bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tips to use partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) in knowledge management
Authors: Cepeda-Carrion Gabriel , Cegarra-Navarro Juan-Gabriel , Cillo Valentina
Published: December 2018

Purpose

Structural equation modelling (SEM) has been defined as the combination of latent variables and structural relationships. The partial least squares SEM (PLS-SEM) is used to estimate complex cause-effect relationship models with latent variables as the most salient research methods across a variety of disciplines, including knowledge management (KM). Following the path initiated by different domains in business research, this paper aims to examine how PLS-SEM has been applied in KM research, also providing some new guidelines how to improve PLS-SEM report analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

To ensure an objective way to analyse relevant works in the field of KM, this study conducted a systematic literature review of 63 publications in three SSCI-indexed and specific KM journals between 2015 and 2017.

Findings

Our results show that over the past three years, a significant amount of KM works has empirically used PLS-SEM. The findings also suggest that in light of recent developments of PLS-SEM reporting, some common misconceptions among KM researchers occurred mainly related to the reasons for using PLS-SEM, the purposes of PLS-SEM analysis, data characteristics, model characteristics and the evaluation of the structural models.

Originality/value

This study contributes to that vast KM literature by documenting the PLS-SEM-related problems and misconceptions. Therefore, it will shed light for better reports in PLS-SEM studies in the KM field.
Hidradenitis suppurativa of the nape: Description of an atypical phenotype related to severe early‐onset disease in men
Authors: Agut‐Busquet Eugènia , Romaní Jorge , Ribera Miquel , Luelmo Jesús
Published: December 2018

Some patients with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) develop severe inflammatory lesions of the nape. Through a single‐center, cross‐sectional study with a total of 377 patients, we sought to compare patients with and without nape involvement, to determine whether disease severity is greater in these patients and to describe their clinical characteristics. Thirty patients (90% male) were identified as having nape involvement. Patients with versus without nape involvement had greater disease severity, earlier disease onset, a family history of HS, lower body mass, and higher Dermatological Life Quality Index and pain scores. Amongst them, involvement of the trunk and gluteal regions predominated. A significant univariate relationship existed between patients with nape involvement and male sex, early disease onset, family history, scalp and gluteal involvement, Canoui‐Poitrine phenotypes II and III, and Dowling–Degos disease. A significant multivariate relationship existed with early disease onset, Dowling–Degos disease, and phenotypes II and III.
Cross‐country evidence on the social determinants of the post‐socialist mortality crisis in Europe: a review and performance‐based hierarchy of variables
Authors: Scheiring Gabor , Irdam Darja , King Lawrence P.
Published: December 2018

An unprecedented mortality crisis befell the former socialist countries between 1989 and 1995, representing one of the greatest demographic shocks of the period after the Second World War. While it is likely that country‐level variation in the post‐socialist mortality crisis in Eastern Europe can be explained by a constellation of political and socio‐economic factors, no comprehensive review of the existing scholarly attempts at explaining these factors exists. We review 39 cross‐national multi‐variable peer reviewed studies of social determinants of mortality in post‐socialist Europe in order to assess the social factors behind the post‐socialist mortality crisis, determine the gaps in the existing literature and to make suggestions for future research. We propose a novel methodology to determine the relative importance of variables based on the ratio of significant to insignificant findings for each variable. The literature identifies inequality, welfare payments, religious composition, democracy, economic performance and unemployment as the leading factors that have a significant influence on mortality outcomes. Existing cross‐country studies fail to establish a definitive connection between mortality and diets, drinking patterns, liberalisation, trust, health expenditure and war. We also point out that the level of analysis is not a neutral methodological choice but might influence the results themselves.
Relationship Between Pulp Tooth Area Ratio and Chronological Age Using Cone‐beam Computed Tomography Images
Authors: Uğur Aydın Zeliha , Bayrak Seval
Published: December 2018

This study investigated the relationship between chronological age and pulp tooth area ratio (PTR) in maxillary central teeth using cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) images in the Turkish population. The sample consisted of CBCT images of 120 male and female subjects between 14 and 75 years old. The PTR of the maxillary central teeth was calculated using inVivo 5 software (Anatomage, San Jose, CA). Data were analyzed with independent t‐test and Pearson's rank correlation test. There was a significant negative correlation between chronological age and PTR (r = −0.615). The results showed that the PTR of maxillary central teeth is a reliable method for age estimation in the Turkish population.
Examining the Impact of the Freddie Gray Unrest on Perceptions of the Police
Authors: White Clair , Weisburd David , Wire Sean
Published: December 2018

Research Summary

Taking advantage of a large residential survey that was ongoing in Baltimore, Maryland, during the riots surrounding the death of Freddie Gray in 2015, in this study, we examined changes in attitudes of procedural justice and police legitimacy before and after the events occurred. We found little change in measures of obligation to obey the law, trustworthiness of the police, and procedural justice among residents of Baltimore.

