bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of different brine water salinity on mechanical properties of fly ash-based geopolymer cement
Authors: Ridha Syahrir , Abd Hamid Afif Izwan , Che Ku Mazuan Che Ku Afiza Hanim
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the mechanical properties changing of geopolymer cement under different brine salinity.

Design/methodology/approach

Geopolymer Cement of Class F Fly Ash and Class G Cement slurries were prepared according to API RP 10B. The optimum alkaline activator/cement and water/cement ratio of 0.44 was used for geopolymer and Class G cement samples, respectively. The alkaline activator was prepared by mixing the proportion of Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) solutions of 8 M and Sodium Silicate (Na2SiO3) using ratio of 1:2.5 by weight. The slurries were cured for 24 hours at 130oC and 3,000 psi in HPHT Curing Chamber followed by coring process. Both cement sample were immersed in brine water salinity up to 28 days with different brine salinity up to 30 per cent of NaCl. The mechanical properties were investigated using OYO Sonic Viewer-SX and Uniaxial Compressive Strength. The surfaces of the cement samples were extracted for Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and EDS tests to evaluate the morphology and chemical compositions of the cured samples.

Findings

The paper shows that geopolymer samples experiences strength reduction in brine water but the reduction rate of geopolymer is about half of the Ordinary Portland cement based oil well cement. The finding was also verified by SEM and EDS result.

Originality/value

This paper investigates the mechanical property changes of emerging geopolymer cement due to different water salinity. The results provide potential application of geopolymer cement for oil well cementing.
Effect of two-phase flow on transmission characteristics of oil film between friction pair
Authors: Chen Haibin , Zhu Jie , Xie Fangwei , Guo Xinjian , Zheng Xudong
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to use the viscosity of fluid to transmit power known as the hydro-viscous drive (HVD) to research the effect of two-phase flow on transmission characteristics.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, a 3D computational model of oil film between friction pair was built to study the transmission characteristics of a two-phase oil film, and the distribution contours of pressure and temperature of oil film were investigated using the computational fluid dynamics technology.

Findings

The finding of the paper suggests that the distribution law of pressure and temperature of two-phase oil film is almost linear along the radial direction. However, since the physical phenomena near the outlet of the oil film are entirely different, there exists fluctuation. Meanwhile, the volume fraction of air was obtained at different rotation speeds, and the maximum value is 10.55 percent. Compared to the single-phase oil film, the torque transferred by the oil film is not linear with the rotation speed, its value decreases gradually.

Originality/value

This paper’s conclusions are very important for the study of HVD and its applications, which provide a new idea to further study the mechanism of oil film transmission and its cavitation. The development of fluid viscous speed clutch is dedicated to a large industrial fan and water pump speed regulation and energy saving. With the successful application of the technology, it will have more wide applications in different fields, such as, in steel, water, petrochemical, power plant of slag pump and exhaust fan.
Regulating virtual currencies – the challenges of applying fiat currency laws to digital technology services
Authors: Naheem Mohammed Ahmad
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to consider the recent (Dec`15) introduction of the Bitlicensing rules in New York and consider from a banking perspective how this will impact on their own risk assessment processes. The paper also outlines the challenges of applying financial regulation to companies that have an area of expertise and business that is more aligned to software development, rather than financial service provision.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is a viewpoint paper, which offers a critical discussion on the FATF guidelines on virtual currencies. The paper compares developments that are currently occurring within the virtual currency sector in particularly the new Bitlicensing process in New York State and discusses the implications to the banking sector on risk assessment processes for virtual currency transactions.

Findings

This paper will benefit the banking and regulation industries as well as economic and banking academics and anyone with an interest in virtual and digital currency technology.

Originality/value

This paper is unique in that it examines the issue of virtual currency regulation from a banking perspective. It explains the virtual currency technology as a means to be enhancing banking risk assessment, for clients seeking to incorporate virtual currency transactions into their business. This paper impacts on the banking and regulatory sectors because it critically examines the current practice of over regulation and the impact that this has on alternative financial systems, such as digital and virtual currencies. The paper offers a theoretical framework as well as citing current practical reports of how regulation has already started to affect the financial services landscape. The impact of getting this wrong can lead to increased criminal activity, and this paper highlights how susceptible the financial sector is to this.
Police corruption: a comparison between China and India
Authors: Lee George Chak man
Published: March 2018

Purpose

There is no comparative research into the Chinese (PSB) police and the Indian police generally and none on police corruption in particular. This paper aims to show what police corruption and malpractices look like in China and India and offer up some suggestions as to why wide spread malpractices persists.

Design/methodology/approach

Horses’ mouth qualitative research is supported by primary public and police survey data.

Findings

There are many similarities in corruption “tricks of the trade” in both the countries, as well as in the reasons for its persistence. However, petty police corruption is more pervasive and less subtle in India. But both the forces suffer from politicization of policing, criminalization of politics, culture of tolerance towards substantive justice over procedural justice and master/servant attitude towards the public. In China, the police have administrative powers beyond criminal legislation, and Indian corruption is underscored by the culture of “Jugaad”.

