bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Frequency band selection based on the kurtosis of the squared envelope spectrum and its application in bearing fault diagnosis
Authors: Hu Chongqing , Peng Zhongxiao
Published: July 2015

Selection of a suitable frequency band for envelope analysis is a key step towards successful diagnosis of rolling element bearing faults. The band selection requirements include: (a) effectively avoiding the frequency range which contains irrelevant periodic impulses, and (b) keeping the feature of impulsiveness for bearing signals. Popular frequency band selection approaches often aim at searching for the band which maximizes the envelope kurtosis or the kurtosis of the envelope spectrum, and thus may not satisfy those requirements simultaneously when weak bearing signals are masked by strong noisy impulses. To resolve this issue, the energy of envelope signal and its energy distribution in the spectrum were taken into consideration in the proposed approach. It was shown that, for weak impulsive signals, the kurtosis of squared envelope spectrum (KSES) decreases as the bandwidth increases provided that the initial band is wide enough to contain most of the signal energy. The decreasing trend of KSES was then used to determine bandwidths for predefined center frequencies. From the obtained narrow bands, the one with a large bandwidth and a low KSES was selected for further analysis by comparing the value of a quality index. The bandwidth determination method and the final band selection criterion effectively excluded irrelevant periodic impulses in the selected band and ensured the high impulsiveness of the extracted signal. The proposed method was validated using experimental data obtained from a bearing rig and a planetary gearbox test rig, and its advantages were highlighted by comparing with fast kurtogram and protrugram.
Facial Trustworthiness Predicts Extreme Criminal-Sentencing Outcomes
Authors: Wilson John Paul , Rule Nicholas O.
Published: July 2015

Untrustworthy faces incur negative judgments across numerous domains. Existing work in this area has focused on situations in which the target’s trustworthiness is relevant to the judgment (e.g., criminal verdicts and economic games). Yet in the present studies, we found that people also overgeneralized trustworthiness in criminal-sentencing decisions when trustworthiness should not be judicially relevant, and they did so even for the most extreme sentencing decision: condemning someone to death. In Study 1, we found that perceptions of untrustworthiness predicted death sentences (vs. life sentences) for convicted murderers in Florida ( N = 742). Moreover, in Study 2, we found that the link between trustworthiness and the death sentence occurred even when participants viewed innocent people who had been exonerated after originally being sentenced to death. These results highlight the power of facial appearance to prejudice perceivers and affect life outcomes even to the point of execution, which suggests an alarming bias in the criminal-justice system.
Unsteady behavior of corner separation in a compressor cascade: Large eddy simulation and experimental study
Authors: Gao F , Zambonini G , Boudet J , Ottavy X , Lu L , Shao L
Published: July 2015

The present study carried out a pure large eddy simulation (LES) on a NACA65 linear compressor cascade (chord-based Reynolds number: 382 000), at an incidence angle of 4°. In this configuration, a corner separation at the juncture of the blade suction side and the end-wall is clearly observed experimentally. For the simulation, 852 CPUs are used in parallel and particular attention is paid to the inflow conditions, coupling LES with the calculation of the inlet boundary layer and associated velocity fluctuations. The shear-improved Smagorinsky model, which has been proved to be competent for turbomachines, is used in this study. Numerical results are carefully compared with pressure measurements, two-dimensional and stereo particle image velocimetry. LES is found to be superior to Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes approach in predicting the three-dimensional separated flows in the compressor cascade since pressure coefficients and losses are in very good agreement with the experiment. LES has been proven to simulate also the unsteady behavior of the separation. Finally, the experimental and numerical analysis of the inflow angle reveals high fluctuations of incidence upstream the leading edge of the blade near the end-wall, mostly associated with the incoming wall boundary layer.
Modifying the marsh: Evaluating Early Epipaleolithic hunter-gatherer impacts in the Azraq wetland, Jordan
Authors: Ramsey Monica N , Jones Matthew , Richter Tobias , Rosen Arlene M
Published: July 2015

The ecological impacts of human activities have infiltrated the whole of the ‘natural world’ and precipitated calls for a newly defined geological epoch – the Anthropocene. While scholars discuss tipping-points and scale, viewed over the longue durée, it is becoming clear that we have inherited the compounding consequences of a constructed environment with a long history of human landscape modification. By linking phytolith and micro-charcoal evidence from sediments in the Azraq Basin, Jordan, we discuss potential Early Epipaleolithic (23,000–17,400 cal. BP) human–environment interactions in this wetland. Our analyses reveal that during the Last Glacial Maximum, Levantine hunter-gatherers could have had a noticeable and increasing impact on their environment. However, further work needs to be undertaken to assess the range, frequency, intensity, and intentionality of marsh disturbance events. We suggest that the origin of ‘persistent places’ and larger aggregation settlements in the Azraq Basin may have been, in part, facilitated by human–environment interactions in the Early Epipaleolithic that consequently enhanced the economic and, subsequently, social meaning of that landscape. Through their exploitation of the sensitive wetland environment, hunter-gatherers were modifying the marshes and initiating long-term changes to the already dynamic and changing landscape at the close of the Pleistocene. These findings challenge us to further reconsider the way we see early hunter-gatherers in the prehistory of the Levant and in the development of the ‘Anthropocene’.
The onset of the palaeoanthropocene in Iceland: Changes in complex natural systems
Authors: Streeter Richard , Dugmore Andrew J , Lawson Ian T , Erlendsson Egill , Edwards Kevin J
Published: July 2015

