bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Willingness to Pay for Insured Loans in Northern Ghana
Authors: Gallenstein Richard A. , Mishra Khushbu , Sam Abdoul G. , Miranda Mario J.
Published: February 2019

Index insurance has been heralded as a potential solution to risk management problems faced by smallholder farmers in developing countries. Despite its potential, demand for standalone index insurance contracts has remained low in early field trials. We investigate the willingness to pay for drought index insurance‐backed loans in northern Ghana using contingent valuation. We find that index insurance lowers overall demand for agricultural loans. We also compare micro‐level index insurance, provided directly to farmers, with meso‐level insurance, provided to the credit agency and find that farmers appear to prefer micro‐level insurance. Finally, farmers are willing to pay to avoid basis risk.
Purification, Characterization, and Bioactivities of Polyphenols from Platycladus orientalis (L.) Franco
Authors: Ren Jiaoyan , Liao Linfeng , Shang Shuaiming , Zheng Yamei , Sha Wanqian , Yuan Erdong
Published: February 2019

The polyphenols (PF) from Platycladus Orientalis (L.) Franco leaves were purified by using 10 different macroporous adsorption resins. HPD‐722 resin showed the best adsorption and desorption capacities. The static and dynamic adsorption and desorption of PF on HPD‐722 resin were studied and the total polyphenols were separated into two fractions, PF‐A and PF‐B. PF‐A and PF‐B demonstrated similar scavenging activity of free radical (DPPH, ABTS, hydroxyl radical, superoxide anion). The scavenging activity of PF‐A and PF‐B on hydroxyl radical and superoxide anion radical reached the equal levels of vitamin C and gallic acid. The IC50 value of PF‐A for hydroxyl radical scavenging activity and superoxide anion radical scavenging activity were 0.50 and 0.56 mg/mL, while those of PF‐B were 0.61 and 0.64 mg/mL. PF‐A and PF‐B could reduce the overproduction of inflammatory cytokines (TNF‐α, Pro‐IL‐1β, and IL‐6) induced by lipopolysaccharide and their protein expression in THP‐1 cells. PF‐B exhibited better anti‐inflammatory effect than PF‐A in the dosage range of 1.0–4.0 µg/mL. Structural identification of PF‐A and PF‐B were conducted by HPLC‐MS/MS. Ten polyphenol compounds were identified in PF‐A and PF‐B, respectively, by HPLC‐MS/MS, including quercetin, apigenin, myricetin, and so on. Molecular docking studies indicated that apigenin, myricetin, luteolin, kaempferol, and quercetin effectively inhibit xanthine oxidase by forming hydrogen bonds with the amino acid residues and binding to the active site of the enzyme. The results might supply useful information for better understanding the chemical structure, antioxidant, and anti‐inflammatory activities of Platycladuso (L.) Franco leaves polyphenols.

Practical Application

This study demonstrated that polyphenols from P. orientalis (L.) Franco leaves have the potential applications as functional food ingredient for the prevention and treatment of gout and inflammation, hyperuricemia and gout.
Impact of thoracic radiation therapy after chemotherapy on survival in extensive‐stage small cell lung cancer: A propensity score‐matched analysis
Authors: Deng Lei , Zhou ZongMei , Xiao ZeFen , Chen DongFu , Feng QinFu , Liang Jun , Lv JiMa , Wang XiaoZhen , Bi Nan , Wang Xin , Zhang Tao , Wang WenQing , Wang LvHua
Published: February 2019

Background

The role of thoracic radiation therapy (TRT) after chemotherapy (CHT) in extensive‐stage small cell lung cancer (ES‐SCLC) has not been well defined. We investigated whether intensity‐modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) improves outcomes in ES‐SCLC after CHT compared to CHT alone.

Methods

A total of 292 patients who reached a complete response (CR), partial response (PR), or stable disease (SD) after CHT were assigned into groups: CHT + TRT and CHT alone. Propensity score matching was used to balance patient groups (n = 72 each).

Results

The five‐year overall survival (OS: 12.3% vs. 3.6%; P < 0.001) and progression‐free survival (PFS: 3.2% vs. 1.7%; P = 0.006) rates were significantly higher in the CHT + TRT group. This data was confirmed in the matched samples (5‐year OS: 10.5% vs. 1.6%, P < 0.001; PFS: 4.3% vs. 0.0%, P = 0.023). The overall (P = 0.002) and locoregional (P < 0.001) recurrence rates in the CHT + TRT group were significantly lower than in the CHT group. Univariate analysis showed that response evaluation after CHT and TRT were significant prognostic factors of OS. Multivariate analyses revealed that N Stage 0–1 (P = 0.02), > 6 cycles of CHT (P = 0.042), CR + PR after CHT (P < 0.001), and TRT (P < 0.001) were independently associated with longer OS compared to CHT alone.