Policy Implications

The police are facing a challenging period of turmoil and reform as incidents of police use of force against minorities continue to draw national attention. Our findings suggest, however, that these macro‐level events may have little immediate impact on views of police legitimacy and procedural justice, as contrasted with longer term historical relationships between the police and the public. We argue that more research is needed to understand broader societal factors that shape people's perceptions of the police as law enforcement and policy makers search for policies and programs to build trust with minority communities.
Economic Evaluation of the HOPE Demonstration Field Experiment
Authors: Cowell Alexander J. , Barnosky Alan , Lattimore Pamela K. , Cartwright Joel K. , DeMichele Matthew
Published: December 2018

Research Summary

In the program implemented in the Honest Opportunity Probation with Enforcement Demonstration Field Experiment (HOPE DFE), the following approach is taken: close monitoring; frequent drug testing; readily available substance abuse treatment; and swift, certain, and fair sanctioning to deter probationers from violating supervision conditions. We assessed in this study the costs and outcomes of the demonstration program across four jurisdictions, using 24 months of data from 625 probationers randomly assigned to probation as usual (PAU) or HOPE DFE. Our results reveal that the HOPE DFE group incurred more criminal justice costs than the PAU group over the observation period.

Policy Implications

Our study results further demonstrate that HOPE in the DFE is associated with higher rates of incarceration and residential treatment, leading to an increase in total costs when compared with PAU. Jurisdictions choosing to implement programs like HOPE to hold probationers accountable would need additional resources from the criminal justice system to support the program.
Transcriptional profiling reveals the molecular bases of immune regulation in Apis mellifera in response to Ascosphaera apis infection
Authors: Xu Bo , Wang Yingzhe , Zhu Shixin , Zhou Haizhu , Gou Changlong , Dong Wenlong , Wang Yu , Gao Yunhang , Ma Hongxia
Published: December 2018

Chalkbrood, which results from Ascosphaera apis infection, is one of the bee diseases that causes serious damage to the bee colony. Understanding the molecular bases underlying immune response to chalkbrood disease would facilitate the genetic breeding of bees by selecting races with superior chalkbrood resistance. In this study, transcriptome sequencing was performed to identify genes and pathways involved in the immune response to As. apis infection in A. mellifera larvae. In total, 2,890 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) (FDR < 0.001) were identified between the healthy and As. apis infected bee larvae, including 2,214 up‐regulated and 676 down‐regulated unigenes. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway classification of the DEGs revealed association with development, energy metabolism, signal transduction, disease, and immune response. Among the immune‐related genes, p38, toll‐like receptors (TLRs), integrin, and antimicrobial peptides were up‐regulated under As. apis infection. This study provides valuable gene transcriptional information towards the investigation of molecular mechanisms related to chalkbrood immune response and host pathogenesis in A. mellifera.
Phytochemical and Health‐Beneficial Progress of Turnip (Brassica rapa)
Authors: Paul Swastika , Geng Chang‐An , Yang Tong‐Hua , Yang Yong‐Ping , Chen Ji‐Jun
Published: December 2018

Despite the advancement of medical science, diseases are part‐and‐parcel of human life. Plants have provided humans with medicines since time immemorial, and are still one of the primary sources for drug discovery. Brassica rapa L., commonly known as turnip, is one of the world's oldest cultivated vegetables. Besides being an important vegetable and source of oil, turnip is also used as a traditional medicine for the treatment of headaches, chest complaints, rheumatisms, oedemas, gonorrhoea, syphilis, and rabies. Glucosinolates and isothiocyanates (mainly 2‐phenylethyl, 4‐pentenyl, and 3‐butenyl derivatives) are the main constituents of turnip with diverse bioactivities, especially for the protective effect against cancers. Besides, flavonoids, phenolics, indoles and volatiles are also concomitant in this plant. Pharmacological investigation on turnip revealed the antitumor, antihypertensive, antidiabetic, antioxidant, antiinflammatory, hepatoprotective, and nephroprotective effects. The anticancer property was found to be the most promising biological activity of turnip with 2‐phenylethyl isothiocyanate, phenylpropionitrile, brassicaphenanthrene A, 6‐paradol, and trans‐6‐shogaol as the major active constituents. Flavonoids and phenolics with high free radical scavenging activity should be corresponding to the antioxidant effects. Arvelexin, an indole derivative in turnip, was reported with various effects involving antiinflamatory, antihypertensive and hypolipidemic potency. In spite of many studies concerning either the chemical constituents or the biological activities of turnip, only a few cases disclosed the active ingredients responsible for diverse bioactivities. This review summarizes the research progress on the chemistry and health‐benefits of turnip over the past 20 years to provide a reference for the further investigation.
Sodium Chloride Suppresses the Bitterness of Protein Hydrolysates by Decreasing Hydrophobic Interactions
Authors: Xu Qingbiao , Hong Hui , Yu Wenlin , Jiang Xu , Yan Xianghua , Wu Jianping
Published: December 2018

The formation of bitter off‐flavor is a long‐existing issue during food protein hydrolysis. The aim of this study is to determine the mechanism of sodium chloride (NaCl) suppressing the bitterness of protein hydrolysates. In this study, the bitterness of egg white hydrolysate (EWH) and hen meat hydrolysate (HPH) was determined using an electronic tongue. The results showed that the bitterness intensity of quinine hydrochloride, EWH, and HPH was suppressed significantly by NaCl in a concentration‐dependent manner (P < 0.05). The particle sizes, turbidity, zeta potentials, and surface hydrophobicity of EWH and HPH were also significantly decreased by NaCl at concentrations of 0.05, 0.1, 0.3, and 0.5 M (P < 0.05). These results indicated that adding NaCl at certain concentrations led to a salting‐in effect, burying hydrophobic groups and decreasing the surface hydrophobicity of peptides, resulting in the decrease of bitterness. Using NaCl is an alternative, effective, and cheap strategy to suppress protein hydrolysate bitterness by decreasing hydrophobic interactions in food industry.

