bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structure factors and charge-density study of diamond at 800 K
Authors: Deguchi Yuka , Nishibori Eiji
Published: November 2018

The structure factors of diamond were determined by synchrotron radiation X-ray powder diffraction at 800 K at sin θ/λ ≤ 2.2 Å−1 reciprocal resolution. The structure factors were estimated using six powder profiles measured on beamline BL02B2 at SPring-8 (Hyogo, Japan). A high reciprocal resolution at sin θ/λ ≤ 2.2 Å−1 was required to reveal the temperature dependence of the charge density, due to the high Debye temperature of θD = 1860 K of diamond. Wide 2θ angle data with the highest counting statistics are crucial for accurate data analysis. The periodic noise of every six-pixel step was observed in the highest counting statistics imaging plate (IP) data scanned by a BAS2500 IP scanner. It was found that the noise originated from the six-sided polygonal mirror in the scanner. The intensity fluctuation at every six-pixel step was also found in the Fourier series expansion of the powder profiles. The ratio of the maximum fluctuation was estimated as 0.4% by summing all six-pixel step data. The powder profiles were corrected by multiplying the ratios. The intensity fluctuation in the background region was reduced to less than 50% of the uncorrected data. The weak 888 Bragg reflection, with an intensity of 0.005% of that of the 111 Bragg reflection at 800 K, was readily observed in the corrected data. Finally, the structure factors determined at 800 K were successfully applied to a charge-density study by multipole modelling. The reliability factors and multipole parameters at 800 K are in agreement with those at 300 K. The differences in the charge density at the bond midpoint and ∇2ρ at the bond-critical point were less than 1% and 2%, respectively.
On the economic long wave
Authors: Feng Gao
Published: November 2018

Purpose

There exist long-term fluctuations in the process of capital accumulation. The economic long wave is an essential part of research into non-mainstream western economics. After the Second World War, the capitalist world experienced the fourth long wave of expansion and then entered into a downward phase of the long wave in the 1970s. Regarding to whether a new long wave of expansion took place in the 1980s, left-wing scholars hold different viewpoints. The purpose of this paper is to focus on this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

First, based on the review of the long wave history, this paper discusses three kinds of long wave theories with significant influence and puts forward the theoretical framework of analyzing the long wave of capitalist economy. Next, under the guidance of this theoretical framework and in combination with the actual development and evolution of the capitalist economy, the issue of whether the fifth long wave of the capitalist economy began to emerge in the 1980s is discussed deeply.

Findings

This paper argues that, from the early 1980s to 2007, the US-dominated developed countries experienced a new long wave of expansion driven by the information technology revolution, the adjustment of the neoliberalism system and the economic globalization. However, the financial-economic crisis of 2008–2009 led to a new phase of long wave downswing.

Originality/value

This paper does not agree with the single-factor analysis of the intrinsic formation mechanism of economic long wave and sticks to the multi-factor analysis centering on the fluctuation of accumulation rate. It is pointed out that the evolution of the long wave of capitalist economy depends on the combined influence of technology, institutions and market. The study of the long wave of the economy will help us to correctly understand the historical stage and characteristics of the current world capitalist economy in the long-term fluctuations, so that we can make an appropriate and positive response.
School block grants as a model of financial decentralization in Iraq
Authors: Nair Swapna
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the channels of education financing as they exist currently in Iraq. It argues that the current model of financing is highly centralized and in order to encourage a school-based management and better school outcomes, there needs to be decentralization of financing. The paper considers block grants as a mechanism for decentralization and explores other country experiences in this area.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper opts for both an analytical and exploratory study of the financing channels in the education sector in Iraq based on both primary field-based surveys and secondary sources of information such as World Bank and UN documents. For understanding other country experience of school block grant provision, the paper reviews literature and attempts to find learnings for Iraq.

Findings

The paper provides a detailed insight into the service delivery modal and channels of education financing in Iraq across multiple tiers. It argues that the centralized model of education financing is one of the factors that contribute to weak school governance and school performance indicators. It explores the idea of school block grants as a model of decentralized financing and a review of other country experiences on provision of school block grants gives some interesting insights into what might work for Iraq.

Research limitations/implications

Economic wars, sanctions and conflict have severely affected the country and as a consequence there are very limited data and information available and this has impacted the study. Furthermore, though the country has been liberated from ISIS, the peace is fragile and any research findings have to be seen in this background.

Practical implications

The paper does not stop at identifying the problem, i.e. centralization of financing but attempts to explore and provide a way to get around this in the form of provision of school block grants.

Originality/value

There are very few studies that explore the service delivery model and financing channels in the education sector in Iraq and therefore this paper should add value to any discussion on post-conflict reconstruction.
Mentoring and professional identity formation for teaching stream faculty
Authors: Simmonds Anne H. , Dicks Andrew P.
Published: November 2018

Purpose

Peer-to-peer (P2P) mentorship has been identified as an important component of professional identity formation in higher education (HE). This may be especially true for education-focused or teaching stream (TS) faculty to thrive in times of changing organizational structures and work environments. The purpose of this paper is to present a critical reflection on the experiences in a faculty P2P mentoring for teaching program and considers the ways in which such programs can influence professional identity formation among TS academics.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, a matched faculty mentorship pair from Nursing and Chemistry disciplines uses critical reflection as a process of inquiry to interpret their experiences of building and sustaining an effective mentoring relationship as part of the P2P program, and to consider implications for professional identity formation and the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning.

