bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the complexity of the labeled domination problem in graphs
Authors: Argiroffo Gabriela , Leoni Valeria , Torres Pablo
Published: April 2016

In 2008, a unified approach (labeled domination) to several domination problems (k‐tuple domination, ‐domination, and M‐domination, among others) was introduced. The labeled domination problem is to find an L‐dominating function of minimum weight in a graph. It is an NP‐complete problem even when restricted to split graphs and bipartite graphs. On the other hand, it is known to be polynomial‐time solvable for the class of strongly chordal graphs. In this paper, we state explicit formulas that relate the domination numbers considered. These relationships allow us to enlarge the family of graphs where the labeled domination problem is polynomial‐time solvable to the class of graphs having cliquewidth bounded by a constant.
Surrogate‐based methods for black‐box optimization
Authors: Vu Ky Khac , D'Ambrosio Claudia , Hamadi Youssef , Liberti Leo
Published: April 2016

In this paper, we survey methods that are currently used in black‐box optimization, that is, the kind of problems whose objective functions are very expensive to evaluate and no analytical or derivative information is available. We concentrate on a particular family of methods, in which surrogate (or meta) models are iteratively constructed and used to search for global solutions.
Sustainable Method for the Large‐Scale Preparation of Fe3O4 Nanocrystals
Authors: Lee SungWoo , Yoon Jae‐Sik , Kang Sungkyoung , Kwon Kihyun , Chang Ki Soo , Lee SangGap , Choi Sang‐Il , Jeong Jong‐Ryul , Lee Gaehang , Nam Ki Min
Published: April 2016

In this work, a facile synthetic process is reported for the large‐scale synthesis of Fe3O4 nanocrystals. Thermal decomposition of Fe(acac)3 (100 g) in 1‐hexadecanol produced Fe3O4 nanocrystals with well‐controlled sizes and morphologies. The nanocrystals were spherically shaped with average diameters of 7.8 ± 0.6, 6.5 ± 0.4, and 5.9 ± 0.2 nm when prepared at 300°C, 270°C, and 250°C, respectively. Mechanisms of crystal formation were elucidated on the basis of gas chromatography‐mass spectroscopy analysis, enabling the large‐scale preparation of Fe3O4 nanocrystals. To provide an environmentally benign route, Fe3O4 nanocrystals were prepared with recycled solvent which was recovered from the initial experiment. The resulting porous Fe3O4 nanocrystals had larger average sizes than those of the initial nanocrystals. Structural characterization was performed using transmission electron microscopy and powder X‐ray diffraction.
Influence of B‐Site Disorder on the Properties of Unpoled Bi1/2Na1/2TiO3‐0.06Ba(ZrxTi1‐x)O3 Piezoceramics
Authors: Glaum Julia , Zakhozheva Marina , Acosta Matias , Aksel Elena , Kleebe Hans‐Joachim , Hoffman Mark , Schmitt Ljubomira Ana
Published: April 2016

The influence of B‐site disorder on the dielectric, microstructural, and structural characteristics of unpoled, lead‐free (Bi1/2Na1/2)TiO3‐0.06Ba(ZrxTi1‐x)O3 piezoelectric ceramics with x = 0.02, 0.10, and 0.15 was investigated. The low and medium doping level introduced a stabilization of polar nanoregions reflected in the shift of the dispersive permittivity anomalies to higher temperatures and the development of lamellar rhombohedral domains embedded in the prevalent tetragonal nanodomain matrix. For higher Zr level, the regions of lamellar domains remain, but the dielectric characteristics indicate a reduction in the previous stabilization effect. This behavior is rationalized by a reduction in the correlation length due to the increasing amount of nonpolar sample volume with increasing Zr addition.
Mast Cells Play an Important Role in the Pathogenesis of Hyperglycemia‐Induced Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: UEMURA KENSHI , KONDO HIDEKAZU , ISHII YUMI , KOBUKATA MAMI , HARAGUCHI MIHO , IMAMURA TAKAAKI , OTSUBO TOYOKAZU , IKEBE‐EBATA YUKI , ABE ICHITARO , AYABE REIKA , SAITO SHOTARO , AOKI KOHEI , NAGANO‐TORIGOE YASUKO , AKIOKA HIDEFUMI , SHINOHARA TETSUJI , TESHIMA YASUSHI , MASAKI TAKAYUKI , YUFU KUNIO , NAKAGAWA MIKIKO , TAKAHASHI NAOHIKO
Published: April 2016

Roles of Mast Cells in Hyperglycemia‐Induced Atrial Remodeling

Background and Objectives

Recently, it was reported that mast cells (MCs) could underlie the mechanisms of several cardiovascular diseases. However, the role of MCs in diabetes‐induced atrial fibrillation (AF) has not been notably investigated. We tested the hypothesis that MC deficiency attenuates hyperglycemia‐induced AF in mice.

