bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Limits to the rate of information transmission through MAPK pathway
Authors: Grabowski Frederic , Czyż Paweł , Kochańczyk Marek , Lipniacki Tomasz
Published: August 2018

Two important signaling pathways of NF-κB and ERK transmit merely one bit of information about the level of extracellular stimulation. It is thus unclear how such systems can coordinate complex cell responses to external cues. Here, we analyze information transmission in the MAPK/ERK pathway that features relaxation oscillations and responds to EGF by pulses of activated ERK. Based on an experimentally verified computational model of the MAPK/ERK pathway, we demonstrate that when input sequences of EGF pulses are transcoded to output sequences of ERK activity pulses, transmitted information increases nearly linearly with time. Moreover, the information channel capacity C (defined as the upper limit of information that can be transmitted over a sufficiently long time t, divided by t), is not limited by the bandwidth B = 1/τ, where τ ≈ 1 hour is the relaxation time. Specifically, when input is provided in the form of sequences of short binary EGF pulses separated by varying intervals that are multiples of τ/n (but are not shorter than τ), then for n = 2, C ≈ 1.39 bit/hour; and for n = 4, C ≈ 1.86 bit/hour. We hypothesize that the primary mode of operation of the MAPK pathway is to translate extracellular growth factor “bursts” into precisely timed intracellular ERK “spikes” of a predefined amplitude. Such pulse-interval transcoding allows to relay more information than the amplitude–amplitude transcoding considered previously for the ERK and NF-κB pathways.

Author summary

To coordinate their actions, cells communicate with each other by sending, receiving, and interpreting cytokine signals. Cells recognize chemical identity of signaling molecules and process quantitative and temporal properties of stimulation: amplitude, duration, or frequency. Previous studies indicated that the MAPK pathway transmits about one bit of information about the amplitude (concentration) of a stimulating cytokine, EGF. Sending more information may be enabled by temporal signal modulation. Here, we use the conceptual framework of information theory to support a hypothesis that the MAPK pathway, analyzed as a noisy information channel, reaches maximum information transmission rate when receiving sequences of EGF pulses that are transcoded to sequences of activity pulses of an effector kinase of the pathway, ERK. Since the pathway resetting time is about 1 hour, one could expect that—when sending EGF pulses of “0” or “1” amplitude every hour—the pathway is able transmit up to 1 bit per hour. We show, however, that when EGF pulses are separated by intervals that are not shorter than 1 hour and are multiples of 15 min (60, 75, 90 min, etc.), information rate can be nearly 2 bits per hour. We hypothesize that high information rate is necessary to control cell proliferation and motility.
Imperfect Bayesian inference in visual perception
Authors: Stengård Elina , van den Berg Ronald
Published: August 2018

Optimal Bayesian models have been highly successful in describing human performance on perceptual decision-making tasks, such as cue combination and visual search. However, recent studies have argued that these models are often overly flexible and therefore lack explanatory power. Moreover, there are indications that neural computation is inherently imprecise, which makes it implausible that humans would perform optimally on any non-trivial task. Here, we reconsider human performance on a visual search task by using an approach that constrains model flexibility and tests for computational imperfections. Subjects performed a target detection task in which targets and distractors were tilted ellipses with orientations drawn from Gaussian distributions with different means. We varied the amount of overlap between these distributions to create multiple levels of external uncertainty. We also varied the level of sensory noise, by testing subjects under both short and unlimited display times. On average, empirical performance – measured as d’ – fell 18.1% short of optimal performance. We found no evidence that the magnitude of this suboptimality was affected by the level of internal or external uncertainty. The data were well accounted for by a Bayesian model with imperfections in its computations. This “imperfect Bayesian” model convincingly outperformed the “flawless Bayesian” model as well as all ten heuristic models that we tested. These results suggest that perception is founded on Bayesian principles, but with suboptimalities in the implementation of these principles. The view of perception as imperfect Bayesian inference can provide a middle ground between traditional Bayesian and anti-Bayesian views.

Author summary

The main task of perceptual systems is to make truthful inferences about the environment. The sensory input to these systems is often astonishingly imprecise, which makes human perception prone to error. Nevertheless, numerous studies have reported that humans often perform as accurately as is possible given these sensory imprecisions. This suggests that the brain makes optimal use of the sensory input and computes without error. The validity of this claim has recently been questioned for two reasons. First, it has been argued that a lot of the evidence for optimality comes from studies that used overly flexible models. Second, optimality in human perception is implausible due to limitations inherent to neural systems. In this study, we reconsider optimality in a standard visual perception task by devising a research method that addresses both concerns. In contrast to previous studies, we find clear indications of suboptimalities. Our data are best explained by a model that is based on the optimal decision strategy, but with imperfections in its execution.
Inflexible stoichiometry in bulk pyrite FeS2 as viewed by in situ and high-resolution X-ray diffraction
Authors: McAuliffe Rebecca D. , Shoemaker Daniel P.
Published: August 2018