Conclusion

TRT using IMRT is strongly correlated with improved OS and PFS in ES‐SCLC patients reaching CR, PR or SD after CHT. A multicenter, randomized phase III clinical trial is needed to confirm these findings.
Hunting for What Works: Adolescents in Addiction Treatment
Authors: Silvers Jennifer A. , Squeglia Lindsay M. , Rømer Thomsen Kristine , Hudson Karen A. , Feldstein Ewing Sarah W.
Published: February 2019

Although adolescents are developmentally distinct from adults, they often receive addiction treatment based on adult models. This is problematic because adolescents face significantly different conditions in addiction treatment, including distinct basic biological and neurodevelopmental stages, unique sociodevelopmental concerns, distinctive addiction trajectories, and, in turn, disparate treatment goals and outcomes. In sum, it can be difficult for even savvy clinicians to know how to approach addiction treatment with this important age group. In an effort to help clinicians and researchers consider substance use via a neurodevelopmental lens, we approached this review with 4 goals: (i) characterize the prevalence, and related health and safety implications of substance use within this age group; (ii) identify the nature of the adolescent brain, including characteristic features of this phase of neurodevelopment relevant to adolescent substance use treatment; (iii) provide an overview of current adolescent addiction interventions and avenues to improve clinical treatment and clinical research efforts for adolescents; and (iv) examine the intersection between the nature of the developing brain and adolescent substance use, and utilize that information to inform alternative routes and directions for substance use treatment in this critical age group. This review concludes by offering a novel neurodevelopmental model and framework to examine substance use interventions, along with a series of recommendations to optimize adolescent substance use treatment and clinical research.
Expression of phospholipase PLC Zeta in human spermatozoa: impact of cryopreservation
Authors: Moreau J. , Fargeon S. , Gatimel N. , Parinaud J. , Léandri R. D.
Published: February 2019

Background

Cryopreservation is used for infertility treatment and for fertility preservation. The results of the use of frozen spermatozoa for ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology) are lower than those of fresh spermatozoa. The phospholipase C Zeta (PLCζ) protein is involved in oocyte activation.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to compare the percentage of spermatozoa expressing phospholipase C Zeta protein before and after a frozen‐thawing cycle.

Materials and methods

Samples were provided after at least 2 days of sexual abstinence. A part of the fresh ejaculate (200 μL) was recovered for the study. Fifty microliters was necessary to carry out the technique before freezing. The remaining 150 μl was frozen according to a slow manual freezing technique. The samples were treated based on the procedure described by Yelumalai et al. (Fertil. Steril., 104, 2015, 561‐568.e4) and Grasa et al. (Hum. Reprod. Oxf. Engl. 23, 2008, 2513–2522).

Results

Freezing was associated with a decrease in the percentage of spermatozoa exhibiting PLCζ (44 ± 22% before vs 31 ± 19% after, p < 0.05). The percentage of spermatozoa exhibiting PLCζ at post‐acrosomal position was significantly greater before freezing (8% vs 5%, p < 0.05). There was no significant difference for the percentage of spermatozoa exhibiting PLCζ at equatorial position (15% before freezing versus 12% after thawing, NS).

Discussion

The results of the present study show that the presence of PLCζ on spermatozoa is decreased after freezing–thawing procedures. PLCζ is a soluble cytosolic protein (Nomikos et al., ), so it can be lost during cryopreservation. These membrane alterations are probably multifactorial.

Conclusion

Our results, in agreement with other studies, raise the hypothesis that cryopreservation reduces spermatic PLCζ expression.
Exploring motivations, attitudes and experiences of oocyte donors: A qualitative study
Authors: Borgstrøm Maria Buhl , Nygaard Siv S. , Danielsen Anne K. , Kesmodel Ulrik S.
Published: February 2019

Introduction

The demand for fertility treatment with donated oocytes is increasing in many European countries. In order to offer oocyte donors an attractive treatment, it is necessary to understand the views of the donors. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore how women who donate oocytes describe their motives and attitudes towards oocyte donation, as well as their experiences with oocyte donation.

Material and methods

A qualitative study based on individual face‐to‐face interviews with 12 oocyte donors with a donor identity as either anonymous or open. Oocyte donors who had donated oocytes at least once were recruited from the fertility clinic at Herlev University Hospital, Denmark. Data were collected using a piloted, semi‐structured interview guide and were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. The analysis was handled in NVIVO 11 PRO.

Results

The analysis resulted in three themes: (1) helping others, (2) the treatment, and (3) being an oocyte donor. The financial compensation had varying degrees of importance for the oocyte donors but was always secondary to the desire to help others. All participants were interested in knowing whether their donation had resulted in pregnancy or birth of a child. Many donors had not gained a full understanding of the realistic outcomes of their donation.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that oocyte donors are mainly motivated by altruism, and financial compensation was found to be a secondary motive. Further, political awareness could be directed toward particularly open donors and the need to provide information about the outcome of their donation. Finally, it seems that future oocyte donors, in a treatment with a high need for information, can benefit from clinicians giving more exact information in relation to the probability of the birth of a donor child.
Sonographic lower uterine segment thickness after prior cesarean section to predict uterine rupture: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Swift Brenna E. , Shah Prakesh S. , Farine Dan
Published: February 2019

Introduction

Cesarean section rates are increasing with a decrease in the rate of trial of labor after cesarean section. The objective of this study was to systematically review the predictive characteristics of sonographic measurement of lower uterine segment thickness for uterine rupture during labor.

Material and methods

The review was carried out in agreement with PRISMA and SEDATE guidelines. MEDLINE, EMBASE, ClinicalTrials.gov and Cochrane Library were searched from 1990 until November 2018. Quality of included studies was assessed using the QUADAS‐2 tool. Data were extracted to construct 2 × 2 tables from each study comparing ultrasound measurement with uterine defect at time of delivery. The data were plotted as a summary receiver‐operating characteristic (SROC) curve using the hierarchical SROC model.