Research limitations/implications

This is largely a qualitative research, so the usual arguments regarding limitations on its generalization applies. However, the insights in this article may provide some understanding of this under-researched topic and may stimulate further research in this field. It may also offer pointers to potential solutions for practitioners and policymakers.

Practical implications

By providing data on what corruption looks like and why it persists, policymakers can use the findings of this study to develop measures to address them. In so doing they would create a police service in India and China that is less prone to corruption and misconduct, thereby increasing public trust in these institutions.

Social implications

Peace and security is a prerequisite condition for economic and social modernization through the rule of law. Reform of the police is a critical success factor in this process. Therefore, by reforming the police, India and China stand a better chance of eradicating poverty and reducing inequality.

Originality/value

There is little in the way of research into the Chinese Police and none into Chinese police corruption. There is also no comparative study of the Chinese and Indian police generally and none on police corruption in particular.
Borderless crimes and digital forensic: Nigerian perspectives
Authors: Arewa Adebisi
Published: March 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to determine the extent to which the myriad of cybercrimes is within the purview of extant Nigerian laws against the backdrop of the modicum of legal and institutional mechanisms available at international law for combating cybercrimes.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is library based. It relies on secondary data generated by the variegated multilateral agencies, law reports of international and municipal tribunals, relevant books, journals, monographs policy papers and so forth as the basis of analysis.

Findings

Findings suggest that cybercrimes are very difficult to unravel because their traces are imperceptible and require highly specialised skills and digital protocols to find, store and save them for evidential purposes. Such gathered evidence are in the form of digital data stored in variegated hardware and software media, such as storage peripherals, electronic components, working memory, hard discs and external discs. The difficulty is how to identify, weigh for evidential value and capture the multiplicity of evidence unearthed in a digital forensic investigation. The foregoing underscores the digital forensic problematic which is engendered by the difficulties of contriving a thoroughgoing concept of digital evidence given the malleable nature of the variegated storage media.

Practical implications

This paper engenders considerable acquaintance of the entire sphere of digital crimes and cyber threats, which is contended with in the information epoch, and recommends both legal and institutional mechanisms to counter the clear, real and present danger, which digital crimes represent for the survival of human civilisation, sustainable economic growth and development.

Originality/value

This paper dwells on the infinite potentiality of deploying the instrumentality of national and international law to deter, control and prosecute the myriad of cybercrimes.
How hospital survey teams function
Authors: Boyd Alan , Ross Shilpa , Robertson Ruth , Walshe Kieran , Smithson Rachael
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to understand how inspection team members work together to conduct surveys of hospitals, the challenges teams may face and how these might be addressed.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were gathered through an evaluation of a new regulatory model for acute hospitals in England, implemented by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) during 2013-2014. The authors interviewed key stakeholders, observed inspections and surveyed and interviewed inspection team members and hospital staff. Common characteristics of temporary teams provided an analytical framework.

Findings

The temporary nature of the inspection teams hindered the conduct of some inspection activities, despite the presence of organisational citizenship behaviours. In a minority of sub-teams, there were tensions between CQC employed inspectors, healthcare professionals, lay people and CQC data analysts. Membership changes were infrequent and did not appear to inhibit team functioning, with members displaying high commitment. Although there were leadership authority ambiguities, these were not problematic. Existing processes of recruitment and selection, training and preparation and to some extent leadership, did not particularly lend themselves to addressing the challenges arising from the temporary nature of the teams.

Research limitations/implications

Conducting the research during the piloting of the new regulatory approach may have accentuated some challenges. There is scope for further research on inspection team leadership.

Practical implications

Issues may arise if inspection and accreditation agencies deploy temporary, heterogeneous survey teams.

Originality/value

This research is the first to illuminate the functioning of inspection survey teams by applying a temporary teams perspective.
Factors influencing firm’s local business environment in home country context
Authors: Nag Tirthankar , Chatterjee Chanchal
Published: March 2018

Purpose

Indian and Chinese businesses are slowly making advances in each other’s markets. The purpose of this study was to understand factors that influence the business environment of a country and how does it compare between India and China.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses firm-level survey data from the World Bank’s Enterprise Surveys. The study considered survey data for 2,700 Chinese firms and 9,281 Indian firms. Exploratory factor analysis and structural equation modeling were used to analyze the factors that drive the business environment in both countries and why differences appear.

Findings

The data set reveals different factor structures for India and China. Across both the countries, infrastructure support and governance play a major role in shaping the business landscape, though in the case of India, regulatory dynamics play a crucial role. The study concludes that these differences drive the basic difference in business environment across both countries.

Research limitations/implications

The study considers only the formal sector, and informal businesses have been left out because of paucity of data. The dynamics of informal business sector can be considered for future studies.

