bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treating scabies infestations in children and adults
Authors: Whybrew Chin
Published: May 2017

Scabies is a skin condition caused by a burrowing mite infestation that usually presents as an itchy papular rash. This article describes how to recognise a scabies infestation and examines the efficacy and suitability of the various treatment options.
Covariate‐adjusted borrowing of historical control data in randomized clinical trials
Authors: Han Baoguang , Zhan Jia , John Zhong Z. , Liu Dawei , Lindborg Stacy
Published: May 2017

The borrowing of historical control data can be an efficient way to improve the treatment effect estimate of the current control group in a randomized clinical trial. When the historical and current control data are consistent, the borrowing of historical data can increase power and reduce Type I error rate. However, when these 2 sources of data are inconsistent, it may result in a combination of biased estimates, reduced power, and inflation of Type I error rate. In some situations, inconsistency between historical and current control data may be caused by a systematic variation in the measured baseline prognostic factors, which can be appropriately addressed through statistical modeling. In this paper, we propose a Bayesian hierarchical model that can incorporate patient‐level baseline covariates to enhance the appropriateness of the exchangeability assumption between current and historical control data. The performance of the proposed method is shown through simulation studies, and its application to a clinical trial design for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is described. The proposed method is developed for scenarios involving multiple imbalanced prognostic factors and thus has meaningful implications for clinical trials evaluating new treatments for heterogeneous diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
Benchmarking of density functionals for the kinetics and thermodynamics of the hydrolysis of glycosidic bonds catalyzed by glycosidases
Authors: Pereira Andreia T. , Ribeiro António J. M. , Fernandes Pedro A. , Ramos Maria J.
Published: May 2017

In recent years, there has been an increased interest in understanding the enzymatic mechanism of glycosidases resorting mostly to DFT and DFT/MM calculations. However, the performance of density functionals (DFs) is well known to be system and property dependent. Trends drawn from general studies, despite important to evaluate the quality of the DFs and to pave the way for the development of new DFs, may be misleading when applied to a single specific system/property. To overcome this issue, we carried out a benchmarking study of 40 DFs applied to the geometry optimization and to the electronic barrier height (EBarrier) and electronic energy of reaction (ER) of prototypical glycosidase‐catalyzed reactions. Additionally, we report calculations with SCC‐DFTB and four semiempirical MO methods applied to the same problem. We have used a universal molecular model for retaining glycosidases, comprising only a 22‐atoms system that mimics the active site and substrate. High accuracy reference geometries and energies were calculated at the CCSD(T)/CBS//MP2/aug‐cc‐pVTZ level of theory. Most DFs reproduce the reference geometries extremely well, with mean unsigned errors (MUE) smaller than 0.05 Å for bond lengths and 3° for bond angles. Among the DFs, wB97X‐D, CAM‐B3LYP, B3P86, and PBE1PBE have the best performance in geometry optimizations (MUE = 0.02 Å). Conversely, semiempirical MO and SCC‐DFTB methods yielded less accurate geometries (MUE between 0.09 and 0.17 Å). The inclusion of D3 correction has a small, but still relevant, influence in the geometry predicted by some DFs. Regarding EBarrier, 11 DFs (MPW1B95, CAM‐B3LYP, M06 ‐ 2X, PBE1PBE, wB97X ‐ D, B1B95, BMK, MN12 – SX, M05, M06, and M11) presented errors below 1 kcal.mol−1, in relation to the reference energy. Most of these functionals belong to the family of hybrid functionals (H‐GGA, HH‐GGA, and HM‐GGA), which shows a positive influence of HF exchange in the determination of EBarrier. The inclusion of D3 correction has not affected significantly the EBarrier and ER. The use of geometries at the accurate but expensive MP2/aug‐cc‐pVTZ level of theory has a small, albeit not insignificant, influence in the EBarrier when compared with energies calculated with geometries determined with the DFs (usually a few tenths of kcal.mol−1, with exceptions). In general, semiempirical MO methods and DFTB are associated with larger errors in the determination of EBarrier, with unsigned errors from 6.9 to 24.7 kcal.mol−1.
Surgery in metastatic prostate cancer: a pilot study
Authors: Sooriakumaran Prasanna
Published: May 2017

There is some evidence to suggest that radical treatment of the primary tumour in patients diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer can reduce symptomatic progression and increase survival. In this article, the author describes a pilot study to investigate whether a large study looking at survival benefit in early metastatic disease is feasible in the UK and calls for recruits.
Confocal macro X‐ray fluorescence spectrometer on commercial 3D printer
Authors: Szalóki I. , Gerényi A. , Radócz G.
Published: May 2017

