bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Usability testing for an open-source integrated library system
Authors: Khatun Asma , Ahmed S.M. Zabed
Published: May 2018

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to empirically examine the usability of the Koha OPAC from a user perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

A series of usability tests with Koha were carried out at a private university in Bangladesh. Both experienced and novice users participated in these tests. Experienced users participated only once, whereas novices took part in three successive sessions. At first, novices’ initial performance was recorded. Then, they performed the same tasks after a short training tutorial. Novices again participated in the retention experiment with the same tasks after four weeks. A set of seven tasks was given to the users to see their performance in terms of time taken, number of errors made and success scores. Performance data were captured through a computer screen recording software, and satisfaction scores were obtained using a modified version of Questionnaire on User Interface Satisfaction (QUIS). Comparisons of performance and satisfaction with Koha OPAC were made between experienced users and novices’ initial, learning and retention experiments and amongst novices’ three test sessions.

Findings

The results showed significant performance difference between experienced and novices’ initial session. Novices could easily pick up the functionality of Koha OPAC when a brief training was provided. The comparative analysis of performance between experienced users and novices’ learning showed no significant difference between these sessions. There was a significant difference between experienced and novices’ retention in terms of success scores. The comparison amongst novices’ initial, learning and retention sessions showed significant performance differences in time taken and errors made. The QUIS results also showed significant differences in subjective satisfaction for several items between experienced users and naïve sessions, and for one item amongst novices’ three experiments.

Originality/value

This is a pioneering study of the task-based usability of Koha OPAC. The findings from this study will encourage researchers to empirically examine the usability of other open-source ILSs, which might result in improved user performance and satisfaction with these systems.
The uncertainty mapping of ontologies based on three-dimensional combination weight vector space model
Authors: Han Dongmei , Wang Wen , Luo Suyuan , Fan Weiguo , Wang Songxin
Published: May 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to apply vector space model (VSM)-PCR model to compute the similarity of Fault zone ontology semantics, which verified the feasibility and effectiveness of the application of VSM-PCR method in uncertainty mapping of ontologies.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors first define the concept of uncertainty ontology and then propose the method of ontology mapping. The proposed method fully considers the properties of ontology in measuring the similarity of concept. It expands the single VSM of concept meaning or instance set to the “meaning, properties, instance” three-dimensional VSM and uses membership degree or correlation to express the level of uncertainty.

Findings

It provides a relatively better accuracy which verified the feasibility and effectiveness of VSM-PCR method in treating the uncertainty mapping of ontology.

Research limitations/implications

The future work will focus on exploring the similarity measure and combinational methods in every dimension.

Originality/value

This paper presents an uncertain mapping method of ontology concept based on three-dimensional combination weighted VSM, namely, VSM-PCR. It expands the single VSM of concept meaning or instance set to the “meaning, properties, instance” three-dimensional VSM. The model uses membership degree or correlation which is used to express the degree of uncertainty; as a result, a three-dimensional VSM is obtained. The authors finally provide an example to verify the feasibility and effectiveness of VSM-PCR method in treating the uncertainty mapping of ontology.
Development of a surgical site infection surveillance programme in a Scottish neurosurgical unit
Authors: Canty Michael , George Edward Jerome St
Published: May 2018

Purpose

Surgical site infection (SSI) is a common complication in surgical practice. SSIs represent almost a fifth of healthcare-associated infections in Scotland, and have deleterious effects on mortality, morbidity, length of stay, and cost to the health service. SSIs in neurosurgery may be more consequential than in other specialities given the potentially devastating effects of central nervous system infection. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

In 2014, the authors became concerned about an anecdotal increase in infection rates in the authors’ unit. While national guidance on SSI surveillance existed in England and Scotland, the authors had no relevant procedures or policies in Glasgow, and began the process of establishing a surveillance programme. This was driven by clinicians but faced challenges due to a lack of involvement of the wider organisation in the early stages.

Findings

SSIs were initially reported via a form-filling system. This developed into an editable hospital intranet database, but still suffered from the problems of voluntary entries and under-reporting. Following the formal engagement of management structures and the funding of a surveillance nurse, the authors’ programme developed robustness, and resilience. With the advent of an SSI committee, the authors now have a well-established programme that ingrains SSI prevention in the collective learning and organisational memory of the authors’ unit.

Originality/value

Clinicians must lead on the development of these programmes, but long-term durability requires engagement and support from the wider organisation.
Impact of federal income tax rates and government borrowing on nominal interest rate yields on tax-free municipal bonds
Authors: Cebula Richard , Nair-Reichert Usha
Published: May 2018

Purpose

This study investigates the impact of federal income tax rates and budget deficits on the nominal interest rate yield on high-grade municipal tax-free bonds (municipals) in the US. The 58-year study period covers the years 1959 through 2016 and thus is very recent.