Practical implications

While making market entry or investment decisions globally, businesses can analyze country-specific environmental factors through this framework. As the study is based on the perceptions of businesses, policy-makers can also focus on these factors to attract businesses to specific countries or regions.

Originality/value

The study is an original research study. The study adds to the existing academic literature and is expected to help policy-makers and senior managers in focusing on specific aspects of business environment when developing policies or taking market entry decisions.
Person-organisation fit and turnover intention: the mediating role of work engagement
Authors: Memon Mumtaz Ali , Salleh Rohani , Nordin Shahrina M. , Cheah Jun-Hwa , Ting Hiram , Chuah Francis
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is twofold. First, it examines the impact of person-organisation fit (P-O fit) on work engagement (WE) and the impact of WE on turnover intention. Second, it examines the mediating role of WE between P-O fit and turnover intention.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional online survey design was used to collect data through snowball sampling procedure. In total, 422 oil and gas (O&G) professionals participated in this study. In total, 13 incomplete samples were excluded during initial screening. As a result, 409 samples were used for final data analysis. The partial least squares-structural equation modelling, using SmartPLS3.0, was performed to test the hypothesised model.

Findings

The results of the study revealed strong ties between P-O fit, WE, and turnover intention. Specifically, P-O fit was found to be a strong predictor of WE and WE is negatively related to employees’ turnover intention. Further, WE mediated the relationship between P-O fit and turnover intention.

Practical implications

The findings of this study suggest that O&G organisations must pay greater attention to P-O fit to increase employees’ level of engagement and decrease voluntary turnover rate. Overall, the findings provide pragmatic insights for human resource management practitioners and the relevant stakeholders.

Originality/value

To date, little attention has been devoted to understanding the mediating role of WE between P-O fit and turnover intention. The present study addresses this gap in the literature.
Factors influencing academic entrepreneurship: a case-based study
Authors: Davari Ali , Emami Amir , Ramadani Veland , Taherkhani Sahar
Published: March 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to identify factors that influence the outcomes of academic entrepreneurship at the University of Tehran.

Design/methodology/approach

The research questionnaires were randomly distributed, and 95 individuals, including professors and experts in the field of academic entrepreneurship at the University, answered the questions. The population was estimated to include 150 subjects; 100 questionnaires were distributed totally; and 95 questionnaires were finally collected.

Findings

The results obtained from the data analysis indicate that institutions (formal and informal) and organizational factors (resources and capabilities) have a significant impact on the success of academic entrepreneurship. In addition, the results from an effect size analysis revealed that capabilities and informal resources have the strongest impact on the academic entrepreneurship outcomes. Limitations and directions for future research are provided at the end of the study.

Originality/value

It is a pioneering work that identifies the factors that influence academic entrepreneurship outcomes at the University of Tehran in a specific context such as Iran. Guerrero and Urbano’s (2012) entrepreneurial university model, which is built on the theory of institutional economy (North, 1990) and the resource-based view (Barney, 1991), has been adapted as the theoretical framework.
Can the subaltern be seen? Photographic colonialism in service learning
Authors: Hernandez Kortney
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the unaddressed phenomenon of photographic colonialism using service learning to illustrate the way in which photos and visual imagery are allowed to go unchallenged within educational media and qualitative research.

Design/methodology/approach

This essay draws on Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak’s seminal essay to ask: “Can the subaltern be seen?” By so doing, it explores the manner in which photography produced from a Eurocentric gaze re-presents and speaks for the subaltern, particularly within the context of qualitative research and educational photos displayed in the colonizer’s image.

Findings

The colonizing impact of photographic methods also permits for the washing away of cultural, historical, and political responsibility for the plight faced by the subaltern.

Originality/value

This paper, moreover, seeks to challenge and disrupt the ways in which we accept, ignore, deny, and standby when photos of the subaltern are used to perpetuate the coloniality of power (Quijano, 2000), despite post-colonial claims.
Employment conditions and emerging labour movements of non‐regular workers in Japan
Authors: Ishii Tomoaki
Published: March 2018

The Abe administration has declared ‘equal work for equal pay’ a high priority in its policy agenda. To this end, the administration has been putting forward a ‘guideline’ showing concrete examples of ‘unfair wage disparities’, and specifying conditions under which employers could reasonably offer different pay for regular and non‐regular workers. Among those who consider that one should be paid the same regardless of employment contract, trade union movements have been quite active, and especially in the higher education sector in Japan. The General Union of University part‐time lecturers have recently received an exceptionally high wage increase as a result of collective bargaining at some renowned private universities. This paper focuses on the current conditions of non‐regular workers in Japan, as well as their active workers’ movements in view of ‘equal work for equal pay’ policy which the Abe administration has increasingly promoted.
Wing pattern polyphenism in two behavioural forms of Ochrogaster lunifer (Lepidoptera: Notodontidae)
Authors: Steinbauer Martin J
Published: March 2018

