bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Error processing in the adolescent brain: Age-related differences in electrophysiology, behavioral adaptation, and brain morphology
Authors: Overbye Knut , Walhovd Kristine B. , Paus Tomáš , Fjell Anders M. , Huster Rene J. , Tamnes Christian K.
Published: December 2018

Detecting errors and adjusting behaviour appropriately are fundamental cognitive abilities that are known to improve through adolescence. The cognitive and neural processes underlying this development, however, are still poorly understood. To address this knowledge gap, we performed a thorough investigation of error processing in a Flanker task in a cross-sectional sample of participants 8 to 19 years of age (n = 98). We examined age-related differences in event-related potentials known to be associated with error processing, namely the error-related negativity (ERN) and the error positivity (Pe), as well as their relationships with task performance, post-error adjustments and regional cingulate cortex thickness and surface area. We found that ERN amplitude increased with age, while Pe amplitude remained constant. A more negative ERN was associated with higher task accuracy and faster reaction times, while a more positive Pe was associated with higher accuracy, independently of age. When estimating post-error adjustments from trials following both incongruent and congruent trials, post-error slowing and post-error improvement in accuracy both increased with age, but this was only found for post-error slowing when analysing trials following incongruent trials. There were no age-independent associations between either ERN or Pe amplitude and cingulate cortex thickness or area measures.
Minerva: an alignment- and reference-free approach to deconvolve Linked-Reads for metagenomics
Authors: Danko David C. , Meleshko Dmitry , Bezdan Daniela , Mason Christopher , Hajirasouliha Iman
Published: December 2018

Emerging Linked-Read technologies (aka read cloud or barcoded short-reads) have revived interest in short-read technology as a viable approach to understand large-scale structures in genomes and metagenomes. Linked-Read technologies, such as the 10x Chromium system, use a microfluidic system and a specialized set of 3′ barcodes (aka UIDs) to tag short DNA reads sourced from the same long fragment of DNA; subsequently, the tagged reads are sequenced on standard short-read platforms. This approach results in interesting compromises. Each long fragment of DNA is only sparsely covered by reads, no information about the ordering of reads from the same fragment is preserved, and 3′ barcodes match reads from roughly 2–20 long fragments of DNA. However, compared to long-read technologies, the cost per base to sequence is far lower, far less input DNA is required, and the per base error rate is that of Illumina short-reads. In this paper, we formally describe a particular algorithmic issue common to Linked-Read technology: the deconvolution of reads with a single 3′ barcode into clusters that represent single long fragments of DNA. We introduce Minerva, a graph-based algorithm that approximately solves the barcode deconvolution problem for metagenomic data (where reference genomes may be incomplete or unavailable). Additionally, we develop two demonstrations where the deconvolution of barcoded reads improves downstream results, improving the specificity of taxonomic assignments and of k-mer-based clustering. To the best of our knowledge, we are the first to address the problem of barcode deconvolution in metagenomics.
Differences in accounting students’ perceptions of their development of professional skills
Authors: Kirstein Marina , Coetzee Stephen , Schmulian Astrid
Published: December 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore differences in South African accounting students’ perceptions of professional skills developed in an undergraduate accounting program. South Africa has a history of socio-economic inequality and racial injustice, leading to factors outside the classroom impacting educational outcomes. In particular, South African classes are heterogeneous, reflecting a diversity of race and language groups and students from differing schooling backgrounds. These differences necessitate differentiated instruction.

Design/methodology/approach

To explore for differences in perceptions, data were collected via questionnaires and differences between demographic variables such as school, race and language were considered, while controlling for gender. A focus group was also hosted to further explore findings.

Findings

Students from better quality schools agreed less strongly than those from poorer quality schools that the education program developed their professional skills. Students from better quality schools may have developed some of the professional skills during their schooling, requiring less to be developed at university. African students, though, agreed less strongly than white students from similar quality schools that they had developed professional skills. A focus group suggested that African students place less emphasis on professional skills development than on technical skills, given their lack of exposure to professional skills through mentors (parents, teachers, etc.) who never developed professional skills during their own compromised education under Apartheid.

Originality/value

Understanding the differences in the perceptions of professional skill development in a heterogeneous classroom can assist instructors in adopting differentiated instruction approaches to enable all students to develop professional skills. It could also assist future employers of these graduates to differentiate their development strategies during workplace training.
Tribotest of engine piston ring/cylinder liner pairs with different nanoparticles added into engine oil
Authors: Demirtas Selman , Kaleli Hakan , Khadem Mahdi , Kim Dae-eun
Published: December 2018

Purpose

Wear on internal combustion engines is a loss of material that occurs with the rubbing of the materials in contact with each other and significantly reduces the economic life of the engine. Even the smallest precaution that can be taken to prevent friction and wear in the engines can provide economical savings in very large quantities. Internal combustion engines are widely utilized in modem automobiles. Around 10 per cent of the total fuel energy is dissipated to heat due to mechanical friction, among which 20 per cent is caused by the contact between the cylinder liner and the piston rings.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, real piston ring-cylinder specimens were tested with reciprocating tribometer by using five different nanoparticles added to engine oil to investigate their wear and friction behavior.