Non-stoichiometry is considered to be one of the main problems limiting iron pyrite, FeS2, as a photovoltaic absorber material. Although some historical diffraction experiments have implied a large solubility range of FeS2−δ with δ up to 0.25, the current consensus based on calculated formation energies of intrinsic defects has lent support to line-compound behavior. Here it is shown that pyrite stoichiometry is relatively inflexible in both reductive conditions and in autogenous sulfur partial pressure, which produces samples with precise stoichiometry of FeS2 even at different Fe/S ratios. By properly standardizing in situ gas-flow X-ray diffraction measurements, no significant changes in the lattice parameter of FeS2 can be resolved, which portrays iron pyrite as prone to forming sulfur-deficient compounds, but not intrinsic defects in the manner of NiS2−δ.
Novel tantalum phosphate Na13Sr2Ta2(PO4)9: synthesis, crystal structure, DFT calculations and Dy3+-activated fluorescence performance
Authors: Zhao Ji , Zhao Dan , Xue Ya-Li , Zhong Qiu , Zhang Shi-Rui , Liu Bao-Zhong
Published: August 2018

A new tantalum phosphate, tridecasodium distrontium ditantalum nonaphosphate, Na13Sr2Ta2(PO4)9, was prepared using the high-temperature flux method. The structure can be described as a three-dimensional open framework containing isolated [TaV2(PO4)9]17−units that are interlocked by Na and Sr ions. Band structure studies by the first-principles method revealed that Na13Sr2Ta2(PO4)9is an insulator with an indirect band gap of 4.78 eV, which makes it suitable as a luminescent host matrix. A series of solid solutions,i.e.Na13Sr2–xTa2(PO4)9:xDy3+(x= 0.01, 0.02, 0.04, 0.06, 0.08, 0.1, 0.12 and 0.14), were prepared and their photoluminescence properties studied. Under 350 nm light excitation, these emit two typical emissions of the Dy3+ion,i.e.the4F9/2→6H15/2transition centred at 476 nm and the4F9/2→6H13/2transition centred at 570 nm.
Sartrean bad-faith? Site-specific social, ethical and environmental disclosures by multinational mining companies
Authors: Khalid Sharif Mahmud , Atkins Jill , Barone Elisabetta
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate why environmentally-sensitive companies still face criticism despite the extensive disclosures in their annual reports. This paper explores the extent of site-specific social, environmental and ethical (SEE) reporting by mining companies operating in Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conduct an interpretive content analysis of the annual/integrated reports of mining companies for the years 2009–2014 to extract site-specific SEE information relating to the companies’ mining operations in Ghana. The authors also theorise these actions using the existentialist work of Jean-Paul Sartre, in particular his work on “bad faith, nothingness and authenticity”.

Findings

The findings suggest that SEE information disclosure at site-specific level remains problematic because of bad faith and inauthenticity by mining companies attempting to placate a range of stakeholders. Bad faith represents a form of self-deception or internal denial which manifests in corporate narratives. Inauthenticity is a self-awareness that culminates in the denunciation of corporate identity and the pursuit of external expectations. The effect is the production of inauthentic corporate accounts that is constrained by the assumption made on stakeholder expectation.

Originality/value

The authors apply a Sartrean lens to explore site-specific SEE. Furthermore, the authors seek to expand the social accounting research domain by drawing on Sartre’s work on “bad faith” and “nothingness”. Sartre’s work to the best of the authors’ knowledge is not explored in social accounting research.
Inclusive school practices supporting the primary to secondary transition for autistic children: pupil, teacher, and parental perspectives
Authors: Hoy Keri , Parsons Sarah , Kovshoff Hanna
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The primary to secondary school transition can have a significant and long-lasting impact on young people. Autistic children are particularly vulnerable to negative transition experiences; however, there is a lack of research examining effective practices and provision for these pupils. This case study involves a mainstream secondary school in the South of England, which has a dedicated Learning Support base. The purpose of this paper is to collect qualitative data on experiences of the primary to secondary school transition from multiple stakeholders.

Design/methodology/approach

A photovoice activity followed by a semi-structured interview was conducted with five autistic pupils aged 12–16 years; semi-structured interviews were also carried out with six parents and four teachers.

Findings

Five key themes emerged from the data in relation to effective practices: inclusion, child-centred approach, familiarisation, visual supports and communication and consistency.

Research limitations/implications

As a small-scale case study, there are limitations regarding generalisation. However, this research illuminates transition practices that are experienced as effective by autistic children, their families and teachers.

Practical implications

Practical implications related to each of these themes are highlighted. These implications are important in the context of the mandatory responsibilities of schools in England to include the voices of children and young people with special educational needs in decisions about their education.

Originality/value

The findings challenge a rights-based approach to inclusion and illustrate the importance of a needs-based approach which appropriately recognises and understands what autism means for children, their families and the teachers who support them.
Banking “on-the-go”: examining consumers’ adoption of mobile banking services
Authors: Zhang Tingting , Lu Can , Kizildag Murat
Published: August 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to examine consumers’ adoption of mobile technology to facilitate their banking services and activities, and to investigate the factors influencing their adoption and engagement.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey is used to test proposed relationships between factors and consumers’ mobile banking adoption. Structural equation modeling is performed to analyze consumers’ intentions toward mobile banking.