Polyphenisms are common among butterflies (most pronounced in females) but less well documented among moths despite providing insights into the ecology and behaviour of species in which they occur. I studied polyphenism of forewing pattern (maculation) in Ochrogaster lunifer Herrich‐Schäffer as it relates to the distribution and nesting behaviour of caterpillars. In south‐eastern Australia, ground‐nesting (g‐n) and canopy‐nesting (c‐n) forms are the most commonly observed. Nests keep g‐n larvae warmer but c‐n larvae cooler during the day when they are not foraging; they also provide protection from lower ambient humidity during the day. Females of both behavioural forms have the simplest wing pattern comprising a single spot of silvery white (unpigmented) scales below the areole and delimited by veins M1 and M3. The female pattern occurred most frequently in males from g‐n populations which are dominant at higher latitudes. Males from c‐n populations, which are dominant at lower latitudes, commonly have wings with one or more streaks of unpigmented scales (reduced melanisation), but some can have the female pattern. Some g‐n males can exhibit the streaked pattern if caterpillars develop at lower latitudes. Streaked males weigh less and live longer than spotted males. The weight of gravid females of the g‐n form was positively correlated with latitude (Bergmann cline) while those of gravid females of the c‐n form were negatively correlated with latitude (converse Bergmann cline). Females of both forms are capital breeders (oviposit once and die), but g‐n females lay greater numbers of smaller eggs than c‐n females. Although the two behavioural forms do not overlap substantially, adults interbreed under lab conditions and can produce fertile eggs. Significant reaction norms between latitude and streaking indicate that male wing pattern is a shared polyphenism while female wing pattern is a conserved, static trait. Nest temperature and group size probably have interactive effects on the expression of male wing polyphenism and female body size but understanding them will require rearing larvae on different hosts under artificial temperature, humidity and lighting regimes.
Impact of sexual debut on culturable human seminal microbiota
Authors: Mändar R. , Türk S. , Korrovits P. , Ausmees K. , Punab M.
Published: March 2018

Micro‐organisms are tightly integrated into host‐microbiota ecosystem. Microbiota of human semen has been studied so far mostly in case of infertility or prostatitis. We aimed to reveal possible impact of sexual debut on seminal microbiota in healthy young men. The study group included 68 young healthy men, of them 12 men without sexual experience, 11 men with single lifetime sexual partner and 45 men with multiple lifetime sexual partners. Basic semen parameters were similar for all subgroups, and no correlation between sexual experience and WBC counts in semen was found. A man could harbour one to nine different bacteria in his semen; the total concentration of bacteria ranged from 2.3 to 7.3 log10 CFU/mL of semen. Lower total bacterial concentration and lower bacterial diversity was observed in men without sexual experience than in sexually experienced men (p < 0.05), with significant positive correlation between these two parameters (r = 0.54; p < 0.0001). In conclusion, the sexual debut is associated with the enrichment of seminal microbiota but not with the influx of WBC or changes in basic seminal parameters.
Prevention of peritoneal recurrence in high‐risk colorectal cancer and evidence of T4 status as a potential risk factor
Authors: Kyang Lee Shyang , Valle Sarah J. , Alzahrani Nayef A. , Morris David L.
Published: March 2018

Peritoneal metastasis (PM) following primary resection of colorectal cancer is common. The combined use of cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy has significantly improved the survival outcome of patients with colorectal PM (CRPM). Diagnosing and treating early PM is essential as its extent is correlated with poorer outcomes. There are two novel therapies – second‐look surgery and synchronous hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy – that are proposed to prophylactically treat or intervene early in the disease process to reduce the incidence and adverse outcomes associated with PM. These strategies are limited to patients at high risk of developing CRPM, including those that had synchronous PM or ovarian metastases resected at primary tumour removal, or a perforated primary tumour. The data on advanced primary tumour (T4) as a prognostic factor for PM after primary resection suggest that T4a tumours are prognostically worse than T4b. This literature review outlines the evidence, feasibility and safety regarding the pre‐emptive treatments, as well as the relevance of T4a tumours as a risk factor for metachronous CRPM.
Snapshot of trauma laparotomy deaths in Queensland
Authors: Ashrafi Darius , Rey‐Conde Therese , North John B. , Wysocki Arkadiusz P.
Published: March 2018

Background

Trauma remains the most frequent cause of death for patients under 35 years of age. Head injury and catastrophic haemorrhage account for the majority of early deaths. A trauma laparotomy is often necessary to arrest haemorrhage.

Methods

All patients who died in Queensland hospitals between 2011 and 2016 having had a trauma laparotomy were identified from the Queensland Audit of Surgical Mortality.

Results

About 69.0% of the 84 deaths were male with a median age of 47.6 years. About 64.3% of deaths occurred within the first 2 days following trauma. Mechanism of injury was typically road traffic accident (77.4%). Sixteen patients underwent a non‐therapeutic laparotomy. Following peer‐review, different management was recommended for only three patients.

