains unclear.

Objective:

To assess the role of TEAD1 in vascular injury–induced smooth muscle proliferation and delineate the mechanisms underlying its action.

Methods and Results:

We found that TEAD1 expression is enhanced in mouse femoral artery after wire injury and correlates with the activation of mTORC1 (mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1) signaling in vivo. Using an inducible smooth muscle–specific

T
ead1

KO (knockout) mouse model, we found that specific deletion of

T
ead1

in adult VSMCs is sufficient to attenuate arterial injury–induced neointima formation due to inhibition of mTORC1 activation and VSMC proliferation. Furthermore, we found that TEAD1 plays a unique role in VSMCs, where it not only downregulates VSMC differentiation markers but also activates mTORC1 signaling, leading to enhanced VSMC proliferation. Using whole-transcriptome sequencing analysis, we identified

S
lc1a5

(solute carrier family 1 member 5)—a key glutamine transporter—as a novel TEAD1 target gene. SLC1A5 overexpression mimicked TEAD1 in promoting mTORC1 activation and VSMC proliferation. Moreover, depletion of SLC1A5 by silencing RNA or blocking SLC1A5-mediated glutamine uptake attenuated TEAD1-dependent mTORC1 activation and VSMC proliferation.

Conclusions:

Our study unravels a novel mechanism by which TEAD1 promotes VSMC proliferation via transcriptional induction of SLC1A5, thereby activating mTORC1 signaling and promoting neointima formation.
Postcolonial Curating: Insights from the Connexion Kin Performing Arts Festival
Authors: Leupin Rahel
Published: February 2019

Brussels-based theatre Koninklijke Vlaamse Schouwburg (KVS) relocated part of its program to Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of the Congo to collaborate with Kin artists and partners. Experimenting with a participatory curatorial approach, the KVS gradually moved from a model that showcased local artists to an interactive encounter in which sharing and discussing cultural processes became as important as the performances.
Elatostema perryi a new name for Elatostema humile L.M. Perry (Urticaceae)
Authors: RASINGAM L. , KARTHIGEYAN K.
Published: February 2019

The genus Elatostema J. R. Forst. & G. Forst. belongs to the tribe Elatostemateae Gaudich. (1830: 493) of the family Urticaceae. It is one of the largest genera in the family with c. 626 accepted names and mostly distributed from tropical to subtropical regions of Africa, Asia and Oceania (Tseng & Hu, 2015; Lin et al. 2018; Fu et al. 2019). Recently, Tseng et al. (2019) provided a new circumscription for the Elatostema S.l. based on the molecular phylogenetic studies and morphological characters. Perry (1951), while studying the New Guinean flora, described Elatostema humile L. M. Perry (1951: 378) from the Idenburg river of New Guinea. This is a later homonym of the Fijian species Elatostema humile A.C. Sm. (1942: 22) and so illegitimate according to article 53.1 of ICN (Turland et al. 2018). Therefore, a replacement name, Elatostema perryi is proposed here.
Pauropoda (Myriapoda) from Great Smoky Mountains National Park, U.S.A., with descriptions of four new species
Authors: SCHELLER ULF
Published: February 2019

As a part of the All-Taxa Biodiversity Inventory of Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee, North Carolina, U.S.A.) a collection of 192 specimens of Pauropoda has been studied. Eighteen species belonging to six genera in three families have been identified. Four of the species in Pauropodidae are new to science and described: Decapauropus arcuatilis n. sp., Stylopauropus plicatus n. sp., Donzelotauropus dividuus n. sp. and Donzelotauropus tenuitarsus n. sp. With the four new species the number of known species in GSMNP now stands at 49. A key is presented to the genera collected up to now in GSMNP.
A review of the monophyly and composition of the Bengaliinae with the description of a new genus and species, and new evidence for the presence of Melanomyinae in the Afrotropical Region (Diptera, Calliphoridae)
Authors: ROGNES KNUT
Published: February 2019

