bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictors of Effective Working Memory Training in Individuals with Alcohol Use Disorders
Authors: Gunn Rachel L. , Gerst Kyle R. , Wiemers Elizabeth A. , Redick Thomas S. , Finn Peter R.
Published: September 2018

Background

Low working memory (WM) capacity is associated with alcohol use disorders (AUDs). The importance of WM to adaptive functioning has led to a recent influx of studies attempting to improve individual WM capacity using various cognitive training methods. The present study aimed to examine the efficacy of complex WM training for improving WM capacity among individuals with AUD.

Methods

Individuals were randomized to complete either adaptive WM training or active control training. We applied a methodologically rigorous and structured approach, including a battery of near and moderate transfer measures in those with AUDs and a control group. Additionally, we examined cognitive factors (at baseline) and other predictors of adherence, training task improvement, and transfer.

Results

Results suggest improved WM in individuals with AUDs and controls, as evidenced by improved scores on several transfer measures, after adaptive WM training. However, individuals with AUDs showed poorer adherence and less improvement on the training tasks themselves. Neither IQ, WM, sex, nor condition predicted adherence. Level of training task performance, baseline WM, and IQ predicted transfer task improvement.

Conclusions

This is the first study to rigorously examine both the efficacy of WM training in those with AUDs, and predictors of successful training program adherence and transfer in a large sample. Among study completers, results suggest that AUD status does not predict training improvement and transfer. However, AUD status did predict lower program adherence. WM training was more effective in those with higher cognitive ability at baseline. This study provides direct translation to the development of cognitive interventions for treating AUD.
Sex Differences in Peer Selection and Socialization for Alcohol Use from Adolescence to Young Adulthood and the Influence of Marital and Parental Status
Authors: Windle Michael , Windle Rebecca C.
Published: September 2018

Background

Peer selection and socialization influences for alcohol and other substance use have been a prominent area of research especially, though not exclusively, across adolescence. This study used 4‐wave prospective data from 1,004 young adults to evaluate selection and socialization influences for young adults’ alcohol use and friends’ alcohol use from late adolescence to later young adulthood, and incorporated the time‐varying predictors of marital and parental status. In addition, sex differences in peer selection and socialization processes were tested.

Methods

Participants were recruited from high schools, and assessments were based on self‐reports initially collected in adolescence (at age 17.0 years) via paper‐and‐pencil surveys and in young adulthood at ages 23.8, 28.9, and 33.5 years via computer‐based individual interviews (computer‐assisted personal interview and audio computer‐assisted self‐interviewing). Initial sampling included a 76% participation rate, and the retention rate was 83%. Cross‐lagged panel regression models were used to evaluate hypotheses about peer selection and socialization.

Results

Findings indicated that friend selection processes were stronger than socialization processes across adolescence to young adulthood. Adopting marital and (especially) parental roles was negatively associated with young adults’ alcohol use and percentage of friends using alcohol, and the magnitude of these relationships was stronger and more consistent for females.

Conclusions

These findings indicated that across the adolescence‐to‐young adulthood transition, peer selection processes were more influential than peer socialization. Marital and parental roles were associated with both lower young adult alcohol use and a lower percentage of friends using alcohol, with stronger role‐related effects for females relative to males.
Using Placebo Beverages in Group Alcohol Studies
Authors: Bowdring Molly A. , Sayette Michael A.
Published: September 2018

Background

Placebo beverage conditions remain a key element in the methodological toolkit for alcohol researchers interested in evaluating pharmacological and nonpharmacological factors influencing the effects of alcohol consumption. While interest in experimentally examining alcohol in social context is on the rise, there has been little research examining the effectiveness of placebo manipulations in group settings, when just 1 suspicious participant could potentially jeopardize the effect of the placebo on group members. Moreover, research has rarely considered the association between individual difference factors (e.g., gender) and placebo manipulation effectiveness. The present study, using an uncommonly large sample of placebo‐consuming participants, was well suited to investigate fundamental questions regarding placebo efficacy that have not been assessed previously. Specifically, we aimed to examine placebo efficacy and general processes of placebo functioning in a group context. We also assessed potential associations between a variety of individual difference factors and placebo response.

Methods

A total of 240 participants (50% male) consumed placebo beverages during a triadic drinking period (across 80 three‐person groups). Participants reported their subjective intoxication, stimulation, and sedation 8 minutes following drink consumption and estimated the alcohol content of their drink at the end of the study.

Results

Participants consuming placebo beverages in groups were nearly universal in reporting that they had consumed alcohol (>99%) and had experienced an increase in feelings of intoxication [t(239) = 22.03, p < 0.001] and stimulation [t(239) = 5.53, p < 0.001], levels that were similar to those observed in prior studies conducted with participants drinking placebos in isolation. Further, participants’ placebo responses were independent of their 2 group members and were largely unaffected by a variety of individual difference factors.

