bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The genetic architecture of target-site resistance to pyrethroid insecticides in the African malaria vectorsAnopheles gambiaeandAnopheles coluzzii
Authors: Clarkson Chris S. , Miles Alistair , Harding Nicholas J. , Weetman David , Kwiatkowski Dominic , Donnelly Martin ,   The Anopheles gambiae 1000 Genomes Consortium
Published: May 2018

Resistance to pyrethroid insecticides is a major concern for malaria vector control, because these are the compounds used in almost all insecticide-treated bed-nets (ITNs), and are also widely used for indoor residual spraying (IRS). Pyrethroids target the voltage-gated sodium channel (VGSC), an essential component of the mosquito nervous system, but substitutions in the amino acid sequence can disrupt the activity of these insecticides, inducing a resistance phenotype. Here we use Illumina whole-genome sequence data from phase 1 of theAnopheles gambiae1000 Genomes Project (Ag1000G) to provide a comprehensive account of genetic variation in theVgscgene in mosquito populations from eight African countries. In addition to the three known resistance alleles, we describe 20 non-synonymous nucleotide substitutions at appreciable frequency in one or more populations that are previously unknown inAnophelesmosquitoes. Thirteen of these novel alleles were found to occur almost exclusively on haplotypes carrying the knownL995Fresistance allele (L1014F inMusca domesticuscodon numbering), and may enhance or compensate for theL995Fresistance pheno-type. A novel mutation I1527T, which is adjacent to a predicted pyrethroid binding site, was found in tight linkage with either of two alleles causing a V402L substitution, similar to a combination of substitutions found to cause pyrethroid resistance in several other insect species. We analyse the genetic backgrounds on which non-synonymous alleles are found, to determine which alleles have experienced recent positive selection, and to refine our understanding of the spread of resistance between species and geographical locations. We describe twelve distinct haplotype groups with evidence of recent positive selection, five of which carry the knownL995Fresistance allele, five of which carry the knownL995Sresistance allele, one of which carries the novel I1527T allele, and one of which carries a novel M490I allele. Seven of these groups are localised to a single geographical location, and five comprise haplotypes from different countries, in one case separated by over 3000 km, providing new information about the geographical distribution and spread of resistance. We also find evidence for multiple introgression events transmitting resistance alleles betweenAn. gambiaeandAn. coluzzii. We identify markers that could be used to design high-throughput, low-cost genetic assays for improved surveillance of pyrethroid resistance in the field. Our results demonstrate that the molecular basis of target-site pyrethroid resistance in malaria vectors is more complex than previously appreciated, and provide a foundation for the development of new genetic tools to track the spread insecticide resistance and improve the design of strategies for insecticide resistance management.
Capital structure, ownership and crisis: evidence from Middle East and North African banks
Authors: Ghosh Saibal
Published: May 2018

Purpose

Although understanding the capital structure of firms has been quite commonplace in the empirical literature, there is admittedly limited evidence with regard to the determinants of capital structure for banks. In this context, using data for the period 2000-2012, this paper aims to examine the factors affecting the capital structure of Middle East and North African (MENA) banks.

Design/methodology/approach

The data span the period 2000-2012 and comprise of over 100 banks from 12 MENA countries. Given the longitudinal nature of the data, the panel uses panel data techniques and controls for unobserved bank characteristics that might affect capital structure.

Findings

The findings indicate that the factors driving book leverage are similar to those influencing market leverage. These findings refute the conventional wisdom that bank capital structure is purely a response to the regulatory requirements, as otherwise, regulatory concerns would have driven a wedge between these two leverage measures. Second, the crisis appears to have exerted a perceptible impact on bank capital. Third, in terms of ownership, it appears that the crisis-support measures had a salutary effect on Islamic banks, in turn improving their growth opportunities.

Research/limitations/implications

This is the first study to examine the determinants of capital structure for MENA banks and how it evolved during the crisis. By using both book- and market-related measures of capital structure, the study is able to shed light whether regulatory concerns are a major driven of bank capital. As the recent financial crisis indicates, bank failures impose enormous social and economic costs, which are protracted and significant.

Practical implications

From a practical standpoint, the study seeks to inform the policy debate on the role of regulation in impacting bank capital, especially in the light of the envisaged Basel III reforms. In addition, the study suggests that classroom teaching on bank capital needs to be suitably refined to take on board country-specific requirements and, in addition, focus on how such behavior evolved during the crisis.

Originality/value

This is the first study to examine the determinants of capital structure for MENA banks and how it evolved during the crisis. By using both book- and market-related measures of capital structure, the study is able to shed light whether regulatory concerns are a major driven of bank capital. As the recent financial crisis indicates, bank failures impose enormous social and economic costs, which are protracted and significant.
Board characteristics and asymmetric cost behavior: evidence from Egypt
Authors: Ibrahim Awad Elsayed Awad
Published: May 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to provide further evidence on asymmetric cost behavior (cost stickiness) from one of the emerging economies, Egypt. The study provides empirical evidence on the potential impact of corporate governance on nature and extent of asymmetric cost behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

The study estimates three multiple regression models using ordinary least squares to examine the behavior of cost of goods sold (COGS) and the influence of board characteristics and other control variables in a sample of 80 listed companies during 2008-2013.