Mafikengia ciliata gen. nov., sp. nov. is described from South Africa and assigned to the subfamily Bengaliinae of the Calliphoridae. It is recognisable by its small size (4 mm), mostly yellow body, and a number of peculiar characteristics. The upper end of the bacilliform sclerite is attached to the medial side of the posterior portion of the surstylus on each side, a very unusual feature among calliphorids. This medial connection in Mafikengia is found in all genera of Bengaliinae, but is not present in any other calliphorid subfamily. The monophyly of the Bengaliinae is discussed, the subfamily is diagnosed, the component genera are listed, and a key to the world Bengaliinae is presented. The Bengaliinae are a very well circumscribed group within the Oestroidea, and it is suggested that the status of the subfamily might be raised to the rank of family. A cladistic analysis using NONA shows that Mafikengia is more closely related to the Oriental genus Termitoloemus Baranov, 1936 than to any other genus, and that the tribes Auchmeromyiini and Bengaliini may still be upheldas separate monophyletic groups, but with very low support. The Afrotropical nominal genus Neocordylobia Villeneuve, 1929 is reduced to a synonym of Cordylobia Grünberg, 1903, syn. nov. The nominal species Neocordylobia tauffliebi Zumpt, 1958 is transferred to the genus Tricyclea Wulp, 1885, as Tricyclea tauffliebi (Zumpt), comb. nov. A new interpretation of the male genitalia of Termitoloemus marshalli Baranov is presented. The male genitalia of the Afrotropical species Tricycleala maculipennis Villeneuve as well as the male and female genitalia of the Afrotropical genera Adichosina Villeneuve, Ochromelinda Villeneuve and Onesihoplisa Villeneuve are figured. The uterine first instar larva of the female of Ochromelinda thoracica Villeneuve is described and illustrated. The genera Adichosina, Ochromelinda, Onesihoplisa and Zernyiella Zumpt are assigned to the calliphorid subfamily Melanomyinae on the basis of the morphology of the female ovipositor, male aedeagus and first instar larva. The occurrence of this subfamily in the Afrotropical Region is established for the first time. A lectotype is designated for Zernyiella dubia Zumpt, 1956 to fix the interpretation of the name. Auchmeromyia kurahashi Lehrer, 2005 is established as a junior synonym of Auchmeromyia senegalensis Macquart, 1851, syn. nov. Auchmeromyia pattoniella Lehrer, 2005 is an unavailable name [no type designation] in the synonymy of Auchmeromyia bequaerti Roubaud, 1913. Cordylobia ebadiana Lehrer & Goergen, 2006 is established as a junior synonym of Cordylobia rodhaini Gedoelst, 1910, syn. nov. Pachychoeromyia kanemia Lehrer, 2011 is reduced to a synonym of Pachychoeromyia praegrandis Austen, 1910, syn. nov. The family-group name Coganomyinae of Peris & González-Mora, 2004 is established as a synonym of Bengaliinae Brauer & Bergenstamm, 1889, syn. nov.
The taxonomic position of the pelagic ‘staurozoan’ Tessera gemmaria as a ceriantharian larva
Authors: RODRIGUEZ CAROLINA S. , MARQUES ANTONIO C. , STAMPAR SÉRGIO N. , MORANDINI ANDRÉ C. , CHRISTIANSEN ERNESTO , GENZANO GABRIEL N. , MIANZAN HERMES W.
Published: February 2019

Based on 16 specimens from the Southwestern Atlantic coast (Argentina and Brazil) we reinterpret the taxonomic position of Tessera gemmaria Goy, 1979, a stauromedusa considered as incertae sedis for a long time. Using external morphology, histological preparations and molecular data (16S and COI) we conclude that T. gemmaria is an early stage of a cerinula, the long-lived planktonic larval stage of the Ceriantharia (Anthozoa).
First records of the genus Anacroneuria (Plecoptera: Perlidae) from Tocantins State, Brazil and description of a new species
Authors: RIPPEL MELLIS LAYRA SOARES , NOVAES MARCOS CARNEIRO , KROLOW TIAGO KÜTTER
Published: February 2019

Adults of Anacroneuria Klapálek (Plecoptera: Perlidae) from an unexplored area of the Tocantins State, Brazil were studied. As result, we describe A. zantedeschia n. sp and present new geographic records for the genus. Additionally, we also include comments for A. corae Bispo & Novaes, A. debilis (Pictet), A. marlieri Froehlich, A. minuta Klapálek, A. singularis Righi-Cavallaro & Lecci and A. otafroehlichi Righi-Cavallaro & Lecci.
New records of Chalcidoidea (Hymenoptera) from the Maltese Islands with an updated checklist
Authors: MIFSUD DAVID , ASKEW RICHARD R.
Published: February 2019