Novel confocal X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometer was designed and constructed for 3D analysis of elementary composition in the surface layer of spatially extended objects having unlimited chemical composition and geometrical shape. The main elements of the XRF device were mounted on a moving frame of a commercial 3D printer. The XRF unit consists of a silicon drift detector and a low‐power transmission‐type X‐ray tube. Both the excitation and secondary X‐ray beams were formed and regulated by simple collimator systems in order to create a macro confocal measuring setup. The spatial accuracy of the mechanical stages of the 3D printer achieved was less than 5 μm at 100‐μm step‐size. The diameter of the focal spot of the confocal measuring arrangement was between 1.5 and 2.0 mm. The alignment of the excitation and secondary X‐ray beams and the selection of the measuring spot on the sample surface were ensured by two laser beams and a digital microscope for visualization of the irradiated spot. The elements of the optical system together with the XRF spectrometer were mounted on the horizontal arm of the 3D printer, which mechanical design is capable of synchronized moving the full spectroscopic device within vertical directions. Analytical capability and the 3D spatial resolution of the confocal spectrometer were determined. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hearing loss in children with Fabry disease
Authors: Suntjens E. , Dreschler W. A. , Hess‐Erga J. , Skrunes R. , Wijburg F. A. , Linthorst G. E. , Tøndel C. , Biegstraaten M.
Published: May 2017

Background

Hearing loss (HL) is a well‐known feature of Fabry disease (FD). Its presence and characteristics have mainly been studied in adult patients, while only limited data are available on the presence and degree of HL in children with FD. This prompted us to study hearing sensitivity in pediatric FD patients.

Methods

All available audiograms of the Dutch and Norwegian children with FD were retrospectively collected. First, hearing sensitivity was determined by studying hearing thresholds at low, high, and ultra‐high frequencies in children with FD and comparing them to zero dB HL, i.e., healthy children. In addition, the presence and type of slight/mild HL (defined as hearing thresholds at low frequencies of 25–40 dB HL) and moderate to severe HL (hearing thresholds >40 dB HL) at first visit were analyzed. If available, follow‐up data were used to estimate the natural course of hearing sensitivity and HL in children with FD.

Results

One‐hundred‐thirteen audiograms of 47 children with FD (20 boys, median age at first audiogram 12.0 (range 5.1–18.0) years) were analyzed. At baseline, slight/mild or moderate to severe HL was present in three children (6.4%, 2 boys). Follow‐up measurements showed that three additional children developed HL before the age of 18. Of these six children, five had sensorineural HL, most likely caused by FD. Compared to healthy children (zero dB HL), FD children showed increased hearing thresholds at all frequencies (p < 0.01), which was most prominent at ultra‐high frequencies (>8 kHz). Hearing sensitivity at these ultra‐high frequencies deteriorated in a period of 5 years of follow‐up.

Conclusion

A minority of children with FD show slight/mild or moderate to severe HL, but their hearing thresholds are poorer than the reference values for normal‐hearing children. Clinical trials in FD children should demonstrate whether HL can be prevented or reversed by early treatment and should specifically study ultra‐high frequencies.
On the Future of the Emu: Is More Fiscal Integration Indispensable?
Authors: Matthes Jürgen , Iara Anna
Published: May 2017

It is often maintained that the euro debt crisis showed that the Economic and Monetary Union (EMU) was not sustainable without more fiscal integration. However, important causes of the crisis were extraordinary and are highly unlikely to occur again. While the legacy problems of the crisis have been grave, they can be deemed temporary. Therefore, these problems should be combated pragmatically, but with temporary instruments only. A systematic analysis shows that the root causes have been tackled with a wide variety of reforms, both to the EMU itself and by way of structural reforms of the member states. In particular, evidence is presented that the adjustment capacities of the EMU countries are better than commonly recognised. Additional reforms are suggested, especially in the financial sector. With these reforms in place, future crises would have less serious effects. A reformed EMU should be able to withstand such crises without further fiscal integration.
Isolation, characterization and genetic diversity of NBS-LRR class disease-resistant gene analogs in multiple virus resistant line of chilli (Capsicum annuum L.)
Authors: Naresh P. , Krishna Reddy M. , Reddy Anand C. , Lavanya B. , Lakshmana Reddy D. C. , Madhavi Reddy K.
Published: May 2017

Viruses are serious threat to chilli crop production worldwide. Resistance screening against several viruses resulted in identifying a multiple virus resistant genotype ‘IHR 2451’. Degenerate primers based on the conserved regions between P-Loop and GLPL of Resistance genes (R-genes) were used to amplify nucleotide binding sites (NBS)—encoding regions from genotype ‘IHR 2451’. Alignment of deduced amino acid sequences and phylogenetic analyses of isolated sequences distinguished into two groups representing toll interleukin-1 receptor (TIR) and non-TIR, and different families within the group confirming the hypotheses that dicots have both the types of NBS-LRR genes. The alignment of deduced amino acid sequences revealed conservation of subdomains P-loop, RNBS-A, kinase2, RNBS-B, and GLPL. The distinctive five RGAs showing specific conserved motifs were subjected to BLASTp and indicated high homology at deduced amino acid level with R genes identified such as Pvr9 gene for potyvirus resistance, putative late blight resistance protein homolog R1B-23 and other disease resistance genes suggesting high correlation with resistance to different pathogens. These pepper RGAs could be regarded as candidate sequences of resistant genes for marker development.
Cost-effective screening and isolation of xylano-cellulolytic positive microbes from termite gut and termitarium
Authors: Varghese Libin Mathew , Agrawal Sharad , Sharma Divya , Mandhan Rishi Pal , Mahajan Ritu
Published: May 2017

