bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laser-induced reduction and in-situ optical spectroscopy of individual plasmonic copper nanoparticles for catalytic reactions
Authors: Di Martino G. , Turek V. A. , Braeuninger-Weimer P. , Hofmann S. , Baumberg J. J.
Published: February 2017

Copper (Cu) can provide an alternative to gold (Au) for the development of efficient, low-cost and low-loss plasmonic nanoparticles (NPs), as well as selective nanocatalysts. Unlike Au, the surface oxidation of Cu NPs can be an issue restricting their applicability. Here, we selectively reduce the Cu NPs by low power laser illumination in vacuum and use dark-field scattering to reveal in real time the optical signatures of the reduction process and its influence on the Cu NP plasmonic resonance. We then study reactive processes at the single particle level, using individual Cu catalyst nanoparticles for the selective laser-induced chemical vapour deposition of germanium nanostructures.
Rapid detection of Escherichia coli O157:H7 using tunneling magnetoresistance biosensor
Authors: Wu Yuanzhao , Liu Yiwei , Zhan Qingfeng , Liu J. Ping , Li Run-Wei
Published: February 2017

A rapid method for the sensitive detection of bacteria using magnetic immunoassay, which are measured with a tunneling magnetoresistance (TMR) sensor, is described. For the measurement of Escherichia coli O157:H7 (E. coli O157:H7) bacteria, the target was labeled by magnetic beads through magnetic immunoassay. The magnetic beads produce a weak magnetic fringe field when external field is applied, thus induce the magnetoresistance change of TMR sensor. A detection limit of 100 CFU/mL E. coli O157:H7 bacteria in 5 hours was obtained. With its high sensitive and rapid detection scheme based on the TMR biosensor, the detection system is an excellent candidate suitable and promising for food safety and biomedical detection.
Funding therapies for rare diseases: an ethical dilemma with a potential solution
Authors: Taylor Colman , Jan Stephen , Thompson Kelly
Published: February 2017

Funding rare disease therapies presents a challenge in Australia where there is a legislative requirement to consider cost-effectiveness. Currently the Life Saving Drugs Programme (LSDP) provides subsidised access to high-cost therapies for rare, life-threatening conditions. However the LSDP is currently under review by the Minsiter for Health and future access to rare disease therapies in uncertain. Internationally there is no gold standard model to evaluate and fund rare disease therapies, and considerable variation exists. However, common features of international systems include the opportunity for early stakeholder engagement, flexibility with evidence requirements, cost-effectiveness criteria and transparency in relation to the decision making framework and outcomes. Australians value equality and equal opportunity in relation to health care. To meet these expectations there is a clear need to maintain a separate fit-for-purpose framework to evaluate and fund rare disease therapies drawing on overseas best practice. This will provide certainty for industry to continue to invest in such treatments, as well as ensuring funding recommendations are reflective of Australian values balanced against the need for financial sustainability.
Atomic structure of granulin determined from native nanocrystalline granulovirus using an X-ray free-electron laser
Authors: Gati Cornelius , Oberthuer Dominik , Yefanov Oleksandr , Bunker Richard D. , Stellato Francesco , Chiu Elaine , Yeh Shin-Mei , Aquila Andrew , Basu Shibom , Bean Richard , Beyerlein Kenneth R. , Botha Sabine , Boutet Sébastien , DePonte Daniel P. , Doak R. Bruce , Fromme Raimund , Galli Lorenzo , Grotjohann Ingo , James Daniel R. , Kupitz Christopher , Lomb Lukas , Messerschmidt Marc , Nass Karol , Rendek Kimberly , Shoeman Robert L. , Wang Dingjie , Weierstall Uwe , White Thomas A. , Williams Garth J. , Zatsepin Nadia A. , Fromme Petra , Spence John C. H. , Goldie Kenneth N. , Jehle Johannes A. , Metcalf Peter , Barty Anton , Chapman Henry N.
Published: February 2017

Significance

The room temperature structure of natively formed protein nanocrystals consisting of 9,000 unit cells has been solved to 2 Å resolution using an unattenuated X-ray free-electron laser (XFEL) beam, representing, by far, the smallest protein crystals used for protein structure determination by X-ray crystallography to date. Radiation damage limits structure determination from protein crystals using synchrotron techniques, whereas femtosecond X-ray pulses from free-electron lasers enable much higher tolerable doses, extracting more signal per molecule, allowing the study of submicrometer crystals. Radiation-sensitive features, such as disulfide bonds, are well resolved in the XFEL structure despite the extremely high dose (1.3 GGy) used. Analysis of signal levels obtained in this experiment indicates that structure determination from even smaller protein crystals could be possible.
Synchronous spikes are necessary but not sufficient for a synchrony code in populations of spiking neurons
Authors: Grewe Jan , Kruscha Alexandra , Lindner Benjamin , Benda Jan
Published: February 2017

