bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sucrose or sucrose and caffeine differentially impact memory and anxiety-like behaviours, and alter hippocampal parvalbumin and doublecortin
Authors: Xu Tanya J. , Reichelt Amy C.
Published: April 2018

Caffeinated sugar-sweetened “energy” drinks are a subset of soft drinks that are popular among young people worldwide. High sucrose diets impair cognition and alter aspects of emotional behaviour in rats, however, little is known about sucrose combined with caffeine. Rats were allocated to 2h/day 10% sucrose (Suc), 10% sucrose plus 0.04% caffeine (CafSuc) or control (water) conditions. The addition of caffeine to sucrose appeared to increase the rewarding aspect of sucrose, as the CafSuc group consumed more solution than the Suc group. After 14 days of intermittent Suc or CafSuc access, anxiety was assessed in the elevated plus maze (EPM) prior to their daily solution access, whereby CafSuc and Suc rats spent more time in the closed arms, indicative of increased anxiety. Following daily solution access, CafSuc, but not Suc, rats showed reduced anxiety-like behaviour in the open-field. Control and CafSuc rats displayed intact place and long-term object memory, while Suc showed impaired memory performance. Sucrose reduced parvalbumin immunoreactivity in the hippocampus, but no differences were observed between Control and CafSuc conditions. Parvalbumin reactivity in the basolateral amygdala did not differ between conditions. Reduced doublecortin immunoreactivity in the dentate gyrus relative to controls was seen in the CafSuc, but not Suc, treatment condition. These findings indicate that the addition of caffeine to sucrose attenuates cognitive deficits. However, the addition of caffeine to sucrose evokes anxiety-like responses under certain testing conditions, suggesting that frequent consumption of caffeinated energy drinks may promote emotional alterations and brain changes compared to standard soft drinks.
A sagittally confined high-resolution spectrometer in the `water window'
Authors: Li Zhuo , Li Bin
Published: April 2018

The authors report a novel scheme for a grazing-incidence spectrometer forming an excellent meridional flat field in its detector domain to deliver the desired spectral resolution throughout the full designated spectral range, while reducing the sagittal astigmatism substantially to enhance the spectral intensity. The optical properties of the system are thoroughly investigated and optimized, and the detector plane is fitted well to the meridional or sagittal focal curves. The authors demonstrated that a resolving power of 6000–18000 could be achieved within the `water window' (2–5 nm) for an effective meridional source size of 200 µm (r.m.s.), and it would be further improved to 20000–40000 if the source size was confined to 50 µm (r.m.s.).
Integrated beamline control and data acquisition for small-angle X-ray scattering at the P12 BioSAXS beamline at PETRAIII storage ring DESY
Authors: Hajizadeh Nelly R. , Franke Daniel , Svergun Dmitri I.
Published: April 2018

The versatility of small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) as a structural biology method is apparent by its compatibility with many experimental set-ups. Most advanced SAXS studies are conducted at dedicated synchrotron beamlines yielding high beam brilliance, throughput and temporal resolution. However, utilizing the full potential of the method while preserving a high degree of automation provides a challenge to any SAXS beamline. This challenge is especially pertinent at the P12 BioSAXS beamline of the EMBL at the PETRAIII Synchrotron DESY (Hamburg, Germany), optimized and dedicated to scattering of macromolecular solutions. Over 200 unique set-ups are possible at this beamline offering various functionalities, including different temporal and spatial resolutions. Presented here is a beamline control and data-acquisition software,BECQUEREL, designed to maximize flexibility and automation in the operation of P12. In the frame of a single intuitive interface the control system allows for convenient operation with all hardware set-ups available at P12 including a robotic sample changer, in-line size-exclusion chromatography, stop-flow devices, microfluidic spinning disk and various in-air settings. Additional functionalities are available to assist the data-collection procedure for novice users, and also routine operation of the support staff.
Advertising strategy and its effectiveness on consumer online search in a defaming product-harm crisis
Authors: Jang Sungha , Kim Jinsoo , Song Reo , Kim Ho
Published: April 2018

Purpose

Actual product-harm crises pose significant challenges to firms, but so can defaming product-harm crises, which are defined as crises caused by false or malicious rumors made by consumers or competing firms. Unlike typical product-harm crises, in defaming product-harm crises, the truth often emerges only after substantial damage has been done to the victim firm. Thus, crisis management strategies in these two cases may be different. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a defaming product-harm crisis that involved two competing firms, this paper examines how the firms changed their advertising strategies and how the changes affected consumers’ online search behavior regarding the two firms.

Findings

The analyses show that after the crisis, the offending firm sensitively reacted to its own and the victim firm’s advertising levels, but the victim firm did not react to the offending firm’s advertising as it had previously. The effectiveness of advertising on consumers’ online search weakened for both firms after the crisis.