In this study, screening and isolation of xylano-cellulolytic enzymes producing positive microbes from termitarium and termite gut microbiome were done using cost-effective agricultural wastes. The enrichment of xylano-cellulolytic microbes was done in three steps using wheat bran and waste paper. The qualitative screening of xylanase and cellulase producing micro-organisms was done on nutrient agar plates containing wheat bran and waste paper, respectively. Xylanase and cellulase positive colonies were analysed by observing the zone of substrate (wheat bran and waste paper) hydrolysis around the colonies. A total of 30 bacterial isolates were obtained from termite gut and termitarium, respectively. Xylan and cellulose degrading potential of the positive isolates was also quantitatively estimated using agro-wastes-based medium. All the bacterial isolates displayed cellulase and xylanase activities in the range of 0.45–6.80 and 51–380 IU/ml, respectively. This is the first report mentioning the isolation of xylano-cellulolytic microbes from termite gut and termitarium using very simple cost-effective methodology.
Assessment of amyloid β in pathologically confirmed frontotemporal dementia syndromes
Authors: Tan Rachel H. , Kril Jillian J. , Yang Yue , Tom Nicole , Hodges John R. , Villemagne Victor L. , Rowe Christopher C. , Leyton Cristian E. , Kwok John B.J. , Ittner Lars M. , Halliday Glenda M.
Published: May 2017

Introduction

The diagnostic utility of in vivo amyloid β (Aβ) imaging to aid in the clinical distinction between frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and Alzheimer's disease remains unclear without data on the prevalence and severity of Aβ in pathologically confirmed FTD syndromes.

Methods

Aβ was assessed in 98 autopsy‐confirmed FTD and 36 control cases, and the pathological accuracy of 11C‐Pittsburgh compound B (PiB)–positron emission tomography imaging was assessed in a subset of FTD cases (n = 15).

Results

Aβ was identified in a similar proportion of FTD syndromes and age‐matched controls and increases with age. Alzheimer's disease pathology was identified in all cases with high PiB retention and in one case with low PiB retention. We further demonstrate a strong regional correlation between volume fraction of histological Aβ with PiB standard uptake value ratio scaled to the white matter.

Discussion

The present study provides a pathologic reference to assist in the interpretation of in vivo assessments in FTD syndromes.
Dementia registries around the globe and their applications: A systematic review
Authors: Krysinska Karolina , Sachdev Perminder S. , Breitner John , Kivipelto Miia , Kukull Walter , Brodaty Henry
Published: May 2017

Patient registries are valuable tools helping to address significant challenges in research, care, and policy. Registries, well embedded in many fields of medicine and public health, are relatively new in dementia. This systematic review presents the current situation in regards to dementia registries worldwide. We identified 31 dementia registries operating on an international, national, or local level between 1986 and 2016. More than half of the registries aimed to conduct or facilitate research, including preclinical research registries and registries recruiting research volunteers. Other dementia registries collected epidemiological or quality of care data. We present evidence of practical and economic outcomes of registries for research, clinical practice and policy, and recommendations for future development. Global harmonization of recruitment methods and minimum data would facilitate international comparisons. Registries provide a positive return on investment; their establishment and maintenance require ongoing support by government, policy makers, research funding bodies, clinicians, and individuals with dementia and their caregivers.
Tragic Pleasure from Homer to Plato
Authors: Liebert Rana Saadi
Published: May 2017

This book offers a resolution of the paradox posed by the pleasure of tragedy by returning to its earliest articulations in archaic Greek poetry and its subsequent emergence as a philosophical problem in Plato's Republic. Socrates' claim that tragic poetry satisfies our 'hunger for tears' hearkens back to archaic conceptions of both poetry and mourning that suggest a common source of pleasure in the human appetite for heightened forms of emotional distress. By unearthing a psychosomatic model of aesthetic engagement implicit in archaic poetry and philosophically elaborated by Plato, this volume not only sheds new light on the Republic's notorious indictment of poetry, but also identifies rationally and ethically disinterested sources of value in our pursuit of aesthetic states. In doing so the book resolves an intractable paradox in aesthetic theory and human psychology: the appeal of painful emotions.
Development and Application of an Antibiotic Spectrum Index for Benchmarking Antibiotic Selection Patterns Across Hospitals
Authors: Gerber Jeffrey S. , Hersh Adam L. , Kronman Matthew P. , Newland Jason G. , Ross Rachael K. , Metjian Talene A.
Published: May 2017

Standard metrics for antimicrobial use consider volume but not spectrum of antimicrobial prescribing. We developed an antibiotic spectrum index (ASI) to classify commonly used antibiotics based on activity against important pathogens. The application of this index to hospital antibiotic use reveals how this tool enhances current antimicrobial stewardship metrics.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2017;38:993–997
Linear stability of a viscoelastic liquid flow on an oscillating plane
Authors: Samanta Arghya
Published: May 2017

