bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of keratinases from Fervidobacterium islandicum AW‐1 using dynamic gene expression profiling
Authors: Kang Eunju , Jin Hyeon‐Su , La Jae Won , Sung Jae‐Yoon , Park Soo‐Young , Kim Won‐Chan , Lee Dong‐Woo
Published: October 2019

Keratin degradation is of great interest for converting agro‐industrial waste into bioactive peptides and is directly relevant for understanding the pathogenesis of superficial infections caused by dermatophytes. However, the mechanism of this process remains unclear. Here, we obtained the complete genome sequence of a feather‐degrading, extremely thermophilic bacterium, Fervidobacterium islandicum AW‐1 and performed bioinformatics‐based functional annotation. Reverse transcription PCR revealed that 57 putative protease‐encoding genes were differentially expressed in substrate‐dependent manners. Consequently, 16 candidate genes were highly expressed under starvation conditions, when keratin degradation begun. Subsequently, the dynamic expression profiles of these 16 selected genes in response to feathers, as determined via quantitative real‐time PCR, suggested that they included four metalloproteases and two peptidases including an ATP‐dependent serine protease, all of which might act as key players in feather decomposition. Furthermore, in vitro keratinolytic assays supported the notion that recombinant enzymes enhanced the decomposition of feathers in the presence of cell extracts. Therefore, our genome‐based systematic and dynamic expression profiling demonstrated that these identified metalloproteases together with two additional peptidases might be primarily associated with the decomposition of native feathers, suggesting that keratin degradation can be achieved via non‐canonical catalysis of several membrane‐associated metalloproteases in cooperation with cytosolic proteases.
Fibromyalgia, sleep disturbance and menopause: Is there a relationship? A literature review
Authors: Dias Rejane Camila Alvarenga , Kulak Junior Jaime , Ferreira da Costa Eloise Haydeê , Nisihara Renato Mitsunori
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Fibromyalgia (FM) symptoms worsen in a significant portion of patients with the onset of menopause. Some patients report that their symptoms begin after menopause, suggesting a relationship between these entities. Sleep disturbance is a common condition in FM and menopause, and it is associated with chronic pain.

Methods/Objectives

Several electronic databases were searched, from the first available year to April 2018 to evaluate the publications that assessed the effects of menopause and sleep disturbance on the appearance or worsening of FM and the role of hormone therapy for these patients.

Results

The results are summarized in three tables. The objective sleep patterns of FM patients included high sleep latency, frequent arousals and intrusion of alpha wave sleep and NREM (non‐rapid eye movement) sleep in delta sleep. Poor sleep during menopause is more frequent in late perimenopause and surgical menopause, and may be related to vasomotor symptoms or not. Hormone therapy exerted a positive effect on subjective sleep quality of symptomatic menopausal women. Studies have shown a high association between FM and early and surgical menopause. Raloxifene exerted a positive effect on pain and sleep in FM patients; however one study that analyzed the effects of transdermal estrogen therapy found no improvement in subjective and objective parameters of pain.

Conclusion

Further studies are needed to elucidate the nature of the association between menopause, sleep and persistent pain syndromes, such as FM, showing the role of hormone therapy in prospective placebo‐controlled trials.
Think before you prescribe: how dentistry contributes to antibiotic resistance
Authors: Sukumar S , Martin FE , Hughes TE , Adler CJ
Published: October 2019

Antibiotic resistance presents a daunting challenge to health professionals worldwide and has the potential to create major problems for modern health care, resulting in more medical expenditure, extended hospital stays and increased morbidity and mortality. Advanced genome sequencing technologies present a complex picture of resistance, extending our understanding beyond the pharmacotherapeutic interface between pathogens and antibiotics. This review discusses the global scope and scale of antibiotic resistance and contextualizes it for the dental practitioner, emphasizing the role we must play in limiting the progression of resistance through antibiotic stewardship and disease prevention.
Urban‐rural comparisons in health risk factor, health status and outcomes in Tianjin, China: A cross‐sectional survey (2009‐2013)
Authors: Luo Da , Du Jiajun , Wang Pei , Yang Wenxiu
Published: October 2019

Objective

To investigate the urban‐rural disparities in health risk factors, health status and outcomes in Tianjin, China and to make an international comparison with urban‐rural health in Australia.

Design

A descriptive analytical cross‐sectional survey.

Setting

Mobile research teams conducted door‐to‐door field surveys of each house or department. The teams included local administrative staff and Tianjin Center for Disease Control and Prevention's epidemiologists, clinicians and laboratory technicians.

Participants

A total of 25 288 residents were interviewed and clinically observed, including 8583 urban residents and 16 705 rural residents.

Main outcome measure

Health risk factors, health status and outcomes.

Results

The age structure in urban areas of Tianjin was growing older. Rural residents received less high school education and university education than did urban residents. Urban residents had higher medical insurance coverage and paid more out‐of‐pocket medical expenditures than did rural residents. The prevalence of smoking and the crude alcohol consumption rate were higher in rural areas than in urban areas. Rural residents had feelings of higher self‐satisfaction concerning their health status than did urban residents. The prevalence of hypertensive disease, type 2 diabetes and heart, stroke and vascular diseases were significantly lower in rural areas than in urban areas. The incidence rate of serious injuries resulting from traffic accidents was significantly higher in rural areas than in urban areas.