Findings

Through the P2P program, the authors discovered that establishment of clear goals, a commitment to teaching and mentoring processes, and a mutual desire to build a relationship based on authenticity and reciprocity resulted in positive short- and long-term impacts on instructional practices. Professional identity was strengthened through intentional engagement and the opportunity to connect with like-minded peers, contributing to a renewed sense of confidence and commitment.

Originality/value

Interest in examining professional identity formation in HE has been growing over the past decade. This paper is novel in the critical reflection on a structured peer mentorship initiative through the lens of professional identity formation, with implications for planning and executing mentoring programs for TS faculty.
Latent Dirichlet allocation-based temporal summarization
Authors: Tazibt Ahmed Amir , Aoughlis Farida
Published: November 2018

Purpose

During crises such as accidents or disasters, an enormous volume of information is generated on the Web. Both people and decision-makers often need to identify relevant and timely content that can help in understanding what happens and take right decisions, as soon it appears online. However, relevant content can be disseminated in document streams. The available information can also contain redundant content published by different sources. Therefore, the need of automatic construction of summaries that aggregate important, non-redundant and non-outdated pieces of information is becoming critical.

Design/methodology/approach

The aim of this paper is to present a new temporal summarization approach based on a popular topic model in the information retrieval field, the Latent Dirichlet Allocation. The approach consists of filtering documents over streams, extracting relevant parts of information and then using topic modeling to reveal their underlying aspects to extract the most relevant and novel pieces of information to be added to the summary.

Findings

The performance evaluation of the proposed temporal summarization approach based on Latent Dirichlet Allocation, performed on the TREC Temporal Summarization 2014 framework, clearly demonstrates its effectiveness to provide short and precise summaries of events.

Originality/value

Unlike most of the state of the art approaches, the proposed method determines the importance of the pieces of information to be added to the summaries solely relying on their representation in the topic space provided by Latent Dirichlet Allocation, without the use of any external source of evidence.
Guiding the selection of service identification methods based on SOA maturity level
Authors: Bani-Ismail Basel , Baghdadi Youcef
Published: November 2018

Purpose

A mature adoption of a service-oriented architecture (SOA) goes steadily through different levels of maturity, whereby each level has its own types of services (e.g. software services or business services). However, the identification of such services is not an easy task even though there exist many service identification methods (SIMs). This paper aims to propose a new approach to select SIMs. The proposed selection approach for SIMs uses the desired SOA maturity level as the main guidance to assist the organizations in selecting a suitable SIM for each level of SOA maturity.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology consists of three activities: surveying and selecting a suitable evaluation framework for SIMs, surveying and selecting a suitable SOA maturity model (SOAMM) and using the selected evaluation framework to decide a suitable SIM for the desired SOA maturity level with respect to the selected SOAMM.

Findings

Welke’s SOAMM and two existing evaluation frameworks for SIMs were found suitable to validate the proposed selection approach for SIMs. The two selected frameworks utilized the proposed selection approach to different degrees. To fully utilize the proposed selection approach, a comprehensive evaluation framework is required that addresses the most significant aspects of the existing SIMs.

Originality/value

In this research, the authors propose a new way of using Welke’s SOAMM to guide the organizations in selecting a suitable SIM from the existing evaluation frameworks for SIMs based on the desired SOA maturity level. In addition, the proposed selection approach improves the applicability of the existing evaluation frameworks, as it provides the organizations with a new way to select the methods.
Improving consumers’ willingness to pay using social media activities
Authors: Torres Pedro , Augusto Mário , Wallace Elaine
Published: November 2018

Purpose

This study examines the impact of social media activities on consumers’ willingness to pay a premium price (WTPp) in the banking industry, and investigates the role of consumer-brand identification (CBI) on this relationship. For the first time, the effect of electronic word-of-mouth (eWOM) is considered separately from other social media marketing efforts (SMME).

Design/methodology/approach

Data from a sample of 145 banking customers that follow bank social networks was analysed using structural equation modelling and fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) to test a proposed structural model.

Findings

Findings indicate that the effect of eWOM and SMME on WTPp is fully mediated by CBI. The results uncover a viable path to achieve WTPp in the banking industry, which includes the joint presence of SMME, eWOM and CBI.

Research/limitations implications

The study was conducted on the banking sector of Portugal. It is advocated that further research would investigate the results in other service sectors, across different countries.

Practical implications

Findings highlight the importance of social media marketing in banking. Results reveal opportunities for managers in the banking sector to enhance CBI and ultimately WTPp, through SMME and eWOM.