Findings

The analysis provides evidence on COGS asymmetric behavior, where the analysis finds that COGS increases by 1.05 per cent but decrease by 0.85 per cent for an equivalent activity change of 1 per cent, which contradicts the traditional cost model assumption that costs behave linearly. In addition, the analysis finds that firm-year observations with larger boards, role duality and higher non-executives ratio exhibit greater cost asymmetry than others, while firms-years with successive sales decrease, higher economic growth and institutional ownership found to exhibit lower cost stickiness.

Originality/value

This study contributes by providing evidence on asymmetric cost behavior from one of emerging economies. Further, the study extends the very few studies on the relationship between corporate governance and asymmetric cost behavior. In addition, the study contributes by examining a different cost type (COGS) that has been examined by very few studies. Finally, the study provides an evaluation of the 2007 Egyptian Corporate Governance Code in the cost behavior context.
Construction of capital procurement decision making model to optimize supplier selection using Fuzzy Delphi and AHP-DEMATEL
Authors: Kumar Anil , Pal Amit , Vohra Ashwani , Gupta Sachin , Manchanda Suryakant , Dash Manoj Kumar
Published: May 2018

Purpose

Supplier selection for capital procurement is a major strategic decision for any automobile company. The decision determines the success of the company and must be taken systematically with the utmost transparency. The purpose of this paper is to construct capital procurement decision-making model to optimize supplier selection in the Indian automobile industry.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve the stated objective, a combined approach of fuzzy theory and AHP-DEMATEL is applied. Evaluation parameters are identified through an extensive literature review and criteria validation has been introduced through a Fuzzy Delphi method by using fuzzy linguistic scales to handle the vagueness of information. AHP is employed to find the priority weight of criteria, although an inter-relationship map among criteria is not possible through AHP alone since it considers all criteria as independent. To overcome this, DEMATEL is used to establish cause-effect relationships among criteria.

Findings

The results show that the total cost of ownership (TOC) is the first weighted criterion in supplier selection for capital procurement, followed by manufacturing flexibility and maintainability, then conformity with requirement. The cause-effect model shows that supplier profile, TOC, service support and conformity with requirement are in the cause group and are considered to be the most critical factors in selecting the supplier.

Originality/value

The study’s outcome can help the automobile industry to optimize their selection process in selecting their suppliers for capital procurement; the proposed model can provide guidelines and direction in this regard.
Influence of bank’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives on consumer attitude and satisfaction in India
Authors: Paluri Ratna Achuta , Mehra Saloni
Published: May 2018

Purpose

Research on corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities and consumer perception of CSR activities is increasing over the recent past. The purpose of this paper is to gain an understanding of the consumer perceptions of CSR activities of banks in India. It provides insights on whether consumers want their banks to take up CSR initiatives and would these perceptions influence their attitude towards the bank.

Design/methodology/approach

Self-report questionnaires were personally administered by the researchers and their team. Respondents’ responses were based on their awareness of their bank’s involvement in CSR initiatives. The study uses convenience sampling, given the resource limitations. The research was conducted in the city of Nashik, India during June–October 2015.

Findings

The results of the study show that consumer perception towards the CSR activities of the bank influenced their attitude and satisfaction. Though consumers expressed a need for their bank’s taking up CSR initiatives, this need did not influence their attitude towards the bank, contradicting studies in the past. Consumer perception of the bank’s involvement in the CSR activities was moderate, indicating that banks need to increase their communication about the CSR initiatives undertaken by them.

Practical implications

Unique contribution of current research is that the CSR reputation and CSR concern of consumers in the Indian context have been investigated for their influence on consumer attitude. Unlike previous studies, CSR concern does not influence consumer attitude or satisfaction. Findings provide important insights for practitioners and academicians focussing on the banking sector in India.

Originality/value

Little research is reported on consumer perception of CSR in banking sector. Current research tries to fill this gap.
Cluster strategy and supply chain management
Authors: Ikram Amir , Su Qin , Fiaz Muhammad , Rehman Ramiz Ur
Published: May 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to highlight the characteristic role of specialized markets and traders in the internationalization of emerging economies by examining the linkages between supply chain management (SCM) and industrial clustering in China.

Design/methodology/approach

Multi-method approach was employed as primary data were collected from a case study of Shaoxing textile cluster, and was supplemented with secondary data to triangulate the findings. The proposition that competitive advantages of industrial clusters facilitate effective SCM was explored.

Findings

The authors reveal that China’s cost advantage is manifested in the entire value chain. The provision of business friendly amenities as a result of synergetic benefits of vertical and horizontal integration of supply clusters promotes competitiveness of SMEs and region as a whole. Moreover, specialized markets and international traders found to play significant role in sustainable cluster development.