Conclusion

Contrary to Australian urban‐rural survey outcomes, the health status and outcomes of residents in rural areas of Tianjin seemed to be better than those of their counterparts in urban areas. The underlying determinants of these outcomes need to be explored with further study.
Laughing about Corruption in Ethiopian‐Chinese Encounters
Authors: Driessen Miriam
Published: October 2019

In Ethiopia, the growing Chinese presence has inspired lively debate, often with an edge of humor. Corruption is one of the recurring topics in amusing narratives that circulate on and off the Chinese‐run building sites that have emerged across the Ethiopian landscape over the past two decades. While humorous corruption stories hint at the possibility of corruption and introduce the audience to the cultural codes of conduct, corrupt practices, equally aided by laughter, create instances of collaboration and complicity. Corruption in cross‐cultural encounters serves as a lens through which to imagine the Other and evaluate their behavior, and by drawing those complicit in corrupt transactions into shared (im)moral worlds, it generates opportunities for rapprochement. [corruption, humor, encounter, Ethiopia, China]
Does vegetation matter for the criminal behavior among people with serious mental illness?
Authors: Han Woojae , Marzell Miesha , Deng Chengbin
Published: October 2019

This study attempts to examine the effect of vegetation on arrests of offenders with and without serious mental illness (SMI). Data from the MacArthur mental health court study were analyzed. Objective arrest data were obtained 12–18 months pre‐ and post‐court involvement between 2005 and 2007. Vegetation data were captured by the normalized difference vegetation index, which can be regarded as a general measure of “vegetation” and linked with GeoID, obtained from the American Community Survey. We analyzed data of sociodemographic factors (e.g., age, gender), crime‐related factors (e.g., age of first arrest), and vegetation in related to the crime on 652 offenders with mental illness. Multilevel negative binomial regression revealed no significant effect of vegetation on arrests among offenders without SMI; however, for those with SMI, a significant variation in vegetation on arrests was found among all study models. Our findings suggest that vegetation is significantly associated with arrests, with a positive effect on reducing the recidivism only among offenders with SMI. Given that practice and policy almost exclusively focus on individual factors of crimes, it is important to have more considerations about how neighborhood factors affect criminal behavior, depending on SMI in order to have more comprehensive methods of crime prevention.
Out‐of‐pocket expenditure on health care by Australian mothers: Lessons for maternal universal health coverage from a long‐established system
Authors: Callander Emily J. , Topp Stephanie , Fox Haylee , Corscadden Lisa
Published: October 2019

Background

Designing effective universal health care systems has challenges, including the use of patient co‐payments and the role of the public and private systems. This study sought to quantify the total amount of out‐of‐pocket fees incurred by women who gave birth in private and public hospitals within Australia—a country with universal health coverage—and assess the impact that variation in birth type has on out‐of‐pocket fees.

Methods

Data came from a linked administrative data set of all women who gave birth in the Australian state Queensland between July 1, 2012, and June 30, 2015, plus their resultant children. Propensity score matching was used to create two similar cohorts of women who gave birth in private and public hospitals.

Results

The mean total out‐of‐pocket fees for care from conception to the child's first birthday was $2813 (±2683 standard deviation) and $623 (±1202) for women who gave birth in private and public hospitals, respectively. Total fees were higher in both public and private hospitals for women who had a cesarean birth ($716 [±1419] and $3010 [±2988]) than for women who had a vaginal birth without instruments ($556 [±1044] and $2560 [±2284]).

Discussion

Australia's strong policy incentives for women to take out private health insurance are leaving women with large out‐of‐pocket costs. This should hold important lessons for other countries implementing a universal health care system, to ensure that using a combination of public and private practitioners does not undermine the intention of universal care.
Pilot study investigating the effect of enteral and parenteral nutrition on the gastrointestinal microbiome post‐allogeneic transplantation
Authors: Andersen Sarah , Staudacher Heidi , Weber Nicholas , Kennedy Glen , Varelias Antiopi , Banks Merrilyn , Bauer Judy
Published: October 2019

Nutrition support is frequently required post‐allogeneic haematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation (HPCT); however, the impact of mode of feeding on the gastrointestinal microbiome has not been explored. This study aimed to determine if there is a difference in the microbiome between patients receiving enteral nutrition (EN) and parenteral nutrition (PN) post‐allogeneic HPCT. Twenty‐three patients received either early EN or PN when required. Stool samples were collected at 30 days post‐transplant and analysed with shotgun metagenomic sequencing. There was no difference in microbial diversity between patients who received predominantly EN (n = 13) vs. PN (n = 10) however patients who received predominantly EN had greater abundance of Faecalibacterium (P < 0·001) and ruminococcus E bromii (P = 0·026). Patients who had minimal oral intake for a longer duration during provision of nutrition support had a different overall microbial profile (P = 0·044), lower microbial diversity (P = 0·004) and lower abundance of faecalibacterium prausnitzii_C (P = 0·030) and Blautia (P = 0·007) compared to patients with greater oral intake. Lower microbial diversity was found in patients who received additional beta lactam antibiotics (P = 0·042) or had a longer length of hospital stay (P = 0·019). Post‐HPCT oral intake should be encouraged to maintain microbiota diversity and, if nutrition support is required, EN may promote a more optimal microbiota profile.
No excess long‐term mortality in stage I‐IIA Hodgkin lymphoma patients treated with ABVD and limited field radiotherapy
Authors: Lagerlöf Ingemar , Holte Harald , Glimelius Ingrid , Björkholm Magnus , Enblad Gunilla , Erlanson Martin , Fluge Øystein , Fohlin Helena , Fosså Alexander , Goldkuhl Christina , Gustavsson Anita , Johansson Ann‐Sofie , Linderoth Johan , Nome Ole , Palma Marzia , Åkesson Lisa , Østenstad Bjørn , Raud Cecilia , Glimelius Bengt , Molin Daniel
Published: October 2019