Results

Twenty‐eight observational cohort studies met the selection criteria for inclusion. Sonographic lower uterine segment thickness was measured at a gestational age of 36‐40 weeks in women with a previous cesarean section. The risk of bias and concerns regarding applicability were low among most studies. The sonographic measurement was correlated with either delivery outcome or lower uterine segment thickness at the time of repeat cesarean section. The cut‐off value for lower uterine segment thickness ranged from 1.5 to 4.05 mm across all studies. An association between thin lower uterine segment measurement and uterine dehiscence and uterine rupture was shown in 27 and four studies, respectively. Nineteen studies were included in a meta‐analysis with a subgroup analysis by ultrasound methodology. In the subgroup using the ultrasound methodology associated with uterine rupture, the cut‐off value is more precise (2.0‐3.65 mm) among these 12 studies. There were 18 cases (1.0%) of uterine rupture, 120 (6.6%) of uterine dehiscence and 1674 (92.4%) women with no uterine defect. The SROC curve showed a sensitivity of 0.88 (95% CI 0.83‐0.92) and specificity of 0.77 (95% CI 0.70‐0.83). The negative likelihood ratio was 0.11 (95% CI 0.08‐0.16) and the diagnostic odds ratio was 34.0 (95% CI 18.2‐63.5).

Conclusions

Lower uterine segment thickness >3.65 mm, measured using a standardized ultrasound technique, is associated with a lower likelihood of uterine rupture.
Should progesterone and estrogen receptors be assessed for predicting the response to conservative treatment of endometrial hyperplasia and cancer? A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Raffone Antonio , Travaglino Antonio , Saccone Gabriele , Mollo Antonio , De Placido Giuseppe , Insabato Luigi , Zullo Fulvio
Published: February 2019

Introduction

Progestins are used as conservative treatment of endometrial hyperplasia (EH) and early endometrial cancer (EEC). We aimed to assess whether immunohistochemical expression of estrogens and progesterone receptors (ER and PR) predicts the treatment response.

Material and methods

Electronic databases were searched for studies assessing ER and PR expression in EH and EEC treated with progestins. Relative risk for poor response, sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic odds ratio positive and negative likelihood ratios (LR+ and LR−) and area under the curve (AUC) on summary receiver operating characteristic curve were calculated. Subgroup analyses were based on administration route (oral progestin or levonorgestrel‐intrauterine device) and on histological diagnosis (atypical EH/EEC or non‐atypical EH). Only high accuracy (AUC > 0.9; LR+ >10; LR− <0.1) was considered determining for the clinical practice.

Results

Thirteen studies with 635 patients were included in the systematic review. Studies at high risk of bias were excluded from the meta‐analysis. Negative ER expression did not significantly predict poor response (P = 0.16), with low predictive accuracy (AUC = 0.637). Negative PR significantly predicted poor response (P = 0.01), with moderate accuracy (AUC = .806). In the oral progestin subgroup, neither ER (P = 0.55) nor PR (P = 0.18) had significant predictive value. In the levonorgestrel‐intrauterine device subgroup, both ER (P < 0.0001) and PR (P = 0.02) were significantly predictive of good response, although the accuracy was suboptimal (LR+ 6.02 and 2.48, respectively; LR− 0.59 and 0.55, respectively). The atypical EH/EEC subgroup showed non‐significant results. Data about non‐atypical EH were not extractable.

Conclusions

ER and PR expressions are significantly predictive of response in EH and EEC treated with a levonorgestrel‐intrauterine device but not with oral progestins. However, their accuracy is insufficient to be determining in the clinical practice.
A prospective study on single tooth reconstructions using parallel walled implants with internal connection (NobelParallel CC) and abutments with angulated screw channels (ASC)
Authors: Friberg Bertil , Ahmadzai Mirwais
Published: February 2019

Background

A new implant design was launched in 2015 with internal connection allowing for placement of abutments with angulated screw channels. Such devices may eliminate the use of nonauthentic components, which may present with poor fit and jeopardize the construction. It may also eliminate the use of cemented single‐crowns with the risk for excessive cement to cause marginal bone destruction.

Purpose

To evaluate the outcome of a straight‐walled implant with conical connection (NobelParallel CC), when used in the single‐tooth situation of the anterior maxilla. Further, to elucidate the need for an abutment with angulated screw channel (ASC).

Materials and Methods

Patients referred for both implant surgery and prosthetics to rehabilitate missing single maxillary incisors/canines. Implants were placed according to a two‐staged surgical procedure. Patients were followed up to delivery of prosthetic crowns with the purpose to extend the study up to 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year follow up. Registrations of implant survival, marginal bone level measurements, hard/soft tissue complications, and the incidence of ASC to avoid the use of nonauthentic components or crown cementation, were performed at the end of the study.

Results

A total of 47 patients were included in the current investigation. One patient deceased during the study period. In all 51 implants were inserted, of which 14 implant sites were bone augmented either prior to implant placement or in connection with the insertion procedure. Further, four remaining teeth were extracted in the region of interest during implant placement. One implant presented with infection and mobility at abutment connection and was consequently removed. Implant survival rate was 98.0%. Mean marginal bone level at crown placement was 0.41 mm (SD = 0.45 mm) and the corresponding measurements at 1 year for 22 implants revealed a marginal bone resorption of 0.41 mm (SD = 0.36 mm). Abutments with angulated screw channels were used in 42/49 sites.

