bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accuracy and Bias in Perception of Distress Level and Distress Change Among Same-Sex College Student Roommate Dyads
Authors: Xu Qi , Shrout Patrick E.
Published: February 2018

University students often experience high levels of stress and, in some cases, the stress leads to tragic outcomes. An important question is whether roommates can perceive the level and change in distress in their peers. We examined self- and other-reports of 187 same-sex undergraduate dyads at two times in a spring semester. Using the truth and bias model, we found that roommates tended to underestimate their partner’s distress at both time points, and that ratings were equally influenced by truth and self-focus bias forces. For change, however, there was no evidence of directional (average) bias, and perceived change was only significantly related to the truth force. There were no consistent moderation effects by closeness or gender. These findings are interpreted in the context of person perception theory and the practical need for early warning about extreme distress in college students.
Berryman's Sickness Unto Death
Authors: Mouw Alex
Published: February 2018

In his copy of Søren Kierkegaard's The Sickness Unto Death, John Berryman inserted a handwritten note entitled “Sense of Guilt,” which ends in an existential prayer: “I tremble — I am afraid — Jesus, Son of God, help me.” Twenty years later, Berryman published one of his most substantial collections of poetry: 77 Dream Songs. And though the Dream Songs were published long after Berryman left his anxious comments in The Sickness Unto Death, I argue that they enact a struggle with the Christian concepts of despair and the self as Berryman learned them from Kierkegaard.
Not Wholly Communion: Skepticism and the Instrumentalization of Religion in Stoker’s Dracula
Authors: Purcell Stephen
Published: February 2018

A recurring theme in Dracula criticism is the assumption that, because Stoker’s protagonists rely on Catholic sacraments and symbols, they represent Catholicism, High Church Protestantism, or a perverse variation thereof. The protagonists’ adoption of Catholic sacramentality, however, lacks any accompanying moral or epistemological shift—Stoker’s protagonists never adopt Christian morality, nor do they transition from skepticism to faith. Rather, the protagonists instrumentalize Catholic sacramental objects, making them tools with which to exterminate vampires and to justify the hatred that underpins that task. The protagonists’ relationship to the Communion wafer encapsulates their disregard for theology and their willingness to manipulate sacrament.
Father Ong as Cultural Critic
Authors: Harp Jerry
Published: February 2018

Walter J. Ong is well known for his in-depth work in studies of orality and literacy. This article proposes reading Ong in more expansive terms, as a cultural critic with a wide range of knowledge and a deep sense that all things are connected. This conviction of all things’ interrelationship, combined with the sense that, in the words of Gerard Manley Hopkins, all the “world is charged with the grandeur of God,” yielded in Ong insights into a broad array of subjects. Many of these insights grow out of, but are not limited to, his orality–literacy studies.
A Good Laugh Is Hard to Find: From Destructive Satire to Sacramental Humor in Evelyn Waugh’s Helena
Authors: Tomko Helena M.
Published: February 2018

Despite Evelyn Waugh’s conviction that Helena (1950) was his greatest work, the novel receives less critical attention than his well-known interwar satires and his postwar hit, Brideshead Revisited (1945). This article argues that the novel accomplishes Waugh’s self-conscious postwar effort to rehouse his satiric impulses in a mode that resists both the “dark” laughter of modernism and the sentimentality risked in mid-century Catholic fiction. With metafictive attention to genre and style, Helena exemplifies what this article terms “sacramental humor.” Waugh’s fictionalized St. Helena embodies the contrast between satire that seeks to correct or destroy and humor that seeks to heal.
Perceptions of Fairness and Housework Disagreement: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Tai Tsui-o , Baxter Janeen
Published: February 2018

This article uses data from couples in 29 nations to investigate the associations between household divisions of labor, perceptions of housework fairness, and frequency of housework disagreement. We extend previous studies by hypothesizing that perceptions of fairness mediate the relationship between household division of labor and housework disagreement. We also hypothesize that the association between perceptions of fairness and housework disagreement will be stronger for women than men and will be influenced by both individual characteristics and macro-level context. The results support our hypotheses, showing that individuals’ relative resources and macro-level factors such as the female–male earned income ratio strengthen the relationship between perceptions of fairness and housework disagreement. We conclude that relative economic resources between genders at the micro- and macro-level shape the extent to which subjective perceptions of fairness are associated with housework disagreement.
“There’s a Cultural Pride Through Our Games”: Enhancing the Sport Experiences of Indigenous Youth in Canada Through Participation in Traditional Games
Authors: Dubnewick Michael , Hopper Tristan , Spence John C. , McHugh Tara-Leigh F.
Published: February 2018

The purpose of this community-based participatory research was to better understand how participation in traditional games can enhance the sport experiences of Indigenous youth. Eight Indigenous youth (14-18 years) and 10 adults living in various communities in the Northwest Territories, Canada, participated in either a one-on-one interview or group interview. Data were analyzed using an inductive content analysis approach, and findings suggest that participating in traditional games can enhance the sport experiences of Indigenous youth by (a) promoting cultural pride, (b) interacting with Elders, (c) supporting connection to the land, (d) developing personal characteristics, and (e) developing a foundation for movement. This research advances the sport literature and provides necessary insights regarding traditional games for sport programmers and policy makers.
Language Choice Matters: When Profanity Affects How People Are Judged
Authors: DeFrank Melanie , Kahlbaugh Patricia
Published: February 2018