When treating limited stage classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL), balancing treatment efficacy and toxicity is important. Toxicities after extended‐field radiotherapy are well documented. Investigators have aimed at reducing toxicity without compromising efficacy, mainly by using combined modality treatment (CMT), i.e. chemotherapy and limited‐field radiotherapy. In some clinical trials, radiotherapy has been omitted. We evaluated 364 patients with stage I‐IIA cHL treated between 1999 and 2005. Patients were treated with two or four cycles of doxorubicin, bleomycin, vinblastine and dacarbazine (ABVD) according to presence of risk factors, followed by 30 Gy limited‐field (reduced compared to involved‐field) radiotherapy. After a median follow‐up of 16 years for survival, freedom from progression at five and ten years was 93% and overall survival at 5 and 10 years was 98% and 96%, respectively. Only two relapses, out of 27, occurred after more than 5 years. There was no excess mortality compared to the general population. Of the analysed subgroups, only patients with progression within five years showed significant excess mortality. The absence of excess mortality questions the concept of omitting radiotherapy after short‐term chemotherapy, a strategy that has been associated with an elevated risk of relapse but not yet with a proven reduced long‐term excess mortality.
The 3D facies architecture and petrophysical properties of hyaloclastite delta deposits: An integrated photogrammetry and petrophysical study from southern Iceland
Authors: Greenfield Lois , Millett John M. , Howell John , Jerram Dougal A. , Watton Timothy , Healy David , Hole Malcolm J. , Planke Sverre
Published: October 2019

Hyaloclastites develop where lava interacts with water resulting in deposits that have a unique and often complex range of petrophysical properties. A combination of eruptive style and emplacement environment dictates the size, geometry and distribution of different hyaloclastite facies and their associated primary physical properties such as porosity, permeability and velocity. To date, links between the 3D facies variability within these systems and their petrophysical properties remain poorly understood. Hjörleifshöfði in southern Iceland presents an exceptional outcrop exposure of an emergent hyaloclastite sequence >1 km wide by >200 m high and enables an investigation of the distribution of the hyaloclastite deposits at seismic scale. Within this study we present a photogrammetry‐based 3D model from part of this recent hyaloclastite delta and incorporate previous work by Watton et al. (Journal of Volcanology and Geothermal Research, 2013, 250, 19) to undertake detailed facies interpretation and quantification. Laboratory petrophysical analyses were performed on 34 core plugs cut from key field facies samples, including P‐ and S‐wave velocity, density, porosity and permeability at both ambient and confining pressure. Integration of the 3D model with the petrophysical data has enabled the production of pseudo‐wireline logs and property distribution maps which demonstrate the variability of physical properties within hyaloclastite sequences at outcrop to seismic scale. Through comparison of our data with examples of older buried hyaloclastite sequences we demonstrate that the wide‐ranging properties of young hyaloclastites become highly uniform in older sequences making their identification by remote geophysical methods for similar facies variations more challenging. Our study provides an improved understanding of the petrophysical property distribution within hyaloclastite sequences and forms a valuable step towards improving the understanding of similar subsurface sequences and their implications for imaging and fluid flow.
Behavioural weight loss treatment preferences of college students with overweight and obesity
Authors: Bihuniak Jessica D. , Bryant Tiffany , Kleiman Jennifer , Rotondo Megan , Decoteau Jessica , Haisley Samantha , Monserrate David , Cunningham Michael , MacKenzie Allison , Dauz Steve , Ippolito Rosann , Fernandes Nicolle , LaRose Jessica G. , Leahey Tricia M.
Published: October 2019

