bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
30 Days Wild: who benefits most?
Authors: Richardson Miles , McEwan Kirsten , Garip Gulcan
Published: August 2018

Purpose

There is a need to provide interventions to improve well-being that are accessible and cost-effective. Interventions to increase engagement with nature are coming to the fore. The Wildlife Trusts 30 Days Wild campaign shows promise as a large-scale intervention for improving public engagement with nature for well-being. The paper aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 273 people fully participated in a repeated measures evaluation comparing baseline measures of nature connection, health, happiness and conservation behaviours with measures post-30 days and 3 months.

Findings

There were sustained and significant increases for scores in nature connection, health, happiness and conservation behaviours. Those with lower scores at baseline in nature connection, conservation behaviours and happiness showed the most benefit. Older participants and those with higher baseline scores in conservation behaviours were the most likely to sustain their engagement with the campaign.

Research limitations/implications

Although the design and defined outcomes meet criteria for public health interventions, the self-reported measures, self-selecting sample and attrition are limitations.

Originality/value

The significant and sustained effects of the campaign on health, happiness and nature connection and conservation make this a promising intervention for improving human’s and nature’s well-being. The large community sample and naturalistic setting for the intervention make these data relevant to future interventions and policy.
The precautionary principle and unintended consequences
Authors: Miller Holmes E. , Engemann Kurt J.
Published: August 2018

Purpose

All technologies have intended and unintended consequences, both favorable and unfavorable. Because the risks from implementing a technology may outweigh its rewards, the precautionary principle, illustrated by the maxim “better safe than sorry”, often is applied. Yet, the precautionary principle itself may have unintended consequences. This paper aims to discuss the precautionary principle and unintended consequences and present a model for analyzing the resulting implications.

Design/methodology/approach

A deficiency in applying the precautionary principle often is forgoing a quantitative analysis. In this paper, the authors apply decision analysis and decision analytic methodologies. Specifically, they present a decision model which can be used when analyzing the consequences of using the precautionary principle. The methodology incorporates decision-makers’ attitude in the determination of the preferred decision policy. The authors illustrate the methodology by determining a decision policy regarding the application of the precautionary principle in a situation with potential unintended consequences.

Findings

The findings indicate that a generic decision model structure for assessing the use of the precautionary principle, as illustrated in a decision tree, can be used when implementing a new technology. The results of the analysis indicate that a decision-maker’s attitude plays an important role in determining a preferred decision policy for this dynamic decision situation.

Originality/value

This research breaks new ground by proposing a decision analytic methodology where quantitative analysis can be applied to address problems where technologies are implemented with unintended consequences and where the precautionary principle is applied.
From practice to research at Flinders University Library: sustaining a research culture
Authors: Walkley Hall Liz
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the mechanisms used by Flinders University Library to sustain a culture of research. Flinders University Library has been supporting its librarians to undertake research projects using a formal support group mechanism, known as the Research Working Group (RWG), sanctioned and resourced by library executive since 2010. This established a culture of practitioner-based research in the library, with the librarians developing a greater understanding of both the theory and practice of qualitative and quantitative methods by undertaking their own research projects. However, sustaining a research this culture brings new challenges which this paper now explores.

Design/methodology/approach

This case study describes the methods used at Flinders University Library in sustaining a culture of practitioner-research. This arose from a review of the formal support structure, as well as a previous study that surveyed staff responses to the RWG.

Findings

As academic libraries face ongoing challenges and engage more broadly with research support, librarians need experiential knowledge of research. In the case of Flinders University Library, the author has found that, in seeking to sustain a research culture, the author has needed to adapt the support mechanisms, including a greater emphasis on peer support, a different model of resourcing and more inclusivity for all staff to engage with research work.

Research limitations/implications

This paper is limited by its scope as a single-institution case study; however, there are opportunities for other academic libraries to learn from this experience.

Originality/value

Establishing a culture of practice-based research is not an easy undertaking, requiring dedication from all parties whether management, practitioner-researchers or mentors. While there are many examples in the literature of case studies examining the establishment of research culture, few if any take the next steps to explore how to maintain it. This paper seeks to fill that gap.
A new EDAS-based in-sample-out-of-sample classifier for risk-class prediction
Authors: Ouenniche Jamal , Uvalle Perez Oscar Javier , Ettouhami Aziz
Published: August 2018

Purpose

Nowadays, the field of data analytics is witnessing an unprecedented interest from a variety of stakeholders. The purpose of this paper is to contribute to the subfield of predictive analytics by proposing a new non-parametric classifier.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed new non-parametric classifier performs both in-sample and out-of-sample predictions, where in-sample predictions are devised with a new Evaluation Based on Distance from Average Solution (EDAS)-based classifier, and out-of-sample predictions are devised with a CBR-based classifier trained on the class predictions provided by the proposed EDAS-based classifier.