Conclusions

Placebo response generally operated independently of group‐member influences, suggesting that researchers can successfully conduct placebo beverage studies utilizing group drinking designs.
Genome‐wide scan reveals divergent selection among taurine and zebu cattle populations from different regions
Authors: Edea Z. , Dadi H. , Dessie T. , Uzzaman M. R. , Rothschild M. F. , Kim E.‐S. , Sonstegard T. S. , Kim K.‐S.
Published: September 2018

In this study, to identify genomic signatures of divergent selection, we genotyped 10 cattle breeds/populations (n = 275), representing eight Ethiopian cattle populations (n = 229) and two zebu populations (n = 46) adapted to tropical and sub‐tropical environments, using the high‐density single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) derived mainly from Bos indicus breeds, and using five reference taurine breeds (n = 212). Population genetic differentiation (FST) values across sliding windows were estimated between zebu and reference combined taurine breeds. The most differentiated regions (FST ≥ 0.53), representing the top 1% smoothed FST values, were considered to represent regions under diversifying selection. In total, 285 and 317 genes were identified in the comparisons of Ethiopian cattle with taurine and Asian zebu with taurine respectively. Some of these genes are involved in stress responses/thermo‐tolerance and DNA damage repair (HSPA4, HSF1, CMPK1 and EIF2AK4), pigmentation (ERBB3 and MYO1A), reproduction/fertility (UBE2D3, ID3 and PSPC1), immune response (PIK3CD and AKIRIN2) and body stature and size (MBP2, LYN and NPM1). Additionally, the candidate genes were associated with functional terms (e.g. cellular response to stress, DNA repair, inflammatory response) important for physiological adaptation to environmental stresses. The results of our study may shed light on the influence of artificial and natural selection in shaping the genomic diversity of modern cattle breeds and also may serve as a basis for further genetic investigation of traits of tropical adaptation in cattle.
A frameshift variant in the COL5A1 gene in a cat with Ehlers‐Danlos syndrome
Authors: Spycher M. , Bauer A. , Jagannathan V. , Frizzi M. , De Lucia M. , Leeb T.
Published: September 2018

Ehlers‐Danlos syndrome (EDS) is a group of heritable connective tissue disorders caused by defective collagen synthesis or incorrect assembly of the collagen triple helical structure. EDS is characterised by joint hypermobility, skin hyperextensibility, abnormal scarring, poor wound healing and tissue friability. Human EDS may be caused by variants in several different genes including COL5A1, which encodes the collagen type V alpha 1 chain. For the present study we investigated a 1.5‐year‐old, spayed female, domestic shorthair cat with EDS. The affected cat showed multiple recurrent skin tears, hyperextensibility of the skin and joint abnormalities. We obtained whole genome sequencing data from the affected cat and searched for variants in candidate genes known to cause EDS. We detected a heterozygous single base‐pair deletion in exon 43 of the COL5A1 gene, namely c.3420delG. The deletion was predicted to result in a frameshift and premature stop codon: p.(Leu1141SerfsTer134). Sanger sequencing confirmed that the variant was present in the affected cat and absent from 103 unaffected cats from different breeds. The variant was also absent from a Burmese cat with EDS. Based on knowledge about the functional impact of COL5A1 variants in other species, COL5A1:c.3420delG represents a compelling candidate causative variant for the observed EDS in the affected cat.
DYNC1H1 gene methylation correlates with severity of spinal muscular atrophy
Authors: Maretina Marianna , Egorova Anna , Baranov Vladislav , Kiselev Anton
Published: September 2018

Methylation profiles of CpG islands within the SLC23A2, CDK2AP1, and DYNC1H1 genes and their association with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) severity were studied. High clinical heterogeneity of SMA suggests the existence of different factors modifying SMA phenotype with gene methylation as a plausible one. The genes picked up in our earlier genome‐wide methylation studies of SMA patients demonstrated obvious differences in their methylation patterns, thus suggesting the likely involvement of their protein products in SMA development. Significantly decreased methylation of CpG islands within exon 37 of the DYNC1H1 gene was observed in patients with a severe SMA manifestation (type I) compared to mildly affected SMA patients (types III–IV). This finding provides new information on peculiarities of methylation in clinically different types of SMA patients and gives a clue for identification of new SMA modifiers.
Effect of early probiotic supplementation on childhood cognition, behaviour and mood a randomised, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Slykerman R F , Kang J , Van Zyl N , Barthow C , Wickens K , Stanley T , Coomarasamy C , Purdie G , Murphy R , Crane J , Mitchell E A
Published: September 2018

Aim

To determine whether probiotic supplementation in early life improves neurocognitive outcomes assessed at 11 years of age.

Methods

A total of 474 children who were born March 2004–Aug 2005 participated in a two‐centre randomised placebo‐controlled trial of infants at risk of developing allergic disease. Pregnant women were randomised to take Lactobacillus rhamnosus strain HN001, Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis strain HN019 or placebo daily from 35 weeks gestation until six months if breastfeeding, and their infants the same treatment from birth to two years. Intelligence, executive function, attention, depression and anxiety were assessed when the children were 11 years of age.

Results

A total of 342 (72.2%) children were assessed (HN001 n = 109, HN019 n = 118 and placebo n = 115). Overall, there were no significant differences in the neurocognitive outcomes between the treatment groups.