The college environment increases risk of weight gain in young adults with overweight/obesity. Behavioural weight loss interventions are proven effective, however, young adults' adherence to such programs is poor. The purpose of the study was to determine weight loss treatment preferences of 2‐ and 4‐year college students for the development of population‐specific interventions. Students with a BMI ≥25, between 18 and 24 years of age, and enrolled in one of four institutions were recruited. A questionnaire was developed to assess students' preferences and was administered via Qualtrics. BMI was calculated from objectively assessed height and weight measurements. Descriptive analyses, chi‐square, Fisher's Exact Test, Mann‐Whitney U test and Cramer's V were performed. Participants (n = 133, age = 20.2 ± 1.8) predominately identified as female (70%), non‐Hispanic (68%) and Black/African American (32%) or White (32%). Fifty‐five percent met criteria for obesity. Most students preferred session length of ≤1 hour (78%), for meetings to be held on a weekday (70%) and for both a peer and a professional to co‐facilitate meetings (61%). Preferences for health outcomes and physical activity monitoring, type of physical activity, frequency of dietary monitoring, physical activity tracking method and interest in financial incentives to promote core treatment components differed between institutions. Heterogeneity in program preferences by college environment should be considered when designing weight loss interventions.
Identification of transgene integration site and anatomical properties of fluorescence intensity in a EGFP transgenic chicken line
Authors: Tsujino Kaori , Okuzaki Yuya , Hibino Nobuyuki , Kawamura Kazuki , Saito Seiji , Ozaki Yumi , Ishishita Satoshi , Kuroiwa Atsushi , Iijima Shinji , Matsuda Yoichi , Nishijima Kenichi , Suzuki Takayuki
Published: October 2019

Transgenic birds are commonly used for time‐lapse imaging and fate mapping studies in developmental biology. When researchers use transgenic birds expressing fluorescent protein, they need to understand the integration site of the transgene in the genome and the intensity of fluorescence in the tissues of interest. In this study, we determined the integration site of the transgene and fluorescence property of developing organs in our transgenic chicken line generated by lentivirus infection. The transgene was localized between exons 3 and 4 of MED27. Some homozygotes and heterozygotes appeared to be lethal at early embryonic stages. We performed histological analysis of EGFP expression in transgenic embryos at St. 14, 17, and 24 by immunohistochemistry with anti‐GFP antibody on paraffin sections. Next, we cut cryosections and quantified direct EGFP intensity from the transgene in each tissue without performing immunohistochemistry. These results revealed that EGFP intensity in each tissue was unique in developing embryos and changed according to developmental stages. Finally, we demonstrated that EGFP‐expressing cells in a micromass culture with co‐culturing wild‐type cells were clearly distinguishable via live cell imaging. These results provide essential information on the potential of our transgenic line and indicate that these transgenic chicken lines are useful for research associated with developmental biology.
Unpacking the post‐Haiyan disaster resettlement narratives of young Filipino women informal settlers in Tacloban City, Philippines
Authors: Espina Ervina A. , Canoy Nico A.
Published: October 2019

Post‐disaster resettlement narratives encapsulate the complex mobile–spatial processes that are embedded in a post‐disaster context. The existing literature on disaster relocation and resettlement accords primacy to the logistical, practical, structural, and physical dimensions of residential transitioning. Building on this knowledge, this study conducted a spatial narrative inquiry to generate a link to mobile–spatial realities interspersed in diverse temporal trajectories. It did so by tracking the embodied rhythms of people and objects evoked through the retelling of post‐disaster resettlement stories by 12 young Filipino women informal settlers. The key findings are organised in three spatial narratives: ‘house near the sea'; ‘there at the bunkhouse'; and ‘here in Ridgeview'. These narratives are anchored in the overarching dimensions that underpin Filipino informal settlers’ experiences of (not) moving in and out of disaster resettlement areas. Lastly, the findings are explained in the light of the theoretical, empirical, and practical implications of disaster resettlement specific to informal settlers.
A critical review of learning approaches for entrepreneurship education in a contemporary society
Authors: O'Brien Emma , Hamburg Ileana
Published: October 2019

The concept of entrepreneurship has evolved significantly in the last decade and is identified as a competence rather than as a skill, comprising many different behaviours, attributes and skills, including empathy, creativity, financial literacy, taking initiatives and identifying opportunities. The Entrepcomp framework outlined by the EU Commission in 2016 highlighted that entrepreneurship focused on all aspects of society, not just business. It defined entrepreneurship as “the value that is created, financial, cultural, or social”. The importance of entrepreneurship as a key facet of life has reinvented how it should be taught, leading to collaborative pedagogical models that facilitate the exchange, flow and co‐creation of knowledge between HEIs, businesses and communities.This article identifies the need forcollaborative pedagogical models to develop entrepreneurial skills. It explores if a hybrid of design thinking and problem‐based learning can satisfy the needs of entrepreneurship education in contemporary society.
Limited strongyle parasite occurrence in horses kept in an arid environment
Authors: Ramey D. W. , Nielsen M. K.
Published: October 2019

The objective of this study was to document the strongylid infection status of stabled horses residing in an arid environment with limited access to pasture. Faecal parasite examinations were conducted in a private equine practice in Southern California over a period of 7 years, from 2012 to 2018, from a variety of horses in seven different locations; not all horses living at these locations were studied. Results of all faecal examinations were obtained and tabulated, as to both total number of horses examined, as well as individual animals followed with at least four consecutive bi‐annual faecal examinations over a 2‐year period. A total of 851 faecal tests on 79 individual horses were performed during the 7‐year study period, and 78 (9%) were strongyle positive. By the end of the study period, during which horses were monitored and treated according to faecal flotation tests, 97% of 117 faecal flotation tests were negative for strongyle parasites. In conclusion, in a population of 79 adult horses living in dry, arid conditions, with little or no access to pasture, frequent deworming for strongylid parasites would appear to be less necessary than in other environments. Regular faecal monitoring of horses in such conditions is appropriate for determining the necessary level of anthelmintic intervention.
A Randomized Phase 2 Study of Erenumab for the Prevention of Episodic Migraine in Japanese Adults
Authors: Sakai Fumihiko , Takeshima Takao , Tatsuoka Yoshihisa , Hirata Koichi , Lenz Robert , Wang Yi , Cheng Sunfa , Hirama Toshiyasu , Mikol Daniel D.
Published: October 2019

Objective

A phase 2, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of erenumab for the prevention of episodic migraine in Japanese patients was conducted.