Methods and Results

Mast cell‐deficient W/Wv mice, and congenic +/+ littermates (WT) were divided into either the vehicle (VEH)‐injection group or the streptozotocin (STZ)‐injection group (MCKO‐VEH, MCKO‐STZ, WT‐VEH, and WT‐STZ groups). On day 28 of our studies, we observed that (1) STZ‐induced hyperglycemia increased MC infiltration in the left atrium (LA) in WT mice (P < 0.01), (2) atrium isolated from the WT‐STZ group showed inhomogeneous interstitial fibrosis, abundant infiltration of macrophages, and enhanced apoptosis compared to the WT‐VEH group (P < 0.01, P < 0.01, P < 0.05, respectively). However, the changes observed in the WT‐STZ group were significantly attenuated in the MCKO‐STZ mice. In addition, we observed that (3) messenger RNA levels of tumor necrosis factor‐α, monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1, interleukin‐1β, transforming growth factor‐β, and collagen‐1 in the LA were increased in the WT‐STZ group, but not in the MCKO‐STZ group, (4) STZ‐induced hyperglycemia increased AF induction and prolonged interatrial conduction time in the WT mice, which were not observed in the MCKO mice, and that (5) hyperglycemia‐enhanced atrial production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was equally observed in the WT and MCKO mice.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that MCs contribute to the pathogenesis of hyperglycemia‐induced AF via enhancement of inflammation and fibrosis.
Clinical Presentation and Outcome of Brugada Syndrome Diagnosed With the New 2013 Criteria
Authors: CURCIO ANTONIO , MAZZANTI ANDREA , BLOISE RAFFAELLA , MONTEFORTE NICOLA , INDOLFI CIRO , PRIORI SILVIA G. , NAPOLITANO CARLO
Published: April 2016

Brugada Syndrome in Modified Precordial Leads

Introduction

The 2013 HRS/EHRA/APHRS consensus statement recommends the use of V1 and V2 leads recorded in the second and third intercostal spaces (High‐ICS) for diagnosis of Brugada syndrome (BrS) creating a new category of patients discovered only with modified leads. The clinical presentation and the arrhythmic risk in these patients are ill defined. This study was aimed at assessing the role of High‐ICS in the analysis of BrS and the clinical profile of the patients diagnosed only when ECG leads are moved to upper intercostal spaces.

Methods and Results

We searched our Brugada syndrome registry and identified 300 subjects (age 36 ± 13 years), without a diagnostic coved ST‐segment elevation in conventional V1–V3 leads, both at baseline and after provocative drug challenge. Sixty‐four subjects (21.3%, mean age at last follow‐up 42 ± 11 years) were diagnosed with High‐ICS. Diagnosis was possible at baseline only in 4 subjects while in 60 it was made after drug challenge with sodium channel blockers. Three subjects (4.7%) with spontaneous abnormal ECG experienced cardiac events with an annual event rate (0.11%) superimposable to that of the low risk category of BrS diagnosed in standard leads.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that the use of new diagnostic criteria for BrS allows increasing the diagnostic yield by 20% and that the arrhythmic risk is low when BrS can be established only in High‐ICS. We also show that the prognostic value of spontaneous ECG pattern is confirmed in this subgroup.
The Impact of White‐Coat Hypertension on Cardiac Mechanics
Authors: Tadic Marijana , Cuspidi Cesare , Ivanovic Branislava , Vukomanovic Vladan , Djelic Marina , Celic Vera , Kocijancic Vesna
Published: April 2016

The authors aimed to investigate right ventricular (RV) and left ventricular (LV) remodeling in patients with white‐coat hypertension (WCH) and sustained arterial hypertension. This cross‐sectional study included 153 untreated patients who underwent 24‐hour ambulatory blood pressure (BP) monitoring and complete two‐dimensional echocardiographic (2DE) examination. Results showed that LV and RV longitudinal mechanics gradually deteriorated from controls to patients with sustained hypertension. Endocardial RV longitudinal strain was lower in WCH and hypertensive patients than in controls. Midmyocardial RV longitudinal strain was decreased in hypertensive patients compared with the other two groups, whereas subepicardial RV longitudinal strain was similar between the observed groups. Twenty‐four–hour systolic BP was associated with 2DE global longitudinal LV and subendocardial RV strain. This study demonstrates that myocardial deformation of both ventricles is significantly impaired in patients with WCH and sustained arterial hypertension, and 24‐hour systolic BP is associated with LV and RV deformation independent of cardiac structure.
Renoprotective effect of berberine via regulating the PGE2‐EP1‐Gαq‐Ca2+ signalling pathway in glomerular mesangial cells of diabetic rats
Authors: Ni Wei‐Jian , Tang Li‐Qin , Zhou Hong , Ding Hai‐Hua , Qiu Yuan‐Ye
Published: April 2016