Thirty-three species of Chalcidoidea (Hymenoptera) are newly recorded from the Maltese Islands, of which, 19 include host data. An updated checklist for the 181 chalcidoid species recorded from Malta is also included, which belong to 17 families as follows: Agaonidae (3), Aphelinidae (21, 1 as new record), Azotidae (1), Chalcididae (8 species, 5 as new records), Encyrtidae (24, 1 as new record), Eulophidae (51, 16 are new records), Eupelmidae (9, 2 as new records), Eurytomidae (6, 1 as new record), Leucospidae (4), Megastigmidae (1), Mymaridae (2), Ormyridae (1), Perilampidae (1 new record), Pteromalidae (39, 5 as new records), Signiphoridae (2), Tetracampidae (1) and Torymidae (7, 1 as new record).
A Physically Based Climatology of the Occurrence and Intensification of Australian East Coast Lows
Authors: Cavicchia Leone , Pepler Acacia , Dowdy Andrew , Walsh Kevin
Published: February 2019

The subtropical part of the eastern Australian seaboard experiences intense cyclonic activity. The severe damage caused by the intense storms in the region, known as east coast lows (ECLs), has motivated a number of recent studies. Cyclones in this region appear to be driven by a combination of different (barotropic and baroclinic) formation mechanisms, consistent with the view emerging in the last decades that cyclones span a continuous spectrum of dynamical structures, with the barotropically driven tropical cyclone and the baroclinically driven extratropical cyclone being only the extremes of such a spectrum. In this work we revisit the climatology of cyclone occurrence in the subtropical east coast of Australia as seen in a global reanalysis, systematically applying classification criteria based on the cyclone vertical structure and thermal core. Moreover, we investigate the underlying processes driving the cyclone rapid intensification by means of an atmospheric limited-area energetics analysis. We show that ECLs have different spatial patterns according to the cyclone thermal structure, with the fraction of hybrid cyclones being larger toward the tropics and closer to the coast. Moreover, we find that explosively deepening cyclones in this region are driven by a different combination of processes with respect to the global case, with barotropic processes in the surrounding environment having a more dominant role in the energetics of cyclone rapid intensification. The findings of this work contribute to understanding the physical processes underlying the formation and intensification of Australian east coast lows and the associated coastal damage and risk.
How to Join the Club: Patterns of Embeddedness and the Addition of New Members to Interorganizational Collaborations
Authors: Zhang Lei , Guler Isin
Published: February 2019

Using U.S. venture capital investment data from 1985 to 2008 and qualitative interviews, we examine how group dynamics influence the growth of interorganizational collaborations through the addition of new members. We argue that group dynamics that develop among members in a collaboration, as well as between each member and prospective newcomers, influence which new members join existing collaborations. For prospective newcomers, we distinguish between their depth of embeddedness, the strength of a prospective newcomer’s past relationships with any incumbent member of the collaboration, and breadth of embeddedness, the proportion of incumbent members with which the newcomer has had prior ties. For incumbent members, we examine network faultlines, or subgroups in their collaboration, that may lead to power struggles. We find that when strong network faultlines exist, the depth and breadth of a prospective newcomer’s embeddedness will have different influences on its likelihood of joining the collaboration: A newcomer with greater depth of embeddedness with the collaboration may be perceived to influence power dynamics in the group, leading to lower likelihood of joining, whereas a newcomer with greater breadth may not suffer the same liability. We also find that newcomers with greater depth benefit from the status of their strongest tie in the collaboration, and newcomers with greater breadth are more desirable partners when they are more experienced. Overall, our results highlight the mechanisms of anticipated power distribution and mediation as overlooked concerns in member additions to collaborations, especially when there is conflict.
Food and physical literacy: Exploring an obesity prevention approach using formative research
Authors: Gibson Isla , Whitelaw Sandy , Topping Christopher , Kopela Joanna
Published: February 2019

Objective:

The objective of this research was to explore how accessible the concept of food and physical literacy is for health and well-being professionals, and assess its potential effect on service delivery.