Swearing is prevalent in our society, but the influence of such language choices on judgments of others is not well understood. This study examines how the composition of conversational dyads, speaker’s gender, and use of profanity influence impressions. Participants ( N = 138) were randomly assigned to read two conversations and rate target speakers (one male, one female). The conversations had neither, one, or both speakers using profanity and consisted of same- or mixed-gender dyads. The result is a 2 (target speaker, male/female) × 2 (dyad composition) × 3 (profanity) mixed design with speaker gender as the repeated measure. Speakers using profanity had poorer impression ratings on several variables, including overall impression, intelligence, and trustworthiness. Speakers swearing in mixed-gender dyads were rated as less sociable, and males swearing in mixed-gender dyads were rated as more offensive. Language choices matter, and more research is needed to understand the unconscious biases held against those who use profanity.
When Context Meets Self-Selection: The Built Environment–Travel Connection Revisited
Authors: Zhang Ming , Zhang Wenjia
Published: February 2018

Existing studies on the built environment (BE)–travel connection tend to underestimate the potential of BE-based mobility strategies due to these studies’ limitations in conceptual and analytical frames. This study conceptualized the combined direct and indirect effects of BE on travel as contextual effects around three features of BE: multiplicity, interaction, and scalability. The conceptual framework was operationalized through multilevel modeling. The empirical analysis from Austin, Texas, verified the multiplicity of BE as it affected VMT, confirmed the complementary effects of BE and residential self-selection on VMT, and demonstrated practical procedures to deal with the analytical challenges of BE scalability.
Three-Dimensional Photography for Measuring Volumetric Changes After Submental Cryolipolysis
Authors: Honeybrook Adam , Bloom Jason D. , Woodard Charles , Bernstein Eric F.
Published: February 2018

High-resolution 3-dimensional photography offers unparalleled advantages in objective and detailed skin contour characterization, quantification, volumetric and surface area analysis. This study aims to illustrate the benefits of 3-dimensional photography through analysis of noninvasive reduction of submental fat using cryolipolysis. A nonrandomized prospective analysis was performed of 14 selected patients who underwent treatment with cryolipolysis (CoolSculpting System; Zeltiq) between February and June 2016. The benefits of 3-dimensional photography (Vectra; Canfield Scientific) are presented. High-quality 3-dimensional images are presented to illustrate the utility of 3-dimensional photography as a means to quantitatively evaluate changes in submental volume, fat thickness, and surface area reduction, thereby exemplifying the broad applicability of this imaging technique. Three-dimensional photography technology provides clinicians with enhanced options that extend beyond simple 2-dimensional photography. Our study illustrates the benefits of the technology for accurately measuring volumetric changes after submental cryolipolysis treatment.
The future of childhood studies? Reconstructing childhood with ideological dilemmas and metaphorical expressions
Authors: Holmberg Linnéa
Published: February 2018

This article draws attention to the way some theoretically driven researchers discuss an insistent need for reframing the ontological and epistemological assumptions in the field of research known as childhood studies. Using a rhetorical approach, I will take a closer look at how their vocabulary is constructed and made credible through an attempt to find a cohesive language applicable in an interdisciplinary discourse. The article points to the paradoxical claim of taking a step away from a modernist way of thinking, while the arguing is based on a modernist approach. In addition, it also highlights constructions of a certain ideal researcher.
Electro-chemical spark machining–based hybrid machining processes: Research trends and opportunities
Authors: Yadav Ravindra Nath
Published: February 2018

Shaping of the difficult-to-machine non-conductive materials such as glass, quartz and ceramic is much difficult and uneconomical by existing machining processes. As a result, wide applicabilities of these materials are still limited. Even though these materials are highly required in the field of the modern industries. To overcome the problem, a new machining method has been proposed by researchers by combining the features of electro-chemical machining and electro-discharge machining. Such combined machining process is called as electro-chemical spark machining process. Such developed machining method becomes an appropriate process for machining of non-conductive materials with significant improvement in productivity as compared to the electro-discharge machining and electro-chemical machining processes. In this article, the role of electro-chemical spark machining for machining of the non-conductive materials has been summarized and focused on the future research possibilities in the same area. This article also focuses on mechanism, process and performance parameters, variants and new developments related to the electro-chemical spark machining. As a result, this review article becomes beneficial for researchers to understand the phenomena of the electro-chemical spark machining process as well as further development in the same area.
Prostate Cancer Risk Reduced by Physical Activity Even Among Men With Prolonged Sitting Time: A Study From Vietnam
Authors: Van Hoang Dong , Lee Andy H. , Pham Ngoc Minh , Binns Colin W.
Published: February 2018