Background

Previous global clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of erenumab in the prevention of migraine.

Methods

Patients were randomized to placebo or erenumab 28, 70, or 140 mg administered subcutaneously once per month for 6 months. The primary endpoint was change from baseline in mean monthly migraine days over months 4‐6 of the double‐blind treatment phase. Secondary endpoints included the proportion of patients achieving ≥50% reduction from baseline in mean monthly migraine days (≥50% response) and change from baseline in mean monthly acute migraine‐specific medication treatment days (MSMD) and mean Headache Impact Test (HIT‐6™) scores. Efficacy outcomes were also determined at months 1, 2, and 3.

Results

Four hundred and seventy five patients were randomized 2:1:2:2 to placebo and erenumab 28, 70, and 140 mg, respectively. Greater reductions in monthly migraine days were observed for erenumab vs placebo with differences of –1.25 (95% CI: –2.10 to –0.41; P = .004), –2.31 (95% CI: –3.00 to –1.62; P < .001), and –1.89 (95% CI: –2.58 to –1.20; P < .001) days for erenumab 28, 70, and 140 mg. The odds of having a ≥50% response were 3.2, 5.6, and 4.7 times greater for erenumab 28 mg (95% CI: 1.30‐7.88; P = .009), 70 mg (95% CI: 2.60‐12.06; P < .001), and 140 mg (95% CI: 2.24‐9.99; P < .001) than for placebo. Greater reductions from baseline in mean acute monthly MSMD were observed for erenumab vs placebo with differences of –1.07 (95% CI: –1.80 to –0.35; P = .004), –2.07 (95% CI: –2.66 to –1.49; P < .001), and –2.04 (95% CI: –2.63 to –1.45; P < .001) days for erenumab 28, 70, and 140 mg. Erenumab 70 and 140 mg also resulted in greater improvements in HIT‐6™ scores. The safety profile was similar across treatment groups. The most common adverse event was nasopharyngitis, which occurred in 29.4% of patients in the placebo group and 28.9%‐33.3% of patients in the erenumab groups.

Conclusion

Monthly subcutaneous injections of erenumab 70 mg demonstrated statistically significant and numerically maximal efficacy with a favorable safety profile, suggesting that erenumab is a potential new therapy for migraine prevention in Japan.
What we say and what we mean when we say redundancy and robustness of the chemokine system – how CCR5 challenges these concepts
Authors: Ellwanger Joel H , Kaminski Valéria de L , Chies José AB
Published: October 2019

Classically, robustness and redundancy are features that define the intricate and connected functioning of the chemokine system. Following these ideas, the lack of a particular chemokine or chemokine receptor could be compensated by the presence of other molecules with similar functions, ensuring robustness to the systems. Although these concepts are generally accepted, they represent an oversimplification of a highly complex system that works in a context‐dependent manner. Based on different studies, and taking as an example the chemokine receptor CCR5 (C–C chemokine receptor type 5) and the genetic variant CCR5Δ32, which on several occasions challenge the classical concepts of redundancy and robustness of the chemokine system, we will discuss and question this general and oversimplified point of view.
Structural origin of the anomalous density maximum in silica and alkali silicate glasses
Authors: Shih Yueh‐Ting , Sundararaman Siddharth , Huang Liping
Published: October 2019

Silica, sharing the same tetrahedral order and many structural, thermodynamic and dynamic anomalies with water, has been speculated to have a density increase upon melting similar to water. In this work, an increase in density upon melting cristobalite silica and a shallow density maximum followed by a density minimum during cooling of silica liquid are observed in classical molecular dynamics simulations. The density maximum gradually diminishes with the increase in alkali size/content in alkali silicate glasses. The structural origin of the anomalous density maximum in silica is revealed by detailed structural analysis. During the cooling process, a range of rings with different sizes form in liquid silica, with 6‐member rings being the most dominant, which cause the silica network to open up and compensate the regular volume shrinkage upon cooling. These two competing factors lead to a density maximum, but to a less extent than that observed in melting of cristobalite silica. With the increase in modifier size/content in the alkali silicate glasses, the connectivity of silica network gradually breaks down; the population of 6‐member rings decrease with the increase in smaller or larger rings, therefore the density maximum becomes less obvious and eventually disappears.
Applying the self‐determination theory to develop a school‐to‐work peer mentoring programme to promote social inclusion
Authors: Fisher Marisa H. , Athamanah Lindsay S. , Sung Connie , Josol Cynde Katherine
Published: October 2019