Findings

The performance of the proposed new non-parametric classification framework is tested on a data set of UK firms in predicting bankruptcy. Numerical results demonstrate an outstanding predictive performance, which is robust to the implementation decisions’ choices.

Practical implications

The exceptional predictive performance of the proposed new non-parametric classifier makes it a real contender in actual applications in areas such as finance and investment, internet security, fraud and medical diagnosis, where the accuracy of the risk-class predictions has serious consequences for the relevant stakeholders.

Originality/value

Over and above the design elements of the new integrated in-sample-out-of-sample classification framework and its non-parametric nature, it delivers an outstanding predictive performance for a bankruptcy prediction application.
Frugal supply chains: a managerial and societal perspective
Authors: Fulconis François , Pache Gilles , Reynaud Emmanuelle
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The paper aims to introduce the issue of supply chain management in the context of increasingly rare and costly resources and to define the notion of frugal supply chain, in particular, in reference to the development of circular economy. The challenges of frugal supply chain are detailed for a set of private and public stakeholders.

Design/methodology/approach

As a programmatic viewpoint, this paper aims at developing debates regarding the future of supply chains, building upon current technical and managerial innovations.

Findings

Frugal supply chains constitute a new business perspective. It transforms the way value creation process is considered, in reference to the models of circular economy, and the systems in which companies evolve. The circular economy represents many opportunities for new forms of growth in the context of rare resources, and it raises several challenges for a variety of stakeholders, more or less, involved in the management of closed loop supply chains.

Practical implications

Frugal strategies in a supply chain context may provide both a source of competitive advantage for companies and an enhancement of their commitment to society.

Social implications

The practices described in the paper aim at stimulating a new view of logistics management, based on the principles of sustainable development. Frugal supply chains offer the possibility of reflecting on a more moderate, sensible and effective use of several commons by taking part in the conservation of rare resources for future generations.

Originality/value

This viewpoint introduces the concept of frugal supply chains, rarely approached in the literature, and it offers the opportunity to open debates on managerial and societal challenges linked to logistics strategies and, more broadly, to inter-organizational relations.
Intraspecific body size variability in soil organisms at a European scale: Implications for functional biogeography
Authors: Bonfanti Jonathan , Hedde Mickaël , Joimel Sophie , Krogh Paul Henning , Violle Cyrille , Nahmani Johanne , Cortet Jérôme
Published: August 2018

Investigating the functional facet of biodiversity provides ecologists with a deeper understanding of community assembly and ecosystem processes, from local to biogeographical scales. A central assumption in functional ecology is that interspecific trait variability is higher than intraspecific variability. The “stable species hierarchy” hypothesis states that for similar species found in different environmental conditions, their species trait ranking is conserved. In this study, we applied this trait hierarchy concept prevalent in plant ecology to the growing field of soil functional ecology, for which newly developed trait databases are being increasingly used. However, to date there have been few attempts to test for patterns of intraspecific trait variability (ITV) in these databases.

We thus aimed to characterize how such patterns might influence (a) a species hierarchy based on trait values and (b) the conclusions of a trait‐based analysis at a community level. To examine this, we used Collembola body size data (extracted from the BETSI database) as model trait. The source consisted of four regional trait datasets (Poland, Scandinavia, Spain and UK) and one dataset for which species traits are defined at a continental (European) scale.

We found that, firstly, species were consistently ranked in all the trait datasets, although slight differences were observed between continental and northern European (i.e. Scandinavia and UK) trait datasets. In the two northern datasets, body size was higher (ca. 10%), indicating an intraspecific body size gradient from temperate to colder northern regions that we assumed could be explained by latitudinal patterns.

Secondly, using selected published species abundance matrices (from experimental studies), we calculated the community‐weighted mean body size using various trait datasets. The findings showed that the slight discrepancies observed between trait datasets can lead to different conclusions.

This work confirms that properly defining the extent of ITV in databases is of primary importance to ensure robust conclusions. This is particularly important for databases hosting large‐scale data that might be influenced by biogeographical patterns as latitudinal gradients. We recommend using a local regional trait dataset when available or, if not, a continental trait dataset. As trait databases are now commonly used tools for performing trait‐based analyses, it is crucial to carefully select the data used to make inferences.

A plain language summary is available for this article.
Inverse problem for Goupillaud‐layered earth model and dynamic deconvolution
Authors: Bardan Virgil , Robinson Enders A.
Published: August 2018