Increasing prostate cancer incidence in the Asia-Pacific region may be related to a more sedentary lifestyle resulted from economic growth and rapid urbanization. The present case-control study of 640 men aged 64 to 75 years was conducted in Vietnam between 2013 and 2015 to ascertain the relationship between physical activity and prostate cancer risk, accounting for the duration of sitting time. Reduced prostate cancer risks were found for men engaging in medium (15.8-47.3 metabolic equivalent task [MET]-h/week) and high (>47.3 MET-h/week) physical activity levels, with the adjusted odds ratios being 0.52 (95% confidence interval = 0.35-0.77) and 0.27 (95% confidence interval = 0.14-0.49), respectively. This association was independent of sitting time. Analyses of joint association of physical activity and sitting time also found a reduction in the cancer risk for higher energy expenditure levels. Similar results were evident for both low-medium and high grade tumors. The findings are important for developing health strategies to prevent prostate cancer in Asian countries.
Civil Forensic Psychiatry – part 3: practical aspects of managing a medico-legal practice
Authors: Samuels Anthony H
Published: February 2018

Objectives:

This is the third in a series of papers on Civil Forensic Psychiatry and provides practical advice for forensic psychiatrists, general psychiatrists and trainees who are expanding or contemplating a medico-legal aspect to their practice.

Conclusions:

Attention to the practice setting, office layout, recording of information, management of documentation, screening of briefs and proper timetabling can improve safety, quality, reliability and workload manageability.
Going the distance: reviewing antipsychotic depot or long-acting injectable treatments in Australasia
Authors: Theodoros Theo , Taylor Mark , Huang Hannah Chu-Han , Wang Nancy , Motamarri Balaji
Published: February 2018

Objectives:

The aim of this study is to provide an opinion paper reviewing the role of depot or long-acting injectable (LAI) antipsychotic medications, with comments on individual newer LAIs such aripiprazole maintena and paliperidone palmitate. In particular, we share our recent experience of using paliperidone three-monthly LAI. We also reflect on the associated benefits and potential harms of LAIs, and when they may be used.

Conclusions:

LAI antipsychotics are an important and arguably under-utilised therapeutic option, particularly where medication adherence is a priority, and where an informed patient opts for this formulation. Paliperidone is the first three-monthly LAI antipsychotic, and as such represents a significant advance in the range of treatment choices.
Beck Depression Inventory as a screening tool for depression in chronic haemodialysis patients
Authors: Bautovich Alison , Katz Ivor , Loo Colleen Ken , Harvey Samuel B
Published: February 2018

Objectives:

To evaluate the psychometric properties of the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Cognitive Depression Index (CDI) as a potential screening tool for major depression in haemodialysis (HD) patients.

Methods:

Forty-five HD patients completed both the BDI/CDI and diagnostic interview. The interview was conducted by two experienced clinicians and was based on DSM-IV criteria. The sensitivity, specificity and positive (PPV) and negative (NPV) predictive values were then calculated.

Results:

A diagnosis of depression was found in 6 of the 45 participants (13.3%). Optimal cut-offs were ≥18 for the BDI (sensitivity 1.0, specificity 0.90, PPV 0.60, NPV 1.0) and ≥11 for the CDI (sensitivity 1.0, specificity 0.92, PPV 0.67, NPV 1.0).

Conclusions:

Both the BDI and CDI were shown to be acceptable screening tools for depression in this population of chronic HD patients. The recommended cut-off scores for both scales are higher than those suggested for the general population and slightly higher than previously found in the chronic kidney disease literature, suggesting that altered thresholds are required when using these screening tools amongst HD patients.
Enabling choice, recovery and participation: evidence-based early intervention support for psychosocial disability in the National Disability Insurance Scheme
Authors: Hayes Laura , Brophy Lisa , Harvey Carol , Tellez Juan Jose , Herrman Helen , Killackey Eoin
Published: February 2018

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to identify the most effective interventions for early intervention in psychosocial disability in the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) through an evidence review.

Methods:

A series of rapid reviews were undertaken to establish possible interventions for psychosocial disability, to develop our understanding of early intervention criteria for the NDIS and to determine which interventions would meet these criteria.

Results:

Three interventions (social skills training, supported employment and supported housing) have a strong evidence base for effectiveness in early intervention in people with psychosocial disability, with the potential for adoption by the NDIS. They support personal choice and recovery outcomes. Illness self-management, cognitive remediation and cognitive behavioural therapy for psychosis demonstrate outcomes to mitigate impairment. The evidence for family psycho-education is also very strong.

Conclusions:

This review identified evidence-based, recovery-oriented approaches to early intervention in psychosocial disability. They meet the criteria for early intervention in the NDIS, are relevant to participants and consider their preferences. Early intervention has the potential to save costs by reducing participant reliance on the scheme.
Referral patterns and implementation costs of the Partners in Recovery initiative in Gippsland: learnings for the National Disability Insurance Scheme
Authors: Isaacs Anton N , Dalziel Kim , Sutton Keith , Maybery Darryl
Published: February 2018

Objective:

The purpose of this paper is to provide some learnings for the NDIS from the referral pattern and cost of implementing the Partners in Recovery initiative of Gippsland.

