bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A functional neuregulin-1 gene variant and stressful life events: Effect on drug use in a longitudinal population-representative cohort study
Authors: Vaht Mariliis , Laas Kariina , Kiive Evelyn , Parik Jüri , Veidebaum Toomas , Harro Jaanus
Published: June 2016

Background:

The neuregulin 1 gene is a susceptibility gene for substance dependence. A functional polymorphism (SNP8NRG243177/rs6994992; C/T) in the promoter region of the brain-specific type IV neuregulin-1 gene ( NRG1) has been associated with psychiatric disorders (e.g. schizophrenia and bipolar disorder) that often present higher odds of smoking, alcohol and illicit drug use. This study assessed the association of the NRG1 genotype with drug use and possible interaction with stressful life events (SLEs).

Methods:

The database of the Estonian Children Personality Behaviour and Health Study (beginning in 1998) was used. Cohorts of children initially 9 years old ( n=583; followed up at 15 and 18 years) and 15 years old ( n=593; followed up at 18 and 25 years) provided self-reports on alcohol, tobacco and illicit substance use and SLEs. Psychiatric assessment based on DSM-IV was carried out on the older birth cohort at age 25 to assess the lifetime presence of substance use disorders. NRG1 rs6994992 was genotyped in all participants by TaqMan® Pre-Designed SNP Genotyping Assay on the Applied Biosystems ViiA™ 7 Real-Time PCR System. The minor (T) allele frequency was 0.37.

Results:

NRG1 rs6994992 C/C homozygotes, especially those who had experienced more SLEs, were more likely to develop alcohol use disorders by young adulthood, were generally more active consumers of tobacco products, and had more likely used illicit drugs. In T allele carriers, SLEs had a negligible effect on substance use.

Conclusions:

In humans, NRG1 genotype is associated with substance use, and this relationship is moderated by adverse life events, with a gain-of-function allele being protective.
Carbon rovings as strain sensors for structural health monitoring of engineering materials and structures
Authors: Quadflieg Till , Stolyarov Oleg , Gries Thomas
Published: June 2016

A prospective method for structural health monitoring of engineering materials and structures is based on embedded strain sensors in the form of electrically conductive carbon rovings. This article presents the results of the application of carbon rovings and the development of flexible textile fabrics based on these rovings for measuring the deformation in engineering materials, including concrete and polymer- and cement-based composites. The possibility of using carbon rovings as a strain sensor is demonstrated via measurements in tensile and four-point bending tests. The experimental setups and methods for measuring the electrical resistance of carbon roving as a function of strain in the roving, concrete, and composites are described. A good correlation has been found between the electrical resistance–strain curve of the carbon roving (used as a calibration curve) and the measurements in the concrete and polymer composites from tensile tests. The difference in the character of the flexural behavior and the electrical signal in the carbon roving cement-based composite, affected by the stitch type and shape of the carbon roving cross section in textile fabric, was found through four-point bending tests.
Modeling the habit of self-service technology usage
Authors: Wang Cheng , Harris Jennifer , Patterson Paul G
Published: June 2016

Prior self-service technology (SST) studies focus primarily on the initial adoption and its drivers. However, the long-term viability and success of an SST depend on regular and frequent usage. Therefore, this study draws on social psychology and information system/information technology literature to investigate the habit of SST usage and its driving forces. Using panel data pertaining to 626 Australian customers who used a supermarket self-checkout machine over 12 weeks, the results reveal a strong carryover effect of habit. Satisfaction and self-efficacy positively contribute to habit development. Past behavior exerts an impact through frequency and recency effects. Moreover, the driving forces of habit are more complicated for men than for women. The findings provide important implications for service providers planning technology upgrades. The results suggest that to prevent habit disruption, gradual improvements are a better and safer strategy than introducing a new, disruptive technology.
Does the market price the nature and extent of earnings management for firms that beat their earnings benchmark?
Authors: Lento Camillo , Cotter Julie , Tutticci Irene
Published: June 2016

This study investigates whether the abnormal returns at the quarterly earnings announcement date varies according to the market’s expectations of the nature (informative vs opportunistic) and extent of discretionary accruals for firms that meet or beat expectations (MBE). In doing so, this study introduces an innovative model that measures the market’s expectation of the informativeness of earnings at the earnings announcement date and assesses the impact on the abnormal return for the interaction between the nature and expected extent of earnings management. A large sample of Standard & Poor’s (S&P) 500 firms that meet or exceed their earnings expectation over the period of 1998 to 2007 is analyzed. The results reveal that the expected extent of earnings management has a positive (negative) relation with the abnormal return when earnings management is informative (opportunistic).
Not so simple
Authors: Bottery Mike
Published: June 2016