Research limitations/implications

As with fieldwork and case studies, generalization should be drawn with care. Systematic synthesis of relevant case studies is recommended.

Practical implications

The study endorses the construction of local supply chains and suggests implementation of cluster strategy by focusing on environment-specific execution of triple helix model.

Originality/value

The article elaborates the linkages between cluster theory and SCM both within cluster and between interspersed clusters. It also explains how specialized markets and global players are enabling concentrated supply networks. The paper recommends extension of “Triple helix + 1 model” by making local community part of the underlying framework.
Impact of organizational culture on quality management practices: an empirical investigation
Authors: Patyal Vishal Singh , Koilakuntla Maddulety
Published: May 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to empirically examine the organizational culture (OC) of the competing values framework (CVF) on quality management (QM) practices. Specifically, it tests OC on two views, QM practices, i.e. the infrastructure quality and core QM practices.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed hypotheses were tested using empirical data drawn from 262 manufacturing organizations in India. The research model developed was analyzed using structural equation modeling technique.

Findings

The findings of this study revealed that the hierarchical and rational cultures are the dominant types of culture, and top management commitment and Six Sigma structure are the most important aspects of the infrastructure and core QM practices in Indian manufacturing organizations. Further, the results of the study showed that group culture and development culture are the most supportive culture types for both infrastructure and core QM practices. On the contrary, hierarchical and rational culture types are the least supportive for infrastructure and core QM practices. The study proposes the need for the mixed culture approach that facilitates the adoption of business strategies

Practical implications

Before implementing infrastructure and core QM practices, managers must understand the importance of cultural values in their organization to facilitate effective implementation of QM.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the existing literature by providing empirical evidence leading to the relationship between OC and QM practices. This is the first study that empirically examined the Indian cultural context using CVF, thus contributing to the scarce body of literature particularly in the developing countries.
Tales of the Frenchfry: on Cannabis and uphill battles
Authors: Fry Julie P.
Published: May 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to disclose the author’s personal experiences regarding the war on drugs, specifically detailing cannabis encounters.

Design/methodology/approach

This work is autobiographical, with notes of science-based fact.

Findings

Cannabis could be the gateway to the end of the war on drugs.

Social implications

The hope for this publication is to explain some of the author’s hope is that by sharing the author’s personal story, people will rally behind the cause of cannabis legalisation and legitimisation; resources are included at the bottom of the document.

Originality/value

It is the author’s story, so hopefully it is original.
Social value and online social shopping intention: the moderating role of experience
Authors: Wu Wei , Huang Vivian , Chen Xiayu , Davison Robert M. , Hua Zhongsheng
Published: May 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore how the shoppers’ social value perception affects their purchase intention in online shopping context through its distinct role and relationships with other value dimensions. The moderating effect of the characteristics of other members on the relationship among value dimensions and the difference of value perception between experienced and inexperienced members were also tested to identify the boundary conditions of the proposed model.

Design/methodology/approach

The survey included 272 consumers from a well-known social shopping website in China to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The results indicate that hedonic and utilitarian value fully mediate the relationship between social value and purchase intention. Perceived expertise positively moderates the relationship between social value and the other two values. In particular, the results found that while inexperienced members can acquire both higher utilitarian and hedonic value from social value and their purchase intention relies more on the hedonic value, experienced members place greater emphasis on the utilitarian value.

Practical implications

The results may help vendors regain confidence in the social shopping business mode and offer specific policy implications on how to leverage shoppers’ social value perception to generate their purchase intention in a social shopping context.

Originality/value

This study focuses on the legitimacy of the independent role of social value and sheds light on the relationships among social value and other value dimensions based on social capital theory, which was under-explored by previous studies. Besides, this study clarifies the moderating role of experience, which highlights the previously unnoticed changing role of consumers’ value perception.
Emerging Association Between Parathyroid Hormone and Anemia in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Tanaka Motoko , Komaba Hirotaka , Fukagawa Masafumi
Published: May 2018

Anemia is a common complication of chronic kidney disease (CKD). There are various causes of renal anemia such as decreased production of erythropoietin, resistance to erythropoietin, shortened survival of red blood cells, and bone marrow fibrosis. Secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) is a less recognized, but potentially significant cause of renal anemia in CKD patients. Parathyroid hormone (PTH) has been regarded as a uremic toxin that has multiple adverse effects, and its elevated levels have been associated with renal anemia in hemodialysis patients. Moreover, recent clinical studies have shown that the treatment of SHPT using either vitamin D receptor activators, calcimimetics, or parathyroidectomy leads to improvement of anemia, supporting the role of PTH in renal anemia. Emerging data have also indicated the involvement of bone‐derived fibroblast growth factor 23 in renal anemia. This review summarizes recent insights into the role of PTH in renal anemia and discusses the importance of treating SHPT in improving the control of renal anemia in hemodialysis patients.
Gaps in predicting clinical doses for cannabinoids therapy: Overview of issues for pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics modelling
Authors: Liu Zheng , Martin Jennifer H.
Published: May 2018