Design/methodology/approach

The study develops a loanable funds model that allows for various financial market factors. Once developed, the model is estimated by autoregressive two-stage least squares, with a Newey-West heteroskedasticity correction.

Findings

The nominal interest rate yield on municipals is a decreasing function of the maximum marginal federal personal income tax rate and an increasing function of the federal budget deficit (expressed as a per cent of GDP). This yield is also an increasing function of nominal interest rate yields on three- and ten-year treasury notes and expected inflation.

Research limitations/implications

When introducing additional interest rates such as treasury bills as explanatory variables, multi-collinearity becomes a serious problem.

Practical implications

This study indicates that lower maximum federal personal income tax rates and larger federal budget deficits, both act to raise borrowing costs for cities (of all sizes), counties and states across the country. Given the study period of 58 years, these relationships appear to be enduring ones that responsible policy-makers should not overlook.

Social implications

Tax reform and debt management need to be conducted in a very circumspect fashion.

Originality/value

No recent study investigating the impact of the two key policy variables in this study has been published.
CCP recovery and resolution: preventing a financial catastrophe
Authors: Priem Randy
Published: May 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to discuss the European Commission’s proposal for a central counterparty (CCP) recovery and resolution regulation. In this respect, the paper comments the consequences, risks and attention points for CCPs and their authorities.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper focuses on the proposed rules surrounding CCP recovery and resolution. The paper first familiarizes the reader with the risk management procedures currently obliged before discussing the resolution and recovery provisions foreseen in the proposal.

Findings

The proposed regulation commands significant requirements for CCPs and for their regulators. Not only will CCPs have to draft a recovery plan but also a resolution authority will need to be assigned. The latter will have the task, in consultation with a resolution college, to draft a resolution plan. When a resolution is inevitable, authorities will need to assure the continuation of the CCP’s critical functions, thereby warranting financial stability and investor protection.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, there are no other papers that provide a holistic overview of the newly proposed regulation and describe the choices to be made during a CCP’s resolution. This paper will be of interest to all CCPs and their stakeholders, such as their regulators, clearing members and their clients and other linked financial market infrastructures.
The determinants of anti-money laundering compliance among the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) member states
Authors: Mekpor Emmanuel Senanu , Aboagye Anthony , Welbeck Jonathan
Published: May 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to compute a measure for anti-money laundering/counter-financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) compliance and investigate its determinants.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) recommendations and assigning weights to them, the study computes a measure for AML compliance. Further, the determinants of AML compliance were investigated using ordinary least squares (OLS) data of 155 countries between 2004 and 2016.

Findings

The findings suggest that AML compliance have slightly improved over the years. Further, the OLS regression results show that technology, regulatory quality, bank concentration, trade openness and financial intelligence center significantly determined and improved AML compliance.

Practical implications

From the findings, it is evident that countries that wish to improve the AML compliance should focus more on technology, regulatory quality, structure of the banking sector, size of the economy and institution of financial intelligence center so as to enhance AML compliance.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this paper reveals a first AML/CFT compliance index that measures the cross-country level of AML/CFT compliance from the year 2004 to 2016. Subsequently, this paper adopted an OLS econometric model to identify the key determinants of AML/CFT compliance among member states of FATF.
Toward a socio-contextual understanding of transliteracy
Authors: Hovious Amanda
Published: May 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the emerging concept of transliteracy from the perspective of literacy as a socially constructed and contextual practice.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic review of the literature explores the origins and development of transliteracy in the context of the multiple understandings of literacy. An argument is made that the current discussion among academic librarians about transliteracy as a set of skills is incompatible with its socio-constructivist roots.

Findings

Librarians’ interest in transliteracy stems from its relationship to information literacy, with current discussion focused on defining its skills. However, a skills-based perspective does not reflect the nature of what it means to be transliterate. Rather than a common set of skills that are practiced across multiple media platforms, transliteracy can be reconceptualized as a social practice that crosses multiple contexts (e.g. school, home and workplace).

Practical implications

This expanded understanding better aligns transliteracy to recent developments in information literacy, such as the knowledge practices of the ACRL framework.

Originality/value

This paper introduces an expanded understanding of transliteracy, adding to the growing conversation about the relationship between emergent literacies and information literacy.
The Development of a Conceptual Framework and Preliminary Item Bank for Childbirth‐Specific Patient‐Reported Outcome Measures
Authors: Korst Lisa M. , Fridman Moshe , Saeb Samia , Greene Naomi , Fink Arlene , Gregory Kimberly D.
Published: May 2018

Objective

To develop a conceptual framework and preliminary item bank for childbirth‐specific patient‐reported outcome (PRO) domains.

Data Sources

Women, who were U.S. residents, ≥18 years old, and ≥20 weeks pregnant, were surveyed regarding their childbirth values and preferences (V&P) using online panels.