Pre-industrial human impacts on the past environment are apparent in different proxy records at different times in different places. Recognizing environmentally transformative human impacts in palaeoenvironmental archives, as opposed to natural variability, is a key challenge in understanding the nature of the transition to the Earth’s current ‘Anthropocene’ condition. Here, we consider the palaeoenvironmental record for Iceland over the past 2.5 ka, both before and after the late ninth century human settlement ( landnám). The Scandinavian colonization of the island was essentially abrupt, involving thousands of people over a short period. The colonization triggered extensive changes in Icelandic ecosystems and landscapes. A volcanic ash known as the Landnám tephra was deposited over most of Iceland immediately before the settlement began. The Landnám tephra layer thus provides a uniquely precise litho-chrono-stratigraphic marker of colonization. We utilize this marker horizon as an independent definition of the effective onset of the local palaeoanthropocene (which is conceptually related to, but distinct from, the global Anthropocene). This allows us to evaluate proxy records for human impact on the Icelandic environment and to assess how and when they show transformative impact. Based on this analysis, we consider the implications for understanding and defining the Anthropocene in those areas of the Earth where such a clear independent marker of the onset of significant human impacts is lacking.
Anthropocene archaeology of the Yellow River, China, 5000–2000 BP
Authors: Kidder Tristram R , Zhuang Yijie
Published: July 2015

In this paper, we use geoarchaeological and paleoenvironmental data from three localities in the Yellow River Valley, China – Taosi, Sanyangzhuang, and the Yiluo Valley – to argue that human activity in the mid- to late-Holocene contributed to large-scale changes in the behavior of the Yellow River and that these changes were of sufficient magnitude to bend the arc of China’s history. Massive anthropogenic landscape transformation from the later Neolithic into the early Dynastic periods, especially in the Chinese Loess Plateau, increased sedimentation in the Yellow River requiring intensive investment in flood control features to protect an ever-growing population. As the Yellow River channel aggraded, channel gradients became increasingly steep, and avulsions occurred with greater frequency and consequence. Flooding reached an apogee in the first decades of the Common Era when a massive avulsion of the Yellow River ca. 14–17 CE caused the river to shift to the south and east of its former channel. This avulsion and the catastrophic flooding that followed triggered the collapse of the Western Han dynasty. The Yellow River – known as ‘China’s Tribulation’ – has been seen as a natural scourge that afflicts the inhabitants of the fertile North China Plain. However, when viewed in an Anthropocene perspective, it is evident that China’s Tribulation largely is the result of human manipulation of the environment.
Colchicine: a simple and effective treatment for pericarditis in systemic lupus erythematosus? A report of 10 cases
Authors: Morel N , Bonjour M , Le Guern V , Le Jeunne C , Mouthon L , Piette J-C , Costedoat-Chalumeau N
Published: July 2015

Objectives

Pericardial involvement is a frequent manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Growing evidence suggests that colchicine may be useful for acute or recurrent pericarditis. We report for the first time a series of 10 consecutive cases of SLE with pericarditis treated with colchicine.

Methods

Inclusion criteria in this retrospective study were diagnosis of SLE, pericarditis and receiving colchicine.

Results

We included 10 consecutive cases of SLE with pericarditis treated with colchicine (nine women, mean age at the index pericarditis 35 ± 12 years). Pericarditis was the initial manifestation of SLE for two patients, whereas eight patients had SLE lasting for a median of 2.5 years (15 days to 13 years) and had received prednisone ( n = 7, 2–30 mg/d), hydroxychloroquine ( n = 7), azathioprine ( n = 3), methotrexate ( n = 2), and mycophenolate mofetil ( n = 1). For six patients, pericarditis was associated with other SLE manifestations. Altogether, colchicine avoided the use ( n = 2) or increase in dosage ( n = 5) of steroids in seven cases; the increase in steroids dosage was minimal for two patients. Colchicine 1 mg was given for a median of 39 days (10 days to 54 months). Symptoms completely resolved after a median of 2.5 days (1–30 days) after initiation of colchicine. Colchicine was maintained or resumed in six patients to prevent recurrence, with no further relapse.

Conclusions

Colchicine may be safe and effective in treating SLE pericarditis and used as a steroids-sparing agent. These preliminary results need to be confirmed in a larger study with longer follow-up.
Determination of clinically significant tests for antiphospholipid antibodies and cutoff levels for obstetric antiphospholipid syndrome
Authors: Kitaori T , Sugiura-Ogasawara M , Oku K , Papisch W , Ebara T , Ozaki Y , Katano K , Atsumi T
Published: July 2015

Objective

The objective of this paper is to determine which kinds of assays for antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) should be tested for clinical practice for patients with recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL).