Design:

Formative research and ‘concept testing’ with potential deliverers of food and physical literacy.

Setting:

Dumfries and Galloway, a rural region in South West Scotland, UK.

Method:

The research was undertaken after four workshops hosted by National Health Service (NHS) public health specialists, aiming to introduce and discuss the concept. An immediate post-event focus group and a short qualitative questionnaire were used to assess professionals’ initial perspectives on the concept, whether they thought the concept was applicable to their work, and what they might require by way of support if the concept was to be taken forward.

Results:

The findings illustrated the extent to which professionals feel that food and physical literacy is necessary, barriers to its implementation and ideal components for advancing work within this field.

Conclusion:

The concept of food and physical literacy has a sufficiently high level of resonance (proof of the concept) among informants to provide a foundation on which further work on its operationalisation can be based. The use of formative research and concept testing with potential service deliverers was able to identify areas to be considered during developmental stages, increasing the likelihood that the end result will be accepted by the professionals expected to utilise it. Thus, the benefits of an inclusive approach to service development were also highlighted.
Book Review: Aakash Singh Rathore and Rimina Mohapatra, Hegel’s India: A Reinterpretation, with Texts
Authors: Fritzman J. M.
Published: February 2019

Aakash Singh Rathore and Rimina Mohapatra, Hegel’s India: A Reinterpretation, with Texts, New Delhi: Oxford University Press, 2017, 310 pp.
Book Review: Aparajith Ramnath, The Birth of an Indian Profession: Engineers, Industry, and the State, 1900–1947
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Aparajita
Published: February 2019

Aparajith Ramnath, The Birth of an Indian Profession: Engineers, Industry, and the State, 1900–1947, New Delhi: Oxford University Press, 2017, 266 pp.
Book Review: Deepak Kumar and Raj Sekhar Basu, eds, Medical Encounters in British India; Samiksha Sehrawat, Colonial Medical Care in North India: Gender State and Society c. 1840–1920; Poonam Bala, ed., Contesting Colonial Authority: Medicine and Indigenous Responses in Nineteenth and Twentieth Century India; and Madhuri Sharma, Indigenous and Western Medicine in Colonial India
Authors: Madhwi
Published: February 2019

Deepak Kumar and Raj Sekhar Basu, eds, Medical Encounters in British India, New Delhi: Oxford University Press, 2013, 329 pp.; Samiksha Sehrawat, Colonial Medical Care in North India: Gender State and Society c. 1840–1920, New Delhi: Oxford University Press, 2013, 292 pp.; Poonam Bala, ed., Contesting Colonial Authority: Medicine and Indigenous Responses in Nineteenth and Twentieth Century India, Delhi: Primus Books, 2016, 158 pp.; and Madhuri Sharma, Indigenous and Western Medicine in Colonial India, Delhi: Foundation Books, 2012, 177 pp.
Book Review: Manjil Hazarika, Prehistory and Archaeology of Northeast India: Multidisciplinary Investigation in an Archaeological Terra Incognita
Authors: Datta Sanjukta
Published: February 2019

Manjil Hazarika, Prehistory and Archaeology of Northeast India: Multidisciplinary Investigation in an Archaeological Terra Incognita, New Delhi: Oxford University Press, 2017, 325 pp.
Book Review: Priya Maholay-Jaradi, Fashioning a National Art: Baroda’s Royal Collection and Art Institutions (1875–1924)
Authors: Guha Sudeshna
Published: February 2019

Priya Maholay-Jaradi, Fashioning a National Art: Baroda’s Royal Collection and Art Institutions (1875–1924), New Delhi: Oxford University Press, 2016, 304 pp.
Rediscovering the middle school mission
Authors: Weilbacher Gary
Published: February 2019

Middle schools were designed to promote exploration in the curriculum in a way that is appropriate for young adolescents. However, this vision has not been fully embraced, and many middle schools still function as junior versions of high school. Gary Weilbacher explores the history of the middle school movement and describes how the interdisciplinary approaches to curriculum found in the STEM, STEAM, and STREAM movements offer an opportunity for middle schools to recover their original vision. In such schools, teachers would work in interdisciplinary teams to develop curricula that enable students to seek answers to questions that they consider important.
What is English? Who decides? An interview with Lisa Scherff
Authors: Heller Rafael
Published: February 2019