Study Design

Using community‐based research techniques and Patient‐Reported Outcomes Management Information System (PROMIS®) methodology, we conducted a comprehensive literature review to identify self‐reported survey items regarding patient‐reported V&P and childbirth experiences and outcomes (PROs). The V&P/PRO domains were validated by focus groups. We conducted a cross‐sectional observational study and fitted a multivariable logistic regression model to each V&P item to describe “who” wanted each item.

Principal Findings

We identified 5,880 V&P/PRO items that mapped to 19 domains and 58 subdomains. We present results for the 2,250 survey respondents who anticipated a vaginal delivery in a hospital. Wide variation existed regarding each V&P item, and personal characteristics, such as maternal confidence and ability to cope well with pain, were frequent predictors in the models. The resulting preliminary item bank consisted of 60 key personal characteristics and 63 V&P/PROs.

Conclusions

The conceptual framework and preliminary (PROMIS®) item bank presented here provide a foundation for the development of childbirth‐specific V&P/PROs.
Visibility of bony structures around hip prostheses in dual‐energy CT: With or without metal artefact reduction software
Authors: Jeong Jewon , Kim Hyun‐joo , Oh Eunsun , Cha Jang Gyu , Hwang Jiyoung , Hong Seong Sook , Chang Yun Woo
Published: May 2018

Introduction

The development of dual‐energy CT and metal artefact reduction software provides a further chance of reducing metal‐related artefacts. However, there have been only a few studies regarding whether MARs practically affect visibility of structures around a metallic hip prosthesis on post‐operative CT evaluation.

Methods

Twenty‐seven patients with 42 metallic hip prostheses underwent DECT. The datasets were reconstructed with 70, 90 and 110 keV with and without MARs. The areas were classified into 10 zones according to the reference zone. All the images were reviewed in terms of the severity of the beam‐hardening artefacts, differentiation of the bony cortex and trabeculae and visualization of trabecular patterns with a three‐point scale. The metallic screw diameter was measured in the acetabulum with 110 keV images.

Results

The scores were the worst on 70 keV images without MARs [mean scores:1.84–4.22 (p < 0.001–1.000)]. The structures in zone II were best visualized on 110 keV (p < 0.001–0.011, mean scores: 2.86–5.22). In other zones, there is general similarity in mean scores whether applying MARs or not (p < 0.001–0.920). The mean diameter of the screw was 5.85 mm without MARs and 3.44 mm with MARs (mean reference diameter: 6.48 mm).

Conclusion

The 110 keV images without MARs are best for evaluating acetabular zone II. The visibility of the bony structures around the hip prosthesis is similar in the other zones with or without MARs regardless of keV. MARS may not be needed for the evaluation of the metallic hip prosthesis itself at sufficient high‐energy levels; however, MARS still has a role in the evaluation of other soft tissues around the prosthesis.
Power motivates heightened sexual attraction to the opposite sex among heterosexual men and women
Authors: Zheng Lijun , Zhang Jing , Zheng Yong
Published: May 2018

Previous studies have demonstrated that power induces sexual overperception by activating mating motivation. This study examined the impact of power on sexual attraction to the opposite sex among heterosexual men and women. We manipulated power by instructing participants to recall an incident in their lives where they possessed power over someone else (high power) or someone else possessed power over them (low power). We controlled for individual variations in sex drive, sexual sensation seeking, and sociosexual orientation. We asked participants to record their sexual attraction to images of the opposite sex in swimsuits. Our results showed that high‐power individuals, both men and women, recorded significantly greater sexual attraction to the images than did low‐power individuals, demonstrating that power heightens sexual attraction to the opposite sex among heterosexual men and women. The findings highlight power's activation of the mating motivation and have implications for the effect of power on sexualized behaviors.
Upper airway obstruction assessment: Peak inspiratory flow and clinical COPD Questionnaire
Authors: Sanchez‐Guerrero J. , Guerlain J. , Samaha S. , Burgess A. , Lacau St Guily J. , Périé S.
Published: May 2018

Objectives

Spirometric evaluation of upper airway obstruction (UAO) is not commonly performed by Otolaryngologists. In addition, functional evaluation of UAO by flow‐volume loops (FVL) is not available in all clinical settings. More recently, peak inspiratory flow (PIF) has proven to be a useful tool to monitor UAO at the patient's bedside. The aim of this work is to assess the role of PIF measured with a simple flow metre (In‐Check method) as a standardised, simple, non‐invasive tool in quantifying chronic and subacute UAO in a routine clinical practice. In addition, a Clinical COPD Questionnaire (CCQ), previously validated to assess the psychophysical status in patients with laryngotracheal stenosis, was utilised to evaluate respiratory function in UAO.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Settings

University teaching hospital.

Participants

Seventy 2 subjects, an UAO group of 26 patients and a control group of 46 healthy subjects.

Main outcome measures

The ability of PIF values to discriminate between the UAO group and the control group was assessed using a ROC curve. A Spearman rank correlation was used to test the relationship between PIF measurements and the global CCQ score. Additionally, an analysis of CCQ at domain and items levels was performed.