Originality/value

The paper provides a new insight about marketing strategies and their effectiveness in the product-harm crisis literature.
Synthesizing moderate upscale restaurant patrons’ dining experiences
Authors: Clemes Michael Daniel , Mohi Zurinawati , Li Xuedong , Hu Baiding
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop and test a comprehensive hierarchical model of the interrelationships among five higher order marketing constructs (service quality, customer satisfaction, perceived value, restaurant image and behavioural intentions) for moderate upscale restaurants in Malaysia. A third order conceptualisation of service quality is also included in the empirical analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were analysed using exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis and structural equations.

Findings

Service quality, customer satisfaction and restaurant image all have a strong, positive impact on the behavioural intentions of moderate upscale restaurant patrons. Service quality, perceived value and restaurant image are also important determinants of customer satisfaction. Behavioural intentions to re-patronise a restaurant and recommend it to friends are influenced more strongly by restaurant image than by customer satisfaction. Three primary dimensions and ten pertaining sub-dimensions are modelled in the third order conceptualisation of service quality. The primary and sub-dimensions also vary in importance amongst the customers in the sampling frame.

Originality/value

This is the first empirical research that develops and tests a comprehensive hierarchical model for moderate upscale restaurants to provide a complete and integrative analysis of a service setting. The interrelationships among service quality, customer satisfaction, perceived value restaurant image and behavioural intentions are assessed. A third order conceptualisations of service quality is also included in the modelling framework.
Research output on terrorism by India and Pakistan: a bibliometric study
Authors: Loan Fayaz Ahmad , Shah Refhat-un-nisa
Published: April 2018

Purpose

This study aims to explore the scholarly literature published on “Terrorism” by India and Pakistan and has an in-depth bibliometric analysis of its various facets.

Design/methodology/approach

Data for the study were harvested from the “Web of Science” one of the widely used and trusted indexing and abstracting source used by research scholars all over the world. The search was confined to the literature published on “Terrorism” by India and Pakistan. A total of 125 results were retrieved and out of them 105 were found relevant. The data were later analyzed on different parameters.

Findings

India and Pakistan have started to conduct and publish research on “Terrorism” since 1990. However, only five articles were published till 2000. Presently, out of total 105 publications, India contributed 57 (54 per cent) and Pakistan contributed 48 (46 per cent) articles on Terrorism. Majority of the articles (93 per cent) were contributed by the individual researchers without any financial support from the funding agencies. The authorship pattern of the articles revealed that 40.95 per cent (43) articles were contributed by single author, whereas 59.05 per cent (62) were authored in collaboration. In terms of research collaboration, Pakistani authors collaborated with authors of six nations of the world, whereas Indian authors collaborated only with researchers of three countries. Most of the research articles were published from the authors affiliated with universities and other higher educational institutions (64.76 per cent), followed by colleges (12.38 per cent) and other government departments. Most of the articles were published during last five years from 2011-2015 (52.38 per cent), followed by 2006-2010 (28.57 per cent). These articles were published in more than 80 journals and the majority were published from England (36, 34.29 per cent) followed by United States of America (26, 24.76 per cent) and Netherlands (13, 12.38 per cent) simultaneously.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of the study need to be cautioned as the data were harvested from “Web of Science” only.

Practical implications

The paper is useful for politicians, defense ministries, academicians, researchers and many other interested agencies such as human rights organizations or activists.

Originality/value

This is the first paper providing information on research output of India and Pakistan on Terrorism and will serve as bed rock for future research in the field.
Social media as a vehicle for user engagement with local history
Authors: Hood Caroline , Reid Peter
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine issues associated with user engagement on social media with local history in the North East of Scotland and to focus on a case study of the Buckie and District Fishing Heritage Society, a small but very successful and professionally-run community-based local heritage organisation.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative approach using photo elicitation on social media was deployed in conjunction with analysis of the user interactions and the reach insights provided by Facebook to the page manager. Additionally, a focus group was used.

Findings

The research, although focussed on an individual case study, offers significant lessons which are more widely applicable in the local history and cultural heritage social media domain. Key aspects include user engagement and how digital storytelling can assist in the documentation of local communities ultimately contributing to local history research and the broader cultural memory. The significance of the image and the photo elicitation methodology is also explored.

Social implications

The research demonstrates new opportunities for engaging users and displaying historical content that can be successfully exploited by community heritage organisations. These are themes which will be developed within the paper. The research also demonstrates the value of photo elicitation in both historical and wider information science fields as a means of obtaining in-depth quality engagement and interaction with users and communities.

Originality/value

The research explored the underutilised method of photo elicitation in a local history context with a community possessed of a strong sense of local identity. In addition to exploring the benefits of this method, it presents transferable lessons for how small, community-based history and heritage organisation can engage effectively with their audience.
Diffusion of open source integrated library systems in academic libraries in Africa
Authors: Ponelis Shana Rachel , Adoma Philliam
Published: April 2018

Purpose

Libraries globally automate their operations and services using integrated library systems (ILS) to increase operational efficiency and meet the ever-evolving demands of their users. Open source ILS (OS ILS) has become more popular globally. The purpose of this paper is to better understand the diffusion of OS ILS in academic libraries in Uganda.