Conclusion

This group of patients who died in the setting of a trauma laparotomy received high quality trauma care. Ongoing education is needed as some non‐therapeutic laparotomies may be avoidable.
Prevalence of exceeding maximum daily dose of paracetamol, and seasonal variations in cold‐flu season
Authors: Shiffman Saul , Battista Deena R. , Kelly Judith P. , Malone Mary K. , Weinstein Rachel B. , Kaufman David W.
Published: March 2018

Aims

To estimate prevalence of excess intake of paracetamol and investigate seasonal variations therein.

Methods

Between 2011 and 2016, 14 481 US adults who used paracetamol in the preceding 30 days were sampled from national online panels and completed a detailed online daily diary of paracetamol medication use for 7 days. Respondents were not told that the study concerned paracetamol. Cold/flu season (CFS), identified using Google Trends data, was contrasted to off‐season in symptoms, use of paracetamol medications, and consumption exceeding 4 g (the recommended daily maximum).

Results

Overall, 6.3% [95% confidence interval: 5.9–6.7%] of users exceeded 4 g on at least one day; 3.7% [3.5–3.8%] of usage days exceeded 4 g. Cold/flu symptoms were more likely to be experienced and treated with paracetamol in CFS than off‐season. Paracetamol users were more likely to exceed 4 g during CFS (6.5% vs. 5.3%; odds ratio = 1.24, 1.04–1.48); days exceeding 4 g also increased (3.9% vs. 2.8%; odds ratio = 1.37, 1.11–1.69). This was not due to differences in characteristics of individuals using paracetamol in CFS, but primarily to increased use of over‐the‐counter combination medications designed to treat upper respiratory cold/flu symptoms (33.2% of usage days in CFS vs. 24.8% in off‐season; odds ratio = 1.58, 1.46–1.72). When such medications were omitted, there was no statistically significant seasonal variation in exceeding 4 g.

Conclusions

Paracetamol use and over‐dosing increases in CFS, primarily due to increased use of over‐the‐counter combinations treating upper respiratory cold/flu symptoms. Pharmacists should warn users to follow labelled dosing directions, especially during CFS.
Trends in analgesic consumption in France over the last 10 years and comparison of patterns across Europe
Authors: Hider‐Mlynarz Karima , Cavalié Philippe , Maison Patrick
Published: March 2018

Aims

The aims of the present study were to describe the consumption trends of three groups of analgesics (non‐opioids, and mild and strong opioids) between 2006 and 2015 in France, and compare this pattern of use with six European countries in 2015.

Methods

Annual drugs sales were extracted from the French national authority's consumption database, and from the IMS Multinational Integrated Data Analysis System and national databases for European countries.

Results

The use of mild opioids in France was found to have decreased by 53% over the past 10 years, owing to the declining use of dextropropoxyphene combinations, along with an increase in the use of non‐opioids and strong opioids (from 72 to 93, and 2 to 2.8 defined daily doses/1000 inhabitants/day, respectively). Paracetamol, the most consumed analgesic, increased over this period, particularly for the adult high dose (+140%). The use of tramadol and codeine combinations also increased, by 62% and 42%, respectively. Morphine remained the most used strong opioid, although there were also large increases in the consumption of oxycodone (+613%) and fentanyl (+263% and +72% for transmucosal and transdermal forms, respectively). A comparison of the patterns of use in Europe in 2015 showed a higher consumption of mild and strong opioids in the UK. France ranked first and third place, respectively, for paracetamol and mild opioid consumption, whereas its use of strong opioids was among the lowest.

Conclusions

Paracetamol consumption is clearly highest in France, whereas its use of strong opioids is among the lowest in Europe, although its consumption of oxycodone has increased significantly. Further studies are required specifically to monitor these drugs.
Decision‐makers are resilient in the face of social exclusion
Authors: Juanchich Marie , Walasek Lukasz , Sirota Miroslav
Published: March 2018

A growing body of evidence suggests that social exclusion impairs people's capacity for active deliberation and logical reasoning. Building on this finding and on the postulate from the dual‐process theory that analytical thinking is essential in order to make good judgements and decisions, we hypothesized that social exclusion will alter judgement and choice behaviour. We tested this hypothesis in three experiments in which social exclusion was manipulated using the Cyberball paradigm, an online ball‐tossing game in which participants either received the ball a fair number of times or were excluded by the other two players. We focused on a range of tasks designed to be sensitive to participants’ ability to engage in analytical thinking and careful deliberation, including the cognitive reflection test (Experiment 1) and a set of anchoring, intertemporal preference, disjunction, and confidence tasks (experiments 2 and 3). Our results unanimously failed to support the hypothesis that social exclusion influences people's judgements and decision‐making. We discuss the implications of our findings for social exclusion theory.
Tumor‐stage mycosis fungoides in palmoplantar localization with large‐cell transformation and partial CD30 expression shows complete response to brentuximab vedotin
Authors: Pham Anh Khoa , Carter Joi B. , Ratcliffe Nora R. , Fuld Alexander D. , Lansigan Frederick , Burnside Nancy J. , Guill Marshall A. , Zug Kathryn A. , Jarvis Lesley A. , LeBlanc Robert E.
Published: March 2018

