bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Septal defects
Authors: Thorne Sara , Bowater Sarah
Published: August 2017

This chapter explores atrial septal defects (ASDs), including ostium secundum ASD, ostium primum ASD, sinus venosus ASD, coronary sinus defect, and patent foramen ovale. Ventricular septal defects (VSDs) are also discussed, including definition and incidence, cardiac associations, presentation, physical signs, investigation, and management. A further section explores atrioventricular septal defects (AVSDs), including associations, incidence and recurrence, clinical presentation, investigation, surgical management, and late complications after repair AVSD repair.
Venous anomalies
Authors: Thorne Sara , Bowater Sarah
Published: August 2017

This chapster discusses anomalies of systemic venous drainage and anomalies of pulmonary venous drainage. It discusses superior vena cava (SVC) anomalies, inferior vena cava (IVC), total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage (TAPVD), partial anomalous pulmonary venous drainage (PAPVD), and scimitar syndrome.
Device therapy in ACHD
Authors: Thorne Sara , Bowater Sarah
Published: August 2017

This chapter discusses device therapy in ACHD. Insertion of devices in these patients requires special consideration. Knowledge of underlying anatomy, previous surgical procedures, and vascular access routes; an understanding of problems likely to be encountered with lead placement in complex hearts; and obtaining a stable position are all crucial. This chapter discusses bradycardia pacing, implantable cardiac defibrillators (ICD), cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT), and technical considerations for device therapy in ACHD.
Transition and transfer of care
Authors: Thorne Sara , Bowater Sarah
Published: August 2017

With the success of paediatric cardiac surgery and intervention over the last 30 years, more children are now surviving into adulthood, particularly those with complex congenital heart defects. Transition describes the process of addressing the specific needs of adolescents and young adults as they move from paediatric-based towards adult-based care. The end point is the transfer to adult health care services.
Patent ductus arteriosus
Authors: Katritsis Demosthenes G. , Gersh Bernard J. , Camm A. John
Published: August 2017

Diagnosis and management of patent ductus arteriosus are discussed. Indications of closure and the recommendations of ACC/AHA and ESC are presented.
Tetralogy of Fallot
Authors: Katritsis Demosthenes G. , Gersh Bernard J. , Camm A. John
Published: August 2017

Tetralogy of Fallot is presented, and clinical problems of adults with repaired tetralogy are discussed.
Transposition of great arteries
Authors: Katritsis Demosthenes G. , Gersh Bernard J. , Camm A. John
Published: August 2017

Transposition of great arteries, complete (d-TGA) and congenitally corrected (l-TGA) are discussed. Emphasis is given to problems encountered by adult patients.
General principles
Authors: Katritsis Demosthenes G. , Gersh Bernard J. , Camm A. John
Published: August 2017

General comments on cardiac auscultation, indications of coronary angiography, endocarditis prophylaxis, and risks of pregnancy in patients with valve disease are presented.
Mitral regurgitation
Authors: Katritsis Demosthenes G. , Gersh Bernard J. , Camm A. John
Published: August 2017

Acute and chronic mitral regurgitation and mitral valve prolapse are discussed. Indications for intervention based on the recommendations of ACC/AHA and ESC are summarized and tabulated.
Aortic stenosis
Authors: Katritsis Demosthenes G. , Gersh Bernard J. , Camm A. John
Published: August 2017

Diagnosis and risk stratification of patients with aortic stenosis are presented. Indications for surgical therapy and percutaneous valve implantation based on the recommendations of ACC/AHA and ESC are summarized and tabulated.
Secondary hypertension
Authors: Katritsis Demosthenes G. , Gersh Bernard J. , Camm A. John
Published: August 2017

The causes of secondary hypertension and their therapy are discussed. Considered conditions are secondary hypertension, renovascular hypertension, renal parenchymal disease, primary aldosteronism, phaeochromocytoma, adrenal incidentaloma, and other causes of secondary hypertension.
Epidemiology and pathophysiology of coronary artery disease
Authors: Katritsis Demosthenes G. , Gersh Bernard J. , Camm A. John
Published: August 2017

This chapter presents the epidemiology and pathophysiology of stable ischaemic heart disease and acute coronary syndromes, i.e. unstable angina/non-ST elevation myocardial infarction and ST elevation myocardial infarction.
Acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Katritsis Demosthenes G. , Gersh Bernard J. , Camm A. John
Published: August 2017

Diagnosis and current therapy of ST elevation myocardial infarction are presented. Recent recommendations by the ACC/AHA and the ESC on primary PCI and fibrinolysis have been summarized and tabulated.
Dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Katritsis Demosthenes G. , Gersh Bernard J. , Camm A. John
Published: August 2017

Epidemiology, aetiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and therapy of patients with dilated cardiomyopathy are discussed. Recommendations on the use of CRT and ICD therapy by the ACC/AHA and ESC are presented.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Katritsis Demosthenes G. , Gersh Bernard J. , Camm A. John
Published: August 2017

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is discussed in view of data on genetic background. Differential diagnosis and risk stratification, and recommendations on therapy by the ACC/AHA and ESC are presented.
Tachycardiomyopathy
Authors: Katritsis Demosthenes G. , Gersh Bernard J. , Camm A. John
Published: August 2017