Materials and methods

We studied 560 patients with a history of RPL prospectively. We determined the obstetric significance of 11 commercially available tested assays for lupus anticoagulant (LA)-aPTT StaClot, phosphatidylserine-dependent antiprothrombin (aPS/PT) IgG, IgM, classical cardiolipin (CL) IgG, IgM, CL IgG, IgM, IgA, and β2glycoprotein I (β2GPI) IgG, IgM, IgA Phadia. Obstetric significance was defined as the potential for anticoagulant therapy to improve the subsequent live birth rate, or a difference in the live birth rate between positive and negative untreated cases.

Results

The LA-aPTT StaClot assay and aPS/PT IgG assay, but not CL IgG, were found to have obstetric significance. Our conventional tests covered positive cases with the aPS/PT IgM and classical CL IgG assays. The results of the LA-aPTT StaClot, LA-aPTT and LA-RVVT assays showed different distributions, although strong or moderate correlation was observed.

Conclusion

LA-aPTT StaClot and aPS/PT IgG might be suitable for use in routine practice for patients with RPL. Each test for aPL should be ascertained for obstetric significance, because similar assays may have different outcomes.
Relative efficacy and safety of tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil, and cyclophosphamide as induction therapy for lupus nephritis: a Bayesian network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Lee Y H , Song G G
Published: July 2015

Aims

This study aimed to assess the relative efficacy and safety of tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and cyclophosphamide (CYC) as induction therapy for lupus nephritis.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining the efficacy and safety of tacrolimus, MMF and CYC for induction therapy in patients with lupus nephritis were included. We performed a Bayesian random-effects network meta-analysis to combine direct and indirect evidence from the RCTs.

Results

Nine RCTs including 972 patients met the inclusion criteria and pair-wise comparisons were performed, including 11 direct comparisons. Tacrolimus showed a significantly higher overall response rate (complete remission plus partial remission) than CYC (OR 2.35, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.03–5.45), and was more efficacious than MMF (OR 1.60, 95% CI 0.70–3.57). MMF was superior to CYC in terms of overall response (OR 1.45, 95% CI 0.96–2.42). Ranking probability based on the surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) indicated that tacrolimus had the highest probability of being the best treatment for achieving the overall response (SUCRA = 0.9321), followed by MMF (SUCRA = 0.5385) and CYC (SUCRA = 0.0294). In terms of safety, tacrolimus showed the highest probability of decreasing the risk of serious infections (SUCRA = 0.9253), followed by MMF (SUCRA = 0.4027) and CYC (SUCRA = 0.1720).

Conclusions

Tacrolimus was the most efficacious induction treatment for patients with lupus nephritis, and had the highest probability of decreasing the risk of serious infections. Higher remission rates combined with a more favorable safety profile suggest that MMF is superior to CYC as induction treatment in these patients.
A Peripheral Dentinogenic Ghost Cell Tumor With Immunohistochemical Investigations and a Literature Review–Based Clinicopathological Comparison Between Peripheral and Central Variants
Authors: Jayasooriya Primali Rukmal , Mendis Balapuwaduge Ranjit Rigorbert Nihal , Lombardi Tommaso
Published: July 2015

The aim of the study was to present a peripheral dentinogenic ghost cell tumor (DGCT) and to describe clinicopathological differences between peripheral and central variants of the tumor using a selected literature review. The case report is based on a swelling present on the alveolar ridge of a 74-year-old edentulous denture wearer. The lesion was diagnosed as a peripheral DGCT after excluding the presence of a central lesion. Immunohistochemical investigations revealed similar cytokeratin expression pattern, with CK14 and MNF116 positivity in both the tumor and the surrounding surface epithelium. However, in contrast, CK19 expression was restricted to less than 5% of the tumor cells. A clinicopathological comparison was compiled using 30 cases of peripheral DGCTs (including the present lesion) and 16 cases of central DGCTs published over a period of 40 years. Accordingly, peripheral lesions were more often found in elderly denture wearers, in relation to mandibular gingiva and alveolar mucosa. None of the lesions had recurred after excision. In contrast, majority of the central lesions were common in younger individuals and showed a striking male predilection. It occurred equally on both jaws, while approximately 50% of the lesions gave rise to recurrences. In conclusion, similar cytokeratin expression in both the tumor and surface epithelium can be used to support oral surface epithelial origin, while CK14 positivity confirms the odontogenic derivation of the peripheral DGCT described in the report. In contrast to central DGCT, the peripheral DGCT is a distinct lesion with characteristic clinicopathological profile and nonaggressive behavior.
Primary Ureteral Thyroid Transcription Factor 1–Positive Small Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma
Authors: Acosta Andrés Martin , Hamedani Farid Saei , Meeks Joshua James , Wu Shoujin
Published: July 2015