Practical Application

NaCl can be used as an effective bitterness masker for food protein hydrolysates by decreasing hydrophobic interactions of peptides.
Associations between Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index and physical performance in rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis
Authors: Douglas‐Withers Jessica , McCulloch Kate , Waters Debra , Parker Kelsi , Hogg Nicole , Mitsuhashi Tamiho , Treharne Gareth J. , Abbott J. Haxby , Stebbings Simon
Published: December 2018

Objectives

To investigate whether the Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ‐DI) reflects objective measures of physical function in people with osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

In total, 139 people, 71 with RA fulfilling the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria (1987) and 68 with OA fulfilling ACR criteria for OA of the hip or knee, completed the HAQ‐DI. Physical function was assessed using Timed Up and Go (TUG), 30 seconds Sit to Stand (STS), grip strength dynamometry and pedometer steps over 7 days.

Results

The strongest association with HAQ‐DI was with the TUG (R2 of 0.671 and 0.512 in RA and OA groups, respectively). HAQ‐DI and STS showed a non‐linear association in both groups with R2 of 0.380 in RA and 0.359 in OA. A strong association was found between HAQ‐DI and grip strength in the OA group (R2 = 0.681), whereas the RA group showed a moderate association (R2 = 0.285). There was a strong association between the HAQ‐DI and pedometer measures in RA (R2 = 0.562), although this association was weak in OA (R2 = 0.156).

Conclusion

The HAQ‐DI has a strong association with the TUG in both RA and OA. There was variable association between the HAQ‐DI and other physical performance measures, as well as differences between the RA and OA cohorts. In order to form a full and accurate clinical picture, health professionals should perform both subjective patient‐reported outcome measures and objective physical performance measures of disability.
Is pectus excavatum a risk factor for radiation‐induced lung disease in patients undergoing radiation therapy following breast‐conserving surgery?
Authors: Ishibashi Naoya , Maebayashi Toshiya , Aizawa Takuya , Sakaguchi Masakuni , Hata Masaharu , Sakurai Kenichi , Okada Masahiro
Published: December 2018

Background

The relationship between radiation dose to the ipsilateral lung and subsequent radiation‐induced lung disease (RILD) in breast cancer patients with pectus excavatum (PE) undergoing radiation therapy (RT) to residual breast tissue after breast‐conserving surgery has not yet been established. The incidence of RILD in such patients with PE, meaning that a large volume of the lung is within the radiation field, has not been determined. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the relationship between these factors.

Methods

The study cohort comprised 133 women who underwent three‐dimensional conformal RT to residual breast tissue after breast‐conserving surgery for breast cancer. Diagnoses of PE were based on Haller's, frontosagittal, and Monden's depression indices. Radiation doses to the ipsilateral lung were established from dose‐volume histograms.

Results

Fifty of the 133 participants (37.6%) were diagnosed with RILD; all were asymptomatic. Multivariate analysis revealed a significant correlation between the incidence of RILD and the administration of > 30 Gy (V30). Surprisingly, although patients with PE received higher ipsilateral lung doses, they were less likely to develop RILD than those without PE.

Conclusions

Our data indicate that the incidence of RILD is correlated with the administration of > 30 Gy (V30) and that PE is not a risk factor for RILD after RT to residual breast tissue after breast‐conserving surgery for breast cancer. Surprisingly, individuals with PE may have a lower incidence of RILD than those without this condition.
Primary lung squamous cell carcinoma with gastric metastasis: A case report
Authors: He Ying , Cui Yong , Duan Xinchun , Liu Chunquan , Cai Xianqi
Published: December 2018

Approximately 50% of patients with primary lung cancer have distant metastasis at the time of their first visit, but gastric metastasis is a rare occurrence. Herein, we report a case of progressive dysphagia as the first symptom and the final diagnosis of primary lung squamous cell carcinoma metastasis. A 61‐year‐old man was diagnosed with a solitary left lower lobe tumor and a solitary carcinoma of gastric cardia suspected to be metastatic or malignant stromal tumors. After surgical resection, the final diagnoses were primary differentiated squamous cell lung cancer, metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the stomach, and secondary lymph node metastasis. Gastrointestinal metastasis should be suspected in lung cancer patients with gastrointestinal symptoms. Gastric cancer metastasis from lung cancer is most likely the result of the aspiration of cancer cells containing sputum into the stomach.
The angel investment decision: insights from Australian business angels
Authors: White Brett Anthony , Dumay John
Published: December 2018

While much has been written about the investment criteria of business angels, few studies explore why these particular criteria are important to them. The Australian context has a diverse range of actors along with complex jurisdictional arrangements, making for an interesting background for investigation of the angel finance phenomenon. We examine 12 business angels in the rapidly changing Australian context and use nine corroborating participants to validate responses and identify four key drivers – personal experience, trust, the need to contribute and realistic expectations – that influence business angels during the initial investment process.
Influence of feeding a grass hay diet during the early stage of the fattening period on growth performance, carcass characteristics, and meat production in Japanese Black steers
Authors: Shibata Masahiro , Hikino Yasuko , Matsumoto Kazunori
Published: December 2018