Findings

With regard to the experiments, it has been found that the best results were determined by TiO2 and single-walled carbon nanotubes according to boron nitride, multi-walled carbon nanotubes and graphene nanoparticles added to the engine oil, respectively. At the end of the tests, different wear mechanisms have been determined after the surface analyses on the piston ring and cylinder liner surface, and abrasive wear has been observed as the main wear mechanism.

Originality/value

This paper has an originality with regard to adding different nanoparticles into the commercial engine oil.
Effect of elimination of diseases on expectation of life in Bangladesh
Authors: Rosy Sarkar Aziza Sultana , Islam Md Nurul
Published: December 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the trend of life expectancy in Bangladesh and find the effect of eliminating the causes of diseases on life expectancy statistics.

Design/methodology/approach

Data consisted of 1,530 deaths in 2000, 1,582 deaths in 2004 and 1,514 deaths in 2008 that were collected from the Health and Demographic Surveillance System of International Centre for Diarrheal Disease Research, Bangladesh. Trends in life expectancy after eliminating the cause of diseases were examined by a Single Decrement Life table.

Findings

The expectation of life for both male and female presented differing patterns. Results showed that life expectancies were greatly reduced in the presence of all groups of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the community, whilst life expectancies were significantly improved if all NCDs within all disease groups were completely eliminated. The life expectancies in the presence of NCDs showed lowest expected years among all the present diseases groups and the life expectancies eliminating NCDs showed highest expected years among all the eliminating diseases groups. The results indicated that 10.99 years of life would be added to life expectancy at birth for the male population and 8.82 years for the female population in 2008 if NCDs were eliminated.

Originality/value

The findings of this study provide useful information which could contribute to a more effective allocation of targeted funding for developing public health programs. Lowering mortality by eliminating major groups of diseases results in higher life expectancy ratings. Specifically, the relative impacts of eliminating cardiovascular diseases and respiratory diseases, as compared with eliminating neoplasms.
Investigating professional quality of life in nursing staff working in Adolescent Psychiatric Intensive Care Units (PICUs)
Authors: Foster Celeste
Published: December 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate professional quality of life of mental health nursing staff working within an adolescent psychiatric intensive care unit (PICU) setting. Professional quality of life is important, as there is a correlation between staff wellbeing and the quality of healthcare services delivered, particularly within mental health settings. Mental health nursing staff in adolescent PICU services deal with a wide range of physically and emotionally demanding challenges when providing care, yet the potential impact of this demanding work upon staff in this context has not been explored.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a longitudinal non-experimental design with a purposive sample. Quantitative data were collected from a total of 17 registered mental health nurses and healthcare assistants (HCAs) working in an adolescent PICU in the North of England. Repeated measures were administered at three consecutive intervals, three months apart, using a validated self-report measure, the Professional Quality of Life Scale V (ProQOL V, Stamm, 2010). Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistical analysis using benchmark data from the ProQOL V instrument for comparison.

Findings

Analysis of results compared to ProQOL V benchmark data showed significantly higher than expected levels of compassion satisfaction, and lower than expected levels of burnout and secondary traumatic stress for adolescent PICU nursing staff within the study. There were no significant differences between qualified nurses and HCAs. Potential explanations and practice implications of these findings are discussed.

Originality/value

This is the first published study to investigate professional quality of life within the mental health nursing population working in adolescent PICU, providing empirical insights into a previously unexplored mental health context.
The impact of subordinate disrespect on leader justice
Authors: Holmvall Camilla M. , Stevens Sonya , Chestnut Natasha
Published: December 2018

Purpose

Employees are affected by the interpersonal treatment received from leaders (i.e. interactional justice), especially when being informed of negative outcomes (Brockner, 2010). Although respectful treatment may be expected from leaders generally, little is known about when leaders are more likely to display interactional justice and whether less interactional justice might be acceptable under certain circumstances. Drawing on reciprocity theory (e.g. Gouldner, 1960), and leader–member exchange (LMX) theory (e.g. Gerstner and Day, 1997), the purpose of this paper is to test the hypothesis that employees who are disrespectful and inconsiderate toward their supervisors (i.e. who are themselves interactionally unjust) would and should receive less interactional justice when being informed of a negative outcome.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted three experimental studies (Ns=87, 47 and 114), in the context of leaders communicating a layoff decision to their subordinates.

Findings

The results supported the predictions albeit the effect of subordinate interactional justice on supervisor justice was modest, yet consistent, across studies.

Research limitations/implications

The findings are consistent with reciprocity theory and the LMX literature and suggest that leader actions when communicating bad news are dependent on employee conduct. Limitations of the studies include a primary reliance on students as participants and the measurement of behavioral intentions rather than behavior.

Originality/value

The studies are among the first to examine interactional injustice perpetrated by subordinates toward their leaders, and its impact on leader behavior when delivering negative outcomes. There is a paucity of literature understanding the causes of leader fairness behavior, in addition to a consideration of unfairness from perpetrators of lower positional power.
Combined effect of GABA and glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist on cytokine‐induced apoptosis in pancreatic β‐cell line and isolated human islets
Authors: Son Dong Ok , Liu Wenjuan , Li Xiaoming , Prud'homme Gerald J. , Wang Qinghua
Published: December 2018

Background

Treatment with GABA or glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) can preserve pancreatic β‐cell mass and prevent diabetes. Recently, we reported that the combination of GABA and sitagliptin (a dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor that increases endogenous GLP‐1) was more effective than either agent alone in reducing drug‐induced β‐cell damage and promoting β‐cell regeneration in mice. However, in human islets, it remains unclear whether GABA and GLP‐1 exert similar effects.