Findings

Traditional technology acceptance model factors – perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use – are identified as effective factors in influencing consumers to adopt mobile technology for facilitating banking services. Moreover, technology safety concerns, including reliability and privacy factors, are found to play an important role in motivating consumers to embrace mobile banking. The “fun” feature of the technology and consumers’ innovativeness characteristics are considered important in influencing mobile banking adoption. Trust in the banks has its predominant role in mobile technology adoption for banking services.

Practical implications

A bank gaining trust from its clients is key to active adoption of mobile banking technology. Bankers are advised to pay more attention to reliability and privacy features when designing and promoting mobile banking technology to consumers. Moreover, advertisements to bank clients should stress the “fun” aspects of the mobile banking apps to attract them to the use of mobile banking technology.

Originality/value

This paper investigates the factors influencing bank consumers to adopting mobile banking apps to facilitate their banking services. Nine key factors in the technology adoption area are examined to provide a comprehensive understanding of bank clients’ use of mobile banking apps, which advances the understanding of mobile technology applied in the banking industry in the literature.
Social control and the institutionalization of human rights as an ethical framework for media and ICT corporations
Authors: Sarikakis Katharine , Korbiel Izabela , Piassaroli Mantovaneli Wagner
Published: August 2018

Purpose

This paper is concerned with the place of human rights in the process of technological development but specifically as this process is situated within the corporate-technological complex of modern digital communications and their derivatives. This paper aims to argue that expecting and institutionalizing the incorporation of human rights in the process of technological innovation and production, particularly in the context of global economic actors, constitutes a necessary act if we want to navigate the immediate future of artificial intelligence and ubiquitous connectivity in ways that protect democracy and human dignity.

Design/methodology/approach

The discussion presents the case for defending human rights through a social control perspective, which assumes the conscious quest for impacting change and cartographing a path of actions and intentions. The authors approach the problem from James Ralph Beniger’s theory of the Control Revolution (1986) to explain the emergence of a new social order and to outline the main challenges brought particularly by media and information and communication technology (ICT) corporations as global actors of power.

Findings

Ethics initiatives, considering human rights as an ethical framework for media and ICT businesses, can be based on social control perspectives to regard the more complex variables interacting in the formation of effective policy making. It is the right to participate in the construction of knowledge in society and, informed by this knowledge, help manage or control democratic issues, including influencing on the regulation of technology and other cultural formats of control (Altheide, 1995). Knowing social control tools enable citizens to lead their destinies, plan their freedom and the change what they wish in the societies they live in.

Originality/value

Social control is often understood as a term taken for granted and many times faced as representing malignant and anti-democratic forms. Here, the authors try to build a theoretical ground where both sides – the benign and the malignant – can be taken in consideration to bring awareness to the need to discuss social control as a democratic endeavor, and consider human rights as part of this and not something apart and idealized. The practice of human rights is directly associated with social control forms and is from within these practices individuals must understand its role on social control and act.
Establishing high value markets for data-driven customer relationship management systems
Authors: Chiang Wen-Yu
Published: August 2018

Purpose

Online customer relationship management (CRM) is an important issue for implementing digital marketing of electronic commerce or social commerce. The purpose of this study is to establish valuable markets for discovering customer knowledge from data-driven CRM systems for enhancing growth rates of businesses. Airline or travel agency industries are online businesses in the world. Therefore, the industries in Taiwan will be an empirical case for this study.

Design/methodology/approach

This research applied a procedure with an applied proposed model for establishing valuable markets from data-driven CRM systems. However, the study used a proposed customer value model (recency, frequency and monetary [RFM]; RFM model-based), the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) procedure and a proposed equation for estimating customer values.

Findings

For enhancing the data-driven CRM marketing of the industries, in this research, the market of air travelers can be partitioned into eight markets by the proposed model. As well, the markets can be ranked by the AHP procedure. Furthermore, the travelers’ customer values can be estimated by a proposed customer value equation.

Originality/value

Via the applied proposed procedure, online airlines, travel agencies or other online businesses can implement the research procedure as their data-driven marketing strategy on their online large-scale or Big Data customers’ databases for enhancing sales rates.
Library stakeholder attitudes and new technology
Authors: Larson Ronald
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide advice for library managers on the collection of feedback from stakeholders. An example of radio frequency identification (RFID) is used to illustrate what can be learned and how decisions can be improved with this feedback.

Design/methodology/approach

The stakeholder, RFID and library literature are reviewed and lessons for improving future technology decisions are developed. The results of a direct-mail survey of 394 members of the general public in the Midwest illustrate the insights that can be gained with marketing research.

Findings

Many libraries appear to have neglected getting feedback from some stakeholders before implementing RFID tagging of materials. Gathering specific information from local stakeholders (including some that are only indirectly influenced by a decision) can help improve the odds of initiative success. Regular dialogs with stakeholder groups can help librarians track progress of programs, identify issues and prepare response strategies.