Significance

Populations of sensory neurons convey information about the outside world to the brain. Postsynaptic neurons may read out their total activity or, alternatively, by focusing only on synchronous activity, they might extract specific features from the same sensory information. But does synchronous activity always encode special features of the stimulus? This question was experimentally addressed in in vivo recordings from two closely related populations of electrosensory neurons of a weakly electric fish. Despite having similar amounts of synchronous activity, only in one population of neurons did synchronous spikes carry specific information about the stimulus. A detailed spectral analysis reveals that too low levels of intrinsic noise paired with too little frequency locking of the neural oscillator destroys a synchrony code.
Specificity of genome evolution in experimental populations of
Escherichia coli
evolved at different temperatures
Authors: Deatherage Daniel E. , Kepner Jamie L. , Bennett Albert F. , Lenski Richard E. , Barrick Jeffrey E.
Published: February 2017

Significance

Organisms evolve and adapt via changes in their genomes that improve survival and reproduction in the context of their environment. Few experiments have examined how these genomic signatures of adaptation, which may favor mutations in certain genes or molecular pathways, vary across a set of similar environments that have both shared and distinctive characteristics. We sequenced complete genomes from 30
Escherichia coli
lineages that evolved for 2,000 generations in one of five environments that differed only in the temperatures they experienced. Particular “signature” genes acquired mutations in these bacteria in response to selection imposed by specific temperature treatments. Thus, it is sometimes possible to predict aspects of the environment recently experienced by microbial populations from changes in their genome sequences.
Liquid behavior of cross-linked actin bundles
Authors: Weirich Kimberly L. , Banerjee Shiladitya , Dasbiswas Kinjal , Witten Thomas A. , Vaikuntanathan Suriyanarayanan , Gardel Margaret L.
Published: February 2017

Significance

The interior of biological cells is composed of soft, macromolecular-based materials. The semiflexible biopolymer actin cross-links into networks and bundles with diverse architectures to form the actin cytoskeleton. Actin networks have been traditionally thought to be viscoelastic gels, whose rigidity controls cell morphogenesis. Here we demonstrate that cross-linked actin filaments also form liquid droplets. Because these liquids are composed of rod-like polymers, they form anisotropic liquid droplets with a spindle-like shape, whose morphology can be controlled by cross-link concentration. Actin-based liquid bundles also display shape instabilities characteristic of fluids. These shape dynamics reveal a mechanism to control subcellular compartmentalization and dynamics, with implications for mitotic spindle shape and molecular motor-independent contractility.
Stretchable living materials and devices with hydrogel–elastomer hybrids hosting programmed cells
Authors: Liu Xinyue , Tang Tzu-Chieh , Tham Eléonore , Yuk Hyunwoo , Lin Shaoting , Lu Timothy K. , Zhao Xuanhe
Published: February 2017

Significance

The integration of genetically programmed cells into materials and devices will enable the power of biology to be harnessed for a wide range of scientific research and technological applications. Here, we use stretchable, robust, and biocompatible hydrogel–elastomer hybrids to host genetically programed bacteria, thus creating a set of stretchable and wearable living materials and devices that possesses unprecedented functions and capabilities. A quantitative yet generic model is further developed to account for the coupled physical and biochemical processes in living materials and devices. This simple strategy for designing living materials and devices not only provides tools for research in synthetic biology but also, enables applications, such as living sensors, interactive genetic circuits, and living wearable devices.
Proper division plane orientation and mitotic progression together allow normal growth of maize
Authors: Martinez Pablo , Luo Anding , Sylvester Anne , Rasmussen Carolyn G.
Published: February 2017

Significance

Speculation about the role of division plane orientation in the growth of a plant has hinged on two conflicting ideas. The first idea is that the plant body is specified at the tissue level and cells divide merely to fill in the space, making the orientation of division unimportant to the overall growth. The second idea is that the orientation of the division plane is critical for tissue-level patterning and therefore also impacts growth. This study suggests that misorientation of the division plane together with cell-cycle delays cannot be compensated for. Therefore, division plane orientation is a critical but potentially indirect factor for growth.
A higher-order theory of emotional consciousness
Authors: LeDoux Joseph E. , Brown Richard
Published: February 2017

Significance

Although emotions, or feelings, are the most significant events in our lives, there has been relatively little contact between theories of emotion and emerging theories of consciousness in cognitive science. In this paper we challenge the conventional view, which argues that emotions are innately programmed in subcortical circuits, and propose instead that emotions are higher-order states instantiated in cortical circuits. What differs in emotional and nonemotional experiences, we argue, is not that one originates subcortically and the other cortically, but instead the kinds of inputs processed by the cortical network. We offer modifications of higher-order theory, a leading theory of consciousness, to allow higher-order theory to account for self-awareness, and then extend this model to account for conscious emotional experiences.
Mapping of voltage sensor positions in resting and inactivated mammalian sodium channels by LRET
Authors: Kubota Tomoya , Durek Thomas , Dang Bobo , Finol-Urdaneta Rocio K. , Craik David J. , Kent Stephen B. H. , French Robert J. , Bezanilla Francisco , Correa Ana M.
Published: February 2017