Method:

Information on referral areas made for each consumer was collated from support facilitators. Cost estimates were determined using budget estimates, administrative costs and a literature review and are reported from a government perspective.

Results:

Sixty-three per cent of all referrals were made to organisations that provided multiple types of services. Thirty-one per cent were to Mental Health Community Support Services. Eighteen per cent of referrals were made to clinical mental health services. The total cost of providing the service for a consumer per year (set-up and ongoing) was estimated to be AUD$15,755 and the ongoing cost per year was estimated to be AUD$13,434. The cost of doing nothing is likely to cost more in the longer term, with poor mental health outcomes such as hospital admission, unemployment benefits, prison, homelessness and psychiatric residential care.

Conclusions:

Supporting recovery in persons with Severe and Persistent Mental Illness is likely to be economically more beneficial than not doing so. Recovery can be better supported when frequently utilised services are co-located. These might be some learnings for the NDIS.
Diarrhea caused by rotavirus A, B, and C in suckling piglets from southern Brazil: molecular detection and histologic and immunohistochemical characterization
Authors: Almeida Paula R. , Lorenzetti Elis , Cruz Raquel S. , Watanabe Tatiane T. , Zlotowski Priscila , Alfieri Amauri A. , Driemeier David
Published: February 2018

Rotavirus (RV) is an important viral pathogen causing diarrhea in piglets and other mammals worldwide. We describe 34 cases from 4 diarrheal outbreaks caused by RV in unvaccinated farrowing units in southern Brazil from 2011 to 2013. We performed autopsy, histologic examinations, bacterial culture, RV immunohistochemistry (IHC), and enteric virus detection through molecular assays for rotavirus A, B, and C, transmissible gastroenteritis virus, porcine epidemic diarrhea virus, sapovirus, norovirus, and kobuvirus. Histologically, villus atrophy (29 of 34) and epithelial vacuolation (27 of 34) occurred in all 4 outbreaks. Cell debris in the lamina propria occurred in 20 cases, mostly from outbreaks A (8 of 11), C (4 of 6), and D (7 of 11). IHC was positive for RV in 21 of 34 samples. RT-PCR was positive for RV in 20 of 30 samples; RV-C was the most frequently detected RV ( n = 17). Kobuvirus was detected in 11 samples, and, in 3 of them, there was single detection of this enteric virus.
Gastrointestinal spindle cell tumor of the rumen with metastasis to the liver in a goat
Authors: Pesato Michael E. , Boyle Ashley G. , Fecteau Marie-Eve , Hamberg Alexander , Smith Billy I.
Published: February 2018

Many neoplasms have been reported in goats; however, neoplasia of the rumen is rarely reported. A 9-y-old castrated male pygmy goat was presented with a history of respiratory stertor, fever, and anorexia. A respiratory diagnostic work-up including skull and thorax radiographs and endoscopy revealed minor enlargement of the arytenoids but no other abnormal findings. After a month of little improvement on symptomatic treatment and worsening general health, the goat was euthanized. On autopsy, the forestomachs, liver, spleen, diaphragm, and the ventral and lateral aspects of the cranial third of the walls of the peritoneal cavity were adhered to one another by fibrinous and fibrous adhesions. Numerous firm, white, up to 2 cm diameter nodules were found throughout the liver. A large sessile mass extended from the rumen wall into the lumen. The rumen mass was a gastrointestinal stromal tumor with metastasis to the liver.
Demonstration of Resistant or Wild-Type Virus in Recurrent Viremia After Ganciclovir-Resistant Cytomegaloviral Infection
Authors: Jorgenson Margaret R. , Descourouez Jillian L. , Redfield Robert R. , Smith Jeannina A. , Mandelbrot Didier A.
Published: February 2018

Background: Ganciclovir-resistant cytomegalovirus (GR-CMV) is a serious complication of transplantation. Recurrence after primary infection is common. Little is known about CMV drug resistance and latency. Objective: Review CMV genotype during episodes of recurrent CMV viremia after prior documentation of ganciclovir resistance to evaluate if resistance is redemonstrated. Methods: All adult transplant recipients with history of GR-CMV viremia from January 1, 2011, to December 31, 2015, were screened; those with subsequent laboratory evidence of recurrent CMV viremia and genotyping were included. Results: A total of 23 patients had genetically confirmed GR-CMV within the study time period; 14 were excluded due to lack of repeat resistance testing at recurrence and 4 due to of lack of negativity between testing, leaving 5 patients with 7 episodes of recurrent viremia to evaluate. At first recurrent viremia, 4 patients (80%) demonstrated resistant genotype; 1 patient had wild type. Two patients went on to have a second viremia recurrence; both demonstrated wild-type genotype, despite the fact that the first recurrence in these patients was resistant genotype. Conclusion: In transplant recipients with history of GR-CMV, it appears that there is strain variability in latency: repeat genetic testing in patients with recurrent viremia after GR-CMV should be conducted. In the setting of wild-type repopulation, use of GCV should be considered.
Apixaban or Rivaroxaban Versus Warfarin for Treatment of Submassive Pulmonary Embolism After Catheter-Directed Thrombolysis
Authors: Groetzinger Lara M. , Miller Taylor J. , Rivosecchi Ryan M. , Smith Roy E. , Gladwin Mark T. , Rivera-Lebron Belinda N.
Published: February 2018

Background:

Little data exist on the use of direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) factor Xa inhibitors for submassive pulmonary embolism (PE) after catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT). The objective of this evaluation was to determine whether the transition from parenteral anticoagulation to DOACs for submassive PE after CDT would decrease hospital length of stay (LOS) compared to warfarin.