Conclusion

HN001 and HN019 given in early life were not associated with neurocognitive outcomes at 11 years of age in this study. However, we cannot exclude that other probiotics may have a beneficial effect. Further clinical trials are indicated.
Editorial: interferon‐free DAAs are a great boon for patients with hepatitis C and cryoglobulinaemia
Authors: Atsukawa M. , Tsubota A.
Published: September 2018

Linked Content

This article is linked to Gragnani et al and Zignego et al papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14845 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14936.
Editorial: surviving your genes—the role of PNPLA3 variation in end‐stage liver disease. Authors’ reply
Authors: Mandorfer Mattias , Scheiner Bernhard , Reiberger Thomas , Ferlitsch Arnulf ,   the Vienna Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab
Published: September 2018

Linked Content

This article is linked to Mandorfer et al and Pirola and Sookoian papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14856 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14901.
Evidence of different models of socially responsible HRM in Europe
Authors: Diaz‐Carrion Rosalia , López‐Fernández Macarena , Romero‐Fernandez Pedro M.
Published: September 2018

Socially responsible human resource management (SR‐HRM) is becoming increasingly important for academics and managers. The interface between HRM and corporate social responsibility (CSR) is the subject of analysis in this article. It adopts a contextual perspective to analyze whether the institutional context influences the implementation of socially responsible HRM (SR‐HRM). Considering the differences in the national institutional contexts across Europe, this study explores the different models of SR‐HRM in that region. The research is focused on a sample of 153 companies headquartered in Germany, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. The findings evidence the influence exerted by the national institutional context on the implementation of SR‐HRM. Differences among country clusters suggest the existence of different models of SR‐HRM in Europe. However, these models do not correspond to the blocks on HRM or on CSR identified by the literature but instead provide a novel categorization.
Materials‐to‐develop‐with: The making of a makerspace
Authors: Keune Anna , Peppler Kylie
Published: September 2018

Celebrating hands‐on making and technological inventiveness, the Maker Movement promotes the popularity of new makerspaces: learning environments filled with diverse materials for youth’s creative projects. Described as “constructionist learning environments,” makerspaces can be challenging to design because materials require substantial budgetary investments. Because the practical demands of space and cost often dominate decisions concerning a new makerspace, less attention is paid to how the choice of materials inadvertently limits who uses the space, how learning happens, or how materials in a space will interact and intra‐act over time. Building on theories of constructionism and relational materialism to analyze and theorize learning in makerspaces, we take a case‐based approach to illustrate the co‐development of 3D printing materials, youth and educational programs at an out‐of‐school makerspace. In the process, we demonstrate the need to rethink the role of materials in human development and educational design. We introduce the concept of materials‐to‐develop‐with to explain how objects can be internalized and drive the development of spaces, people and learning opportunities.
Characterising potential bone scan overuse amongst men treated with radical prostatectomy
Authors: Kirk Peter S. , Borza Tudor , Caram Megan E.V. , Shumway Dean A. , Makarov Danil V. , Burns Jennifer A. , Shelton Jeremy B. , Leppert John T. , Chapman Christina , Chang Michael , Hollenbeck Brent K. , Skolarus Ted A.
Published: September 2018

Objectives

To characterise bone scan use, and potential overuse, after radical prostatectomy (RP) using data from a large, national integrated delivery system. Overuse of imaging is well documented in the setting of newly diagnosed prostate cancer, but whether overuse persists after RP remains unknown.

Patients and methods

We identified 12 269 patients with prostate cancer treated with RP between 2005 and 2008 using the Veterans Administration Central Cancer Registry. We used administrative and laboratory data to examine rates of bone scan use, including preceding prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) levels, and receipt of adjuvant or salvage therapy. We then performed multivariable logistic regression to identify factors associated with post‐RP bone scan use.

Results

At a median follow‐up of 6.8 years, one in five men (22%) underwent a post‐RP bone scan at a median PSA level of 0.2 ng/mL. Half of bone scans (48%) were obtained in men who did not receive further treatment with androgen‐deprivation or radiation therapy. After adjustment, post‐RP bone scan was associated with a prior bone scan (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.55, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.32–1.84), positive surgical margin (aOR 1.68, 95% CI 1.40–2.01), preoperative PSA level (aOR 1.02, 95% CI 1.01–1.03), as well as Hispanic ethnicity, Black race, and increasing D'Amico risk category, but not with age or comorbidity.

Conclusion

We found a substantial rate of bone scan utilisation after RP. The majority were performed for PSA levels of <1 ng/mL where the likelihood of a positive test is low. More judicious use of imaging appears warranted in the post‐RP setting.
Pathological upgrading at radical prostatectomy for patients with Grade Group 1 prostate cancer: implications of confirmatory testing for patients considering active surveillance
Authors: Kaye Deborah R. , Qi Ji , Morgan Todd M. , Linsell Susan , Ginsburg Kevin B. , Lane Brian R. , Montie James E. , Cher Michael L. , Miller David C. ,   the Michigan Urological Surgery Improvement Collaborative
Published: September 2018

Objective

To examine the association between National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) risk, number of positive biopsy cores, age, and early confirmatory test results on pathological upgrading at radical prostatectomy (RP), in order to better understand whether early confirmatory testing and better risk stratification are necessary for all men with Grade Group (GG) 1 cancers who are considering active surveillance (AS).