Mycosis fungoides in palmoplantar localization (MFPP) is a rare variant of MF that is confined to the hands and feet. Patients commonly receive treatment over many years for suspected palmoplantar dermatitis before the diagnosis is made. Most MFPP patients remain at patch or plaque stage, and often respond to treatment with radiotherapy. Herein, we describe a 77‐year‐old man who suffered 6 years of hand and foot dermatitis that failed multiple treatments, most notably TNF‐α inhibitors and mycophenolate mofetil. He eventually developed a tumor on the hand, which was biopsied to reveal a dense dermal infiltrate of large lymphocytes (CD3+/CD4‐/CD8‐/TCR‐BetaF1+/partial CD30+). A subsequent biopsy of an eczematous patch from his hand revealed an epidermotropic and syringotropic infiltrate comprised of smaller lymphocytes with a concordant immunophenotype and matching clonal peak with TCR gene rearrangement. He was diagnosed with MFPP and started on radiotherapy with a modest response; therefore, a decision was made to start brentuximab vedotin, which resulted in a complete response. MFPP is an exceedingly rare variant of MF that can show large‐cell transformation and progress in stage. We highlight a possible association between disease progression and immunosuppressants and the potential role for treatment with brentuximab.
Tooth fragment reattachment techniques—A systematic review
Authors: Garcia Fernanda Cristina P. , Poubel Déborah L. N. , Almeida Júlio César F. , Toledo Isabela P. , Poi Wilson R. , Guerra Eliete N. S. , Rezende Liliana V. M. L.
Published: March 2018

Background/Aim

Several strategies have been developed for tooth fragment reattachment following fracture. Although many techniques have been reported, there is no consensus on which one has the best results in terms of the bond strength between the fragment and the dentin over time. The aim of this study was to assess the currently reported tooth fragment reattachment techniques for fractured crowns of anterior teeth.

Materials and Methods

The PubMed, LILACS, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Scopus databases were searched in October 2016, and the search was updated in February 2017. A search of the gray literature was performed in Google Scholar and OpenGrey. Reference lists of eligible studies were cross‐checked to identify additional studies; gray literature and ongoing trials were investigated. Two authors assessed studies to determine inclusion and undertook data extraction. Case reports/series of three or more cases, cross‐sectional studies, cohort studies, and in vivo clinical trials in all languages were included.

Results

Five articles remained after screening. These studies predominantly reported on fragment reattachment with composite resin and resin cement. There was little consistency among the studies in regard to the technique used for tooth fragment reattachment and length of the follow‐up period.

Conclusions

According to the evidence found in the studies included in this review, simple tooth fragment reattachment was the preferred reattachment technique. An increase in the bond strength between tooth fragment and dentin was observed when an intermediate material was used. Further investigation is needed, using standard follow‐up periods and larger samples.
The photokinesis of oriental fruit flies, Bactrocera dorsalis, to LED lights of various wavelengths
Authors: Liu Huan , Gao Zhou , Deng Shu‐Zhen , Cao Feng‐Qin , Lu Yong‐Yue
Published: March 2018

The oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis Hendel (Diptera: Tephritidae), is an invasive pest of orchards around the world, particularly in Asian countries such as China. Light traps offer a potential means for pest monitoring and management. This study aimed to evaluate the sensitivity of the fly to light and investigate the impact of monochromatic light in the sensitivity spectrum on B. dorsalis. Six light wavelengths in LEDs – green (522 nm), yellow (596 nm), blue (450 nm), red (633 nm), purple (440 nm), and white (compound light) – were adapted to test responses of 5‐, 10‐, and 20‐day‐old B. dorsalis adults kept in laboratory conditions. We also tested the effects of green and red lights on pupal development and adults’ life activities. The results indicated a phototaxis preference rank in B. dorsalis adults to monochromatic LEDs with, in decreasing order, green, yellow, purple, blue, and red. Moreover, positive phototaxis significantly increased with age. Male adults are more sensitive than female adults to test lights, mainly at the age of 10 and 20 days. Emergence rates of pupae exposed to 12 and 24 h green light daily were 42 and 67%, respectively, whereas controls held in red light emerged at 33 and 37%, respectively. Furthermore, body weight, female fecundity, and mortality of B. dorsalis in night‐time exposure of green light (from 21:00 to 09:00 hours; during daytime flies were illuminated by white LED light) were significantly higher than in red‐light test groups and dark controls. In conclusion, B. dorsalis displayed preference toward green light, and fly age and gender seemed to significantly impact the phototactic behavior. Green LED light exposure during nighttime remarkably improved the emergence rates of B. dorsalis, and it enhanced growth, development, and ovipositing peak period, but decreased adult lifespan. This research lays a foundation for the development of new trap models, e.g., with green sticky cards or green light, for monitoring and control of B. dorsalis in the field.
Expectations vs reality: The expectations and experiences of psychiatric treatment reported by young adults at a mood and anxiety outpatient mental health program
Authors: Armstrong Sarah , Wammes Michael , Arcaro Justin , Hostland Amanda , Summerhurst Carolyn , Osuch Elizabeth
Published: March 2018

Aim

To compare young adults' expectations of psychiatric treatment to their actual experiences and identify myths and assumptions that youth might hold prior to receiving care.