Linear stability of a viscoelastic liquid on an oscillating plane is studied for disturbances of arbitrary wavenumbers. The main aim is to extend the earlier study of Dandapat & Gupta (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 72, 1975, pp. 425–432) to the finite wavenumber regime, which has not been attempted so far in the literature. The Orr–Sommerfeld boundary value problem is formulated for an unsteady base flow, and it is resolved numerically based on the Chebyshev spectral collocation method along with the Floquet theory. The analytical solution predicts that U-shaped unstable regions appear in the separated bandwidths of the imposed frequency, and the dominant mode of the long-wave instability intensifies in the presence of the viscoelastic parameter. The numerical solution shows that oblique neutral curves come out from the branch points of the U-shaped neutral curves at finite wavenumber and continue with the imposed frequency until the curves cross the next U-shaped neutral curve. As a consequence, in the finite wavenumber regime, no stable bandwidth of the imposed frequency is predicted by the long-wavelength analysis. Further, in some frequency ranges, the finite wavenumber instability is more dangerous than the long-wave instability.
Medical and psychosocial determinants of risk of postpartum depression: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Maliszewska Karolina , Bidzan Mariola , Świątkowska-Freund Małgorzata , Preis Krzysztof
Published: May 2017

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the degree of risk of maternal postpartum depression during the second month of puerperium.

Method

In total, 387 postnatal women filled out a questionnaire concerning their health and social status, as well as the following tests: the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), the Neo Five-Factor Inventory (NEO-FFI) Personality Inventory and the Berlin Social Support Scales. After 4–8 weeks, patients responded to another questionnaire with the EPDS and the PHQ-9.

Results

In total, 48 patients (12.40%) were found to be at risk of postpartum depression between the fourth and eighth weeks after delivery. Premenstrual syndrome [adjusted odds ratio (ORa)=2.93, confidence interval (CI) 1.30–6.63] and EPDS>12 points during the first week after the delivery (ORa=3.74, CI 1.59–9.04) increased the risk of postnatal depression. A similar role is played by a high result in neuroticism scale of the NEO-FFI (ORa=1.50, CI 1.17–1.92) and a positive family history of any psychiatric disorder (ORa=1.03, CI 1.01–1.06).

Conclusion

A history of premenstrual syndrome and a higher risk of affective disorder soon after a childbirth are associated with greater chances of depressive symptoms in the second month postpartum. This is also the case if a patient is neurotic and has a relative with a history of any psychiatric disorder. Such women should have their mental status carefully evaluated.
Redescription and genetic characterization of Cystidicoloides vaucheri, including first description of male and current status on the phylogeny of Cystidicolidae (Nematoda: Habronematoidea)
Authors: Pereira F.B. , Pereira A.N. , Luque J.L.
Published: May 2017

Cystidicoloides vaucheri collected in the stomach of the redtail catfish Phractocephalus hemioliopterus from River Acre, State of Acre, Brazil is redescribed, including the first description of males and the first genetic characterization based upon 18S and 28S genes of the rRNA. Newly collected females were biometrically smaller than those reported in the original description, but similar morphology shared by the two samples revealed that they belong to the same species. Scanning electron micrographs showed the accurate structure of the cephalic region, described here in detail. Furthermore, the morphology of males completed the specific diagnosis, strengthening the validity of the species. The three other congeners differ from C. vaucheri mainly as follows: in C. dlouhyi the area rugosa is absent, the cephalic structures in C. fischeri are completely distinct, and in both species the spicules have membranous outgrowths, absent in C. vaucheri. Despite the dubious generic assignment of C. izecksohni, it differs from C. vaucheri in several biometrical and morphological features. Because of data availability, only sequences of the 18S were used for phylogenetic reconstructions. Results showed that the genus Ascarophis and the families Cystidicolidae and Physalopteridae are not monophyletic. Cystidicoloides vaucheri formed an independent branch clustering with representatives of Cystidicolidae, confirming its validity. The inclusion of Salmonema and Spinitectus within Cystidicolidae should be reviewed, since they formed an assemblage with species from Rhabdochonidae. In fact, current classification of some taxa belonging to Habronematoidea, Physalopteroidea and Thelazioidea need to be re-evaluated, mainly based on molecular data from different genes.
Whence the Giant Jesus and his Talking Cross? The Resurrection inGospel of Peter10.39–42 as Prophetic Fulfilment of LXX Psalm 18
Authors: Galbraith Deane
Published: May 2017

The curious resurrection account in theGospel of Peter(10.39–42) is not simply the author's creative innovation, but is based on a Christocentric interpretation of LXX Ps 18.1–7. TheGospel of Peter’s unusual description of Jesus’ exit from the tomb, whereupon he expands gigantically so that his head enters heaven (GPet10.39–40), derives from an early Christian interpretation of LXX Ps 18.5c–7. The following conversation between God and the glorified cosmic cross (GPet10.41–2) derives from a Christocentric interpretation of LXX Ps 18.2. In addition, the cross's verbal affirmation that it had preached to the dead (GPet10.42) follows from a literalising yet Christocentric reading of LXX Ps 18.2b.
The evolution of New Zealand's Antarctic research programme since 1957
Authors: Morten Peter
Published: May 2017

