bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An integration team’s diagnosing of context, spanning boundaries and creating psychological safety within a multiteam system
Authors: Huggins Ronald Archie Charles , Scheepers Caren Brenda
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore how integration teams can build trusting relationships in component teams to enhance their leadership capability within multiteam systems to achieve common superordinate goals. The study investigates how an integration team diagnoses contextual dynamics to enhance understanding of goals in component teams and spans boundaries to create trusting relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed model was tested by surveying 396 respondents nested within component teams working within five South African manufacturing companies. Structural Equation Modeling was used to analyse the data.

Findings

The study reveals that by diagnosing the contextual dynamics within a multiteam system and through boundary spanning, an integration team builds trusting relationships, which will, ultimately, enable teams to achieve common superordinate goals.

Practical implications

This study offers organisations insights into how multiple component teams of different functional disciplines can work effectively towards achieving an overall or common superordinate goal. It offers insights on how to mitigate misalignment challenges by implementing an integration team within the multiteam system context.

Originality/value

Research participants were employees within a manufacturing context, which sets this study apart from many previous ones conducted in a simulated environment within a military context. The study investigates building trusting relationships among multiple component teams within a multiteam system through the implementation of an integration team, which has not been specifically addressed in previous studies.
Efficacy and safety of topical OPA‐15406, a new phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor, in Japanese patients with atopic dermatitis for 8 weeks: A phase 2, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Saeki Hidehisa , Kawashima Makoto , Sugaya Satoko , Oshiden Kazuhide , Tsubouchi Hidetsugu
Published: June 2019

The efficacy and safety of topical OPA‐15406, a new phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor, were examined in Japanese patients aged 15–70 years with atopic dermatitis in a phase 2, randomized, double‐blind, vehicle‐controlled study. Two hundred patients were randomized to three treatment groups at a 1:1:1 ratio to receive OPA‐15406 0.3%, OPA‐15406 1% or vehicle ointment twice daily for 8 weeks. The OPA‐15406 1% group was superior to the vehicle group in terms of the incidence of success based on the Investigator Global Assessment score at week 4 (P = 0.0328), which was the primary end‐point, while the OPA‐15406 0.3% group showed a trend toward improvement in the primary end‐point. The mean Eczema Area and Severity Index total score and subscale (erythema, induration/papulation, excoriation and lichenification) scores, the Visual Analog Scale pruritus score and the Patient‐Oriented Eczema Measure score were significantly improved and the percentage of affected body surface area was significantly decreased in both OPA‐15406 groups relative to the vehicle group as early as week 1, and the improved scores and decreased percentages were generally maintained until week 8. No deaths or serious treatment‐emergent adverse events occurred in the OPA‐15406 treatment groups. Treatment‐emergent adverse events frequently observed across treatment groups were worsening of atopic dermatitis, viral upper respiratory tract infection and pruritus, all of which were mild or moderate in severity in the OPA‐15406 groups. OPA‐15406 1% ointment showed favorable efficacy and safety profiles, indicating a promising treatment option for patients with atopic dermatitis.
UK criteria for uterus transplantation: a review
Authors: Hammond‐Browning N
Published: June 2019

Absolute uterine factor infertility is the final hurdle for assisted reproductive treatments. Uterus transplant trials are happening worldwide; to advance the debate around uterine transplantation (UTx), this article considers selection criteria for clinical trials from a UK perspective and makes recommendations for future selection criteria for UTx treatment. Recommendations advanced include the use of donor eggs, access for single women and women in same‐sex relationships, prohibiting participation of women who are already mothers, and a preference for deceased donors and bioengineered uteri. With UTx treatment on the horizon, it is important to proactively consider future selection criteria.

Tweetable abstract

Review of UK selection criteria for clinical trials for uterus transplantation; recommendations for the future.
Evaluating Agricultural Productivity and Policy in Russia
Authors: Rada Nicholas , Liefert William , Liefert Olga
Published: June 2019

Russia's transition to a market economy in the early 1990s shocked its agricultural sector, creating the potential for profit and gains from specialisation and productivity improvements. However, subsequent regional agricultural development has been highly uneven, and the sources of the sector's productivity improvement remain unclear. Drawing on a newly‐assembled Russian regional farm production and policy dataset, we evaluate agricultural total factor productivity growth from 1994 to 2013, decomposing that growth into technical progress and efficiency gains, for the nation as a whole and for the major agricultural districts of the South and Central. We then test how investments in road and rail infrastructure and human capital have influenced those gains. The South substantially outperformed the Central district and the nation at large with respect to all three performance indicators. However, contrary to the literature, we find that these particular state policies provided no substantial growth advantages, there or elsewhere. Rather, the dominant force behind Russia's agricultural growth has been informal technical change.
Thoracoscopic lobectomy using indocyanine green fluorescence to detect the interlobar fissure in a patient with displaced B3 and absence of fissure: A case report
Authors: Nakanishi Keita , Kuroda Hiroaki , Nakada Takeo , Ueno Harushi , Sakakura Noriaki
Published: June 2019