The present study investigated the influence of feeding a large amount of grass hay to steers from the early to middle fattening period on growth, carcass characteristics, and meat characteristics. Steers were randomly divided into grass hay‐fed (GHF, n = 6) and concentrate‐fed (CF, n = 6) groups. The dressed weight of the GHF steers was lower than that of the CF steers, but the final body weight was not significantly different between the groups. The GHF steers had decreased subcutaneous fat and rib thickness compared with the CF steers. Lipid content, monounsaturated fatty acids, and drip loss in the muscles were lower in the GHF steers than in the CF steers. Furthermore, n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids were higher in the GHF steers compared with the CF steers. The GHF steers had lower body weight during the middle fattening stage, which may have occurred as a result of muscle growth suppression caused by increased Myostatin expression; an increase in daily gain during the finishing period may have occurred as a result of muscle growth activation caused by decreased Myostatin expression. Feeding steers a grass hay‐based diet during the early fattening period possibly maintains the quantitative productivity of beef similarly to feeding a concentrate‐based diet.
Stevioside inhibits experimental fibrosis by down‐regulating profibrotic Smad pathways and blocking hepatic stellate cell activation
Authors: Casas‐Grajales Sael , Alvarez‐Suarez Diana , Ramos‐Tovar Erika , Dayana Buendía‐Montaño Laura , Reyes‐Gordillo Karina , Camacho Javier , Tsutsumi Víctor , Lakshman M. Raj , Muriel Pablo
Published: December 2018

Liver cirrhosis is associated with increased morbidity and mortality with important health and social consequences; however, an effective treatment has not been found yet. Previous reports have shown some beneficial effects of stevioside (SVT) in different diseases, but the ability of SVT to inhibit liver cirrhosis has not been reported. Therefore, we studied the potential of this diterpenoid to inhibit liver cirrhosis induced by thioacetamide, a model that shares many similarities with the human disease, and investigated the possible underlying molecular mechanism using in vivo and in vitro approaches. Cirrhosis was induced in male Wistar rats by chronic thioacetamide administration (200 mg/kg) intraperitoneally three times per week. Rats received saline or SVT (20 mg/kg) two times daily intraperitoneally. In addition, co‐cultures were incubated with either lipopolysaccharide or ethanol. Liver fibrosis, hepatic stellate cells activation, metalloproteinases activity, canonical and non‐canonical Smads pathway and expression of several profibrogenic genes were evaluated. Thioacetamide activated hepatic stellate cells and distorted the liver parenchyma with the presence of abundant thick bands of collagen. In addition, thioacetamide up‐regulated the protein expression of α‐smooth muscle actin, transforming growth factor‐β1, metalloproteinases‐9,‐2 and ‐13 and overstimulate the canonical and non‐canonical Smad pathways. SVT administration inhibited all of these changes. In vitro, SVT inhibited the up‐regulation of several genes implicated in cirrhosis when cells were exposed to lipopolysaccharides or ethanol. We conclude that SVT inhibited liver damage by blocking hepatic stellate cells activation, down‐regulating canonical and non‐canonical profibrotic Smad pathways.
Allogeneic stem cell transplantation as part of front line therapy for Mantle cell lymphoma
Authors: Rule Simon , Cook Gordon , Russell Nigel H. , Hunter Ann , Robinson Stephen , Morley Nick , Sureda Anna , Patrick Pip , Clifton‐Hadley Laura , Adedayo Toyin , Kirkwood Amy , Peggs Karl S.
Published: December 2018

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is an aggressive form of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma that remains incurable for the majority of patients. Allogeneic stem cell transplantation (alloSCT) produces long‐term disease‐free remissions for around 30–40% patients, however it is reserved for the treatment of relapsed disease. This study examined the use of front line transplantation for young patients in an attempt to improve outcomes. Twenty‐five patients received an alloSCT using BEAM [BCNU (carmustine), etoposide, cytarabine, melphalan)‐Campath conditioning following permissive induction therapy from both related and unrelated donors. This was a multi‐centre prospective trial. Twenty‐four of 25 patients engrafted with no non‐relapse mortality events by day 100. With a median follow‐up of 60·5 months, there have been six deaths (3 from MCL). The progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival were 68% and 80% at 2 years and 56% and 76% at 5 years. PFS was very similar for both sibling and unrelated transplants and there was no difference in PFS between patients with respect to remission status prior to transplantation. Nine (38%) patients experienced acute graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) and 14 (58%) experienced chronic GVHD, of which 8 were extensive. Front line alloSCT is feasible but should only be considered for patients at high risk of early progression following conventional therapy.
Exploring the mechanisms underlying the social identity–ill‐health link: Longitudinal and experimental evidence
Authors: Junker Nina M. , van Dick Rolf , Avanzi Lorenzo , Häusser Jan A. , Mojzisch Andreas
Published: December 2018

There is strong and consistent evidence that identification with social groups is an important predictor of (ill‐)health‐related outcomes. However, the mediating mechanisms of the social identification–health link remain unclear. We present results from two studies, which aimed to test how perceived social support and collective self‐efficacy mediate the effect of social identification on emotional exhaustion, chronic stress, and depressive symptoms. Study 1 (N = 180) employed a longitudinal two‐wave design, whereas Study 2 (N = 100) used a field‐experimental design with a manipulation of participants’ social identity. Both studies consistently show that social identification was positively related to perceived social support, which, in turn, was positively associated with collective self‐efficacy. Collective self‐efficacy, finally, was negatively related to ill‐health outcomes.
End‐of‐life care research on people with intellectual disabilities: Challenges for proactive inclusion in an Irish context
Authors: Cithambaram Kumaresan , Duffy Mel , Courtney Eileen
Published: December 2018

Accessible Summary

People with intellectual disabilities are living longer than ever before.