This paper presents, in a tutorial form, some analytical inversion techniques for the Goupillaud‐layered earth model. Finding the reflection coefficients from the reflection seismogram is the inverse problem for the model. For this reason we present a thorough description of the inverse problem for the Goupillaud model, two solutions to solve the inverse scattering problem using linear discrete equations and the solution obtained using the classic dynamic deconvolution method. The inversion is achieved using Robinson's polynomials Pk(z), Qk(z), Ak(z) and their reverse polynomials, as well as some properties of the model (the Lorentz transformation and the Einstein subtraction formula). The method of dynamic deconvolution, which makes the inversion of the model very simple computationally, is based on the physical structure of the reflection seismogram. We present the classic dynamic deconvolution algorithm for the non‐free‐surface Goupillaud model to show that the dynamic deconvolution method can provide efficient discrete procedures for the inversion. For this reason, though the inverse dynamic deconvolution procedures are old algorithms, they could be useful today for solving inverse scattering problems arising in exploration geophysics and various fields.
Ecosystem function in predator–prey food webs—confronting dynamic models with empirical data
Authors: Curtsdotter Alva , Banks H. Thomas , Banks John E. , Jonsson Mattias , Jonsson Tomas , Laubmeier Amanda N. , Traugott Michael , Bommarco Riccardo
Published: August 2018

Most ecosystem functions and related services involve species interactions across trophic levels, for example, pollination and biological pest control. Despite this, our understanding of ecosystem function in multitrophic communities is poor, and research has been limited to either manipulation in small communities or statistical descriptions in larger ones.

Recent advances in food web ecology may allow us to overcome the trade‐off between mechanistic insight and ecological realism. Molecular tools now simplify the detection of feeding interactions, and trait‐based approaches allow the application of dynamic food web models to real ecosystems. We performed the first test of an allometric food web model's ability to replicate temporally nonaggregated abundance data from the field and to provide mechanistic insight into the function of predation.

We aimed to reproduce and explore the drivers of the population dynamics of the aphid herbivore Rhopalosiphum padi observed in ten Swedish barley fields. We used a dynamic food web model, taking observed interactions and abundances of predators and alternative prey as input data, allowing us to examine the role of predation in aphid population control. The inverse problem methods were used for simultaneous model fit optimization and model parameterization.

The model captured >70% of the variation in aphid abundance in five of ten fields, supporting the model‐embodied hypothesis that body size can be an important determinant of predation in the arthropod community. We further demonstrate how in‐depth model analysis can disentangle the likely drivers of function, such as the community's abundance and trait composition. Analysing the variability in model performance revealed knowledge gaps, such as the source of episodic aphid mortality, and general method development needs that, if addressed, would further increase model success and enable stronger inference about ecosystem function.

The results demonstrate that confronting dynamic food web models with abundance data from the field is a viable approach to evaluate ecological theory and to aid our understanding of function in real ecosystems. However, to realize the full potential of food web models, in ecosystem function research and beyond, trait‐based parameterization must be refined and extended to include more traits than body size.
Optimal planning to mitigate the impacts of roads on multiple species
Authors: Polak Tal , Nicholson Emily , Grilo Clara , Bennett Joseph R. , Possingham Hugh P.
Published: August 2018

Common worldwide and encroaching on even the most remote locations, roads negatively affects wildlife through habitat loss, fragmentation and direct mortality. Reducing these effects requires mitigation, including wildlife crossing structures and fencing. However, mitigation measures are expensive and vary in their success level, especially when constructed to meet the needs of several species. Moreover, mitigation planning rarely considers the needs of multiple species. As funds are limited, deciding where and how to act for the greatest return on investment is crucial.

Combining decision theory with a metapopulation model, we determined the most cost‐effective actions mitigating the effects of roads on multiple species. The model is illustrated with two sets of species with varying of life‐history traits, from a diversity of taxonomic groups. We tested the cost‐effectiveness of spatially explicit combinations of three management options for each road section: (a) no mitigation, (b) fences without wildlife crossings, and (c) fences combined with wildlife crossings.

We explored the trade‐offs between each population's probability of persistence and total mitigation cost, first on a per‐species basis and then considering all species. We then tested the cost‐effectiveness of different planning strategies: (a) single species, (b) two types of focal species based on different life‐history traits, and (c) comprehensive multispecies planning.

Planning for the needs of all species at the same time (multispecies strategy) maximizes the number of persisting species and provides the most robust and cost‐effective planning strategy, while single‐species strategies were found to be inefficient. However, basing decisions on the focal species with the largest home range can provide reasonably cost‐effective results, but should be considered only when there is not enough time or money to collect the necessary information to perform a multispecies analysis.

Synthesis and applications. Our model can be adapted to most road mitigation problems. It illustrates that the needs of multiple species should be considered to plan a cost‐effective road mitigation system. However, when resources are limited to plan for all species, those with larger home ranges should be used as reasonable proxies for other species.
Coordination is key: Joint attention and vocalisation in infant siblings of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Heymann Perrine , Northrup Jessie B. , West Kelsey L. , Parladé Meaghan V. , Leezenbaum Nina B. , Iverson Jana M.
Published: August 2018

Background

Research indicates that social communicative behaviours develop atypically during the second year in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This study evaluated whether these behaviours also differed in the extent to which they were coordinated across modalities.

Aims

To measure joint attention behaviours (e.g., gaze shifts, gestures), vocalisations and their coordination among a cohort of infants with an older sibling with ASD (heightened risk—HR).