Methods

We interviewed youth who engaged in at least 4 months of treatment at the First Episode Mood and Anxiety Program to theme saturation (N = 20). They were asked about their experience of treatment and the expectations they had prior to care. Transcribed interviews were analysed for themes.

Results

Results indicated that participants often expected a cold, serious atmosphere, a “quick fix,” and a directive therapeutic relationship. Although most patients had a negative experience at some point in their care, they overall described a welcoming environment with engaged providers and a collaborative therapeutic relationship. Participants found treatment more complex than they had anticipated, but ultimately experienced strengthening of agency and a change in perspective.

Conclusions

These results identify a need to recognize assumptions held by young adults seeking treatment for mental health symptoms. Addressing these preconceptions might reduce apprehension and improve readiness for treatment. This research provides direction on how to dispel myths and better prepare youth for the work involved in effective psychiatric care.
Experience modulates motor imagery‐based brain activity
Authors: Kraeutner Sarah N. , McWhinney Sean R. , Solomon Jack P. , Dithurbide Lori , Boe Shaun G.
Published: March 2018

Whether or not brain activation during motor imagery (MI), the mental rehearsal of movement, is modulated by experience (i.e. skilled performance, achieved through long‐term practice) remains unclear. Specifically,MIis generally associated with diffuse activation patterns that closely resemble novice physical performance, which may be attributable to a lack of experience with the task being imagined vs. being a distinguishing feature ofMI. We sought to examine how experience modulates brain activity driven viaMI, implementing a within‐ and between‐group design to manipulate experience across tasks as well as expertise of the participants. Two groups of ‘experts’ (basketball/volleyball athletes) and ‘novices’ (recreational controls) underwent magnetoencephalography (MEG) while performingMIof four multi‐articular tasks, selected to ensure that the degree of experience that participants had with each task varied. Source‐level analysis was applied toMEGdata and linear mixed effects modelling was conducted to examine task‐related changes in activity. Within‐ and between‐group comparisons were completedpost hocand difference maps were plotted. Brain activation patterns observed duringMIof tasks for which participants had a low degree of experience were more widespread and bilateral (i.e. within‐groups), with limited differences observed duringMIof tasks for which participants had similar experience (i.e. between‐groups). Thus, we show that brain activity duringMIis modulated by experience; specifically, that novice performance is associated with the additional recruitment of regions across both hemispheres. Future investigations of the neural correlates ofMIshould consider prior experience when selecting the task to be performed.
Re‐emergent tremor in Parkinson's disease: the effect of dopaminergic treatment
Authors: Belvisi D. , Conte A. , Cutrona C. , Costanzo M. , Ferrazzano G. , Fabbrini G. , Berardelli A.
Published: March 2018

Background and purpose

Patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) with resting tremor may be affected by a tremor that appears after a varying latency while a posture is maintained, a phenomenon referred to as re‐emergent tremor (RET). The aim of the study was to evaluate the occurrence and clinical features of RET in patients with PD tested off and on treatment, and to compare the effect of dopaminergic treatment on RET with the effect on resting and action tremor.

Methods

We consecutively enrolled 100 patients with PD. Patients were clinically evaluated 24 h after withdrawal of therapy (off‐treatment phase) and 60 min after therapy administration (on‐treatment phase). We collected the demographic and clinical data of patients with PD. The severity of the disease was assessed by means of the Hoehn and Yahr scale and Movement Disorder Society‐sponsored revision of the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale part III. We evaluated the latency, severity and body side affected both off and on treatment in patients with RET.

Results

Re‐emergent tremor was present in 24% of the patients with PD off treatment and in 19% of the patients on treatment. Dopaminergic treatment reduced the clinical severity of RET. Dopaminergic treatment increased the number of patients with unilateral RET and reduced the number of those who had bilateral RET. RET and resting tremor responded similarly to dopaminergic treatment, whereas action tremor was less responsive. Patients with RET had milder motor symptoms than patients without RET both off and on treatment.