Patients and Methods

We identified men in Michigan initially diagnosed with GG1 prostate cancer, from January 2012 to November 2017, who had a RP within 1 year of diagnosis. Our endpoints were: (i) ≥GG2 cancer at RP and (ii) adverse pathology (≥GG3 and/or ≥pT3a). We compared upgrading according to NCCN risk, number of positive biopsy cores, and age. Last, we examined if confirmatory test results were associated with upgrading or adverse pathology at RP.

Results

Amongst 1966 patients with GG1 cancer at diagnosis, the rates of upgrading to ≥GG2 and adverse pathology were 40% and 59% (P < 0.001), and 10% and 17% (P = 0.003) for patients with very‐low‐ and low‐risk cancers, respectively. Upgrading by volume ranged from 49% to 67% for ≥GG2, and 16% to 23% for adverse pathology. Generally, more patients aged ≥70 vs <70 years had adverse pathology. Unreassuring confirmatory test results had a higher likelihood of adverse pathology than reassuring tests (35% vs 18%, P = 0.017).

Conclusions

Upgrading and adverse pathology are common amongst patients initially diagnosed with GG1 prostate cancer. Early use of confirmatory testing may facilitate the identification of patients with more aggressive disease ensuring improved risk classification and safer selection of patients for AS.
Surgical checklist impact on recurrence‐free survival of patients with non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer undergoing transurethral resection of bladder tumour
Authors: Suarez‐Ibarrola Rodrigo , Soria Francesco , Abufaraj Mohammad , D'Andrea David , Preto Mirko , Gust Kilian M. , Briganti Alberto , Shariat Shahrokh F. , Gontero Paolo
Published: September 2018

Objectives

To evaluate the impact of an eight‐item surgical checklist (SC) on the recurrence‐free survival (RFS) of patients with non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) undergoing transurethral resection of bladder tumour (TURBT).

Patients and Methods

A group of urologists at two tertiary referral centres, with expertise in bladder cancer, identified eight critical items that should be performed in every high‐quality TURBT. An eight‐item SC was prospectively implemented into clinical practice and the operative reports of TURBTs performed before and after implementation were reviewed. Results from both institutions were combined to estimate the impact of introducing the SC on oncological outcomes. Multivariable logistic and Cox hazards regression analyses were performed to evaluate the impact of the SC on the presence of detrusor muscle in the TURBT specimen and on RFS, respectively.

Results

The operative reports of 266 TURBTs performed after the SC implementation were reviewed and compared to those of 281 TURBTs performed prior to the SC introduction. The SC was independently associated with a significant improvement in RFS (P = 0.02). However, the introduction of the SC was not significantly associated with the presence of detrusor muscle in the surgical specimen (P = 0.4).

Conclusion

The use of an eight‐item SC during TURBT in clinical practice increases the quality of operative reports thereby potentially improving individualised risk‐stratification and care resulting in lower disease recurrence rates. Therefore, the introduction of a SC can be recommended to enhance oncological outcomes by improving surgical standardisation and operative reporting.
CASH TRANSFERS, INTERGENERATIONAL MOBILITY, AND THE PROCESS OF DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Murayama Yu
Published: September 2018

We examine how cash transfers affect an individual's education investment, intergenerational mobility, and economic growth. We find that providing larger transfer amounts to higher ability children is desirable to foster growth if the economy has relatively low wage inequality.
Alcohol binge disrupts the rat intestinal barrier: the partial protective role of oleoylethanolamide
Authors: Antón M , Rodríguez‐González A , Ballesta A , González N , del Pozo A , de Fonseca F R , Gómez‐Lus M L , Leza J C , García‐Bueno B , Caso J R , Orio L
Published: September 2018

Background and Purpose

Chronic alcohol consumption alters the gut–brain axis, but little is known about alcohol binge episodes on the functioning of the intestinal barrier. We investigated the influence of ethanol binges on bacterial translocation, gut inflammation and immunity, and tight junction (TJ) structure and the ability of the biolipid oleoylethanolamide (OEA) to prevent ethanol binge‐induced intestinal barrier dysfunction.

Experimental Approach

OEA was injected i.p. before repeated ethanol administration by oral gavage. Plasma, spleen, liver and mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN) were collected in sterile conditions for determination of bacterial load. Immune/inflammatory parameters, TJ proteins and apoptotic markers were determined in colonic tissue by RT‐PCR and Western blotting. TJ ultrastructure was examined by transmission electron microscopy.

Key Results

Ethanol binges induced bacterial translocation to the MLN (mainly) and spleen. Colonic tissues showed signs of inflammation, and activation of innate (Toll‐like receptor‐4) and adaptive (IgA) immune systems and TJ proteins (occludin and claudin‐3) were decreased after ethanol binges. Pretreatment with OEA reduced intestinal inflammation and immune activation and partially preserved the TJ structure affected by alcohol binges but had no effect on alcohol‐induced apoptosis. Ultrastructural analyses of colonic TJs revealed dilated TJs in all ethanol groups, with less electron‐dense material in non‐pretreated rats. The protective effects of i.p. OEA did not reduce bacterial translocation to the MLN. However, intragastric OEA administration significantly reduced plasma LPS levels and bacterial translocation to the MLN.