G‐protein coupled receptor‐mediated pathogenesis is of great importance in the development of diabetic complications, but the detailed mechanisms have not yet been clarified. Therefore, we aimed to explore the roles of the prostaglandin E2 receptor 1 (EP1)‐mediated signalling pathway and develop a corresponding treatment for diabetic nephropathy (DN). To create the DN model, rats fed a high‐fat and high‐glucose diet were injected with a single dose of streptozotocin (35 mg/kg, i.p.). Then, rats were either treated or not with berberine (100 mg/kg per day, i.g., 8 weeks). Cells were isolated from the renal cortex and cultured in high‐sugar medium with 20% foetal bovine serum. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) levels were determined by ELISA, and cells were identified by fluorescence immunoassay. We measured the biochemical characteristics and observed morphological changes by periodic‐acid‐Schiff staining. The expression of the EP1 receptor and the roles of GRK2 and β‐arrestin2 were identified using western blotting and flow cytometry. Downstream proteins were detected by western blot, while molecular changes were assessed by ELISA and laser confocal scanning microscopy. Berberine not only improved the majority of biochemical and renal functional parameters but also improved the histopathological alterations. A significant increase in PGE2 level, EP1 membrane expression and Gαq expression, and concentration of Ca2+ were observed, accompanied by increased GRK2 and β‐arrestin2 levels soon afterwards. Berberine decreased the abnormal concentration of Ca2+, the increased levels of PGE2, the high expression of EP1 and Gαq and suppressed the proliferation of mesangial cells. The EP1 receptor, a critical therapeutic target of the signalling pathway, contributed to mesangial cell abnormalities, which are linked to renal injury in DN. The observed renoprotective effects of berberine via regulating the PGE2‐EP1‐Gαq‐Ca2+ signalling pathway indicating that berberine could be a promising anti‐DN medicine in the future.
hiPSC‐derived iMSCs: NextGen MSCs as an advanced therapeutically active cell resource for regenerative medicine
Authors: Sabapathy Vikram , Kumar Sanjay
Published: April 2016

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are being assessed for ameliorating the severity of graft‐versus‐host disease, autoimmune conditions, musculoskeletal injuries and cardiovascular diseases. While most of these clinical therapeutic applications require substantial cell quantities, the number of MSCs that can be obtained initially from a single donor remains limited. The utility of MSCs derived from human‐induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) has been shown in recent pre‐clinical studies. Since adult MSCs have limited capability regarding proliferation, the quantum of bioactive factor secretion and immunomodulation ability may be constrained. Hence, the alternate source of MSCs is being considered to replace the commonly used adult tissue‐derived MSCs. The MSCs have been obtained from various adult and foetal tissues. The hiPSC‐derived MSCs (iMSCs) are transpiring as an attractive source of MSCs because during reprogramming process, cells undergo rejuvination, exhibiting better cellular vitality such as survival, proliferation and differentiations potentials. The autologous iMSCs could be considered as an inexhaustible source of MSCs that could be used to meet the unmet clinical needs. Human‐induced PSC‐derived MSCs are reported to be superior when compared to the adult MSCs regarding cell proliferation, immunomodulation, cytokines profiles, microenvironment modulating exosomes and bioactive paracrine factors secretion. Strategies such as derivation and propagation of iMSCs in chemically defined culture conditions and use of footprint‐free safer reprogramming strategies have contributed towards the development of clinically relevant cell types. In this review, the role of iPSC‐derived mesenchymal stromal cells (iMSCs) as an alternate source of therapeutically active MSCs has been described. Additionally, we also describe the role of iMSCs in regenerative medical applications, the necessary strategies, and the regulatory policies that have to be enforced to render iMSC's effectiveness in translational medicine.
Loose Ties or Strong Bonds? The Effect of a Commissioner's Nationality and Partisanship on Voting in the Council
Authors: Killermann Kira
Published: April 2016

This article studies the consequences of the increased appointment of political Commissioners for the legislative process. Based on the principal–agent relation between the Council and the Commission, it is hypothesized that governments sharing national and partisan ties with the Commissioner responsible for a legislative proposal are less likely to cast a negative vote. Analysing 687 contested legislative proposals voted upon between 1999 and 2014, it is found that a Member State is indeed less likely to vote against a proposal by the Commissioner from that Member State. Likewise, if the responsible Commissioner is a member of the same European Party Group as at least one of the governing parties, contestation is less likely. European Commissioners seem to use the discretion the EU's legislative system grants them to promote the preferences of their home country and also – to a lesser extent – their party family.
Trends in Prevalence and Determinants of Potentially Inappropriate Prescribing in the United States: 2007 to 2012
Authors: Jirón Marcela , Pate Virginia , Hanson Laura C. , Lund Jennifer L. , Jonsson Funk Michele , Stürmer Til
Published: April 2016

Objectives

To estimate the prevalence and determinants of the use of potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) in older U.S. adults using the 2012 Beers criteria.

Design

Retrospective cohort study in a random national sample of Medicare beneficiaries.

Setting

Fee‐for‐service Medicare beneficiaries from 2007 to 2012.

Participants

U.S. population aged 65 and older with Parts A, B, and D enrollment in at least 1 month during a calendar year (N = 38,250 individuals; 1,308,116 observations).

Measurements

The 2012 Beers criteria were used to estimate the prevalence of the use of PIMs in each calendar month and over a 12‐month period using data on diagnoses or conditions present in the previous 12 months. Generalized estimating equations were used to account for the dependence of multiple monthly observations of a single person when estimating 95% confidence intervals (CIs), and logistic regression was used to identify independent determinants of PIM use.

Results

The point prevalence of the use of PIMs decreased from 37.6% (95% CI = 37.0–38.1) in 2007 to 34.2% (95% CI = 33.6–34.7) in 2012, with a statistically significant 2% (95% CI = 1–3%) decline per year assuming a linear trend. The 1‐year period prevalence declined from 64.9% in 2007 to 56.6% in 2012. The strongest predictor of PIM use was the number of drugs dispensed. Individuals aged 70 and older and those seen by a geriatrician were less likely to receive a PIM.