Upper urinary tract neoplasms comprise only 5% of urinary malignancies overall, the overwhelming majority showing an urothelial histology. Nonurothelial lesions represent 1.9% of upper tract neoplasms, and small cell carcinomas (SmCCs) only account for a minute fraction of them, with few cases reported in the literature to date. In the genitourinary tract, these lesions are most frequently found in the urinary bladder, where they tend to show a mixed histology with a characteristic small cell neuroendocrine component that is positive for chromogranin A, synaptophysin, and CD56 immunostains. Urinary SmCCs are almost invariably aggressive, with a propensity to infiltrate surrounding tissues and vascular structures. Unfortunately, clinical stage at presentation is often advanced, with early dissemination to lymph nodes or distant organs in a significant proportion of patients. For the most part, prognosis is dismal and can be predicted by the pathologic stage at diagnosis. Recently, new chemotherapeutic regimens have shown some potential benefit for the treatment of urinary SmCC, albeit not achieving curative results. Here we present the case of a 71-year-old male patient with a history of treated bladder urothelial carcinoma that presented with subacute flank pain and was diagnosed with a primary pure SmCC of the ureter. Besides the usual neuroendocrine immunomarkers, this tumor showed intense positivity for TTF-1 (thyroid transcription factor-1), a phenomenon that has been described for extrapulmonary SmCC of other locations.
Gradual Metatarsal Lengthening by External Fixation
Authors: Barbier Dominique , Neretin Andrei , Journeau Pierre , Popkov Dimitry
Published: July 2015

Background:

The surgical management of brachymetatarsia remains controversial, and choice is based on potential complications. We report a classification of complications based on severity, and we hypothesized that use of a semicircular external fixator would minimize severe complications in lateral metatarsal lengthening.

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed 30 patients (10 to 46 years old) with single or multiple brachymetatarsia and performed 54 metatarsal lengthenings with a mean follow-up of 7 months.

Results:

The mean gain in length was 15 mm (33.7%), and the mean healing index was 67 d/cm. No further procedure was performed. No dislocations or subluxations were reported, but 26 complications (48.1%) occurred, classified as 1 severe (1.8% of the metatarsals), 5 intermediate (9.3%), and 20 benign (37%): 4 incomplete osteotomies, 8 adjacent metatarsal osteotomies, 2 involuntary adjacent metatarsal fixations due to the lack of fluoroscopy use, 6 early consolidations, 2 metatarsal fractures, 2 skin complications, 1 superficial infection, and 1 metatarsophalangeal clinodactyly.

Conclusion:

A classification of complications based on severity was developed. Gradual lengthening of the lateral metatarsals by semicircular external fixation reduced the risk of severe complications because of stability without donor site morbidity. Thin wires were an advantage in the pediatric population.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, retrospective case series.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Authors: Bestmann Sven , Duque Julie
Published: July 2015

Preparing actions requires the operation of several cognitive control processes that influence the state of the motor system to ensure that the appropriate behavior is ultimately selected and executed. For example, some form of competition resolution ensures that the right action is chosen among alternatives, often in the presence of conflict; at the same time, impulse control ought to be deployed to prevent premature responses. Here we review how state-changes in the human motor system during action preparation can be studied through motor-evoked potentials (MEPs) elicited by transcranial magnetic stimulation over the contralateral primary motor cortex (M1). We discuss how the physiological fingerprints afforded by MEPs have helped to decompose some of the dynamic and effector-specific influences on the motor system during action preparation. We focus on competition resolution, conflict and impulse control, as well as on the influence of higher cognitive decision–related variables. The selected examples demonstrate the usefulness of MEPs as physiological readouts for decomposing the influence of distinct, but often overlapping, control processes on the human motor system during action preparation.
Deconstructing Incidents of Female Perpetrated Sex Crimes
Authors: Budd Kristen M. , Bierie David M. , Williams Katria
Published: July 2015

Very little is known about co-offending by female sexual offenders (FSOs), especially in terms of diverse forms of offender groupings. To address this gap in the literature, this study uses 21 years (1992-2012) of National Incident-Based Reporting System data to analyze incidents of sexual offending committed by four female groupings: solo FSOs ( n = 29,238), coed pairs consisting of one male and one FSO ( n = 11,112), all-female groups ( n = 2,669), and multiple perpetrator groups that consist of a combination of three or more FSOs and male sexual offenders (MSOs; n = 4,268). Using a multinomial logistic regression model, the data show significant differences in offender, victim, and crime context incident characteristics. The data also indicate that incidents with solo FSOs and all-female groups have similar characteristics, coed pairs and multiple perpetrator incidents have similar characteristics, and these two categorizations are fairly distinct from one another. Implications of this research are discussed in addition to directions for future research on female sexual offending.
Rheological and interfacial properties at the equilibrium of almond gum tree exudate (Prunus dulcis) in comparison with gum arabic
Authors: Mahfoudhi Nesrine , Sessa Mariarenata , Ferrari Giovanna , Hamdi Salem , Donsi Francesco
Published: July 2015

Almond gum contains an arabinogalactan-type polysaccharide, which plays an important role in defining its interfacial and rheological properties. In this study, rheological and interfacial properties of almond gum and gum arabic aqueous dispersions were comparatively investigated. The interfacial tension of almond gum and gum arabic aqueous dispersions was measured using the pendant drop method in hexadecane. The asymptotic interfacial tension values for almond gum were significantly lower than the corresponding values measured for gum arabic, especially at high concentration. Rheological properties were characterized by steady and oscillatory tests using a coaxial geometry. Almond gum flow curves exhibited a shear thinning non-Newtonian behavior with a tendency to a Newtonian plateau at low shear rate, while gum arabic flow curves exhibited such behavior only at high shear rate. The influence of temperature (5–50  ℃) on the flow curves was studied at 4% (m/m) gum concentration and the Newtonian viscosities at infinite and at zero shear rate, for gum arabic and almond gum, respectively, were accurately fitted by an Arrhenius-type equation. The dynamic properties of the two gum dispersions were also studied. Both gum dispersions exhibited viscoelastic properties, with the viscous component being predominant in a wider range of concentrations for almond gum, while for gum arabic the elastic component being higher than the elastic one especially at higher concentrations.