Results

Peak inspiratory flow values were accurate, with an area under the ROC curve (AUC) of 0.98 (P < .05) for differentiating the control group from the UAO group. A threshold PIF value of 170 L/min was found for diagnosing UAO. An inconclusive negative trend was found (r = −.19; P = .35) between PIF values and CCQ global score. Concerning CCQ, the symptoms domain was the most affected by UAO, higher than mental domains (P < .001) as well as functional domains (P < .01). Exertional dyspnoea and cough were the items that obtained the highest disturbed scores.

Conclusions

Peak inspiratory flow is a non‐invasive, quantitative parameter to evaluate the severity of UAO. Testing can be easily performed in a routine clinical setting, with a non‐expensive hand‐held device, and could help medical follow‐up programmes and prevent emergency situations. However, FVL may be necessary for further assessment of UAO diseases. The CCQ confirms that exertional dyspnoea is the main symptom of UAO, but cough remains a common symptom.
Refined 4‐group classification of left ventricular hypertrophy based on ventricular concentricity and volume dilatation outlines distinct noninvasive hemodynamic profiles in a large contemporary echocardiographic population
Authors: Barbieri Andrea , Rossi Andrea , Gaibazzi Nicola , Erlicher Andrea , Mureddu Gian Francesco , Frattini Silvia , Faden Giacomo , Manicardi Marcella , Beraldi Monica , Agostini Francesco , Lazzarini Valentina , Moreo Antonella , Temporelli Pier Luigi , Faggiano Pompilio
Published: May 2018

Background

Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) may reflect a wide variety of physiologic and pathologic conditions. Thus, it can be misleading to consider all LVH to be homogenous or similar. Refined 4‐group classification of LVH based on ventricular concentricity and dilatation may be identified. To determine whether the 4‐group classification of LVH identified distinct phenotypes, we compared their association with various noninvasive markers of cardiac stress.

Methods

Cohort of unselected adult outpatients referred to a seven tertiary care echocardiographic laboratory for any indication in a 2‐week period. We evaluated the LV geometric patterns using validated echocardiographic indexation methods and partition values.

Results

Standard echocardiography was performed in 1137 consecutive subjects, and LVH was found in 42%. The newly proposed 4‐group classification of LVH was applicable in 88% of patients. The most common pattern resulted in concentric LVH (19%). The worst functional and hemodynamic profile was associated with eccentric LVH and those with mixed LVH had a higher prevalence of reduced EF than those with concentric LVH (P < .001 for all).

Conclusions

The new 4‐group classification of LVH system showed distinct differences in cardiac function and noninvasive hemodynamics allowing clinicians to distinguish different LV hemodynamic stress adaptations in patients with LVH.
Cholinergic modulation of striatal microcircuits
Authors: Abudukeyoumu Nilupaer , Hernandez‐Flores Teresa , Garcia‐Munoz Marianela , Arbuthnott Gordon W.
Published: May 2018

The purpose of this review is to bridge the gap between earlier literature on striatal cholinergic interneurons and mechanisms of microcircuit interaction demonstrated with the use of newly available tools. It is well known that the main source of the high level of acetylcholine in the striatum, compared to other brain regions, is the cholinergic interneurons. These interneurons provide an extensive local innervation that suggests they may be a key modulator of striatal microcircuits. Supporting this idea requires the consideration of functional properties of these interneurons, their influence on medium spiny neurons, other interneurons, and interactions with other synaptic regulators. Here, we underline the effects of intrastriatal and extrastriatal afferents onto cholinergic interneurons and discuss the activation of pre‐ and postsynaptic muscarinic and nicotinic receptors that participate in the modulation of intrastriatal neuronal interactions. We further address recent findings about corelease of other transmitters in cholinergic interneurons and actions of these interneurons in striosome and matrix compartments. In addition, we summarize recent evidence on acetylcholine‐mediated striatal synaptic plasticity and propose roles for cholinergic interneurons in normal striatal physiology. A short examination of their role in neurological disorders such as Parkinson's, Huntington's, and Tourette's pathologies and dystonia is also included.
Trade and organization in the colonial Caribbean
Authors: Finucane Adrian
Published: May 2018

Trade created connections, whether officially sanctioned or illicit, within the Caribbean. Yet traditional approaches to the history of the early modern Caribbean have often considered only the Spanish, French, or English empires or formal contact among colonies, neglecting the constructive power of networks of interaction among merchants, sailors, and even pirates. These contacts drew the islands and shores into a cohesive region that owed its existence more to regional exchange than to the metropoles of Europe that wished to control particular geographies. By looking at smuggling and the actions of empires such as the Dutch and Portuguese, whose approaches to trade differed greatly from those of imperial powers that controlled larger amounts of land, recent historical work on the colonial Caribbean has revealed the importance of legal and contraband trade in creating an entangled region with linked economies, suggesting the limits of approaching the Caribbean from the perspective of any one single empire.
Effects of different periodontal treatments in changing the prevalence and levels of Archaea present in the subgingival biofilm of subjects with periodontitis: A secondary analysis from a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Ramiro FS , de Lira EAG , Soares GMS , Retamal‐Valdes B , Feres M , Figueiredo LC , Faveri M
Published: May 2018

Objective

The aim of this randomized double‐blind and placebo‐controlled study was to assess if periodontal treatment with or without systemic antibiotic would change the mean level of Archaea.