Methods

To investigate GABA and GLP‐1 interactions, human islets or INS‐1 cells were treated with GABA and/or exendin‐4, a GLP‐1 receptor agonist (GLP‐1RA) in clinical use, and incubated with a cytokine mixture for 24 hours. Cleaved caspase‐3 and annexin V binding were measured by western blot and flow cytometry analysis, respectively, to investigate effects on cytokine‐induced apoptosis.

Results

Cytokine‐induced apoptosis was reduced by either GABA or exendin‐4 alone. This was markedly improved by combining GABA and exendin‐4, resulting in a reversal of apoptosis. The combination notably increased Akt pathway signaling. Furthermore, sirtuin‐1 (SIRT1) and α‐Klotho, both reported to have protective effects on β‐cells, were increased. Importantly, the combination ameliorated insulin secretion by human β‐cells.

Conclusions

The combination of GABA and a GLP‐1RA exerted additive effects on β‐cell survival and function, suggesting that this combination may be superior to either drug alone in the treatment of diabetes.
Adductor canal block with a suture‐method catheter – A parallel or perpendicular approach?
Authors: Lyngeraa Tobias S. , Rothe Christian , Grevstad Ulrik , Lundstrøm Lars H. , Lange Kai H. W.
Published: December 2018

Background

We performed a randomised blinded pilot study in 16 healthy volunteers to assess whether placing a suture‐method catheter in the adductor canal is feasible with two different insertion techniques.

Methods

Each volunteer had a suture‐method catheter placed approximately halfway between the superior anterior iliac spine and base of the patella in both legs. Catheters were placed using a parallel technique in one leg and a perpendicular technique in the other leg, according to randomisation. 15 mL lidocaine 1% was injected in each catheter. Successful placement was defined as loss of cold sensation in the saphenous area 30 min after injection. Volunteers were sent home and returned the following day and another dose of lidocaine (15 mL, 1%) was injected through the catheters. Catheter displacement distance was assessed by ultrasound and cold sensation was assessed. In case of preserved cold sensation, we attempted to reposition the catheter with a subsequent injection of lidocaine and reassessment of cold sensation.

Results

All primary placements were successful using the perpendicular approach (100%; 95% CI 81%‐100%) whereas one placement failed using the parallel approach (94%; 95% CI 72%‐99%). Three catheters placed using the perpendicular approach were displaced on day 2, compared to one catheter placed with the parallel approach. Displacement distance was highly variable. All catheters, except one, could be repositioned. Three volunteers reported transient sensory deficits lasting approximately 6‐8 weeks.

Conclusion

The suture‐method catheter can be placed in the adductor canal with high success rates for initial placement with both techniques.
Doubling rituximab in high‐risk patients with aggressive B‐cell lymphoma ‐results of the DENSE‐R‐MegaCHOEP trial
Authors: Friedrichs Birte , Nickelsen Maike , Ziepert Marita , Altmann Bettina , Haenel Mathias , Viardot Andreas , Schmidt Christian , Ruebe Christian , Loeffler Markus , Pfreundschuh Michael , Rosenwald Andreas , Glass Bertram , Lenz Georg , Schmitz Norbert ,   for the German high‐grade lymphoma Study Group
Published: December 2018

To further improve outcome in young high‐risk patients with diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) the number of rituximab (R) infusions was doubled in combination with standard CHOEP (cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, etoposide, vincristine, prednisone) chemotherapy. Seventy‐seven patients (aged 18–60 years) with an age‐adjusted International Prognostic Index of 2–3 received 12 × R (375 mg/m2) on days 0, 1, 4, 8, 15, 22, 29, 43, 57, 71, 85 and 99 together with eight cycles of CHOEP‐14. Results were retrospectively compared to those of patients receiving 6 × R and 8 × CHOEP‐14 in the standard arm of the randomized R‐MegaCHOEP trial.

Two‐year overall survival (OS) was 82% [95% confidence interval (CI) 73%–92%]; 2‐year event‐free (EFS) and progression‐free survival (PFS) was 69% (95% CI 59–80%) and 76% (95% CI 66%‐–6%), respectively. Comparing 12 to six doses of R revealed no differences (univariate/multivariate) in EFS (at 2 years: 69% vs. 71%), PFS (76% vs. 75%) and OS (82% vs. 85%), with P = 0·766, P = 0·871 and P = 0·843, respectively. Doubling the number of R infusions concomitant to CHOEP did not improve treatment outcomes. Nonetheless, OS and PFS of young high‐risk patients who received only six infusions of R combined with CHOEP remain excellent and were confirmed in an independent cohort of patients.
Creative surrender: How we grow at the end of life
Authors: Rake‐Marona Jennifer
Published: December 2018