Tachycardias that may result in cardiomyopathy are presented, and the management of patients with this condition is discussed.
Atrial tachycardias
Authors: Katritsis Demosthenes G. , Gersh Bernard J. , Camm A. John
Published: August 2017

Atrial and junctional premature beats, physiological, inappropriate and reentrant sinus tachycardias, focal, multifocal, and macro-reentrant atrial tachycardias (atrial flutters) are discussed.
Atrioventricular junctional tachycardias
Authors: Katritsis Demosthenes G. , Gersh Bernard J. , Camm A. John
Published: August 2017

Atrioventricular junctional tachycardias comprise atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia and non-reentrant junctional tachycardias, such as non-paroxysmal junctional tachycardia, focal junctional tachycardia, and non-reentrant atrioventricular nodal tachycardia. Mechanisms, differential diagnosis, and therapy are discussed.
Ventricular arrhythmias
Authors: Katritsis Demosthenes G. , Gersh Bernard J. , Camm A. John
Published: August 2017

Ventricular arrhythmias are classified, and their pathophysiology is presented. The differential diagnosis of wide QRS tachycardias is summarized. Risk stratification tests for patients with ventricular arrhythmias and acute and chronic management of these conditions are discussed. Ventricular arrhythmias are also discussed in the context of relevant clinical settings, and specific recommendations about management are provided. ACC/AHA and ESC guidelines that refer to ventricular arrhythmias and indications for ICD therapy have been tabulated.
Short QT syndrome
Authors: Katritsis Demosthenes G. , Gersh Bernard J. , Camm A. John
Published: August 2017

The short QT syndrome is defined, and recommendations for management of these patients are provided.
Atrioventricular and intraventricular block
Authors: Katritsis Demosthenes G. , Gersh Bernard J. , Camm A. John
Published: August 2017

Atrioventricular and intraventricular block and indications for permanent pacing are discussed. The ACC/AHA/HRS and ESC recommendations are presented.
Conduction disease in specific conditions
Authors: Katritsis Demosthenes G. , Gersh Bernard J. , Camm A. John
Published: August 2017

Conduction disease in specific clinical settings, such as recent myocardial infarction, congenital AV block, sleep apnoea, and cardiac transplantation, is discussed.
Sudden cardiac death
Authors: Katritsis Demosthenes G. , Gersh Bernard J. , Camm A. John
Published: August 2017

Epidemiology and aetiology of sudden cardiac death are discussed, and recommendations for diagnostic approach to survivors are presented.
Technical issues
Authors: Katritsis Demosthenes G. , Gersh Bernard J. , Camm A. John
Published: August 2017

Implantable devices, such as permanent pacemakers, implantable cardioverter defibrillators, and biventricular pacemakers, are discussed. This chapter presents the indications for selection of pacemaker mode and instructions for troubleshooting. Indications for permanent pacing or ICD therapy are covered in other relevant chapters, such as those on bradyarrhythmias, cardiac failure, and tachyarrhythmias.
Thoracic aortic aneurysms and other conditions
Authors: Katritsis Demosthenes G. , Gersh Bernard J. , Camm A. John
Published: August 2017

Thoracic aortic aneurysms, aortic atheroembolic disease, and other cardiovascular conditions associated with thoracic aortic disease are discussed.
Definitions and classification of pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Katritsis Demosthenes G. , Gersh Bernard J. , Camm A. John
Published: August 2017

The recent classification of pulmonary hypertension (Dana Point 2008) is presented.
Mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 and FoxO1 in the transcriptional control of lipolysis and de novo lipogenesis
Authors: Kandror Konstantin V.
Published: August 2017

Purpose of review

Postprandial suppression of lipolysis in adipose tissue and stimulation of de novo lipogenesis (DNL) in the liver by insulin are essential for the metabolic homeostasis in the mammalian organism. The mechanism of coregulation of lipolysis and DNL is not clear.

Recent findings

Insulin controls both lipolysis and DNL at the level of transcription via the same mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) and FoxO1-mediated signaling pathways.

mTORC1 suppresses lipolysis in adipose tissue and activates DNL in the liver, whereas FoxO1 has the opposite effect. Individual inputs of either mTORC1 or FoxO1 in the regulation of lipid metabolism may be difficult to evaluate because of the cross talk between these pathways.
Medical and policy considerations for nuclear and radiation accidents, incidents and terrorism
Authors: Gale Robert Peter
Published: August 2017

Purpose of review

The purpose of this review is to address the increasing medical and public concern regarding the health consequences of radiation exposure, a concern shaped not only by fear of another Chernobyl or Fukushima nuclear power facility accident but also by the intentional use of a nuclear weapon, a radiological dispersion device, a radiological exposure device, or an improved nuclear device by rogue states such as North Korea and terrorist organizations such as Al Qaeda and ISIS.

Recent findings

The United States has the medical capacity to respond to a limited nuclear or radiation accident or incident but an effective medical response to a catastrophic nuclear event is impossible. Dealing effectively with nuclear and radiation accidents or incidents requires diverse strategies, including policy decisions, public education, and medical preparedness.