This article begins by examining the possible meanings of ‘sustainability’, and argues that most meanings are prescriptive rather than descriptive in nature: they tend, either overtly or covertly, to recommend the particular end-states that writers desire. The article then looks at the threats to leadership sustainability, suggesting that a lack of sustainability is not only caused by excessive volume of work and lack of preparation for the role, but also by how different stakeholders view the role. Greater sustainability, it is proposed, comes from recognizing the ‘wicked’ rather than the ‘tame’ nature of the role, and of the need to apply solutions which reflect the ‘wicked’ nature of many leadership challenges. Finally, links are made between leadership sustainability and the sustainability of larger social, economic and environmental systems, suggesting that they have many similar causes and many similar remedies.
Smartening border security in the European Union: An associational inquiry
Authors: Jeandesboz Julien
Published: June 2016

This contribution asks how the reliance on mass dataveillance of travellers is sustained as a central policy option in the governance of EU border security. It examines this question by analysing a recent initiative of the European Commission proposing the establishment of EU ‘smart borders’. The analysis draws from a set of thinking tools developed by the sociology of association in the field of science and technology studies. The contribution argues that in order to grasp policy outcomes such as smart borders, security studies would benefit from adopting a compositional outlook on agency, where action is seen as the effect of associated entities. Looking at the smartening of EU borders, the article finds that this process is held together by multiple translations and enrolments through which the technical side of dataveillance – platforms, automated gates, matching systems, and so forth – has become associated with the processes of policymaking on border security and sustains the furtherance of mass dataveillance.
A Case Report of Bilateral Sarcomatoid Carcinoma of Adrenal Glands With Adrenal Insufficiency
Authors: Ishikawa Noriyoshi , Nagase Mamiko , Takami Saki , Araki Asuka , Ishikawa Nahoko , Koike Chiaki , Shiina Hiroaki , Maruyama Riruke
Published: June 2016

Adrenocortical carcinomas are relatively rare, but they are considered to be highly aggressive malignant tumors. Sarcomatoid carcinomas represent an even more aggressive type. Bilateral malignant adrenal tumors are extraordinary rare, except for those that represent metastatic spread from a primary neoplasm. Here we report a case of a 69-year-old woman who presented symptoms that raised strong suspicions of adrenal insufficiency. Bilateral adrenal masses, identified in the imaging study, were responsible for the clinical manifestation and surgically resected. Surgical specimens of the bilateral adrenal tumors shared histological features compatible with sarcomatoid carcinoma. It was very difficult to confirm that the sarcomatoid carcinomas were derived from the cortex of the adrenal glands, but careful morphological observation and the panel of antibodies used for immunohistochemistry made the diagnosis possible. This is the first report of sarcomatoid carcinomas involving both adrenal glands. It should be emphasized that sarcomatoid carcinoma can arise bilaterally from even functionally impaired adrenal glands.
Managed intra-party democracy
Authors: Aylott Nicholas , Bolin Niklas
Published: June 2016

The question of how party leaders are selected has recently, and belatedly, come under systematic comparative scrutiny. If it is the location of intra-party power that interests us, however, it might be that some of the more observable indicators in such processes, such as the identity of the selectorate, are not actually the most revealing ones. Using a delegation perspective, we thus present a framework for analysing prior steps in leader selection and relate it to various ideal-typical constellations of intra-party power. The framework encompasses, first, what we call precursory delegation, with focus especially on an agent that, formally or informally, manages the selection process before it reaches the selectorate. Second, the framework takes account of the degree to which the process is managed rather than left open to free competition between leader candidates. We illustrate the framework primarily with instances of leader selection in two Swedish parties.
YouTube®: An ally or an enemy in the promotion of living donor kidney transplantation?
Authors: Bert Fabrizio , Gualano Maria Rosaria , Scozzari Gitana , Alesina Marta , Amoroso Antonio , Siliquini Roberta
Published: June 2016

The aim of the study is to evaluate the availability and accuracy of the existing Italian-language medical information about living donor kidney transplantation on YouTube®. For each video, several data were collected, and each video was classified as “useful,” “moderately useful” and “not useful.” Globally, the search resulted in 306 videos: 260 were excluded and 46 included in the analysis. The main message conveyed by the video was positive in 28 cases (60.9%), neutral in 16 (34.8%) and negative in 2 (4.4%). The mean amount of visualizations was 3103.5 (range: 17–90,133) and the mean amount of “likes” 2.7 (range: 0–28). Seven videos (15.2%) were classified as “useful,” 21 (45.7%) as “moderately useful” and 18 (39.1%) as “not useful.” This study showed that a very few videos in Italian about living donor kidney transplantation are available on YouTube, with only 15 percent of them containing useful information for the general population.
Evaluation of the Antimicrobial Efficacy of a Novel Rifampin/Minocycline-Coated, Noncrosslinked Porcine Acellular Dermal Matrix Compared With Uncoated Scaffolds for Soft Tissue Repair
Authors: Majumder Arnab , Scott Jeffrey R. , Novitsky Yuri W.
Published: June 2016