Practical implications

If librarians had conducted surveys about RFID or self-service checkouts when the technologies were under consideration, they would have gained a greater appreciation of the concerns some individuals had. Dialogs could have been started, educational events could have been planned and other responses could have been developed. The stakeholders to be regularly consulted should include individuals who are indirectly affected by the library. These lessons can be followed when librarians consider other initiatives.

Originality/value

This paper offers library leaders new insights into when and how to gather information from stakeholders. Tips are offered to improve the effectiveness of surveys and focus groups.
The current status of innovation in the university libraries of Pakistan
Authors: Awais Sania , Ameen Kanwal
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the current status of innovations in the university libraries of Pakistan because the desire for reshaping the university libraries is now necessary to fulfill the mission of higher education, i.e. to be competitive and compatible in the international market.

Design/methodology/approach

The content is based on the literature. For this purpose, the researchers’ 20 years’ experience and the websites of all the 183 universities of Pakistan have been reviewed. A checklist of 40 innovations (Jantz, 2013), used in ACRL libraries and prepared by the researcher, is used as a yardstick to measure the innovation status of university libraries.

Findings

The findings indicate that a large majority of university libraries, ranging from 70 to 100 percent, have not adopted these innovations. Only 15 percent of university libraries all over Pakistan are relatively better on the innovation adoption scale.

Research limitations/implications

The data are explored by reviewing the websites of university libraries of Pakistan. Viewpoint of librarian and administrators of university librarian is not taken at this stage.

Practical implications

It will be helpful for the practitioner community to brain think on serious grounds for future improvements by having a clear picture of current status.

Social implications

By analyzing the standings of university libraries of Pakistan vs developed countries, the professionals would get awareness and they might be take initiatives for extending the services suitable and compatible with the present and future needs of users. Ultimately, profession and users satisfaction could be obtained.

Originality/value

The aspects discussed in the context of Pakistan may catch the attention of policy makers for the sake of improvement of university libraries, and growth of their professionals. It is further assumed that this situation is similar to the other neighboring developing countries. So, the work will raise the awareness among professionals of other countries too.
Evaluation of epicardial adipose tissue volume and coronary artery calcification in Japanese patients with psoriasis vulgaris
Authors: Momose Mami , Asahina Akihiko , Fukuda Takeshi , Sakuma Toru , Umezawa Yoshinori , Nakagawa Hidemi
Published: August 2018

Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) is implicated in the development of coronary atherosclerosis by secretion of inflammatory adipocytokines. Recent studies have shown significantly higher EAT volume in psoriatic patients compared with that in control subjects, but this has not been validated in Japanese patients. We enrolled 86 Japanese patients with moderate to severe psoriasis vulgaris and 31 control subjects, and evaluated EAT volume and coronary artery calcification (CAC) by retrospectively assessing non‐enhanced computed tomography obtained through routine examinations. Both mean EAT volume and mean CAC score were not significantly different between the two groups. Interestingly, however, a subanalysis with those of 50 years of age or less (28 psoriatic patients and seven non‐psoriatic subjects) showed significantly higher mean EAT volume in psoriatic patients. Similarly, the ratio of the presence of at least one CAC was significantly higher in this group. Our findings suggest that Japanese psoriatic patients should also be aware of the cardiovascular risk, and EAT volume and CAC may be useful tools to predict such risk.
The moral orders of work and health: a case of sick leave due to burnout
Authors: Maija Korhonen , Katri Komulainen
Published: August 2018

Being on sick leave due to burnout entails a high level of accountability. Persons suffering from burnout do not automatically play a legitimate sick role because of the fuzziness of the burnout concept. In addition, while being on sick leave, they are in a non‐working position, which is against the ideals of work‐centred society. Therefore, they are required to explain their ‘deviant’ situation. Drawing on the interview data, the article explores how sick leave is explained and justified in narrative accounts by Finnish burnout sufferers. Results show that sick leave makes the moral orders of work, health and illness visible. Sick leave as a process involves negotiation of one's status and worth in the categories of ‘respectable employee’ and ‘credible patient’. A transition to sick leave requires causal explanations of burnout, which aim to legitimate ill‐being. Being on sick leave creates an obligation for activity and productivity that is ‘work‐like’ management of health. The study shows the fundamental level at which work structures everyday life, routines, and habits in the work‐centred society. In this context, burnout sufferers struggle to legitimise their work‐related distress and absence from work and restore their morally worthy identities.
Expression of inflammasome complex mRNA and its targeted microRNA in type 2 diabetes mellitus: A possible predictor of the severity of diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Bhattacharjee Chandra K. , Paine Suman K. , Mahanta Jagadish , Borphukan Sawjib , Borah Prasanta K.
Published: August 2018

Highlights

Concomitant elevated expression of Caspase‐1 in respect of reduced eGFR among DN may serve as better explainable marker for the adverse prognosis of the disease

Study may open new horizon to understand patho‐mechanism with the aid of Inflammasome‐complex.
Progesterone and cyclic adenosine monophosphate down‐regulate CD90 in the stromal cells of human decidua. In vitro evidence and in situ findings
Authors: Vinketova Кameliya , Karagyozov Iliya , Koleva Vesselina , Hristov Michael , Mourdjeva Milena , Sperandio Markus , Oreshkova Tsvetelina
Published: August 2018

Objective

CD90 is a glycoprotein involved in leukocyte relocation and cell differentiation. CD90 is expressed in endothelial and stromal cells in human endometrium; however, its role in the remodeling of the decidual tissue during pregnancy is poorly understood. Here, we investigate how CD90 expression in decidual stromal cells (DSCs) is regulated.