Conclusion

The NobelParallel CC implant seemed to work well together with the ASC abutment. No major complications were noted.
T lymphocyte phenotype of contact‐allergic patients: experience with nickel and p‐phenylenediamine
Authors: Wicks Kate , Stretton Clare , Popple Amy , Beresford Lorna , Williams Jason , Maxwell Gavin , Gosling John Paul , Kimber Ian , Dearman Rebecca J.
Published: February 2019

Background

There is considerable interest in understanding the immunological variables that have the greatest influence on the effectiveness of sensitization by contact allergens, particularly in the context of developing new paradigms for risk assessment of novel compounds.

Objectives

To examine the relationship between patch test score for three different contact allergens and the characteristics of T cell responses.

Methods

A total of 192 patients with confirmed nickel, p‐phenylenediamine (PPD) or methylisothiazolinone (MI) allergy were recruited from the Contact Dermatitis Investigation Unit at Salford Royal Hospital. Severity of allergy was scored by the use of patch testing, peripheral blood lymphocytes were characterized for T cell phenotype by flow cytometry, and proliferative activity was characterized by radiolabelled thymidine incorporation. Comparisons were drawn with buffy coat samples from healthy volunteers.

Results

Patch test positivity for nickel, PPD and MI was associated with changes in the phenotype of peripheral blood T cells: increases in naïve cells, decreases in regulatory T cell frequency and the CD4+/CD8hi ratio, and increased expression of the skin‐homing marker cutaneous lymphocyte antigen (CLA), particularly for those patients with a +++ patch test score.

Conclusions

This increased understanding of the characteristics of the T cell responses to contact allergens may provide parameters with which to better measure health risks associated with skin sensitization.
Contact allergy and allergic contact dermatitis caused by lavender: A retrospective study from an Australian clinic
Authors: Bingham Linda J. , Tam Mei M. , Palmer Amanda M. , Cahill Jennifer L. , Nixon Rosemary L.
Published: February 2019

Background

Lavender is commonly used in aromatherapy and in a broad range of personal and household products. It has been identified as a contact sensitizer, and has been reported to cause allergic contact dermatitis (ACD).

Objectives

To report our experience with contact allergy and ACD caused by lavender, and to raise awareness of lavender as a potential contact allergen.

Method

A retrospective database review was performed of patients attending patch testing clinics at the Skin and Cancer Foundation, Victoria, Australia, from January 1, 1993 to December 31, 2017.

Results

Among the 2178 patients patch tested with lavender over this period, a total of 58 positive reactions were recorded in 49 individuals, giving a positive patch test prevalence for patients tested with lavender of 2.2%. Twenty‐seven patients were diagnosed with ACD. The most common sources of exposure to lavender were personal care products and essential oils. Of the patients with ACD, 74% were tested with lavender absolute, with positive results in 90% of cases.

Conclusion

Lavender is an uncommon cause of ACD but is important to consider, given the potential for exposure through the use of personal care items and essential oils.
Conservation or politics? Australia's target to kill 2 million cats
Authors: Doherty Tim S. , Driscoll Don A. , Nimmo Dale G. , Ritchie Euan G. , Spencer Ricky‐John
Published: February 2019

The Australian Government's 5‐year Threatened Species Strategy contains four priority action areas and associated targets. Here, we argue that the well‐publicized target to cull 2 million feral cats has a weak scientific basis because: (1) reliable estimates of Australia's cat population size did not exist when the target was set; (2) it is extremely difficult to measure progress (numbers of cats killed) in an accurate, reliable way; and, most importantly, (3) the cull target is not explicitly linked to direct conservation outcomes (e.g., measured increases in threatened species populations). These limitations mean that the cull target fails to meet what would be considered best practice for pest management. The focus on killing cats runs the risk of distracting attention away from other threats to biodiversity, most prominent of which is widespread, ongoing habitat loss, which has been largely overlooked in the Threatened Species Strategy. The culling target is a highly visible symbol of a broader campaign around feral cat research and management in Australia, rather than a direct indicator of conservation action and success. We are concerned that progress toward the 2 million target could be misinterpreted as progress toward conserving threatened species, when the link between the two is not clear.
Dynamics of transcriptional enhancers and chromosome topology in gene regulation
Authors: Yokoshi Moe , Fukaya Takashi
Published: February 2019

Transcriptional enhancers are regulatory DNAs that instruct when and where genes should be transcribed in response to a variety of intrinsic and external signals. They contain a cluster of binding sites for sequence‐specific transcription factors and co‐activators to determine the spatiotemporal specificity of gene activities during development. Enhancers are often positioned in distal locations from their target promoters. In some cases, they work over a million base pairs or more. In the traditional view, enhancers have been thought to stably interact with promoters in a targeted manner. However, quantitative imaging studies provide a far more dynamic picture of enhancer action. Moreover, recent Hi‐C methods suggest that regulatory interactions are dynamically regulated by the higher‐order chromosome topology. In this review, we summarize the emerging findings in the field and propose that assembly of “transcription hubs” in the context of 3D genome structure plays an important role in transcriptional regulation.
Colour‐based foraging diverges after multiple generations under different light environments
Authors: Cole Gemma L. , Lynn Jessica C. B. , Kranz Alexandrea M. , Endler John A.
Published: February 2019