New Zealand's Antarctic research began during the 1957/1958 International Geophysical Year. This analysis explains how and why it has evolved. There have been two phases: 1957 until 1991, when the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research and the universities were the key research organisations, and after 1991, when the publicly funded research sector became more diverse. International collaborations have been important throughout. Funding decision processes have progressed from a bottom-up curiosity-driven approach to a more complex system of regular contests. Since 1991, the focus has been on coherent strategies and the outcomes sought. Funding criteria are well-defined and contests are widely accepted as fair and transparent. Reviews and evaluations have been positive. Collaborative organisational interactions dominated decision-making during the early period. Bureaucratic politics is most evident in post-1991 organisational changes. The quality of the research strategies has improved in terms of defining outcomes sought and appropriate measures of progress towards them. However, New Zealand's Antarctic research funding is currently dispersed. It needs better coordination. Collaborative research should be emphasised in areas where New Zealand has established a strong reputation taking account of both national and global priorities if New Zealand's international research standing is to be maintained and enhanced.
Sign, language, and gesture in the brain: Some comments
Authors: Campbell Ruth , Woll Bencie
Published: May 2017

In contrast with two widely held and contradictory views – that sign languages of deaf people are “just gestures,” or that sign languages are “just like spoken languages” – the view from sign linguistics and developmental research in cognition presented by Goldin-Meadow & Brentari (G-M&B) indicates a more complex picture. We propose that neuroscience research suggests that a similar approach needs to be taken and offer some examples from research on the brain bases of sign language perception.
Is it language (yet)? The allure of the gesture-language binary
Authors: Coppola Marie , Senghas Ann
Published: May 2017

Goldin-Meadow & Brentari (G-M&B) challenge the traditional separation between gestural and categorical language by modality, but they retain a binary distinction. However, multiple dimensions, particularly discreteness and combinatoriality, better carve up the range of linguistic and nonlinguistic human communication. Investigating transformation over time along these dimensions will reveal how the nature of language reflects human minds, rather than the world to which language refers.
How to distinguish gesture from sign: New technology is not the answer
Authors: Emmorey Karen
Published: May 2017

Linguistic and psycholinguistic tests will be more useful than motion capture technology in calibrating the borders between sign and gesture. The analogy between motion capture (mocap) technology and the spectrograph is flawed because only vocal articulators are hidden. Although information about gradience and variability will be obtained, the technology provides less information about linguistic constraints and categories. Better models are needed to account for differences between co-speech and co-sign gesture (e.g., different degrees of optionality, existence of beat gestures).
Languages as semiotically heterogenous systems
Authors: Kendon Adam
Published: May 2017

The target article is consistent with seeing languages as semiotically heterogenous, using categorial, depictive, and analogic semiotic signs. “Gesture,” used in the target article, is shown to be vague and not useful. Kendon's view, criticised in the target, is restated. His proposal for comparative semiotic analyses of how visible bodily action is used in utterance production is reexplained.
Understanding gesture in sign and speech: Perspectives from theory of mind, bilingualism, and acting
Authors: Lakshmanan Usha , Pilot Zachary
Published: May 2017

In their article, Goldin-Meadow & Brentari (G-M&B) assert that researchers must differentiate between sign/speech and gesture. We propose that this distinction may be useful if situated within a two-systems approach to theory of mind (ToM) and discuss how drawing upon perspectives from bilingualism and acting can help us understand the role of gesture in spoken/sign language.
Current and future methodologies for quantitative analysis of information transfer in sign language and gesture data
Authors: Malaia Evie
Published: May 2017

State-of-the-art methods of analysis of video data now include motion capture and optical flow from video recordings. These techniques allow for biological differentiation between visual communication and noncommunicative motion, enabling further inquiry into neural bases of communication. The requirements for additional noninvasive methods of data collection and automatic analysis of natural gesture and sign language are discussed.
Are gesture and speech mismatches produced by an integrated gesture-speech system? A more dynamically embodied perspective is needed for understanding gesture-related learning
Authors: Pouw Wim T. J. L. , van Gog Tamara , Zwaan Rolf A. , Paas Fred
Published: May 2017

We observe a tension in the target article as it stresses an integrated gesture-speech system that can nevertheless consist of contradictory representational states, which are reflected by mismatches in gesture and speech or sign. Beyond problems of coherence, this prevents furthering our understanding of gesture-related learning. As a possible antidote, we invite a more dynamically embodied perspective to the stage.
Searching for unity: Real-world versus item-based visual search in age-related eye disease
Authors: Crabb David P. , Taylor Deanna J.
Published: May 2017

When studying visual search, item-based approaches using synthetic targets and distractors limit the real-world applicability of results. Everyday visual search can be impaired in patients with common eye diseases like glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration. We highlight some results in the literature that suggest assessment of real-word search tasks in these patients could be clinically useful.
How functional are functional viewing fields?
Authors: Kristjánsson Árni , Chetverikov Andrey , Brinkhuis Manje
Published: May 2017

Hulleman & Olivers' (H&O's) proposal is a refreshing addition to the visual search literature. Although we like their proposal that fixations, not individual items should be considered a fundamental unit in visual search, we point out some unresolved problems that their account will have to solve. Additionally, we consider predictions that can be made from the account, in particular in relation to priming of visual search, finding that the account generates interesting testable predictions.
Task implementation and top-down control in continuous search
Authors: Prinz Wolfgang
Published: May 2017

Evidence from continuous search suggests that targets are detected by default, whereas distractors are processed in considerable depth. These observations shed light on task implementation and top-down control. Task implementation builds on forming dynamic distractor models, based on continuous integration of distractor-related information. Top-down control builds on using these models for testing upcoming stimulus information.
Looking further! The importance of embedding visual search in action
Authors: van der Kamp John , Dicks Matt
Published: May 2017