Through patients’ stories and reflection on the literature, the author explores the potential for spiritual, emotional, and relational growth in the dying. Five “faces” of growth are described: Holy Sadness, Meaning‐Making, Generosity of Spirit and Transcendence, Legacy and Eternal Life, and Letting Go. Readers are invited to consider the creative potential at the end of life and to be aware that they too may grow as they journey alongside others who are approaching death.
Constructing a global theology: An assessment of the Christian dogmatics of Veli‐Matti Kärkkäinen
Authors: Urvas Sanna , Vainio Olli‐Pekka
Published: December 2018

This article examines the recent multivolume Christian Dogmatics, by Veli‐Matti Kärkkäinen. The authors offer an overview to the postfoundationalist methodology of the work and assess how Kärkkäinen succeeds in his dialogue with the sciences and other religious traditions.
Left ventricular mass regression after aortic valve replacement: Sex differences or effect of different methods of indexation?
Authors: Del Bene Maria Riccarda , Barletta Giuseppe , Venditti Francesco , Di Mario Carlo , Blanzola Claudio , Stefàno Pierluigi
Published: December 2018

Background

The influence of sex on regression of left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy (LVH) after aortic valve replacement (AVR) for aortic stenosis (AS) remains elusive. The lack of consensus on how to correct LV mass (LVM) for body size, and different normalcy values, contribute to inconclusive results.

Methods

In 164 consecutive patients (mean age 80 ± 4 years, 59% females) with AS, we analyzed LVM (Devereux formula) before and 1 year after AVR (St.Jude Trifecta bio‐prosthesis). LVM was indexed to BSA (Du Bois and Gehan formulas), to height1.7 and height2.7. Limits of normalcy were (women and men, respectively): <95 and <115 g/m², BSA‐indexed LVM; <60 and <81 g/m, LVM/height1.7; <44 and <48 g/m, LVM/height2.7.

Results

Women had smaller BSA, but not body mass index, than men. AS severity and incidence of hypertension did not differ. LVM indexed to height2.7 was greater in women. LVH incidence was similar in males and females. Independently of the indexation method, LVH reduced significantly (P < 0.0001). LVM reduction was greater in women (P < 0.05 for all methods). At follow‐up, nearly half the patients, irrespective of sex, showed residual LVH, and diastolic dysfunction.

Conclusions

We tested different methods of LVM indexation in AS patients. LVM was similar between men and women. Indexation to height2.7 gives higher LVM in women because of their shorter stature. LVH prevalence is independent of sex. Irrespective of the indexation method, LVM reduction is greater in females, whereas LVM normalization occurs in equal proportion. Persistent LVH and diastolic dysfunction suggest earlier AVR in elderly.
Measuring Widening Proficiency Differences in International Assessments: Are Current Approaches Enough?
Authors: Rutkowski David , Rutkowski Leslie , Liaw Yuan‐Ling
Published: December 2018

Participation in international large‐scale assessments has grown over time with the largest, the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), including more than 70 education systems that are economically and educationally diverse. To help accommodate for large achievement differences among participants, in 2009 PISA offered low‐performing systems the option of including an easier set of items in the assessment with an aim of providing improved achievement estimates. However, there remains a lack of evidence on the performance of this design innovation. As such, we simulate a design that closely mirrors the PISA 2015 math assessment in order to empirically examine the benefits of including easy items for low‐performing countries. We extend the PISA design to include increased numbers of easy items and items that are easier than currently implemented. Findings show that the current PISA approach provides little advantage compared to a common test for all participants. Our study also demonstrates persistent bias, low coverage rates, and low correlations between generating and estimated proficiency under current designs. Through our simulation we also show that to improve achievement estimation for low performers about half of the items would need to be made significantly easier.
EU citizenship and (fundamental) rights: Empirical, normative, and conceptual problems
Authors: van den Brink Martijn
Published: December 2018

There is a close connection between EU citizenship and rights, both in the law and literature. This article claims that EU lawyers' understanding of EU citizenship and rights suffers from empirical, normative, and conceptual shortcomings. I will point out that there has been insufficient awareness for the boundedness of EU citizenship, the political structure of the EU and the constraints this (realistically) imposes on the ‘meaningfulness’ of EU citizenship. EU citizenship must not be understood as requiring an elaborate set of equal rights for all Union citizens throuzghout the EU, but valued for its ability to allow its status holders to enjoy (almost) full membership in the Member States of which they do not possess nationality.
Transforming Disciples, Transforming the Future
Authors: Mulenga‐Kaunda Mutale
Published: December 2018

This article postulates that Transforming Discipleship is vital in the lives of Christians. This article demonstrates how transformative discipleship does not happen in a vacuum but in the lived reality and experiences of women and men. Using African feminist missiology, this article further explicates how lived realities in an African context need more than just the spiritual for adequate transformation to take place.
Teaching Trauma and Theology Inspires Lives of Witnessing Discipleship
Authors: Lakawa Septemmy E.
Published: December 2018

This article argues that teaching theology and trauma signifies the role of theological education as a conducive site for the missional formation of witnessing discipleship. Witnessing discipleship is a risky practice of bearing witness to life and healing in the midst of violence and its traumatic traces. As a central dimension of academic formation, teaching plays a significant role in empowering and inspiring students toward lives of witnessing discipleship.