When the environment changes, sensory systems can adapt plastically or evolve genetically to the new surroundings, and traits and behaviours reliant on these sensory systems may also change, leading to altered evolutionary trajectories. We tested for differences in colour‐based foraging preferences of guppies (Poecilia reticulata) that lived for 6–10 generations under each of three light environments (green, lilac or control) to determine whether evolution under different light environments alters visually based behaviour. When tested in a common light environment, we found differences in pecking behaviour between treatments that were likely due to changes in the visual system. Pecking behaviour towards green stimuli was consistent across light treatments, possibly reflecting the importance of detecting green algae in the wild. The blue stimulus was only pecked at by fish from the control environments. Behaviour towards long wavelength stimuli varied, possibly due to the polymorphic nature of the long wavelength opsins. These results are consistent with one component of sensory drive but do not allow us to conclude whether these differences are due to plastic or evolved responses.
An extensive common‐garden study with domesticated and wild Atlantic salmon in the wild reveals impact on smolt production and shifts in fitness traits
Authors: Skaala Øystein , Besnier Francois , Borgstrøm Reidar , Barlaup BjørnTorgeir , Sørvik Anne Grete , Normann Eirik , Østebø Britt Iren , Hansen Michael Møller , Glover Kevin Alan
Published: February 2019

Interactions between domesticated escapees and wild conspecifics represent a threat to the genetic integrity and fitness of native populations. For Atlantic salmon, the recurrent presence of large numbers of domesticated escapees in the wild makes it necessary to better understand their impacts on native populations. We planted 254,400 eggs from 75 families of domesticated, F1‐hybrid, and wild salmon in a river containing up‐ and downstream traps. Additionally, 41,630 hatchery smolts of the same pedigrees were released into the river. Over 8 years, 6,669 out‐migrating smolts and 356 returning adults were recaptured and identified to their families of origin with DNA. In comparison with wild salmon, domesticated fish had substantially lower egg to smolt survival (1.8% vs. 3.8% across cohorts), they migrated earlier in the year (11.8 days earlier across years), but they only displayed marginally larger smolt sizes and marginally lower smolt ages. Upon return to freshwater, domesticated salmon were substantially larger at age than wild salmon (2.4 vs. 2.0, 4.8 vs. 3.2, and 8.5 vs. 5.6 kg across sexes for 1, 2, and 3 sea‐winter fish) and displayed substantially lower released smolt to adult survival (0.41% vs. 0.94% across releases). Overall, egg‐to‐returning adult survival ratios were 1:0.76:0.30 and 1:0.44:0.21 for wild:F1‐hybrid:domesticated salmon, respectively, using two different types of data. This study represents the most updated and extensive analysis of domesticated, hybrid, and wild salmon in the wild and provides the first documentation of a clear genetic difference in the timing of smolt migration—an adaptive trait presumed to be linked with optimal timing of entry to seawater. We conclude that spawning and hybridization of domesticated escapees can lead to (i) reduced wild smolt output and therefore wild adult abundance, through resource competition in freshwater, (ii) reduced total adult abundance due to freshwater competition and reduced marine survival of domesticated salmon, and (iii) maladaptive changes in phenotypic traits.
Decision‐making for older patients by Australian and New Zealand doctors with Advance Care Directives: a vignette‐based study
Authors: Mitropoulos Joanna , Austin Nicole , Hunter Peter , Cairney Helena , Parikh Seema
Published: February 2019

Background

Little is known about doctors’ decision‐making patterns when using Advance Care Directives (ACDs), particularly for older patients in Australia and New Zealand.

Aims

To determine the level of agreement among Australian and New Zealand doctors’ decisions when using ACDs to guide treatment decisions for older patients. To evaluate factors that may affect decision‐making including doctors’ demographics, vignette complexity and Advance Care Directive (ACD) content.

Methods

In December 2016–January 2017, a survey was distributed to doctors working within one tertiary hospital network in Melbourne and to doctors registered with the Australian and New Zealand Society of Geriatric Medicine. The survey comprised of three vignettes (1, 2, 3) presented with deidentified versions of genuine ACDs (A and B) volunteered by community members via a tertiary hospital ACD service.

Results

Five hundred and sixty doctors submitted completed surveys. The level of agreement between doctors when using ACDs varied by vignette complexity, ACD content, doctor speciality (P = 0.006 vignette 1 ACD A, P = 0.04 vignette 1 ACD B, P = 0.04 vignette 2 ACD A, P = 0.04 vignette 3 ACD B) and doctor seniority (P = 0.04 vignette 1 ACD A, P < 0.0001 vignette 2 ACD A). Australian and New Zealand doctors are infrequently exposed to ACDs in their work, 30% did not know the legal status of ACDs and majority of the cohort requested more education on ACDs.