A 90‐year‐old woman was admitted to our hospital with suspected lung adenocarcinoma. Preoperative three‐dimensional reconstructed computed tomography revealed displacement of the anterior segmental bronchus (B3) arising from the right middle lobe bronchus with absence of the fissure between the right upper and middle lobes. A complete thoracoscopic right upper lobectomy was successfully performed. It is crucial to identify such anomalies prior to lung resection to avoid intraoperative complications during thoracoscopic lobectomy or segmentectomy. Additionally, intravenous indocyanine green with a fluorescence system was useful to identify the proper interlobar fissure boundary intraoperatively. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of thoracoscopic lobectomy for lung cancer with displaced B3 and absence of the interlobar fissure to be performed by applying the intravenous indocyanine green method.
A Multifaceted Intervention Improves Prescribing for Acute Respiratory Infection for Adults and Children in Emergency Department and Urgent Care Settings
Authors: Yadav Kabir , Meeker Daniella , Mistry Rakesh D. , Doctor Jason N. , Fleming‐Dutra Katherine E. , Fleischman Ross J. , Gaona Samuel D. , Stahmer Aubyn , May Larissa
Published: June 2019

Background

Antibiotics are commonly prescribed during emergency department (ED) and urgent care center (UCC) visits for viral acute respiratory infection (ARI). We evaluate the comparative effectiveness of an antibiotic stewardship intervention adapted for acute care ambulatory settings (adapted intervention) to a stewardship intervention that additionally incorporates behavioral nudges (enhanced intervention) in reducing inappropriate prescriptions.

Methods

This study was a pragmatic, cluster‐randomized clinical trial conducted in three academic health systems comprising five adult and pediatric EDs and four UCCs. Randomization of the nine sites was stratified by health system; all providers at each site received either the adapted or the enhanced intervention. The main outcome was the proportion of antibiotic‐inappropriate ARI diagnosis visits that received an outpatient antibiotic prescription by individual providers. We estimated a hierarchical mixed‐effects logistic regression model comparing visits during the influenza season for 2016 to 2017 (baseline) and 2017 to 2018 (intervention).

Results

There were 44,820 ARI visits among 292 providers across all nine cluster sites. Antibiotic prescribing for ARI visits dropped from 6.2% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 4.5% to 7.9%) to 2.4% (95% CI = 1.3% to 3.4%) during the study period. We found a significant reduction in inappropriate prescribing after adjusting for health‐system and provider‐level effects from 2.2% (95% CI = 1.0% to 3.4%) to 1.5% (95% CI = 0.7% to 2.3%) with an odds ratio of 0.67 (95% CI = 0.54 to 0.82). Difference‐in‐differences between the two interventions was not significantly different.

Conclusion

Implementation of antibiotic stewardship for ARI is feasible and effective in the ED and UCC settings. More intensive behavioral nudging methods were not more effective in high‐performance settings.
Metformin overdose: A serious iatrogenic complication—Western France Poison Control Centre Data Analysis
Authors: Stevens Alexandre , Hamel Jean‐François , Toure Ali , Hadjadj Samy , Boels David
Published: June 2019

Introduction

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) continues to rise across the world. Metformin is still considered the “gold standard” and is, therefore, increasingly prescribed. Monitoring of metformin continues to be debated because of its association with lactic acidosis (MALA), a rare but life‐threatening complication. The aim of this study was to identify the main individual characteristics associated with severe poisoning in self‐poisonings and therapeutic accidents reported at the Western France Poison Control Centre (PCC).

Methods

Retrospective study of metformin poisoning from September 1999 to September 2016 at the Western France PCC recorded in the French PCC’s database (SICAP). The end‐point was clinically high severity (mortality and/or cardiovascular shock and/or GCS ≤ 7/15).

Results

Of the 382 cases included, 197 concerned acute accidental exposures, 127 self‐poisonings and 58 therapeutic accidents. MALA concerned 63 patients: 44 therapeutic accidents and 19 self‐poisonings. High severity concerned 59 patients: 47 therapeutic accidents and 12 self‐poisonings. T2D and age > 60 significantly increase the risk of high severity (OR 7.7, CI [1.54‐38.41]; P = 0.013; OR 3.5, CI [1.60‐7.84]; P = 0.002, respectively).

Conclusions

Metformin may lead to MALA and severe poisoning in therapeutic accidents but also in self‐poisoning circumstances. Among reported cases, T2D history and age >60 increase the risk of serious poisoning. Monitoring of their treatment should be taken seriously especially in the event of digestive symptoms such as diarrhoea.
Daratumumab and dexamethasone is safe and effective for triple refractory myeloma patients: final results of the IFM 2014‐04 (Etoile du Nord) trial
Authors: Boyle Eileen M. , Leleu Xavier , Petillon Marie‐Odile , Karlin Lionel , Doyen Chantal , Demarquette Hélène , Royer Bruno , Macro Margaret , Moreau Philippe , Fostier Karel , Marie‐Lorraine Chretien , Zarnitsky Charles , Perrot Aurore , Herbaux Charles , Poulain Stephanie , Manier Salomon , Beauvais David , Walker Brian A. , Wardell Christopher P. , Vincent Laure , Frenzel Laurent , Caillon Hélène , Susanna Schraen , Dejoie Thomas , Avet‐Loiseau Hervé , Mohty Mohamad , Facon Thierry ,   the IFM2014‐04 investigators
Published: June 2019