Conclusion and Implications

OEA‐based pharmacotherapies could potentially be useful to treat disorders characterized by intestinal barrier dysfunction, including alcohol abuse.
Subcutaneous adipose tissue therapy reduces fat by dual X‐ray absorptiometry scan and improves tissue structure by ultrasound in women with lipoedema and Dercum disease
Authors: Ibarra M. , Eekema A. , Ussery C. , Neuhardt D. , Garby K. , Herbst K. L.
Published: September 2018

Lipoedema is painful nodular subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) on legs and arms of women sparing the trunk. People with Dercum disease (DD) have painful SAT masses. Lipoedema and DD fat resists loss by diet and exercise. Treatments other than surgery are needed. Six women with lipoedema and one with DD underwent twelve 90‐min sessions over 4 weeks. Body composition by dual X‐ray absorptiometry scan, leg volume, weight, pain, bioimpedance, tissue size by caliper and ultrasound were analysed before and after SAT therapy by paired t‐tests. There was a significant decrease from baseline to end of treatment in weight, 87.6 ± 21 to 86.1 ± 20.5 kg (P = 0.03), leg fat mass 17.8 ± 7.7 to 17.4 ± 7.6 kg (P = 0.008), total leg volume 12.9 ± 4 to 12 ± 3.5 L (P = 0.007), six of 20 calliper sites and tissue oedema. Pain scores did not change significantly. By ultrasound, six women had 22 hyperechoic masses in leg fat that resolved after treatment; five women developed seven new masses. Fascia improved by ultrasound after treatment. SAT therapy reduced amount and structure of fat in women with lipoedema and Dercum disease; studies are needed to compare SAT therapy to other therapies.
Long‐term retention in an employer‐based, commercial weight‐loss programme
Authors: Alexander E. , Tseng E. , Durkin N. , Jerome G. J. , Dalcin A. , Appel L. J. , Clark J. M. , Gudzune K. A.
Published: September 2018

The aim of this study is to examine factors associated with long‐term retention in a commercial weight‐loss programme. We conducted a retrospective analysis of an employer‐based, commercial programme from 2013 to 2016. Our dependent variable was ‘long‐term retention’, defined as continuously enrolled participants who actively engaged through coach calls at 6 and 12 months. Independent variables included baseline demographics, programme engagement and weight change. We conducted multivariate logistic regression analyses assessing for differences in long‐term retention by several factors, adjusted for employer clustering. Overall, 68.3% were retained at 6% and 45.9% at 12 months. Greater number of coach calls and website logins during the first 3 months significantly increased the odds of long‐term retention, while having chronic conditions significantly decreased the odds. Weight‐loss success (≥5% loss at 6 months) was significantly associated with increased odds of retention (12‐month: odds ratio [OR] 2.80, P < 0.001), while early weight‐loss failure (≥0% weight change at 1 month) significantly decreased odds of retention (12‐month: OR 0.66, P = 0.008). In an employer‐based, commercial weight loss programme, greater early programme engagement was associated with long‐term retention. Given these programmes’ popularity and potential reach, our results could be used to develop and test strategies designed to improve retention in commercial weight‐loss programmes.
The efficacy of ablation‐based combination therapy for vitiligo: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: King Yih‐An , Tsai Tsung‐Yu , Tsai Hsiou‐Hsin , Huang Yu‐Chen
Published: September 2018

Background and objectives

This study aimed to compare the efficacy of vitiligo treatments with and without ablation therapy.

Patients and methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis of literature published before September 15, 2017. Comparative studies of vitiligo patients treated with and without ablation therapy were included. The primary outcome was ≥ 50 % repigmentation. Secondary outcomes were ≥ 75 % repigmentation and patient scores on a subjective visual analogue scale.

Results

Fifteen studies with a total of 401 participants were included. The ablation‐based combination therapy group had significantly superior results to the control group (odds ratio [OR] for ≥ 50 % repigmentation: 10.490, 95 % confidence interval [CI]: 4.632–23.757; OR for ≥ 75 % repigmentation: 5.812, 95 % CI: 2.194–15.393). Patients receiving ablation‐based combination therapy were significantly more satisfied with the efficacy than the control group (standardized mean difference: 1.073, 95 % CI: 0.528–1.619). Subgroup analysis showed that the erbium laser group, CO2 laser group and fractional CO2 laser group achieved significantly better repigmentation than the control groups.

Conclusions

According to objective and subjective evaluations, treatments for vitiligo are more effective when combined with ablation therapy than when used alone.
Histological intralesional heterogeneity of actinic keratoses relates to field cancerization
Authors: Schmitz Lutz , Stücker Markus , Gambichler Thilo , Stockfleth Eggert , Dirschka Thomas
Published: September 2018

Background/Objectives

Histological heterogeneity within distinct actinic keratosis (AK) lesions has been described and might serve as an additional feature of AKs. We aimed to investigate and quantify the histological heterogeneity of AKs regarding different grading systems.