A unified account of visual search in complex everyday environments requires additional deliberations on the functional grounding of Hulleman & Olivers' (H&O's) functional viewing field (FVF) model. Their model can accommodate exploitation of information that is distributed across the immediate environment. Yet the differences in search between genuinely interacting in the environment and merely watching it should challenge researchers to look further.
Where the item still rules supreme: Time-based selection, enumeration, pre-attentive processing and the target template?
Authors: Watson Derrick G.
Published: May 2017

I propose that there remains a central role for the item (or its equivalent) in a wider range of search and search-related tasks/functions than might be conveyed by the article. I consider the functional relationship between the framework and some aspects of previous theories, and suggest some challenges that the new framework might encounter.
On the brink: The demise of the item in visual search moves closer
Authors: Hulleman Johan , Olivers Christian N. L.
Published: May 2017

We proposed to abandon the item as conceptual unit in visual search and adopt a fixation-based framework instead. We treat various themes raised by our commentators, including the nature of the Functional Visual Field and existing similar ideas, alongside the importance of items, covert attention, and top-down/contextual influences. We reflect on the current state of, and future directions for, visual search.
The motivational dimension of language teaching
Authors: Lamb Martin
Published: May 2017

Motivation is recognized as a vital component in successful second language learning, and has been the subject of intensive research in recent decades. This review focuses on a growing branch of this research effort, that which examines the motivational effects of language teaching. This is pertinent because, despite enhanced mobility and expanding access to foreign languages online, most learners’ early encounters with the second language (L2) still take place in classrooms, and these encounters may shape attitudes and determine students’ willingness to invest further in the L2. Four main types of research are reviewed: first, that which deliberately seeks to identify and evaluate strategies to motivate L2 learners; second, that which has tested the validity of psychological theories of motivation by applying their precepts in L2 classrooms; third, that which assesses the motivational effects of a pedagogical innovation or intervention; fourth, research on what has been too often the unintended outcome of language education, namely learner demotivation. The review highlights the complexity of the relationship between teaching and learner motivation but an attempt is made to articulate some emerging verities and to point towards the most promising avenues for future research.
A NEW HEALTH TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT SYSTEM FOR JAPAN? SIMULATING THE POTENTIAL IMPACT ON THE PRICE OF SIMEPREVIR
Authors: Mahlich Jörg , Kamae Isao , Rossi Bruno
Published: May 2017

Objectives:Japanese authorities have announced a plan to introduce a health technology assessment (HTA) system in 2016. This study assessed the potential impact of such a policy on the price of the antivirologic drug simeprevir.

Methods:Taking the antivirologic drug simeprevir as an example, we compared the current Japanese price with hypothetical prices that might result if a U.K. (cost-utility) or German (efficiency frontier) style HTA assessment was in place.

Results:The simeprevir unit price under the current Japanese pricing scheme is 13,122 Japanese yen (equivalent to 109.35 U.S. dollars as of April 2015). Depending on the selection of comparators and the pricing method, and assuming that HTA will be used as a basis for price setting, the estimated prices of simeprevir vary up to four times higher than under the current Japanese pricing scheme.

Conclusions:Although the analysis is based on only one drug, it cannot be taken for granted that a new HTA system would reduce public healthcare expenditure in Japan.
DEFINING THE RELEVANT OUTCOME MEASURES IN MEDICAL DEVICE ASSESSMENTS: AN ANALYSIS OF THE DEFINITION PROCESS IN HEALTH TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT
Authors: Jacobs Esther , Antoine Sunya-Lee , Prediger Barbara , Neugebauer Edmund , Eikermann Michaela
Published: May 2017

Background: Defining relevant outcome measures for clinical trials on medical devices (MD) is complex, as there is a large variety of potentially relevant outcomes. The chosen outcomes vary widely across clinical trials making the assessment in evidence syntheses very challenging. The objective is to provide an overview on the current common procedures of health technology assessment (HTA) institutions in defining outcome measures in MD trials.

Methods: In 2012–14, the Web pages of 126 institutions involved in HTA were searched for methodological manuals written in English or German that describe methods for the predefinition process of outcome measures. Additionally, the institutions were contacted by email. Relevant information was extracted. All process steps were performed independently by two reviewers.

Results: Twenty-four manuals and ten responses from the email request were included in the analysis. Overall, 88.5 percent of the institutions describe the type of outcomes that should be considered in detail and 84.6 percent agree that the main focus should be on patient relevant outcomes. Specifically related to MD, information could be obtained in 26 percent of the included manuals and email responses. Eleven percent of the institutions report a particular consideration of MD related outcomes.