Single agent daratumumab has shown clinical activity in relapsed, refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM). The Intergroupe Francophone du Myélome 2014‐04 trial was designed to further investigate daratumumab in combination with dexamethasone in triple RRMM patients. Patients received daratumumab infusions in combination with weekly dexamethasone until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Fifty‐seven patients were included in the trial and evaluable for response. The overall response rate and the clinical benefit rate were 33% (n = 19) and 48% (n = 27), respectively. Five (8·8%) patients achieved a very good partial response or better. The median time to response was 4 weeks. For responding patients, the median progression‐free survival was 6·6 months, compared to 3·7 months (3·0–5·5) for those with a minimal or stable disease. The median overall survival (OS) for all patients was 16·7 months (11·2–24·0). For responding patients, the median OS was 23·23 months, whereas that of patients with progressive disease was 2·97 months. The incidence of infusion‐related reactions was 37%; all cases were manageable and did not lead to dose reduction or permanent treatment discontinuation. These data demonstrate that treatment with daratumumab and dexamethasone results in a meaningful long‐term benefit with an acceptable safety profile for patients with triple RRMM.
Successional loss of two key food tree species best explains decline in group size of Panamanian howler monkeys (Alouatta palliata)
Authors: Milton Katharine , Armitage David W. , Sousa Wayne P.
Published: June 2019

Negative impacts of discrete, short‐term disturbances to wildlife populations are well‐documented. The consequences of more gradual environmental change are less apparent and harder to study because they play out over longer periods and are often indirect in their action. Yet, they can drive the decline of wildlife populations even in seemingly pristine and currently well‐protected habitats. One such environmental change is a successional shift in a community's species composition as it regenerates from disturbance caused by past human land use. Early and middle successional tree species often provide key foods to folivores and frugivores, but the abundance of these resources drops as the forest matures, with adverse repercussions for these consumers. Our 44‐year record (1974–2018) of howler monkey (Alouatta palliata) group sizes and demographic composition from Barro Colorado Island, Panama, a protected reserve, documents an example of this phenomenon. After 70 years of relative stability, the mean size of howler monkey groups exhibited a marked decline, beginning in 2003. This downward trajectory in group size has continued through the most recent census in 2018. The composition of howler groups also changed significantly during the study period, with the patterns of decline differing among age/sex classes. There is no evidence that these changes were caused by increased rates of emigration, group fission, predation, parasitism, or disease. Rather, they are best explained by an island‐wide, succession‐driven decline in the densities of two species of free‐standing fig trees, Ficus yoponensis and F. insipida, which together were providing ~36% of BCI howlers’ annual diet.

Abstract in Spanish is available with online material.
FARM: Functional Automatic Registration Method for 3D Human Bodies
Authors: Marin R. , Melzi S. , Rodolà E. , Castellani U.
Published: June 2019

We introduce a new method for non‐rigid registration of 3D human shapes. Our proposed pipeline builds upon a given parametric model of the human, and makes use of the functional map representation for encoding and inferring shape maps throughout the registration process. This combination endows our method with robustness to a large variety of nuisances observed in practical settings, including non‐isometric transformations, downsampling, topological noise and occlusions; further, the pipeline can be applied invariably across different shape representations (e.g. meshes and point clouds), and in the presence of (even dramatic) missing parts such as those arising in real‐world depth sensing applications. We showcase our method on a selection of challenging tasks, demonstrating results in line with, or even surpassing, state‐of‐the‐art methods in the respective areas.
A spatially explicit empirical model of structural development processes in natural forests based on climate and topography
Authors: Yamaura Yuichi , Lindenmayer David , Yamada Yusuke , Gong Hao , Matsuura Toshiya , Mitsuda Yasushi , Masaki Takashi
Published: June 2019

Stand structure develops with stand age. Old‐growth forests with well‐developed stand structure support many species. However, development rates of stand structure likely vary with climate and topography. We modeled structural development of 4 key stand variables and a composite old‐growth index as functions of climatic and topographic covariates. We used a hierarchical Bayesian method for analysis of extensive snap‐shot National Forest Inventory (NFI) data in Japan (n= 9244) to account for differences in stand age. Development rates of structural variables and the old‐growth index exhibited curvilinear responses to environmental covariates. Flat sites were characterized by high rates of structural development. Approximately 150 years were generally required to attain high values (approximately 0.8) of the old‐growth index. However, the predicted age to achieve specific values varied depending on environmental conditions. Spatial predictions highlighted regional variation in potential structural development rates. For example, sometimes there were differences of >100 years among sites, even in the same catchment, in attainment of a medium index value (0.5) after timber harvesting. The NFI data suggested that natural forests, especially old natural forests (>150 years), remain generally on unproductive ridges, steep slopes, or areas with low temperature and deep snow, where many structural variables show slow development rates. We suggest that maintenance and restoration of old natural forests on flat sites should be prioritized for conservation due to the likely rapid development of stand structure, although remaining natural forests on low‐productivity sites are still important and should be protected.
Conservation performance of tropical protected areas: How important is management?
Authors: Schleicher Judith , Peres Carlos A. , Leader‐Williams Nigel
Published: June 2019