Method of Study

The native CD90 receptor in stromal cells in decidua was investigated via histology. We further develop in vitro culture of DSCs which allows us to test the effects of hormones and paracrine signals on CD90 expression.

Results

Stromal cells in first‐trimester human decidua display heterogeneous levels of CD90 expression. In vitro analyses reveal that progesterone, a factor normally secreted by trophoblast cells in the placenta, and extracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate, a known downstream signaling messenger of progesterone, reduce CD90 expression in DSCs by ~30%. This reduction in CD90 expression correlates with a change toward a more highly differentiated cell state.

Conclusion

DSCs in early pregnancy show different levels of CD90 expression, suggesting different DSC differentiation and selective interactions with cells during decidual morphogenesis.
Ophthalmological findings in neuroborreliosis – a prospective study performed in western Sweden
Authors: Škiljić Dragana , Gustavsson Martin , Dotevall Leif , Norrsell Kerstin , Grönlund Marita Andersson
Published: August 2018

Purpose

To evaluate and follow‐up ophthalmological findings in individuals diagnosed with neuroborreliosis, confirmed by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis.

Methods

Twenty‐four individuals (13 males), mean age 43.5 ± 18.2 years, with strong clinical suspicion of neuroborreliosis, were referred to the Department of Ophthalmology by the Department of Infectious Diseases at Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden. All subjects underwent serological and CSF analysis. A structured history taking and a detailed ophthalmological examination were performed prospectively.

Results

Diagnosis for neuroborreliosis was confirmed as definite in 16, possible in two and negative in four individuals, while two had unknown diagnosis. The majority (n = 14/18) with definite and possible diagnoses had ophthalmological symptoms and/or findings either in history or at examination. The most common findings were visual disturbance, diplopia, red eyes, photophobia, facial palsy with palpebral diastasis, strabismus and sixth nerve palsy. The number of symptoms and findings was correlated with immunoglobulin G (IgG)/IgM in CSF (r = 0.6, p = 0.009/0.016; Spearman's correlation). All subjects improved, except one with initially fulminant papilloedema, who still suffered from optic disc atrophy and affected visual fields at the last follow‐up.

Conclusion

The majority of patients diagnosed with neuroborreliosis had ophthalmological symptoms and/or findings. Facial palsy with palpebral diastasis was a common finding. Onset of diplopia and/or sixth nerve affection may be a first sign of neuroborreliosis. Number of ophthalmological findings was correlated with the CSF antibody titre. Ticks are becoming more widespread and abundant, resulting in a higher incidence of neuroborreliosis. Hence, the knowledge of ophthalmological symptoms and findings is of great importance.
A multicenter study to evaluate pulmonary function in osteogenesis imperfecta
Authors: Tam Allison , Chen Shan , Schauer Evan , Grafe Ingo , Bandi Venkata , Shapiro Jay R. , Steiner Robert D. , Smith Peter A. , Bober Michael B. , Hart Tracy , Cuthbertson David , Krischer Jeffrey , Mullins Mary , Byers Peter H. , Sandhaus Robert A. , Durigova Michaela , Glorieux Francis H. , Rauch Frank , Reid Sutton Vernon , Lee Brendan ,   Members of the Brittle Bone Disorders Consortium, Rush Eric T. , Nagamani Sandesh C.S.
Published: August 2018

Pulmonary complications are a significant cause for morbidity and mortality in osteogenesis imperfecta (OI). However, to date, there have been few studies that have systematically evaluated pulmonary function in individuals with OI. We analyzed spirometry measurements, including forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1), in a large cohort of individuals with OI (n = 217) enrolled in a multicenter, observational study. We show that individuals with the more severe form of the disease, OI type III, have significantly reduced FVC and FEV1 which do not follow the expected trends of the normal population. We also show that “normalization” of FVC and FEV1 using general population data to generate percent predicted values underestimates the pulmonary involvement in OI. Within each subtype of OI, we used linear mixed models to find potential correlations between FEV1 and FVC with the clinical variables including mobility, bisphosphonate use, and scoliosis. Our results are an important step in understanding the extent of pulmonary involvement in individuals with OI and for developing pulmonary endpoints for use in the routine patient care as well as in the investigation of new therapies.
Rhinosinusitis symptoms, smoking and COPD: Prevalence and associations
Authors: Caminha Guilherme Pilla , Pizzichini Emilio , Lubianca Neto José Faibes , Hopkins Claire , Moreira José da Silva , Pizzichini Marcia Margaret Menezes
Published: August 2018

Objective (s)

To estimate the prevalence and associations among rhinosinusitis symptoms, smoking and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Population‐based.