Model‐based prediction on clinical doses for cannabinoids therapy is beneficial in the clinical setting, especially for seriously ill patients with both altered pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamic responses. The objective of this article is to review the currently available PK and/or PD models of Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) and to highlight the major issues for modelling this complex therapeutic area. A systematic search was conducted in the electronic databases PubMed and EMBASE using the key words ‘cannabis’, ‘cannabinoid’, ‘tetrahydrocannabinol’, ‘THC’, ‘cannabidiol’, ‘CBD’, ‘pharmacokinetic model’, ‘pharmacodynamics model’ and their combinations. Twelve empirical PK and/or PD models for THC for humans were identified. Among them, ten were developed from data of healthy participants and two were from ill patients. Models for CBD were not found. Model‐based prediction on appropriate doses for cannabinoids therapy for ill patients is currently limited due to insufficiency of relevant PK and PD data. High‐quality PK and PD data of cannabinoids for patients with different illnesses is needed for model development. Mechanism‐based PK and PD models are promising for improved predictive dosing performance for ill and comorbid patients.
The use of complementary and alternative medicines during breastfeeding: results from the Herbal supplements in Breastfeeding InvesTigation (HaBIT) study
Authors: Bettiol Alessandra , Lombardi Niccolò , Marconi Ettore , Crescioli Giada , Bonaiuti Roberto , Maggini Valentina , Gallo Eugenia , Mugelli Alessandro , Firenzuoli Fabio , Ravaldi Claudia , Vannacci Alfredo
Published: May 2018

Aims

The use of complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) during breastfeeding is increasing, mainly because of their presumed greater safety compared with conventional medications. However, CAMs can cause serious adverse effects, and there is limited high‐quality evidence supporting their use during lactation. In Italy, specific investigations on the attitude of lactating women towards CAMs are lacking. The Herbal supplements in Breastfeeding InvesTigation (HaBIT) study aimed to explore attitudes to and knowledge on CAMs among lactating women.

Methods

A web‐based survey was conducted over a 6‐year period among lactating women resident in Tuscany, Italy. Data on lactating behaviour, CAMs use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and women's knowledge about the efficacy and safety of CAMs were collected.

Results

A total of 388 lactating women answered the questionnaire. The majority of them were primiparae, with a high educational level. Of these, 204 women declared themselves to have used CAMs during breastfeeding. Moreover, 61% and 48% of subjects reported also using CAMs before and during pregnancy, respectively. A significant proportion of subjects were unable to identify correctly the types of CAMs they were using. Seventy‐three per cent of women were convinced that CAMs were equally safe or safer than conventional medications; nevertheless, 65% of women admitted to have no scientific information about the potential risks of CAMs, and 14 CAMs users reported that they had experienced side effects.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate the need for healthcare providers to increase the awareness of breastfeeding women about CAMs. Further research is needed to support the evidence base for nonpharmaceutical approaches for symptom control during breastfeeding.
Risk factors for vitamin D deficiency in sickle cell disease
Authors: Han Jin , Zhang Xu , Saraf Santosh L. , Gowhari Michel , Molokie Robert E. , Hassan Johara , Jain Shivi , Shah Binal N. , Abbasi Taimur , Machado Roberto F. , Gordeuk Victor R.
Published: May 2018

Vitamin D deficiency (VDD), 25‐OHD levels <20 ng/ml, is prevalent among patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) and is linked to acute and chronic pain and bone fracture in this population. There is limited literature regarding VDD‐associated risk factors for SCD. We examined potential clinical and genomic parameters associated with VDD in 335 adults with SCD in a cross‐sectional study. VDD was present in 65% of adult SCD patients, and 25‐OHD levels independently and positively correlated with older age (P < 0·001) and vitamin D supplementation (P < 0·001). 25‐OHD levels were higher in SCD patients over 40 years of age compared to the general African‐American population. Both lower 25‐OHD levels and increased pain frequency were associated with increased expression of SLC6A5 encoding glycine transporter‐2 (GlyT2), a protein involved in neuronal pain pathways. Lower 25‐OHD levels were also associated with increased expression of CYP3A4, and with decreased expression of GC (also termed DBP) and VDR, three genes involved in vitamin D metabolism. We conclude that vitamin D supplementation should be an almost universal feature of the care of young adults with SCD, and that further research is warranted into genomic factors that regulate vitamin D metabolism in SCD.
How i treat primary haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis
Authors: Marsh Rebecca A. , Haddad Elie
Published: May 2018