Methods

Fifty‐nine (59) subjects were randomly assigned to receive scaling and root planing (SRP) alone or combined with metronidazole (MTZ; 400 mg/TID) or either with MTZ and amoxicillin (AMX; 500 mg/TID) for 14 days. Clinical and microbiological examinations were performed at baseline and at 6 months post‐SRP. Six subgingival plaque samples per subject were analysed for the presence and levels of Archaea using quantitative polymerase chain reaction.

Results

Scaling and root planing alone or combined with MTZ or MTZ + AMX significantly reduced the prevalence of subjects colonized by Archaea at 6 months post‐therapy, without significant differences among groups (P > .05). Both therapies led to a statistically significant decrease in the mean percentage of sites colonized by Archaea (P < .05). The MTZ and MTZ + AMX group had a significantly lower mean number of sites colonized by Archaea and lower levels of these micro‐organisms at sites with probing depth ≥5 mm at 6 months compared with SRP group (P < .05).

Conclusion

Periodontal treatments including adjunctive MTZ or MTZ + AMX are more effective than mechanical treatment alone in reducing the levels and prevalence of sites colonized by Archaea in subjects with chronic periodontitis.
Predicting Default More Accurately: To Proxy or Not to Proxy for Default?
Authors: Galil Koresh , Gilat Neta
Published: May 2018

Previous studies targeting accuracy improvement of default models mainly focused on the choice of the explanatory variables and the statistical approach. We alter the focus to the choice of the dependent variable. We particularly explore whether the common practice (in the literature) of using proxies for default events (bankruptcy or delisting) to increase sample size indeed improves accuracy. We examine four definitions of financial distress and show that each definition carries considerably different characteristics. We discover that rating agencies effort to measure correctly the timing of default is valuable. Our main conclusion is that one cannot improve default prediction by making use of other distress events.
Effects of humidity on skin friction against medical textiles as related to prevention of pressure injuries
Authors: Schwartz Danit , Magen Yana Katsman , Levy Ayelet , Gefen Amit
Published: May 2018

Sustained pressure, shear forces, and friction, as well as elevated humidity/moisture, are decisive physical factors in the development of pressure injuries (PIs). To date, further research is needed in order to understand the influence of humidity and moisture on the coefficient of friction (COF) of skin against different types of medical textiles. The aim of this work was to investigate the effects of moisture caused by sweat, urine, or saline on the resulting COF of skin against different textiles used in the medical setting in the context of PI prevention. For that purpose, we performed physical measurements of static COFs of porcine skin followed by finite element (FE) computational modelling in order to illustrate the effect of increased COF at the skin on the resulting strains and stresses deep within the soft tissues of the buttocks. The COF of dry skin obtained for the 3 textiles varied between 0.59 (adult diaper) and 0.91 (polyurethane dressing). In addition, the COF increased with the added moisture in all of the tested cases. The results of the FE simulations further showed that increased COF results in elevated strain energy density and shear strain values in the skin and deeper tissues and, hence, in an increased risk for PI development. We conclude that moisture may accelerate PI formation by increasing the COF between the skin and the medical textile, regardless of the type of the liquid that is present. Hence, reduction of the wetness/moisture between the skin and fabrics in patients at a high risk of developing PIs is a key measure in PI prevention.
Litigation risk: Measurement and impact on M&A transaction terms
Authors: de La Bruslerie Hubert , Le Maux Julien
Published: May 2018

The purpose of the paper is to propose an original proprietary proxy of a firm's litigation risk. We extend the scope of litigation risk outside of the conflicts with shareholders and the domain of security litigation. We demonstrate that the source of the risk of litigation can be found in the firm's policies and in its management's operational or strategic decisions, even if a sector conditioning effect exists. Based on a sample of 465 US M&A transactions between 2000 and 2014, we provide evidence that the level of litigation risk, at the acquirer's level, has a positive and significant impact on the takeover premium. We also provide evidence that a significant relationship exists between the acquirer's litigation risk and the means of payment. An extension of the sample to international transactions is used as a robustness check; it confirms the previous results.
Reply to Gambichler T et al.: Altered epigenetic pathways and cell cycle dysregulation in healthy appearing skin of patients with koebnerized squamous cell carcinomas following skin surgery
Authors: Nwabudike L.C. , Tatu A.L.
Published: May 2018

Linked article: This article is commented on by T. Gambichler et al., pp. e4–e5 in this issue. To view this article visit https://doi.org/10.1111/jdv.15086
Teledermatology‐driven topical therapy of actinic keratosis: a comparative study of clinical effectiveness and compliance
Authors: Ferrándiz L. , Morales‐Conde M. , Fernández‐Orland A. , Martín‐Gutiérrez F.J. , Raya‐Maldonado J. , Toledo‐Pastrana T. , Moreno‐Ramírez D.
Published: May 2018

Background

Teledermatology (TD) provides efficient care for skin cancer patients.