I review medical consequences of exposures to ionizing radiations, likely concomitant injuries and potential medical intervention. These data should help haematologists and other healthcare professionals understand the principles of medical consequences of nuclear terrorism. However, the best strategy is prevention.
Laboratory methods for identification of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Aghamali Mina , Rahbar Mohammad , Samadi Kafil Hossein , Esmailkhani Aylin , Zahedi bialvaei Abed
Published: August 2017

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has been emerged with significant morbidity and mortality in the worldwide. A variety of methods have been implemented to optimize MRSA detection, but yet, the optimal approach remains controversial. In the current review, we summarize both phenotypic and genotypic laboratory methods for detection of MRSA isolates. In summary, phenotypic methods are time-consuming and labor-intensive and suffer from inadequate sensitivity and specificity. Moreover, these methods are clearly affected by test conditions. Genotypic methods are advantageous for high sensitivity, specificity and remarkably reduced turnaround time. However, although different PCR-based methods, including Hyplex Staphyloresist PCR, GenomEra MRSA/SA, GenoType MRSA Direct, Genoquick MRSA, MD GeneOhm MRSA, BD Max MRSA, BD GeneOhm MRSA Achromopepticase, Auto-MRSA, Cepheid Xpert, LightCycler MRSA Advanced, have been utilized for MRSA detection, limitations related to false-positive results have been reported. In addition, PCR methods are associated with greater expenses. So, if laboratories are not able to afford molecular methods for routine use, simultaneous application of two phenotypic methods, one with high sensitivity and the other with high specificity, is a useful alternative. Also, it is more reasonable to choose MRSA screening method with regard to prevalence and local epidemiology of MRSA strain.
Project SITUP
Authors: O'Malley Mary Beth , Trotta Rebecca L. , Rohrbach Jeffrey , Ahya Vivek , Bradway Christine
Published: August 2017

The purpose of this quality improvement initiative was to improve oropharyngeal dysphagia screening and reduce aspiration pneumonia rates on 3 inpatient hospital medical units. Guided by a Plan-Do-Study-Act methodology, an interdisciplinary health team developed and implemented a systematic process for oropharyngeal dysphagia screening and management. As a result, use of the screening protocol increased, timely initiation of speech language pathology consultations increased, and aspiration pneumonia rates decreased.
Stages of Adoption Concern and Technology Acceptance in a Critical Care Nursing Unit
Authors: Berg Gina M. , LoCurto Jamie , Lippoldt Diana
Published: August 2017

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to examine the stages of concern (self, task, and impact) and usability (trust, perceived usefulness, and ease of use) shifts experienced by nurses adopting new technology.

BACKGROUND

Patient care processes in critical care units can be disrupted with the incorporation of information technology. New users of technology typically transition through stages of concern and experience shifts in acceptance during assimilation.

METHODS

Critical care nurses (N = 41) were surveyed twice: (1) pre, immediately after training, and (2) post, 3 months after implementation of technology.

RESULTS

From presurvey to postsurvey, self-concerns decreased 14%, whereas impact concerns increased 22%. Furthermore, there was a 30% increase in trust and a 17% increase in perceived usefulness, even with a 27% decrease in ease of use.

CONCLUSION

Adoption of new technology requires critical care nurses to adapt current practices, which may improve trust and perceived usefulness yet decrease perceptions of ease of use.
Scope of Practice Barriers for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses
Authors: Lofgren Maria A. , Berends Susan K. , Reyes Jimmy , Wycoff Carmen , Kinnetz Meghan , Frohling Ami , Baker Laura , Whitty Sue , Dirks Mary , O'Brien Mary
Published: August 2017

Collegial relationships, administrative champions, and persistence are key components to breaking down barriers to advanced practice RN (APRN) practice. This article addresses how Iowa APRNs in a state-sanctioned task force identified barriers for practicing at the top of their licensure in a full practice authority state including defending the right to control the scope of nursing practice in court.
Assessment of a Competency-Based Undergraduate Course on Genetics and Genomics
Authors: Kronk Rebecca , Colbert Alison , Lengetti Evelyn
Published: August 2017

In response to new demands in the nursing profession, an innovative undergraduate genetics course was designed based on the Essential Nursing Competencies and Curricula Guidelines for Genetics and Genomics. Reflective journaling and storytelling were used as major pedagogies, alongside more traditional approaches. Thematic content analysis of student reflections revealed transformational learning as the major theme emerging from genomic and genetic knowledge acquisition. Quantitative analyses of precourse/postcourse student self-assessments of competencies revealed significant findings.
Mitochondrial DNA is Released in Urine of SIRS Patients With Acute Kidney Injury and Correlates With Severity of Renal Dysfunction
Authors: Jansen Marcel P.B. , Pulskens Wilco P. , Butter Loes M. , Florquin Sandrine , Juffermans Nicole P. , Roelofs Joris J.T.H. , Leemans Jaklien C.
Published: August 2017

Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) is characterized by the activation of the innate immune system resulting in stimulation of inflammatory responses, coagulation, and platelet activation that may contribute to complication such as the development of acute kidney injury (AKI). AKI importantly worsens the outcome of SIRS, implying the existence of a detrimental cross talk via systemic messages. Mitochondria are a source of damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) and are thought to form a molecular link between tissue injury and stimulation of innate immunity. The role of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in the cross talk between the onset of SIRS and subsequent development of AKI is unknown. Hence, we performed a case control study in critically ill patients with SIRS diagnosed with or without AKI, in which we determined mtDNA levels in plasma and urine, and correlated these to markers of renal impairment, inflammation, coagulation, and platelet activation. In addition, we exposed mice, primary renal tubular epithelial cells (TECs), and platelets to mtDNA or purified mitochondrial ligands, and measured their response to elucidate underlying pathophysiological mechanisms. Our data reveal that increased systemic mtDNA levels in SIRS patients do not correlate with systemic inflammation and renal disease activity. Moreover, AKI does not have an additional effect on circulating mtDNA levels. In contrast, we found that urinary mtDNA levels correlate with an elevated albumin creatinine ratio (ACR) as well as with increased urinary markers of inflammation, coagulation, and platelet activation. Both renal TECs and platelets respond to mtDNA and mtDNA ligands, leading to increased expression of, respectively, inflammatory cytokines and P-selectin. Moreover, activation of platelets results in mtDNA release. Together, these data suggest that circulating mtDNA is probably not important in the detrimental cross talk between SIRS and AKI, whereas renal mtDNA accumulation may be related to intrarenal inflammation, coagulation processes, and renal dysfunction in the pathophysiology of SIRS.
The Atypical Chemokine Receptor ACKR2 is Protective Against Sepsis
Authors: Castanheira Fernanda V. e Silva , Borges Vanessa , Sônego Fabiane , Kanashiro Alexandre , Donate Paula B. , Melo Paulo H. , Pallas Kenneth , Russo Remo C. , Amaral Flávio A. , Teixeira Mauro M. , Ramalho Fernando S. , Cunha Thiago M. , Liew Foo Y. , Alves-Filho José C. , Graham Gerard J. , Cunha Fernando Q.
Published: August 2017

Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory response as a result of uncontrolled infections. Neutrophils are the first cells to reach the primary sites of infection, and chemokines play a key role in recruiting neutrophils. However, in sepsis chemokines could also contribute to neutrophil infiltration to vital organs leading to multiple organ failure. ACKR2 is an atypical chemokine receptor, which can remove and degrade inflammatory CC chemokines. The role of ACK2 in sepsis is unknown. Using a model of cecal ligation and puncture (CLP), we demonstrate here that ACKR2 deficient (−/−) mice exhibited a significant reduction in the survival rate compared with similarly treated wild-type (WT) mice. However, neutrophil migration to the peritoneal cavity and bacterial load were similar between WT and ACKR2−/− mice during CLP. In contrast, ACKR2−/− mice showed increased neutrophil infiltration and elevated CC chemokine levels in the lung, kidney, and heart compared with the WT mice. In addition, ACKR2−/− mice also showed more severe lesions in the lung and kidney than those in the WT mice. Consistent with these results, WT mice under nonsevere sepsis (90% survival) had higher expression of ACKR2 in these organs than mice under severe sepsis (no survival). Finally, the lungs from septic patients showed increased number of ACKR2+ cells compared with those of nonseptic patients. Our data indicate that ACKR2 may have a protective role during sepsis, and the absence of ACKR2 leads to exacerbated chemokine accumulation, neutrophil infiltration, and damage to vital organs.
Short- and Long-term Outcomes of De Novo Liver Transplant Patients Treated With Once-Daily Prolonged-Release Tacrolimus
Authors: Okumura Yuichiro , Noda Takehiro , Eguchi Hidetoshi , Iwagami Yoshifumi , Yamada Daisaku , Asaoka Tadafumi , Wada Hiroshi , Kawamoto Koichi , Gotoh Kunihito , Takeda Yutaka , Tanemura Masahiro , Marubashi Shigeru , Umeshita Koji , Doki Yuichiro , Mori Masaki
Published: August 2017

Background

Tacrolimus is the key immunosuppressive drug for liver transplantation. Once-daily prolonged-release tacrolimus (TAC-PR) exhibits good drug adherence but has difficulty controlling the trough level in the early phase of liver transplantation. The aim of this study was to compare the feasibility and efficacy of immediately starting oral TAC-PR versus traditional twice-daily tacrolimus (TAC-BID) in de novo liver transplantation recipients.

Methods

The study included 28 patients treated with conventional TAC-BID and 60 patients treated with TAC-PR (median follow-up 70.5 months). Short-term and long-term outcomes were compared.

Results

Patient characteristics were similar except for the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma and type of graft. Dose adjustment was more frequently required for TAC-PR than TAC-BID (73.3% vs 42.9%, P = 0.006), but trough levels of TAC during the first 3 months after liver transplantation were controlled well in both groups. The rate of acute cellular rejection and long-term renal function were similar in both groups. In both groups, renal function worsened during the first 6 months after transplantation and remained stable until the end of the follow-up period. The 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year survival rates were 96.4%, 85.7%, and 85.7% for TAC-BID and 96.7%, 94.8%, and 94.8% for TAC-PR, respectively. The overall survival curve for TAC-PR was not inferior to that of TAC-BID.