Primary haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) diseases are a collection of inherited genetic disorders that cause the syndrome of HLH. Great advances have been made in the last 20 years with regard to the discovery of many of the genetic aetiologies of disease. Several advances have also been made on the clinical stage. Accurate screening diagnostics for primary HLH diseases that are superior to traditional Natural Killer cell function testing have been developed and are now available in many countries. There is now grounded clinical experience on which to base routine treatment decisions for patients with HLH. Newer approaches to allogeneic haematopoietic cell transplantation have increased overall patient survival. Despite these advances, however, there is still much work to be done to further improve patient care. This ‘How I Treat’ article will focus on summarizing current diagnostic, treatment and transplant strategies for patients with primary HLH diseases.
The use of serum free light chain dimerization patterns assist in the diagnosis of AL amyloidosis
Authors: Gatt Moshe E. , Kaplan Batia , Yogev Dean , Slyusarevsky Elana , Pogrebijski Galina , Golderman Sizilia , Kukuy Olga , Livneh Avi
Published: May 2018

The discrimination between benign and malignant forms of plasma cell dyscrasia (PCD) is often difficult. Free light chain monomer‐dimer pattern analysis (FLC‐MDPA) may assist in solving this dilemma and distinguish between AL amyloidosis and benign PCD. Serum samples of patients with AL amyloidosis and benign PCD were analysed in a blinded manner. Quantitative Western blotting was performed to estimate dimerization and clonality indices, and thereby determine the source of the tested samples, as derived either from benign or malignant PCD. The findings obtained by the FLC‐MDPA were compared with the actual diagnosis. Of 37 samples from patients with active AL amyloidosis, 34 (91·9%) fulfilled dimerization criteria for diagnosis of AL amyloidosis. Of the 45 samples from patients with benign PCD, 10 (21·2%) tested falsely positive or gave an inconclusive result. Thus, the sensitivity of the analysis was 92·5% with a remarkable negative predictive value of 91·9%. In addition, of 20 patients who were in complete or very good partial remission, only one tested positive. By multivariate analysis, FLC‐MDPA was the best independent marker predicting AL amyloidosis (odds ratio of 84). The FLC‐MDPA offers a highly effective tool in the diagnostic assessment of patients with PCD.
Changing practice cultures in statutory child protection: Practitioners' perspectives
Authors: Cortis Natasha , Smyth Ciara , Wade Catherine , Katz Ilan
Published: May 2018

Many child protection systems struggle to implement effective models of frontline practice in the context of high caseloads, increasing costs, and compliance‐focused bureaucratic cultures. This article discusses changes brought about by “Practice First,” a framework for practice introduced to improve the quality and effectiveness of child protection work in New South Wales, Australia. Findings drawn from quantitative and qualitative research with practitioners show that the initiative was effective in changing cultures of practice. It enabled workers to spend more face‐to‐face time with families and build relationships and was perceived to improve the quality of decision‐making. At the same time, the article highlights difficulties in attempting to embed change in practice cultures when broader systemic challenges persist.
Overlapping but distinct roles for NOTCH receptors in human cardiovascular disease
Authors: Meester J.A.N. , Verstraeten A. , Alaerts M. , Schepers D. , Van Laer L. , Loeys B.L.
Published: May 2018

The NOTCH signalling pathway is an essential pathway, involved in many cellular processes, including cell fate decision, cell proliferation, and cell death and important in the development of most organs. Mutations in genes encoding components of the NOTCH signalling pathway lead to a spectrum of congenital disorders. Over the past decades, mutations in human NOTCH signalling genes have been identified in several diseases with cardiovascular involvement. NOTCH1 mutations have been described in bicuspid aortic valve disease, left‐sided congenital heart disease, and Adams‐Oliver syndrome. NOTCH2 mutations lead to the development of Alagille syndrome, while mutations in NOTCH3 cause cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy. To date, mutations in NOTCH4 have not been associated with cardiovascular disease. This review focuses on the mutations described in NOTCH1, NOTCH2, and NOTCH3 and their associated cardiovascular phenotypes.
The effect of light intensity on image quality in endoscopic ear surgery
Authors: McCallum R. , McColl J. , Iyer A.
Published: May 2018

Objectives

Endoscopic ear surgery is a rapidly developing field with many advantages. But endoscopes can reach temperatures of over 110°C at the tip, raising safety concerns. Reducing the intensity of the light source reduces temperatures produced. However, quality of images at lower light intensities has not yet been studied. We set out to study the effect of light intensity on image quality in EES.

Design

Prospective study of patients undergoing EES from April to October 2016. Consecutive images of the same operative field at 10%, 30%, 50% and 100% light intensities were taken. Eight international experts were asked to each evaluate 100 anonymised, randomised images.

Setting

District General Hospital.

Participants

Twenty patients.

Main Outcome Measures

Images were evaluated on a 5‐point Likert scale (1 = significantly worse than average; 5 = significantly better than average) for detail of anatomy; colour contrast; overall quality; and suitability for operating.

Results

Mean scores for photographs at 10%, 30%, 50% and 100% light intensity were 3.22 (SD 0.93), 3.15 (SD 0.84), 3.08 (SD 0.88) and 3.10 (SD 0.86), respectively. In ANOVA models for the scores on each of the scales (anatomy, colour contrast, overall quality and suitability for operating), the effects of rater and patient were highly significant (P < .0005) but light intensity was non‐significant (P = .34, .32, .21, .15, respectively).