Design/methodology/approach

Rogers’ diffusion of innovation (DoI) supplemented by the fit-viability theory was used as a theoretical framework. A questionnaire was developed based on extant literature and distributed electronically to representative members of a Ugandan university library association.

Findings

The diffusion of OS ILS in Ugandan academic libraries approximates the S-curve expected based on DoI. Ugandan academic libraries are adopting OS ILS for more flexibility to meet changing needs at what is perceived as an affordable cost but not all are fully satisfied. Koha is the most adopted OS ILS and is also being considered by all libraries without any ILS or a proprietary ILS. The information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure, organizational procurement policies and national procurement legislation, human resource capacity and limited finances are barriers to diffusion. The total cost of ownership and technical skills required are of particular concern for OS ILS.

Research limitations/implications

The research was limited to a single African country and the recommendations may not be transferable to other African countries. Future research can expand the survey, the countries studied and/or address the methodological limitations of this study.

Practical implications

When embarking upon library automation using OS ILS or migrating to an OS ILS solution libraries should consider their ICT infrastructure, local support community, available training and be realistic about the costs. Local library associations should provide guidance on OS ILS selection, ongoing training, and opportunities for knowledge sharing. LIS schools should consider expanding their curriculum to include library automation and, in Uganda incorporate training on Koha as OS ILS. Libraries and library associations should advocate to reduce restrictive organizational procurement policies and national procurement legislation.

Originality/value

Studies on country-level diffusion of ILS are comparatively few, particularly in African countries. This is the first country-level study of OS ILS diffusion in Uganda. This study can positively impact future patterns of diffusion for optimal deployment of OS ILS software by informing academic libraries, university management, library association, LIS schools, and policymakers in Uganda and across the African continent, and encouraging academics and researchers to teach and study library automation using OS ILS.
Nutritive value andtransfatty acid content of fast foods in Qena city, Egypt
Authors: Sadek Mustafa Abdel-samie , Daoud Jehan Ragab , Ahmed Hussein Youssef , Mosaad Gamal Mohamed
Published: April 2018

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the nutrient composition and cholesterol content of most popular fast foods sold in Qena city, Egypt with reference to theirtransfatty acids contents.

Design/methodology/approach

Total 80 samples of fast foods were collected from various fast food restaurants in Qena city, Egypt. The samples were investigated for their nutritive quality by measuring moisture, protein, fat, ash, carbohydrate and energy content as described by the association of analytical chemists. The cholesterol content was determined using a spectrophotometer, whiletransfatty acids were analyzed by gas chromatography using standard methods.

Findings

The study revealed a wide variation in the composition and nutritive value. On a fresh weight basis, moisture, protein, fat, carbohydrate and ash ranged from 45.9-55.0 (P< 0.001), 15.0-22.3 (P< 0.001), 13.1-15.7 (P= 0.034), 6.0-16.2 (P< 0.001) and 2.2-3.5 (P< 0.001), %w/w, respectively. The fast foods were very energy dense with calorie content varying from 236.5-281.1 (P< 0.001), Kcal/100 g. The mean values of cholesterol were between 15-17 mg/100 g (P= 0.398). The findings showed that fast foods had high totaltransfatty acids content exceeding the Danish legal limit of 2 g/100 g of fat being in the range of 3.5 to 11.3 g per 100 g fat (P= 0.379). Elaidic acid is the predominant trans-isomer in industrially producedtransfatty acids. The concentrations of elaidic acid were high in all samples examined (P= 0.942).

Originality/value

This study has established the fact that fast foods are associated with high total energy intake, high intake of fat, trans fat and a higher proportion of calories being derived from total fat and trans-fat. Therefore, it is recommended to limit the intake of fast food.
A semiotic analysis on cultural meanings of eating horsemeat
Authors: Leipämaa-Leskinen Hanna , Syrjälä Henna , Jaskari Minna-Maarit
Published: April 2018

Purpose

Drawing on food consumption research and human-animal studies, this paper aims to explore how the meanings related to a living horse may be transferred to those of horsemeat. This is accomplished by constructing a nuanced understanding of how different semantic meaning categories of accepting/avoiding consuming horsemeat relate to each other.

Design/methodology/approach

The current data are collected from various sources of media discussions, including online news, online discussion forums, blog postings and printed articles, generated in Finland after the year 2013. The data are analysed applying Greimas’ (1987) semiotic square to open up the semantic meaning categories appearing in the media discussions.

Findings

The semiotic square shows that the meanings of horsemeat arise between the binary oppositions of human-like and animal-like. In this structure, the category of human-like makes eating horsemeat impossible, whereas the category of animal-like makes horsemeat good to eat. The main categories are completed and contrasted by the categories of not human-like and not animal-like. They represent horsemeat as an acceptable food, but only after certain justifications.