The article draws the key concept of witnessing discipleship from the ancient Christian tradition of martyrdom into conversation with a trauma perspective on witnessing by embedding the concept in the complex history of communal religious violence and political violence in Indonesia. The aim is to provide a picture of the complex interconnection between theological education (academia) and the public sphere – which is shaped by collective trauma – in which the missional formation is taking place. The article uses Jakarta Theological Seminary, the oldest Protestant/ecumenical seminary in Indonesia, as a case study for a contextual model of the teaching of theology and trauma that equips students for practising witnessing discipleship.

Shelly Rambo, whose work on theology and trauma is shaping a theological shift in response to trauma, is the main interlocutor. This article affirms that trauma ruptures theology. It focuses on two intertwined dimensions of the rupturing – the Christian discourse on suffering and witnessing – by employing the image of a posture that embodies the unspeakability of trauma and the promise of healing. It articulates a theological response to the ways in which trauma and healing contain each other and shape the public sphere. This article offers three intertwined layers – the multidirectional classroom, the hermeneutic of rupture, and the aesthetics of healing.
The Spiritual Dimension of Embracing the Cross
Authors: Vellem Vuyani S.
Published: December 2018

This article explores Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s dictum “Pray and Struggle for Justice” through the prism of ekassie, inspiring the view that the cross is not a sanitized symbol of resignation from the concrete. Prayer as a resource, and thus spirituality, in a world of racially alienated residents and inhabitants of the earth and spiritual impoverishment is subversive. The article argues that in the cohabitation of ideology and faith, when the aspirational dimension of ideology (ipso facto, cognitive rationality) shifts from doubt to certainty and from fear (the oppressor inside), a new spirituality embedded in the turbulent passages of the wretched, the black, inspires the verbs to return to the cross – the spiritual dimension of embracing the cross.
Flavanols protect the yeastSaccharomyces cerevisiaeagainst heating and freezing/thawing injury
Authors: Naparlo K. , Zyracka E. , Bartosz G. , Sadowska-Bartosz I.
Published: December 2018

Aims

The aim of the study was to check whether two flavanols ((−)-epigallocatechin gallate and (+)-catechin) can ameliorate oxidative stress (OS) accompanying and contributing to the lethal effects of heating (50°C) and freezing-thawing on the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

Methods and Results

The flavanols studied increased yeast survival during heating and freezing-thawing, estimated by the colony forming assay. They improved also such indices of OS as increased production of reactive oxygen species, decrease of total antioxidant activity of yeast cell extracts and increase in the level of protein carbonyls.

Conclusions

Amelioration of OS by flavanols increases the survival of the yeast subjected to high temperature and freezing-thawing.

Significance and Impact of the Study

Flavanols may be considered as means of enhancing yeast survival under extreme temperature conditions and probably in other conditions involving OS.
Methotrexate in atopic eczema – Reply to a letter
Authors: Wollenberg A. , Deleuran M. , Ring J.
Published: December 2018

Linked article: This article is commented on by C. Goujon et al., pp. e154–e155 in this issue. To view this article visit https://doi.org/10.1111/jdv.15386.
Dermoscopy of cutaneous smooth muscle neoplasms: a morphological study of 136 cases
Authors: Zaballos P. , del Pozo L.J. , Argenziano G. , Medina C. , Lacarrubba F. , Ferrer B. , Martin J.M. , Llambrich A. , Zalaudek I. , Bañuls J.
Published: December 2018

Background

A variety of cutaneous smooth muscle neoplasms may arise in the skin and are frequently unrecognized by clinicians. There is sparse data relating to the dermoscopy of piloleiomyomas (PL), and nothing has been published about the dermoscopy of angioleiomyomas (AL) and leiomyosarcomas (LS).

Objectives

To evaluate the morphological findings of a large series of cutaneous PL, AL and LS under dermoscopic observation, comparing these findings among them.

Methods

Digital dermoscopic images of 136 histopathologically confirmed cases of cutaneous smooth muscle neoplasms (114 PL, 13 AL and 9 LS) collected from 10 Hospitals in Spain, Austria and Italy were evaluated for the presence of dermoscopic structures and patterns.

Results

The pattern composed of a symmetric, total delicate pigment network with the variable presence of multiple hypopigmented areas in a painful lesion is the most common dermoscopic pattern associated with PL. This pattern was found in 69.3% of PL and in no cases of AL and LS. The most common and characteristic pattern associated with AL was the one composed of symmetric pink‐reddish tumour with vessels, white structures and the absence of ulceration, which was found in 46.2% of AL, but also in 3.5% of PL, and in 22.2% of LS. Finally, the most common pattern associated with LS was the one composed of an asymmetric, multilobulated tumour with linear‐irregular or polymorphic‐atypical vessels and white structures, which was found in 44.4% of cases, but also in 0.9% of PL and in 15.4% of AL.