Originality/value

The study is the first to consider the influence of SMME and eWOM as separate antecedents of WTPp. The findings indicate that the effect of eWOM and SMME on WTPp is fully mediated by CBI. In particular, the results of the fsQCA indicate that the combined presence of SMME, eWOM and CBI, is sufficient to obtain WTPp.
Secondary use of ABS co-polymer recyclates for the manufacture of structural elements using the FFF technology
Authors: Czyżewski Piotr , Bieliński Marek , Sykutera Dariusz , Jurek Marcin , Gronowski Marcin , Ryl Łukasz , Hoppe Hubert
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The aim of this paper is presenting a new application of material obtained from the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) recycling process from electronic equipment housings. Elements of computer monitors were used to prepare re-granulate, which in turn was used to manufacture a filament for fused filament fabrication (FFF) additive manufacturing technology.

Design/methodology/approach

The geometry of test samples (i.e. dumbbell and bar) was obtained in accordance with the PN-EN standards. Samples made with the FFF technology were used to determine selected mechanical properties and to compare the results obtained with the properties of ABS re-granulate mould pieces made with the injection moulding technology. The GATE device manufactured by 3Novatica was used to make the prototypes with the FFF technology. Processing parameters were tested with the use of an Aflow extrusion plastometer manufactured by Zwick/Roell and other original testing facilities. Tests of mechanical properties were performed with a Z030 universal testing machine, a HIT 50P pendulum impact tester and a Z3106 hardness tester manufactured by Zwick/Roell.

Findings

The paper presents results of tests performed on a filament obtained from the ABS re-granulate and indicates characteristic processing properties of that material. The properties of the new secondary material were compared with the available original ABS materials that are commonly used in the additive technology of manufacturing geometrical objects. The study also presents selected results of tests of functional properties of ABS products made in the FFF technology.

Originality/value

The test results allowed authors to assess the possibility of a secondary application of used elements of electronic equipment housings in the FFF technology and to compare the strength properties of products obtained with similar products made with the standard injection moulding technology.
Plant growth‐promoting archaea trigger induced systemic resistance in Arabidopsis thaliana against Pectobacterium carotovorum and Pseudomonas syringae
Authors: Song Geun Cheol , Im Hyunjoo , Jung Jihye , Lee Soohyun , Jung Man‐Young , Rhee Sung‐Keun , Ryu Choong‐Min
Published: November 2018

Archaea have inhabited the earth for a long period of time and are ubiquitously distributed in diverse environments. However, few studies have focused on the interactions of archaea with other organisms, including eukaryotes such as plants, since it is difficult to cultivate sufficient numbers of archaeal cells for analysis. In this study, we investigated the interaction between soil archaea and Arabidopsis thaliana. We demonstrate for the first time that soil archaea promote plant growth and trigger induced systemic resistance (ISR) against the necrotrophic bacterium Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. carotovorum SCC1 and biotrophic bacterium Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000. Ammonia‐oxidizing archaeon Nitrosocosmicus oleophilus MY3 cells clearly colonized the root surface of Arabidopsis plants, and increased resistance against both pathogenic species via the salicylic acid‐independent signalling pathway. This mechanism of bacterial resistance resembles that underlying soil bacteria‐ and fungi‐mediated ISR signalling. Additionally, volatile emissions from N. oleophilus MY3 were identified as major archaeal determinants that elicit ISR. Our results lay a foundation for archaea–plant interactions as a new field of research.
Outcomes in prevention and management of miscarriage trials: a systematic review
Authors: Smith PP , Dhillon‐Smith RK , O'Toole E , Cooper NAM , Coomarasamy A , Clark TJ
Published: November 2018

Background

There is a substantial body of research evaluating ways to prevent and manage miscarriage, but all studies do not report on the same outcomes.

Objective

To review systematically, outcomes reported in existing miscarriage trials.

Search strategy

MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and Cochrane were searched from inception until January 2017.

Selection criteria

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) reporting prevention or management of miscarriage. Miscarriage was defined as a pregnancy loss in the first trimester.

Data collection and analysis

Data about the study characteristics, primary, and secondary outcomes were extracted.

Main results

We retrieved 1553 titles and abstracts, from which 208 RCTs were included. For prevention of miscarriage, the most commonly reported primary outcome was live birth and the top four reported outcomes were pregnancy loss/stillbirth (n = 112), gestation of birth (n = 68), birth dimensions (n = 65), and live birth (n = 49). For these four outcomes, 58 specific measures were used for evaluation. For management of miscarriage, the most commonly reported primary outcome was efficacy of treatment. The top four reported outcomes were bleeding (n = 186), efficacy of miscarriage treatment (n = 105), infection (n = 97), and quality of life (n = 90). For these outcomes, 130 specific measures were used for evaluation.

Conclusions

Our review found considerable variation in the reporting of primary and secondary outcomes along with the measures used to assess them. There is a need for standardised patient‐centred clinical outcomes through the development of a core outcome set; the work from this systematic review will form the foundation of the core outcome set for miscarriage.