Methods & Procedures

This prospective longitudinal study examined 50 HR infants at 14, 18 and 24 months. The Early Social Communication Scales (ESCS)—a structured toy‐play task that assesses infant joint attention behaviour—was administered to infants at each age point in the home. Infants’ joint attention behaviours, vocalisations and instances where they overlapped were coded from videos. At 36 months, nine infants received an ASD diagnosis (HR‐ASD), 15 had a significant language delay (HR‐LD) and 26 were classified no diagnosis (HR‐ND).

Outcomes & Results

Findings revealed that HR‐ASD infants produced fewer advanced joint attention behaviours, and their vocalisations were less frequent and less advanced than HR‐LD and HR‐ND infants. Notably, HR‐ASD infants also coordinated these behaviours together less frequently than their HR peers.

Conclusions & Implications

Differences in the coordination of early communicative behaviours may have negative cascading effects on social and language development for infants who develop ASD. Current intervention practices may be complemented by efforts to increase the coordinated quality of communicative behaviours.
The Spatial Pattern of Residential Mobility in Guangzhou, China
Authors: Li Si‐Ming , Mao Sanqin
Published: August 2018

In urban China, residential mobility behaviors have changed fundamentally in recent decades. While research has been undertaken on the trends and causes of residential relocation for different population groups, less attention has been paid to micro‐level processes of residential change, yet the latter underscore urban dynamics. This study addresses this through a survey conducted in Guangzhou in late 2012, which analyzes the spatial flows of residential shifts within and between three distance zones—inner core, inner suburbs and outer suburbs—to reveal complex mobility trends. In particular, hukou or household registration status, socio‐economic status, the nature and rank of employment, and tenure were found to have varied effects on the probability of inward and outward shifts. More specifically, while outward shifts in recent years mainly involved local hukou holders, families with higher education levels, a higher socio‐economic status or those working for government departments and public institutions were found to be more likely to settle in high‐rise commodity housing in the inner core. The majority of non‐hukou migrants, by contrast, moved within the same street or between adjacent streets within the same suburban area, while age, socio‐economic status and homeownership were found to increase an individual's chance of an inward shift.
Sleep questionnaires for the screening of obstructive sleep apnea in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus compared with non‐diabetic patients
Authors: Pataka Athanasia , Kalamaras George , Daskalopoulou Efi , Argyropoulou Paraskevi
Published: August 2018

Background

Several tools have been used to screen for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Evaluation of the predictive performance of different questionnaires is essential in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) because the prevalence of OSA in this population is high. The aim of this study was to evaluate different sleep questionnaires to identify T2DM patients with OSA, and to compare the predictive values of these questionnaires with a matched sample of non‐diabetic patients.

Methods

The study was a retrospective study of two patients groups (n = 350 with T2DM,n =350 without T2DM) visiting a sleep clinic and matched by age, gender, body mass index, and the apnea–hypopnea index (AHI). Symptoms of OSA and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), STOP‐Bang, Berlin questionnaire, and Athens insomnia scale (AIS) scores were compared, and sleep studies were performed.

Results

Diabetic patients with OSA complained more frequently of nocturia (P =0.025), morning headaches (P =0.04), restless sleep (P =0.002), and leg movements (P =0.01) than non‐diabetic patients with OSA. Most predictive values of the sleep questionnaires did not differ significantly between the two groups; however, the AIS was higher only in T2DM women (P =0.01). In both groups, the Berlin and STOP‐Bang questionnaires had the highest sensitivity. The ESS had the highest specificity in T2DM patients and the STOP and S‐B questionnaires had the highest specificity in non‐diabetics.

Conclusions

The predictive performance of the questionnaires was similar in both groups, especially in the case of moderate and severe OSA.
Environmental and Social Matters in Mandatory Corporate Reporting: An Academic Note
Authors: Schneider Thomas , Michelon Giovanna , Paananen Mari
Published: August 2018

This note provides an overview of mandatory corporate reporting for environmental and social matters in Canada, the United States and the EU. When researchers and educators consider reporting on these matters, they often look to voluntary corporate reporting. However, we argue that a lot of related information exists in companies’ mandatory reports, either in the disclosures dictated by securities regulators, or via other required channels. Our objective is threefold. First, to describe what currently exists regarding mandatory reporting on environmental and social matters (to inform). Second, to discuss several of the current ongoing debates regarding such reporting (to encourage discourse). Third, to encourage research into the mandatory reporting of environmental and social matters.
How to succeed in frontier markets while avoiding corruption
Authors: GOCHER TIM
Published: August 2018

Developing and emerging markets often hold out the prospect of big rewards – and big risks. Tim Gocher shows how to avoid the traps
Is cerebrovascular autoregulation associated with outcomes after major noncardiac surgery? A prospective observational pilot study
Authors: Chuan Alwin , Short Timothy G. , Peng Alexander Z. Y. , Wen Shelly Y. B. , Sun Alice X. , Ting Timothy H. , Wan Anthony S. , Pope Linda , Jaeger Matthias , Aneman Anders
Published: August 2018

Background

Studies have identified multiple risk factors for development of cognitive decline after surgery. Impaired cerebrovascular autoregulation may be a contributor to postoperative cognitive decline.