Conclusion

Dermoscopy is helpful in improving the diagnostic accuracy of PL. The dermoscopic patterns associated with AL and LS were more variable and less specific.
Itch relief in patients with psoriasis: effectiveness of calcipotriol plus betamethasone dipropionate foam
Authors: Jalili A. , Lebwohl M. , Stein Gold L. , Andersen S.B. , Jensen K.L. , Pink A.E. , Segaert S. , Berg P. , Calzavara‐Pinton P.G. , de la Cueva Dobao P. , Thaçi D.
Published: December 2018

Background

Itch is common in psoriasis, adversely affecting health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) and sleep.

Objective

We evaluated the efficacy of topical fixed‐dose combination calcipotriol 50 μg/g plus betamethasone dipropionate 0.5 mg/g cutaneous foam (Cal/BD foam) on itch, itch‐related sleep loss and HRQoL vs. foam vehicle.

Methods

We pooled data from three Phase II/III trials (NCT01536886/NCT01866163/NCT02132936) of Cal/BD foam vs. foam vehicle in adults with mild–severe psoriasis. For itch‐related analyses, patients with baseline itch visual analogue scale (VAS) >40 (range 0–100) were analysed. Outcomes included the following: itch VAS reduction >40, ≥70% improvement in itch (Itch70) or itch‐related sleep loss, 75% improvement in modified Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (excluding head; mPASI75) and Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) scores 0/1 through 4 weeks.

Results

Of 837 patients, 800 had baseline itch VAS >0 (Cal/BD foam, n = 610; foam vehicle, n = 190); 484 had baseline itch VAS >40. There was no correlation between itch VAS score and mPASI at baseline (R2 = 0.021). In patients with baseline itch VAS >40, more patients achieved itch VAS reduction >40 in the active vs. vehicle group from Day 5 onwards (Day 5: 57.5% vs. 40.2% [P < 0.05]; Week 4: 83.0% vs. 45.8% [P < 0.001]). More Cal/BD‐foam‐treated patients achieved Itch70 at Day 3 (34.2% vs. 22.5%; P < 0.05) through to Week 4 (79.3% vs. 38.1%; P < 0.001). In patients with baseline itch VAS >40 and sleep loss >20, improvements in itch‐related sleep loss occurred at Week 1 and continued through 4 weeks. Itch‐related improvements occurred before improvements in mPASI75. There were significant differences in the proportion of Cal/BD‐foam‐ vs. foam‐vehicle‐treated patients with baseline DLQI >10 (n = 172 vs. n = 50) achieving DLQI ≤1 (25.0% vs. 4.0%; P = 0.001) and DLQI 0 (17.4% vs. 2.0%; P = 0.006) at Week 4.

Conclusion

Compared with foam vehicle, Cal/BD foam offers more rapid and effective itch relief, with associated significant improvements in sleep and DLQI.
Reproducibility of the PIROP ultrasonic biometer for gingival thickness measurements
Authors: Gánti Bernadett , Bednarz Wojciech , Kőműves Karolina , Vág János
Published: December 2018

Objectives

Gingival thickness (GT) has a great importance in periodontal flap design, gingival recession, and soft tissue esthetic. The aim of this study was to determine the reproducibility of PIROP ultrasonic biometer, which is specially designed for human GT measurements and to compare with the invasive transgingival probing technique.

Materials and Methods

GT was measured in 25 periodontally healthy volunteers both by PIROP and an endodontic spreader on the attached gingiva. Reproducibility was assessed by calculating standrad deviaton (SD) in five repeated measurements and Pearson correlation coefficient (r). Agreement between the two methods was evaluated based on Bland‐Altman limits of agreement (LoA).

Results

No systemic bias in GT was observed between the two methods. The repeatability of the PIROP was better than the spreader method (SD = 0.14 mm vs 0.20 mm, P < 0.001). With five repetitions, the measurement error of the PIROP was halved. The correlation among the repeated observations were strong (r = 0.86) for the ultrasonic, weak (r = 0.34) for the invasive method. The LoA between the two methods was −0.58 to +0.75 mm.

Conclusion

PIROP is a reliable device for GT measurements, but it is recommended to repeat the measurement a few times to improve the precision in individual case.

Clinical Significance

PIROP ultrasonic biometer could be used in routine practice to reliably measure the GT in noninvasive way. After short learning curve the measurement can be done quickly and conveniently.
Is Sexting Associated with Sexual Behaviors During Adolescence? A Systematic Literature Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Handschuh Caroline , La Cross Allison , Smaldone Arlene
Published: December 2018

Introduction

A growing body of research has addressed adolescent use of mobile devices to exchange sexually explicit images and messages (sexting). Although there are legal consequences in some states for sexting among adolescents, research findings have also demonstrated associations between sexting and sexual activity. The purpose of this systematic review was to synthesize research examining the association between adolescent sexting and sexual activity.

Methods

Five databases (CINAHL, Embase, Ovid MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Scopus) were searched for studies measuring adolescent sexting and sexual behaviors. Studies were appraised for quality using a modified Downs and Black scale. Studies reporting frequencies or odds ratios were eligible for inclusion in random effects meta‐analytic models.

Results

Of 669 articles retrieved, 9 studies met inclusion criteria for systematic review; of these, 6 were included in meta‐analysis. After pooling data from 9676 adolescents, the odds of reporting sexual activity were found to be 6.3 times higher (95% CI, 4.9‐8.1; Q = 14.3; I2 = 65.1) for adolescents who sent sexts compared with those who did not.