Significance

Physical activities of our body and extremities are achieved by the propagation of electrical signals called action potentials from our brain, through nerves, to skeletal muscles. Voltage-gated sodium channel (Navs) play essential roles in the generation and propagation of action potentials in such excitable cells. Although mammalian Nav function has been studied comprehensively, the precise structural basis for the gating mechanisms has not been fully clarified. In this study, we have used lanthanide-based resonance energy transfer to obtain dynamic structural information in mammalian Nav gating. Our data define a geometrical map of Navs with the bound toxins and reveal voltage-induced structural changes related to channel gating, which lead us further toward an understanding of the gating mechanism in mammalian Navs.
Influence of energy density on metallurgy and properties in metal additive manufacturing
Authors: Yusuf Shahir M. , Gao Nong
Published: February 2017

Fabricating metallic components for highly specialised industries such as automotive and aerospace has become the main focus of additive manufacturing (AM) due to its many advantages over traditional processes. This review initially outlines current AM techniques for processing metallic components, particularly on ‘powder bed fusion’ and ‘directed energy deposition’ categories. Various solidification and metallurgical aspects, microstructure and properties of fabricated parts are described in subsequent sections. In addition, the influence of energy density on metallurgy, microstructure and mechanical properties is addressed. The need to establish processing maps for various materials and techniques, and the challenges currently faced in metal AM are then highlighted. The final section provides an outlook for the future of research in AM of metals.
Borate's effects on coatings by PEO on AZ91D alloy
Authors: Gu Chaofeng , Wang Linlin , Hu Xin , Dong Weiping , DaCosta Herbert
Published: February 2017

This research is to produce corrosion protection coatings on magnesium alloys (AZ91D) with good performance and less time and less power consumption by optimising the electrolytes used in plasma electrolytic oxidation processes. Coatings were produced in a NaAlO2 solution and two composite electrolytes, namely NaAlO2/NaBO2 and NaAlO2/NaBO3. The effects of borate additives on the coating formation processes, phase structure, microstructure, and corrosion property are discussed. The results indicate that borate additives can greatly increase the coating growth rate and improve the corrosion property by strengthening the micro-arcing growth process and accelerating coating's fuse and re-crystallisation. The coating can have a thickness of about 40 μm with NaBO3 additives in NaAlO2 electrolyte after 50-min treatment. The coating thickness is only 8 μm using NaAlO2 electrolyte. Specifically, the coating produced in NaBO3–NaAlO2 solution achieves the best corrosion resistance among all the coatings due to its uniform, dense, and thick structure.
Genetic Line by Environment Interaction on Rainbow Trout Growth and Processing Traits
Authors: Cleveland Beth M , Leeds Timothy D , Rexroad Caird E , Summerfelt Steven T , Good Christopher M , Davidson John W , May Travis , Crouse Curtis , Wolters William R , Plemmons Bryan , Kenney P Brett
Published: February 2017

Genetic line-by-environment (G×E) interactions were determined for growth and processing traits of five genetic lines of Rainbow Trout Oncorhynchus mykiss reared in four environments. Genetic lines included (1) a mixed pool of 109 families selectively bred for improved growth (Growth Line) at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Center for Cool and Cold Water Aquaculture (NCCCWA; Kearneysville, West Virginia), (2) a mixed pool of 52 randomly bred families (Synthetic Control) and fish from three commercial sources, identified as (3) Commercial A, (4) Commercial B, and (5) Commercial C. Two study locations (NCCCWA and The Conservation Fund's Freshwater Institute [FI], Shepherdstown, West Virginia) contained all five genetic lines of fish while the remaining two sites (USDA National Cold Water Marine Aquaculture Center, Franklin, Maine, and Casta Line Trout Farm, Goshen, Virginia) contained only the Growth Line and Commercial A fish. Fish were PIT-tagged and allowed to comingle at all locations except at Casta Line where Growth Line and Commercial A fish were stocked into separate raceway sections. Performance of the Growth Line and Commercial A fish across all locations were used to detect G×E interactions. Body weight of the Growth Line fish was similar to or exceeded that of Commercial A fish, and the G×E interaction for growth was beyond 1 year of age (P < 0.05). A G×E interaction occurred for condition factor (CF), and the Growth Line fish generally exhibited a higher CF than did the Commercial A fish. There was a G×E interaction for fillet yield in fish harvested at 500 g or less, with no G×E effect for butterfly yield, viscera yield, or final mortality. Data from all five genetic lines at NCCCWA and FI indicate that large differences in genetic potential for growth and processing traits are not significantly affected by G×E interactions
Looking like a state
Authors: Andrews Matt , Pritchett Lant , Woolcock Michael
Published: February 2017

In this chapter we argue that isomorphic mimicry is a key “technique of successful failure” that perpetuates capability traps in development. In the context of this study, isomorphic mimicry is the tendency of governments to mimic other governments’ successes, replicating processes, systems, and even products of the “best practice” examples. This mimicry often conflates form and function: leading to a situation where “looks like” substitutes for “does”; i.e., governments look capable after the mimicry but are not actually more capable. We argue that this is endemic in development and has become a primary reason why countries do not build real capability even after years of policy and reform engagement and billions of dollars of capacity building work. We suggest that the tendency to so mimic is amplified by the current development ecosystem, especially where public sectors have become closed to novelty but open (and supportive of) agenda conformity. Such characteristics make it very hard for states to build the new capabilities needed, for their contexts, given their realities.
BioJava-ModFinder: identification of protein modifications in 3D structures from the Protein Data Bank
Authors: Gao Jianjiong , Prlić Andreas , Bi Chunxiao , Bluhm Wolfgang F , Dimitropoulos Dimitris , Xu Dong , Bourne Philip E , Rose Peter W
Published: February 2017