Participants

All adults aged 40 years or more living in the selected households in the city of Florianópolis (Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil).

Main outcome measures

Assessment instruments comprised household interviews, anthropometric measurements and spirometry. Rhinosinusitis symptoms were based on the responses to the 22‐item Sinonasal Outcome Test (SNOT‐22) questionnaire; smoking status was defined by the criteria of the CDC, and the functional diagnosis of COPD was done by spirometry.

Results

The prevalence (n = 1056) of rhinosinusitis symptoms, smoking and COPD was 14.7%, 17.9% and 8.7%, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that, with the exception of COPD, all other clinical variables (smoking, previous diagnosis of rhinitis, previous diagnosis of gastritis/ulcer/gastroesophageal reflux, and symptoms of depression) remained associated with higher prevalence of rhinosinusitis symptoms.

Conclusions

Rhinosinusitis symptoms were common both in smokers and in patients with COPD. However, only tobacco was significantly associated with rhinosinusitis symptoms and can act as a cofounder in the association between COPD and rhinosinusitis symptoms.
Frog occupancy of polluted wetlands in urban landscapes
Authors: Sievers Michael , Hale Robin , Swearer Stephen E. , Parris Kirsten M.
Published: August 2018

Urban sprawl and the rising popularity of water‐sensitive urban design of urban landscapes has led to a global surge in the number of wetlands constructed to collect and treat stormwater runoff in cities. However, contaminants, such as heavy metals and pesticides, in stormwater adversely affect the survival, growth, and reproduction of animals inhabiting these wetlands. A key question is whether wildlife can identify and avoid highly polluted wetlands. We investigated whether pond‐breeding frogs are attempting to breed in wetlands that affect the fitness of their offspring across 67 urban wetlands in Melbourne, Australia. Frog species richness and the concentration of contaminants (heavy metals and pesticides) were not significantly related, even in the most polluted wetlands. The proportion of fringing vegetation at a wetland had the greatest positive influence on the number of frog species present and the probability of occurrence of individual species, indicating that frogs inhabited wetlands with abundant vegetation, regardless of their pollution status. These wetlands contained contaminant levels similar to urban wetlands around the world at levels that reduce larval amphibian survival. These results are, thus, likely generalizable to other areas, suggesting that urban managers could inadvertently be creating ecological traps in countless cities. Wetlands are important tools for the management of urban stormwater runoff, but their construction should not facilitate declines in wetland‐dependent urban wildlife.
Health‐related quality of life and long‐term outcomes after endoscopic therapy for walled‐off pancreatic necrosis
Authors: Smith Zachary L. , Gregory Martin H. , Elsner Jeffrey , Alajlan Bader A. , Kodali Divya , Hollander Thomas , Sayuk Gregory S. , Lang Gabriel D. , Das Koushik K. , Mullady Daniel K. , Early Dayna S. , Kushnir Vladimir M.
Published: August 2018

Background and Aim

Walled‐off pancreatic necrosis (WON) frequently develops after necrotizing pancreatitis. Endoscopic drainage has become the preferred modality for symptomatic or infected WON. The aim of the present study was to assess health‐related quality of life (HR‐QOL) and long‐term outcomes in patients undergoing endoscopic drainage for WON.

Methods

Patients undergoing endoscopic drainage of WON from January 2006 to May 2016 were identified. Data recorded included demographic information, and the incidence of long‐term sequelae including pancreatic endocrine and exocrine insufficiency. Attempts were made to contact all patients. HR‐QOL was assessed using the SF‐36 questionnaire.

Results

Eighty patients were analyzed, 41 (51.3%) of whom completed the SF‐36. One‐year all‐cause mortality was 6.2%, and disease‐related mortality was 3.7%. A notable proportion of patients developed exocrine insufficiency (32.5%), endocrine insufficiency (27.7%), and long‐term opiate use (42.5%). Development of exocrine insufficiency was predictive of lower total SF‐36 scores (P = 0.016). Patients with WON had better HR‐QOL compared with cohorts of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). In patients developing exocrine insufficiency versus healthy controls, poorer scores in the physical role (P < 0.001), general health (P < 0.001), vitality (P = 0.001), and emotional role (P = 0.029) domains were observed. Exocrine insufficiency patients had better HR‐QOL than the IBS and IBD cohorts, although these differences were less pronounced.

Conclusion

After undergoing endoscopic drainage for WON, patients have relatively preserved HR‐QOL. The subset of patients that develop exocrine insufficiency have significantly poorer HR‐QOL compared to healthy controls, although not to the degree of chronic gastrointestinal disorders such as IBS and IBD.
Child and Adolescent Intellectual Disability Screening Questionnaire to identify children with intellectual disability
Authors: McKenzie Karen , Murray George , Murray Aja , Delahunty Lauren , Hutton Linda , Murray Kara , O'Hare Anne
Published: August 2018

Aim

To evaluate the psychometric properties of the Child and Adolescent Intellectual Disability Screening Questionnaire (CAIDS‐Q) in paediatric neurodevelopment clinics.