In this month’s interview, Kappan’s editor talks with high school English teacher and researcher Lisa Scherff about the ongoing struggle over who gets to define the English language arts curriculum. Dating back to the creation of the subject area, more than a century ago, classroom teachers have advocated for a varied course of study that helps students use language more effectively across a range of contexts. However, explains Scherff, they have always had to contend with college professors, textbook publishers, school boards, and others who’ve sought to constrain the curriculum.
Leadership: It takes a district
Authors: Starr Joshua P.
Published: February 2019

District superintendents must handle a variety of issues that are not directly related to instruction. Because the job is so complex, a strong central office staff is crucial. Joshua Starr considers how leaders can build a team that is able to manage logistical issues while staying true to the district vision of strengthening teaching, learning, and equity.
Washington View: No hope from Betsy DeVos
Authors: Ferguson Maria
Published: February 2019

Maria Ferguson considers the problems with Betsy DeVos’ efforts to roll back regulations of for-profit colleges and universities and dismantle civil rights protections for students. In both cases, the moves fly in the face of evidence and demonstrate a desire to deconstruct efforts to fully protect students.
Backtalk: Don’t eliminate homework. Make it more effective
Authors: Heffernan Neil
Published: February 2019

Without teacher or parent support, students often struggle alone with their homework, making the work both frustrating and ineffective for learning. Neil Heffernan suggests that schools use technology to provide instant feedback so students are able to learn immediately from their mistakes. Heffernan shares some guidelines for choosing appropriate programs to assist students with their homework.
Differences in citizen perceptions of interactions with police officers
Authors: Clark Nick , Werling Robert , Chintakrindi Sriram , Randol Blake
Published: February 2019

The topic of this study is how different demographics and crime rates in police beats differ in their perceptions of interactions with police officers. The research questions for this study are: ‘Do citizens of a mid-sized city in California differ in their perceptions of interactions with police based on demographic?’ and ‘Do differences in neighbourhood crime rates affect different perceptions of the police?’ The participants in this study were 307 residents from households of an anonymous city in California, chosen through stratified random sampling. Mailed surveys were sent out to 1,500 households, with canvassing done several months later to increase response rate. The results of the study were determined using frequency distributions to determine the descriptive statistics of the study, Kruskal–Wallis H tests and Mann–Whitney U tests for determining differences in predictor variable groups, and crosstabs and Spearman’s Rho to determine any correlations between the predictor and outcome variables. The results show that, outside two weak correlations, demographics and crime rates do not cause differences in people’s perceptions of interactions with the police.
Assessing Discrimination in Correspondence Studies
Authors: Rodríguez Menés Jorge , Rovira Marti
Published: February 2019

Correspondence studies are popular tools for assessing discrimination against minorities, for example, in the labor market. Typically, two fake Curriculum Vitae (CVs) are sent to multiple job openings. The CVs are equivalent except for a mark identifying the disadvantaged. While it is straightforward to establish discrimination from minorities’ lower response rates, it is often unclear what its source may be. Discrimination may result as much from employers’ aversion toward a minority, as from perceptions that members have lower or more dispersed abilities that are unstandardizable in a CV. We refine existing methodologies to propose a wider-scope method capable of disentangling these three sources of discrimination and establish its face validity applying it to a correspondence study aimed at assessing labor market discrimination against ex-convicts in a local market.
Received and perceived support subscales of the Berlin Social Support Scales in women diagnosed with breast cancer attending the breast clinic at Tygerberg hospital: structure and correlates
Authors: Roomaney Rizwana , Kagee Ashraf , Knoll Nina
Published: February 2019

Research in the field of psycho-oncology in South Africa is increasing, and there is a need for validated measures that assess factors associated with cancer, such as social support. The Berlin Social Support Scales are a battery of instruments that measure various types and functions of social support. The measure was originally developed for use among adult cancer patients, and their partners but has also been used among other clinical populations and healthy adults. We investigated the psychometric properties of the English version of the perceived and received sub-scales, Berlin Social Support Scales. Our sample included South African women ( N = 201) who were diagnosed with breast cancer and receiving treatment at a public health care facility. We administered several measures, including a demographic questionnaire, the Berlin Social Support subscales, the Duke-UNC Functional Social Support Questionnaire, and The Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy to participants. Validity and reliability analyses were conducted. Factor analysis resulted in the retention of 17 items that clustered on two factors, namely received support and perceived support. The 17-item version of the Berlin Social Support Scale demonstrated strong reliability and validity in the sample. The two subscales are quick to administer, easy to interpret, and are a reliable measure of social support among breast cancer patients in South Africa.
Teaching Research Psychology in South Africa: reflections by programme coordinators
Authors: Fynn Angelo , van der Walt Hugo Denton
Published: February 2019