Background. Despite meticulous aseptic technique and systemic antibiotics, bacterial colonization of mesh remains a critical issue in hernia repair. A novel minocycline/rifampin tyrosine–coated, noncrosslinked porcine acellular dermal matrix (XenMatrix AB) was developed to protect the device from microbial colonization for up to 7 days. The objective of this study was to evaluate the in vitro and in vivo antimicrobial efficacy of this device against clinically isolated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Escherichia coli. Methods. XenMatrix AB was compared with 5 existing uncoated soft tissue repair devices using in vitro methods of zone of inhibition (ZOI) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) at 24 hours following inoculation with MRSA or E coli. These devices were also evaluated at 7 days following dorsal implantation and inoculation with MRSA or E coli (60 male New Zealand white rabbits, n = 10 per group) for viable colony-forming units (CFU), abscess formation and histopathologic response, respectively. Results. In vitro studies demonstrated a median ZOI of 36 mm for MRSA and 16 mm for E coli for XenMatrix AB, while all uncoated devices showed no inhibition of bacterial growth (0 mm). SEM also demonstrated no visual evidence of MRSA or E coli colonization on the surface of XenMatrix AB compared with colonization of all other uncoated devices. In vivo XenMatrix AB demonstrated complete inhibition of bacterial colonization, no abscess formation, and a reduced inflammatory response compared with uncoated devices. Conclusion. We demonstrated that XenMatrix AB possesses potent in vitro and in vivo antimicrobial efficacy against clinically isolated MRSA and E coli compared with uncoated devices.
Optimum coil insertion speed of various coils in brain aneurysm embolization in vitro
Authors: Konishi Yoshifumi , Takeuchi Masataka , Fukasaku Kazuaki
Published: June 2016

A coil must comprise material with shape memory to perform optimal coil embolization. To achieve this, the alloy characteristics of the coil (hardness, shape, and thickness) must be understood. In this experiment, a catheter was fixed in the bright position and the movement of the coil was observed under a constant rate of insertion; the optimal insertion rate during clinical use was investigated. The first coil insertion speed was evaluated using simulated aneurysms in an in vivo arterial model. The results showed that the insertion force relates to the deployment shape of the coil, that the feedback through the force indicator using sound is very effective, and that the recorder is useful for analysis of coil embolization. The inserted coils during aneurysm embolization were able to wind uniformly within the aneurysm due to a variety of factors (guiding or micro-catheter position and kick-back phenomenon such as delivery wire). Optimal speed is achieved with proper coil design, which allows the coil to be inserted into the aneurysm. The shape and size of the aneurysm can help determine the necessary size and design of the coil that should be used during the optimal speed range. Aneurysm wall and coil characteristics are considered, along with the friction state of the coil (hardness, shape, and thickness), leading to improvements in safety during the insertion procedure at optimum speed.
Involution and vacuum: Comments on mainstream U.S. media studies
Authors: Lee Chin-Chuan
Published: June 2016

Mainstream U.S. media studies has been marked by an involuntary process toward greater self-absorption and internal development, hence privileging methodologically elaborate study of neatly delineated problems over conceptual or theoretical innovation. Communication research is increasingly divorced from the larger contexts of the humanities and social sciences. It may also risk being criticized for operating in historical and global vacuum. The solution is to return to what C. Wright Mills describes as the classic tradition of ‘intellectual craftsmanship’ that encourages the production of sociological imagination.
The deprivation of certitude, legitimacy and hope: Foreign national prisoners and the pains of imprisonment
Authors: Warr Jason
Published: June 2016

At the end of March 2015 there were 10,481 foreign nationals (defined as non-UK passport holders) held in prisons in England and Wales, representing 12 per cent of the overall prison population. The latest published figures from December 2014 also indicated that there were a further 394 immigration detainees also being held in various prisons, rather than Immigration Removal Centres, across England and Wales. Although Sykes’s deprivation model with its associated ‘pains of imprisonment’ has been exhaustively explored by penologists, this article argues that there are a new range of ‘pains’ uniquely faced by foreign national prisoners in England and Wales who come under the scrutiny of the Home Office’s Immigration Service. Drawing on quasi-ethnographic fieldwork in a Specialist Foreign National Prison, this article discusses the new pains relating to a lack of certitude, legitimacy and hope with regard to both their carceral and post-carceral lives.
Mild Dissonance Preferred Over Consonance in Single Chord Perception
Authors: Lahdelma Imre , Eerola Tuomas
Published: June 2016