Method

Participants were 181 children (aged 6–18y) attending paediatric services in Scotland, divided into three age groups according to previous CAIDS‐Q standardization cut‐off scores. Fifty‐four children (37 males, 17 females; mean age 117mo [SD 29.9mo]) met the criteria for intellectual disability and 127 did not (88 males, 39 females; mean age 120.1mo [SD 32.7mo]). A number of psychometric properties of the CAIDS‐Q were evaluated, including test–retest and interrater reliability, convergent validity, sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values based on existing cut‐off scores.

Results

Significant positive relationships were found for all three age groups between CAIDS‐Q scores and measures of intellectual and adaptive functioning. Test–retest reliability ranged from ‘moderate’ to ‘almost perfect’, whereas interrater reliability ranged from ‘fair’ to ‘almost perfect’. Sensitivity and positive predictive value were 100% for all groups and specificity was between 83% and 94%, depending on age. Negative predictive values ranged from 75% to 91%.

Interpretation

The CAIDS‐Q appears to show psychometric properties that support its use as a screen for intellectual disability in paediatric neurodevelopmental settings.

What this paper adds

The Child and Adolescent Intellectual Disability Screening Questionnaire showed good psychometric properties.

It identified all participating children who met the criteria for intellectual disability.

Between 83% and 94% of children without intellectual disability were also correctly identified.
Left ventricular volumes and ejection fraction quantification using an automated three‐dimensional adaptive analytic echocardiographic algorithm in pediatric population
Authors: Carvajal‐Rivera José J. , López‐Quintero Johanna C. , González‐Menchén Cristina , de Agustín José Alberto , Macaya Carlos , Pérez de Isla Leopoldo
Published: August 2018

Introduction

The quantitative measurement of the left ventricle by echocardiography is a fundamental tool in the diagnosis and prognosis of acquired and congenital diseases in the pediatric population. The objective of this study was to validate an automated three‐dimensional adaptive analytic echocardiographic algorithm, the so‐called Heart Model® (HM) in the pediatric population, using as comparators the left atrial and left ventricular volumes and left ventricular ejection fraction obtained by means of conventional 2D and 3D echocardiography.

Methods

Pilot study, where a population comprised of 75 consecutive patients aged 6–17 years who attended a pediatric cardiology clinic, was evaluated. Every patient underwent a conventional 2D and 3D echocardiography and an analysis using HM. Conventional 3D echo was used as the reference method.

Results

Seventy‐five patients were analyzed. Mean age was 11.2 (4.0) years (52.2% women). The intraclass correlation coefficient of HM vs 2D echo was poor, but it was good for the agreement between HM and 3D echo for left ventricular end‐diastolic volume (ICC: 0.98; 95% CI: 0.97–0.99; P < 0.001), left ventricular end‐systolic volume ICC: 0.98; 95% CI: 0.96–0.99; P = 0.001), and left ventricular ejection fraction (ICC: 0.87; 95% CI: 0.78–0.92; P < 0.001). The agreement was also good for the three parameters when the analysis was performed according to body weight.

Conclusions

Heart Model® is a feasible and accurate tool for the evaluation of left atrial and left ventricular volumes and left ventricular ejection fraction in pediatric population aged above 6 years.
Implementation of the modified four‐step approach method for teaching echocardiography using the FATE protocol—A pilot study
Authors: Skrzypek Agnieszka , Górecki Tomasz , Krawczyk Paweł , Podolec Mateusz , Cebula Grzegorz , Jabłoński Konrad , Szeliga Marta , Nowakowski Michał
Published: August 2018

Introduction

Peyton's four‐step approach is well‐known and commonly used in medical education. It is a practical and useful method which is simple to apply. The study presents the implementation of the modified four‐step approach method to teach how to perform the emergency echocardiographic assessment according to FATE (Focus‐Assessed Transthoracic Echo) protocol. The aim of the study was to determine the feasibility and utility of this method FATE protocol teaching.

Design

We collected students' feedback relating to perception of this way of teaching. Based on a semistructured interview conducted with the students, as well as an evaluation of the electronic survey, it has been demonstrated that the four‐step method is useful for teaching emergency echocardiographic assessment.

Setting

One Polish medical school.

Participants

The classes were run in small groups as part of an elective ultrasound course for the fourth‐ and fifth‐year students of the Faculty of Medicine of the Medical College. Twenty‐two students were trained.

Results

Based on the opinions of the participants of the elective course and the teacher conducting the classes, which involved the use of the modified Peyton's four‐step method in teaching echocardiography in emergency cases according to the FATE protocol, it has been determined that the four‐step method is effective in imaging training. All participants claim that this method is clear and understandable. Advantages of the methodological approach: a slow‐motion demonstration by the instructor, accompanied by the commentary on the activities undertaken and practical exercises performed by the participants, learning through repetition, requirement of constant concentration.