Conclusions

The TAC-PR protocol was feasible and effective with strict adjustment.
The leading-edge vortex of swift wing-shaped delta wings
Authors: Muir Rowan Eveline , Arredondo-Galeana Abel , Viola Ignazio Maria
Published: August 2017

Recent investigations on the aerodynamics of natural fliers have illuminated the significance of the leading-edge vortex (LEV) for lift generation in a variety of flight conditions. A well-documented example of an LEV is that generated by aircraft with highly swept, delta-shaped wings. While the wing aerodynamics of a manoeuvring aircraft, a bird gliding and a bird in flapping flight vary significantly, it is believed that this existing knowledge can serve to add understanding to the complex aerodynamics of natural fliers. In this investigation, a model non-slender delta-shaped wing with a sharp leading edge is tested at low Reynolds number, along with a delta wing of the same design, but with a modified trailing edge inspired by the wing of a common swiftApus apus. The effect of the tapering swift wing on LEV development and stability is compared with the flow structure over the unmodified delta wing model through particle image velocimetry. For the first time, a leading-edge vortex system consisting of a dual or triple LEV is recorded on a swift wing-shaped delta wing, where such a system is found across all tested conditions. It is shown that the spanwise location of LEV breakdown is governed by the local chord rather than Reynolds number or angle of attack. These findings suggest that the trailing-edge geometry of the swift wing alone does not prevent the common swift from generating an LEV system comparable with that of a delta-shaped wing.
Ventromedial prefrontal cortex compression during concept learning
Authors: Mack Michael L. , Preston Alison R. , Love Bradley C.
Published: August 2017

Prefrontal cortex (PFC) is thought to support the ability to focus on goal-relevant information by filtering out irrelevant information, a process akin to dimensionality reduction. Here, we test this dimensionality reduction hypothesis by combining a data-driven approach to characterizing the complexity of neural representation with a theoretically-supported computational model of learning. We find strong evidence of goal-directed dimensionality reduction within human ventromedial PFC during learning. Importantly, by using model predictions of each participant’s attentional strategies during learning, we find that that the degree of neural compression predicts an individual’s ability to selectively attend to concept-specific information. These findings suggest a domain-general mechanism of learning through compression in ventromedial PFC.
Neural dynamics of variable grasp movement preparation in the macaque fronto-parietal network
Authors: Michaels Jonathan A , Dann Benjamin , Intveld Rijk W , Scherberger Hansjörg
Published: August 2017

Our voluntary grasping actions lie on a continuum between immediate action and waiting for the right moment, depending on the context. Therefore, studying grasping requires investigating how preparation time affects this process. Two macaque monkeys (Macaca mulatta) performed a grasping task with a short instruction followed by an immediate or delayed go cue (0-1300 ms) while we recorded in parallel from neurons in the hand area (F5) of the ventral premotor cortex and the anterior intraparietal area (AIP). Initial population dynamics followed a fixed trajectory in the neural state space unique to each grip type, reflecting unavoidable preparation, then diverged depending on the delay. Although similar types of single unit responses were present in both areas, population activity in AIP stabilized within a unique memory state while F5 activity continued to evolve, tracking subjective anticipation of the go cue. Intriguingly, activity during movement initiation clustered into two trajectory clusters, corresponding to movements that were either ‘as fast as possible’ or withheld movements, demonstrating a widespread state shift in the fronto-parietal grasping network when movements must be withheld. Our results reveal how dissociation between static and dynamic components of movement preparation as well as differentiation between cortical areas is possible through population level analysis.

Significance Statement

Many of our movements must occur with no warning, while others we can prepare in advance. Yet, it’s unclear how planning for movements along the spectrum between these two situations differs in the brain. Two macaque monkeys made reach to grasp movements after varying amounts of preparation time while we recorded from premotor and parietal cortex. We found that the initial response to a grasp instruction was specific to the required movement, but not the preparation time, reflecting required processing. However, when more preparation time was given, neural activity achieved unique states that likely related to withholding movements and anticipation of movement, which was more prevalent in premotor cortex, suggesting differing roles of premotor and parietal cortex in grasp planning.
Higher genetic risk for schizophrenia is associated with living in urban and populated areas
Authors: Colodro-Conde Lucia , Couvy-Duchesne Baptiste , Whitfield John B. , Streit Fabian , Gordon Scott , Rietschel Marcella , McGrath John , Medland Sarah E. , Martin Nicholas G.
Published: August 2017

Social stress in urban life has been proposed as an environmental risk factor associated with the increased prevalence of schizophrenia in urban compared to rural areas. However, the potential genetic contributions to this relationship have been largely ignored.

Using a community-based sample of 15,544 adults living in Australia, we found higher genetic loading for schizophrenia in participants living in more densely populated (p-value=5.69*10-5) or less remote areas (p-value=0.003). Mendelian Randomization suggested that high schizophrenia genetic risk is a causal factor in chosing to live in denser (p-value=0.046) and less remote areas (p-value=0.044).