This article explores the experiences of Master’s programme coordinators in Research Psychology with the purpose of gaining an understanding of the planning and implementation of programmes that are directed at training Research Psychology students. The practical significance of the study was to investigate the course curricula of Research Psychology programmes within the South African context to grasp an understanding of the course structure and the challenges that accompany curriculum development. This article aims to elaborate on underlying tensions and considerations that programme coordinators encounter in structuring and implementing training for Master’s programmes that lead to registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa. Six of the eight programmes that lead to registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa were included in this study. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and analysed using qualitative content analysis. The reflections by the programme coordinators showed a shared pedagogical philosophy of active learning in which students are expected to take ownership of their learning and to participate actively in shaping and constructing the learning process. Reflections on the Research Psychology programmes revealed seven broad content areas concerned with the development of curricula in Research Psychology, namely applied research, ethics, foundational concepts and skills, language and report writing, and project management and micro-skills development within qualitative and quantitative methodological approaches. Programme coordinators also expressed the tensions inherent in attempts to establish neutral ground between the demands of the discipline and the demands of the employers.
An Ethical and Legal Analysis of Ovascience – A Publicly Traded Fertility Company and its Lead Product AUGMENT
Authors: Lee Katarina
Published: February 2019

In May 2015, the first baby created through an emerging ova technology called AUGMENT, was born in Canada.1 Developed by OvaScience, AUGMENT essentially introduces mitochondria sourced from the genetic mother into her own ovum in order to revitalize the ovum.2 This technology is controversial because OvaScience is a publicly traded company, and it is driven by short-term results, such as earnings;3 and (2) OvaScience did not complete adequate clinical trials before offering AUGMENT to the public.4 Moreover, in its 2014 annual report, OvaScience declared that it was intentionally offering its products in countries where clinical trials are not required.5 The lack of adequate clinical trials is the primary reason underlying the Food and Drug Administration's (“FDA”) prohibition of the technology in the United States.6 Finally, as of August 2018, OvaScience has shifted its research away from AUGMENT, and it only offers it through an “exclusive license to IVF Japan Group in Japan.”7
Exclusive Drug Labeling Rights as a New Incentive for Contribution to a Communal Biomarker Resource
Authors: Shore David
Published: February 2019

Biomarkers are an important tool in modern drug development. The FDA has posited that increased use of biomarkers in clinical trials can accelerate pharmaceutical industry productivity, ushering new drugs to market. Accordingly, the FDA has created two pathways for evaluation of biomarker utility. Biomarkers incorporated into clinical trials, the traditional pathway, are effectively private to a therapeutic sponsor and to the scope of the trial. By contrast, in Biomarker Qualification (“BQ”), the second pathway, a biomarker is certified as a publicly available tool. The FDA has hoped that academic, non-profit, and industry stakeholders would work together in consortia to qualify biomarkers, cumulatively generating a common resource of broad utility. In practice, utilization of Biomarker Qualification has been paltry. Incentives for BQ that align with the interests of industry resource holders are necessary to fuel increased utilization of biomarkers in clinical trials and create the communal biomarker toolkit envisioned by the FDA. A blanket extension of exclusivity for any drug successfully paired with a companion biomarker would diminish public access to medicine by encouraging spurious biomarkers and correspondingly narrowed clinical trials. As a measured alternative, an exclusive right to include a qualified companion biomarker on an FDA drug label would balance public access externalities. This exclusivity would waylay label approval, and thus marketability, of later drugs relying on the qualified biomarker for clinical safety or efficacy. Accordingly, sponsors would find no incentive to portage an ineffective or unnecessary biomarker through clinical trials, as there would be no benefit to securing exclusive rights in a tool others saw no value in using.
KTP-laser–Assisted Endoscopic Management of Glomus Tympanicum Tumors: A Case Series
Authors: Noel Julia E. , Sajjadi Hamed
Published: February 2019