Conclusion

Images taken during surgery by our endoscope and operative camera have no loss of quality when taken at lower light intensities. We recommend the surgeon considers use of lower light intensities in endoscopic ear surgery.
Deceptively bland cutaneous angiosarcoma on the nose mimicking hemangioma—A clinicopathologic and immunohistochemical analysis
Authors: Mitteldorf Christina , Llamas‐Velasco Mar , Schulze Hans‐Joachim , Thoms Kai‐Martin , Mentzel Thomas , Tronnier Michael , Kutzner Heinz
Published: May 2018

Background

We investigated 2 cases of deceptively bland cutaneous angiosarcoma (AS), which showed a uniform clinical presentation with a rapidly growing tumor on the nose. It remains unclear whether this was a primary cutaneous manifestation or a metastasis. Both tumors initially presented a high histologic overlap with a benign vascular tumor. The diagnosis was primarily based on the rapidly progressing clinical course and on the results of the staging procedures.

Methods

Immunohistochemical stains were performed for cytokeratin (AE1/AE3 and MNF116), CD31, ERG, CD34 (HPCA1/my10), D2‐40/podoplanin, LYVE‐1, Ki67, PHH3, αSMA (1A4), MYC, FOS‐B, CAMTA‐1, TFE‐3, WT1, nestin, VEGFR‐2(KDR), VEGFR‐3(FLT4), HHV8. MYC amplification was also investigated by fluorescence in situ hybridization.

Results

The tumor cells were negative for MYC and revealed no D2‐40/podoplanin expression. SMA‐positive pericytes formed rims around the vessel. The proliferative activity (Ki‐67) was elevated, in one case only in a later stage.

Discussion

Cutaneous ASs can be rather bland and may easily be mistaken for benign vascular tumors. Both cases presented a uniform clinical picture, which implied a malignant vascular tumor. In contrast, the cytomorphology of the endothelial cells and the immunohistochemical profile were not suspicious. We worked out subtle histological criteria, which should allow an early detection of such tumors.
Species traits suggest European mammals facing the greatest climate change are also least able to colonize new locations
Authors: Morrison Lisbeth , Estrada Alba , Early Regan
Published: May 2018

Aim

The risk climate change poses to biodiversity is often estimated by forecasting the areas that will be climatically suitable for species in the future and measuring the distance of the “range shifts” species would have to make to reach these areas. Species’ traits could indicate their capacity to undergo range shifts. However, it is not clear how range‐shift capacity influences risk. We used traits from a recent evidence review to measure the relative potential of species to track changing climatic conditions.

Location

Europe.

Time period

Baseline period (1961–1990) and forecast period (2035–2064).

Major taxa studied

62 mammal species.

Methods

We modelled species distributions using two general circulation models and two representative concentration pathways (RCPs) to calculate three metrics of “exposure” to climate change: range area gained, range area lost and distance moved by the range margin. We identified traits that could inform species’ range‐shift capacity (i.e., potential to establish new populations and proliferate, and thus undertake range shifts), from a recent evidence‐based framework. The traits represent ecological generalization and reproductive strategy. We ranked species according to each metric of exposure and range‐shift capacity, calculating sensitivity to ranking methods, and synthesized both exposure and range‐shift capacity into “risk syndromes.”

Results

Many species studied whose survival depends on colonizing new areas were relatively unlikely to undergo range shifts. Under the worst‐case scenario, 62% of species studied were relatively highly exposed. 47% were highly exposed and had relatively low range‐shift capacity. Only 14% of species faced both low exposure and high range‐shift capacity. Both range‐shift and exposure metrics had a greater effect on risk assessments than climate models.

Main conclusions

The degree to which species’ potential ranges will be altered by climate change often does not correspond to species’ range‐shift capacities. Both exposure and range‐shift capacity should be considered when evaluating biodiversity risk from climate change.
Development of a novel humanoid‐robot simulator for endoscope with pharyngeal reflex and real‐life responses
Authors: Ueki Masaru , Uehara Kazutake , Isomoto Hajime
Published: May 2018

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Genetic evidence of hybridization of the world's most endangered tern, the Chinese Crested TernThalasseus bernsteini
Authors: Yang Jia , Chen Guoling , Yuan Leyang , Huang Qin , Fan Zhongyong , Lu Yiwei , Liu Yang , Chen Shuihua
Published: May 2018

We collected multi‐locus data to test whether hybridization has occurred between a critically endangered waterbird, the Chinese Crested TernThalasseus bernsteini, and the Greater Crested TernThalasseus bergii. Phylogenetic analysis shows these two tern species are sister species, having diverged < 1 million years ago. Our findings suggest a grave threat to the survival of the Chinese Crested Tern, and illustrate the need for conservation managers to monitor further hybridization of this endangered tern species.
Violence committed against nursing staff by patients in psychiatric outpatient settings
Authors: Konttila Jenni , Pesonen Hanna‐Mari , Kyngäs Helvi
Published: May 2018