We developed a new software tool, BioJava-ModFinder, for identifying protein modifications observed in 3D structures archived in the Protein Data Bank (PDB). Information on more than 400 types of protein modifications were collected and curated from annotations in PDB, RESID, and PSI-MOD. We divided these modifications into three categories: modified residues, attachment modifications, and cross-links. We have developed a systematic method to identify these modifications in 3D protein structures. We have integrated this package with the RCSB PDB web application and added protein modification annotations to the sequence diagram and structure display. By scanning all 3D structures in the PDB using BioJava-ModFinder, we identified more than 30 000 structures with protein modifications, which can be searched, browsed, and visualized on the RCSB PDB website.

Availability and Implementation

BioJava-ModFinder is available as open source (LGPL license) at (https://github.com/biojava/biojava/tree/master/biojava-modfinder). The RCSB PDB can be accessed at http://www.rcsb.org.
A Critical Role of Inhibition in Temporal Processing Maturation in the Primary Auditory Cortex
Authors: Cai Dongqin , Han Rongrong , Liu Miaomiao , Xie Fenghua , You Ling , Zheng Yi , Zhao Limin , Yao Jun , Wang Yiwei , Yue Yin , Schreiner Christoph E , Yuan Kexin
Published: February 2017

Faithful representation of sound envelopes in primary auditory cortex (A1) is vital for temporal processing and perception of natural sounds. However, the emergence of cortical temporal processing mechanisms during development remains poorly understood. Although cortical inhibition has been proposed to play an important role in this process, direct in-vivo evidence has been lacking. Using loose-patch recordings in rat A1 immediately after hearing onset, we found that stimulus-following ability in fast-spiking neurons was significantly better than in regular-spiking (RS) neurons. In-vivo whole-cell recordings of RS neurons revealed that inhibition in the developing A1 demonstrated much weaker adaptation to repetitive stimuli than in adult A1. Furthermore, inhibitory synaptic inputs were of longer duration than observed in vitro and in adults. Early in development, overlap of the prolonged inhibition evoked by 2 closely following stimuli disrupted the classical temporal sequence between excitation and inhibition, resulting in slower following capacity. During maturation, inhibitory duration gradually shortened accompanied by an improving temporal following ability of RS neurons. Both inhibitory duration and stimulus-following ability demonstrated exposure-based plasticity. These results demonstrate the role of inhibition in setting the pace for experience-dependent maturation of temporal processing in the auditory cortex.
Carbon-based supercapacitors for efficient energy storage
Authors: Chen Xuli , Paul Rajib , Dai Liming
Published: February 2017

The advancement of modern electronic devices depends strongly on the highly efficient energy sources possessing high energy density and power density. In this regard, supercapacitors show great promise. Due to the unique hierarchical structure, excellent electrical and mechanical properties, and high specific surface area, carbon nanomaterials (particularly, carbon nanotubes, graphene, mesoporous carbon and their hybrids) have been widely investigated as efficient electrode materials in supercapacitors. This review article summarizes progress in high-performance supercapacitors based on carbon nanomaterials with an emphasis on the design and fabrication of electrode structures and elucidation of charge-storage mechanisms. Recent developments on carbon-based flexible and stretchable supercapacitors for various potential applications, including integrated energy sources, self-powered sensors and wearable electronics, are also discussed.
Predictors of Human Papillomavirus Vaccine Initiation and Completion Among Latino Mothers of 11- to 17-Year-Old Daughters Living Along the Texas-Mexico Border
Authors: Morales-Campos Daisy Y. , Parra-Medina Deborah
Published: February 2017

Few Texas Latino girls initiate and complete the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine series, but few studies have examined predictors of initiation and completion in this group. Mothers are crucial to vaccine uptake. Using self-reported data from mothers of unvaccinated girls (n = 317), we examined the association between predictors (HPV and HPV vaccine knowledge, vaccine self-efficacy) and outcomes (initiation and completion). Despite an increase in HPV and HPV vaccine knowledge from baseline to follow-up (n = 195), we found no association between the predictors and the outcomes. Findings showed that health insurance status and study group participation (Entre Madre e Hija program or brochure only) were associated with initiation and completion.
Multi-Position Training Improves Robustness of Pattern Recognition and Reduces Limb-Position Effect in Prosthetic Control
Authors: Beaulieu Robert J. , Masters Matthew R. , Betthauser Joseph , Smith Ryan J. , Kaliki Rahul , Thakor Nitish V. , Soares Alcimar B.
Published: February 2017

Introduction

Electromyogram (EMG)-based pattern recognition control of prosthetic limbs is the current state of the art. However, these systems commonly fail when the user attempts to use the limb in a different position from which it was trained, resulting in significantly reduced functionality. Robust models for decoding EMG signals, accounting for specific changes that occur with positional variation, are needed to reduce this negative effect.