Previous research on harmony perception has mainly been concerned with horizontal aspects of harmony, turning less attention to how listeners perceive psychoacoustic qualities and emotions in single isolated chords. A recent study found mild dissonances to be more preferred than consonances in single chord perception, although the authors did not systematically vary register and consonance in their study; these omissions were explored here. An online empirical experiment was conducted where participants ( N = 410) evaluated chords on the dimensions of Valence, Tension, Energy, Consonance, and Preference; 15 different chords were played with piano timbre across two octaves. The results suggest significant differences on all dimensions across chord types, and a strong correlation between perceived dissonance and tension. The register and inversions contributed to the evaluations significantly, nonmusicians distinguishing between triadic inversions similarly to musicians. The mildly dissonant minor ninth, major ninth, and minor seventh chords were rated highest for preference, regardless of musical sophistication. The role of theoretical explanations such as aggregate dyadic consonance, the inverted-U hypothesis, and psychoacoustic roughness, harmonicity, and sharpness will be discussed to account for the preference of mild dissonance over consonance in single chord perception.
This is not a pipe: Rationality and affect in European public debate
Authors: Just Sine Nørholm
Published: June 2016

There is a deep discrepancy between political actors’ official calls for public debate in and on the European Union and the debates in which European publics actually partake. Top-down invitations to debate in the deliberative mode leave the citizens cold, and political actors are unable or unwilling to listen to, let alone engage with, emotionally guided bottom-up participation. Using an illustrative case of a Danish public debate over an alleged ban on liquorice pipes, this article argues that the disconnect between invitation and participation may be explained by the fact that representatives of (national and European) political institutions tend to rely on a simplified version of deliberative democracy. This implies privileging rational truth claims at the expense of emotional truthfulness. Connecting invitation and participation, it is argued, requires a reconciliation of rationality and affect within the deliberative paradigm that may enable the conceptualization and practice of public debate as affective rationality.
Comparison of Feeding Strategies for Infants With Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome
Authors: Spillane Nicole T. , Kashyap Sudha , Bateman David , Weindler Marilyn , Krishnamurthy Ganga
Published: June 2016

Introduction:

Infants with hypoplastic left heart syndrome are at risk for growth failure, particularly after stage 1 procedures. The effect of continuous enteral feedings on weight gain has not been previously investigated.

Methods:

A randomized controlled trial was performed in infants with hypoplastic left heart syndrome and single ventricle variants after stage 1 procedures. Eligible infants were randomized to a continuous and intermittent feeding regimen or an exclusive intermittent feeding regimen after stage 1 procedures and continued until hospital discharge. Anthropometric measures and markers of nutritional status were assessed throughout hospitalization.

Results:

Twenty-six infants completed the study. There were no significant differences in weight gain, growth, or nutritional status. Weight gain on full enteral feedings was 24.3 versus 23.6 g/d ( P = .88) for the combination (continuous and intermittent) versus intermittent feeding groups. Weight-for-age Z scores at discharge were −1.37 versus −1.2 ( P = .59) for the combination versus intermittent groups.

Conclusions:

No significant differences in weight gain, growth, or nutritional status were observed at hospital discharge between the two feeding strategies. Despite both groups achieving target daily weight gain after attaining full feeds, growth failure continued to be a problem after stage 1 procedures. Further strategies to improve growth during initial hospitalization are needed.
Pulmonary Valve Replacement With Small Intestine Submucosa-Extracellular Matrix in a Porcine Model
Authors: Miller Jacob R. , Henn Matthew C. , Lancaster Timothy S. , Lawrance Christopher P. , Schuessler Richard B. , Shepard Mark , Anderson Mark , Kovacs Attila , Matheny Robert G. , Eghtesady Pirooz , Damiano Ralph J. , Boston Umar S.
Published: June 2016

Background:

Prosthetic materials available for pediatric pulmonary valve replacement (PVR) lack growth potential, inevitably leading to a size mismatch. Small intestine submucosa–derived extracellular matrix (SIS-ECM) has been suggested to possess regenerative properties. We aimed to investigate its function and potential to increase in size as a PVR in a piglet.

Methods:

An SIS-ECM trileaflet valved conduit was designed. Hanford minipigs, n = 6 (10-34 kg), underwent PVR with an intended survival of six months, with monthly echocardiograms evaluating valve size and function. The conduit was excised for histologic analysis.

Results:

Of the six, one was sacrificed at three months for midterm analysis, and one at month 3 due to endocarditis. The remaining four constituted the study cohort. The piglet weight increased by 186% (19.56 ± 10.22 kg to 56.00 ± 7.87 kg). Conduit size increased by 30% (1.42 ± 0.14 cm to 1.84 ± 0.14 cm; P < .01). The native right ventricular outflow tract increased by 43% and the native pulmonary artery by 84%, resulting in a peak gradient increase from 10.08 ± 2.47 mm Hg to 36.25 ± 18.80 mm Hg ( P = .03). Additionally, all valves developed at least moderate regurgitation. Conduit histology showed advanced remodeling with myofibroblast infiltration, neovascularization, and endothelialization. The leaflets remodeled beginning at the base with the leaflet edge being less cellular. In addition to the known endocarditis, bacterial colonies were discovered within a leaflet in another.