Methods and Material

We assessed the histology of 3 mm biopsies of AK lesions located on the scalp or face. We documented basal proliferation (PRO I–III), histological grade (AK I–III) and determined the overall classification of each lesion.

Results

Of the 305 lesions included, 48 (15.7 %) lesions were classified as AK I, 152 (49.8 %) as AK II and 105 (34.4 %) as AK III. 33 AKs (10.8 %) showed no basal proliferation, 94 (30.8 %) were graded as PRO I, 99 (32.5 %) as PRO II and 79 (25.9 %) as PRO III. One histological grade and basal growth pattern per lesion was observed in 94 (30.8 %) and 104 (34.1 %) cases respectively, two grades in 170 (55.7 %) and 168 (55.1 %) cases, and three grades in 41 (13.4 %) and 33 (10.8 %) cases (Chi‐squared test, p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

By analogy with the clinical heterogeneity of field cancerization, AKs show a high histological grade heterogeneity even within small lesions. Variations in AK grading reflect the heterogeneity of the cancerization field and might serve as additional feature.
Female type of adult acne: Physiological and psychological considerations and management
Authors: Dreno Brigitte , Bagatin Edileia , Blume‐Peytavi Ulrike , Rocha Marco , Gollnick Harald
Published: September 2018

Today we see more cases of acne after adolescence, with a greater prevalence in females than males. Adult female acne has a distinct clinical presentation and is associated with a number of specific pathophysiological features and gender‐specific triggers. The psychological impact of acne is generally significant and largely underestimated; stress during professional and private life, anxiety and sleep quality, in particular, have a reciprocal relationship with disease susceptibility and severity. It is essential to compare with males. Acne in females often causes greater distress in adults than in adolescents. The impact of disease may therefore be greater for female patients, triggering higher levels of psychosocial anguish and increasing the likelihood of sequelae such as skin picking and the risks of cutaneous superinfection, scarring and PIH and acne recurrence. The management of adult female acne should encompass not just medical treatment of the symptoms, but also a comprehensive, holistic approach to the patient as a whole, her individual lifestyle factors and the impact of acne on her quality of life. Future management of this disease should aim to improve patient adherence to therapy and to develop validated outcomes of treatment regarding overall skin appearance and quality of life.
The vocabulary spurt predicts the emergence of backward semantic inhibition in 18‐month‐old toddlers
Authors: Chow Janette , Aimola Davies Anne M. , Fuentes Luis J. , Plunkett Kim
Published: September 2018

The current study examines the relationship between 18‐month‐old toddlers’ vocabulary size and their ability to inhibit attention to no‐longer relevant information using the backward semantic inhibition paradigm. When adults switch attention from one semantic category to another, the former and no‐longer‐relevant semantic category becomes inhibited, and subsequent attention to an item that belongs to the inhibited semantic category is impaired. Here we demonstrate that 18‐month‐olds can inhibit attention to no‐longer relevant semantic categories, but only if they have a relatively large vocabulary. These findings suggest that an increased number of items (word knowledge) in the toddler lexical‐semantic system during the “vocabulary spurt” at 18‐months may be an important driving force behind the emergence of a semantic inhibitory mechanism. Possessing more words in the mental lexicon likely results in the formation of inhibitory links between words, which allow toddlers to select and deselect words and concepts more efficiently. Our findings highlight the role of vocabulary growth in the development of inhibitory processes in the emerging lexical‐semantic system.
Measuring levels of muscle fatigue in spastic cerebral palsy
Authors: Ratel Sébastien , Doré Eric , Duché Pascale
Published: September 2018

This commentary is on the original article by Eken et al. on pages 212–218 of this issue.
Comparison of echocardiographic parameters in Fabry cardiomyopathy and light‐chain cardiac amyloidosis
Authors: Marek Josef , Palecek Tomas , Magne Julien , Lavergne David , Boulogne Cyrille , Fadel Bahaa M. , Jaccard Arnaud , Linhart Ales , Mohty Dania
Published: September 2018

Background

Fabry cardiomyopathy (FC) and light‐chain amyloid cardiomyopathy (AL) present with concentric left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy/remodeling and diastolic rather than systolic dysfunction. Direct comparisons are difficult due to rarity and confounded by variability of LV thickness.

Aims

To compare LV diastolic and systolic properties between patients with FC and AL in a cohort matched for interventricular septal thickness (IVS).

Methods

A two‐center echocardiographic analysis was performed, comprising 118 patients with IVS ≥12 mm (FC and AL 59 patients each) matched by IVS.

Results

Fabry cardiomyopathy patients had larger LV end‐diastolic diameter (47.7 [44.0–50.9] vs 45.0 [41.5–49.0] mm, P = 0.002), better LV ejection fraction (EF 68.7 [63.4–74.0] vs 63.0 [54.0–70.0]%, P = 0.001) and midwall fractional shortening (midFS 14.8 [13.0–16.1] vs 12.1 [8.9–15.0]%, P = 0.006). LV EF <40% was rare in both (2% vs 7%, P = 0.17). AL patients expressed higher LV diastolic dysfunction grade (III in 26% vs 4%, II in 21% vs 12% and I in 54% vs 84%, P = 0.004), with higher E/e’ ratio (13.6 [10.2–18.8] vs 9.8 [7.5–12.3], P < 0.0001). Average E/e’ ratio and midFS were significantly associated with NYHA severity in both groups (P < 0.05 for all).