Research limitations/implications

The data are based on Finnish media texts, and therefore, the identified categories are interpreted in this specific cultural context.

Originality/value

The current semiotic analysis adds to the existing food consumption research by shedding light on the cultural barriers that make something edible or inedible. By so doing, the findings present a more nuanced and dynamic understanding of the horse as a special kind of meat animal and the justifications for eating horsemeat. Consequently, the findings offer new insights concerning changing food consumption behaviours into a more sustainable direction, pointing out the hidden meanings that influence this process.
Islamic finance and herding behavior: an application to Gulf Islamic stock markets
Authors: Medhioub Imed , Chaffai Mustapha
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the herding behavior in GCC Islamic stock markets.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors followed the methodology developed by Chiang and Zheng (2010) to test herding behavior. Cross-sectional tests have been considered in this paper. The authors use both OLS and GARCH estimations to examine herding behavior by using a sample of GCC Islamic stock markets.

Findings

By applying monthly data for the period between January 2006 and February 2016 for five Islamic GCC stock returns (Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and UAE), results suggest a significant evidence of herd behavior in Saudi and Qatari Islamic stock markets only. When the authors take into account the existence of asymmetry in herd behavior between down- and up-market periods, evidence of herding behavior during down market periods in the case of Qatar and Saudi Arabia was found. In addition, the authors found that Kuwaiti and Emirates Islamic stock markets herd with the local conventional stock market, showing the interdependencies between Islamic and conventional markets.

Research limitations/implications

In this paper, the authors found an absence of herding behavior in some Islamic stock markets (Bahrain, Kuwait and Emirates). This is not the result of Shariah guidelines in these Islamic markets, but this is mainly due to the weak oscillations of returns which are very close to zero. In our future research, the authors could apply daily data and compare the results to those obtained in this paper by using monthly data.

Originality/value

This paper provides a practical framework in order to analyze the herding behavior concept for GCC Islamic stock markets. Its originality consists of linking the herding behavior to ethics and morality to verify whether the properties and guidelines of Islam are respected in Islamic stock markets. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no other paper has treated the case of herding behavior in Islamic stock markets and taking into account the possible influence of the conventional market on the Islamic stock market that may impact herding behavior.
Phorced to phish: benefits of a phishing equilibrium
Authors: D’Qrill Nemo , Hendricks Vincent F.
Published: April 2018

Purpose

A salesman calls up to offer you a “much” better phone plan. Before you know, you have changed to this new plan, which not only exceeds your needs, but also “procures” a six-month free subscription to an online music service. You needed neither and pay more: you have just been “phished” as Akerlof and Shiller would say in their recent book Phishing for Phools. Furthermore, their phishing equilibrium dictates that if your company does not phish others will, so you phish to survive. The purpose of this paper is to present a formal analysis of phishing and phishing equilibria with surprising potential benefits to consumers rather than scamsters.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides a conceptual/formal (game theoretical) analysis of phishing in markets.

Findings

Being an honest trader may actually, under certain circumstances, be an advantage in a market contrary to Akerlof and Shiller’s thesis Phishing for Phools.

Research limitations/implications

Phishing for Phools may have its limitations when viewed from an evolutionary game-theoretical perspective which has positive implications for behavioral finance and significance of a phishing equilibrium in markets populated by honest as well as dishonest traders.

Practical implications

The paper shows that Phishing for Phools may not always be a winning strategy contrary to many current business schemes from phone plans to selling pharmaceutical products.

Social implications

The paper reveals important differences between honesty, dishonesty, and trust between traders in a market.

Originality/value

This paper provides, to the authors’ knowledge, the first in-depth formal and conceptual analyses of phishing and phishing equilibria.
Preservice teachers’ visions of themselves: powerful teachers or powerful social studies teachers?
Authors: Crowe Alicia R. , Mooney Evan , Hawley Todd S.
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to share findings from research on preservice social studies teachers’ visions of themselves as they prepare to enter their student teaching experience.

Design/methodology/approach

The guiding research question for this study asked, “How do preservice social studies teachers articulate their visions of themselves as powerful social studies teachers just before their student teaching experience?”

Findings

The authors found that their visions of themselves emphasized aspects of powerful teaching, yet lacked explicit and important connections to social studies teaching. In their discussion and conclusions, they share the implications of these findings for their social studies teacher education program and other social studies education programs generally.