Social inclusion of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) is related to positive mental health and social outcomes; yet, individuals with IDD experience societal barriers that limit opportunities for community participation. Providing opportunities for interactions between individuals with and without IDD through peer mentoring may diminish barriers and improve community inclusion. Guided by the self‐determination theory, the current report describes the development of a peer mentoring programme to promote the natural process of building intrinsic motivation and personal growth through opportunities for individuals without disabilities to socialize with individuals with IDD on a large university campus and throughout the surrounding community. The theoretical framework that informed the development of the peer mentoring programme is described, as well as the participants, the setting in which the programme is situated, the structure of the programme, the initial impacts and improvement of the programme over time, including approaches to sustainability, and implications for future research and practice.
Factors that predict good Active Support in services for people with intellectual disabilities: A multilevel model
Authors: Bigby Christine , Bould Emma , Iacono Teresa , Kavanagh Shane , Beadle‐Brown Julie
Published: October 2019

Background

Active Support, now widely adopted by disability support organizations, is difficult to implement. The study aim was to identify the factors associated with good Active Support.

Methods

Data on service user and staff characteristics, quality of Active Support and practice leadership were collected from a sample of services from 14 organizations annually for between 2 and 7 years, using questionnaires, structured observations and interviews. Data were analysed using multilevel modelling (MLM).

Results

Predictors of good Active Support were adaptive behaviour, practice leadership, Active Support training, and time since its implementation. Heterogeneity, having more than six people in a service and larger organizations were associated with lower quality of Active Support.

Conclusions

In order to ensure that Active Support is consistently implemented, and thus, quality of life outcomes improved, organizations need to pay attention to both service design and support for staff through training and practice leadership.
Youth experiencing transitional and temporary homelessness: A pilot study
Authors: Saldanha Ken , Raymond D. Marty
Published: October 2019

Homeless youth represent a vulnerable and understudied population, particularly those among them who are hidden, experiencing transitional or temporary homelessness. Little research focuses on this group, including the methods and settings to identify and tailor interventions to their circumstances. Given the immediate risks and possible transition to chronic homelessness, their identification is critical for prevention and intervention efforts. This exploratory pilot study investigated transitional and temporary homelessness among youth. The study demonstrated the ability to identify such participants. Twenty participants completed a survey that measured demographics, behavioral risk factors, and the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI; Derogatis, 1993). Reports of relationships with parents varied. They included positive maternal relationships, but also concerns about intrafamilial conflict. While frequent change of schools was reported, generally positive feelings toward school were expressed. Social relationships suggest limited exposure to other homeless youth. Some substance abuse was noted, possibly at lower rates than expected for hard drugs. The BSI results are suggestive of health concerns. The study demonstrated that it is possible to capture children experiencing transitional or temporary homelessness in alternative school settings. It is essential that efforts be made to identify them and provide early supports toward preventing chronic homelessness.
Patients' and clinicians' perspectives on shared decision‐making regarding treatment decisions for depression, anxiety disorders, and obsessive‐compulsive disorder in specialized psychiatric care
Authors: Rodenburg‐Vandenbussche Sumayah , Carlier Ingrid , van Vliet Irene , van Hemert Albert , Stiggelbout Anne , Zitman Frans
Published: October 2019

Rationale, aims, and objectives

People worldwide are affected by psychiatric disorders that lack a “best” treatment option. The role of shared decision‐making (SDM) in psychiatric care seems evident, yet remains limited. Research on SDM in specialized mental health is scarce, concentrating on patients with depressive disorder or psychiatric disorders in general and less on patients with anxiety and obsessive‐compulsive disorder (OCD). Furthermore, recent research concentrates on the evaluation of interventions to promote and measure SDM rather than on the feasibility of SDM in routine practice. This study investigated patients' and clinicians' perspectives on SDM to treat depression, anxiety disorders, and OCD as to better understand SDM in specialized psychiatric care and its challenges in clinical practice.

Methods

Transcripts of eight focus groups with 17 outpatients and 33 clinicians were coded, and SDM‐related codes were analysed using thematic analyses.

Results

Motivators, responsibilities, and preconditions regarding SDM were defined. Patients thought SDM should be common practice given the autonomy they have over their own bodies and felt responsible for their treatments. Clinicians value SDM for obtaining patients' consent, promoting treatment adherence, and establishing a good patient‐clinician relationship. Patients and clinicians thought clinicians assumed the most responsibility regarding the initiation and achievement of SDM in clinical practice. According to clinicians, preconditions were often not met, were influenced by illness severity, and formed important barriers (eg, patient's decision‐making capacity, treatment availability, and clinicians' preferences), leading to paternalistic decision‐making. Patients recognized these difficulties, but felt none of these preclude the implementation of SDM. Personalized information and more consultation time could facilitate SDM.