Conclusions

Dopaminergic treatment modified RET occurrence, severity and body distribution. Dopaminergic depletion plays a role in the pathophysiology of RET.
Altered vaccine‐induced immunity in children with Dravet syndrome
Authors: Auvin Stéphane , Jeljeli Mohamed , Desnous Béatrice , Soussi‐Yanicostas Nadia , Dournaud Pascal , Sterkers Ghislaine
Published: March 2018

Dravet syndrome (DS) is a refractory epileptic syndrome. Vaccination is the trigger of the first seizure in about 50% of cases. Fever remains a trigger of seizures during the course of the disease. We compared ex vivo cytokine responses to a combined aluminium‐adjuvanted vaccine of children with DS to sex‐ and age‐matched heathy children. Using ex vivo cytokine responses of peripheral‐blood mononuclear cells and monocytes, we found that vaccine responsiveness is biased toward a proinflammatory profile in DS with a M1 phenotype of monocytes. We provide new insight into immune mechanisms associated with DS that might guide research for the development of new immunotherapeutic agents in this epilepsy syndrome.
Capturing genetic variation in crop wild relatives: An evolutionary approach
Authors: Egan Paul A. , Muola Anne , Stenberg Johan A.
Published: March 2018

Crop wild relatives (CWRs) offer novel genetic resources for crop improvement. To assist in the urgent need to collect and conserve CWR germplasm, we advance here the concept of an “evolutionary” approach. Central to this approach is the predictive use of spatial proxies of evolutionary processes (natural selection, gene flow and genetic drift) to locate and capture genetic variation. As a means to help validate this concept, we screened wild‐collected genotypes of woodland strawberry (Fragaria vesca) in a common garden. A quantitative genetic approach was then used to test the ability of two such proxies—mesoclimatic variation (a proxy of natural selection) and landscape isolation and geographic distance between populations (proxies of gene flow potential)—to predict spatial genetic variation in three quantitative traits (plant size, early season flower number and flower frost tolerance). Our results indicated a significant but variable effect of mesoclimatic conditions in structuring genetic variation in the wild, in addition to other undetermined regional scale processes. As a proxy of gene flow potential, landscape isolation was also a likely determinant of observed patterns—as opposed to, and regardless of, geographic distance between populations. We conclude that harnessing proxies of adaptive and nonadaptive evolutionary processes could provide a robust and valuable means to identify genetic variation in CWRs. We thus advocate wider use and development of this approach amongst researchers, breeders and practitioners, to expedite the capture and in situ conservation of genetic resources provided by crop wild relatives.
Study of low‐temperature effect on the fracture locus of a 420‐MPa structural steel with the edge tracing method
Authors: Tu S. , Ren X. , Kristensen T.A. , He J. , Zhang Z.
Published: March 2018

Quasi‐static tensile tests with smooth round bar and axisymmetric notched tensile specimens have been performed to study the low‐temperature effect on the fracture locus of a 420‐MPa structural steel. Combined with a digital high‐speed camera and a 2‐plane mirror system, specimen deformation was recorded in 2 orthogonal planes. Pictures taken were then analysed with the edge tracing method to calculate the minimum cross‐section diameter reduction of the necked/notched specimen. Obvious temperature effect was observed on the load‐strain curves for smooth and notched specimens. Both the strength and strain hardening characterized by the strain at maximum load increase with temperature decrease down to −60°C. Somewhat unexpected, the fracture strains (ductility) of both smooth and notched specimens at temperatures down to −60°C do not deteriorate, compared with those at room temperature. Combined with numerical analyses, it shows that the effect of low temperatures (down to −60°C) on fracture locus is insignificant. These findings shed new light on material selection for Arctic operation.
Prevalence of restless legs syndrome in a tertiary cohort of ambulant patients with chronic liver disease
Authors: Ma Michael X. , Huang Yi , Adams Leon A. , Gilpin Robert , Garas George , MacQuillan Gerry , Jeffrey Gary P. , Nicholas Ross Mac
Published: March 2018

A cross‐sectional survey of 188 ambulant patients with chronic liver disease was performed to determine the prevalence of restless legs syndrome (RLS) using a validated patient completed questionnaire. Patient responses were verified by standardised telephone interview. RLS was identified in 64 (34%) patients. Significantly, more patients with cirrhosis had RLS than patients without RLS (43.9 vs 23.3%, P = 0.003, respectively). Cirrhotic patients with a history of hepatic encephalopathy were also more likely to have RLS than patients without hepatic encephalopathy (odds ratio = 4.33, 95% confidence interval = 1.40–13.37, P = 0.011). Patients with chronic liver disease may be at risk for RLS; early detection and treatment may improve patient outcomes.
Severe methanol poisoning with neurological sequelae: implications for diagnosis and management
Authors: Holt Nicolette R. , Nickson Christopher P.
Published: March 2018

A 22‐year‐old woman presented with methanol toxicity manifesting as headache, reduced conscious state and visual change after consuming home‐made grappa. She progressed to a coma with fixed mydriasis and severe acidaemia (pH 6.55). She was treated with empirical antidote administration (intravenous ethanol) and enhanced elimination through haemodialysis. She survived despite her delayed presentation but developed significant neurological sequelae, including visual impairment. We provide an overview of key elements of diagnosis and recent updates in treatment recommendations.