Increasing the coverage of effectively managed protected areas (PAs) is a key focus of the 2020 Aichi biodiversity targets. PA management has received considerable attention, often based on the widely held, but rarely examined, assumption that positive conservation outcomes will result from increased PA management inputs. To shed light on this assumption, we integrated data on PA management factors with 2006–2011 avoided forest degradation and deforestation across the Peruvian Amazon, using a counterfactual approach, combined with interviews and ranking exercises. We show that while increasing PA management input to Amazonian PAs tended to reduce likelihoods of forest degradation and deforestation, the associations were weak. Key challenges facing PAs ranked by PA managers included wider law enforcement, corruption and land title issues, rather than local management factors. We therefore encourage the post‐2020 conservation targets to adopt holistic approaches beyond PA management, incorporating political, institutional and governance contexts across scales.
Longitudinal associations between depression and diabetes complications: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Nouwen A. , Adriaanse M. C. , van Dam K. , Iversen M. M. , Viechtbauer W. , Peyrot M. , Caramlau I. , Kokoszka A. , Kanc K. , de Groot M. , Nefs G. , Pouwer F. ,   the European Depression in Diabetes (EDID) Research Consortium
Published: June 2019

To conduct a systematic review and meta‐analysis of longitudinal studies assessing the bi‐directional association between depression and diabetes macrovascular and microvascular complications. Embase, Medline and PsycINFO databases were searched from inception through 27 November 2017. A total of 4592 abstracts were screened for eligibility. Meta‐analyses used multilevel random/mixed‐effects models. Quality was assessed using the Newcastle‐Ottawa scale. Twenty‐two studies were included in the systematic review. Sixteen studies examined the relationship between baseline depression and incident diabetes complications, of which nine studies involving over one million participants were suitable for meta‐analysis. Depression was associated with an increased risk of incident macrovascular (HR = 1.38; 95% CI: 1.30–1.47) and microvascular disease (HR = 1.33; 95% CI: 1.25–1.41). Six studies examined the association between baseline diabetes complications and subsequent depression, of which two studies involving over 230 000 participants were suitable for meta‐analysis. The results showed that diabetes complications increased the risk of incident depressive disorder (HR = 1.14; 95% CI: 1.07–1.21). The quality analysis showed increased risk of bias notably in the representativeness of selected cohorts and ascertainment of exposure and outcome. Depression in people with diabetes is associated with an increased risk of incident macrovascular and microvascular complications. The relationship between depression and diabetes complications appears bi‐directional. However, the risk of developing diabetes complications in depressed people is higher than the risk of developing depression in people with diabetes complications. The underlying mechanisms warrant further research.
Capacity of different anthropometric measures to predict diabetes in a Chinese population in southwest China: a 15‐year prospective study
Authors: Wang Z. , He S. , Chen X.
Published: June 2019

Aim

To investigate whether conicity index, abdominal volume index, body adiposity index, body roundness index, cardiometabolic index and lipid accumulation product compared with waist circumference could predict future diabetes in a 15‐year prospective study.

Methods

The data were collected in 1992 and recollected in 2007 from the same group of 687 individuals. Anthropometric indices and biochemical data were obtained. Cox's proportional hazards regression models were used to estimate the hazard ratios of anthropometric measures. The discriminatory power of anthropometric measures for incident diabetes were assessed by Harrell's C‐statistic.

Results

During follow‐up, 74 participants were newly diagnosed with diabetes. In multivariable Cox regression analysis after adjusting potential for confounders, log10‐conicity index [HR: 1.67 (95% CI: 1.31–2.11) per sd; P < 0.0001], log10‐abdominal volume index [HR: 1.95 (95% CI: 1.50–2.55) per sd; P < 0.0001], log10‐body adiposity index [HR: 1.82 (95% CI: 1.33–2.50) per sd; P < 0.0001], log10‐body roundness index [HR: 2.16 (95% CI: 1.63–2.88) per sd; P < 0.0001], log10‐cardiometabolic index [HR: 1.70 (95% CI: 1.39–2.09) per sd; P < 0.0001], log10‐lipid accumulation product [HR: 2.06 (95% CI: 1.56–2.73) per sd; P < 0.0001] and log10‐waist circumference [HR: 1.99 (95% CI: 1.51–2.46) per sd; P < 0.0001] were significantly associated with incident diabetes. Additionally, lipid accumulation product had the highest Harrell's C‐statistic at 0.715 (95% CI: 0.656–0.775), followed by body roundness index at 0.714 (95% CI: 0.658–0.770) and cardiometabolic index at 0.704 (95% CI: 0.643–0.764) then by waist circumference at 0.701 (95% CI: 0.644–0.759).