Objective

To compare the clinical effectiveness of imiquimod 5% for the treatment of AK with in‐person care and through TD.

Methods

Longitudinal prospective controlled study including patients with single AK diagnosed and treated at face‐to‐face visits (FTF group) or through teledermatology (TD group) with imiquimod 5% cream. The main outcome measures assessed were the complete and global response percentage (CR and GR) under per‐protocol (PP) and intention‐to‐treat (ITT) analysis.

Results

A total of 157 patients were enrolled (FTF = 75, TD = 82). PP analysis showed CR in 66.7% of FTF patients and 65.6% in TD patients (P > 0.05). The ITT yielded CR in 64.0% and 51.2% in FTF visits and TD, respectively (P = 0.073). The analysis showed an advantage of FTF care against TD in achieving GR (84.0% vs. 70.7%; P = 0.036). Facial location and local adverse reactions were the only explanatory factors of complete response in the ITT approach. Treatment completion was found in 90.7% and 72.0% in the FTF and TD groups, respectively (P = 0.004).

Conclusions

Improvements in patient counselling at the primary care centre are needed before the implementation of TD as a routine methodology for the management of AK.
Tinea capitis in children: a systematic review of management
Authors: Gupta A.K. , Mays R.R. , Versteeg S.G. , Piraccini B.M. , Shear N.H. , Piguet V. , Tosti A. , Friedlander S.F.
Published: May 2018

Background

Tinea capitis is the most common cutaneous fungal infection in children.

Objectives

This review aims to evaluate the differences that exist between medications for the treatment of tinea capitis, to determine whether there are any significant adverse effects associated and to define the usefulness of sample collection methods.

Methods

We conducted a systematic literature search of available papers using the databases PubMed, OVID, Cochrane Libraries and ClinicalTrials.gov. Twenty‐one RCTs and 17 CTs were found.

Results

Among the different antifungal therapies (oral and combination thereof), continuous itraconazole and terbinafine had the highest mycological cure rates (79% and 81%, respectively), griseofulvin and terbinafine had the highest clinical cure rates (46% and 58%, respectively) and griseofulvin and terbinafine had the highest complete cure rate (72% and 92%, respectively). Griseofulvin more effectively treated Microsporum infections; terbinafine and itraconazole more effectively cured Trichophyton infections. Only 1.0% of children had to discontinue medication based on adverse events. T. tonsurans was the most common organism found in North America, and hairbrush collection method is the most efficient method of sample collection. Additionally, using a hairbrush, toothbrush or cotton swab to identify the infecting organism(s) is the least invasive and most efficient method of tinea capitis sample collection in children.

Conclusions

Current dosing regimens of reported drugs are effective and safe for use in tinea capitis in children.
On the Instability of Long‐Run Money Demand and the Welfare Cost of Inflation in the United States
Authors: MOGLIANI MATTEO , URGA GIOVANNI
Published: May 2018

We evaluate the policy implications of measuring the welfare cost of inflation accounting for instabilities in the long‐run money demand for the United States over the period 1900–2013. We extend the analysis and reassess the results reported in Lucas (2000) and Ireland (2009), also considering the recent theoretical contributions of Lucas and Nicolini (2015) and Berentsen, Huber, and Marchesiani (2015). Breaks in the long‐run money demand give rise to regime‐dependent welfare cost estimates. We find that the welfare cost is about 0.1% of annual income over 1976–2013, as compared to 0.8% over 1945–75. Overall, these values are substantially lower than those reported in the literature.
Institutional density and public policies in two cases of geographical indications from Mexico and Spain
Authors: Fernández‐Zarza Mario , Amaya‐Corchuelo Santiago , Aguilar Criado Encarnación
Published: May 2018