Although people with intellectual disabilities are living longer, they still suffer from many illnesses. This may reduce their lifespan, and they may die earlier than other people and therefore require good end‐of‐life care whatever age they die.

Views and opinions of people with intellectual disabilities are important in determining what is good care at the end of life.

Ethical and practical guidelines in relation to recruitment, obtaining consent, and having conversation around sensitive issues are clearly discussed in this paper.

Background

In recent times, people with intellectual disabilities are increasingly included in research studies; however, their participation in sensitive research such as palliative and end‐of‐life care is less frequent. The reasons for not including people with intellectual disabilities in these kinds of research studies are issues in relation to obtaining consent, difficulty of recruiting, and engaging and collecting relevant information. This paper aimed to provide insight into how people with intellectual disabilities could be proactively included in research which is sensitive to their unique needs.

Method

This study included 13 people with mild and moderate intellectual disabilities and explored their end‐of‐life care needs from their perspectives. After obtaining appropriate ethical approval, the research process was commenced. Applying the constructive grounded theory approach, data were collected and analysed by using the constant comparative method. A story from the book Am I Going to Die was used to enhance the understanding of the concepts of death and dying while collecting data.

Findings

Participants with intellectual disabilities were recruited by establishing a close relationship with service providers. Capacity to consent and informed consent were fostered by carefully explaining the research process through easy‐to‐read information, and the data collection process was successfully completed by having a person‐centred approach.

Conclusion

People with intellectual disabilities can be successfully included in research. This is possible when their diverse needs are carefully considered, and appropriately developed protocols which meet their needs in relation to their capacities and abilities are utilised. This approach requires a flexible and inclusive research process.
Design, synthesis, and biologic evaluation of novel galloyl derivatives as HIV‐1 RNase H inhibitors
Authors: Gao Ping , Wang Xueshun , Sun Lin , Cheng Xiqiang , Poongavanam Vasanthanathan , Kongsted Jacob , Álvarez Mar , Luczkowiak Joanna , Pannecouque Christophe , De Clercq Erik , Lee Kuo‐Hsiung , Chen Chin‐Ho , Liu Huiqing , Menéndez‐Arias Luis , Liu Xinyong , Zhan Peng
Published: December 2018

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) reverse transcriptase (RT)‐associated ribonuclease H (RNase H) remains as the only enzyme encoded within the viral genome not targeted by current antiviral drugs. In this work, we report the design, synthesis, and biologic evaluation of a novel series of galloyl derivatives with HIV‐1 RNase H inhibitory activity. Most of them showed IC50s at sub‐ to low‐micromolar concentrations in enzymatic assays. The most potent compound was II‐25 that showed an IC50 of 0.72 ± 0.07 μM in RNase H inhibition assays carried out with the HIV‐1BH10 RT. II‐25 was 2.8 times more potent than β‐thujaplicinol in these assays. Interestingly, II‐25 and other galloyl derivatives were also found to inhibit the HIV IN strand transfer activity in vitro. Structure–activity relationships (SAR) studies and molecular modeling analysis predict key interactions with RT residues His539 and Arg557, while providing helpful insight for further optimization of selected compounds.
Young People as Co‐producers in Policing across England. An Evaluation of the ‘Youth Commission’ on Police and Crime
Authors: Burns Samantha
Published: December 2018

This paper discusses a recent study on three ‘Youth Commission’ on police and crime projects. Professional viewpoints were interpreted to understand how they valued young people's participation and made sense of their experiences and capabilities. Framed within policing reforms, the ‘Youth Commission’ projects regard young people as co‐producers, who work in partnership with professionals to address police and crime issues. The focus is upon professionals and their relationships with young people for transformative participation and social outcomes. Working in partnerships showed interdependency but identifies further challenges if professionals do not truly value young people's participation.
Echocardiographic strain in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and hypertensive left ventricular hypertrophy
Authors: Sun Jing‐Ping , Xu Ting‐Yan , Ni Xian‐Da , Yang Xing‐Sheng , Hu Jun‐Li , Wang Shao‐Chun , Li Yan , Bahler Robert C. , Wang Ji‐Guang
Published: December 2018

Background

The myocardial structure differs between secondary left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). We investigated left ventricular function of these two types of hypertrophy using multilayer strain analysis with two‐dimensional echocardiography.

Methods

Transthoracic echocardiography (Vivid‐E9) was performed in 240 patients with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF ≥50%) and with either HCM (n = 80, 63 men, age 49.8 ± 14.1 years), hypertensive LVH (n = 80, 63 men, age 51.4 ± 13.3 years) or normal blood pressure and left ventricular structure (n = 80, 63 men, 50.8 ± 12.4 years). Quantitative multilayer longitudinal strain (LS), circumferential strain (CS), and radial strain (RS) were analyzed. The ratio of endo‐/epi‐myocardial strain was calculated.