Tweetable abstract

There is disparity in the reporting of outcomes and the measures used to assess them in miscarriage trials.
Computerised analysis of intrapartum fetal heart rate patterns and adverse outcomes in the INFANT trial
Authors: Steer PJ , Kovar I , McKenzie C , Griffin M , Linsell L
Published: November 2018

Objective

To assess if a computerised decision support system reliably identified abnormal fetal heart rate (FHR) patterns in fetuses with adverse neonatal outcomes in the INFANT trial, and whether its use reduced substandard care.

Design

Prospective cohort study within a randomised controlled trial.

Setting

Twenty‐four maternity units in the UK and Ireland.

Population or sample

A total of 46 614 labours between January 6 2010 and August 31 2013 in the INFANT trial.

Methods

Panel review of intrapartum and neonatal care in infants with adverse outcome, and an assessment of the effectiveness of computerised interpretation of fetal heart rate in reducing substandard care. Descriptive analysis of other factors associated with adverse outcome.

Main outcome measures

Incidence and detection rate of abnormal fetal heart rate patterns, other characteristics associated with perinatal adverse outcome, and frequency of substandard care.

Results

Computer interpretation of FHR patterns was deemed to be completely valid in only 24 of 71 (33.8%) cases of adverse outcome. On a scale of 0–10 (completely invalid to completely valid), 28 cases (39.4%) had a score of 6 or less, mainly due to lack of recognition of decelerations (15 cases), or reduced variability (seven cases), or failure to recognise tachysystole (five cases). There were multiple associated factors that modified the clinical assessment of FHR patterns. There was substandard care in 45/71 cases (63%).

Conclusion

A significant proportion of abnormal fetal heart rate patterns were not detected accurately by computer analysis, and its use did not reduce the incidence of substandard care.

Funding

UK National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Assessment Programme (project number 06.38.01).

Tweetable abstract

Improved recognition of abnormal fetal heart rate patterns is insufficient to reduce the incidence of substandard care.
Changing the Gel‐Forming Properties of Myofibrillar Protein by Using a Gentle Breaking Method
Authors: Wang Lei , Cheng Jiaqi , Su Ruihua , Fan Daming , Huang Jianlian , Zhao Jianxin , Yan Bowen , Zhou Wenguo , Zhang Wenhai , Zhang Hao
Published: November 2018

Chopping and stirring methods were used to prepare surimi gels in a way that preserved their inherent characteristics while maintaining or improving their textural properties and microstructures. In samples with the same‐salt levels, the stirring process led to a higher gel strength than the chopping process (P < 0.05), improved the gels’ water holding capacity (WHC) and viscosity, and slightly decreased the amount of salt‐soluble protein. Low‐field nuclear magnetic resonance showed that the stirring method improved the WHC of the product more than the chopping method. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that the surimi gels produced by stirring with 3% salt had a denser and more uniform microstructure than those produced by chopping with 2% or 3% salt. Overall, the results indicated that the stirring method is comparatively more gentle than the chopping method and can produce high‐quality surimi gels that retain their original properties.

Practical Application

The study examines a gentle breaking method for improving the textural properties of surimi gels while remaining their original characteristics of fish. Stirring processing, as a low‐intensity breaking method, can significantly increase the gel strength and slightly increase the WHC of surimi gels compared to chopping methods. The method produces high‐quality products with nutritional value, which benefits both producers and customers.
Engineered cell‐to‐cell signalling within growing bacterial cellulose pellicles
Authors: Walker Kenneth T. , Goosens Vivianne J. , Das Akashaditya , Graham Alicia E. , Ellis Tom
Published: November 2018

Bacterial cellulose is a strong and flexible biomaterial produced at high yields by Acetobacter species and has applications in health care, biotechnology and electronics. Naturally, bacterial cellulose grows as a large unstructured polymer network around the bacteria that produce it, and tools to enable these bacteria to respond to different locations are required to grow more complex structured materials. Here, we introduce engineered cell‐to‐cell communication into a bacterial cellulose‐producing strain of Komagataeibacter rhaeticus to enable different cells to detect their proximity within growing material and trigger differential gene expression in response. Using synthetic biology tools, we engineer Sender and Receiver strains of K. rhaeticus to produce and respond to the diffusible signalling molecule, acyl‐homoserine lactone. We demonstrate that communication can occur both within and between growing pellicles and use this in a boundary detection experiment, where spliced and joined pellicles sense and reveal their original boundary. This work sets the basis for synthetic cell‐to‐cell communication within bacterial cellulose and is an important step forward for pattern formation within engineered living materials.
The bystander effect contributes to the accumulation of senescent cells in vivo
Authors: da Silva Paulo F. L. , Ogrodnik Mikolaj , Kucheryavenko Olena , Glibert Julien , Miwa Satomi , Cameron Kerry , Ishaq Abbas , Saretzki Gabriele , Nagaraja‐Grellscheid Sushma , Nelson Glyn , von Zglinicki Thomas
Published: November 2018