Conclusion

Despite the presence of an ACD, the level of agreement on treatment decisions for older patients when using ACDs varies by vignette complexity, ACD content, speciality and seniority of doctors.
Intestinal overexpression of IL‐18 promotes eosinophils‐mediated allergic disorders
Authors: Verma Alok K. , Kandikattu Hemanth Kumar , Manohar Murli , Shukla Anshi , Upparahalli Venkateshaiah Sathisha , Zhu Xiang , Mishra Anil
Published: February 2019

Baseline eosinophils reside in the gastrointestinal tract; however, in several allergic disorders, excessive eosinophils accumulate in the blood as well in the tissues. Recently, we showed in vitro that interleukin (IL)‐18 matures and transforms IL‐5‐generated eosinophils into the pathogenic eosinophils that are detected in human allergic diseases. To examine the role of local induction of IL‐18 in promoting eosinophil‐associated intestinal disorders, we generated enterocyte IL‐18‐overexpressing mice using the rat intestinal fatty acid‐binding promoter (Fabpi) and analysed tissue IL‐18 overexpression and eosinophilia by performing real‐time polymerase chain reaction, Enzyme‐Linked Immunosorbent Assay and anti‐major basic protein immunostaining. Herein we show that Fabpi‐IL‐18 mice display highly induced IL‐18 mRNA and protein in the jejunum. IL‐18 overexpression in enterocytes promotes marked increases of eosinophils in the blood and jejunum. Our analysis shows IL‐18 overexpression in the jejunum induces a specific population of CD101+ CD274+ tissue eosinophils. Additionally, we observed comparable tissue eosinophilia in IL‐13‐deficient‐Fabpi‐IL‐18 mice, and reduced numbers of tissue eosinophils in eotaxin‐deficient‐Fabpi‐IL‐18 and IL‐5‐deficient‐Fabpi‐IL‐18 mice compared with Fabpi‐IL‐18 transgenic mice. Notably, jejunum eosinophilia in IL‐5‐deficient‐Fabpi‐IL‐18 mice is significantly induced compared with wild‐type mice, which indicates the direct role of induced IL‐18 in the tissue accumulation of eosinophils and mast cells. Furthermore, we also found that overexpression of IL‐18 in the intestine promotes eosinophil‐associated peanut‐induced allergic responses in mice. Taken together, we provide direct in vivo evidence that induced expression of IL‐18 in the enterocytes promotes eotaxin‐1, IL‐5 and IL‐13 independent intestinal eosinophilia, which signifies the clinical relevance of induced IL‐18 in eosinophil‐associated gastrointestinal disorders (EGIDs) to food allergens.
Enhanced thermal stability by introducing TiN diffusion barrier layer between W and SiC
Authors: Cheng Ping , DelaCruz Steven , Tsai Dung‐Sheng , Wang Zhongtao , Carraro Carlo , Maboudian Roya
Published: February 2019

The combination of W and SiC has many applications such as a hot cell of a thermionic energy converter, nuclear material, and high temperature microelectronics. In this study, a 2 µm thick TiN film is introduced as a diffusion barrier between SiC and W to avoid the inter‐diffusion reaction at high temperature. The effect of annealing temperature on the surface morphology and microstructure of the TiN film is studied to explore its high temperature stability. Then 500 nm W film is sputtered on the TiN film to characterize the inter‐diffusion and stability of the W/TiN/SiC multilayer at 1100°C by XRD, Raman spectroscopy and cross‐sectional EDS mapping techniques. The results indicate that the W/TiN/SiC multilayer is very stable even when heated at 1100°C for 25 hours.
Understanding the origin of the most isolated endemic reef fish fauna of the Indo‐Pacific: Coral reef fishes of Rapa Nui
Authors: Delrieu‐Trottin Erwan , Brosseau‐Acquaviva Laura , Mona Stefano , Neglia Valentina , Giles Emily C. , Rapu‐Edmunds Cristian , Saenz‐Agudelo Pablo
Published: February 2019

Aim

To understand the origin of the most isolated endemic fish fauna of the Indo‐Pacific, Easter Island (Rapa Nui), and to infer divergence times and colonization routes of the endemic coral reef fish fauna from their closest relatives.

Location

Easter Island, Pacific Ocean.

Methods

Samples of ten species were used: six small‐range species endemic to Rapa Nui and Motu Motiro Hiva (Salas y Gómez) (i.e. small‐range endemic species) and four large‐range species endemic to the southern subtropical Pacific (i.e. large‐range endemic species). We present phylogenetic reconstruction results based on mitochondrial (1 to 5) and nuclear (1 to 6) loci to place these endemic species in their respective family phylogenies (8). Using these newly calibrated phylogenetic trees, information of species distributions and geological data, we inferred the divergence times from the closest relatives of these ten endemic fishes, compared biogeographical history estimation models to reconstruct their ancestral geographic ranges, colonization routes and underlying mechanisms of speciation.

Results

The divergence times (i.e. divergence times from the closest relatives) of all of the small‐range endemics studied were more recent than the age of Rapa Nui and Motu Motiro Hiva; thus, these species can be considered as neoendemics. Biogeographical history estimation models indicated that speciation following a founder‐event is the most likely scenario. In contrast, the divergence estimates of the large‐range endemic species were highly variable. This being said, the divergence times of all species were more recent than the age of the oldest islands within their distributions.