Originality/value

The authors contend that while powerful teaching is important, without an emphasis on powerful social studies teaching, they may struggle to achieve social studies teaching goals and purposes, such as teaching for democratic living, the common good, or citizenship. The distinction between powerful teaching and powerful social studies teaching, the authors believe, should be of concern for social studies teacher educators interested in positioning student teachers to create classroom spaces focused on the common good, national and global societies, or the deepening of democracy.
Examining teachers’ development and implementation of compelling questions
Authors: Mueller Rebecca G.W.
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The College, Career, and Civic Life Framework and recently revised social studies standards in a number of states have placed renewed emphasis on inquiry-based instruction rooted in rigorous and relevant questions, which necessitates a better understanding of how teachers develop questions capable of meeting the expectations set forth in these documents. The purpose of this paper is to examine teachers’ question-development processes and the impact of question development and implementation on their understanding of compelling questions.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative study examined how six high school civics teachers from a single Kentucky school district defined and developed compelling questions. Following recommendations for in-depth phenomenological interviews, this study implemented a three-interview sequence, each of which included a verbal report component. Additional data were generated through teacher-completed Question Development Tasks and Question Evaluation Tasks.

Findings

The findings suggest that participants’ attempts to craft questions that balanced relevance and complexity led them to engage in a deliberate, reflective question-development process. Teachers’ understandings of compelling questions were shaped by their question-development experience; however, teachers who implemented their compelling questions emerged with a more nuanced understanding of their construction and a deeper commitment to their use.

Originality/value

Although focused on a small group of teachers, this study provides valuable insight into teachers’ conceptions of inquiry, which may strengthen the supports teacher educators and administrators provide to those attempting to implement inquiry in their classrooms.
Mountain Chef: How One Man Lost His Groceries, Changed His Plans…
Authors: Bestwick Margaret Angel
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper (i.e. Mountain Chef: How One Man Lost His Groceries, Changed His Plans, and Helped Cook Up the National Park Service; Pimentel, 2016) is to detail a camping trip during which Tie Sing, a Chef, worked with Stephen Mather, a millionaire concerned about conserving national resources, to convince a group of influential Americans to create a National Park Service.

Design/methodology/approach

This lesson plan, based in the National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) C3 Framework, encourages third grade students to investigate the geography of the camping area in what is now Sequoia National Park. Students also analyze and determine whether or not the National Park Service is a good idea. Students move through four stages of inquiry in the C3 Framework as guided by their teacher.

Findings

During Dimension 1, students determine the types of sources that will help them answer the inquiry questions. Next in Dimension 2, students are engaged in a read-aloud of Mountain Chef while learning how to gather information from the text and record evidence in an I-Chart through teacher modeling (Hoffman, 1992). Students use a text set in Dimension 3 to gather evidence in response to inquiry questions. The lesson concludes in Dimension 4 with students using research evidence to create a WPA-like poster of the camping area and students communicating ideas via social media.

Practical implications

Think-aloud – “Students who are exposed to think-aloud outperform their peers who do not receive the same instruction on measures of reading comprehension” (Ness, 2018). The teacher implements the think-aloud strategy within Dimension 2 of the lesson plan. Think-aloud is a metacognitive strategy that requires a teacher to verbalize thinking processes to scaffold students to perform a learning task on his or her own later. The portions of text that were selected for think-aloud were identified as “juicy stopping points,” points that may pose a challenge for students, or points where there were comprehension opportunities related to inquiry questions. Teachers may adjust this lesson to increase or decrease scaffolding through think-aloud at their professional discretion.

Originality/value

Mountain Chef was selected as the 2017 winner of the Carter Woodson Book Award in the Elementary category. This lesson plan was presented at the NCSS 2017 annual conference at the Carter Woodson and Notable Tradebooks: Engaging Early Grade Lesson Plans session.
Estimating Lag to Peak between Rainfall and Peak Streamflow with a Mixed‐Effects Model
Authors: Lombard Pamela J. , Holtschlag David J.
Published: April 2018

We test the use of a mixed‐effects model for estimating lag to peak for small basins in Maine (drainage areas from 0.8 to 78 km2). Lag to peak is defined as the time between the center of volume of the excess rainfall during a storm event and the resulting peak streamflow. A mixed‐effects model allows for multiple observations at sites without violating model assumptions inherent in traditional ordinary least squares models, which assume each observation is independent. The mixed model includes basin drainage area and maximum 15‐min rainfall depth for individual storms as explanatory features. Based on a remove‐one‐site cross‐validation analysis, the prediction errors of this model ranged from −42% to +73%. The mixed model substantially outperformed three published models for lag to peak and one published model for centroid lag for estimating lag to peak for small basins in Maine. Lag to peak estimates are a key input to rainfall–runoff models used to design hydraulic infrastructure. The improved accuracy and consistency with model assumptions indicates that mixed models may provide increased data utilization that could enhance models and estimates of lag to peak in other regions.
Parental Divorce and Family History of Alcohol Disorder: Associations with Young Adults’ Alcohol Problems, Marijuana Use, and Interpersonal Relations
Authors: Windle Michael , Windle Rebecca C.
Published: April 2018

Background

This study used prospective data from 706 young adults to evaluate the impact of parental divorce and family history of alcoholism (FH+) on the outcomes of offspring alcohol problems, marijuana use, and interpersonal relationships with parents.