Violence against nurses has increased particularly in psychiatric outpatient settings as psychiatric care shifts from being inpatient‐based to being outpatient‐based. Violence is a complex phenomenon that must be explored in different psychiatric nursing environments and settings. Violence in psychiatric outpatient settings should especially be explored as violence in this context has scarcely been examined. The aim of this systematic review was to elucidate violence committed against nursing staff by patients in adult psychiatric outpatient settings, based on reports from previous studies. A literature search was conducted in the CINAHL (EBSCO), Ovid MEDLINE, and PsycARTICLES (Ovid) databases. Fourteen studies emerged after the selection and quality assessment process. These studies indicated that violence in psychiatric outpatient settings is a multidimensional phenomenon comprising the reasons for, forms of, and consequences of violence. Reasons for violence could be related to the patient as well as to nursing staff. In psychiatric outpatient settings, verbal violence was the most common form of violence, and violence most frequently led to psychological consequences for nursing staff. The findings of this review highlight the importance of nursing staff developing skills and interventions for managing different kinds of violent situations. Given the multidimensional consequences of violence, attention must be given to the occupational well‐being and coping ability of nursing staff at work. Furthermore, it would be worthwhile to compare cultural and intercountry differences of violent exposures in psychiatric outpatient settings.
ICT‐equipped bank boat and the financial inclusion of the riverine population of Marajó Island in the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Joia Luiz Antonio , dos Santos Ricardo Paschoeto
Published: May 2018

The challenge in offering public services in less developed areas in Brazil has mobilized the government in search of new and creative approaches that can reduce major interregional disparities, including lack of access to the financial system, which is the prevailing situation on Marajó Island in the state of Pará in the Brazilian Amazon. To transform this reality, an information and communication technology (ICT)–equipped travelling bank branch installed on a boat—named Agência Barco—was designed for the purpose of meeting the financial needs of the riverine population that lives in a vast territory with low population density, marked transportation difficulties, and a limited supply of ICT. Thus, this research aims to assess the impact of this bank boat in the financial inclusion of a riverine population of Marajó Island in the state of Pará, which is the unit of analysis of this work. The research outcomes indicate that Agência Barco, via ICT, has partially managed to provide access to financial products and services that might be of interest to the riverine population of Marajó Island. However, the lack of basic financial education and context‐based issues related to the ICT infrastructure has been obstacles to the financial inclusion of this riverine population. Finally, the absence of involvement of local people in this endeavour has not stimulated dynamics of empowerment and participation that could lead to sustainable financial inclusion.
Phylogeography, evolutionary history and effects of glaciations in a species (Zootoca vivipara) inhabiting multiple biogeographic regions
Authors: Horreo Jose L. , Pelaez Maria L. , Suárez Teresa , Breedveld Merel C. , Heulin Benoit , Surget‐Groba Yann , Oksanen Tuula A. , Fitze Patrick S.
Published: May 2018

Aim

During glaciations, the distribution of temperate species inhabiting the Northern Hemisphere generally contracts into southern refugia; and in boreo‐alpine species of the Northern Hemisphere, expansion from Northern refugia is the general rule. Little is known about the drivers explaining vast distributions of species inhabiting multiple biogeographic regions (major biogeographic regions defined by the European Environmental Agency). Here we investigate the fine‐scale phylogeography and evolutionary history of the Eurasian common lizard (Zootoca vivipara), the terrestrial reptile with the world's widest and highest latitudinal distribution, that inhabits multiple biogeographic regions.

Location

Eurasia.

Methods

We generated the largest molecular dataset to date of Z. vivipara, ran phylogenetic analyses, reconstructed its evolutionary history, determined the location of glacial refuges and reconstructed ancestral biogeographic regions.

Results

The phylogenetic analyses revealed a complex evolutionary history, driven by expansions and contractions of the distribution due to glacials and interglacials, and the colonization of new biogeographic regions by all lineages of Z. vivipara. Many glacial refugia were detected, most were located close to the southern limit of the Last Glacial Maximum. Two subclades recolonized large areas covered by permafrost during the last glaciation: namely, Western and Northern Europe and North‐Eastern Europe and Asia.

Main conclusions

In Z. vivipara, most of the glacial refugia were located in the South of their current distribution. Previous studies suggested the existence of Northern refuges, but the species' inability to overwinter on permafrost and the lack of genetic support suggest that the presence of a refugia in the north of the Alps is unlikely. This species currently inhabits boreo‐alpine climates and retracted during previous glaciations into southern refugia, as temperate species. Two clades exhibited enormous geographic expansion that started from two distinct glacial refugia. These phylogeographic patterns were highly congruent with those of Vipera berus. Together they suggest that glacial retraction, the location of the refugia and absence of competition may have promoted the enormous geographic expansion of two clades.
Dysregulated plasma glucagon levels in Japanese young adult type 1 diabetes patients
Authors: Kawamori Dan , Katakami Naoto , Takahara Mitsuyoshi , Miyashita Kazuyuki , Sakamoto Fumie , Yasuda Tetsuyuki , Matsuoka Taka‐aki , Shimomura Iichiro
Published: May 2018