Discussion

These data suggest that adolescents who send sexually explicit text messages are more likely to report sexual activity than adolescents who do not. Midwives are well poised to integrate a discussion of sexting into sexual and reproductive health counseling with adolescent and young adult patients.
Dermoscopic follow‐up of therapeutic response in mantle cell lymphoma with secondary involvement of the scalp
Authors: Swoboda Ryszard , Kaminska‐Winciorek Grazyna , Jaworska Magdalena , Giebel Sebastian
Published: December 2018

The scalp is a potential location for both benign and malignant tumors. Lymphoproliferative diseases can involve the skin as a primary or secondary manifestation. Dermoscopy is a noninvasive diagnostic tool for rapid diagnosis, screening, and follow‐up of the majority of skin tumors. Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), a rare type of aggressive systemic lymphoma, usually occurs as a generalized lymphadenopathy, commonly with infiltration of the bone marrow, spleen, gastrointestinal tract, and Waldeyer's ring. In rare cases, it can also involve other structures, such as the lungs, central nervous system, liver, or skin. We report the case of a 74‐year‐old male patient suffering from MCL since 2015. Complete remission was obtained after R‐CHOP (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone) treatment. During maintenance therapy with rituximab, a solitary tumor occurred on the scalp. Dermoscopy of the lesion suggested relapse because of the presence of multiple chaotically distributed short linear vessels with multiple red dots within the hair follicles. Histological examination confirmed the diagnosis of MCL. After second‐line therapy with rituximab and bendamustine (R‐B), the tumor of the scalp completely disappeared and dermoscopy showed no abnormalities.
Ischemic optic neuropathy in robotic‐assisted gynaecologic surgery: A case report
Authors: Ozcan Altan A. , Ulas Burak
Published: December 2018

The study was aimed to present a rare case of who developed non arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) following robotic‐assisted gynaecologic surgery. A 58‐year‐old female patient presented with vision loss in right eye after non‐complicated robotic‐assisted total hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo‐oopherectomy. We observed on fundoscopy optic disc edema and splinter hemorrhages at the optic disc edges. Fluorescein angiography showed hypofluorescence of the optic disc in the early phases due to filling delay followed by hyperfluorescence with leakage from disc capillaries in the late phases of the angiogram. From these findings, we diagnosed NAION in the right eye. When NAION was diagnosed, the patient received intravenous methylprednisolone. Topical brimonidin and coenzyme‐Q were given. On 1‐month follow‐up, recovery of visual loss was observed. Here, we present a case of NAION that is an uncommon cause of perioperative visual loss after robotic‐assisted gyneacologic surgery.
A novel model for predicting non‐responsiveness to intravenous immunoglobulins in Kawasaki disease: The Singapore experience
Authors: Grignani Robert , Rajgor Dimple D , Leow Yao‐Guang , Heng Chew‐Kiat , Quek Swee‐Chye
Published: December 2018

Aim

We aimed to assess the utility of four published risk‐scoring methods in predicting intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG) non‐responsiveness in Kawasaki disease (KD) patients from Singapore and develop a new predictive model.

Methods

We reviewed the medical records of 215 KD children. The performance of existing scoring methods in identifying non‐responsive cases based on sensitivities (SN) and specificities (SP) was evaluated in 122 Singaporean Chinese. From our dataset, a model involving six predictors was built.

Results

The following respective SN (%) and SP (%) were obtained: Egami: 26%, 68%; Kobayashi: 21%, 62%; Sano: 13%, 86% and Fukunishi: 46%, 71%. These results indicated that the existing scoring methods performed poorly compared to those reported in their respective original publications, which ranged between 68 and 87%. The new predictive model was derived with an improved SN (80%) and SP (80%).

Conclusions

Currently available risk‐scoring methods have less applicability in the Singaporean Chinese population. The proposed new risk‐scoring predictive model derived based on data from Chinese cohort demonstrated much better SN and SP.
Targeting Dental Caries and Body Mass Index Among Special Olympics Athletes in Australia
Authors: Pradhan Archana
Published: December 2018

Dental caries and obesity‐associated chronic diseases are an additional burden to people with intellectual disabilities and one which can be reduced. To determine the association between dental caries and body mass index (BMI) among Special Olympics (SO) athletes. At the National SO Games (2014), three volunteer dentists screened consenting SO athletes (n = 116; 15–57 years old) and recorded decayed (D), missing (M), filled (F) teeth and caries experience (DMFT > 0). Volunteer‐accredited sports dietitians measured BMI as underweight (<18.5), normal (18.5–24.9), overweight (25.0–29.9), and obese (≥30) or used World Health Organization (WHO) classification of BMI‐for‐age for those under 19 years of age. The prevalence of decayed teeth was 16% and the mean DMFT was 4.0. About 40% of SO athletes had one or more missing and filled teeth. A third of the SO athletes had normal weight (33%), and the rest were overweight (40%) or obese (27%). Missing teeth and caries experience were significantly associated with higher BMI (χ2, p < .05). A more efficient common risk factor approach that simultaneously targets both dental caries and obesity should be adopted to improve the oral health and general health of SO athletes and the larger, more vulnerable population of people with intellectual disability.
Geographies of Confinement for Immigrant Youth: Checkpoints and Immobilities along the US/Mexico Border
Authors: Castañeda Heide , Melo Milena A.
Published: December 2018