Our results support the hypothesis of selective migration to more urban environments by people at higher genetic risk for schizophrenia and suggest a need to refine the social stress model for schizophrenia by including genetic influences on where people choose to live.
A Large-Scale Binding and Functional Map of Human RNA Binding Proteins
Authors: Van Nostrand Eric L , Freese Peter , Pratt Gabriel A , Wang Xiaofeng , Wei Xintao , Xiao Rui , Blue Steven M , Chen Jia-Yu , Cody Neal A.L. , Dominguez Daniel , Olson Sara , Sundararaman Balaji , Zhan Lijun , Bazile Cassandra , Bouvrette Louis Philip Benoit , Bergalet Julie , Duff Michael O , Garcia Keri E. , Gelboin-Burkhart Chelsea , Hochman Myles , Lambert Nicole J , Li Hairi , Nguyen Thai B , Palden Tsultrim , Rabano Ines , Sathe Shashank , Stanton Rebecca , Su Amanda , Wang Ruth , Yee Brian A. , Zhou Bing , Louie Ashley L , Aigner Stefan , Fu Xiang-dong , Lécuyer Eric , Burge Christopher B. , Graveley Brenton R. , Yeo Gene W.
Published: August 2017

Genomes encompass all the information necessary to specify the development and function of an organism. In addition to genes, genomes also contain a myriad of functional elements that control various steps in gene expression. A major class of these elements function only when transcribed into RNA as they serve as the binding sites for RNA binding proteins (RBPs), which act to control post-transcriptional processes including splicing, cleavage and polyadenylation, RNA editing, RNA localization, stability, and translation. Despite the importance of these functional RNA elements encoded in the genome, they have been much less studied than genes and DNA elements. Here, we describe the mapping and characterization of RNA elements recognized by a large collection of human RBPs in K562 and HepG2 cells. These data expand the catalog of functional elements encoded in the human genome by addition of a large set of elements that function at the RNA level through interaction with RBPs.

Highlights

223 eCLIP datasets for 150 RBPs reveal a wide variety ofin vivoRNA target classes.

472 knockdown/RNA-seq profiles of 263 RBPs reveal factor-responsive targets and integration with eCLIP indicates RNA expression and splicing regulatory patterns.

78 RNA Bind-N-Seq profiles ofin vitrobinding motifs reveal links betweenin vitroandin vivobinding and indicate that eCLIP peaks that containin vitromotifs are more strongly associated with regulation.

274 maps of RBP subcellular localization by immunofluorescence indicate widespread organelle-specific RNA processing regulation.

63 ChIP-seq profiles of DNA association suggest broad interconnectivity between chromatin association and RNA processing.
Draft Genome Sequence ofModestobactersp. strain VKM Ac-2676 from soil in the area of sharply continental climate
Authors: Vasilenko Oleg V. , Tarlachkov Sergey V. , Starodumova Irina P. , Ariskina Elena V. , Ariskina Kseniya I. , Avtukh Alexander N. , Lysak Lyudmila V. , Telkov Miroslav V. , Evtushenko Lyudmila I.
Published: August 2017

A draft genome sequence of a novel actinobacterium,Modestobactersp. strain VKM Ac-2676, was derived using Ion Torrent sequencing technology. The genome size is 3.88 Mb with average G+C content of 73.40%. The genes encoding properties relevant to adaptability of this bacterium to a sharply continental climate zone were revealed.
Addiction beyond pharmacological effects: the role of environment complexity and bounded rationality
Authors: Ognibene Dimitri , Fiore Vincenzo G. , Gu Xiaosi
Published: August 2017

Several decision-making vulnerabilities have been identified as underlying causes for addictive behaviours, or the repeated execution of stereotyped actions despite their adverse consequences. These vulnerabilities are mostly associated with brain alterations caused by the consumption of substances of abuse. However, addiction can also happen in the absence of a pharmacological component, such as seen in pathological gambling and videogaming. We use a new reinforcement learning model to highlight a previously neglected vulnerability that we suggest interacts with those already identified, whilst playing a prominent role in non-pharmacological forms of addiction. Specifically, we show that a duallearning system (i.e. combining model-based and model-free) can be vulnerable to highly rewarding, but suboptimal actions, that are followed by a complex ramification of stochastic adverse effects. This phenomenon is caused by the overload of the capabilities of an agent, as time and cognitive resources required for exploration, deliberation, situation recognition, and habit formation, all increase as a function of the depth and richness of detail of an environment. Furthermore, the cognitive overload can be aggravated due to alterations (e.g. caused by stress) in the bounded rationality, i.e. the limited amount of resources available for the model-based component, in turn increasing the agent’s chances to develop or maintain addictive behaviours. Our study demonstrates that, independent of drug consumption, addictive behaviours can arise in the interaction between the environmental complexity and the biologically finite resources available to explore and represent it.
Ultra-fast super-resolution imaging of biomolecular mobility in tissues
Authors: Miller Helen , Cosgrove Jason , Wollman Adam J. M. , Toole Peter O’ J. , Coles Mark C. , Leake Mark C.
Published: August 2017

Super-resolution techniques have addressed many biological questions, yet molecular quantification at rapid timescales in live tissues remains challenging. We developed a light microscopy system capable of sub-millisecond sampling to characterize molecular diffusion in heterogeneous aqueous environments comparable to interstitial regions between cells in tissues. We demonstrate our technique with super-resolution tracking of fluorescently labelled chemokine molecules in a collagen matrix andex vivolymph node tissue sections, outperforming competing methods.
Non-contact measurement of emotional and physiological changes in heart rate from a webcam
Authors: Madan Christopher R. , Harrison Tyler , Mathewson Kyle E.
Published: August 2017