Results

Longitudinal strain was significantly (P < 0.001) lower in HCM patients than normal controls (15.2 ± 4.2% vs 23.1 ± 2.7%), especially in hypertrophic segments (14.5 ± 4.4% vs 17.2 ± 3.2% in nonhypertrophic segments, P < 0.01). LS was lower in patients with hypertensive LVH, similarly in all left ventricular segments (20.7 ± 3.7%, P < 0.001 vs controls). CS was lower in the mid‐ and epicardium (P < 0.01), but not endocardium in HCM (P = 0.4), and preserved in all myocardial layers in hypertensive LVH. The endo‐/epi‐myocardial ratios of both LS and CS were higher in HCM than hypertensive LVH (P < 0.01). RS was higher (P < 0.01) in HCM than hypertensive LVH and controls. Endocardial CS and global RS were correlated with LVEF (r ≥ 0.32, P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy patients had marked reductions in LS and CS, whereas patients with hypertensive LVH had less reduction in LS and preserved CS. The increased endo‐/epi‐myocardial ratios of LS and CS may be useful in differentiating HCM from hypertensive LVH.
Pyramids and cascades: a synthesis of food chain functioning and stability
Authors: Barbier Matthieu , Loreau Michel
Published: December 2018

Food chain theory is one of the cornerstones of ecology, providing many of its basic predictions, such as biomass pyramids, trophic cascades and predator–prey oscillations. Yet, ninety years into this theory, the conditions under which these patterns may occur and persist in nature remain subject to debate. Rather than address each pattern in isolation, we propose that they must be understood together, calling for synthesis in a fragmented landscape of theoretical and empirical results. As a first step, we propose a minimal theory that combines the long‐standing energetic and dynamical approaches of food chains. We chart theoretical predictions on a concise map, where two main regimes emerge: across various functioning and stability metrics, one regime is characterised by pyramidal patterns and the other by cascade patterns. The axes of this map combine key physiological and ecological variables, such as metabolic rates and self‐regulation. A quantitative comparison with data sheds light on conflicting theoretical predictions and empirical puzzles, from size spectra to causes of trophic cascade strength. We conclude that drawing systematic connections between various existing approaches to food chains, and between their predictions on functioning and stability, is a crucial step in confronting this theory to real ecosystems.
Association between non‐high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and the prevalence of asymptomatic extracranial internal carotid artery stenosis in a Chinese community‐based study
Authors: Wu J. , Wang Y. , Wang A. , Jia J. , Wang X. , Zhao X.
Published: December 2018

Background and purpose

Extracranial internal carotid artery thromboembolism is one major cause of ischaemic stroke and the predictive value of non‐high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (non‐HDLC) is superior to low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLC). This study aimed to assess the association between non‐HDLC levels and the prevalence of asymptomatic extracranial internal carotid artery stenosis (EICAS) as well as the predictive value of non‐HDLC over LDLC on EICAS presence.

Methods

The Asymptomatic Polyvascular Abnormalities Community study is a subset of the Kailuan study emphasizing asymptomatic polyvascular abnormalities in Chinese adults. A total of 5351 participants, aged ≥40, without history of cardiovascular disease were enrolled in this study. Carotid duplex ultrasonography was carried out for the detection of EICAS.

Results

Of the 5351 patients, 2.5% (131/5351) were diagnosed with EICAS (stenosis ≥50%). Univariate analysis showed that non‐HDLC is an independent indicator for asymptomatic EICAS [odds ratio (OR) 1.49, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.17–1.91]; the same result was reached in multivariate analysis after adjustment for confounding factors (OR 1.32, 95% CI 1.00–1.75), especially for people with hypertension (OR 1.52, 95% CI 1.11–2.08), whilst non‐HDLC failed to show better predictive value of EICAS than LDLC (OR 1.45, 95% CI 1.02–2.05).

Conclusions

Non‐HDLC is an independent risk factor for EICAS prevalence, especially for hypertension patients. Although the predictive value of non‐HDLC was no better than LDLC on EICAS presence, non‐HDLC is still a powerful atherogenic factor and potential therapeutic target for EICAS.
Realizing Relational Preferences Through Transforming Interpersonal Patterns
Authors: Gaete Joaquín , Sametband Inés , St. George Sally , Wulff Dan , Tomm Karl , Durán Gabriela
Published: December 2018

Family therapy has often been conceptualized as a conversational process whereby therapists and clients generate new meanings. Based on a 3‐year study of conversational practices observable in successful family therapy processes of Chilean families with a child/adolescent who is engaged in disruptive behaviors, we looked for clinical examples of Transforming Interpersonal Patterns (TIPs). TIPs are a key aspect of the IPscope, a framework we used to explore the meaning‐making processes in family therapy. TIPs constitute a novel approach to explore therapeutic processes by identifying empirically traceable conversational practices involved in generating “new meanings.” TIPs are involved in bringing forth and discursively articulating (“talking‐into‐being”) clients’ preferred ways of relating and living (i.e., relational preferences or RPs). We analyze conversational data from successful family therapy sessions/treatments, and present an emergent model of five categories of conversational practices making up TIPs, namely: Preparatory TIPs, Identifier TIPs, Tracker TIPs, Transformer TIPs, and Consolidator TIPs. We have called them “realizers” because these conversational practices help families talk‐into‐being (or “make real”) particular relational preferences. We also offer user‐friendly descriptors of realizers’ subcategories (e.g., Measuring TIPs) which may help practitioners to recognize, learn, and perform these conversational invitations. Theoretical consequences and future lines of research are discussed.
Characterization of two steroid hydroxylases from different Streptomyces spp. and their ligand‐bound and ‐unbound crystal structures
Authors: Dangi Bikash , Lee Chang Woo , Kim Ki‐Hwa , Park Sun‐Ha , Yu Eun‐Ji , Jeong Chang‐Sook , Park Hyun , Lee Jun Hyuck , Oh Tae‐Jin
Published: December 2018