Conclusions

Peyton's approach allows to use of the class time in maximal extend by consolidating new information and facilitating memorization through adequate instructor guidance and observation of the training of the peer students and repetition of the skills acquired.
Trade liberalization and the wage–skill premium: Evidence from Vietnamese manufacturing
Authors: Bhattacharya Mita , Nguyen Kien Trung
Published: August 2018

This paper examines the wage–skill premium in Vietnamese manufacturing since the reform programme. The effects of tariff reductions on the wage–skill premium are analyzed in the presence of exporting opportunities, foreign investment, and research and development. The findings with firm‐level data reveal that a 10‐ percentage point fall in output tariffs is associated with a 4 percent increase in the wage–skill premium. The wage–skill premium in foreign‐invested enterprises is 40 percent higher than that of domestic enterprises. Trade liberalization influences the wage–skill premium in the presence of foreign ownership and R&D, while its impact on the skill premium only works through exporting.
Long‐term outcomes of status epilepticus: A critical assessment
Authors: Sculier Claudine , Gaínza‐Lein Marina , Sánchez Fernández Iván , Loddenkemper Tobias
Published: August 2018

We reviewed 37 studies reporting long‐term outcomes after a status epilepticus (SE) episode in pediatric and adult populations. Study design, length of follow‐up, outcome measures, domains investigated (mortality, SE recurrence, subsequent epilepsy, cognitive outcome, functional outcome, or quality of life), and predictors of long‐term outcomes are summarized. Despite heterogeneity in the design of prior studies, overall risk of poor long‐term outcome after SE is high in both children and adults. Etiology is the main determinant of outcome, and the effect of age or SE duration is often difficult to distinguish from the underlying cause. The effect of the treatment on long‐term outcome after SE is still unknown.
Mesial temporal lobe epilepsy with hippocampal sclerosis is infrequently associated with neuronal autoantibodies
Authors: Nóbrega‐Jr Adaucto W. , Gregory Christian P. , Schlindwein‐Zanini Rachel , Neves Fabricio de Souza , Wolf Peter , Walz Roger , Steindel Mario , Lin Katia
Published: August 2018

Mesial temporal lobe epilepsy with hippocampal sclerosis (MTLE‐HS) is characterized by its well‐defined clinical profile. Limbic encephalitis is increasingly recognized as a possible etiology of adult‐onset MTLE‐HS, and neuronal autoantibodies have been detected in patients even without previous signs of encephalitis. The aim of this study is to analyze the frequency of specific autoantibodies in patients with MTLE‐HS. A case‐control study was carried out with 100 patients with MTLE‐HS and 50 healthy controls. Sera samples from subjects were tested by indirect immunofluorescence assay for detection of anti‐N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptor (NMDA‐R), anti‐contactin‐associated protein‐like 2 (CASPR2), anti‐leucine‐rich glioma inactivated 1 (LGI1), anti‐gamma aminobutyric acid B receptor (GABA‐B‐R), anti‐alpha‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid 1 and 2 receptors (AMPA‐1‐R and AMPA‐2‐R), and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay for detection of anti‐glutamic acid decarboxylase 65 (GAD65). Mean age of patients and controls was 41.2 vs 42 years, and 55% vs 56% were female. Mean duration of epilepsy was 27.2 years. No neuronal autoantibodies were found in either group, except for anti‐GAD65 in 3 patients and 2 controls. This study adds to the mounting evidence that, in Brazilian patients, MTLE‐HS without signs and symptoms of autoimmune encephalitis may be infrequently associated with these autoantibodies. Differences regarding accuracy of used methodologies for autoantibody detection and genetic and environmental characteristics are discussed. Further works with different methodologies tested simultaneously in different populations may help clarify the incongruent study results about autoantibodies in MTLE‐HS.
Looking into the One‐way Mirror: A Pilot Study on the Impact of Reflecting Teams on Family Members
Authors: Armstrong Keith , Underhill Justine , Epstein Ken , Metzler Thomas J. , Sendowski Tahl D. , O'Connor Ashley , Norona Jerika C. , Ihle Eva C.
Published: August 2018

Reflecting Teams (RTs) are an internationally recognized clinical consultation methodology, first developed by Tom Andersen in 1985. Over the last three decades, family therapists around the world have used RTs to enhance treatment. However, this innovation to family therapy practice is not well‐standardized nor evaluated. The pilot study described in this article is an attempt to expand on the previous studies on RTs, and quantitatively examines RTs conducted with family therapy participants at a university medical center psychiatric institute. Preliminary analyses indicate that after participating in a single RT, family members may feel more hopeful, believe they can better support each other in times of stress, have more confidence in working together, and resolve conflicts. Additionally, the analyses suggest that family members may feel better understood and have more ideas about how to have a conversation with their family members, even though, after the RT, they may not view their family differently. These preliminary results suggest that further studies should explore the influence of RTs on family functioning.