Methods

One hundred and forty patients admitted for major elective noncardiac surgery were recruited. Near‐infrared spectroscopy was used to calculate the tissue oxygenation index of dynamic autoregulation (TOx). The primary endpoint was Day 3 cognitive recovery as assessed using the Postoperative Quality of Recovery Scale. The secondary endpoint was a combined major adverse event of death, acute myocardial infarction, cardiac arrest, stroke, pulmonary embolism, sepsis, and acute kidney injury at Day 30.

Results

Higher optimal TOx values, signifying impaired autoregulation, were associated with worse outcomes. Patients who cognitively recovered at Day 3 (n = 47) had lower optimal TOx values (TOxopt) than patients who did not recover (n = 22): 0.06 (0.24) vs 0.18 (0.16) (mean [SD]), P = 0.02. Patients who did not suffer a major adverse event (n = 102) had lower TOxopt than patients who did (n = 17): 0.09 (0.21) vs 0.20 (0.27), P = 0.04. When dichotomized as having impaired or intact autoregulation based on TOxopt levels, a value of TOxopt ≥0.1 correctly identified 72.7% of patients who did not cognitively recover, OR 3.3 (1.1‐9.9) (Odds ratio, [95% CI]), P = 0.03. TOxopt ≥0.1 correctly identified 82.4% of patients who suffered a major adverse event, OR 4.7 (1.3‐17.2), P = 0.02.

Conclusions

In older and higher risk patients having major noncardiac surgery, impaired cerebrovascular autoregulation was associated with failure of cognitive recovery in the early postoperative period and with 1‐month mortality and morbidity.
Effects of terlipressin infusion on blood loss and transfusion needs during liver resection: A randomised trial
Authors: Abbas Mostafa S. , Mohamed Khaled S. , Ibraheim Osama A. , Taha Ahmed M. , Ibraheem Tameem M. , Fadel Bashir A. , Elawamy Abdelraheem , Abbas Ahmed M.
Published: August 2018

Background

Blood loss and perioperative blood transfusion requirements affect the long‐term survival after liver resection for malignant tumours. Terlipressin is a synthetic vasopressin analogue with relative specificity for the splanchnic circulation where it causes vasoconstriction with subsequent reduction of blood loss during abdominal surgeries. We tried to examine the impact of terlipressin on blood loss and blood transfusion needs during liver resection.

Methods

In this randomised, double‐blind placebo‐controlled trial 84 patients scheduled for major liver resections were randomly assigned to receive either terlipressin at the onset of surgery as an initial bolus dose of (1 mg over 30 minutes) followed by a continuous infusion of 2 μg/kg/h throughout the procedure (Terlipressin group) or the same volume and rate of 0.9% saline (Placebo group).The primary outcome was the amount of intra‐operative blood loss.

Results

The mean (SD) of the amount of intra‐operative blood loss was 1351 (887) in the terlipressin group versus 1892 (889) mL in the placebo group (P = 0.006). Thirteen (30%) patients received blood transfusion in the terlipressin group compared with t27 (64.2%) in the placebo group (P = 0.002) with a statistically significant difference in the median (range) number of the transfused units of packed RBCs [0 (0‐5) units and 1 (0‐6) units in the two groups respectively; P = 0.001].

Conclusion

Terlipressin infusion during major liver resection was associated with less bleeding compared to placebo. More studies are required to confirm our results especially in patients with normal portal pressure.
Functional analysis of vocal folds by transcutaneous laryngeal ultrasonography in patients undergoing thyroidectomy
Authors: Dubey Mamta , Mittal Amit K , Jaipuria Jiten , Arora Manisha , Dewan Ajay K. , Pahade Akhilesh
Published: August 2018

Background

Transcutaneous laryngeal ultrasound (TCLUS) can assess Vocal folds (VF) by subjectively identifying mobility or objectively by calculating vocal fold displacement velocity (VFDV). Optimal diagnostic approach (subjective assessment, VFDV estimation or a combination of both) is unresolved; hence, we conducted this prospective study in patients undergoing thyroidectomy.

Method

Two anaesthetists performed TCLUS pre‐ and post‐operatively for functional assessment of 200 VFs on 100 patients. Their findings were compared with pre‐operative flexible laryngoscope (FL) performed by surgeons and with post‐operative C‐Mac video laryngoscope (C‐Mac VL) by another independent anaesthetist. Correlation between FL and TCLUS findings and inter‐rater agreement between TCLUS findings of both anaesthetists was analysed. Decision curve analysis (DCA) was performed to compare clinical benefit of hoarseness, subjective VF movement, VFDV, and combined assessment for detecting disabled VFs.