Conclusions

Conicity index, abdominal volume index, body adiposity index, body roundness index, cardiometabolic index and lipid accumulation product were independent predictors of future diabetes. The discriminatory power of body roundness index, cardiometabolic index and lipid accumulation product for diabetes prediction were higher than that of waist circumference.
Tie a yellow ribbon around a papillary muscle
Authors: Cua Clifford L. , Cunningham Tyler W. , Low Samantha , Salavitabar Arash , Berman Darren P.
Published: June 2019

An 8‐year‐old boy with tetralogy of Fallot, pulmonary atresia, and major aortopulmonary collaterals status post complete repair including a fenestrated ventricular septal defect patch presented to the catheterization laboratory for fenestration closure. During the procedure, the catheterization wire was found to have an unusual intracardiac loop and was unable to be straightened within the heart. Three‐dimensional transesophageal echocardiography revealed the wire was looped around a right ventricular papillary muscle. The wire was readjusted, and the fenestration was successfully closed. Three‐dimensional imaging was essential in unambiguously defining the catheter course and assisting in fenestration closure.
Signatures of selection for bonamiosis resistance in European flat oyster (Ostrea edulis): New genomic tools for breeding programs and management of natural resources
Authors: Vera Manuel , Pardo Belén G. , Cao Asunción , Vilas Román , Fernández Carlos , Blanco Andrés , Gutierrez Alejandro P. , Bean Tim P. , Houston Ross D. , Villalba Antonio , Martínez Paulino
Published: June 2019

The European flat oyster (Ostrea edulis) is a highly appreciated mollusk with an important aquaculture production throughout the 20th century, in addition to playing an important role on coastal ecosystems. Overexploitation of natural beds, habitat degradation, introduction of non‐native species, and epidemic outbreaks have severely affected this important resource, particularly, the protozoan parasite Bonamia ostreae, which is the main concern affecting its production and conservation. In order to identify genomic regions and markers potentially associated with bonamiosis resistance, six oyster beds distributed throughout the European Atlantic coast were sampled. Three of them have been exposed to this parasite since the early 1980s and showed some degree of innate resistance (long‐term affected group, LTA), while the other three were free of B. ostreae at least until sampling date (naïve group, NV). A total of 14,065 SNPs were analyzed, including 37 markers from candidate genes and 14,028 from a medium‐density SNP array. Gene diversity was similar between LTA and NV groups suggesting no genetic erosion due to long‐term exposure to the parasite, and three population clusters were detected using the whole dataset. Tests for divergent selection between NV and LTA groups detected the presence of a very consistent set of 22 markers, located within a putative single genomic region, which suggests the presence of a major quantitative trait locus associated with B. ostreae resistance. Moreover, 324 outlier loci associated with factors other than bonamiosis were identified allowing fully discrimination of all the oyster beds. A practical tool which included the 84 highest discriminative markers for tracing O. edulis populations was developed and tested with empirical data. Results reported herein could assist the production of stocks with improved resistance to bonamiosis and facilitate the management of oyster beds for recovery production and ecosystem services provided by this species.
An insight into mode II fracture toughness testing using SCB specimen
Authors: Bahrami Bahador , Ayatollahi Majid R. , Sedighi Iman , Yazid Yahya Mohd
Published: June 2019

The effect of friction forces between the test specimen and its bottom supports on the mode II fracture toughness values obtained using the semicircular bend (SCB) specimen is investigated. First, a number of experiments were conducted on SCB specimen in order to determine the mode II fracture toughness of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) according to the conventional approaches available in the literature. Three different types of supports that have been frequently employed by researchers in recent years were used to evaluate the effect of support type on the fracture loads. It was found that the friction forces between the supports and the SCB specimen have a significant effect on the value of mode II fracture toughness measured using the SCB samples. Then, the specimen was simulated using finite element method for more detailed investigation on the near crack tip stress field evolution when friction forces increase between the supports and the SCB specimen. The finite element results confirmed that the type of support affects not only the stress intensity factors KI and KII but also the T‐stress. The experimental and numerical results showed that the use of the crack tip parameters available in literature for frictionless contact between the supports and the SCB specimen can result in significant errors when the mode II experiments are performed by using the fixed or roller‐in‐grove types of supports.
Abnormal behavior, striatal dopamine turnover and opioid peptide gene expression in histamine‐deficient mice
Authors: Abdurakhmanova Shamsiiat , Semenova Svetlana , Piepponen T. Petteri , Panula Pertti
Published: June 2019

Hypothalamic histaminergic neurons regulate a variety of homeostatic, metabolic and cognitive functions. Recent data have suggested a modulatory role of histamine and histamine receptors in shaping striatal activity and connected the histaminergic system to neuropsychiatric disorders. We characterized exploratory behavior and striatal neurotransmission in mice lacking the histamine producing enzyme histidine decarboxylase (Hdc). The mutant mice showed a distinct behavioral pattern during exploration of novel environment, specifically, increased frequency of rearing seated against the wall, jumping and head/body shakes. This behavioral phenotype was associated with decreased levels of striatal dopamine and serotonin and increased level of dopamine metabolite DOPAC. Gene expression levels of dynorphin and enkephalin, opioids released by medium spiny neurons of striatal direct and indirect pathways respectively, were lower in Hdc mutant mice than in control animals. A low dose of amphetamine led to similar behavioral and biochemical outcomes in both genotypes. Increased striatal dopamine turnover was observed in Hdc KO mice after treatment with dopamine precursor l‐Dopa. Overall, our study suggests a role for striatal dopamine and opioid peptides in formation of distinct behavioral phenotype of Hdc KO mice.
Phylogeography and cryptic speciation in theMyrmica scabrinodisNylander, 1846 species complex (Hymenoptera: Formicidae), and their conservation implications
Authors: Ebsen Jon R. , Boomsma Jacobus J. , Nash David R.
Published: June 2019

Myrmica scabrinodisis one of the commonest European ant species, but field observations of variable ecology and behaviour have suggested the existence of several ecotypes or even cryptic species within this ant.