Methods

Assessments of parental divorce were based on parent reports, and young adult outcomes were collected from an offspring cohort (n = 706; X age = 33.25 years; females = 53%) via computer‐based individual interviews (CAPI and ACASI). Family history of alcohol disorders for parents was based on assessments by mothers, fathers, and young adults.

Results

Parental divorce significantly predicted marijuana use but not alcohol problems. Maternal, but not paternal, alcoholism also significantly predicted marijuana use. Two‐way interactions indicated that sex moderated several of the relationships. For example, among those with divorced parents, daughters reported higher levels of conflict with fathers than sons, and sons reported lower levels of maternal support than daughters. Paternal alcoholism was also associated with higher levels of alcohol problems among sons relative to daughters. There was also a significant 2‐way interaction between divorce status and maternal alcoholism indicating that young adults who experienced both maternal alcoholism and parental divorce had the highest levels of marijuana use.

Conclusions

These findings highlight the role that parental divorce and FH+ have on alcohol problems, marijuana use, and interpersonal relationships in young adulthood, and how sex may moderate some of these more nuanced relationships.
Adjunctive probiotic microorganisms to prevent rehospitalization in patients with acute mania: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Dickerson Faith , Adamos Maria , Katsafanas Emily , Khushalani Sunil , Origoni Andrea , Savage Christina , Schweinfurth Lucy , Stallings Cassie , Sweeney Kevin , Goga Joshana , Yolken Robert H
Published: April 2018

Objective

Immunological abnormalities play a role in the pathophysiology of mania and have been associated with relapse. Probiotic organisms such as Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria modulate inflammation in humans and animal models. The trial examined whether the administration of probiotic organisms prevents psychiatric rehospitalizations in patients recently discharged following hospitalization for mania.

Methods

Patients hospitalized for mania (N = 66) were randomized after discharge to receive 24 weeks of adjunctive probiotics (Lactobacillus rhamnosus strain GG and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis strain Bb12) or adjunctive placebo in a parallel two‐group design format. The effect of treatment group on the risk of rehospitalization was calculated using Cox regression models. The modulating effect of systemic inflammation was measured employing an inflammation score based on immunoglobulin levels directed at previously defined antigens.

Results

During the 24‐week observation period there were a total of 24 rehospitalizations in the 33 individuals who received placebo and eight rehospitalizations in the 33 individuals who received the probiotics (z = 2.63, P = .009). Hazard functions indicated that the administration of the probiotics was associated with a significant advantage in time to all psychiatric rehospitalizations (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.26, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.10, .69; P = .007). Probiotic treatment also resulted in fewer days rehospitalized (mean 8.3 vs 2.8 days for placebo and probiotic treatment, respectively; χ2 = 5.17, P = .017). The effect of the probiotic treatment on the prevention of rehospitalization was increased in individuals with elevated levels of systemic inflammation at baseline.

Conclusion

Probiotic supplementation is associated with a lower rate of rehospitalization in patients who have been recently discharged following hospitalization for mania.
WATER II (80–150 mL) procedural outcomes
Authors: Desai Mihir , Bidair Mo , Bhojani Naeem , Trainer Andrew , Arther Andrew , Kramolowsky Eugene , Doumanian Leo , Elterman Dean , Kaufman Ronald P. , Lingeman James , Krambeck Amy , Eure Gregg , Badlani Gopal , Plante Mark , Uchio Edward , Gin Greg , Goldenberg Larry , Paterson Ryan , So Alan , Humphreys Mitch , Roehrborn Claus , Kaplan Steven , Motola Jay , Zorn Kevin C.
Published: April 2018

Objectives

To present early safety and feasibility data from a multicentre prospective study (WATER II) of aquablation in the treatment of symptomatic men with large‐volume benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Methods

Between September and December 2017, 101 men with moderate‐to‐severe BPH symptoms and prostate volume of 80–150 mL underwent aquablation in a prospective multicentre international clinical trial. Baseline demographics and standardized postoperative management variables were carefully recorded in a central independently monitored database. Surgeons answered analogue scale questionnaires on intra‐operative technical factors and postoperative management. Adverse events up to 1 month were adjudicated by an independent clinical events committee.

Results

The mean (range) prostate volume was 107 (80–150) mL. The mean (range) operating time was 37 (15–97) min and aquablation resection time was 8 (3–15) min. Adequate adenoma resection was achieved with a single pass in 34 patients and with additional passes in 67 patients (mean 1.8 treatment passes), all in a single operating session. Haemostasis was achieved using either a Foley balloon catheter placed in the bladder under traction (n = 98, mean duration 18 h) or direct tamponade using a balloon inflated in the prostate fossa (n = 3, mean duration 15 h). No patient required electrocautery for haemostasis at the time of the primary procedure. The mean length of stay after the procedure was 1.6 days (range same day to 6 days). The Clavien–Dindo grade ≥2 event rate observed at 1 month was 29.7%. Bleeding complications were recorded in 10 patients (9.9%) during the index procedure hospitalization prior to discharge, and included six (5.9%) peri‐operative transfusions.