Methods:

A retrospective review of patients diagnosed with submassive PE who underwent CDT was conducted from January 1, 2012, to February 28, 2017. Hospital LOS and major and minor bleeding events were recorded during hospitalization and at 90 days.

Results:

Sixty-two patients met the inclusion criteria, 36 in warfarin group and 26 in the DOAC group. Overall, patients receiving rivaroxaban or apixaban had a shorter median hospital LOS compared to warfarin (4.0 vs 6.1 days, P = .002). In the multivariate regression analysis, administration of DOAC was an independent predictor of decreased hospital LOS, β: −2.1, 95% confidence interval (−3.5 to −0.7).

Conclusion:

Among patients with submassive PE, initiation of a DOAC shortly after CDT may result in a decreased hospital LOS compared to parenterally bridged warfarin.
Parent-Implemented Trial-Based Functional Analysis for Young Children With ASD
Authors: Gerow Stephanie , Rispoli Mandy , Gregori Emily , Sanchez Lisa
Published: February 2018

There is growing support for the use of trial-based functional analysis (TBFA) in applied settings. The purpose of the present study was to assess the accuracy and social validity of parent-implemented TBFAs. The participants were three young children (ages 3–7 years old) with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their mothers. Each mother implemented the TBFA with coaching from a behavior consultant. Following the TBFA, parent-implemented function-based interventions were evaluated using a multiple-probe across parent–child dyads design. Child challenging behavior decreased and communication increased following the implementation of the function-based intervention. TBFAs required approximately 5 to 7 hr of consultant time, and each mother rated the TBFA as socially valid. The results of this study indicate parent-implemented TBFAs may be an accurate and socially valid method to evaluate the function of challenging behavior in homes. The discussion includes implications for practice and directions for future research.
Optimal safe implantation corridors in feline cervical vertebrae (C2–T1): CT study in 16 domestic shorthair cats
Authors: Espadas Irene , Maddox Thomas W , de Vicente Felipe
Published: February 2018

Objectives

The objective of this study was to define safe corridors for the optimal placement of bicortical implants in the feline cervical spine (C2–T1) using CT.

Methods

CT images of feline cervical spines (n = 16) were reviewed retrospectively. Multiplanar reconstructions were used to define the optimal safe corridors. Safe corridors were defined by their angle of insertion, width and length. The insertion point within the vertebral body was also described. Vertebral measurements were compared between vertebrae using multilevel linear regression, and left and right measurements within vertebrae were compared with the paired samples Wilcoxon signed-rank test. A P value <0.05 was considered significant for all analyses.

Results

The safe corridor insertion points were located within the caudal third of the vertebral body in C2 (mean cranial vertebral ratio 0.73) and in the cranial third of the vertebral bodies from C3–T1 (mean cranial vertebral ratios 0.34–0.38). Mean safe corridor widths ranged from 1.04 mm in C2 to 2.30 mm in C7 and T1. The mean right and left optimal angles of implantation were, respectively, 21.79° and 21.49° for C2, 45.26° and 46.19° for C3, 51.48° and 51.04° for C4, 53.52° and 54.30° for C5, 56.36° and 56.65° for C6, 63.40° and 64.92° for C7, and 53.90° and 52.90° for T1. There were statistically significant differences between vertebrae in almost every measurement.

Conclusions and relevance

Cervical vertebral safe corridors in cats are narrow and differ to those reported in dogs. Safe corridors are located in the caudal third of C2 and cranial third of the C3–T1 vertebral bodies. Current recommendations for implant sizes should be reviewed, as 1.5–2 mm implants would be oversized for bicortical implantation in most of the feline cervical vertebrae.
Case Report of Empagliflozin-Induced Cutaneous Polyarteritis Nodosa
Authors: To Derek , Bradshaw Scott , Lipson Jennifer
Published: February 2018

Polyarteritis nodosa (PAN) is a rare vasculitis affecting medium-sized vessels. Cutaneous PAN is a clinical variant, and we report the first case of empagliflozin-induced cutaneous PAN in a 69-year-old man. After starting empagliflozin, the patient presented with tender subcutaneous nodules on his legs, which showed a medium-sized vessel vasculitis on histopathology. Upon cessation of this medication, he had full resolution of these nodules. This case illustrates that empagliflozin can induce cutaneous PAN, and further attention to this medication’s association with cutaneous PAN is warranted.
Employment status is related to sleep problems in adults with autism spectrum disorder and no comorbid intellectual impairment
Authors: Baker Emma K , Richdale Amanda L , Hazi Agnes
Published: February 2018