To address this hypothesis, we reconstructed the molecular phylogeny ofM.scabrinodisand 15 related species based on 1089 base pairs of mitochondrial genes cytochrome B (Cyt‐B) and cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI).

We show that two major lineages occur throughout Europe. The observed sequence divergence between the twoM.scabrinodislineages is similar to or greater than that observed between the other investigated species.

On a local scale, the lineages are both observed at the wet and dry extremes of the overallM.scabrinodisniche distribution, but analysis of theMyrmicacommunities in two sympatric populations shows that lineage B tends to avoid the drier habitat patches.

Our inferred phylogenetic relationship of intra‐ and inter‐specific mitochondrial lineages within theM.scabrinodisspecies group in general shows several inconsistencies with the presently accepted taxonomy, suggesting the potential existence of more unrecognised cryptic species.

The separate status of other species is not supported, particularly the differentiation betweenMyrmicasabuletiandMyrmicalonae, and specimens identified asMyrmica tulinaehave highly inconsistent mitochondrial haplotypes, suggesting that the morphology associated with this taxon does not reflect phylogeny.

The existence of multiple lineages withinM.scabrinodis, and the apparent synonymy betweenM. lonaeandM.sabuletihas implications for the conservation ofMaculineabutterflies, for which these are major hosts.
The Ministry of the Church to People with Disability
Authors: Nkomazana Fidelis
Published: June 2019

Jesus’ ministry on earth is meant to be a model of the ministry of the church. It affected all types of people regardless of their socio‐economic and religious status. Jesus regarded all to be made in the image of God and did everything possible to minister to everyone. He particularly went out of his way to reach those whom society marginalized, neglected, rejected, and deemed worthless. This study aims at generally critically evaluating the ministry of the church today. It specifically attempts to examine the ministry of the church to people with disabilities. While the study largely depends on existing literature, it also refers to observation of the status of people with disabilities in the church today, which on its own may not provide adequate information for solid, conclusive findings. In the church’s ministry to people with disabilities, dealing with barriers to their inclusion is core. The article not only examines the challenges faced by the church in addressing issues of inclusion, but identifies specific areas of improvement in the status of people with disabilities.
The Mission of the Church to People with Disabilities in Southern and Central Africa
Authors: Amanze James N.
Published: June 2019

Disability has, in recent years, become a focal point of discussion in many parts of the world with the increasing awareness that people with disabilities (PWDs) are disadvantaged because of their condition. Throughout history, PWDs have been relegated to the status of second‐class citizens and in some instances treated inhumanly. In many cultures, particularly in Africa, issues of disability are surrounded by fear because of the strong belief that they are caused by sin, witchcraft, or evil spirits. People with mental challenges are demonized. This has led to a negative attitude toward PWDs in the world generally and in Southern and Central Africa in particular. This paper discusses the mission of the church in this context. It argues that the church must act as a catalyst for change by generating a positive attitude toward PWDs so that they can enjoy fullness of life. This can be achieved by mainstreaming issues of disability in the social, economic, political, and spiritual life of society as a whole.
Reproducibility of masked uncontrolled hypertension detected through home blood pressure monitoring
Authors: Barochiner Jessica , Posadas Martínez María Lourdes , Martínez Rocío , Giunta Diego
Published: June 2019

Masked uncontrolled hypertension (MUCH) is an entity described in treated hypertensive subjects, where office blood pressure (BP) is well controlled and out‐of‐office BP is elevated. It has been related to a higher cardiovascular risk. However, the reproducibility of MUCH has been scarcely studied. In this study, we aimed to determine the reproducibility of MUCH detected through home blood pressure monitoring (HBPM). Two sets of measurements were performed in hypertensive adults under stable treatment with a 1‐week interval. Each set of measurements included three office BP readings and a 4‐day HBPM with duplicate readings in the morning, afternoon, and evening (the same validated oscillometric device was employed in both settings). We determined the percentage of agreement regarding the presence of MUCH in the two sets of measurements and quantified such agreement through the Cohen's kappa coefficient (κ), its 95% confidence interval, andPvalue. We included 105 patients (median age 58.6 [IQR 45.6‐67.2] years old, 53.4% men). MUCH prevalence on at least one occasion was 22.3% (95% CI: 15.2‐31.5). The reproducibility of MUCH was scant:κ = 0.19 (95% CI: 0.0002‐0.38),P = 0.02, due to the poor reproducibility of the office BP component of MUCH in comparison with the home BP component:κ = 0.21 (95% CI: 0.03‐0.39),P = 0.01 vsκ = 0.48 (95% CI 0.29‐0.67),P < 0.001, respectively. In conclusion, the reproducibility of MUCH detected through HBPM is minimal, mainly due to the poor reproducibility of office BP measurements. An HBPM‐based strategy for the management of patients with MUCH may be more adequate in terms of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.
Science policies: How should science funding be allocated? An evolutionary biologists’ perspective
Authors: Meirmans Stephanie , Butlin Roger K. , Charmantier Anne , Engelstädter Jan , Groot Astrid T. , King Kayla C. , Kokko Hanna , Reid Jane M. , Neiman Maurine
Published: June 2019