Conclusions

Aquablation is feasible and safe in treating men with men with large prostates (80–150 mL). The 6‐month efficacy data are being accrued and will be presented in future publications (ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT03123250).
Migrant worker experiences in Atlantic Canadian fish processing plants
Authors: Marschke Melissa , Kehoe Courtney , Vandergeest Peter
Published: April 2018

Low‐skilled migrant workers provide an important labour source in Atlantic Canada's seafood industry. This research unpacks the experiences of 22 workers from Thailand and the Philippines working in one Atlantic Canadian seafood processing company. We pay particular attention to migration routes, labour conditions, and worker mobility, along with worker reflections on their experiences landing a Canadian job. We also consider the perceptions of migrant workers among company staff. We argue that despite the various unfreedoms associated with migrant worker programs, migrant workers in this particular facility have demonstrated agency in negotiating the program to their advantages. The success of the workers, however, is contingent on a conjuncture of elements that are not necessarily found elsewhere in the seafood processing industry. Worker experiences, both with other Canadian employers and elsewhere, offer a stark contrast to their current situation: migrant workers often experience significant unfreedoms to gain relatively free working conditions.
Accuracy of the match between cone beam computed tomography and model scan data in template‐guided implant planning: A prospective controlled clinical study
Authors: Schnutenhaus Sigmar , Gröller Sebastian , Luthardt Ralph G. , Rudolph Heike
Published: April 2018

Background

Template‐guided implant placement is a method for optimal implant positioning from a prosthetic and surgical viewpoint. The treatment planning is based on three‐dimensional X‐ray data and model scan data, as well as on prosthetic planning (set‐up). These data are matched (superimposed) with the aid of an X‐ray template or by manual matching without special referencing.

Purpose

The objective of this prospective controlled clinical study was to determine and compare the accuracy of the match with and without an additional X‐ray template.

Materials and Methods

The DICOM data of the cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) were converted into surface data sets and then superimposed on model scan data using three different methods (manually, based on an X‐ray template, or semi‐automatically with computer assistance). The mean deviations between these results of these matching methods were investigated.

Results

The procedures achieved a matching accuracy of 0.2 mm on average. This corresponds to the resolution of the CBCT (0.2 voxels). Further studies are necessary to verify the procedure even for patients with few (0‐4) residual teeth.

Conclusion

In the presence of a sufficient number of residual teeth, the manual matching of model scan data with CBCT data is sufficiently accurate for implant planning and template‐guided implementation. The results of the present study suggest that X‐ray templates can be dispensed with saving the patient a substantial amount of time and money.
Influence of the width of keratinized tissue on the development and resolution of experimental peri‐implant mucositis lesions in humans
Authors: Schwarz Frank , Becker Jürgen , Civale Sara , Sahin Didem , Iglhaut Theresa , Iglhaut Gerhard
Published: April 2018

Objectives

To analyze the influence of the width of keratinized mucosa (KM) on the development and resolution of experimental peri‐implant mucositis lesions at abutments with different microstructures in humans.

Material and methods

In a randomized, controlled study, a total of 28 patients had received 28 target implants exhibiting a KM ≥2 mm. These were randomly connected with either partially microgrooved‐ (test) (n = 15) or machined (control) (n = 13) healing abutments. The study protocol included a wound healing period (WH) following implant placement (12 weeks), a plaque exposure phase (EP) of 21 days (EPd21) and a resolution phase (RP) including visits at 2, 4, and 16 weeks (RPw2; RPw4; RPw16) following plaque removal. Linear regression analyses were used to analyze the relationship between the width of KM and clinical outcomes (i.e., modified plaque index [mPI], modified gingival index [mGI], bleeding on probing [BOP], and probing depth [PD]).

Results

Mean and median KM values (end of WH) were 5.9 ± 2.6 and 5.0 mm (min: 2 mm; max: 10 mm; interquartile range: 5 mm) at test‐ and 5.5 ± 2.6 and 4.0 mm (min: 3 mm; max: 11 mm interquartile range: 4 mm) at control abutments. The linear regression analysis revealed significant correlations between the width of KM and mPI (test: RPw2; control: RPw16), mGI (test: RPw16), BOP (both: RPw16), and PD (test: RPw16; control: EPd21, RPw2, RPw4, RPw16) scores.