Conclusion

From 2007 to 2012, the prevalence of PIM use in older U.S. adults decreased according to the 2012 Beers criteria, although it remains high, still affecting one‐third each month and more than half over 12 months. The number of dispensed prescriptions could be used to target future interventions.
An exploration of the bone health of older adults with an intellectual disability in Ireland
Authors: Burke E. A. , McCallion P. , Carroll R. , Walsh J. B. , McCarron M.
Published: April 2016

Background

Many risk factors have been confirmed for poor bone health among the general population including age, gender and corticosteroid use. There is a paucity of investigation among people with intellectual disability; however, research points to differing risks namely anti‐epileptic medication use, Down syndrome and poor behaviour lifestyle.

Methods

Data was extracted from the Intellectual Disability Supplement to the Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing in Ireland. In total, 753 participants took part, and data was gathered on participants' health status, behavioural health, health screenings and activities of daily living. The prevalence of osteoporosis and related risk factors were specifically examined.

Results

Overall, 8.1% reported a doctor's diagnosis of osteoporosis with over 20% reporting history of fracture. Risk identified included older age (P < 0.0001), female gender (P < 0.0001), difficulty walking (P < 0.0001) with older age and being female the stronger predictors for osteoporosis, odds ratio = 6.53; 95% confidence interval 2.82–15.11 and odds ratio = 4.58; 95% confidence interval 2.29–9.17, respectively. There was no gender difference regarding the level of fractures; however, epilepsy and anti‐epileptic medication were strong predictors. Overall, 11.1% attended for bone screening diagnostics.

Conclusion

Despite low levels of reported doctor's diagnosis of osteoporosis risk factor prevalence was high. Considering the insidious nature of osteoporosis and the low levels of diagnostic screening, prevalence could be possibly higher.
Update on the pharmacological treatment of adult myositis
Authors: Oddis C. V.
Published: April 2016

The management of patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathy (IIM) remains a challenge given the systemic features beyond active myositis. That is, recognizing the inflammatory arthropathy, varying dermatomyositis rashes, and overt and occult features of interstitial lung disease in addition to myositis adds to the complexity of diagnosis and treatment of IIM. However, clinicians now have available many more immunosuppressive drugs as well as biologic agents for use in patients with myositis and other autoimmune diseases. Here, the use of these agents is reviewed and support based on available published literature is provided even though many studies have been small and results somewhat anecdotal. Glucocorticoids remain the initial treatment of choice in most instances and methotrexate and azathioprine are often used early in the treatment course. These agents are followed by other immunosuppressive drugs, for example mycophenolate mofetil, tacrolimus, cyclosporine and cyclophosphamide, some of which are used alone while combinations of these agents also provide an effective option. There is more rationale for the use of biologic agents such as rituximab from a mechanistic perspective and, given the incorporation of validated core set measures in assessing myositis patients, we can look forward to better designed clinical trials in the future.
Ambivalence in Gay and Lesbian Family Relationships
Authors: Reczek Corinne
Published: April 2016

Intergenerational ambivalence—the simultaneous presence of both positive and negative dimensions of a parent–child tie—is a concept widely used in family studies. Scholars have clarified the measurement of psychological ambivalence, or an individual's own feelings of ambivalence toward others. Yet research has yet to demonstrate whether—and, if so, how—individuals characterize others as ambivalent. Moreover, relatively little is known about ambivalence in gay and lesbian families. In the present study 60 in‐depth interviews were analyzed to identify what the author calls perceived ambivalence in the parent, sibling, extended kin, and “in‐law” relationships of gay and lesbian adults. Perceived ambivalence is revealed through gay and lesbian adults' characterizations of family members' simultaneous positive and negative overt and covert beliefs and behavior. In addition, the author refines the concept of collective ambivalence, wherein perceived ambivalence typifies an entire family unit. The findings further revealed the importance of broader sociological factors, such as homophobia, in structuring perceived ambivalence.
Family Caregiving of Aging Adults With Down Syndrome
Authors: Hodapp Robert M. , Burke Meghan M. , Finley Crystal I. , Urbano Richard C.
Published: April 2016

Although persons with Down syndrome now live to approximately 60 years, the implications of increased longevity on family caregiving have received inadequate attention. Even compared with adults with other types of intellectual disabilities, by their late 40s and 50s adults with Down syndrome often show multiple health problems, cognitive‐adaptive declines, and changes in daily work and activities. If alive, their parents are more often elderly, as mothers give birth to newborns with Down syndrome at a median age of 32 years (with high percentages age 40 and older). In addition, higher percentages of adults with (vs. without) Down syndrome live in their family homes and greater percentages may ultimately reside with siblings. Compared with caring for other adults with intellectual disabilities, aging adults with Down syndrome may present earlier—and possibly more severe and more health‐related—caregiving challenges to their parents and siblings. As a field and as a society, the authors note that we need to promote revisions of family support policies and interventions; recognize the inter‐relations of aging‐related changes and their effects; and anticipate how aging‐related changes in the brother–sister with Down syndrome and the parent(s) might affect sibling caregivers.
Fructose consumption impairs serotonergic signaling in the murine enteric nervous system
Authors: Lowette K. , Desmet A.‐S. , Farré R.M. , Tack J. , Vanden Berghe P.
Published: April 2016