Main conclusions

Taken together, these results demonstrate that Rapa Nui acts as a cradle of coral reef biodiversity, being responsible for the emergence of small‐range endemic fish species, but also a route of dispersion for several large‐range endemics and as a stepping stone in the diversification of the Myripristis and Pseudolabrus genera. While no common divergence time was recovered for all of the ten endemic species studied here, the common mechanism of speciation following a founder event was recovered for most of the small‐range endemic species.
Eukaryotic Sequences in the 16SrRNA Metagenomic Dataset of Algal–bacterial Consortia of the White Sea Coastal Zone
Authors: Chekanov Konstantin , Kublanovskaya Anna , Lobakova Elena
Published: February 2019

The libraries of bacterial 16SrRNA gene fragment from algal–bacterial consortia of the White Sea coastal zone are analyzed. Up to 3% of the reads have revealed to correspond to eukaryotic rRNA. They related to following main eukaryotic clades: Discoba, Stramenopiles, Ciliata, Amoebozoa, and Nucletmycea. Amoebae, especially Vermamoeba, were present in all samples. In one sample, heterolobose amoeba Paravahlkampfia was detected. These microorganisms are parasites of microalgae, which can induce significant damage to industrial cultures. However, the data on their physiology and distribution are scarce. This study provides new evidence about the diversity of herbivorous eukaryotic microorganisms in natural algal‐containing consortia.
Mucosal galectin genes in all freshwater eels of the genus Anguilla
Authors: Tsutsui Shigeyuki , Yoshinaga Tatsuki , Watanabe Shun , Tsukamoto Katsumi , Nakamura Osamu
Published: February 2019

In this study, we determined the genomic DNA sequences of the mucosal galectin‐encoding genes from all 19 species and subspecies of the genus Anguilla. The nucleotide sequences of the galectin genes were c. 2.3–2.5 kb long and the organisation of their four exons and three introns was conserved in all species. An unusual sequence was found in the fourth exon of Anguilla reinhardtii, resulting in a unique deduced amino‐acid sequence at the C‐terminus. All six amino‐acid residues important for β‐galactoside binding were conserved in three species, while one residue (R73) was substituted to K73 in the other 16 species–subspecies, including Anguilla marmorata. However, this substitution did not appear to affect the sugar‐binding ability of galectins because the galectin of A. marmorata was previously shown to bind to lactose. We also discuss the molecular evolution of galectins among Anguilla spp. and the homologues previously identified in Conger myriaster.
Chronic spearfishing may indirectly affect reef health through reductions in parrotfish bite rates
Authors: Skinner Christina , Newman Steven P. , Box Stephen , Narozanski Andrzej , Polunin Nicholas V. C.
Published: February 2019

The grazing behaviour of two Caribbean parrotfish, a fished species, the stoplight parrotfish Sparisoma viride and a non‐fished species, the striped parrotfish Scarus iseri, were studied in the presence (fished site) and absence (marine reserve) of chronic spearfishing activity. Diurnal feeding periodicity did not differ between the sites in either species: roving individuals had significantly higher bite rates in the afternoon, while territorial individuals foraged consistently throughout the day. Mean bite rate varied between sites in both species. Abundance, biomass and bite rates of S. viride were all significantly higher within the reserve, except for roving S. viride which had a higher mean bite rate in the afternoon outside the reserve compared with within it, attributable to maximisation of feeding in the afternoon when fishing risk was lower. Scarus iseri mean abundance and bite rate were greater outside the reserve, potentially because reduction in large territorial herbivores allowed S. iseri to feed more rapidly. By reducing the grazing potential of the remaining S. viride individuals the effect of fishing is greater than would be predicted from biomass changes alone. Less grazing by S. viride would not be compensated for by the increase in grazing by S. iseri because the latter feeds on different algae. Spearfishing of key parrotfish species reduces grazing potential directly by extraction and indirectly by changing behaviour.
Effects of various thermal processing methods on the shelf‐life and product quality of vacuum‐packaged braised beef
Authors: Wang Qingbo , Zhang Min , Adhikari Benu , Cao Ping , Yang Chao‐Hui
Published: February 2019

The aim of this article was to compare the effects of three different heating methods; water bath (WB), radio frequency (RF), microwave (MW), and their combinations (WB–RF, WB–MW, RF–MW) on reducing bacterial load, extending shelf‐life, and preserving quality (color, texture, peroxide value, and smell) of vacuum packed braised beef. The thermally processed samples were stored at 37°C, and the total number of bacterial colonies, pH, color, texture, and smell profiles was measured and analyzed. WB–RF heating was found to be the most suitable among these three methods and their combinations. WB–RF prolonged the shelf‐life of samples to the longest and also caused the least damage to color, texture, flavor, and caused least lipid oxidation. The WB–RF processed samples had similar sensory acceptability to that of untreated samples.

Practical applications

Compared with high temperature and high pressure sterilization, flexible heating methods can be a feasible approach to not only guarantee a certain shelf‐life of the braised beef but also improve the sensory and nutritional quality of products thus increasing the acceptability to consumers.
Revisiting the Role of Negotiation and Trivialization in Environmental Law Enforcement
Authors: Pedersen Ole W.
Published: February 2019

Using an empirical assessment of the use of enforcement undertakings by the Environment Agency and the engagement of the courts with the recently enacted sentencing guidelines for environmental offences, this article argues that the enforcement of environmental law is undergoing significant change. This change manifests itself in an increased reliance on written negotiated agreements in the form of enforcement undertakings by the Enivironment Agency and the willingness of the courts to hand down significant fines in cases against certain types of polluters. These new dynamics suggest that negotiation continues to play an important role in the enforcement of environmental law, albeit in a contractualized form. The application of the sentencing guidelines conversely suggests that environmental offences are no longer trivialized by the courts. Taken together, these emerging dynamics not only create specific incentives between agencies and offenders but also call into question established understandings and perceptions of regulatory enforcement.
Intergenerational Exchange of Support in Low‐Income Families: Understanding Resource Dilution and Increased Contribution
Authors: Roksa Josipa
Published: February 2019

Objective: This study examines the resource dilution hypothesis during the transition to adulthood, when parental support is both more optional and more contested, and when children may not only receive but also provide support to their families.