Bacterial cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes are involved in the hydroxylation of various endogenous substrates while using a heme molecule as a cofactor. CYPs have gained biotechnological interest as useful biocatalysts capable of altering chemical structures by adding a hydroxyl group in a regiospecific manner. Here, we identified, purified, and characterized two CYP154C4 proteins from Streptomyces sp. W2061 (StCYP154C4‐1) and Streptomyces sp. ATCC 11861 (StCYP154C4‐2). Activity assays showed that both StCYP154C4‐1 and StCYP154C4‐2 can produce 2′‐hydroxylated testosterone, which differs from the activity of a previously described NfCYP154C5 from Nocardia farcinica in terms of its 16α‐hydroxylation of testosterone. To better understand the molecular basis of the regioselectivity of these two CYP154C4 proteins, crystal structures of the ligand‐unbound form of StCYP154C4‐1 and the testosterone‐bound form of StCYP154C4‐2 were determined. Comparison with the previously determined NfCYP154C5 structure revealed differences in the substrate‐binding residues, suggesting a likely explanation for the different patterns of testosterone hydroxylation, despite the high sequence similarities between the enzymes (54% identity). These findings provide valuable insights that will enable protein engineering for the development of artificial steroid‐related CYPs exhibiting different regiospecificity.
Maternal and offspring methylenetetrahydrofolate‐reductase genotypes interact in a mouse model to induce autism spectrum disorder‐like behavior
Authors: Sadigurschi Noa , Golan Hava M.
Published: December 2018

Individuals with autism constitute a variable population whose members are spread along the autism spectrum. Subpopulations within that spectrum exhibit other conditions, such as anxiety, intellectual disabilities, hyperactivity and epilepsy, with different severities and co‐occurrences. Among the genes associated with the increased risk for autism is the methylenetetrahydrofolate‐reductase (MTHFR) 677C>T polymorphism, which impairs one‐carbon (C1) metabolic pathway efficiency. The frequency of the MTHFR677TT homozygote is markedly higher among autism patients and their mothers than in the general population. Here, we report on the Mthfr heterozygous knockout (KO) mouse as a rodent model of autism that shows the contributions of maternal and offspring genotypes to the development of autistic‐like behaviors. Maternal Mthfr‐deficiency was associated with developmental delays in morphogenic features and sensory‐motor reflexes in offspring. In the adult male mouse, behaviors representing core autism symptoms, such as repetitive behavior and restricted interest, were affected by maternal genotype while social behaviors were affected by both maternal and offspring genotypes. In females and males, behaviors associated with autism such as memory impairment, social aggression and anxiety were affected by both the maternal and offspring Mthfr genotypes, with sex‐dependent differences. Mthfr‐deficient male mice with observable impacts on behavior presented a particular laminar disturbance in parvalbumin interneuron density and innervation in superficial and deep layers of the cingulate cortex. This mouse model of autism will help to elucidate the molecular mechanisms that predispose a significant subgroup of autistic patients to abnormal development and to distinguish between the in‐utero and autonomous factors involved in autism.
Prevalence of atrial fibrillation and associated anticoagulant therapy in the nonagenarian population of the Community of Madrid, Spain
Authors: Lahoz Carlos , Cardenas Juan , Salinero‐Fort Miguel Á , Mostaza José M
Published: December 2018

Aims

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the prevalence of atrial fibrillation (AF) in nonagenarians living in the Community of Madrid, their clinical features, the use of anticoagulant therapy and factors associated with its use.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study of 59 423 individuals aged ≥90 years, living in the Community of Madrid on 31 December 2015. Clinical information was obtained from a database that includes information from electronic medical records collected by 3881 general practitioners in primary care.

Results

Some 16.95% of nonagenarians (n = 10 077) were diagnosed with atrial fibrillation. These individuals have a higher prevalence of classic risk factors and established cardiovascular disease, as well as higher comorbidity. Of these, 67.6% received anticoagulant therapy, 27.9% received antiplatelet agents and 7.2% received both treatments simultaneously. Of the participants administered anticoagulation, 11.6% received a direct oral anticoagulant. The use of anticoagulant therapy was associated with a younger age, the presence of heart failure or venous thromboembolism, the absence of hypertension, a higher Barthel Index score, a greater number of prescribed drugs, a higher body mass index and a lower Charlson Comorbidity Index score.