In an ideal world, funding agencies could identify the best scientists and projects and provide them with the resources to undertake these projects. Most scientists would agree that in practice, how funding for scientific research is allocated is far from ideal and likely compromises research quality. We, nine evolutionary biologists from different countries and career stages, provide a comparative summary of our impressions on funding strategies for evolutionary biology across eleven different funding agencies. We also assess whether and how funding effectiveness might be improved. We focused this assessment on 14 elements within four broad categories: (a) topical shaping of science, (b) distribution of funds, (c) application and review procedures, and (d) incentives for mobility and diversity. These comparisons revealed striking among‐country variation in those elements, including wide variation in funding rates, the effort and burden required for grant applications, and the extent of emphasis on societal relevance and individual mobility. We use these observations to provide constructive suggestions for the future and urge the need to further gather informed considerations from scientists on the effects of funding policies on science across countries and research fields.
Antioxidation and memory protection effects of solid‐state‐fermented rapeseed meal peptides on D‐galactose‐induced memory impairment in aging‐mice
Authors: Ding Qingzhi , Wu Ricardo A. , Yin Litao , Zhang Weiwei , He Ronghai , Zhang Ting , Jiang Hanfei , Luo Lin , Ma Haile , Dai Chunhua
Published: June 2019

This study aims to explore the bioactivity of peptides from solid‐state‐fermented rapeseed meal. Three fragments (RP1, RP2, and RP3) were separated by ultrafiltration after solid‐state fermentation; RP1 (MW ≤3 kDa) showed the highest DPPH scavenging rate (EC50 0.27 mg/mL). Then the protective effect of RP1 contra oxidative stress in aging‐mice induced by d‐galactose was investigated by Morris water maze and biochemical analysis (superoxide dismutase [SOD], glutathione peroxidase [GSH‐Px], and malondialdehyde [MDA]) in mouse brain tissue and blood serum. RP1 suppressed in brain and serum of mice the lipid peroxidation by increasing SOD (127.09 ± 8.05 U/mL) and GSH‐Px (20.04 ± 0.71 U/mL). MDA levels showed decreased values (2.94 ± 0.57 U/mL) with the presence of RP1. Also, RP1 avoided mitochondria dysfunction as shown in the increased amounts of ATP. As a result, it suppressed aging, an adverse effect of d‐galactose in mice. The results suggest that the rapeseed peptides from solid‐state fermentation have a potential for the development of therapeutic products.

Practical applications

Rapeseed meal is the protein‐rich by‐product after oil is removed from the rapeseed. This meal is an important source of proteins which can be used to develop value‐added products and at the same time reducing food waste. However, the presence of anti‐nutritional factors such as glucosinolate, tannin, and phytic acid has limited its utilization. The present study provides a practical application of solid‐state fermentation. In this process microbial fermentation produces proteolytic enzymes able to hydrolyze proteins into peptides and at the same time degrade toxic substances in rapeseed meal. Solid‐state fermentation was able to produce antioxidant peptides from rapeseed meal. These peptides showed in vivo antioxidant and protective effects against memory impairment on d‐galactose‐induced aging‐mice. The results show that solid‐state fermentation may potentially produce healthy value‐added products from rapeseed peptides.
Home safety practices to prevent child injury and its association with family and children's daily routines in Japan: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Honda Chikako , Naruse Takashi , Tsuchiya‐Ito Rumiko , Yamamoto Natsuki , Nagata Satoko
Published: June 2019

Aim

To investigate the association between children and their families' daily life routines and the implementation of safety practices in their homes.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted using a self‐administered questionnaire among parents of 3‐year‐old children, who visited a public health center in Tokyo for their health checkups. Associations between the implementation of safety practices and family and children's basic daily routines were assessed using a multivariate logistic regression.

Results

Data from 336 parents were analyzed. Three items were found to be significantly related to the non‐implementation of safety practices, such as “television‐watching behavior: after 8:00 p.m.” (adjusted odds ratio = 1.88, p = .02), “washing hands: not every time after getting home” (adjusted odds ratio = 2.24, p = .02), and “Family Routines Inventory: lower score” (a measurement of the routinization of a family's daily life; adjusted odds ratio = .83, p = .01).

Conclusion

The cumulative results suggest that the lack of safety practices implementation signify nonadherence to daily routine practices by parents.
Clinical evaluation of the safety and efficacy of a timosaponin A‐III‐based antiwrinkle agent against skin aging
Authors: Im A‐Rang , Seo Young Kyoung , Cho Se Hee , O Kyeong Hee , Kim Ki Mo , Chae Sungwook
Published: June 2019

Background

Timosaponin A‐III (TA‐III) is known to exist in the medicinal herb of Anemarrhena asphodeloides as one of major chemical components.