Conclusions

Patients and clinicians in specialized psychiatric care value SDM, but adapting it to daily practice remains challenging. Clinicians are vital to the implementation of SDM and should become versed in how to involve patients in the decision‐making process, even when this is difficult.
Primary and secondary oocyte growth dynamics in anadromous semelparous Allis shad Alosa alosa
Authors: Mouchlianitis Foivos A. , Belo Ana F. , Vieira Ana R. , Quintella Bernardo R. , Almeida Pedro R. , Ganias Kostas
Published: October 2019

We analysed the ovarian dynamics of the anadromous semelparous allis shad Alosa alosa for which our working hypothesis was that mature pre‐spawning females would have very low or even exhausted primary growth (PG) oocyte reserves; semelparity has been linked with the depletion of the pool of PG oocytes. To test this hypothesis, the PG oocytes were enumerated, their recruitment pattern to the secondary growth (SG) phase was analysed and their potential replenishment from the pool of oogonia was examined in females caught very close to the Mondego River mouth, in central Portugal and along the river. The development of the SG oocytes was also analysed, the fecundity (batch, total and annual) values were estimated and the intensity of atresia was quantified. Ovarian samples and histological sections were investigated in parallel. A dynamic recruitment pattern of PG oocytes to the SG phase was revealed, where all PG oocytes were recruited and were not replenished by oogonia. Annual fecundity was subject to down‐regulation due to atresia prior to spawning and its size was multiple times higher than the size of batch fecundity. Lack of population synchronicity in ovarian development and spawning migration was also observed. This multifaceted analysis of the ovarian dynamics of this species will contribute to management efforts for this critically endangered and economically important fish throughout its geographical distribution. The results reported in this study will also assist in unravelling the complexity of the early processes of oogenesis in fish.
Validation of Thai version of the Health Literacy in Dentistry scale: Validation among Thai adults with physical disabilities
Authors: Sermsuti‐Anuwat Nithimar , Pongpanich Sathirakorn
Published: October 2019

Aim

To validate the Thai version of the Health Literacy in Dentistry scale (HeLD‐Th) among Thai adults with physical disabilities.

Methods

The original Health Literacy in Dentistry (HeLD) was translated into Thai (HeLD‐Th). The final version of the HeLD‐Th was evaluated through a cross‐sectional study of 160 participants in Thailand. Interview questionnaires and oral examination were performed. The reliability and validity of the HeLD‐Th were determined.

Results

The internal consistency was acceptable, with an overall Cronbach's alpha of 0.76. The face and content validity were confirmed. Sufficient construct validity was revealed by exploratory factor analysis. The convergent validity (P ≤ .013) and discriminant validity (P = .017) were estimated. The concurrent validity and predictive validity were confirmed by significantly higher HeLD‐Th scores (P < .001). Multiple linear regression analyses indicated that approximately 60% of the variation in the HeLD‐Th scores was explained by the final model.

Conclusion

The HeLD‐Th has sufficient psychometric properties to assess the oral health literacy of Thai adults with mild to moderate disabilities. There are some limitations of the study due to the small sample size, and the results are specific to Thai adults with disabilities. Future studies using the HeLD‐Th scale are recommended.
Life cycle assessment of emerging technologies: Evaluation techniques at different stages of market and technical maturity
Authors: Bergerson Joule A. , Brandt Adam , Cresko Joe , Carbajales‐Dale Michael , MacLean Heather L. , Matthews H. Scott , McCoy Sean , McManus Marcelle , Miller Shelie A. , Morrow William R. , Posen I. Daniel , Seager Thomas , Skone Timothy , Sleep Sylvia
Published: October 2019

Life cycle assessment (LCA) analysts are increasingly being asked to conduct life cycle‐based systems level analysis at the earliest stages of technology development. While early assessments provide the greatest opportunity to influence design and ultimately environmental performance, it is the stage with the least available data, greatest uncertainty, and a paucity of analytic tools for addressing these challenges. While the fundamental approach to conducting an LCA of emerging technologies is akin to that of LCA of existing technologies, emerging technologies pose additional challenges. In this paper, we present a broad set of market and technology characteristics that typically influence an LCA of emerging technologies and identify questions that researchers must address to account for the most important aspects of the systems they are studying. The paper presents: (a) guidance to identify the specific technology characteristics and dynamic market context that are most relevant and unique to a particular study, (b) an overview of the challenges faced by early stage assessments that are unique because of these conditions, (c) questions that researchers should ask themselves for such a study to be conducted, and (d) illustrative examples from the transportation sector to demonstrate the factors to consider when conducting LCAs of emerging technologies. The paper is intended to be used as an organizing platform to synthesize existing methods, procedures and insights and guide researchers, analysts and technology developer to better recognize key study design elements and to manage expectations of study outcomes.
On What States Do Prices Depend? Answers From Ecuador
Authors: BENEDICT CRAIG , CRUCINI MARIO J. , LANDRY ANTHONY
Published: October 2019

The frequency of retail price adjustment differs across goods, both in low inflationary environments, such has the United States, and in high inflationary environments typical of less developed countries. We develop a multishock menu cost model in which retailers intermediate trade between producers and consumers. Since the cost share of intermediate inputs varies across goods, the model produces a cross‐sectional distribution of frequency of price adjustment even though firms face a common menu cost. The model is evaluated using a rich micropanel of retail prices in Ecuador in a period spanning a financial crisis and subsequent dollarization.
Dopamine beta‐hydroxylase and its genetic variants in human health and disease
Authors: Gonzalez‐Lopez Eugene , Vrana Kent E.
Published: October 2019