Both sleep problems and unemployment are common in adults with autism spectrum disorder; however, little research has explored this relationship in this population. This study aimed to explore factors that may be associated with the presence of an International Classification of Sleep Disorders–Third Edition defined sleep disorder in adults with autism spectrum disorder (IQ > 80). A total of 36 adults with autism spectrum disorder and 36 controls were included in the study. Participants completed a 14-day actigraphy assessment and questionnaire battery. Overall, 20 adults with autism spectrum disorder met the International Classification of Sleep Disorders–Third Edition criteria for insomnia and/or a circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorder, while only 4 controls met criteria for these disorders. Adults with autism spectrum disorder and an International Classification of Sleep Disorders–Third Edition sleep disorder had higher scores on the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and were more likely to be unemployed compared to adults with autism spectrum disorder and no sleep disorder. The findings demonstrate, for the first time, that sleep problems are associated with unemployment in adults with autism spectrum disorder. Further research exploring the direction of this effect is required; sleep problems that have developed during adolescence make attainment of employment for those with autism spectrum disorder difficult, or unemployment results in less restrictions required for optimal and appropriate sleep timing.
Perusing pages and skimming screens: Exploring differing patterns of selective exposure to hard news and professional sources in online and print news
Authors: Pearson George DH , Knobloch-Westerwick Silvia
Published: February 2018

Changing structures to online news have instigated concerns that the electorate may predominantly consume soft news for entertainment purposes while neglecting public affairs information. The Internet in particular brought an increase in outlets, including unconventional low-credibility sources. A 2 × 2 × 2 within-subjects experiment ( n = 197) investigated whether delivery format (print vs online) and source type (high vs low credibility) shape the extent to which recipients select different types of news (public affairs news vs soft news). Participants browsed 32 news items, half of them hard news and the other half soft news, either associated with high- or low-credibility sources, and did so online or via print magazine. Results show that greater preference for online news fostered selective exposure to hard news. Greater habitual news use via social media reduced selective exposure to news from high-credibility sources.
Principals’ perspectives on faculty diversity in Qatar’s government schools
Authors: Romanowski Michael H. , Abu-Shawish Reem K. , Merouani Nora
Published: February 2018

Globalization requires the Gulf Cooperation Countries (GCC) to experience numerous economic, social, and educational changes. In particular, Qatar’s unprecedented economic growth has created a flow of high- and low-skilled expatriate workers resulting in a significant imbalance between nationals and expatriates. The implications are evident in Qatar’s government schools where approximately 72% of teachers are expatriates and 99% of the principals are Qatari nationals. Although diversity can enrich schools, it could create conflicts that might hamper the school’s success. Despite the large body of research on school leadership and student diversity, little is written about principals and faculty diversity especially within the GCC. Semi-structured interviews were used to explore 20 Qatari principals’ perspectives regarding their understandings of diversity and experiences with faculty diversity. Findings demonstrate that principals perceive diversity in terms of nationality. They experienced positive and negative influences of diversity and are confronted with challenges that often center on ethnical and cultural issues. Principals addressed how they manage the issues of nationality, culture, and equality. The study suggests that school leadership in a multicultural society such as Qatar demands more competencies to manage faculty diversity. Several recommendations are offered for principals for working with a diverse faculty.
Pyogenic infection of the hip joint as a complication of a femoral artery vascular access for percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Ucieklak Jaroslaw , Proczka Robert Michał
Published: February 2018

A rare case of clinical complication following a percutaneous coronary intervention is presented. A femoral vascular access was chosen to treat a coronary lesion with a stent implantation. This femoral vascular access, however, resulted in a pyogenic infection of the ipsilateral hip joint that was not properly diagnosed for an extended post-interventional period. The hip joint completely deteriorated before its underlying cause was identified. This case report illustrates the importance of recognizing potential endovascular complications independently of their frequency.
Low serum zinc levels predict presence of depression symptoms, but not overall disease outcome, regardless of ATG16L1 genotype in Crohn’s disease patients
Authors: Greuter Thomas , Franc Yannick , Kaelin Matthias , Schoepfer Alain M. , Schreiner Philipp , Zeitz Jonas , Scharl Michael , Misselwitz Benjamin , Straumann Alex , Vavricka Stephan R. , Rogler Gerhard , von Känel Roland , Biedermann Luc
Published: February 2018

Background:

Zinc deficiency (ZD) in Crohn’s disease (CD) is considered a frequent finding and may exacerbate CD activity. ZD is associated with depression in non-CD patients. We aimed to assess the prevalence of ZD in CD patients in clinical remission, its association with mood disturbances and to analyze a potential impact on future disease course.

Methods:

Zinc levels from CD patients in clinical remission at baseline and an uncomplicated disease course within the next 3 years ( n = 47) were compared with those from patients developing complications ( n = 50). Baseline symptoms of depression and anxiety were measured with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale.