Methods

Ten able-bodied participants and two participants with transradial amputation were included in the study. Participants were fitted with surface EMG electrodes as well as a network of inertial measurement units (IMUs) to monitor limb position during tasks. Positional covariates including elbow angle, hand height, and forearm angle were analyzed for impact on EMG signal features to drive the generation of unique LDA classifier algorithms. Offline analysis of classification error for each control scheme was then completed.

Results

Elbow angle demonstrated the strongest impact on the EMG signal. Hand height also demonstrated a consistent increase in EMG signal with increasing height. Incorporating these specific covariates into classifier algorithms improved performance compared with classifiers trained in the conventional fashion (single-position EMG). However, able-bodied participants demonstrated lowest classification error when data from random-training positions were incorporated (10.3% vs. 17.2% single position, P < 0.001). These results were even more dramatic in participants with amputation (with five training repetitions: 7.14% vs. 32.08%, P < 0.001). Performance differences between single-position and random-position training for individuals with amputations were significantly larger when the user was wearing his/her prosthesis than otherwise.

Conclusions

Incorporating position-specific covariates into myoelectric classification algorithms can dramatically improve robustness and classification accuracy when using the prosthesis in the user's entire workspace. In single-position training paradigms, classification error rates were 39.22% and 32.18%, respectively, for two participants with amputation and resulted in unusable classifiers. Conversely, classification errors were at 10% for able-bodied and near 7% for participants with amputation when at least five training repetitions were used to train either a random position or position-specific classifier. As position-tracking hardware becomes smaller and can be implemented into socket designs, incorporating this information into classifier algorithms can dramatically reduce the limb-position effect. Current users can experience reduction of the limb-position effect through training in multiple random positions.
Combined Intratympanic and Systemic Use of Steroids as a First-Line Treatment for Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized, Controlled Trials
Authors: Han Xue , Yin Xiao , Du Xiaodong , Sun Changling
Published: February 2017

Objective:

To compare the efficacy of combination therapy (combined intratympanic and systemic use of steroids, CT) with systemic steroid therapy (SST) as a primary treatment for sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL).

Methods:

An electronic database search (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and CNKI databases) was performed. Review Manger 5.3 was used for data synthesis. Data were collected on the following outcomes of interest: the proportion of patients with hearing improvement, changes in pure tone averages (PTA), and speech discrimination score (SDS).

Results:

A total of 14 RCTs including 756 subjects allocated to CT and 638 to SST were selected. The proportion of patients with hearing improvement as outcome measure was observed in 13 studies, which resulted in an odds ratio (OR) of 2.50 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.95–2.1). The PTA changes (in dB) as outcome measure was observed in 12 studies, which resulted in mean difference (MD) 13 (95% CI: 9.24–16.77). SDS changes (in %) as outcome measure were reported in five studies, which resulted in MD 15.72 (95% CI: 5.11–26.33).

Conclusion:

CT seems to confer a certain degree of benefit as a primary treatment of SSNHL as compared with SST. Further validation based on high quality studies is required.
Rap1 in endothelial biology
Authors: Chrzanowska-Wodnicka Magdalena
Published: February 2017

Purpose of review

Ubiquitously-expressed small GTPase Rap1 is a key modulator of integrin- and cadherin-regulated processes. In endothelium, Rap1 promotes angiogenesis and endothelial barrier function, acting downstream from cAMP-activated Rap1GEF, Epac. Recent in-vivo studies in mouse models have provided more information about the physiological role of Rap1 in vessel development and after birth under normal and pathologic conditions. Important molecular details of dynamic regulation of endothelial barrier are uncovered.

Recent findings

Rap1 is not essential for initial vessel formation but is critical for vessel stabilization, as double knockout of the two Rap1 isoforms leads to hemorrhage and embryonic lethality. After development, Rap1 is not required for endothelial barrier maintenance but is critical for nitric oxide production and endothelial function. Radil and Afadin mediate Rap1 effects on endothelial barrier function by regulating connection with Rho GTPases, actomyosin cytoskeleton, and cell–cell adhesion receptors.

Rap1 is critically required for nitric oxide release and normal endothelial function in vivo. Mechanistic studies lead to a novel paradigm of Rap1 as a critical regulator of endothelial cell shear stress responses and endothelial homeostasis. Increased understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying endothelial barrier regulation may identify novel pharmacological targets for retinopathies and conditions with altered endothelial barrier function or when increased endothelial barrier is desired.
Honoring Motherhood
Authors: Reed Shelly J. , Callister Lynn Clark , Kavaefiafi ‘Ana , Corbett Cheryl , Edmunds Debra
Published: February 2017

Purpose:

The purpose of this ethnographic study was to describe the meaning of childbirth for Tongan women.

Study Design and Methods:

In this qualitative descriptive study, 38 Tongan women, 18 from Tonga and 20 from the United States, who had given birth in the past year were invited to share their perceptions of childbirth. Themes were generated collaboratively by the research team.