Conclusions: This detailed analysis on common procedures of HTA institutions in the context of defining relevant outcome measures for the assessment of MD shows that standardized procedures for MD from the perspective of HTA institutions are not widespread. This leads to the question if a homogenous approach should be implemented in the field of HTA on MD.
Back to the Future: Promoting Peace through International Law
Authors: BAAZ MIKAEL
Published: May 2017

The world as a whole has not been at peace since 1914, and it is definitely not at peace today. David J. Dunn argues that this state of affairs may be due, in no small part, to aspects of the conventional wisdom that informs practical foreign policy and diplomacy. For example, the ancient notionsi vis pacem, para bellum[if you desire peace, prepare for war] (Vegetius) or the nineteenth century idea that argues ‘[w]e have no eternal allies, and we have no perpetual enemies. Our interests are eternal and perpetual, and those interests it is our duty to follow’ (Lord Palmerston). These ‘insights’ neatly summarize the intellectual core of political realism; in particular, the ‘balance-of-power’ doctrine.
Adolescents from upper middle class communities: Substance misuse and addiction across early adulthood
Authors: Luthar Suniya S. , Small Phillip J. , Ciciolla Lucia
Published: May 2017

In this prospective study of upper middle class youth, we document frequency of alcohol and drug use, as well as diagnoses of abuse and dependence, during early adulthood. Two cohorts were assessed as high school seniors and then annually across 4 college years (New England Study of Suburban Youth younger cohort [NESSY-Y]), and across ages 23–27 (NESSY older cohort [NESSY-O]; ns = 152 and 183 at final assessments, respectively). Across gender and annual assessments, results showed substantial elevations, relative to norms, for frequency of drunkenness and using marijuana, stimulants, and cocaine. Of more concern were psychiatric diagnoses of alcohol/drug dependence: among women and men, respectively, lifetime rates ranged between 19%–24% and 23%–40% among NESSY-Os at age 26; and 11%–16% and 19%–27% among NESSY-Ys at 22. Relative to norms, these rates among NESSY-O women and men were three and two times as high, respectively, and among NESSY-Y, close to one among women but twice as high among men. Findings also showed the protective power of parents’ containment (anticipated stringency of repercussions for substance use) at age 18; this was inversely associated with frequency of drunkenness and marijuana and stimulant use in adulthood. Results emphasize the need to take seriously the elevated rates of substance documented among adolescents in affluent American school communities.
BUILDING AN EARLY MAYA COMMUNITY: ARCHAEOLOGICAL INVESTIGATIONS AT CAOBAL, GUATEMALA
Authors: Munson Jessica , Pinzón Flory
Published: May 2017

Archaeological investigations at the minor center of Caobal provide clues about local traditions of civic-ceremonial architecture as well as the relationship between these buildings and broader social and political transformations during the Preclassic period. The remains of pre-Hispanic Maya architecture represent a series of actions, decisions, and repeated practices, which contribute to long sequences of construction observed in the archaeological record. In particular, these data shed light on two major building campaigns that took place within Caobal's central precinct from about 850b.c.–a.d.250. By examining the materiality and temporality of minor temple architecture beyond primary centers of power, we examine how these buildings were constructed and, in turn, how these structures may have transformed the daily practices, identity politics, and religious values of pre-Hispanic Maya communities. Repeated construction of buildings in the temple precinct of Caobal provides a long and detailed archaeological record that allows us to reconstruct the history of material and social practices that shaped this local community beyond the Ceibal center.
Study of dosimetric characteristics of a commercial optically stimulated luminescence system
Authors: Jain Gourav K. , Chougule Arun , Kaliyamoorthy Ananth , Akula Suresh K.
Published: May 2017

Background

Optically stimulated luminescence dosimeters (OSLDs) have a number of advantages in radiation dosimetry making them an excellent dosimeter for in vivo dosimetry. The study aimed to study the dosimetric characteristics of a commercial optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) system by Landauer Inc., before using it for routine clinical practice for in vivo dosimetry in radiotherapy. Further, this study also aimed to investigate the cause of variability found in the literature in a few dosimetric parameters of carbon-doped aluminium oxide (Al2O3:C).

Materials and methods

The commercial OSLD system uses Al2O3:C nanoDotTMas an active radiation detector and InLightTMmicroStar®as a readout assembly. Inter-detector response, energy, dose rate, field size and depth dependency of the detector response were evaluated for all available clinical range of photon beam energies in radiotherapy.

Results

Inter-detector variation in OSLD response was found within 3·44%. After single light exposure for the OSL readout, detector reading decreased by 0·29% per reading. The dose linearity was investigated between dose range 50–400 cGy. The dose response curve was found to be linear until 250 cGy, after this dose, the dose response curve was found to be supra-linear in nature. OSLD response was found to be energy independent for Co60to 10 MV photon energies.

Conclusions

The cause of variability found in the literature for some dosimetric characteristics of Al2O3:C is due to the difference in general geometry, construction of dosimeter, geometric condition of irradiation, phantom material and geometry, beam energy. In addition, the irradiation history of detector used and difference in readout methodologies had varying degree of uncertainties in measurements. However, the large surface area of the detector placed in the phantom with sufficient build-up and backscatter irradiated perpendicularly to incident radiation in Co60beam is a good method of choice for the calibration of a dosimeter. Understanding the OSLD response with all dosimetric parameters may help us in estimation of accurate dose delivered to patient during radiotherapy treatment.
Conflict Avoidance in Old Age
Authors: Oberhauser Lia , Neubauer Andreas B. , Kessler Eva-Marie
Published: May 2017