The intake of free fructose has increased substantially since the development of high‐fructose corn syrup. This has not only been associated with metabolic disorders but recent evidence also indicates that chronic fructose consumption can affect neuronal and cognitive function. In this study we investigated the effects of fructose consumption on serotonergic signaling and neuronal activity in the mouse submucous plexus. Male mice were put on a control or fructose (23% solution) diet for 6 weeks or were assigned to a recovery group that received normal water (2 weeks) after 4 weeks of fructose. At the end of the diet, gene expressions and enteric neuronal activity, after depolarization with high K+ and 5‐HT, were measured using Ca2+ imaging and RT‐qPCR, respectively. Even in the lack of gain weight and the absence of changes in duodenal permeability, the total number of 5‐HT‐responding neurons and the depolarization and 5‐HT‐evoked Ca2+ amplitudes were significantly lower after fructose consumption. Expression of synaptobrevin CaV2.1 and CaV2.2 mRNA did not differ after fructose intake; however, CaV2.1 mRNA levels were significantly higher in the recovery animals. SERT mRNA concentration, isolated from submucosal plexus containing mucosal epithelium, was significantly decreased after fructose consumption. Chronic fructose consumption impairs serotonergic signaling in the mouse submucous plexus, prior to weight gain and detectable intestinal permeability problems.
High‐mobility group box‐1 release into fetal circulation from umbilical cord tissue and amniotic epithelium in fetal ischemia
Authors: Nakamura Toshihiko , Yoshioka Toshirou , Yamada Shingo , Miyasho Taku , Sakakibara Nana , Hatanaka Daishuke
Published: April 2016

We report the case of a baby with low birthweight born by emergency caesarean section at 33 weeks 2 days' gestation due to placental abruption. High‐mobility group box‐1 (HMGB‐1) and interleukin‐17 concentration in the umbilical cord blood were high at 55.7 ng/mL and 50.7 pg/mL, respectively. On immunostaining of umbilical cord and amniotic epithelium, HMGB‐1 was identified in the nuclei of vascular endothelial cells and cytoplasm of the surrounding cells in the umbilical cord. This suggests that, in the present case of placental abruption and subsequent ischemic placenta and fetus, the high level of HMGB‐1 observed was due to the release of HMGB‐1 into the umbilical cord blood from the vascular endothelial cells of the umbilical cord.
What's the meaning of this? A behavioral and neurophysiological investigation into the principles behind the classification of visual emotional stimuli
Authors: Czekóová Kristína , Shaw Daniel J. , Urbánek Tomáš , Chládek Jan , Lamoš Martin , Roman Robert , Brázdil Milan
Published: April 2016

Two experiments were performed to investigate the principles by which emotional stimuli are classified on the dimensions of valence and arousal. In Experiment 1, a large sample of healthy participants rated emotional stimuli according to both broad dimensions. Hierarchical cluster analyses performed on these ratings revealed that stimuli were clustered according to their semantic content at the beginning of the agglomerative process. Example semantic themes include food, violence, nudes, death, and objects. Importantly, this pattern occurred in a parallel fashion for ratings on both dimensions. In Experiment 2, we investigated if the same semantic clusters were differentiated at the neurophysiological level. Intracerebral EEG was recorded from 18 patients with intractable epilepsy who viewed the same set of stimuli. Not only did electrocortical responses differentiate between these data‐defined semantic clusters, they converged with the behavioral measurements to highlight the importance of categories associated with survival and reproduction. These findings provide strong evidence that the semantic content of affective material influences their classification along the broad dimensions of valence and arousal, and this principle of categorization exerts an effect on the evoked emotional response. Future studies should consider data‐driven techniques rather than normative ratings to identify more specific, semantically related emotional images.
Non‐pharmacological treatments for COPD
Authors: Mulhall Patrick , Criner Gerard
Published: April 2016

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) affects roughly 10% of the global population and is growing in prevalence annually. COPD is characterized by progressive non‐reversible narrowing of airways mainly due to cigarette smoking. Therapeutic interventions aimed at altering this progressive disease course can largely be grouped into pharmacological or non‐pharmacological therapies. The focus of this paper is on the non‐pharmacological aspects of COPD management, reviewing the current literature to provide an evidence‐based management approach. Non‐pharmacological therapies reviewed in this article include the implementation of comprehensive care models utilizing a coordinated multidisciplinary team, tele‐monitoring and patient‐centred approach to optimize COPD care and improve compliance. Preventing progression of COPD via smoking cessation remains of paramount importance, and newer therapeutic options including electronic cigarettes show promise in small studies as cessation aids. COPD has systemic manifestations that can be ameliorated with the enrollment in pulmonary rehabilitation programmes, which focus on exercise endurance to improve dyspnoea and quality of life. Advanced therapeutics for COPD includes lung volume reduction surgery for a pre‐specified cohort and minimally invasive bronchoscopic valves that in recent reviews show promise. Lastly, patients on maximal COPD therapy with progressive disease can be referred for lung transplantation; however, this often requires a highly selected and motivated patient and care team. Survival rates for lung transplantation are improving; thus, this procedure remains a viable option as more expertise and experience are gained.
Introduction to systematic reviews and meta‐analysis
Authors: McKenzie Joanne E. , Beller Elaine M. , Forbes Andrew B.
Published: April 2016