Results:

Mean zinc level in the 97 patients (40.4 ± 15.7 years, 44.3% males) was 18.0 ± 4.7 μmol/l. While no ZD (<11 μmol/l) was observed, we found low zinc levels (<15.1 μmol/l) in 28 patients (28.9%). Males had higher zinc levels compared with females (19.4 ± 5.7 versus 16.8 ± 3.3, p = 0.006). Patients with low zinc levels more often reported depression symptoms compared with patients with higher levels (27.3 versus 9.4%, p = 0.047). In a multivariate analysis, zinc levels were an independent negative predictor for depression symptoms [odds ratio (OR) 0.727, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.532–0.993, p = 0.045]. Zinc levels of patients with a complicated disease course were not different from those of patients without (17.7 ± 4.3 versus 18.3 ± 5.1, n.s.). Baseline zinc levels did not predict disease outcome regardless of ATG16L1 genotype.

Conclusion:

Low–normal zinc levels were an independent predictor for the presence of depression symptoms in CD patients. Zinc levels at baseline did not predict a complicated disease course, neither in CD patients overall, nor ATG16L1T300A carriers.
Open cystectomy is still alive and well: Outcomes from a single-centre 6-year review
Authors: Dosis Alexios , Dhliwayo Blessing , Jones Patrick , Kovacevic Iva , Yee Jonathan , Ali Omer , Javle Pradip , Blades Rosie
Published: February 2018

Objectives:

To compare perioperative and oncological outcomes between open and laparoscopic radical cystectomy in a single-centre setting.

Materials and methods:

This study was a retrospective cohort (level 2b evidence) non-randomised review of 228 radical cystectomies that were performed between January 2010 and February 2016. Primary outcome measures were operative time, complications, blood loss and length of hospital stay. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS v21.0. Quantitative values were compared with Student’s t-test; categorical variables with the chi-square test. Statistical significance was considered a result of an alpha value less than 0.05. A Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was also conducted.

Results:

Intraoperative blood loss was lower in laparoscopic surgery (855±673 vs. 716±570 mL, P=0.15), which had a significant impact on transfusion rates ( P=0.02). Operative times were lower in open surgery (339±52.9 vs. 353.1±67.1 minutes, P=0.10), while hospital stay was lower in the laparoscopic group (14.2±11.2 vs. 16.0±13.6 days, P=0.28). Five-year survival rates were superior for patients who underwent an open procedure but were not statistically significant ( P=0.10).

Conclusion:

This is, so far, the largest cohort to compare laparoscopic and open radical cystectomy. The laparoscopic approach can reduce the need for transfusion; however, there was no statistically significant difference in complication rates, duration of surgery, length of hospital stay or intraoperative blood loss, survival and margin positivity.

Level of evidence:

Not applicable for this multicentre audit.
Evaluating the presence of marketing capabilities: A multidimensional, hierarchical index
Authors: Massiera Philippe , Trinchera Laura , Russolillo Giorgio
Published: February 2018

We propose a multidimensional instrument to assess the degree of presence of marketing capabilities a firm possesses, at three levels of abstraction. We first present the theoretical framework for marketing capabilities and discuss the main scales proposed by Vorhies et al. Then, we detail the steps required to develop and validate our third-order formative instrument. We assess the convergent and discriminant validity of the proposed instrument via partial least squares path modelling (PLS-PM) applied to a sample of 199 French small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Finally, we check the nomological validity of our instrument by testing the positive effect of marketing capabilities on organisational performance.
A qualitative study of the perspectives of key stakeholders on the delivery of clinical academic training in the East Midlands
Authors: Green Ruth H , Evans Val , MacLeod Sheona , Barratt Jonathan
Published: February 2018

Objective

Major changes in the design and delivery of clinical academic training in the United Kingdom have occurred yet there has been little exploration of the perceptions of integrated clinic academic trainees or educators. We obtained the views of a range of key stakeholders involved in clinical academic training in the East Midlands.

Design

A qualitative study with inductive iterative thematic content analysis of findings from trainee surveys and facilitated focus groups.

Setting

The East Midlands School of Clinical Academic Training.

Participants

Integrated Clinical Academic Trainees, clinical and academic educators involved in clinical academic training.

Main outcome measures

The experience, opinions and beliefs of key stakeholders about barriers and enablers in the delivery of clinical academic training.

Results

We identified key themes many shared by both trainees and educators. These highlighted issues in the systems and process of the integrated academic pathways, career pathways, supervision and support, the assessment process and the balance between clinical and academic training.