Findings:

The overarching theme was honoring motherhood; other themes include using strength to facilitate an unmedicated vaginal birth, describing the spiritual dimensions of birth, adhering to cultural practices associated with childbearing, and the influence of the concept of respect on childbearing.

Implications for Clinical Practice:

Understanding the value Tongan women and their families place on motherhood can help nurses to give culturally sensitive nursing care. Tongan beliefs and cultural practices should be respected. Nurses should assess women's personal preferences for their care and advocate for them as needed. Sensitivity to stoicism is important, especially on pain control and patient education. Nurses should be aware of Tongan values regarding modesty and respect, and provide an appropriate care environment. A culturally competent nurse understands the importance of sociocultural influences on women's health beliefs and behaviors and generates appropriate interventions.
Association of Self-reported Impulsivity to Nonsuicidal Self-Injury, Suicidality, and Mortality in Adolescent Psychiatric Inpatients
Authors: Alasaarela Lauri , Hakko Helinä , Riala Kaisa , Riipinen Pirkko
Published: February 2017

This study examines the association of self-reported impulsivity to nonsuicidal self-injury, suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, and completed suicides in a clinical sample of 508 Finnish adolescents (aged 12–17) treated in psychiatric inpatient care between April 2001 and March 2006. The Schedule for Affective Disorder and Schizophrenia for School-Age Children Present and Lifetime interview was used to gather information on psychiatric disorders, impulsivity, and suicidality of the adolescents. Mortality data were obtained from the national cause of death register. In adolescent girls, impulsivity was significantly associated with suicidal ideation and attempts and completed suicides in adolescent boys. Of adolescent boys with impulsivity, 10.4% had died by suicide during the follow-up time. For preventive purposes, health care professionals are encouraged asked adolescents targeted questions about impulsivity and to consider the associated risk of suicidality identified in this study.
Feasibility of Training Frontline Therapists in Prolonged Exposure
Authors: Ghafoori Bita , Hansen Marissa C. , Garibay Erika , Korosteleva Olga
Published: February 2017

The study aims were to determine whether prolonged exposure (PE) improved mental health and was feasible to implement by frontline clinicians in a culturally diverse sample with complex trauma. Seventy-one individuals were randomly assigned to PE or person-centered therapy (PCT). Outcome measures were administered at baseline and sessions 3, 6, 9, and 12. Mixed modeling was used to regress outcome measures on time, treatment group, and number of visits. Individuals who received PE showed significant moderate association with decline in reported posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms as noted by the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (p = 0.05) compared with PCT. Results indicated improved scores on all measures at each follow-up time point compared with baseline (p ≤ 0.01). PE was feasible, shown by positive recruitment and ability of clinicians to effectively implement and maintain treatment fidelity. Findings suggest that PE can be effective for treating complex trauma when used by clinicians in community settings.
The Neurobiology of Health Communication
Authors: Hall Peter A. , Erickson Kirk I. , Gianaros Peter J.
Published: February 2017

This issue of Psychosomatic Medicine describes findings from an innovative study by Kang et al that used neuroimaging methods to quantify neural responses to health communications. Findings indicated that sedentary individuals who hold self-transcendent values show attenuated limbic threat responses to communications about the benefits of physical activity. Furthermore, participants who were instructed to articulate such values showed some evidence of additional blunting of the same neural response. In this editorial, we provide context for the interpretation of these findings within the existing research using the brain-as-predictor approach, and other recent trends within biobehavioral medicine involving the use of neuroscience methods in the service of health behavior change.
A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Executive Function Performance in Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Broadley Melanie M. , White Melanie J. , Andrew Brooke
Published: February 2017

Objective

The aims of the study were to examine the current evidence for executive function (EF) performance differences between groups with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and nondiabetic control groups during adolescence and early adulthood and to explore the relationships between EF and diabetes-related risk factors.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature examining EF performance in groups with T1DM was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. Electronic database searches for published and unpublished literature yielded a final set of 26 articles after application of inclusion and exclusion criteria. A meta-analysis was conducted on a subset of these articles (n = 17) comparing EF performance in T1DM and control groups, across a total sample size of 1619.

Results

Sixteen of 26 studies found significantly lower EF on at least one task in groups with T1DM. Meta-analyses of the performance difference between T1DM groups and control groups without diabetes showed that inhibition (g = −0.28, p < .001), working memory (g = −0.34, p < .001), set-shifting (g = −0.31, p = .012), and overall EF performance across these domains (g = −0.42, p < .001) were all significantly lower in groups with T1DM. Performance on specific EF domains also seemed to be differentially associated with early age of diabetes onset, chronic hyperglycemia and its complications, and severe hypoglycemia.