The rheological and interfacial tension properties of almond gum suggest that it may represent a possible substitute of gum arabic in different food applications.
The Impact of Asking Intention or Self-Prediction Questions on Subsequent Behavior
Authors: Wood Chantelle , Conner Mark , Miles Eleanor , Sandberg Tracy , Taylor Natalie , Godin Gaston , Sheeran Paschal
Published: July 2015

The current meta-analysis estimated the magnitude of the impact of asking intention and self-prediction questions on rates of subsequent behavior, and examined mediators and moderators of this question–behavior effect (QBE). Random-effects meta-analysis on 116 published tests of the effect indicated that intention/prediction questions have a small positive effect on behavior ( d+ = 0.24). Little support was observed for attitude accessibility, cognitive dissonance, behavioral simulation, or processing fluency explanations of the QBE. Multivariate analyses indicated significant effects of social desirability of behavior/behavior domain (larger effects for more desirable and less risky behaviors), difficulty of behavior (larger effects for easy-to-perform behaviors), and sample type (larger effects among student samples). Although this review controls for co-occurrence of moderators in multivariate analyses, future primary research should systematically vary moderators in fully factorial designs. Further primary research is also needed to unravel the mechanisms underlying different variants of the QBE.
Using Reframing to Reduce Negative Statements in Social Conversation for Adults With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Koegel Lynn Kern , Navab Anahita , Ashbaugh Kristen , Koegel Robert L.
Published: July 2015

This study examined the effects of teaching the reframing of negative statements through self-management and video-feedback on social conversation in adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). A multiple baseline design across five participants showed that, following intervention, all were able to increase their positive and neutral statements while decreasing negative statements, with generalization to peers in new settings. In addition, four of the five participants’ affect and interest improved following the intervention, and three were rated as more socially desirable. Furthermore, post-treatment improvements were noted on standardized measures of depression, anxiety, and hopelessness. Results are discussed in terms of improving general social communicative interactions and quality of life in adults with ASD.
Impact of Cosmetic Camouflage on the Quality of Life of Children With Skin Disease and Their Families
Authors: Salsberg Jennifer M. , Weinstein Miriam , Shear Neil , Lee Michelle , Pope Elena
Published: July 2015

Background/Objectives:

Cosmetic camouflage is known to improve quality of life in adults. Few data are available regarding cosmetic camouflage in children, and thus it is not often selected as a mode of treatment. We sought to determine whether cosmetic camouflage leads to improved quality of life of pediatric patients with visible dermatoses and their parent or primary caregiver.

Methods:

Patients aged 5 to 17 years with visible skin disease and their parent were assessed with the Children’s Dermatology Life Quality Index (CDLQI) and the Family Dermatology Life Quality Index (FDLQI) before and after consultation regarding cosmetic camouflage.

Results:

Twenty-two children with skin conditions were included in the study. The mean CDLQI decreased from 6.82 (SD = 1.28) to 3.05 (SD = 0.65; P = .0014), while the mean FDLQI decreased from 7.68 (SD = 1.15) to 4.68 (SD = 0.92; P = .0012).

Conclusions:

Our study highlighted improvement in quality of life in patients with skin disorders who were managed with cosmetic camouflage.
Cutaneous Adverse Events in Chronic Hepatitis C Patients Treated With New Direct-Acting Antivirals
Authors: Patel Parth , Malik Kunal , Krishnamurthy Karthik
Published: July 2015

Background:

Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) are known to present with additional dermatological events over pegylated-interferon/ribavirin (Peg-IFN/RBV).

Objective:

A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to assess the incidence/risk of cutaneous adverse events (AEs) for simeprevir, sofosbuvir, ABT450/r-ombitasvir, dasabuvir, ledipasvir, daclatasvir, and asunaprevir.

Methods:

The databases searched included PubMed, Clinicaltrials.gov, and Clinicaloptions.com. Data on telaprevir and boceprevir were obtained from a previous study.

Results:

The incidences of cutaneous AEs were 34.3% (95% CI 18.4%-54.8%) for the old DAAs + Peg-IFN/RBV, 22.0% (95% CI 17.9%-26.8%) for the new DAAs + Peg-IFN/RBV, 9.8% (95% CI 8.6%-11.2%) for the DAAs + RBV, and 3.8% (95% CI 2.4%-6.1%) for DAAs only. Simeprevir + Peg-IFN/RBV was associated with an increased relative risk over Peg-IFN/RBV; RR = 1.319 (95% CI 1.026-1.697).