Aims

The photoprotective properties of TA‐III on UVB‐exposed HaCaT cells were evaluated on the antiwrinkle effects and skin safety in terms of clinical trial.

Methods

The level of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐1, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), and pro‐inflammatory cytokines were measured in HaCaT cells following UVB irradiation. To evaluate the clinical safety of an agent containing 0.25% of TA‐III for use on human skin. Female subjects (n = 21) between the ages of 43 and 55 who met the criteria for subject selection were selected. They were beginning to form or had already formed wrinkles.

Results

UVB irradiation increased MMP‐1 expression and pro‐inflammatory cytokines. These increases were attenuated by TA‐III pretreatment of UVB‐exposed HaCaT cells. We found that the agent containing 0.25% of TA‐III ameliorated skin wrinkling. A comparison between groups showed that wrinkle parameters were significantly reduced after 12 weeks of product use (P < 0.05). According to skin safety result, TA‐III showed no dermatological toxicity was found in participants.

Conclusions

In conclusion, TA‐III could provide protection against photoaging and daily application of TA‐III for 12 weeks significantly reduced signs of facial aging by limiting wrinkle formation.
Case of leiomyosarcoma arising from subserosal leiomyoma
Authors: Yamaguchi Maiko , Kusunoki Soshi , Hirayama Takashi , Fujino Kazunari , Terao Yasuhisa , Itakura Atsuo
Published: June 2019

Uterine leiomyosarcoma (LMS) is a rare tumor. It has not been established if these tumors arise de novo or from pre‐existing leiomyomas (LM). We report a case herein of LMS arising from a subserosal LM. A 47‐year‐old nulliparous woman was diagnosed with a uterine tumor measuring 30 cm in diameter by pelvic magnetic resonance imaging. Serum CA‐125 level was 369 U/mL, and the lactate dehydrogenase level was elevated (565 IU/L, respectively). Positron emission tomography‐computed tomography revealed abnormal uptake (SUVmax = 25.29) of the abdominal tumor. Upon laparotomy, a large tumor with solid and cystic components was shown to arise from a subserosal LM, with invasion into the greater omentum and small intestine. Abdominal hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo‐oophorectomy, omentectomy and small intestine resection were performed. Macroscopic findings showed that the LMS was adherent to a subserosal LM, without continuity between the tumor and the uterus.

Our case supports the hypothesis that LMS can arise from a pre‐existing LM.
Hyperemesis gravidarum causing Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome: A rare complication
Authors: Mishra Vineet V. , Verneker Ruchika A.
Published: June 2019

Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome (WKS) is a rare neurological disorder due to severe thiamine deficiency. It is most prevalent among alcoholics. However in nonalcoholics the prevalence varies from 0.04% to 0.13%. We report a case of WKS due to hyperemesis gravidarum. Primigravida patient with 16 weeks pregnancy with continuous vomiting for 1 month developed Wernicke's encephalopathy which progressed to Korsakoff psychosis. Patient was conservatively managed till term with appropriate thiamine replacement and antipsychotics. She developed oligohydramnios with late intrauterine growth retardation. Elective cesarean was done at 36 weeks. Female child with birth weight of 2.2 kg was born. Hyperemesis is a rare cause of WKS. This patient was inappropriately treated with dextrose and antiemetic without proper thiamine replacement. This case report highlights the importance of thiamine replacement and proper management of hyperemesis gravidarum with a scientific approach to prevent fatal complications like WKS.
The association between mucosal pain and subjective masticatory function in patients with partial removable dental prostheses
Authors: Fueki Kenji , Yoshida‐Kohno Eiko , Inamochi Yuka , Wakabayashi Noriyuki
Published: June 2019

Background

Improvement of masticatory function is critical in prosthetic treatment. Multiple factors are related to patients' perception of chewing ability in denture wearers. However, the associations between such factors and chewing ability have not yet been fully elucidated.

Objective

To investigate the association between mucosal pain and subjective masticatory function in patients with partial removable dental prostheses (PRDPs).

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 333 consecutive patients with PRDPs (mean age 71.2 years, male 33.3%) who were recruited from the prosthetic clinic of a dental hospital in Japan. Patients' perception of chewing ability was evaluated using a food intake questionnaire consisting of 20 items, and chewing difficulty was rated by patients using an 11‐point numerical scale. Participants rated the pain intensity of the denture‐supporting mucosa and oral dryness while chewing. In addition, the bilateral maximal biting force (MBF) was recorded. A structural equation model was used to identify the factors associated with chewing ability and chewing difficulty.

Results

The model indicated that mucosal pain, oral dryness, the number of occluding pairs, the denture type (interim/definitive PRDPs) and the MBF were significant independent predictors of chewing ability and chewing difficulty (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that mucosal pain is a risk factor for impairment of subjective masticatory function in patients with PRDPs. It is clinically important to consider the denture design and to select denture base materials with regard to the prevention of mucosal pain.