Systematic reviews provide a method for collating and synthesizing research, and are used to inform healthcare decision making by clinicians, consumers and policy makers. A core component of many systematic reviews is a meta‐analysis, which is a statistical synthesis of results across studies. In this review article, we introduce meta‐analysis, focusing on the different meta‐analysis models, their interpretation, how a model should be selected and discuss potential threats to the validity of meta‐analyses. We illustrate the application of meta‐analysis using data from a review examining the effects of early use of inhaled corticosteroids in the emergency department treatment of acute asthma.
Antenatal origins of reduced lung function‐but not asthma?
Authors: Turner Steve
Published: April 2016

See article, page 674
Reappraising and Extending the Predictors of States’ Immigrant Policies: Industry Influences and the Moderating Effect of Political Ideology*
Authors: Commins Margaret M. , Wills Jeremiah B.
Published: April 2016

Objective

We examined how the preferences of firms in immigrant‐heavy industries influence the enactment of immigration policies by states and considered whether political ideology, serving as an interpretive lens for such preferences, moderates the effects of industry influences. Existing hypotheses about immigrant policy predictors were also reevaluated.

Method

We coded all immigration bills enacted for years 2005–2012 and fit multilevel, mixed models to predict state‐year counts of beneficial and restrictive policies.

Results

Models showed that increases in GDP and employment within the accommodations industry predicted more beneficial immigrant policies within states. The effect of construction industry variables was conditional on state residents’ political ideology. There was mixed support for extant racial and economic threat and political climate hypotheses.

Conclusion

Firms in sectors heavily dependent on immigrant labor influence state‐level immigrant policy. Some of these effects are direct, and some are moderated by state residents’ political beliefs.
Empirical Evidence and Determinants of Region‐Based Environmental Injustice in China: Does Environmental Public Service Level Make a Difference?*
Authors: Zhang Xiaojie , Zhao Ke , Jennings Edward T.
Published: April 2016

Objective

We examine empirical evidence of region‐based environmental injustice in China, and factors, especially environmental public service, that contribute to the distribution of environmental hazards among various Chinese regions.

Methods

We use variance analysis to assess the disparate distribution of environmental hazards, and then employ the expanded Stochastic Impacts by Regression on Population, Affluence, and Technology (STIRPAT) model to identify the determinants, using a panel data set of 26 provincial capital cities and four municipalities directly under Chinese central government over the period 2003–2010.

Results and Conclusions

Our findings confirm the presence of region‐based environmental injustice in China and demonstrate its annual improvement. We also find that environmental public service, economic development level, population size, and environmental protection technology are major impact factors. These findings not only support the environmental Kuznets curve assumption, but also help to advance the existing literature on environmental justice and the human‐environment relationship.
Following the Crowd or Thinking Outside of the Box? Saliency and Issue Consistency*
Authors: Garner Andrew D. , Palmer Harvey D.
Published: April 2016

Objective

This article examines the distinction between group‐based issue opinion formation (what we term “following the crowd”) and idiosyncratic or nongroup‐based formation (what we term “thinking outside of the box”). The argument put forth is that issue saliency can lead citizens to think about issues in nongroup‐based terms.

Method

We use heteroskedastic regression to measure the degree to which group‐based variables explain issue opinions. Using group variables (demographics, party identification, etc.) to estimate respondents' issue responses means that nongroup variation is soaked up by the error term.

Results

We find that citizens who view an issue as highly salient are more likely to “think outside the box,” while citizens who view an issue as less salient are more likely to “follow the crowd” by defaulting to their group memberships and identifications.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that response variability (less consistency within groups) on issue opinions is not always the result of uncertain citizens, nonattitudes, or measurement error. In some situations, greater response variability can reflect a deliberative and policy‐based form of opinion formation.
Expansion of the Adherence Club model for stable antiretroviral therapy patients in the Cape Metro, South Africa 2011–2015
Authors: Wilkinson Lynne , Harley Beth , Sharp Joseph , Solomon Suhair , Jacobs Shahieda , Cragg Carol , Kriel Ebrahim , Peton Neshaan , Jennings Karen , Grimsrud Anna
Published: April 2016

Objective

The ambitious ‘90‐90‐90’ treatment targets require innovative models of care to support quality antiretroviral therapy (ART) delivery. While evidence for differentiated models of ART delivery is growing, there are few data on the feasibility of scale‐up. We describe the implementation of the Adherence Club (AC) model across the Cape Metro health district in Cape Town, South Africa, between January 2011 and March 2015.

Methods

Using data from monthly aggregate AC monitoring reports and electronic monitoring systems for the district cohort, we report on the number of facilities offering ACs and the number of patients receiving ART care in the AC model.

Results

Between January 2011 and March 2015, the AC programme expanded to reach 32 425 patients in 1308 ACs at 55 facilities. The proportion of the total ART cohort retained in an AC increased from 7.3% at the end of 2011 to 25.2% by March 2015. The number of facilities offering ACs also increased and by the end of the study period, 92.3% of patients were receiving ART at a facility that offered ACs. During this time, the overall ART cohort doubled from 66 616 to 128 697 patients. The implementation of the AC programme offset this increase by 51%.