Conclusion:

Dermatological events are still an important issue for many of the new DAAs. Appropriate monitoring, management, and patient education are needed to minimize AEs and achieve HCV cure.
Neuropsychological correlates of multiple sclerosis across the lifespan
Authors: Nunan-Saah Julia , Paulraj Selvi R , Waubant Emmanuelle , Krupp Lauren B , Gomez Rowena G
Published: July 2015

Multiple sclerosis can adversely affect cognitive functioning whether the disease has an adult or pediatric onset. The research thus far suggests that pediatric MS shares many features with adult MS but is also unique in several respects. One particular characteristic of pediatric MS is that, while physical disability develops more slowly as compared with adult patients, the impact of cognitive deficits in children may be more substantial as they are in a period of life during which they acquire many skills that are needed to transition into independently functioning adults. Our review takes a lifespan approach to MS, comparing and contrasting the neuropsychology (i.e., cognitive, psychological, and psychosocial factors) of these two populations. Understanding how MS manifests across the lifespan has important implications for tailoring assessment and treatment for individuals with MS as they transition from childhood to adulthood, and later life.
Abnormal cerebellar functional MRI connectivity in patients with paediatric multiple sclerosis
Authors: Cirillo Sara , Rocca Maria A , Ghezzi Angelo , Valsasina Paola , Moiola Lucia , Veggiotti Pierangelo , Amato Maria P , Comi Giancarlo , Falini Andrea , Filippi Massimo
Published: July 2015

Objectives:

We investigated resting state functional connectivity (RSFC) of the cerebellar dentate nuclei in paediatric MS patients and its correlations with clinical, neuropsychological and structural MRI measures.

Methods:

RSFC analysis was performed using a seed-region correlation approach and SPM8 from 48 paediatric MS patients and 27 matched healthy controls.

Results:

In both groups, dentate nuclei RSFC was significantly correlated with RSFC of several cerebellar and extra-cerebellar brain regions. Compared with healthy controls, paediatric MS patients had reduced RSFC between the right dentate nuclei and the bilateral caudate nuclei and left thalamus as well as increased RSFC between the right dentate nuclei and the left precentral and postcentral gyri. Cognitively impaired patients showed a reduced RSFC between the dentate nuclei and bilateral regions located in the parietal, frontal and temporal lobes. Decreased RSFC was correlated with longer disease duration and higher T2 lesion volumes, whereas increased RSFC correlated with shorter disease duration, lower T2 lesion volume and a better motor performance.

Conclusions:

Modifications of cerebellar RSFC occur in paediatric MS and are influenced by the duration of the disease and brain focal lesions. Decreased RSFC may reflect early maladaptive plasticity contributing to cognitive impairment.
Combined analysis of global and compartmental brain volume changes in early multiple sclerosis in clinical practice
Authors: Pichler A , Khalil M , Langkammer C , Pinter D , Bachmaier G , Ropele S , Fuchs S , Enzinger C , Fazekas F
Published: July 2015

Background:

The extent and clinical significance of brain volume changes in different phases of multiple sclerosis (MS) is still under discussion.

Objective:

To determine the rate of global and compartmental brain volume changes in patients with a clinically-isolated syndrome (CIS) compared to patients with definite MS, by long-term follow-up and as a predictor of conversion to MS in a routine clinical setting.

Methods:

We investigated 120 patients (63 CIS and 57 MS) at baseline and after a mean follow-up period of 43 months, including detailed clinical examination and 3-Tesla magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Our imaging analyses comprised the normalized brain volume (NBV), cortical grey matter (cGMV) and white matter (WMV) volumes using SIENA/X, the percentage of brain volume change (PBVC) using SIENA and the change in the volume of the thalami (TV) and basal ganglia (BGV). We also determined the amount and change of T2-lesion load (T2-LL).

Results:

At baseline, all the brain volume metrics, except cGMV, were significantly lower; and the T2-LL was significantly higher, in patients with MS rather than CIS. During the follow-up, only the PBVC was higher in MS ( p = 0.008) and this difference was driven by converters from CIS to MS. Quartiles of PBVC did not allow us to predict conversion to MS, but were associated with the degree of disability.

Conclusions:

PBVC is the most sensitive marker of progressing atrophy and a higher PBVC was generally associated with more active disease; however, it did not serve to predict the course of MS on an individual basis, in this study.
Radiological differentiation of optic neuritis with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibodies, aquaporin-4 antibodies, and multiple sclerosis
Authors: Ramanathan Sudarshini , Prelog Kristina , Barnes Elizabeth H , Tantsis Esther M , Reddel Stephen W , Henderson Andrew PD , Vucic Steve , Gorman Mark P , Benson Leslie A , Alper Gulay , Riney Catherine J , Barnett Michael , Parratt John DE , Hardy Todd A , Leventer Richard J , Merheb Vera , Nosadini Margherita , Fung Victor SC , Brilot Fabienne , Dale Russell C
Published: July 2015

Background:

Recognizing the cause of optic neuritis (ON) affects treatment decisions and visual outcomes.

Objective:

We aimed to define radiological features of first-episode demyelinating ON.

Methods:

We performed blinded radiological assessment of 50 patients presenting with first-episode myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibody-associated ON (MOG-ON; n=19), aquaporin-4 (AQP4) antibody-associated ON (AQP4-ON; n=11), multiple sclerosis (MS)-associated ON (MS-ON; n=13), and unclassified ON ( n=7).