Background: Prior sociological literature on the investment of family resources and the role of siblings has typically focused on younger children in compulsory schooling. It is not clear whether the patterns observed among young children hold across other stages of the life course.

Method: The study is based on a sample of 740 low‐income students attending seven public 4‐year institutions in Wisconsin. Regression analyses examine the extent to which students receive financial, emotional, and in‐kind support from their families as well as the extent to which they provide those types of supports to their families.

Results: The results indicate that siblings dilute financial support low‐income students receive from their families, but not emotional or in‐kind support. Notably, siblings do not only dilute financial resources; they also invite increased contributions. Low‐income young adults receive less financial support and provide more financial and in‐kind support in larger families.

Conclusion: The findings imply the importance of revising the resource dilution hypothesis to reflect variation across different stages of the life course and to account for the bidirectional exchange of support.
Being an Intelligent Slave of God
Authors: Sheikh Faraz
Published: February 2019

How did premodern Muslim thinkers talk about living authentically as a Muslim in the world? How, in their view, could selves transform themselves into ideal religious subjects or slaves of God? Which virtues, technologies of the self and intersubjective relations did they see implicated in inhabiting or attaining what I shall callʿabdīsubjectivity? In this paper, I make explicit how various discursive, ethical strategies formed, informed, and transformed Muslim subjectivity in early Muslim thought by focusing on the writings of an important ninth century Muslim moral pedagogue, al‐Muḥāsibī (d. 857). This study illustrates the advantages of approaching early Muslim texts and discourses through the tools and methods made available by comparative religious ethics in order to reexamine our understanding of Muslim subject formation and the role of ethical and theological discourses in the same.
Medical Neoliberalism in Rape Crisis Center Counseling: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of Clinicians’ Understandings of Survivor Distress
Authors: Peters Shannon M.
Published: February 2019

A neoliberal medicalized framework shapes society's understanding of distress as a disease or disorder and places the responsibility on individuals to “fix” themselves, situating the problem within a person, rather than in a sociopolitical context. This framework has become increasingly prevalent in Western society and has permeated rape crisis centers (RCCs), which play a vital role supporting sexual violence survivors. The goal of the present study was to explore the impact of a neoliberal medicalized discourse on RCC clinicians’ understandings of survivor distress. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was employed. Six RCC clinicians were interviewed. Analysis revealed four master themes:Wielding the Double‐Edged Sword of the Medical Model,Navigating the Healing Process with Survivors,Stay in Your Lane: The Role of the RCC, andUnderstanding and Honoring Survivor Shame. Recommendations for researchers and clinicians working with survivors are provided pertaining to how to (1) critically adopt medical neoliberalism, (2) empower survivors with medication information, and (3) employ alternatives to individual counseling to foster healing. Suggestions for future research are also provided.
Variations in U.S. consumers' acceptability of commercially‐available rice‐based milk alternatives with respect to sensory attributes and food neophobia traits
Authors: Pramudya Ragita C. , Lee Jihyun , Chapko Matthew J. , Lee KwangRag , Lee Sunghee , Lee JunYoung , Tokar Tonya , Seo Han‐Seok
Published: February 2019

This study aimed to determine whether acceptability of rice‐based milk alternatives (RMAs) is influenced by sensory attributes and nonsensory factors, in particular with respect to US consumers' demographic profiles, frequency of RMA consumption, and food neophobia traits. Ten trained panelists evaluated 7 commercially‐available RMA samples with respect to 23 attributes, and 101 consumer panelists rated both hedonic impressions and just‐about‐right (JAR) intensities of attributes among the 7 RMA samples. Descriptive sensory analysis revealed that the 7 RMA samples differed significantly in terms of the 13 attributes. A partial least squares regression found that overall liking of RMAs was positively associated with higher intensities of sweetness, astringency, and nutty, vanillin, and grainy flavor attributes, while it was negatively associated with higher intensities of yeasty/fermented, vanillin, and starchy aromas, yeasty/fermented and cardboard flavors, bitter and sour tastes, and dark color. Consumers with higher food neophobia traits were found to like flavors of RMAs less. Overall likings of RMAs did not differ as a function of gender, age group, annual household income, and frequency of RMA consumption. In conclusion, this study provides a better understanding of sensory attributes, consumer acceptability, and drivers of liking for commercially‐available RMAs in the U.S. market.

Practical applications

Rice‐based milk alternatives are one category of nondairy milk alternatives commercially available in the U.S. market. Food manufacturers, marketers, and sensory professionals should consider RMAs' sensory attributes and consumers' food neophobia traits not only when designing new products, but also when promoting their products to potential customers.