Results

We found good correlation between VF mobility on TCLUS and FL (Spearman's r = 0.93, P < 0.0001) as well as C‐Mac VL (Spearman's r = 0.83, P < 0.0001) with excellent inter‐rater agreement between both anaesthetists. DCA showed combined assessment to have marginally higher clinical benefit than other diagnostic approaches at intermediate threshold probabilities while its benefit was similar to subjective evaluation at higher threshold probabilities.

Conclusion

Provided achievement of optimal acoustic window, TCLUS can reliably assess disabled VFs with FL reserved for their confirmation or doubtful cases. Subjective assessment of VF mobility should suffice in most cases with additional VFDV estimation reserved pre‐operatively for situations with higher risk of VFs disability, and post‐operatively when subjective VF assessment findings are discordant from pre‐operative status.
Atypical Accommodations for Employees with Psychiatric Disabilities
Authors: Hickox Stacy A. , Hall Angela
Published: August 2018

People with psychiatric disabilities often need atypical accommodations to participate in today's workforce. Some of these accommodations, including structural and social changes in the workplace, can address biases against people with psychiatric disabilities, while others ameliorate deficits that may affect performance or interaction with others. Many courts have denied requests for such accommodations based on employers' assumptions about performance or the direct threats purportedly posed by people with psychiatric disabilities. By challenging these assumptions, which can be influenced by stigma and stereotypes, and by enforcing an employer's duty to interact regarding potential accommodations, employees with psychiatric disabilities could benefit from structural and social accommodations. Courts should consider social science research in determining which nontraditional accommodations may be reasonable and whether the employer can establish that they impose any undue hardship. Such consideration will expand opportunities for people with psychiatric disabilities in the workplace without unduly interfering with employers' interests.
High‐fat diet protects the blood–brain barrier in an Alzheimer's disease mouse model
Authors: Elhaik Goldman Shirin , Goez David , Last David , Naor Sharone , Liraz Zaltsman Sigal , Sharvit‐Ginon Inbal , Atrakchi‐Baranes Dana , Shemesh Chen , Twitto‐Greenberg Rachel , Tsach Shoval , Lotan Roni , Leikin‐Frenkel Alicia , Shish Aviv , Mardor Yael , Schnaider Beeri Michal , Cooper Itzik
Published: August 2018

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is associated with increased risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD). There is evidence for impaired blood–brain barrier (BBB) in both diseases, but its role in the interplay between them is not clear. Here, we investigated the effects of high‐fat diet (HFD), a model for T2D, on the Tg2576 mouse model of AD, in regard to BBB function. We showed that HFD mice had higher weight, more insulin resistance, and higher serum HDL cholesterol levels, primarily in Tg2576 mice, which also had higher brain lipids content. In terms of behavior, Tg2576 HFD mice were less active and more anxious, but had better learning in the Morris Water Maze compared to Tg2576 on regular diet. HFD had no effect on the level of amyloid beta 1–42 in the cortex of Tg2576 mice, but increased the transcription level of insulin receptor in the hippocampus. Tg2576 mice on regular diet demonstrated more BBB disruption at 8 and 12 months accompanied by larger lateral ventricles volume in contrast to Tg2576 HFD mice, whose BBB leakage and ventricular volume were similar to wild‐type (WT) mice. Our results suggest that in AD, HFD may promote better cognitive function through improvements of BBB function and of brain atrophy but not of amyloid beta levels. Lipid metabolism in the CNS and peripheral tissues and brain insulin signaling may underlie this protection.
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Patients with Heavy Alcohol Consumption and Alcoholic Hepatitis
Authors: Samala Niharika , Lourens Spencer G. , Shah Vijay H. , Kamath Patrick S. , Sanyal Arun J. , Crabb David W. , Tang Qing , Radaeva Svetlana , Liangpunsakul Suthat , Chalasani Naga
Published: August 2018

Background

Lifetime prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the general population is reported to be 6.8%. Individuals with alcohol dependence and substance abuse have high prevalence of PTSD. However, the prevalence of PTSD in heavy drinkers with alcoholic hepatitis (AH) is not known.The study's aim was to determine the prevalence of PTSD in heavy drinkers with and without AH.

Methods

We screened for PTSD using the Primary Care‐PTSD questionnaire among heavy drinkers with (n = 115) and without (n = 64) AH participating in a multicenter observational study in which participants were followed up to 12 months following their enrollment.

Results

The prevalence of PTSD in heavy drinkers with AH was 34% and was not different from heavy drinking controls without liver disease (34%). In the entire group screened for PTSD, the presence of PTSD was associated with higher alcohol consumption as reported by average drinks per last 30 days and average grams of alcohol consumed per day (p = 0.047 for both tests), but not associated with relapse of heavy drinking or mortality. Similarly, patients with AH and PTSD did not have higher relapse rate or higher mortality compared to patients with AH but no PTSD.