Endoscopic technology is widely used in rhinology and anterior skull base surgery, but it has been less quickly incorporated into otologic practice. The design of the instrumentation forces surgeons to work one-handed and limits depth perception. Nevertheless, endoscopy also offers wide fields of view and access to spaces that are typically difficult to visualize. Its advantages have broadened the type and extent of operations that can be performed via the ear canal. We describe a method of endoscopic resection of glomus tympanicum tumors in 5 adults who had undergone endoscopic or endoscopyassisted resection. A successful resection was achieved in all patients—exclusively via the ear canal in 4 of them. A KTP laser was used to address the tumor's vascular supply. Attachment of a neonatal feeding tube to the endoscope for use as a suction catheter obviated the need to repeatedly switch instruments while using the laser. At a minimum of 12 months of follow-up, all patients were free of recurrence. Postoperative audiometry detected no significant adverse hearing outcomes in any patient. We conclude that the minimally invasive endoscopic transcanal approach is a feasible technique for addressing middle ear tumors. We have also developed a method that allows surgeons constant use of the KTP laser to resect a glomus tympanicum tumor.
Thiamin deficiency in low- and middle-income countries: Disorders, prevalences, previous interventions and current recommendations
Authors: Johnson Casey R , Fischer Philip R , Thacher Thomas D , Topazian Mark D , Bourassa Megan W , Combs Gerald F
Published: February 2019

Background:

Thiamin deficiency is a major public health concern in several low- and middle-income countries (LMICs)—current attention to the problem is lacking.

Aim:

This review discusses prevalence of thiamin insufficiency and thiamin-deficiency disorders (TDDs) in LMICs, outlines programmatic experience with thiamin interventions, and offers recommendations to improve public-health and research attention to thiamin in LMICs.

Discussion:

Thiamin insufficiency, i.e. low-blood-thiamin status, is endemic among several Southeast Asian countries: Cambodia (70–100% of infants and 27–100% of reproductive-age women); Laos (13% of hospitalized infants); Thailand (16–25% of children and 30% of elderly adults). Thiamin deficiency accounts for up to 45% of under-5 deaths in Cambodia, 34% of infant deaths in Laos, and 17% of infant deaths in Myanmar. Deficiency also exists in Africa, Asia, and the Americas, but these instances have typically been isolated. Exclusively breastfed infants of thiamin-deficient mothers are at highest risk for TDD and related death. Intervention strategies that have been employed to combat thiamin deficiency include food processing, fortification, supplementation, dietary diversification, and dietary behaviors, all of which have shown varying levels of effectiveness.

Conclusions:

We recommend universal thiamin-fortification of context-specific staple-foods in LMICs as a promising solution, as well as thiamin supplementation, particularly for pregnant and lactating women. Food processing regulations, dietary diversification, and modification of dietary behaviors to increase consumption of thiamin-rich foods may provide benefits in some circumstances, especially in countries without universal fortification programs or in populations dependent on food aid.
Protecting Agency Judges in an Age of Politicization: Evaluating Judicial Independence and Decisional Confidence in Administrative Adjudications
Authors: Chand Daniel E.
Published: February 2019

Administrative judges, who serve in state and federal agencies, as opposed to a separate branch of government, are an understudied, and occasionally controversial, type of public administrator. Many who find themselves in administrative courts protest the agency judge’s lack of independence. According to critics, because agency judges are members of—and often evaluated by—the very agency with a vested interest in the case, they are subject to political influence and cannot possibly be an impartial arbitrator. In the United States, various approaches to addressing this concern have been employed. At the federal level, Congress grants some administrative judges statutory protections from agency evaluation. Most states have utilized an organizational independence approach by placing administrative judges in separate agencies dedicated to administrative adjudications. Via a national survey returned by 250 agency judges, this study compares perceptions of judicial independence and decisional confidence. It finds that administrative judges serving in independent agencies (known as central panels) report higher levels of judicial independence and more confidence their rulings will not be overturned. The theoretical implications are significant for public administration and administrative law scholars, especially those concerned about the politicization of administrative duties.