Heart rate, measured in beats per minute (BPM), can be used as an index of an individual’s physiological state. Each time the heart beats, blood is expelled and travels through the body. This blood flow can be detected in the face using a standard webcam that is able to pick up subtle changes in color that cannot be seen by the naked eye. Due to the light absorption spectrum of blood, we are able to detect differences in the amount of light absorbed by the blood traveling just below the skin (i.e., photoplethysmography). By modulating emotional and physiological stress—i.e., viewing arousing images and sitting vs. standing, respectively—to elicit changes in heart rate, we explored the feasibility of using a webcam as a psychophysiological measurement of autonomic activity. We found a high level of agreement between established physiological measures, electrocardiogram (ECG), and blood pulse oximetry, and heart rate estimates obtained from the webcam. We thus suggest webcams can be used as a non-invasive and readily available method for measuring psychophysiological changes, easily integrated into existing stimulus presentation software and hardware setups.
Rethinking mortality rates in men and women: do men age faster?
Authors: Lenart Peter , Kuruczova Daniela , Joshi Peter K. , Bienertová-Vašků Julie
Published: August 2017

Women on average live longer than men, which seems to suggest that women also age slower than men. However, the potential difference in the pace of aging between the sexes is a relatively controversial topic, and both positions, i.e. “men age faster” and “men and women age at the same pace”, have found some support. We therefore employ parametric models previously established in model organisms as well as two nonparametric approaches to compare the pace of aging between the sexes using freely available mortality data from 13 developed countries. Our results support the hypothesis that men age faster than women while also suggesting that the difference is small and that from a practical standpoint male mortality rates behave similarly to the mortality rates of women approximately eight years their senior.
Neotrygon indicasp. nov., the Indian-Ocean blue spotted maskray (Myliobatoidei, Dasyatidae)
Authors: Pavan-Kumar Annam , Kumar Rajan , Pitale Pranali , Shen Kang-Ning , Borsa Philippe
Published: August 2017

The blue-spotted maskray, previously Nkuhlii, consists of up to eleven lineages representing separate species. Nine of these species (Naustraliae, N. bobwardi, N. caeruleopunctata, N. malaccensis, Nmoluccensis, Norientale, N. vali, Nvaridens, Nwestpapuensis)have already been formally described and two (Indian-Ocean maskray and Ryukyu maskray) remain undescribed. Here the Indian-Ocean maskray is described as a new species,Neotrygon indicasp. nov.
The use of hyperimmune chicken reference sera is not appropriate for the validation of influenza pseudotype neutralization assays
Authors: Ferrara Francesca , Molesti Eleonora , Scott Simon , Cattoli Giovanni , Temperton Nigel
Published: August 2017

Pseudotype particle neutralization (pp-NT) is a next-generation serological assay employed for the sensitive study of influenza antibody responses, especially haemagglutinin stalk-directed antibodies. However, to date a validation of this assay has not been performed, and this limits its use to primarily research laboratories. To identify possible serological standards to be used in optimization and validation of the pp-NT, we have evaluated the cross-reactivity of hyperimmune chicken reference antisera in this assay. Our findings show that the cross-reactivity detected by the pp-NT assay is only in part explained by phylogenetic relationships and protein homology between the HA subtypes analysed; further studies are necessary to understand the origin of the cross-reactivity detected, and reference standards with higher specificity should be evaluated or generatedde novofor future use in pp-NT.
A capillary specimen aberration for describing X-ray powder diffraction line profiles for convergent, divergent and parallel beam geometries
Authors: Coelho Alan A. , Rowles Matthew R.
Published: August 2017

X-ray powder diffraction patterns of cylindrical capillary specimens have substantially different peak positions, shapes and intensities relative to patterns from flat specimens. These aberrations vary in a complex manner with diffraction angle and instrument geometry. This paper describes a fast numerical procedure that accurately describes the capillary aberration in the equatorial plane for convergent focusing, divergent and parallel beam instrument geometries. Axial divergence effects are ignored and only a cross section of the capillary, a disc, is considered; it is assumed that axial divergence effects can be described using an additional correction that is independent of the disc correction. Significantly, the present implementation uses theTOPAS-Academicaberration approximation technique of averaging nearby aberrations in 2θ space to approximate in-between aberrations, which results in no more than ∼30 disc aberrations calculated over the entire 2θ range, even when the diffraction pattern comprises thousands of peaks. Finally, the disc aberration is convoluted with the emission profile and other instrument and specimen aberrations in a Rietveld refinement sense, allowing for refinement on the specimen's absorption coefficient and capillary diameter, as well as the instrument focal length. Large differences between refined and expected values give insight into instrument alignment.
An indexing algorithm independent of peak position extraction for X-ray powder diffraction patterns
Authors: Coelho Alan A.
Published: August 2017