Conclusions:

The SIS-ECM valved conduit implanted into a piglet demonstrated cellular infiltration with vascular remodeling and an increase in diameter. Conduit stenosis was a result of slower rates of size increase than native tissue. Suboptimal leaflet performance requires design modifications.
Three-Dimensional Reconstruction of Intracardiac Anatomy Using CTA and Surgical Planning for Double Outlet Right Ventricle
Authors: Dydynski Philip B. , Kiper Carmen , Kozik Deborah , Keller Bradley B. , Austin Erle , Holland Brian
Published: June 2016

Background:

Although transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) routinely establishes the diagnosis of double outlet right ventricle (DORV), it can be suboptimal for depicting exact ventricular septal defect (VSD) position, especially with respect to the outflow tracts. Advanced imaging with computed tomography angiography (CTA) can help visualize structures and relationships not easily seen by echo. Using computer-aided design, we have the ability to create three-dimensional (3D) models of the intracardiac anatomy, which can be helpful for better depicting the overall anatomy to assist surgical planning.

Methods:

Patients with a diagnosis of DORV were retrospectively reviewed at our institution from October 2013 to April 2015. Patients who preoperatively underwent both TTE and CTA with 3D reconstruction of the intracardiac anatomy were included. Computed tomography angiography findings with 3D intracardiac model creation were compared to the surgical findings.

Results:

Twenty-five patients underwent surgical repair of DORV during the study period. Five patients had CTA with 3D reconstruction, in addition to the standard TTE images, and were included in the study. In all five cases, CTA with 3D reconstruction of the intracardiac anatomy accurately depicted the VSD position relative to important adjacent structures, including the outflow tracts.

Conclusion:

Three-dimensional reconstruction of the intracardiac anatomy using CTA data can provide accurate data for presurgical planning of DORV repair and has the potential for being especially useful in patients for whom intracardiac anatomy and VSD position cannot be well seen by TTE. A larger prospective analysis is warranted to help validate this approach.
Security Personnel Practices and Policies in U.S. Hospitals
Authors: Schoenfisch Ashley L. , Pompeii Lisa A.
Published: June 2016

Concerns of violence in hospitals warrant examination of current hospital security practices. Cross-sectional survey data were collected from members of a health care security and safety association to examine the type of personnel serving as security in hospitals, their policies and practices related to training and weapon/restraint tool carrying/use, and the broader context in which security personnel work to maintain staff and patient safety, with an emphasis on workplace violence prevention and mitigation. Data pertaining to 340 hospitals suggest security personnel were typically non-sworn officers directly employed (72%) by hospitals. Available tools included handcuffs (96%), batons (56%), oleoresin capsicum products (e.g., pepper spray; 52%), hand guns (52%), conducted electrical weapons (e.g., TASERs®; 47%), and K9 units (12%). Current workplace violence prevention policy components, as well as recommendations to improve hospital security practices, aligned with Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines. Comprehensive efforts to address the safety and effectiveness of hospital security personnel should consider security personnel’s relationships with other hospital work groups and hospitals’ focus on patients’ safety and satisfaction.
Musculoskeletal Injury Prevention for New Nurses
Authors: Vendittelli D. , Penprase Barbara , Pittiglio Laura
Published: June 2016

Nurses continue to sustain musculoskeletal injuries even with increased emphasis on safe patient handling and mobility (SPHM) and organizational cultures of safety to protect health care workers. Analysis of data from 2011-2014 registered nurse graduates explored hospital safety culture, SPHM education/training, and incidence of new-nurse musculoskeletal injury. Results indicated hospitals provided some type of SPHM education and training, but 46% of study participants were not informed or aware of national SPHM standards or guidelines. Merely 13.9% of participants stated a written “no manual lifting policy” had been implemented; only 32.9% indicated staffing was adequate for SPHM tasks; and only 39.4% stated the hospital had all of the equipment needed to perform SPHM safely. Thirty-nine percent of participants had already sustained a musculoskeletal injury with an additional 35% sustaining but not reporting an injury. More actions are needed to ensure a decrease in musculoskeletal injuries for new nurses.
Exploring anterograde memory: a volumetric MRI study in patients with mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Philippi N. , Noblet V. , Duron E. , Cretin B. , Boully C. , Wisniewski I. , Seux M. L. , Martin-Hunyadi C. , Chaussade E. , Demuynck C. , Kremer S. , Lehéricy S. , Gounot D. , Armspach J. P. , Hanon O. , Blanc F.
Published: June 2016

Background

The aim of this volumetric study was to explore the neuroanatomical correlates of the Free and Cued Selective Reminding Test (FCSRT) and the Delayed Matching-to-Sample—48 items (DMS-48), two tests widely used in France to assess verbal and visual anterograde memory. We wanted to determine to what extent the two tests rely on the medial temporal lobe, and could therefore be predictive of Alzheimer’s disease, in which pathological changes typically start in this region.