Conclusions

Our findings help inform the future development of integrated academic training programmes.
Obscuring Oppression: Racism, Cissexism, and the Persistence of Social Inequality
Authors: Sumerau J. E. , Denise Eric Joy
Published: February 2018

This article outlines a generic process in the reproduction of inequality the authors name obscuring oppression. On the basis of 35 in-depth interviews with college students seeking to make sense of two contemporary social movements, Black Lives Matter and Transgender Bathroom Access, the authors demonstrate three ways people obscure (i.e., avoid, ignore, hide, or explain away claims of) oppression in response to minority protest: trusting the public (i.e., suggesting that an educated public would not allow inequalities to persist), appealing to order (i.e., arguing that if protesters followed the rules, society would be more welcoming to change), and dismissing oppression (i.e., framing movement claims as false or exaggerated). In conclusion, the authors argue that examining processes of obscuring oppression may provide insight into (1) the persistence of inequality in society, (2) linkages between color-blind racism and systemic patterns of sexism and cissexism in society, and (3) potential reactions to other social movements seeking justice for marginalized groups.
The dog that barks doesn’t bite: coverage and compliance of sectoral minimum wages in Italy
Authors: Garnero Andrea
Published: February 2018

This paper provides a comprehensive portrait of the level and compliance with sectoral minimum wages in Italy between 2008 and 2015. The results show that wage floors in Italy are relatively high both in absolute terms and relative to the median wage. However, non-compliance rates are not negligible: on average, around 10% of workers are paid 20% less than the minimum wage established in their reference collective agreement. Non-compliance is particularly high in the South and in micro and small firms, and it affects especially women and temporary workers. Overall, wages in the bottom of the distribution appear to be largely unaffected by minimum wage increases. More effective enforcement practices are therefore needed to safeguard a level playing field for firms and ensure that minimum wage increases are effectively reflected in pay increases for workers at the bottom of the distribution.

JEL Classification

J08, J31, J52, J83
The alignment of law, practice and need in suicide prevention
Authors: Stallman Helen M. , Ohan Jeneva L.
Published: February 2018

Help-seeking is important for patients with suicidal ideation. Currently, a risk management paradigm is used with patients who express suicidality; however, this may limit support and increase stigma, reducing future help-seeking. Coping planning is proposed as a paradigm shift that overcomes these problems by focusing on patient needs and strengths.

Declaration of interest

None.
USP8 Mutations in Pituitary Cushing Adenomas—Targeted Analysis by Next-Generation Sequencing
Authors: Ballmann Cora , Thiel Anne , Korah Hannah E , Reis Anna-Carinna , Saeger Wolfgang , Stepanow Stefanie , Köhrer Karl , Reifenberger Guido , Knobbe-Thomsen Christiane B , Knappe Ulrich J , Scholl Ute I
Published: February 2018

Gain-of-function somatic mutations in the ubiquitin specific protease 8 (USP8) gene have recently been reported as a cause of pituitary adenomas in Cushing disease. Molecular diagnostic testing of tumor tissue may aid in the diagnosis of specimens obtained through therapeutic transsphenoidal surgery; however, for small tumors, availability of fresh tissue is limited, and contamination with normal tissue is frequent. We performed molecular testing of DNA isolated from single formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue sections of 42 pituitary adenomas from patients with Cushing disease (27 female patients and 15 male patients; mean age at surgery, 42.5 years; mean tumor size, 12.2 mm). By Sanger sequencing, we identified previously reported USP8 missense mutations in six tumors. Targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) revealed known or previously undescribed missense mutations in three additional tumors (two with two different mutations each), with mutant allele frequencies as low as 3%. Of the nine tumors with USP8 mutations (mutation frequency, 21.4%), seven were from female patients (mutation frequency, 25.9%), and two were from male patients (mutation frequency, 13.3%). Mutant tumors were on average 11.4 mm in size, and patients with mutations were on average 43.9 years of age. The overall USP8 mutation frequency in our cohort was lower than in previously described cohorts, and we did not observe USP8 deletions that were frequent in other cohorts. We demonstrate that testing for USP8 variants can be performed from small amounts of FFPE tissue. NGS showed higher sensitivity for USP8 mutation detection than did Sanger sequencing. Assessment for USP8 mutations may complement histopathological diagnosis.
ВЛИЯНИЕ МЕЖПОЛУШАРНОЙ ФУНКЦИОНАЛЬНОЙ АСИММЕТРИИ ГОЛОВНОГО МОЗГА НА ПЕРЦЕПТИВНЫЕ ПРОЦЕССЫ ЧЕЛОВЕКА
Authors: Surovyatkina Eugene Gtnnadyevna , Deryagina Larissa Evgenievna , Kosyginа Svetlana Viktorovna , Anikeeva Natalya Viktorovna
Published: February 2018

Целью работы было установление взаимосвязи между доминирующим полушарием головного мозга и протеканием перцептивных процессов личности курсантов вуза Министерства внутренних дел России. Изучение проблемы взаимосвязи особенностей протекания перцептивных процессов человека и мозговой латерализации функций дополняет сведения о профессиональной пригодности и надежности сотрудников силовых структур в рамках индивидуально-типологического подхода. Проведено экспериментально-психологическое исследование определения моторных и сенсорных асимметрий в системе измерений «рука-нога-ухо-глаз» (Е.Д. Хомская), выявлен ведущий аудиальный канал восприятия у испытуемых с левополушарным доминированием и кинестетический – у испытуемых с правополушарным доминированием. Особенности функционирования системы «ФМПА-восприятие» в группах с различным типом полушарного доминирования рекомендуется учитывать как в учебной и служебной деятельности курсантов, так и на этапе проведения профессионального отбора.