Conclusions

T1DM and its associated risk factors are related to subtle impairments across the inhibition, working memory, and set-shifting domains of EF. Lower EF may be a key factor contributing to behavioral and clinical problems experienced by individuals with T1DM.
Campylobacter jejuni and associated immune mechanisms: short-term effects and long-term implications for infants in low-income countries
Authors: Schnee Amanda E. , Petri William A.
Published: February 2017

Purpose of review

Campylobacter jejuni is recognized as one of the most common causes of food-borne gastrointestinal illness worldwide, resulting in a self-limiting dysentery in developed countries. However, it is increasingly gaining attention due to its association with postinfectious complications such as Guillain–Barré Syndrome and recently recognized importance in early childhood diarrhea in developing countries. We hypothesize that the inflammation mediated by C. jejuni infection causes environmental enteric dysfunction, and with contribution from diet and the host, microbiome may be responsible for growth faltering in children and developmental disability.

Recent findings

Diet plays a major role in the impact of C. jejuni infection, both by availability of micronutrients for the bacteria and host as well as shaping the microbiome that affords resistance. Early childhood repeated exposure to the bacterium results in inflammation that affords long-term immunity but, in the short term, can lead to malabsorption, oral vaccine failure, cognitive delay and increased under-5 mortality.

As interest in C. jejuni increases, our understanding of its virulence mechanisms has improved. However, much work remains to be done to fully understand the implications of immune-mediated inflammation and its potential role in diseases such as environmental enteric dysfunction.
New concepts in understanding latent tuberculosis
Authors: Dodd Claire E. , Schlesinger Larry S.
Published: February 2017

Purpose of review

Mycobacterium tuberculosis(M.tb), the etiologic agent of tuberculosis, is a prominent global health threat because of the enormous reservoir of subclinical latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI). Current diagnostic approaches are limited in their ability to predict reactivation risk and LTBI is recalcitrant to antibiotic treatment. The present review summarizes recent advances in our ability to detect, treat and model LTBI as well as our understanding of bacterial physiology during latency.

Recent findings

T-cell subsets and circulating proteins have been identified which could serve as biomarkers for LTBI or indicators of reactivation risk. In addition, experimental and in-silico models have enabled discoveries regarding bacterial physiology during latency and the host immune response following infection with latentM.tb.

Despite recent advances, much more research is needed to bolster our ability to detect, implement treatment and model LTBI. The present work is crucial for the eradication of this global problem.
Deep Learning in Mammography
Authors: Becker Anton S. , Marcon Magda , Ghafoor Soleen , Wurnig Moritz C. , Frauenfelder Thomas , Boss Andreas
Published: February 2017

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of a multipurpose image analysis software based on deep learning with artificial neural networks for the detection of breast cancer in an independent, dual-center mammography data set.

Materials and Methods

In this retrospective, Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act-compliant study, all patients undergoing mammography in 2012 at our institution were reviewed (n = 3228). All of their prior and follow-up mammographies from a time span of 7 years (2008–2015) were considered as a reference for clinical diagnosis. After applying exclusion criteria (missing reference standard, prior procedures or therapies), patients with the first diagnosis of a malignoma or borderline lesion were selected (n = 143). Histology or clinical long-term follow-up served as reference standard. In a first step, a breast density-and age-matched control cohort was selected (n = 143) from the remaining patients with more than 2 years follow-up (n = 1003). The neural network was trained with this data set. From the publicly available Breast Cancer Digital Repository data set, patients with cancer and a matched control cohort were selected (n = 35 × 2). The performance of the trained neural network was also tested with this external data set. Three radiologists (3, 5, and 10 years of experience) evaluated the test data set. In a second step, the neural network was trained with all cases from January to September and tested with cases from October to December 2012 (screening-like cohort). The radiologists also evaluated this second test data set. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve between readers and the neural network were compared. A Bonferroni-corrected P value of less than 0.016 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Mean age of patients with lesion was 59.6 years (range, 35–88 years) and in controls, 59.1 years (35–83 years). Breast density distribution (A/B/C/D) was 21/59/42/21 and 22/60/41/20, respectively. Histologic diagnoses were invasive ductal carcinoma in 90, ductal in situ carcinoma in 13, invasive lobular carcinoma in 13, mucinous carcinoma in 3, and borderline lesion in 12 patients. In the first step, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the trained neural network was 0.81 and comparable on the test cases 0.79 (P = 0.63). One of the radiologists showed almost equal performance (0.83, P = 0.17), whereas 2 were significantly better (0.91 and 0.94, P < 0.016). In the second step, performance of the neural network (0.82) was not significantly different from the human performance (0.77–0.87, P > 0.016); however, radiologists were consistently less sensitive and more specific than the neural network.

Conclusions

Current state-of-the-art artificial neural networks for general image analysis are able to detect cancer in mammographies with similar accuracy to radiologists, even in a screening-like cohort with low breast cancer prevalence.
Risk Factors for Intractable Ascites After Adult-to-Adult Living Donor Liver Transplantation Using Left Lobe
Authors: Matsudaira Shinichi , Ishizaki Yoichi , Yoshimoto Jiro , Fujiwara Noriko , Kawasaki Seiji
Published: February 2017

Background

Intractable ascites is one of the causes of graft loss after adult-to-adult living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) using a small graft. Identification of factors associated with increasing posttransplant ascites has important implications for prevention and treatment.