Senescent cells accumulate with age in multiple tissues and may cause age‐associated disease and functional decline. In vitro, senescent cells induce senescence in bystander cells. To see how important this bystander effect may be for accumulation of senescent cells in vivo, we xenotransplanted senescent cells into skeletal muscle and skin of immunocompromised NSG mice. 3 weeks after the last transplantation, mouse dermal fibroblasts and myofibres displayed multiple senescence markers in the vicinity of transplanted senescent cells, but not where non‐senescent or no cells were injected. Adjacent to injected senescent cells, the magnitude of the bystander effect was similar to the increase in senescence markers in myofibres between 8 and 32 months of age. The age‐associated increase of senescence markers in muscle correlated with fibre thinning, a widely used marker of muscle aging and sarcopenia. Senescent cell transplantation resulted in borderline induction of centrally nucleated fibres and no significant thinning, suggesting that myofibre aging might be a delayed consequence of senescence‐like signalling. To assess the relative importance of the bystander effect versus cell‐autonomous senescence, we compared senescent hepatocyte frequencies in livers of wild‐type and NSG mice under ad libitum and dietary restricted feeding. This enabled us to approximate cell‐autonomous and bystander‐driven senescent cell accumulation as well as the impact of immunosurveillance separately. The results suggest a significant impact of the bystander effect for accumulation of senescent hepatocytes in liver and indicate that senostatic interventions like dietary restriction may act as senolytics in immunocompetent animals.
Simplifying the language of fetal monitoring
Authors: Yeoh Melissa , Ameratunga Devini , Lee Jacinta , Beckmann Michael
Published: November 2018

Background

Health professionals in Australia and New Zealand have used various intrapartum fetal surveillance (IFS) guidelines, with clear differences in how these guidelines present information. Based on clinician feedback, the 2015 Queensland Clinical Guideline on IFS structured the prose‐based Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG) IFS Guidelines as a traffic‐light matrix and represented the categorical terms of unlikely, maybe, possible and likely fetal compromise, as the colours GREEN, BLUE, AMBER, and RED, respectively.

Aims

To determine whether the interpretation of the RANZCOG IFS Guidelines in Table Format is more accurate and quicker compared to the current presentation of the RANZCOG Guideline in prose format.

Materials and Method

Twenty‐nine clinicians, naïve to the use of the RANZCOG IFS Guidelines, interpreted ten cardiotocographs (CTGs) using one format and then the alternative format (totalling 580 CTG interpretations). Accuracy and time to decision were recorded as well as a participant questionnaire. A repeated measures analysis of variance was used to compare differences.

Results

Compared to prose format, clinicians interpreted CTGs quicker using the table format (P < 0.01), especially CTGs representative of unlikely and maybe fetal compromise. There was a trend toward more accurate interpretation for table format for all clinicians, with significance among medical officers (P = 0.02). Participants responded more favourably to the table format regarding questions about ease of use, determining actions required, and desire to use the system in the future (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Presenting the RANZCOG IFS Guideline in table format as opposed to prose format improved the speed and accuracy of CTG interpretation and is preferred by clinicians.
Risk factors for high myopia: a 22‐year follow‐up study from childhood to adulthood
Authors: Pärssinen Olavi , Kauppinen Markku
Published: November 2018

Purpose

To determine the effect of the definition of high myopia on its prevalence and risk factors for high myopia.

Methods

A total of 240 myopic schoolchildren (119 boys and 121 girls) at the mean age of 10.9 years (range 8.8–12.8 years) were recruited to a randomized clinical trial of myopia treatment among children from 3rd‐ and 5th grades of school referred for an eye examination due to poor distant vision and having no previous spectacles. Clinical follow‐ups, including refraction with cycloplegia, were conducted annually at 3 years [third follow‐up here = clinical follow‐up 1, (n = 237)], and thereafter twice at approximately 10‐year intervals [clinical follow‐ups 2 (n = 179) and 3, (n = 134)]. Additional refraction values between follow‐ups 2 and 3 were received from ophthalmologists and opticians’ prescriptions and records. The most recent adulthood refraction measure available was taken as the final refraction value for 204 (85%) of the original cohort [mean follow‐up time (±standard deviation) 22.1 (±3.9) years]. Parental myopia, time spent on reading and close work, watching TV and outdoor activities were assessed with a questionnaire at the clinical follow‐ups. The influence of different definitions of high myopia on its prevalence was analysed. The associations of different factors with high myopia were investigated.

Results

Mean spherical equivalent (SE) at baseline was −1.43 (±0.60) D, ranging from ‐0.38 D to −3.00 D. At follow‐up end, mean SE of the more myopic eye was −5.29 (±1.95) D, ranging from −1.00 D to −11.25 D. High myopia prevalence with the definitions SE < −6.00 D in the right eye and SE ≤ −6.00 D or ≤−5.00 D in either eye was 24%, 32% and 52%, respectively. In this study, high myopia was defined as spherical equivalent (SE) ≤ −6.00 D in either eye. If both parents were myopic, the odds ratio (OR) of having high myopia was 3.9 (95% CI: 1.5–10.4). Younger age at baseline predicted higher prevalence of high myopia; baseline ages between 8.8 and 9.7 and between 11.9 and 12.8 years gave prevalences 65% and 7%. Higher myopia at baseline, higher myopic progression between the first follow‐ups and more time spent on reading and close work as compared with time spent outdoors were associated with high myopia.