The containment of immigrants along the US/Mexico border illuminates the complex spatial implications associated with the securitization of migration enforcement. The production of marginalized, carceral national spaces has particular consequences for the people who inhabit them, as processes of spatial illegality shape their daily lives. Our analyses draw on five years of ethnographic study in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas. Here, we focus on the experiences of sixty‐one undocumented youth, including recipients of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, to explore how the spatial violence created by checkpoints and everyday policing practices lead to experiences of confinement and accelerate processes of social exclusion. Spillover effects occur as all inhabitants must pass through inspection points and demonstrate proof of identity and legal residency; this contributes to the reformulation of citizenship. To this, our article adds insight into how social membership is experienced at the checkpoints so that “citizenship” and “authorization” become conflated. Early childhood and youth experiences of freely crossing spaces with school programs yet living with uncertain and precarious status contribute to persistent fear, instability, and confusion under a multilayered immigration policy regime.
Personality similarity and marital quality among couples in later life
Authors: Wang Shuangshuang , Kim Kyungmin , Boerner Kathrin
Published: December 2018

Using a modified actor–partner interdependence model, associations of individuals' personality traits (i.e., actor and partner effects) and personality similarity (i.e., trait‐level and profile‐level similarity between spouses) with marital quality were examined among 2,228 older couples from the Health and Retirement Study (2010/2012). Actor and partner effects of personality traits were stronger than similarities in explaining older couples' marital quality. Trait‐level and profile‐level similarities also contributed to marital quality. The effects of personality traits and personality similarity were similar for husbands and wives, although some gender differences in the partner effects were detected. Findings suggest that the effects of personality on marital quality persist into old age, indicating that being similar on personalities may be a benefit to older couples' marriages.
REGIONAL DIFFERENCES IN THE LABOR SUPPLY OF MARRIED FEMALE GRADUATES: WHY IS IT LOWER IN THE METROPOLITAN AREAS OF JAPAN?
Authors: Kato Maki
Published: December 2018

This study investigates the determinants of the lower employment rate of married female graduates in the metropolitan areas (MAs) of Japan compared to the rate in non‐MAs using Employment Status Survey data from 1992, 1997, and 2002. The results show that the type of employment available in non‐MAs is more conducive to employment tenure. During the study period, married female graduates attained longer employment in full‐time specialized and technical jobs, such as teaching, in non‐MAs. In MAs, a larger proportion of married female graduates worked in clerical jobs, sales, or in specialized and technical jobs (e.g. doctors or uncategorized jobs), which have lower job continuity than teaching jobs. This study concludes, therefore, that employment composition is at least one of the determinants of the lower employment rate of married female graduates in MAs.
Comprehensive blood group antigen profile predictions for Western Desert Indigenous Australians from whole exome sequence data
Authors: Schoeman Elizna M. , Roulis Eileen V. , Perry Maree A. , Flower Robert L. , Hyland Catherine A.
Published: December 2018

BACKGROUND

The distribution of RBC antigens, which define blood group types, differs among populations. In contrast to many world populations, blood group profiles for Indigenous Australians have not been well studied. As it is now possible to predict comprehensive blood group antigen profiles from genomic data sets, we aimed to apply this for Indigenous Australians and to provide a comparison to other major world populations.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Whole exome sequence data for 72 Western Desert Indigenous Australians was provided by the Telethon Kids Institute. Variants (against hg19) were annotated using computer software (ANNOVAR, Qiagen Bioinformatics) and filtered to include only variants in genes for 36 blood group systems, and the transcription factors KLF1 and GATA1. The RHCE*C allele and RHD zygosity were identified by copy number variant analysis of sequence alignments. The impact of missense variants was investigated in silico using a meta‐predictor of disease‐causing variants (Meta‐SNP).

RESULTS

For 21 blood group systems the predicted blood group antigen frequencies were comparable to those for other major world populations. For 13 systems, interesting points of contrast were identified. Furthermore, we identified 12 novel variants, one novel D allele, and four rare variants with potential clinical significance.

CONCLUSION

This is the first systematic assessment of genomic data to elucidate blood group antigen profiles for Indigenous Australians who are linguistically and culturally diverse. Our study paves the way to understanding the geographic distribution of blood group variants in different Indigenous groups and the associated RBC phenotypes. This in turn is expected to guide transfusion practice for Indigenous individuals.
Testing for Shift-Contagion Vulnerability Among MENA Stock Markets During the Turkish Financial Crisis
Authors: Badr Osama M , Khallouli Wajih
Published: December 2018

This paper is an empirical study that seeks to determine whether any of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) stock markets are vulnerable to financial contagion in the wake of the 2001 Turkish crisis. We test the nonlinearity of the mechanisms spreading shocks, estimated with a model of long-term interdependence. Our results provide evidence of a high level of interdependence between MENA stock markets. However, we find that, with the exception of the contamination of Israel’s stock market, there is no longer evidence of shift-contagion in the transmission of financial shocks across MENA stock markets.