Methods

We analysed data from a cohort of 138 patients with mild cognitive impairment participating in a longitudinal multicentre clinical research study. Verbal memory was assessed using the FCSRT and visual recognition memory was evaluated using the DMS-48. Performances on these two tests were correlated to local grey matter atrophy via structural MRI using voxel-based morphometry.

Results

Our results confirm the existence of a positive correlation between the volume of the medial temporal lobe and the performance on the FCSRT, prominently on the left, and the performance on the DMS-48, on the right, for the whole group of patients (family-wise error, P < 0.05). Interestingly, this region remained implicated only in the subgroup of patients who had deficient scores on the cued recall of the FCSRT, whereas the free recall was associated with prefrontal aspects. For the DMS-48, it was only implicated for the group of patients whose performances declined between the immediate and delayed trial. Conversely, temporo-parietal cortices were implicated when no decline was observed. Within the medial temporal lobe, the parahippocampal gyrus was prominently involved for the FCSRT and the immediate trial of the DMS-48, whereas the hippocampus was solely involved for the delayed trial of the DMS-48.

Conclusions

The two tests are able to detect an amnestic profile of the medial temporal type, under the condition that the scores remain deficient after the cued recall of the FCSRT or decline on the delayed recognition trial of the DMS-48. Strategic retrieval as well as perceptual/attentional processes, supported by prefrontal and temporo-parietal cortices, were also found to have an impact on the performances. Finally, the implication of the hippocampus appears time dependent, triggered by a longer delay than the parahippocampus, rather than determined by the sense of recollection or the encoding strength associated with the memory trace.
Utility of CSF biomarkers in psychiatric disorders: a national multicentre prospective study
Authors: Paquet Claire , Magnin Eloi , Wallon David , Troussière Anne-Cécile , Dumurgier Julien , Jager Alain , Bellivier Frank , Bouaziz-Amar Elodie , Blanc Frédéric , Beaufils Emilie , Miguet-Alfonsi Carole , Quillard Muriel , Schraen Susanna , Pasquier Florence , Hannequin Didier , Robert Philippe , Hugon Jacques , Mouton-Liger François ,   For ePLM network and collaborators
Published: June 2016

Background

Affective and psychotic disorders are mental or behavioural patterns resulting in an inability to cope with life’s ordinary demands and routines. These conditions can be a prodromal event of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The prevalence of underlying AD lesions in psychiatric diseases is unknown, and it would be helpful to determine them in patients. AD cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers (amyloid β, tau and phosphorylated tau) have high diagnostic accuracy, both for AD with dementia and to predict incipient AD (mild cognitive impairment due to AD), and they are sometimes used to discriminate psychiatric diseases from AD. Our objective in the present study was to evaluate the clinical utility of CSF biomarkers in a group of patients with psychiatric disease as the main diagnosis.

Methods

In a multicentre prospective study, clinicians filled out an anonymous questionnaire about all of their patients who had undergone CSF biomarker evaluation. Before and after CSF biomarker results were obtained, clinicians provided a diagnosis with their level of confidence and information about the treatment. We included patients with a psychiatric disorder as the initial diagnosis. In a second part of the study conducted retrospectively in a followed subgroup, clinicians detailed the psychiatric history and we classified patients into three categories: (1) psychiatric symptoms associated with AD, (2) dual diagnosis and (3) cognitive decline not linked to a neurodegenerative disorder.

Results

Of 957 patients, 69 had an initial diagnosis of a psychiatric disorder. Among these 69 patients, 14 (20.2 %) had a CSF AD profile, 5 (7.2 %) presented with an intermediate CSF profile and 50 (72.4 %) had a non-AD CSF profile. Ultimately, 13 (18.8 %) patients were diagnosed with AD. We show that in the AD group psychiatric symptoms occurred later and the delay between the first psychiatric symptoms and the cognitive decline was shorter.