Conclusion

About 32% of the children receiving first spectacles for myopia between ages of 8.8–12.8 years had high myopia (SE ≤ −6.00 D in either eye) in adulthood. Different definitions of high myopia ranging between −5 D and −6 D lead to large differences in prevalence. A generally accepted definition of high myopia is thus needed. Parental myopia, age at baseline, myopic progression during the first post onset year, and more time spent on reading and close work and less on outdoor activities in childhood were associated with adulthood high myopia.
Objective assessment of robotic suturing skills with a new computerized system: A step forward in the training of robotic surgeons
Authors: Busch Caleb , Nakadate Ryu , Uemura Munenori , Obata Satoshi , Jimbo Takahiro , Hashizume Makoto
Published: November 2018

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to assess robot‐assisted suturing skills on a laparoscopic intestinal anastomosis model by using a novel computerized objective assessment system.

Methods

This study compared the suturing skills of 13 surgically naïve participants on an artificial intestinal anastomosis model that mimics real tissue. Each examinee sutured using da Vinci robot assistance under 2‐D and 3‐D visualization and with conventional laparoscopy (CL). Pressure‐measuring and image‐processing devices were employed to quantitatively evaluate suturing skills. Five unique criteria were used to evaluate the skills of participants.

Results

Suturing under 3‐D visualization (P < 0.01) and with CL (P < 0.05) were significantly faster than under 2‐D visualization. Sutures placed under 3‐D (P < 0.05) and 2‐D (P < 0.01) visualization had significantly better suture tension than those placed with CL, which did not meet acceptable values for suture tension. Sutures placed with CL had significantly better air pressure leakage than those placed under 2‐D visualization (P < 0.05), which did not meet acceptable values for air pressure leakage and wound opening area. One participants failed to achieve full‐thickness sutures with 2‐D, two participants with CL, and one participant with 3‐D.

Conclusion

Using 3‐D vision is necessary for complex maneuvering during robot‐assisted minimally invasive surgery. Our quantitative assessment system is useful for evaluating the skill acquisition of surgeon‐trainees undergoing robotic surgery training.
Blockchain and the Journey Beyond Double Entry
Authors: Carlin Tyrone
Published: November 2018

Whilst blockchain technology has attracted substantial attention within the scholarly literature of a number of disciplines, including economics, finance, law and technology, it has been subject to minimal discussion and scrutiny within the scholarly accounting literature. This article argues that this is a missed opportunity and that the maturation of blockchain technology may represent as profound a shift in accounting as the emergence and adoption of double‐entry accounting.
Anthropomorphism, social understanding, and imaginary companions
Authors: Tahiroglu Deniz , Taylor Marjorie
Published: November 2018

In two studies, we investigated the correlates of anthropomorphism, the attribution of unobservable mental states to inanimate entities and non‐human animals. In Study 1, we investigated the relations between anthropomorphism, social understanding, empathy, prosocial attitudes, and history of childhood imaginary companions in a college sample (N = 264;Mage = 19 years, 2 months). In Study 2, we explored the relations between two different measures of anthropomorphism, theory of mind, imaginary companions, and social preferences in 73 children (Mage = 5 years, 5 months). Anthropomorphism was not strongly correlated with social understanding in adults or with theory of mind in children. There was, however, some evidence for links between anthropomorphism and reports of having imaginary companions and social preferences. Moreover, the two measures of anthropomorphism were not correlated with each other and yielded different patterns of results in Study 2, a finding that is discussed in relation to different forms of anthropomorphism.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

There are individual differences in anthropomorphism in both adults and children.

There are two different methods to assess anthropomorphism: self‐reports and narration of movies of geometric shapes.

The two different methods that are used to assess anthropomorphism yield different developmental patterns.

What does this study add?

Individual differences in social understanding or theory of mind are not associated with individual differences in anthropomorphism.

Having a childhood imaginary companion is linked with a tendency to anthropomorphize in both children and adults.

Two measures of anthropomorphism are not correlated in children, consistent with the view that there are different forms of anthropomorphism.
Outcome of patients aged 80 years or older treated for chronic lymphocytic leukaemia
Authors: Al‐Sawaf Othman , Bahlo Jasmin , Robrecht Sandra , Fischer Kirsten , Herling Carmen D. , Hoechstetter Manuela , Fink Anna‐Maria , von Tresckow Julia , Langerbeins Petra , Cramer Paula , Stilgenbauer Stephan , Wendtner Clemens M. , Eichhorst Barbara , Hallek Michael , Goede Valentin
Published: November 2018