Conclusions

Matched AL patients had worse LV diastolic function than FC, driven by E/e’. Significant LV systolic dysfunction was rare overall. MidFS and E/e’ were associated with heart failure severity in both groups.
Validation and usability of a mobile phone application for epidemiological surveillance of traumatic dental injuries
Authors: Zaror Carlos , Espinoza‐Espinoza Gerardo , Atala‐Acevedo Claudia , Muñoz‐Millán Patricia , Li Yunhan , Clarke Ken , Onetto Juan , Díaz Jaime , Hallet Kerrod , Manton David , Mariño Rodrigo
Published: September 2018

Background/Aim

Traumatic dental injuries (TDI) are a public health problem, given their prevalence and consequences. However, their epidemiology is uncertain due to a general lack of quality data capture. The aim of this study was to evaluate the validity and usability of a mobile phone‐based application for community‐based surveillance of traumatic dental injuries.

Materials and Methods

A mobile phone‐based application, Dental Trauma Tracker (DTT), was developed. This system involves a mobile application for general users to report TDIs and a Web application for researchers to generate epidemiological data. The DTT evaluation used mixed methods and was conducted in three phases: (a) validation of a trauma identification system using preselected TDI images; (b) design evaluation by experts; and (c) usability evaluation measured by the reporting of three fictitious TDI cases and using the System Usability Scale (SUS).

Results

In the first phase, 182 participants participated. Most images showed over 95% accuracy, indicating that they adequately represented the type of dentoalveolar trauma being evaluated (κ = 0.75). The design evaluation identified nine usability problems—four of them with a “High priority” to be fixed, four with “Low priority,” and one “No fix necessary.” A total of 29 volunteers participated in the usability evaluation. The mean time for users to complete all of the reports was 7.8 ± 3.0 minutes. Mean SUS score was 67.4 ± 21.9 (Range: 0‐100; worst to best). The global agreement between cases registered with the gold standard was also “Substantial” (κ = 0.71).

Conclusions

This preliminary evaluation confirmed the App's usability, using a sample of potential users, as well as reporting on the results of an expert panel review of the DTT. These are the minimum requirements necessary before further expansion and widespread implementation occurs to confirm these results.
Working class educational transitions to university: The limits of success
Authors: Reay Diane
Published: September 2018

Educational transitions experienced within a context of wide and growing inequalities such as England result in very different transition experiences to those experienced by young people growing up in relatively equitable societies with strong communal links. Transitions of working class young people in England are beset with competition, individualism and low expectations. Employing Pierre Bourdieu’s concepts of habitus, capital and field, the article argues that working class transitions to university reveal the failure of the English educational system to provide anything like a level playing field to support working class young people who are seen to be educational successes. Focusing on those working class young people who are particularly successful by gaining access to elite universities the paper argues that even this small select group face discrimination, set‐backs, and a degree of social exclusion. The paper concludes that the vast majority of working class young people, including many of those who are the most academically successful have very different transitions to higher education, and experiences within it, from their middle and upper class peers.
The Ecumenical Movement and 1968
Authors: Schilling Annegreth
Published: September 2018

The year 1968 is remembered as a turning point in ecumenical history: the 4th Assembly of the World Council of Churches (WCC) in Uppsala appeared to mark the end of the era of early ecumenism and the beginning of a new era. This article questions this understanding of “Uppsala” and examines the reasons for such a mythologization of the assembly through analyzing its themes and conflicts in a twofold way. First, the analysis shows the connection between the students' revolts of 1968 and the assembly. Second, the article draws on the assembly's main theme, “Behold, I make all things new,” and the key aspects of ecumenical renewal discussed at the assembly: the new relationship between the WCC and the Roman Catholic Church, the WCC's commitment to development issues, liberation from racism, and the churches' role in political conflicts. While these themes became a symbol for identifying the assembly with a groundbreaking ecumenical change, the article argues that this change had already begun in the early 1960s, and that the assembly at Uppsala was more the medial and visible expression of this continuing ecumenical turbulence than its source.
Uppsala 1968 – The Swedish Context
Authors: Jonson Jonas
Published: September 2018

The 4th Assembly of the World Council of Churches (WCC) in Uppsala, Sweden, in 1968 was an event of global significance, drawing participants from around the world under the theme “Behold, I make all things new.” At the same time, it was an event taking place in Sweden – a country that by the 1960s had become a model of “responsible society,” with strong economic growth, an all‐encompassing welfare state, and an ambitious policy for international development that was channelling material aid to Southern Africa. For the Church of Sweden, the assembly marked a continuity with the 1925 World Conference on Life and Work convened in Stockholm by Swedish Archbishop Nathan Söderblom. In turn, the Swedish churches themselves were influenced by the Uppsala assembly, especially in the renewal of liturgy and worship. This article explores the Swedish dimension of the Uppsala assembly through examining the legacy of the Stockholm conference of 1925, the societal and political context in Sweden of the 1960s, the participation of youth, and the impact of the assembly on Swedish church life.
Revisiting the Message to the People of South Africa: 1968–2018
Authors: de Gruchy John W.
Published: September 2018