Conclusions

This study revealed that about 20 % of patients with a primary psychiatric disorder diagnosis before undergoing a CSF exploration for cognitive disorder displayed a CSF biomarker AD profile. In memory clinics, it seems important to consider AD as a possible diagnosis before finalizing a diagnosis of a psychiatric disorder.
Monocyte CD163 is altered in association with diabetic complications: possible protective role
Authors: Min Danqing , Brooks Belinda , Wong Jencia , Aamidor Sarah , Seehoo Rebecca , Sutanto Surya , Harrisberg Brian , Yue Dennis K , Twigg Stephen M , McLennan Susan V
Published: June 2016

The scavenger receptor CD163 is exclusively expressed by monocyte/macrophages and is shed by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and neutrophil elastase (ELA2) as soluble CD163 (sCD163). Monocyte phenotype is altered in diabetes, but the relationship among monocyte CD163, sCD163, and diabetic complications is not known and was investigated in this study. Blood was obtained from patients with diabetes for >10 yr and mice with diabetes for ≤20 wk. Blood from people and mice without diabetes acted as controls. The percentage of CD163+ monocytes and monocyte CD163 mRNA was determined by flow cytometry and qRT-PCR, respectively. Plasma sCD163, MMPs, and ELA2 were measured by ELISA. The ability of glucocorticoids to stimulate isolated monocyte CD163 expression was also investigated. The percentage of CD163+ monocytes was significantly decreased and sCD163 significantly increased (both P < 0.05) in patients with diabetes with complications compared to those without complications. Plasma ELA2 and MMP-3 were also increased (P < 0.05), but CD163 mRNA was unaltered. sCD163 correlated with worsening renal function, as determined by eGFR (r = −0.48, P < 0.05). In diabetic mice, increased sCD163 at wk 5 and decreased percentage of CD163+ monocytes at wk 10 preceded alteration in kidney collagen IV mRNA at wk 20 (all P < 0.05). In vitro incubation of monocytes in anti-inflammatory glucocorticoid increased the percentage of CD163+ monocytes (P < 0.05). In people, higher sCD163 and decreased percentage of CD163+ monocytes were consistent with increased monocyte activation and shedding. The murine data indicated that these changes preceded the development of diabetic complications. Taken together, these results suggest that higher circulating percentage of CD163+ monocytes may have anti-inflammatory effects and may protect from development of diabetic complications.
Discussions And Communications: War Efforts Advisory Committee
Authors: Lahee F. H.
Published: June 2016

At the annual meeting of the Society in Denver on April 24, 1942, a resolution proposed by B. B. Weatherby was unanimously adopted by those present as follows: Resolved, That the Society of Exploration Geophysicists cooperate fully in the War Effort of our country by aiding in every possible way the maintenance of an adequate exploration program and also further the placement of all available geophysical personnel in suitable positions with the armed forces and other governmental agencies; also that the Society render assistance to all geophysical laboratories and shops desiring to do work for the government and for these purposes a committcu be appointed by the President.
Errata List for Papers in Geophysics by James R. Walt
Authors: Walt James R.
Published: June 2016

I am herewith sending a list of typographical errors and omissions of several of my papers in Geophysics: “Transient Electromagnetic Propagation in a Conducting Medium” Vol. 16, pp. 213-222, 1951.
A GRAVITY INVESTIGATION OF A SULPHIDE DEPOSIT
Authors: GOETZ JOSEPH F.
Published: June 2016

The application of gravity methods to investigations of small-scale subsurface features has not yet paralleled large-scale structural investigations such as regional surveys and oil explorations. The problems involved in a gravity survey which searches for the location of an ore body, or some small structural feature, are mainly similar to those of the large-scale case, but they are possibly somewhat more difficult due to the size of the anomaly. When such small anomalies are involved, the geophysicist may often run into the difficulty that the errors in the work are of the same order as the expected anomaly. Despite other disturbing factors related to the topography and densities of the materials involved, gravity surveys carried out on local rather than on regional scales can be very important in the location of small structures and ore bodies.
Comments by the Associate Editor
Authors: Yarger H. L.
Published: June 2016

I have reviewed the paper on “The generalized gravity anomaly: Endoscopic microgravity” by J. Lakshmanan and the Discussion on this paper by J. D. MacQueen and T. R. LaFehr. I think some important questions are raised here which should be published along with the author's response. The Discussion raises three primary issues which I comment on below.
Programmed Death-1 Blockade With Pembrolizumab in Patients With Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma After Brentuximab Vedotin Failure
Authors: Armand Philippe , Shipp Margaret A. , Ribrag Vincent , Michot Jean-Marie , Zinzani Pier Luigi , Kuruvilla John , Snyder Ellen S. , Ricart Alejandro D. , Balakumaran Arun , Rose Shelonitda , Moskowitz Craig H.
Published: June 2016

Purpose

Classical Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) frequently exhibits genetic alterations leading to overexpression of the programmed death-1 (PD-1) ligands, suggesting a possible vulnerability to PD-1 blockade. The phase Ib study KEYNOTE-013 (NCT01953692) tested the safety and efficacy of the anti–PD-1 antibody pembrolizumab in patients with hematologic malignancies. Based on its genetics, HL was included as an independent cohort.

Methods

We enrolled patients with relapsed or refractory HL whose disease progressed on or after treatment with brentuximab vedotin. Patients received pembrolizumab, 10 mg/kg every 2 weeks, until disease progression occurred. Response to treatment was assessed at week 12 and every 8 weeks thereafter. Principal end points were safety and complete remission (CR) rate.