Conclusions

Nonagenarians with atrial fibrillation have a high risk of stroke; however, high comorbidity and functional impairment have limited the use of anticoagulant therapy. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19: 203–207.
Synthesis and properties of ferrimagnetic glass‐ceramics and glass fibers derived from pyrite slag
Authors: Liu Jianan , Zhu Chaofeng , Zhang Meimei , Yang Xuena
Published: December 2018

Ferrimagnetic nano‐crystal glass‐ceramics and glass fibers were prepared based on the ferrosilicate glass system of SiO2–Fe2O3–B2O3–Al2O3 using large amount of pyrite slag (PS) and small quantities of pure chemicals. Two different fabrication methods were employed, eg, annealing and fiber‐drawing method, without performing any nucleation and crystallization heat treatments. The influence of PS content on the magnetite spontaneous crystallization is investigated by the X‐ray diffraction, FTIR, SEM, and TEM. The X‐ray diffraction patterns show the presence of nanometric magnetite crystals in glass matrix. The ferrimagnetic glass fibers with a diameter of about 20 μm were one‐step drawn. The magnetic hysteresis loops of the glass‐ceramic and glass fiber samples were analyzed using a vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). Electromagnetic parameters of samples were also examined.
Functional protein rich extracts from bovine and porcine hearts using acid or alkali solubilisation and isoelectric precipitation
Authors: Tsermoula Paraskevi , Virgili Claudia , Ortega Rodrigo G. , Mullen Anne M. , Álvarez Carlos , O'Brien Nora M. , O'Flaherty Elisabeth A. A. , O'Neill Eileen E.
Published: December 2018

Alkali solubilisation (ALS) was compared with acid solubilisation (ACS) for preparation of protein rich extracts from bovine and porcine hearts. ACS and ALS recovered 51.53%–55.74% of the total protein from bovine and porcine hearts. All extracts were rich in myofibrillar proteins with both treatments resulting in reductions in fat, collagen and cholesterol contents compared with starting materials. At 0% NaCl, ACS and ALS extracts had good gelling properties with the ALS gels having lower % cook loss. While treatments did not affect gel hardness, ACS extracts formed gel networks with higher storage modulus after heating and cooling. At 2% NaCl gel hardness, % cook loss and storage modulus values increased, with greater increases occurring for ACS extracts. The results show that ALS‐ and ACS‐based processes have potential to produce functional ingredients for processed meat products.
Secondary traumatic stress experiences of nurses caring for cancer patients
Authors: Partlak Günüşen Neslihan , Üstün Besti , Serçekuş Ak Pınar , Büyükkaya Besen Dilek
Published: December 2018

Aim

The aim of this study was to explore secondary traumatic stress experiences of nurses caring for cancer patients.

Methods

A qualitative descriptive approach was taken in the study. The team conducted semi‐structured in‐depth interviews with 13 oncology nurses. We evaluated the responses collected using content analysis.

Results

Three distinct themes emerged from the interviews: cycle of desperation, coping, and change.

Conclusion

Based on the results obtained, it is suggested that programs containing cognitive restructuring techniques be developed; peer support groups may enable senior nurses to guide inexperienced nurses.
Subclinical hypothyroidism during pregnancy: the Melbourne public hospitals consensus
Authors: Hamblin Peter S. , Sheehan Penelope M. , Allan Carolyn , Houlihan Christine A. , Lu Zhong X. , Forehan Simon P. , Topliss Duncan J. , Gilfillan Christopher , Krishnamurthy Bala , Renouf Debra , Sztal‐Mazer Shoshana , Varadarajan Suresh
Published: December 2018

Background

Interest in potential adverse outcomes associated with maternal subclinical hypothyroidism (normal free T4, elevated thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH)) has increased significantly over recent years. In turn, the frequency of maternal thyroid function testing has risen, despite universal thyroid function screening not being recommended, leading to a marked increase in referrals to obstetric endocrinology clinics. In 2017 the American Thyroid Association revised their diagnostic and management guidelines. Although welcome, these new guidelines contain recommendations that may cause confusion in clinical practice.

Aim

To ensure uniform practice in the diagnosis and management of subclinical hypothyroidism in pregnancy across all Melbourne public hospitals.

Methods

Endocrinology and obstetric representatives from all Melbourne public hospital networks reviewed the 2017 American Thyroid Association guidelines and other relevant literature to develop a consensus for diagnosing and treating subclinical hypothyroidism during pregnancy in Melbourne. The consensus guidelines were then referred to the Endocrine Society of Australia for comment and endorsement.

Results

Consensus was achieved and the guidelines were endorsed by the Council of the Endocrine Society of Australia. Trimester and assay‐specific TSH reference intervals derived from healthy local populations should be used, where available. When unavailable, a TSH cut‐off of 4 mU/L (replacing the previously recommended 2.5 mU/L) should be used to initiate treatment, irrespective of thyroid auto‐antibody status. The recommended starting dose of levothyroxine is 50 μg daily, with a therapeutic TSH target of 0.1–2.5 mU/L. Levothyroxine should generally be ceased after delivery, with some exceptions. Hospitals will ensure smooth transfer of care back to the woman’s general practitioner with clear documentation of pregnancy thyroid management and a recommended plan for follow‐up.

Conclusion

Fewer women will be classified as having subclinical hypothyroidism during pregnancy, which is likely to lead to reductions in emotional stress, hospital visits, repeated blood tests and financial costs. Uniform clinical practice will occur across Melbourne.