Lattice parameter determination from X-ray powder diffraction patterns, called indexing, invariably requires the extraction of peak positions which are then used by indexing algorithms that are peak position dependent. The success of these algorithms depends on the accuracy of the extracted peak positions. Peak positions that do not overlap significantly with nearby peaks can be readily determined with great accuracy. However, in heavily overlapped regions it is difficult to determine the number of peaks and even more difficult to determine the peak positions accurately. This paper describes a new indexing algorithm,Lp-Search, that is implemented in the computer programTOPAS Version 7(Bruker AXS, Karlsruhe, Germany).Lp-Searchdoes not require peak position extraction nor does it require knowledge of the number of peaks present.Lp-Searchcombines Monte Carlo searches of lattice parameter space with a Pawley refinement used at the end of each search. Critical to the success of the Monte Carlo search is a new figure of merit function which allows the parameter space to be searched efficiently.Lp-Searchhas proved to be effective for patterns with heavily overlapped peaks; monoclinic to cubic lattices are successfully indexed in a matter of seconds and triclinic lattices within a minute or two. Diffraction patterns spanning a limited range, such that 30–40 peaks of the highestdspacing peaks are omitted, can be successfully indexed; this demonstrates the robust nature ofLp-Search.
Physical, emotional, and social illness
Authors: Larsson Anna
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine ideas and notions in the founding and development of the area of mental health services in school in Sweden, with special focus on school psychology and school social work.

Design/methodology/approach

From a history of thought perspective, this paper investigates public Swedish school-related documents from the early 1900s up until the 1980s in order to reveal the influential ideas about school health care, children’s needs, and professionals’ responsibilities. These ideas are linked to the twentieth century development of the behavioural sciences, the school system, and the welfare state in Sweden.

Findings

Two main turning points are identified. The first occurred in the 1940s when psychologists and social workers were invited to become part of schools as experts on children’s mental health care, implying that mental health issues had become included in the school’s responsibility. The second turning point came in the 1970s when the tasks and the ideational context for the mental health experts changed dramatically. The first turning point challenged the dominant explanation model, a model that relied on scientific references to medicine, and eventually led to an acceptance of psychology instead as dominant provider of explanatory models. The second turning point affected the tension between child and system, and implied a subordination of the needs of the system for the benefit of the needs of the child.

Originality/value

This paper highlights how views on children’s needs and on the responsibilities of school and its professionals have been constructed and conceptualised differently over time and how those views are connected to changes in science, school, and society.
Historicizing health and education
Authors: Milewski Patrice
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the historical roots of the modern relationship between health and education. The author draws on the work of Michel Foucault and Georges Canguilhem to make the case that the transformation of medical knowledge in the early nineteenth century created new ways knowing that was the foundation of a modern relationship between health and education.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the archives of ophthalmology, the author demonstrates how new medical knowledge and scientific methods were the basis of investigations of the eyesight of school children in the early nineteenth century. These investigations reflected the nineteenth century scientific ethos that placed a premium on techniques such as counting, measuring, statistical reasoning, and empirical observation to form the grounds of legitimacy of an autonomous “objective” knowledge. The modern relationship between health and education was an instance of a generalized medico-scientific interest in the health of populations that utilized the methods of empirical positivist science whose speculative interest was aimed at defining the normal.

Findings

Scientific investigations of the eyesight of school children in the early nineteenth century contributed to the formation of an anatomo-politics of the body and a biopolitics of population through a “medical mathematics” that defined a relation between eyesight, health and education.

Originality/value

This study illustrates how sources such as the archives of ophthalmology can broaden and deepen our understanding of the relation between health and education.
Sustaining performance under operational turbulence
Authors: Birkie Seyoum Eshetu , Trucco Paolo , Kaulio Matti
Published: August 2017

Purpose

Many studies have found that Lean practices provide better performance in a stable business environment. However, there is limited information on how Lean practices influence performance gains (defined in this paper as improvement and sustenance of performance) in an uncertain (complex and dynamic) environment. This study aims to investigate how the implementation of Lean helps to sustain performance in such context.

Design/methodology/approach

The study draws on an in-depth investigation of two capital goods manufacturing engineer-to-order (ETO) cases, in which performance sustenance is discussed in relation to the extent, locus and extensiveness of implemented Lean practice bundles.

Findings

Findings indicate that a higher extent of Lean practices’ implementation, covering both shop floor and transactional processes, increases the possibility of performance sustenance in ETO. Furthermore, a coherent approach in the pre-, during- and post-implementation phases of the Lean change process is required to foster performance sustenance. Lean practices in ETO are modified to suit context change from repetitive manufacturing.

Research limitations/implications

This study proposes performance sustenance as a performance measure in a highly uncertain context, such as ETO, as a single reference cannot effectively measure performance improvements over diverse orders. From this perspective, appropriate Lean implementation contributes towards building capabilities for flexibly and proactively managing uncertain circumstances.

Practical implication

Even companies operating in highly uncertain (complex and dynamic) contexts may benefit from significant performance gains, thanks to the Lean implementation. This can be achieved by a balanced implementation of practices at shop floor and transactional processes, and their mindful customisations.

Originality/value

The study compares Lean implementation in ETO with that of high-volume–low-variety systems established in the literature. It qualitatively discusses how Lean implementation as an overarching effort both in shop floor and transactional processes leads to better sustenance of achieved performance improvements in shop floor under high uncertainty.