Conclusions

Compared to previously reported prevalence in general population, heavy drinking individuals with or without AH have significantly higher prevalence of PTSD. However, PTSD was not associated with higher relapse rate or higher mortality in this population.
Complexity in mood disorder diagnosis: fMRI connectivity networks predicted medication‐class of response in complex patients
Authors: Osuch E. , Gao S. , Wammes M. , Théberge J. , Williamson P. , Neufeld R. J. , Du Y. , Sui J. , Calhoun V.
Published: August 2018

Objective

This study determined the clinical utility of an fMRI classification algorithm predicting medication‐class of response in patients with challenging mood diagnoses.

Methods

Ninety‐nine 16–27‐year‐olds underwent resting state fMRI scans in three groups—BD, MDD and healthy controls. A predictive algorithm was trained and cross‐validated on the known‐diagnosis patients using maximally spatially independent components (ICs), constructing a similarity matrix among subjects, partitioning the matrix in kernel space and optimizing support vector machine classifiers and IC combinations. This classifier was also applied to each of 12 new individual patients with unclear mood disorder diagnoses.

Results

Classification within the known‐diagnosis group was approximately 92.4% accurate. The five maximally contributory ICs were identified. Applied to the complicated patients, the algorithm diagnosis was consistent with optimal medication‐class of response to sustained recovery in 11 of 12 cases (i.e., almost 92% accuracy).

Conclusion

This classification algorithm performed well for the know‐diagnosis but also predicted medication‐class of response in difficult‐to‐diagnose patients. Further research can enhance this approach and extend these findings to be more clinically accessible.
A new genus and species of an unusual Australian winter bee fly (Diptera: Bombyliidae) with discussion on its phylogenetic position
Authors: Li Xuankun , Yeates David K
Published: August 2018

A new genus of bee fly (Bombyliinae: Bombyliini) is described to place a unique species Paramonovius nightking gen. et sp. nov. The new species is only collected in winter and is only known from a restricted area in Western Australia. Our morphological phylogeny indicates the new genus is sister to Sisyromyia White, 1916 and is similar to the latter in some external characters such as the one‐segmented antennal flagellum with apical stylus, subapex with 3–5 long hairs, open cell r5 and cell br nearly as long as cell bm. However, Paramonovius gen. nov. has dichoptic male eyes, sparse scales on the median abdominal stripe, enlarged claw and pulvillus, as well as a series of autapomorphies in the genitalia. We present a modified key to the Australian genera of Bombyliini to accommodate this new genus. The unusual flight time of this genus may have contributed to its rarity in collections.
Psoriasis and infection. A clinical practice narrative
Authors: Rademaker Marius , Agnew Karen , Anagnostou Nicholas , Andrews Megan , Armour Katherine , Baker Christopher , Foley Peter , Gebauer Kurt , Gupta Monisha , Marshman Gillian , Rubel Diana , Sullivan John , Wong Li‐Chuen
Published: August 2018

The Australasian Psoriasis Collaboration has developed a clinical practice narrative with respect to the relationship between psoriasis, its treatment and infection. The cutaneous microbiome of patients with psoriasis is different to those without psoriasis, although the significance of this is unclear. Whilst a wide range of microorganisms has been associated with psoriasis (including β‐haemolytic streptococci, Staphylococcus aureus, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Candida albicans, Chlamydia psittaci, human immunodeficiency virus and hepatitis C virus), there is limited evidence that antimicrobial therapy is of direct benefit in preventing flares of psoriasis. Psoriasis is independently associated with an increased risk of serious infection, but the absolute risk is low. The risk of serious infections is further increased with immune‐modulatory treatments. The decision whether to, and when to, stop or resume immune‐modulatory treatment after a serious infection has occurred depends on risk assessment for that patient, taking into account the infection being treated, the risk of recurrent infection, any interventions that can modify the risk and the need for psoriasis control. Live vaccines (e.g. MMR, varicella, zoster and yellow fever) are generally contraindicated in patients with psoriasis on immune‐modulatory agents, but this depends on the degree of immune suppression and individual risk factors. Wound healing in psoriasis is normal. Treatment with infliximab, adalimumab, etanercept, methotrexate and ciclosporin can safely be continued through low‐risk surgical procedures. For moderate‐ and high‐risk surgeries, a case‐by‐case approach should be taken based on the patient's individual risk factors and comorbidities.
The spotted ghost: Density and distribution of serval Leptailurus serval in Namibia
Authors: Edwards Sarah , Portas Ruben , Hanssen Lise , Beytell Piet , Melzheimer Joerg , Stratford Ken
Published: August 2018