Results:

Bilateral involvement was more common in MOG-ON and AQP4-ON than MS-ON (84% vs. 82% vs. 23%), optic nerve head swelling was more common in MOG-ON (53% vs. 9% vs. 0%), chiasmal involvement was more common in AQP4-ON (5% vs. 64% vs. 15%), and bilateral optic tract involvement was more common in AQP4-ON (0% vs. 45% vs. 0%). Retrobulbar involvement was more common in MOG-ON, whereas intracranial involvement was more common in AQP4-ON. MOG-ON and AQP4-ON had longer lesion lengths than MS-ON. The combination of two predictors, the absence of magnetic resonance imaging brain abnormalities and a higher lesion extent score, showed a good ability to discriminate between an autoantibody-associated ON (MOG or AQP4) and MS. AQP4-ON more frequently had severe and sustained visual impairment.

Conclusion:

MOG-ON and AQP4-ON are more commonly bilateral and longitudinally extensive. MOG-ON tends to involve the anterior optic pathway, whereas AQP4-ON the posterior optic pathway.
Flow cytometric analysis of T cell/monocyte ratio in clinically isolated syndrome identifies patients at risk of rapid disease progression
Authors: Nemecek Andrea , Zimmermann Hilga , Rübenthaler Johannes , Fleischer Vinzenz , Paterka Magdalena , Luessi Felix , Müller-Forell Wibke , Zipp Frauke , Siffrin Volker
Published: July 2015

Background:

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic inflammatory central nervous system disease diagnosed by clinical presentation and characteristic magnetic resonance imaging findings. The role of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis has been emphasized in particular in the context of differential diagnosis in patients with a first episode suggestive of multiple sclerosis.

Objective:

We investigated here the potential additional value of analysis of CSF cellularity by fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS) in the setting of a routine diagnostic work-up in our inpatient clinic.

Methods:

CSF cells from back-up samples from patients with suspected chronic inflammatory central nervous system disorder were analyzed by FACS and correlated with clinical data, magnetic resonance imaging findings and oligoclonal band status.

Results:

We found distinct changes of T cell/monocyte (CD4/CD14) and B cell/monocyte (CD20/CD14) ratios between clinically isolated syndrome (CIS)/multiple sclerosis and other neurologic diseases or other inflammatory neurologic diseases. In particular, patients with a rapid transition from CIS to multiple sclerosis had an elevated CD4/CD14 ratio. A subgroup analysis showed diagnostic value of CD4/CD8 ratio in the differential diagnosis of CIS/multiple sclerosis to neurosarcoidosis.

Conclusion:

The diagnostic and prognostic accuracy of autoimmune neuroinflammatory diseases can be improved by FACS analysis of CSF cells.
Personality traits predict perceived health-related quality of life in persons with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Zarbo Ignazio Roberto , Minacapelli Eleonora , Falautano Monica , Demontis Silvia , Carpentras Giovanni , Pugliatti Maura
Published: July 2015

Background:

Personality traits can affect health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in different disorders. In multiple sclerosis (MS), personality traits can determine patients’ willingness to take on more risky treatment options, predispose to neuropsychiatric symptoms and affect coping strategies.

Objectives:

We investigated the role of personality traits as possible predictors of HRQoL in a large cohort of persons with MS (PwMS).

Methods:

In total, 253 consecutively recruited PwMS were screened for intellectual deficits with Raven Colour Progressive Matrices (RCPM), state anxiety with STAI-X1 and major depression on a clinical basis. PwMS’ self-perceived mental and physical health status was measured with the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), and the personality profile with the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire (EPQ-R). The correlation between HRQoL and personality traits was investigated by means of analysis of variance, adjusting for possible confounders.

Results:

Of the 253 MS patients, 195 (F:M=2.75), aged 41.7±10.2 years were included in the analysis. The variance of SF-36 mental and physical composite score was largely explained by extraversion and neuroticism.

Conclusions:

Our data confirm that PwMS’ HRQoL is largely influenced by personality traits, which may therefore act as predictors of perceived quality of life and should be included in clinical and experimental settings focusing on HRQoL.
Dimensions of political conflict in West and East
Authors: Coman Emanuel
Published: July 2015

This paper brings theoretical and empirical contributions to the scholarship on dimensions of politics in Europe. On the theoretical side it emphasizes the differences between Western and Eastern countries; we argue that while in Western Europe the main dimension of political conflict is the economic left-right, in Eastern Europe the main dimension is more likely to encompass cultural issues associated primarily with what in the Western literature is known as the secondary, social left-right. We trace the origin of the difference to the 1990s when parties in Eastern Europe chose to emphasize cultural issues to appeal to an electorate unfamiliar with capitalist economics and dissatisfied with the economic left associated with Communism and the economic right associated with painful reforms. To test this assertion we apply the Optimal Classification vote scaling method to an original dataset of over 24,000 votes from 22 European parliaments; the statistical tests support the hypothesis.
Relaxing the Constant Economic Vote Restriction
Authors: Williams Laron K , Stegmaier Mary , Debus Marc
Published: July 2015