Conclusions

ACs now provide ART care to more than 30 000 patients. Further expansion of the model will require additional resources and support. More research is necessary to determine the outcomes and quality of care provided in ACs and other differentiated models of ART delivery, especially when implemented at scale.
Cylinders in singular del Pezzo surfaces
Authors: Cheltsov Ivan , Park Jihun , Won Joonyeong
Published: April 2016

For each del Pezzo surface$S$with du Val singularities, we determine whether it admits a$(-K_{S})$-polar cylinder or not. If it allows one, then we present an effective$\mathbb{Q}$-divisor$D$that is$\mathbb{Q}$-linearly equivalent to$-K_{S}$and such that the open set$S\setminus \text{Supp}(D)$is a cylinder. As a corollary, we classify all the del Pezzo surfaces with du Val singularities that admit non-trivial$\mathbb{G}_{a}$-actions on their affine cones defined by their anticanonical divisors.
Portfolio selection problem: a comparison of fuzzy goal programming and linear physical programming
Authors: Kucukbay Fusun , Araz Ceyhun
Published: April 2016

Investors have limited budget and they try to maximize their return with minimum risk. Therefore this study aims to deal with the portfolio selection problem. In the study two criteria are considered which are expected return, and risk. In this respect, linear physical programming (LPP) technique is applied on Bist 100 stocks to be able to find out the optimum portfolio. The analysis covers the period April 2009- March 2015. This period is divided into two; April 2009-March 2014 and April 2014 – March 2015. April 2009-March 2014 period is used as data to find an optimal solution. April 2014-March 2015 period is used to test the real performance of portfolios. The performance of the obtained portfolio is compared with that obtained from fuzzy goal programming (FGP). Then the performances of both method, LPP and FGP are compared with BIST 100 in terms of their Sharpe Indexes. The findings reveal that LPP for portfolio selection problem is a good alternative to FGP.
Altered development in GABA co‐release shapes glycinergic synaptic currents in cultured spinal slices of the SOD1G93A mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Medelin Manuela , Rancic Vladimir , Cellot Giada , Laishram Jummi , Veeraraghavan Priyadharishini , Rossi Chiara , Muzio Luca , Sivilotti Lucia , Ballerini Laura
Published: April 2016

Key points

Increased environmental risk factors in conjunction with genetic susceptibility have been proposed with respect to the remarkable variations in mortality in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

In vitro models allow the investigation of the genetically modified counter‐regulator of motoneuron toxicity and may help in addressing ALS therapy.

Spinal organotypic slice cultures from a mutant form of human superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1G93A) mouse model of ALS allow the detection of altered glycinergic inhibition in spinal microcircuits.

This altered inhibition improved spinal cord excitability, affecting motor outputs in early SOD1G93A pathogenesis.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal, adult‐onset neurological disease characterized by a progressive degeneration of motoneurons (MNs). In a previous study, we developed organotypic spinal cultures from an ALS mouse model expressing a mutant form of human superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1G93A). We reported the presence of a significant synaptic rearrangement expressed by these embryonic cultured networks, which may lead to the altered development of spinal synaptic signalling, which is potentially linked to the adult disease phenotype. Recent studies on the same ALS mouse model reported a selective loss of glycinergic innervation in cultured MNs, suggestive of a contribution of synaptic inhibition to MN dysfunction and degeneration. In the present study, we further exploit organotypic cultures from wild‐type and SOD1G93A mice to investigate the development of glycine‐receptor‐mediated synaptic currents recorded from the interneurons of the premotor ventral circuits. We performed single cell electrophysiology, immunocytochemistry and confocal microscopy and suggest that GABA co‐release may speed the decay of glycine responses altering both temporal precision and signal integration in SOD1G93A developing networks at the postsynaptic site. Our hypothesis is supported by the finding of an increased MN bursting activity in immature SOD1G93A spinal cords and by immunofluorescence microscopy detection of a longer persistence of GABA in SOD1G93A glycinergic terminals in cultured and ex vivo spinal slices.
Generalized Method to Analyze Acoustomechanical Stability of Soft Materials
Authors: Xin Fengxian , Lu Tianjian
Published: April 2016

Acoustic radiation force generated by two counterpropagating acoustic waves in a thin layer of soft material can induce large deformation, and hence can be applied to design acoustomechanical actuators. Owing to the sensitivity of wave propagation to material geometry, the change of layer thickness may enhance wave propagation and acoustic radiation force, causing a jumping larger deformation, i.e., snap-through instability. Built upon the basis of strong elliptic condition, we develop a generalized theoretical method to evaluate the acoustomechanical stability of soft material actuators. We demonstrate that acoustomechanical instability occurs when the true tangential stiffness matrix ceases to be positive definite. Our results show that prestresses can not only enhance significantly the acoustomechanical stability of the soft material layer but also amplify its actuation stretch in thickness direction.
Locally Exact Homogenization of Unidirectional Composites With Cylindrically Orthotropic Fibers
Authors: Wang Guannan , Pindera Marek-Jerzy
Published: April 2016