Despite its IUCN Red List status as “least concern,” relatively few studies have been conducted on serval Leptailurus serval. Within Namibia, serval are detected infrequently, even during prolonged camera trapping surveys, which has been suggested as indicative of low density. Such populations are vulnerable to habitat loss and degradation; therefore, quantifying serval population density and distribution within Namibia is an important first step in establishing conservation needs. We present the first density estimates of serval for Namibia, from Khaudum National Park and the Mudumu North Complex (MNC). Using Bayesian spatial capture–recapture models, density was estimated at 1.28 serval/100 km2 (± 0.23, 0.82–1.56) for Khaudum and 0.63 serval/100 km2 (± 0.51, 0.38–0.90) for the MNC; the lowest serval densities published to date. Photographic records from the two surveys, along with an additional 10 records from MNC captured outside of the survey period and two new records from north‐central Namibia were used to update the Namibian distribution map. This resulted in the highest probability of occurrence along the north‐eastern borders. Such results imply Namibia hosts a low‐density, geographically limited population, potentially vulnerable to habitat fragmentation and other environmental impacts, and therefore requires careful management to ensure its persistence.
Antenatal vitamin D exposure and childhood eczema, food allergy, asthma and allergic rhinitis at 2 and 5 years of age in the atopic disease‐specific Cork BASELINE Birth Cohort Study
Authors: Hennessy Áine , Hourihane Jonathan O'B , Malvisi Lucio , Irvine Alan D. , Kenny Louise C. , Murray Deirdre M. , Kiely Mairead E.
Published: August 2018

Background

Prospective studies of antenatal and infant vitamin D exposure and atopic disease from extensively characterised, disease‐specific, maternal‐infant cohorts with gold standard analysis of vitamin D status and clinically validated atopic outcomes are lacking. This study aimed to investigate associations between intrauterine vitamin D status and atopic outcomes in an extensively characterised, disease‐specific, maternal‐infant cohort.

Methods

Circulating 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) was measured in maternal sera at 15 weeks of gestation (n = 1537) and umbilical cord blood (n = 1050) using a CDC‐accredited LC‐MS/MS platform, and the association with clinically validated atopic disease outcomes (eczema, food allergy, asthma, allergic rhinitis) at 2 and 5 years was explored using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

Persistent eczema in the first 2 years of life was present in 5% of infants. Food allergy at 2 years was confirmed in 4%. The prevalence of aeroallergen sensitisation at 2 years was 8%. Asthma at 5 years was reported in 15% and allergic rhinitis in 5% of 5‐year‐olds. There were no significant differences in the distributions of maternal 25(OH)D at 15 weeks of gestation (mean [SD] 58.4 [26.2] and 58.5 [26.1] nmol/L) and cord 25(OH)D concentrations (mean [SD] 35.2 [17.8] and 35.4 [18.3] nmol/L) between children with and without atopic disease. Neither maternal (aOR [95% CI]: 1.02 [0.97, 1.08], P = 0.450) nor cord 25(OH)D (aOR [95% CI]: 1.00 [0.91, 1.09], P = 0.991) were significant predictors of atopic disease outcomes in fully adjusted models.

Conclusion

These data in a disease‐specific cohort with prospectively collected, validated atopic outcomes do not support an association between antenatal exposure to vitamin D and atopic disease outcomes in childhood.
Validation of the cognitive recovery assessments with the Postoperative Quality of Recovery Scale in patients with low‐baseline cognition
Authors: Bowyer A. J. , Heiberg J. , Sessler D. I. , Newman S. , Royse A. G. , Royse C. F.
Published: August 2018

Patients with pre‐surgery cognitive impairment cannot currently be assessed for cognitive recovery after surgery using the Postoperative Quality of Recovery Scale (PostopQRS), as they would mathematically be scored as recovered. We aimed to validate a novel method to score cognitive recovery in patients with low‐baseline cognition, using the number of low‐score tests rather than their numerical values. Face validity was demonstrated in 86 participants in whom both the Postoperative Quality of Recovery Scale and an 11‐item neuropsychological battery were performed. The Postoperative Quality of Recovery Scale agreed with neuropsychological categorisation of low vs. normal cognition 74% of the time, with all but five incorrectly coded participants deviating by only one neurocognitive test. Cognitive recovery over time was comparable for groups with differing baseline cognitive function, irrespective of whether the Postoperative Quality of Recovery Scale or neuropsychological methods were used. Discriminant validation was demonstrated in a post‐hoc analysis of the steroids in cardiac surgery substudy by allocating groups to normal (n = 246) or low‐baseline cognition (n = 231) stratified by cognitive recovery on day 1. Recovery was similar for participants with low and normal baseline cognition. Postoperative length of stay was longer in patients with failed cognitive recovery whether they had normal mean (SD) (10.4 (10.0) vs. 8.0 (5.9) days, p = 0.02) or low‐baseline cognition (12.0 (11.1) vs. 8.2 (4.7) days, p < 0.01). Overall quality, as well as cognitive, emotive and physiological recovery was independent of baseline cognition. The modified scoring method for the Postoperative Quality of Recovery Scale cognitive domain demonstrates acceptable face and discriminant validity.