Methods

All 59 consecutive adult patients who underwent left lobe LDLT without portal inflow modulation between October 2002 and February 2016 were prospectively enrolled. Factors associated with the average daily amount of ascites for 2 weeks after LDLT were assessed.

Results

The median daily amount of ascites during the 2 weeks was 1052 mL (range, 52-3480 mL). Although 16 of the 59 patients developed intractable ascites, exceeding 1500 mL daily (massive ascites group), the remaining 43 patients produced less than 1500 mL of ascites daily (nonmassive ascites group). The presence of pretransplant ascites (P = 0.001), albumin (P = 0.011), albumin/globulin ratio (P = 0.026), cold ischemia time (P = 0.004), operation time (P = 0.022), and pretransplant portal vein pressure (PVP) (P = 0.047) differed significantly between the 2 groups. Neither posttransplant PVP nor portal vein flow differed between the 2 groups. The variables associated with intractable ascites that remained significant after logistic regression analysis were pretransplant PVP (P = 0.047) and cold ischemia time (P = 0.049). After appropriate fluid resuscitation for intractable ascites, 58 (98%) of the 59 recipients were discharged from hospital after removal of the indwelling drains.

Conclusions

It is important to shorten the scold ischemia time to reduce massive ascites after LDLT. Pretransplant portal hypertension is more closely associated with ascites production than posttransplant hemodynamic status.
Preventing cognitive impairment in children with epilepsy
Authors: Braun Kees P.J.
Published: February 2017

Purpose of review

Cognitive impairments are common in children with epilepsy. They may already be present before the onset of epilepsy or occur – and even progress – during its course. Many variables contribute to cognitive dysfunction. Those that can be targeted to prevent (further) cognitive impairment will be highlighted in this review.

Recent findings

Ideally, but not yet realistically, epileptogenesis is prevented to avert seizures and cognitive impairments in high-risk patients. New and targeted treatments of progressive epileptogenic disorders and precision medicine approaches in genetic epilepsies are increasingly applied. Cognitive outcome benefits from early diagnosis and treatment of epileptic encephalopathy. Ongoing seizures may cause permanent and progressive changes in brain structure and connectivity, suggesting that early seizure control optimizes eventual cognitive functioning. Frequent interictal epileptiform discharges justify treatment in children with cognitive impairments that are otherwise unexplained. Cognitive adverse effects of antiepileptic drugs should be closely monitored and balanced against potential benefits. Finally, early surgical treatment in selected candidates will improve their cognitive outcome.

Although important determinants of intellectual functioning – including the child's genetic and environmental background and the epileptogenic pathology – may not be modifiable, several variables that contribute to cognitive impairment can be targeted to improve outcome. Early etiological diagnosis, personalized therapies, presurgical evaluation, and strict control of seizures – or in some patients interictal discharges – can prevent (further) cognitive impairments.
Neurocognitive outcomes for acute global acquired brain injury in children
Authors: Kirkham Fenella J.
Published: February 2017

Purpose of review

In children, acute global brain injury from traumatic brain injury (TBI) and nontraumatic coma has a substantial cost to the child, the family, and the society. There have historically been relatively few studies looking at long-term cognition and behavioural outcomes.

Recent findings

Long-term follow-up studies, population-based studies, and meta-analyses are now available for TBI in children as well as adults and suggest that there is a significant cognitive cost, particularly for processing speed, working memory, and intelligence quotient (IQ) in severe TBI. Poor attention is often a premorbid deficit. Children surviving a cardiac arrest typically have a reduction in IQ. The available data for meningitis suggest that IQ is within the normal range at follow-up in most but is lower than that of matched controls. For encephalitis, the main advances have been in the recognition of additional mechanisms for postinfectious causes, including autoimmune disorders and demyelination. MRI assists with diagnosis, particularly in infectious causes, and there is some evidence that it may be useful for prognosis, particularly in TBI.

For the essential randomized control trials of acute treatment and rehabilitation, cognitive or MRI endpoints may become feasible as otherwise the time frame for follow-up is too long for the implementation of change.
Thermal adaptation constrains the temperature dependence of ecosystem metabolism
Authors: Padfield Daniel , Lowe Chris , Buckling Angus , Ffrench-Constant Richard , Schaum Elisa , Jennings Simon , Shelley Felicity , Ólafsson Jón S. , Yvon-Durocher Gabriel
Published: February 2017

Gross primary production (GPP) is the largest flux in the carbon cycle, yet its response to global warming is highly uncertain. The temperature sensitivity of GPP is directly linked to photosynthetic physiology, but the response of GPP to warming over longer timescales could also be shaped by ecological and evolutionary processes that drive variation community structure and functional trait distributions. Here, we show that selection on photosynthetic traits within and across taxa dampen the effects of temperature on GPP across a catchment of geothermally heated streams. Autotrophs from cold streams had higher photosynthetic rates and after accounting for differences in biomass among sites, rates of ecosystem-level GPP were independent of temperature, despite a 20 ºC thermal gradient. Our results suggest that thermal adaptation constrains the long-term temperature dependence of GPP, and highlights the importance of considering physiological, ecological and evolutionary mechanisms when predicting how ecosystem-level processes respond to warming.