This study analyses the role of private and/or public institutions on achieving success in projects aiming to obtain certification labels for local food products. This analysis is performed through comparative framework provided by 2 specific study cases; 1 from Mexico, based on the production of a type of traditional spicy pork sausage, or chorizo, and another from Spain, on the production of Iberian ham. A mixed methodology has been used to perform an in‐depth analysis of socio‐political contexts by distinguishing the divergent institutional frameworks of both cases. The study will contribute to connecting the results of these initiatives to the institutional density in which both proposals are originated and are implemented. From there, the text explores the reasons for success, stagnation, and/or failure of these actions. These empirical data constitute an important contribution to the analysis of geographical indications and diverse sociological universes supporting the differentiation of agrifood quality certification.
MP2RAGE and Susceptibility‐Weighted Imaging in Lesional Epilepsy at 7T
Authors: Pittau Francesca , Baud Maxime O. , Jorge João , Xin Lijing , Grouiller Frédéric , Iannotti Giannina R. , Seeck Margitta , Lazeyras François , Vulliémoz Serge , Vargas Maria Isabel
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Surgery is the first choice therapeutic approach in case of drug‐resistant epilepsy. Unfortunately, up to 43% of patients referred for presurgical assessment do not have a lesion detectable by routine 3T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (MRI‐negative), although most of them likely have an underlying epileptogenic lesion. Thus, new MRI modalities with increased sensibility for epileptogenic lesions are required. This paper describes the magnetization‐prepared two rapid acquisition gradient echoes (MP2RAGE) and susceptibility‐weighted imaging (SWI) findings at 7T in a series of patients with drug‐resistant epilepsy of different etiologies.

METHODS

Prospective pilot study of 7 patients with drug‐resistant lesional epilepsy and absence of contraindications for MRI underwent a research 7T head‐only scanner. Qualitative analysis of the high‐resolution MP2RAGE and SWI sequences is given for each case. This study was approved by the local ethics committee. Written informed consent was obtained from each participant.

RESULTS

This study shows that such sequences at ultra‐high field are new and valuable approaches to unravel and characterize epileptogenic lesions. Particularly, MP2RAGE shows a better delineation of lesions due to high gray‐white matter contrast and structural resolution, and SWI reveals new imaging signs related to improved magnitude and phase contrast imaging.

CONCLUSION

MRI at ultra‐high field is very promising for the detection of inconspicuous epileptogenic lesions and may facilitate epilepsy surgery of a great number of to‐date MRI‐negative patients.
Embryonal Tumor with Multilayered Rosettes, C19MC‐Altered: Clinical, Pathological, and Neuroimaging Findings
Authors: Wang Bing , Gogia Bhanu , Fuller Gregory N. , Ketonen Leena M.
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Embryonal tumor with multilayered rosettes (ETMR), C19MC‐altered, is a recently described, rare central nervous system tumor. To our knowledge, the imaging findings of this tumor have not been systematically evaluated in the neuroradiology literature. We present here the clinical, radiological, and pathological correlation of a case series of this very rare tumor, including the full range of anatomic compartment presentations (supratentorial, infratentorial, and spinal).

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 7 (4M, 3F) pathologically‐proven cases of ETMR referred to our institution between 2007 and 2017. We demonstrate the imaging characteristics of this tumor on CT and MRI with advanced imaging.

RESULTS

All of the patients are children (ages 1–12). On MR imaging of ETMR, contrast enhancement is often heterogeneous and minimal if any, and there is no significant surrounding T2 fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) hyperintensity to suggest edema. The lesions were often expansile with no evidence of infiltration of the fiber tracks that were displaced by the tumor mass. Diffusion‐weighted imaging often demonstrated restricted diffusion within ETMRs. On magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), the choline/creatine (Cho/Cr) ratio is increased, with low N‐acetylaspartate (NAA) or NAA/Cho ratio, typical of high‐grade tumors.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrate the conventional and advanced imaging characteristics of ETMR, including MRS and diffusion tensor imaging, which, to our knowledge, have not been systematically evaluated in the radiology literature. The knowledge gained may potentially impact patient management, especially in inoperable cases and in locations where it is risky to perform a biopsy.
Leucocyte telomere shortening is associated with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease‐related advanced fibrosis
Authors: Kim Donghee , Li Andrew A. , Ahmed Aijaz
Published: May 2018

Background & Aim

Telomere length and telomerase have been linked with cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. However, the impact of telomere length on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and advanced fibrosis in a large national population sample is not well understood.

Methods

Cross‐sectional data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999‐2002 were utilized. Suspected nonalcoholic fatty liver disease was diagnosed if serum alanine aminotransferase was >30 IU/L for men and >19 IU/L for women in the absence of other causes of chronic liver disease. Presence of advanced fibrosis was determined by the nonalcoholic fatty liver disease fibrosis score, aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index and FIB‐4 score.

Results

Of the 6738 participants (mean age 46.3 years, 48.4% male), suspected nonalcoholic fatty liver disease prevalence was inversely associated with leucocyte telomere length in young adults aged 20‐39 years, though this was not seen in the overall population. Percentage of participants with advanced fibrosis increased corresponding with leucocyte telomere length (longest to shortest). The shortest quartile of leucocyte telomere length was associated with a significantly higher odds ratio (95% confidence interval) of advanced fibrosis of 2.36 (1.32‐4.24) in a univariate model compared to the longest quartile, and 2.01 (1.13‐3.58) in a multivariate model adjusted for age, gender, ethnicity, waist circumference, smoking, diabetes, hypertension, total cholesterol and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (P for trend <.05 respectively).