Clinical management of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) in patients aged ≥80 years is based on limited evidence due to the lack of published information. Therefore, we analysed CLL patients aged ≥80 years using data from seven phase III clinical trials of the German CLL Study Group. Among 3552 participants, 152 were ≥80 years old at initiation of first‐line study treatment. Median age was 82 years (range 80–90). Concomitant diseases were present in 99% of the patients, with a median cumulative illness rating scale score of 8 (0–18). Chemoimmunotherapy with chlorambucil‐obinutuzumab (CLB‐OB) or chlorambucil‐rituximab (CLB‐R) was administered to 61 (40%) and 56 (37%) patients. The remaining patients received CLB (n = 19) or fludarabine (F, n = 10), F/cyclophosphamide (FC, n = 1), FC/rituximab (FCR, n = 2) or bendamustine/rituximab (BR, n = 3). Rates of grade 3 or 4 neutropenia and infections were 35% and 13%. Overall response rate was 77% with 13% complete remissions. Median progression‐free survival and treatment‐free survival were 17·2 and 32·3 months, respectively. Median overall survival was 48·3 months; adverse events (22%) and progressive CLL (16·4%) were the most frequent causes of death. These findings suggest that anti‐leukaemic treatment including chemoimmunotherapy is feasible and efficacious in ≥80‐year‐old CLL patients. However, this group of patients lives for a shorter time than age‐matched controls of the general population.
Aplastic anaemia in pregnancy – a single centre, North American series
Authors: McGowan Kelly E. , Malinowski Ann K. , Schuh Andre C. , Whittle Wendy , Shehata Nadine
Published: November 2018

Aplastic anaemia (AA) is infrequently observed in pregnancy. We describe 19 pregnancies in 9 women at a tertiary care centre over a period of 30 years. Spontaneous resolution of AA did not occur postpartum in the five pregnancies where AA was first diagnosed in pregnancy. In the remaining pregnancies, although haematological indices declined and transfusion support was needed in 35% of pregnancies, relapses were not observed. There were no deaths, but complications occurred in 79% of pregnancies. Preterm delivery and postpartum haemorrhage were observed in 21% and 26% of pregnancies, respectively.
Genetic risk score modifies the effect of APOE on risk and age onset of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Shi Zhuqing , Yu Hongjie , Wu Yishuo , Ford Madison , Perschon Chelsea , Wang Chihsiung , Zheng Siqun L. , Xu Jianfeng
Published: November 2018

Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)‐based genetic risk score (GRS) and APOE genotype are both important in risk prediction of Alzheimer's disease (AD); however, the interaction between GRS and APOE has not been extensively investigated. Our objective was to determine whether GRS modifies the APOE effect on AD risk and age at onset (AAO). The study included 774 AD cases and 767 controls of European descent. Population standardized GRS was calculated based on 17 previously implicated AD risk‐associated SNPs. Association was analyzed using logistic regression, Cox proportional hazards model and Kaplan‐Meier curve. We found that GRS was significantly associated with AD risk and the association was stronger among APOE ε4 carriers. Compared to ε4 non‐carriers, the Odds Ratio (OR) for AD was 8.09 (95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 4.98‐13.63) for ε4 carriers with high‐GRS (≥1.5). In contrast, the OR was 2.55 (95% CI: 1.46‐4.49) for ε4 carriers with low‐GRS (<0.6). In conclusion, these results suggest SNP‐based GRS may supplement APOE for better assessment of inherited risk and age of onset of AD.
The PPARα agonist fenofibrate attenuates disruption of dopamine function in a maternal immune activation rat model of schizophrenia
Authors: De Felice Marta , Melis Miriam , Aroni Sonia , Muntoni Anna Lisa , Fanni Silvia , Frau Roberto , Devoto Paola , Pistis Marco
Published: November 2018

Aims

Prenatal maternal immune activation (MIA) is associated with a risk to develop schizophrenia and affects dopamine systems in the ventral tegmental area (VTA), key region in the neurobiology of psychoses. Considering the well‐described sex differences in schizophrenia, we investigated whether sex affects MIA impact on dopamine system and on schizophrenia‐related behavioral phenotype. Furthermore, considering peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐α (PPARα) expression in the CNS as well as its anti‐inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, we tested if PPARα activation by prenatal treatment with a clinically available fibrate (fenofibrate) may mitigate MIA‐related effects.

Methods

We induced MIA in rat dams with polyriboinosinic‐polyribocytidylic acid (Poly I:C) and assessed prepulse inhibition and dopamine neuron activity in the VTA by means of electrophysiological recordings in male and female preweaned and adult offspring.

Results

Poly I:C‐treated males displayed prepulse inhibition deficits, reduced number and firing rate of VTA dopamine neurons, and paired‐pulse facilitation of inhibitory and excitatory synapses. Prenatal fenofibrate administration attenuated detrimental effects induced by MIA on both the schizophrenia‐like behavioral phenotype and dopamine transmission in male offspring.