Currently, the clinical dynamics of glucagon need to be revised based on previous data obtained from conventional glucagon radioimmunoassays. In the present study, we evaluated plasma glucagon levels in type 1 diabetes patients using a newly‐developed sandwich enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, and its association with clinical parameters and markers of diabetes complications were statistically assessed. The plasma glucagon level in 77 Japanese type 1 diabetes patients was 28.1 ± 17.7 pg/mL, and comparable with that reported previously for type 2 diabetes patients. However, the values were widely spread and did not correlate with plasma glucose values. Additionally, the average glucagon levels in patients in a hypoglycemic state (glucose level <80 mg/dL) did not increase (21.7 ± 12.2 pg/mL). The average glucagon level of patients experiencing hypoglycemia unawareness was significantly lower. Plasma glucagon levels evaluated using the new enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay were dysregulated in type 1 diabetes patients in respect to plasma glucose levels, suggesting dysregulation of secretion.
Carbohydrate knowledge, lifestyle and insulin: an observational study of their association with glycaemic control in adults with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Smythe K. , Saw M. , Mak M. , Wong V. W.
Published: May 2018

Background

The ability to achieve optimal glycaemic control varies widely among individuals with type 1 diabetes. The present study aimed to explore the factors that are associated with optimal glycaemic control compared to suboptimal control.

Methods

An observational study design was used to explore the association of various factors with glycaemic control. Surveys were completed by individuals who attended the type 1 diabetes clinic at a tertiary hospital in New South Wales (NSW), Australia. Clinical and demographic information and attendance at dietary review were also collected.

Results

One hundred and three individuals completed the survey. Those with optimal control [glycated haemoglobin ≤7.0% (53 mmol mol−1)] had a significantly shorter mean (SD) duration of diabetes [10.1 (12.6) years versus 18.8 (12.8) years, P = 0.005), were less likely to omit basal and bolus insulin (18.2% versus 47.5%, P = 0.016; 36.4% versus 61.8%, P = 0.034, respectively), and were less likely to report low confidence in managing their diabetes (9.1% versus 35.4%, P = 0.017). Participants who were able to identify carbohydrate sources were significantly more likely to have attended dietary review in the past 12 months (60.5% versus 20.0%, P = 0.001). However, they were not more likely to have better glycaemic control.

Conclusions

The present study identified that consistency in taking insulin and confidence in self‐management was associated with better glycaemic control. An association was also found between recent dietary review and better carbohydrate knowledge, although this did not translate into better glycaemic control. Future investigation into the application of carbohydrate knowledge is required.
Association between expression of MMP‐7 and MMP‐9 and pelvic lymph node and para‐aortic lymph node metastasis in early cervical cancer
Authors: Guo Hui , Dai Yifei , Wang Anna , Wang Chunyan , Sun Lili , Wang Zheng
Published: May 2018

Aims

To investigate the association of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐7 and MMP‐9 with pelvic lymph node and para‐aortic lymph node metastasis in early cervical cancer.

Methods

A total of 137 patients with early cervical cancer (Stage Ia2‐IIa2) were recruited from the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tumor Hospital of Liaoning Province from January 2009 to May 2014. We evaluated the expression of MMP‐7 and MMP‐9 by immunohistochemistry and their association with the clinicopathological parameters such as pelvic, common iliac and para‐aortic lymph node metastasis. Spearman correlation was performed to analyze the correlation between MMP‐7 and MMP‐9 in cervical cancer. Finally, the areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) of MMP‐7 and MMP‐9 in pelvic lymph node metastasis were assessed.

Results

MMP‐7 expression was significantly higher in patients with adenocarcinomas and adenosquamous carcinomas (P = 0.014), vascular cancer embolus (P = 0.041), pelvic lymph node metastasis (P = 0.000) and a higher level of Ki‐67 (P = 0.000). MMP‐9 expression was significantly associated with vascular cancer embolus (P = 0.003), depth of stromal invasion (P = 0.001), pelvic lymph node metastasis (P = 0.003), common iliac lymph node metastasis (P = 0.001) and para‐aortic lymph nodes metastasis (P = 0.004). Coexpression of MMP‐7 and MMP‐9 was significantly associated with vascular cancer embolus (P < 0.001), higher expression of Ki‐67 (P < 0.001) and pelvic lymph node metastasis (P < 0.001). Spearman correlation analysis indicated a positive correlation between MMP‐7 and MMP‐9 (r = 0.263, P = 0.002). Areas under the ROC of MMP‐7 and MMP‐9 were 0.707 and 0.646, respectively.

Conclusion

MMP‐7 and MMP‐9 expressions were associated with lymph node metastasis in patients with early cervical cancers, suggesting a positive correlation of MMP‐7 and MMP‐9 with invasive potential in early cervical cancers.