Conclusions

In this large nationally representative sample of American adults, leucocyte telomere shortening was associated with increased risk of advanced fibrosis in the setting of suspected nonalcoholic fatty liver disease independent of other known risk factors.
Identifying and integrating patient and caregiver perspectives in clinical practice guidelines for percutaneous renal biopsy
Authors: Gutman Talia , Lopez‐Vargas Pamela , Manera Karine E , Craig Jonathan C , Howell Martin , Tunnicliffe David , James Laura J , MacGinley Rob , See Emily , Wong Jeffrey , Voss David , Saunders John , Menahem Solomon , Jesudason Shilpanjali , Tong Allison , Champion de Crespigny Paul
Published: May 2018

Aim

Percutaneous renal biopsy is often essential for providing reliable diagnostic and prognostic information for people with suspected kidney disease, however the procedure can lead to complications and concerns among patients. This study aims to identify and integrate patient priorities and perspectives into the Kidney Health Australia – Caring for Australasians with Renal Impairment clinical practice guidelines for renal biopsy, to ensure patient‐relevance.

Methods

We convened a workshop, consisting of three simultaneous focus groups and a plenary session, with 10 patients who had undergone a renal biopsy and seven caregivers. Topics and outcomes prioritized by patients and their caregivers were compared to those identified by the guideline working group, which was comprised of seven nephrologists. Transcripts and flipcharts were analyzed thematically to identify the reasons for participants’ choices.

Results

In total, 34 topics/outcomes were identified, 14 of which were common to the list of 28 previously identified by the guideline working group. Most of the new topics identified by patients/caregivers were related to communication and education, psychosocial support, and self‐management. We identified five themes underpinning the reasons for topic and outcome selection: alleviating anxiety and unnecessary distress, minimizing discomfort and disruption, supporting family and caregivers, enabling self‐management, and protecting their kidney. A new topic on patient care and education was added to the guideline as a result.

Conclusions

Patient and caregiver involvement in developing guidelines on renal biopsy ensured that their concerns and needs for education, psychosocial support, and self‐management were explicitly addressed; enabling a patient‐centred approach to renal biopsies.
Using CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing in tomato to create a gibberellin‐responsive dominant dwarf DELLA allele
Authors: Tomlinson Laurence , Yang Ying , Emenecker Ryan , Smoker Matthew , Taylor Jodie , Perkins Sara , Smith Justine , MacLean Dan , Olszewski Neil E. , Jones Jonathan D. G.
Published: May 2018

The tomato PROCERA gene encodes a DELLA protein, and loss‐of‐function mutations derepress growth. We used CRISPR/Cas9 and a single guide RNAs (sgRNA) to target mutations to the PROCERA DELLA domain, and recovered several loss‐of‐function mutations and a dominant dwarf mutation that carries a deletion of one amino acid in the DELLA domain. This is the first report of a dominant dwarf PROCERA allele. This allele retains partial responsiveness to exogenously applied gibberellin. Heterozygotes show an intermediate phenotype at the seedling stage, but adult heterozygotes are as dwarfed as homozygotes.
Truth‐Sensitivity and Folk Epistemology
Authors: Gerken Mikkel
Published: May 2018

Several studies have found a robust effect of truth on epistemic evaluation of belief, decision, action and assertion. Thus, truth has a significant effect on normative participant evaluations. Some theorists take thistruth effectto motivate factive epistemic norms of belief, action, assertion etc. In contrast, I argue that the truth effect is best understood as an epistemic instance of the familiar and ubiquitous phenomenon ofoutcome bias. I support this diagnosis from three interrelating perspectives: (1) by epistemological theorizing, (2) by considerations from cognitive psychology and (3) by methodological reflections on the relationship between folk epistemology and epistemological theorizing.
Jurisgenerative role of auditors in transnational labor governance
Authors: Paiement Phillip
Published: May 2018

This article builds on the model of regulatory intermediaries by incorporating insights from the field of legal hermeneutics about the process through which the meaning of a legal rule emerges. It describes how intermediaries can take on a jurisgenerative role in the development of legal rules through their interpretation of legal rules. This role is demonstrated through an analysis of social audits from Chinese and Vietnamese factories involved in the Fair Labor Association (FLA). The analysis illustrates how the integration of fundamental labor rights into the FLA's private Code of Conduct requires auditors to develop new interpretations of the Freedom of Association as a result of uncertainties and contradictions between legal requirements at various levels, as well as with the FLA's own rules. Through this empirical analysis, the article contributes to the literature by identifying regulatory intermediaries’ jurisgenerative capacities when they monitor fundamental labor rights referenced by private governance instruments. It further highlights why legal and regulatory governance scholars need to consider the transformative effects that transnational private labor governance may have on international labor law.