The popularity function literature has traditionally focused on incumbent government support, even under coalition governments. Here, we shift the focus from the government to the parties. To what extent are German parties held accountable for economic conditions when they hold the Chancellorship, serve in coalition, or sit in opposition? Using Seemingly Unrelated Regression to relax the Constant Economic Vote Restriction, we simultaneously model separate monthly party support functions for the Christian Democrats (CDU/CSU), Social Democrats (SPD), Liberals (FDP), and Greens over the post-unification period. After controlling for temporal dynamics and political factors, we find that economic evaluations have the strongest effect on support for the SPD and CDU/CSU when they hold the Chancellorship, and both of these parties are strongly affected when in opposition. The FDP remains insulated from economic perceptions, despite the party’s emphasis on economic policy. Additionally, economic evaluations do not significantly change support for the Greens as an issue party.
Residential zip code influences outcomes following hospitalization for acute pulmonary embolism in the United States
Authors: Agarwal Shikhar , Menon Venu , Jaber Wael A
Published: July 2015

Socioeconomic status (SES) as reflected by residential zip code may adversely influence outcomes for patients with acute pulmonary embolism (PE). We sought to analyze the impact of neighborhood SES on in-hospital mortality, use of thrombolysis, implantation of inferior vena cava (IVC) filters and cost of hospitalization following acute PE. We used the 2003–2011 Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) for this analysis. All hospital admissions with a principal diagnosis of acute PE were identified using ICD-9 codes. Neighborhood SES was assessed using median household income of the residential zip code for each patient. Over this 9-year period, 276,484 discharges with acute PE were analyzed. There was a progressive decrease in in-hospital mortality across the SES quartiles ( p-trend <0.001). The incidence of in-hospital mortality across quartiles 1–4 was 3.8%, 3.3%, 3.2%, and 3.1%, respectively. Despite low rates of thrombolytic utilization in this cohort, we observed a progressive increase in the rate of thrombolysis utilization across the SES quartiles (1.5%, 1.6%, 1.7%, 2.0%; p-trend <0.001). There was no significant difference in the use of IVC filters across the SES quartiles ( p-trend=0.9). The mean adjusted cost of hospitalization among quartiles 2, 3, and 4, as compared to quartile 1, was significantly higher by $1202, $1650, and $1844, respectively ( p-trend<0.001). In conclusion, patients residing in zip codes with lower SES had increased in-hospital mortality and decreased utilization of thrombolysis following acute PE compared to patients residing in higher SES zip codes. The cost of hospitalization for patients from higher SES quartiles was significantly higher than those from lower quartiles.
What do the general population know, believe and feel about individuals with autism and schizophrenia: Results from a comparative survey in Denmark
Authors: Jensen Christina Mohr , Martens Caroline Skat , Nikolajsen Nanna Dagmar , Skytt Gregersen Trine , Heckmann Marx Nanna , Goldberg Frederiksen Mette , Hansen Martine Stene
Published: July 2015

Few studies investigate what members of the general population know about individuals with autism. Only one study has previously investigated how beliefs about autism differ from those about other psychiatric disorders. This study surveyed a convenience sample of the general adult population, within the Northern Region of Denmark, about their knowledge, attitudes and beliefs about individuals with autism and schizophrenia. The respondents (N = 440) possessed basic knowledge and were able to differentiate between the two disorders. Schizophrenia was associated with perceived danger (32.8%), while autism was associated with high intelligence (40.1%) and creativity (27.3%). Respondents were more positive towards interacting with individuals with autism (p < 0.001), but desire for social distancing was pronounced for both disorders in more intimate relationships. Significantly, more respondents reported that they would find it difficult and feel ashamed with regard to being diagnosed with schizophrenia (p < 0.001). Conversely, respondents significantly reported being more likely to elaborate on their diagnosis of autism to their colleagues (p < 0.001). Perceived dangerousness decreased the willingness for social interactions, while knowing someone with autism or schizophrenia increased the willingness to socially interact. Misconceptions and stigma must be addressed in order to minimize the social stigma and rejection associated with these disorders and ultimately improve the quality of life and psychological well-being of affected individuals and their families.
A description of medical conditions in adults with autism spectrum disorder: A follow-up of the 1980s Utah/UCLA Autism Epidemiologic Study
Authors: Jones Kyle B , Cottle Kristina , Bakian Amanda , Farley Megan , Bilder Deborah , Coon Hilary , McMahon William M
Published: July 2015

This study describes medical conditions experienced by a population-based cohort of adults with autism spectrum disorder whose significant developmental concerns were apparent during childhood. As part of a 25-year outcome study of autism spectrum disorder in adulthood, medical histories were collected on 92 participants (N = 69 males) who were first ascertained as children in the mid-1980s, 11 of whom were deceased at the time of follow-up. Questionnaires queried medical symptoms, disorders, hospitalizations, surgeries, and medication use. Median age at follow-up was 36 years (range: 23.5–50.5 years), and intellectual disability co-occurred in 62%. The most common medical conditions were seizures, obesity, insomnia, and constipation. The median number of medical conditions per person was 11. Increased medical comorbidity was associated with female gender (p = 0.01) and obesity (p = 0.03), but not intellectual disability (p = 0.79). Adults in this cohort of autism spectrum disorder first ascertained in the 1980s experience a high number of chronic medical conditions, regardless of intellectual ability. Understanding of these conditions commonly experienced should direct community-based and medical primary care for this population.