Abstract. Conflict avoidance increases across the adult lifespan. This cross-sectional study looks at conflict avoidance as part of a mechanism to regulate belongingness needs ( Sheldon, 2011 ). We assumed that older adults perceive more threats to their belongingness when they contemplate their future, and that they preventively react with avoidance coping. We set up a model predicting conflict avoidance that included perceptions of future nonbelonging, termed anticipated loneliness, and other predictors including sociodemographics, indicators of subjective well-being and perceived social support (N = 331, aged 40–87). Anticipated loneliness predicted conflict avoidance above all other predictors and partially mediated the age-association of conflict avoidance. Results suggest that belongingness regulation accounts may deepen our understanding of conflict avoidance in the second half of life.
Elterliche Emotionsdysregulation als Risikofaktor für die kindliche Entwicklung
Authors: Ulrich Franziska , Petermann Franz
Published: May 2017

Zusammenfassung. Emotionsregulation ist eines der zentralen Themen der Entwicklungspsychopathologie. Der überwiegende Anteil an Forschungsarbeiten widmet sich der Frage zur Entwicklung von Emotionsregulation, welche als zentrale Entwicklungsaufgabe im Kindesalter erachtet wird. Die Herausbildung einer altersangemessenen Emotionsregulation besitzt eine entscheidende Bedeutung für die psychische Gesundheit und dem späteren Schulerfolg eines Kindes. Obwohl die elterliche Emotionsregulation als ein zentraler Aspekt des Erziehungsverhaltens verstanden wird, ist noch immer nicht hinreichend geklärt, wie Eltern ihre eigenen Gefühle im Erziehungskontext regulieren. Dieser Beitrag bietet einen Überblick zum aktuellen Forschungsstand zu den Auswirkungen einer elterlichen Emotions(dys)regulation auf familiäre Prozesse der kindlichen Emotionsregulation und den Entwicklungsergebnissen des Kindes. Empfehlungen für die klinische Praxis werden diskutiert.
Multimethodale Erfassung der kindlichen Emotionsregulation
Authors: Reindl Vanessa , Job Ann-Katrin , Heinrichs Nina , Lohaus Arnold , Konrad Kerstin
Published: May 2017

Zusammenfassung. Die emotionale Go-Nogo Aufgabe ist ein computergestütztes Verfahren, das die kognitive Kontrolle, Emotionsregulation und Emotionserkennung erfassen soll. Ziel der Studie war es zu überprüfen, inwieweit die Kennwerte der Aufgabe relevant sind für die habituellen Emotionsregulationsstrategien und Verhaltensauffälligkeiten von Kindern. Insgesamt wurden 58 Kinder im Alter von 6 bis 8 Jahren in die Studie eingeschlossen. Die im Elternbericht (überwiegend Mütter) erfassten maladaptiven Emotionsregulationsstrategien der Kinder hingen signifikant mit ihren Verhaltensauffälligkeiten (ebenfalls Elternbericht, überwiegend Mütter) zusammen. Hingegen zeigten sich keine Assoziationen zwischen den Go-Nogo Kennwerten und den Fragebogendaten zur Erhebung der Emotionsregulation und der Verhaltensauffälligkeiten. Möglicherweise erfassen die beiden Messmethoden, computergestützte Verfahren und Fragebögen (Eltern-/Mutterbericht), unterschiedliche Aspekte des Konstrukts der Emotionsregulation.
MARCH9‐mediated ubiquitination regulates MHC I export from the TGN
Authors: De Angelis Rigotti Francesca , De Gassart Aude , Pforr Carina , Cano Florencia , N'Guessan Prudence , Combes Alexis , Camossetto Voahirana , Lehner Paul J , Pierre Philippe , Gatti Evelina
Published: May 2017

Given the heterogeneous nature of antigens, major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC I) intracellular transport intersects with multiple degradation pathways for efficient peptide loading and presentation to cytotoxic T cells. MHC I loading with peptides in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a tightly regulated process, while post‐ER intracellular transport is considered to occur by default, leading to peptide‐bearing MHC I delivery to the plasma membrane. We show here that MHC I traffic is submitted to a previously uncharacterized sorting step at the trans Golgi network (TGN), dependent on the ubiquitination of its cytoplasmic tail lysine residues. MHC I ubiquitination is mediated by the E3 ligase membrane‐associated RING‐CH 9 (MARCH9) and allows MHC I access to Syntaxin 6‐positive endosomal compartments. We further show that MARCH9 can also target the human MHC I‐like lipid antigen‐presentation molecule CD1a. MARCH9 expression is modulated by microbial pattern exposure in dendritic cells (DCs), thus revealing the role of this ubiquitin E3 ligase in coordinating MHC I access to endosomes and DC activation for efficient antigen cross‐presentation.
Engineered clearing agents for the selective depletion of antigen-specific antibodies
Authors: Devanaboyina Siva Charan , Khare Priyanka , Challa Dilip K. , Ober Raimund J. , Ward E. Sally
Published: May 2017

Here we have designed a novel class of engineered antibody-based reagents (‘Seldegs’) that induce the selective degradation of antigen-specific antibodies. We demonstrate the rapid and specific clearance of antibodies recognizing the autoantigen, myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein and tumour target, HER2. Seldegs have considerable potential in multiple areas, including the treatment of antibody-mediated autoimmunity and diagnostic imaging.