The elasticity-based, locally exact homogenization theory for unidirectional composites with hexagonal and tetragonal symmetries and transversely isotropic phases is further extended to accommodate cylindrically orthotropic reinforcement. The theory employs Fourier series representations of the fiber and matrix displacement fields in cylindrical coordinate system that satisfy exactly equilibrium equations and continuity conditions in the interior of the unit cell. Satisfaction of periodicity conditions for the inseparable exterior problem is efficiently accomplished using previously introduced balanced variational principle which ensures rapid displacement solution convergence with relatively few harmonic terms. As demonstrated in this contribution, this also applies to cylindrically orthotropic reinforcement for which the eigenvalues depend on both the orthotropic elastic moduli and harmonic number. The solution's demonstrated stability facilitates rapid identification of cylindrical orthotropy's impact on homogenized moduli and local fields in wide ranges of fiber volume fraction and orthotropy ratios. The developed theory provides a unified approach that accounts for cylindrical orthotropy explicitly in both the homogenization process and local stress field calculations previously treated separately through a fiber replacement scheme. Comparison of the locally exact solution with classical solutions based on an idealized microstructural representation and fiber moduli replacement with equivalent transversely isotropic properties delineates their applicability and limitations.
Linking Science Fiction and Physics Courses
Authors: McBride Krista K.
Published: April 2016

Generally, cohorts or learning communities enrich higher learning in students. Learning communities consist of conventionally separate groups of students that meet together with common academic purposes and goals. Types of learning communities include paired courses with concurrent student enrollment, living-learning communities, and faculty learning communities. This article discusses a learning community of 21 students that I created with a colleague in the English department. The community encompasses two general education courses: an algebra-based physics course entitled “Intro to Physics” and a literature course entitled “Science Fiction, Science Fact.” Students must enroll in both of these courses during the same semester. Additionally, I highlight advantages to linking these courses through surveying the assignments and course materials that we used in our learning community. Figure 1 shows the topics that are covered in both physics and literature courses.
Homemade Wooden Vernier Scales for Use by Blind Students
Authors: Tomac Mike , Bidleman Cricket , Brown Dan
Published: April 2016

Because she had been blind since birth, we knew that our new student, Cricket, would be unable to make the necessary measurements needed to get any meaningful lab data while all of the other students would be able to use highly accurate commercial Vernier calipers. All we had on loan for Cricket was a Brailled plastic tactile meterstick with low resolution divisions to the nearest whole centimeter. This was unacceptable, considering that the other students were achieving very accurate and consistent readings with their analog Vernier calipers to the nearest 0.005 cm. So using the Vernier scale concept, we decided to make a low-tech tactile wooden “Vernier caliper” that would have much more resolution and be quick and easy to use by anyone, even if totally blind.
MAUVE: A New Strategy for Solving and Grading Physics Problems
Authors: Hill Nicole Breanne
Published: April 2016

MAUVE (magnitude, answer, units, variables, and equations) is a framework and rubric to help students and teachers through the process of clearly solving and assessing solutions to introductory physics problems. Success in introductory physics often derives from an understanding of units, a command over dimensional analysis, and good bookkeeping. I developed MAUVE for an introductory-level environmental physics course as an easy-to-remember checklist to help students construct organized and thoughtful solutions to physics problems. Environmental physics is a core physics course for environmental and sustainability science (ESS) majors that teaches principles of radiation, thermodynamics, and mechanics within the context of the environment and sustainable energy systems. ESS student concentrations include environmental biology, applied ecology, biogeochemistry, and natural resources. The MAUVE rubric, inspired by nature, has encouraged my students to produce legible and tactical work, and has significantly clarified the grading process.
Impact of Guided Reflection with Peers on the Development of Effective Problem Solving Strategies and Physics Learning
Authors: Mason Andrew J. , Singh Chandralekha
Published: April 2016

Students must learn effective problem solving strategies in order to develop expertise in physics. Effective problem solving strategies include a conceptual analysis of the problem followed by planning of the solution, and then implementation, evaluation, and reflection upon the process. Research suggests that converting a problem from the initial verbal representation to other suitable representation, e.g., diagrammatic representation, during the initial conceptual analysis can facilitate further analysis of the problem. But without guidance, many introductory physics students solve problems using superficial clues and cues and do not perceive problem solving as an opportunity for learning. Here, we describe a study that suggests that engaging students in reflection with peers about effective problem solving strategies while effective approaches are modeled for them and prompt feedback is provided may enhance desirable skills.
CD, DVD, and Blu-Ray Disc Diffraction with a Laser Ray Box
Authors: DeWeerd Alan J.
Published: April 2016

A compact disc (CD) can be used as a diffraction grating, even though its track consists of a series of pits, not a continuous groove. Previous authors described how to measure the track spacing on a CD using an incident laser beam normal to the surface or one at an oblique angle. In both cases, the diffraction pattern was projected on a screen and distance measurements allowed the track spacing to be calculated. I propose an alternative method using a laser ray box, which is also applied to a DVD and a Blu-ray disc.
Templeton grant funds evolution rethink
Authors: Pennisi Elizabeth
Published: April 2016

$8.7 million to test controversial ideas that go beyond genes and natural selection.
Bell correlations in a Bose-Einstein condensate
Authors: Schmied Roman , Bancal Jean-Daniel , Allard Baptiste , Fadel Matteo , Scarani Valerio , Treutlein Philipp , Sangouard Nicolas
Published: April 2016

Correlating an atomic condensate

Parts of a quantum system can be more “correlated” than what is allowed in the everyday classical world: A measurement on one part of the system can immediately affect a spatially distant component. The strongest of such correlations, Bell correlations, have been detected in small systems containing two to a handful of particles. Schmied
et al.
used collective measurements to detect Bell correlations among the spins of 480 Rb atoms cooled to a condensed state. This many-body correlated state may be useful as a resource in quantum information processing.

Science
, this issue p.
441