Conclusion

Our study confirms previous evidence that females are less susceptible to MIA and highlights PPARα as a potential target for treatments in schizophrenia.
Facilitation promotes invasions in plant‐associated microbial communities
Authors: Li Mei , Wei Zhong , Wang Jianing , Jousset Alexandre , Friman Ville‐Petri , Xu Yangchun , Shen Qirong , Pommier Thomas
Published: November 2018

While several studies have established a positive correlation between community diversity and invasion resistance, it is less clear how species interactions within resident communities shape this process. Here, we experimentally tested how antagonistic and facilitative pairwise interactions within resident model microbial communities predict invasion by the plant–pathogenic bacterium Ralstonia solanacearum. We found that facilitative resident community interactions promoted and antagonistic interactions suppressed invasions both in the lab and in the tomato plant rhizosphere. Crucially, pairwise interactions reliably explained observed invasion outcomes also in multispecies communities, and mechanistically, this was linked to direct inhibition of the invader by antagonistic communities (antibiosis), and to a lesser degree by resource competition between members of the resident community and the invader. Together, our findings suggest that the type and strength of pairwise interactions can reliably predict the outcome of invasions in more complex multispecies communities.
Multiple oral ulcers caused by incorrect use of oral bisphosphonate in a patient with dementia: A case report
Authors: Eguchi Takanori , Basugi Akihiko , Kanai Ikuyo , Miyata Yukinaga , Hamada Yoshiki
Published: November 2018

It is not widely known that incorrect use of oral bisphosphonates (BPs), such as chewing the medication, can cause oral ulcers. An 83‐year‐old woman with dementia was referred to our clinic with multiple oral ulcers. Blood and histopathological examinations were inconclusive. Further questioning revealed that the patient chewed the oral BP, resulting in oral ulceration. Patients with loss of cognitive function, such as dementia, are at risk of oral ulcers caused by incorrect use of BPs.
Hidden sea dragons—discovering new species of Jurassic ichthyosaurs in museum collections
Authors: Lomax Dean R.
Published: November 2018

Ichthyosaurs were a highly successful group of marine reptiles that first appeared in the Early Triassic, around 248 million years ago, and became extinct about 90 million years ago, in the Late Cretaceous. They are often referred to as ‘swimming dinosaurs’, but they are not dinosaurs. They were fully aquatic marine tetrapods that lived in the seas, whilst their more famous counterparts, the dinosaurs, roamed the land (Fig. ). They achieved a world‐wide distribution, and well over a hundred species are known, with thousands of specimens having been found. Ichthyosaurs evolved similar body plans to sharks, dolphins and whales, and are great examples of convergent evolution.
Incidence of and risk factors for development of oral mucositis in outpatients undergoing cancer chemotherapy
Authors: Çakmak Seher , Nural Nesrin
Published: November 2018

Aim

The aims of the study are to determine the incidence of oral mucositis, the stage of the condition, risk factors, and other oral complications in patients receiving outpatient chemotherapy and to evaluate the factors that have an impact on these.

Methods

The study included 147 patients undergoing outpatient cancer chemotherapy at the Chemotherapy Unit of a University Hospital between February and April 2015. We used a questionnaire and the World Health Organization “Mucositis Grading Scale”. Chi‐squared tests were used to determine the relationships between factors, and multiple logistic regression analysis was employed to explore predictive factors.

Results

The frequency of oral mucositis was 51.7%. The most common oral problems were mouth dryness (55.1%), a reduced/changed sense of taste (52.4%), and a lack of appetite (47.6%). Logistic regression analysis showed that the risk factors for oral mucositis were advanced age, a lack of appetite, and the duration of chemotherapy.

Conclusions

As a result, half of all patients undergoing outpatient cancer chemotherapy developed oral mucositis. Patients are unable to adequately prevent oral mucositis and carry out oral care. It is recommended that more studies be conducted in outpatient units to evaluate predictive factors for oral mucositis.
Small molecule nAS‐E targeting cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) and CREB‐binding protein interaction inhibits breast cancer bone metastasis
Authors: Jiang Min , Yan Yufei , Yang Kai , Liu Zhuochao , Qi Jin , Zhou Hanbing , Qian Niandong , Zhou Qi , Wang Tianqi , Xu Xing , Xiao Xiangshu , Deng Lianfu
Published: November 2018

Bone is the most common metastatic site for breast cancer. The excessive osteoclast activity in the metastatic bone lesions often produces osteolysis. The cyclic‐AMP (cAMP)‐response element binding protein (CREB) serves a variety of biological functions including the transformation and immortalization of breast cancer cells. In addition, evidence has shown that CREB plays a key role in osteoclastgenesis and bone resorption. Small organic molecules with good pharmacokinetic properties and specificity, targeting CREB‐CBP (CREB‐binding protein) interaction to inhibit CREB‐mediated gene transcription have attracted more considerations as cancer therapeutics. We recently identified naphthol AS‐E (nAS‐E) as a cell‐permeable inhibitor of CREB‐mediated gene transcription through inhibiting CREB‐CBP interaction. In this study, we tested the effect of nAS‐E on breast cancer cell proliferation, survival, migration as well as osteoclast formation and bone resorption in vitro for the first time. Our results demonstrated that nAS‐E inhibited breast cancer cell proliferation, migration, survival and suppressed osteoclast differentiation as well as bone resorption through inhibiting CREB‐CBP interaction. In addition, the in vivo effect of nAS‐E in protecting against breast cancer‐induced osteolysis was evaluated. Our results indicated that nAS‐E could reverse bone loss induced by MDA‐MB‐231 tumour. These results suggest that small molecules targeting CREB‐CBP interaction to inhibit CREB‐mediated gene transcription might be a potential approach for the treatment of breast cancer bone metastasis.