Dopamine beta‐hydroxylase (DβH) is an essential neurotransmitter‐synthesizing enzyme that catalyzes the formation of norepinephrine (NE) from dopamine and has been extensively studied since its discovery in the 1950s. NE serves as a neurotransmitter in both the central and peripheral nervous systems and is the precursor to epinephrine synthesis in the brain and adrenal medulla. Alterations in noradrenergic signaling have been linked to both central nervous system and peripheral pathologies. DβH protein, which is found in circulation, can, therefore, be evaluated as a marker of norepinephrine function in a plethora of different disorders and diseases. In many of these diseases, DβH protein availability and activity are believed to contribute to disease presentation or select symptomology and are believed to be under strong genetic control. Alteration in the DβH protein by genetic polymorphisms may result in DβH becoming rate‐limiting and directly contributing to lower NE and epinephrine levels and disease. With the completion of the human genome project and the advent of next‐generation sequencing, new insights have been gained into the existence of naturally occurring DβH sequencing variants (genetic polymorphisms) in disease. Also, biophysical tools coupled with genetic sequences are illuminating structure‐function relationships within the enzyme. In this review, we discuss the role of genetic variants in DβH and its role in health and disease.

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Vitamin A deficiency impairs contextual fear memory in rats: Abnormalities in the glucocorticoid pathway
Authors: Bonhomme Damien , Alfos Serge , Webster Scott P. , Wolff Mathieu , Pallet Véronique , Touyarot Katia
Published: October 2019

Vitamin A and its active metabolite, retinoic acid (RA), play a key role in the maintenance of cognitive functions in the adult brain. Depletion of RA using the vitamin A deficiency (VAD) model in Wistar rats leads to spatial memory deficits in relation to elevated intrahippocampal basal corticosterone (CORT) levels and increased hippocampal 11β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11β‐HSD1) activity. All of these effects are normalised by vitamin A supplementation. However, it is unknown whether vitamin A status also modulates contextual fear conditioning (CFC) in a glucocorticoid‐associated fear memory task dependent on the functional integrity of the hippocampus. In the present study, we investigated the impact of VAD and vitamin A supplementation in adult male rats on fear memory processing, plasma CORT levels, hippocampal retinoid receptors and 11β‐HSD1 expression following a novelty‐induced stress. We also examined whether vitamin A supplementation or a single injection of UE2316, a selective 11β‐HSD1 inhibitor, known to modulate local glucocorticoid levels, had any beneficial effects on contextual fear memory and biochemical parameters in VAD rats. We provide evidence that VAD rats exhibit a decreased fear conditioning response during training with a poor contextual fear memory 24 hours later. These VAD‐induced cognitive impairments are associated with elevated plasma CORT levels under basal conditions, as well as following a stressful event, with saturated CORT release, altered hippocampal retinoid receptors and 11β‐HSD1 expression. Vitamin A supplementation normalises VAD‐induced fear conditioning training deficits and all biochemical effects, although it cannot prevent fear memory deficits. Moreover, a single injection of UE2316 not only impairs contextual fear memory, but also reduces plasma CORT levels, regardless of the vitamin A status and decreases slightly hippocampal 11β‐HSD1 activity in VAD rats following stress. The present study highlights the importance of vitamin A status with respect to modulating fear memory conditioning in relation to plasma CORT levels and hippocampal 11β‐HSD1.
The efficacy and safety of permethrin 2.5% with tea tree oil gel on rosacea treatment: A double‐blind, controlled clinical trial
Authors: Ebneyamin Elnaz , Mansouri Parvin , Rajabi Mehdi , Qomi Mahnaz , Asgharian Ramin , Azizian Zahra
Published: October 2019

Background

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that typically affects the face and it results in redness and inflammation. The main risk factors of this disease are Demodex folliculorum, living in the pilosebaceous units.

Aims

To evaluate the efficacy and safty of permethrin 2.5% in combination with tea tree oil (TTO) topical gel versus placebo on Demodex density (Dd) and clinical manifestation using standard skin surface biopsy (SSSB) in rosacea patients.

Patient/Methods

In this double‐blind, randomized clinical trial, 47 papulopustular rosacea patients were enrolled, with 35 patients finishing the 12 weeks of treatment. Each patient used permethrin 2.5% with TTO on one side of the face and a placebo on the other, twice daily for 12 weeks. SSSB, photography and clinical rosacea scores according to National Rosacea Society, as well as adverse drug reaction (ADRs) were reported at the baseline, 2nd, 5th, 8th, and 12th weeks.

Results

A total of 47 patients were enrolled with papulopustular rosacea, and 35 patients finished the study. The effects of permethrin 2.5% with TTO gel on mite density were significant at week 5, 8, 12 (P value = .001). Clinical features and global assessments showed papules, pustules and nontransient erythema had improvement in drug group after 12 weeks (P values <.05). The improvement of burning and stinging and dry appearance was greater than the placebo gel (P value <.05). Itching in placebo group was significantly more than other group (P value = .002).

Conclusion

Administration of permethrin 2.5% with TTO gel demonstrated good efficacy and safety in rosacea. This topical gel inhibited the inflammatory effects of rosacea and reduced Demodex mite.