The year 2018 marks the 50th anniversary of the publication of the Message to the People of South Africa in 1968, the same year in which the 4th Assembly of the World Council of Churches was held in Uppsala. The Message was the first major South African ecumenical statement that rejected apartheid as unbiblical and unchristian, a “false gospel.” At the time it was likened to the Barmen Declaration of the Confessing Church in Germany (1934). It also set in motion a process of ecumenical opposition to apartheid that prepared the way for declaring its theological justification a heresy and its practice a sin that had to be rejected and resisted. This article sets out the background to the Message, describes the process which led to its publication, outlines its content, and considers its significance looking back after 50 years.
The World in Theology
Authors: Lavignotte Stéphane
Published: September 2018

This article focuses on the activity of French Protestant theologian Georges Casalis as a co‐editor of the French journal Christianisme social (Social Christianity) in the turbulent period between 1965 and 1970. The journal reflected the conflicts of the times on issues such as relations with Eastern Europe, Christian–Marxist dialogue, the new impulses coming from revolutionary movements of the South, and the events of May 1968.
The impact of supreme audit institutions and ombudsmen in Belgium and The Netherlands
Authors: van Acker Wouter , Bouckaert Geert
Published: September 2018

This article investigates the impact of the audit and ombud process on the implementation of recommendations made by supreme audit institutions and ombudsmen in Belgium and the Netherlands. Based on previous findings, the focus lies on influential internal and external factors in determining the effectiveness of the audit and ombud investigations. The article concludes that the impact of the process and factors often mentioned in the literature are less significant than found in other research. Political factors, such as coalition agreements and politicians trying to save face, seem to be much more influential in explaining the implementation rate.
Tropical hilsa shad (Tenualosa ilisha): Biology, fishery and management
Authors: Hossain M. Shahadat , Sharifuzzaman S. M. , Rouf Muhammad Abdur , Pomeroy Robert S. , Hossain Md Delwer , Chowdhury Sayedur R. , AftabUddin Sheikh
Published: September 2018

Tropical hilsa shad, which is an anadromous fish migrating from the sea to spawn in freshwater river, constitutes an important fishery in some Asian and Middle East countries, particularly in Bangladesh. But, historical information on hilsa biology and ecology has confronted the scientists and policymakers with research and management challenges. We have reviewed both the old and recent findings on hilsa fishery to document the status of knowledge and potential gaps, necessary to comprehend for formulating a more effective fishery management plan. Thus, there has been a decline in hilsa catches in the riverine system associated with shift in fish migration routes, indiscriminate harvesting of brood and juvenile fish, and degradation of habitat. Specifically, the riverine hilsa catches peaked in the 1960s, declining thereafter, and became relatively abundant in marine waters since 1990s. Biological data indicated that hilsa goes through multiple reproductive cycles; therefore, a comprehensive understanding of reproductive biology, recruitment by various cohorts, stock abundance and habitats across the life cycle are necessary to accurately impose fishery regulatory measures, such as fishing ban in spawning season in Bangladesh. Moreover, domestication initiative is important for artificial seed production and mariculture development of hilsa that can not only offer economic return to small‐scale farmers but also reduce the growing pressure on capture fishery. Importantly, the arrangement of co‐management is found ideal as fishermen, scientists and managers can work jointly to improve the regulatory processes and to sustain the hilsa fishery over time.
Sulodexide inhibits angiogenesis via decreasing Dll4 and Notch1 expression in mouse proepicardial explant cultures
Authors: Niderla‐Bielińska Justyna , Bartkowiak Krzysztof , Ciszek Bogdan , Jankowska‐Steifer Ewa , Krejner Alicja , Ratajska Anna
Published: September 2018

Sulodexide (SDX) is a mixed drug containing low‐molecular‐weight heparin sulfate and dermatan sulfate. It exerts mild anticoagulant action but can also affect leukocytes, macrophages, and cell–cell adhesion and may interact with growth factors although its direct influence on endothelial cells is not well described. Clinically, SDX is used for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, where it exerts anti‐inflammatory and endothelial protective effects. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of SDX on tubule formation and angiogenesis‐related proteins’ mRNA expression in endothelial cell line C166 and mouse proepicardial explants. C166 cells and explants were stimulated with a proangiogenic cocktail containing bFGF/VEGF‐A120/VEGF‐A164 enriched with SDX. After stimulation, the number and morphology of tubules stained with anti‐CD31 antibody were examined under confocal microscope and expression of mRNA for VEGF‐A, VEGF‐B, VEGF‐C, bFGF, IGF‐1, Dll4, and Notch1 was measured with real‐time PCR. In C166 cell line, there was no difference in tubule formation and mRNA expression, but in proepicardial explants, we observed reduction in tubule number and in mRNA level for DLL4 and Notch1 after SDX administration. In conclusion, SDX indirectly inhibits angiogenesis in mouse proepicardial explant cultures but has no direct effect on the C166 endothelial cell line.