Conclusion

The width of KM (≥2 mm) had some effects on the development (i.e., at 21 days) and resolution of experimental peri‐implant mucositis lesions at both abutment types.
Altered functional connectivity strength and its correlations with cognitive function in subjects with ultra‐high risk for psychosis at rest
Authors: Li Ran‐Ran , Lyu Hai‐Long , Liu Feng , Lian Nan , Wu Ren‐Rong , Zhao Jing‐Ping , Guo Wen‐Bin
Published: April 2018

Aims

Evidence of altered structural and functional connectivity in the frontal‐occipital network is associated with cognitive deficits in patients with schizophrenia. However, the altered patterns of functional connectivity strength (FCS) in individuals with ultra‐high risk (UHR) for psychosis remain unknown. In this study, whole‐brain FCS was assessed to examine the altered patterns of FCS in UHR subjects.

Methods

A total of 34 UHR subjects and 37 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls were enrolled to undergo resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging. The imaging data were analyzed using the graph theory method.

Results

Compared with healthy controls, UHR subjects showed significantly decreased FCS in the left middle frontal gyrus and significantly increased FCS in the left calcarine cortex. The FCS values in the left middle frontal gyrus were positively correlated to the scores of the Brief Assessments of Cognitionin Schizophrenia Symbol Coding Test (r = 0.366, P = 0.033) in the UHR subjects. A negative correlation was found between the FCS values in the left calcarine cortex and the scores of the Stroop color‐naming test (r = −0.475, P = 0.016) in the UHR subjects. A combination of the FCS values in the 2 brain areas showed an accuracy of 87.32%, a sensitivity of 73.53%, and a specificity of 100% for distinguishing UHR subjects from healthy controls.

Conclusions

Significantly altered FCS in the frontal‐occipital network is observed in the UHR subjects. Furthermore, decreased FCS in the left middle frontal gyrus and increased FCS in the left calcarine have significant correlations with the cognitive measures of the UHR subjects and thus improve our understanding of the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of schizophrenia. Moreover, a combination of the FCS values in the 2 brain areas can serve as a potential image marker to distinguish UHR subjects from healthy controls.
Iran's Shortsighted Policies in Iraq: Between Inflaming and Containing of Radical Sunni Islam: 2003–2015
Authors: Cohen Ronen A.
Published: April 2018

The main goal of the 2003 war with Iraq of the coalition forces led by the United States was to topple Saddam Hussein's regime and establish a new political system that would adopt democratic practices. Iran, a country that deemed Saddam's regime to be a threat, considered this war to be very helpful in many ways — first because it put an end to Clinton's “dual containment” approach and would thus help Iran to become a regional superpower at Iraq's expense. Second, a war with Iraq could put an end to the decades of oppression of the Shi'a community in Iraq.

This article argues that Iran's involvement in Iraq's internal affairs created chaos in Iraq and contributed to the sectarian conflict against Sunni terror groups, notably the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), also known by the Arabic name Daesh, a terror group with the most extreme form of Sunni Radical Islam ever known. The sectarian conflict that resulted from the above is now taking place between the Sunnis and the Shi'a of both Persian and Arab backgrounds and this clash could not have become as radical as it is without Iran's aggressive foreign policy. It should, however, be noted that Iran is not the sole player in the country and therefore its part in inflaming sectarian conflicts should be viewed through a realistic prism that allows other forces — domestic and foreign — to be seen as having influenced the events for their benefit.
Incremental value of left atrial mechanical dispersion over CHA2DS2‐VASc score in predicting risk of thrombus formation
Authors: Kupczynska Karolina , Michalski Blazej W. , Miskowiec Dawid , Kasprzak Jaroslaw D. , Szymczyk Ewa , Wejner−Mik Paulina , Lipiec Piotr
Published: April 2018

Purpose

To assess the potential ability of two‐dimensional speckle tracking analysis (STE) during atrial fibrillation (AF) to identify patients with LA appendage thrombi (LAAT).

Methods

This study involved 93 patients with AF (39% female, 67.1 ± 9.5 years) who were referred for a clinical indication for transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). TEE revealed LAAT in 39 (42%) patients. We analyzed standard parameters of the left ventricle (LV) and LA in transthoracic echocardiography. Using STE, we assessed LV global longitudinal strain (LVGLS), peak atrial longitudinal strain (PALS), and intra‐atrial asynchrony. The PALS was calculated using the global strain curve (GPALS) and as the mean of peaks derived from segmental strain curves (MPALS).

Results

Patients were comparable with regard to the clinical data. A subgroup with LAAT had lower LV ejection fraction (LVEF) and a lower absolute value of the LVGLS, as well as greater impairment in the LA standard parameters, PALS, and asynchrony. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed that the LVEF of 30% (P < .001), the LVGLS of −7% (P < .0001), the GPALS of 11% (P < .005), and the LA asynchrony of 22% (P < .01) were the optimal cutoff values for distinguishing both subgroups. LA asynchrony, LVEF, and LVGLS were independently associated with the presence of LAAT in multivariate analyses, and PALS had additional significance over the CHA2DS2‐VASc score.

Conclusions

Left ventricular systolic dysfunction characterized by both LVEF and LVGLS is an independent factor for LAAT. LA asynchrony provides additional diagnostic value for discriminating between patients with and without LAAT.