Results

Thirty-one patients were enrolled; 55% had more than four lines of prior therapy, and 71% had relapsed after autologous stem cell transplantation. Five patients (16%) experienced grade 3 drug-related adverse events (AEs); there were no grade 4 AEs or deaths related to treatment. The CR rate was 16% (90% CI, 7% to 31%). In addition, 48% of patients achieved a partial remission, for an overall response rate of 65% (90% CI, 48% to 79%). Most of the responses (70%) lasted longer than 24 weeks (range, 0.14+ to 74+ weeks), with a median follow-up of 17 months. The progression-free survival rate was 69% at 24 weeks and 46% at 52 weeks. Biomarker analyses demonstrated a high prevalence of PD-L1 and PD-L2 expression, treatment-induced expansion of T cells and natural killer cells, and activation of interferon-γ, T-cell receptor, and expanded immune-related signaling pathways.

Conclusions

Pembrolizumab was associated with a favorable safety profile. Pembrolizumab treatment induced favorable responses in a heavily pretreated patient cohort, justifying further studies.
Maternally Administered Cyclic Glycine-Proline Increases Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 Bioavailability and Novelty Recognition in Developing Offspring
Authors: Singh-Mallah Gagandeep , Singh Kuljeet , McMahon Christopher D. , Harris Paul , Brimble Margaret A. , Thorstensen Eric , Guan Jian
Published: June 2016

Cyclic glycine-proline (cGP), a metabolite of IGF-1, is an endogenous neuropeptide that improves memory in adult rats. The presence and concentrations of endogenous cGP, and its association with IGF-1 and IGF binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) in rat milk and plasma, were evaluated during postnatal development. Maternal-infantile transfer of cGP during lactation and its efficacy on the memory of developing offspring were also investigated. Dams were gavaged with either cGP (3 mg/kg) or saline daily from postnatal days 8–22. Concentrations of cGP were measured in dams' milk, and concentrations of cGP, IGF-1, and IGFBP-3 were measured in the plasma of dams, pups, and young adults. The recognition memory, locomotor function, and anxiety-like behavior of offspring were evaluated using behavioral tests. Endogenous cGP was detected in rat milk, and its concentration was higher during peak lactation compared with late lactation. Comparisons within control groups showed low endogenous IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 and high endogenous cGP concentrations in the plasma of male pups. The reduced IGFBP-3 and increased cGP may be a response to increase the bioavailability of IGF-1 during infancy. Exogenous cGP showed oral bioavailability and effective maternal-infantile transfer through milk. Maternally transferred cGP also led to improved recognition memory in the developing offspring, possibly through increased IGF-1 bioavailability, with no effect on locomotor activity and anxiety-like behavior. These results show that cGP is an essential endogenous peptide during early postnatal development as it improves the bioavailability of IGF-1 during infancy. Furthermore, maternal cGP supplementation offers an effective and natural route of administration for improving memory in the developing offspring.
Do Fiscal Rules Matter?
Authors: Grembi Veronica , Nannicini Tommaso , Troiano Ugo
Published: June 2016

Fiscal rules are laws aimed at reducing the incentive to accumulate debt, and many countries adopt them to discipline local governments. Yet, their effectiveness is disputed because of commitment and enforcement problems. We study their impact applying a quasi-experimental design in Italy. In 1999, the central government imposed fiscal rules on municipal governments, and in 2001 relaxed them below 5,000 inhabitants. We exploit the before/after and discontinuous policy variation, and show that relaxing fiscal rules increases deficits and lowers taxes. The effect is larger if the mayor can be reelected, the number of parties is higher, and voters are older. (JEL E62, H71, H72, H74, R51)
The S. pombe mRNA decapping complex recruits cofactors and an Edc1-like activator through a single dynamic surface
Authors: Wurm Jan Philip , Overbeck Jan , Sprangers Remco
Published: June 2016

The removal of the 5′ 7-methylguanosine mRNA cap structure (decapping) is a central step in the 5′–3′ mRNA degradation pathway and is performed by the Dcp1:Dcp2 decapping complex. The activity of this complex is tightly regulated to prevent premature degradation of the transcript. Here, we establish that the aromatic groove of the EVH1 domain of Schizosaccharomyces pombe Dcp1 can interact with proline-rich sequences in the exonuclease Xrn1, the scaffolding protein Pat1, the helicase Dhh1, and the C-terminal disordered region of Dcp2. We show that this region of Dcp1 can also recruit a previously unidentified enhancer of decapping protein (Edc1) and solved the crystal structure of the complex. NMR relaxation dispersion experiments reveal that the Dcp1 binding site can adopt multiple conformations, thus providing the plasticity that is required to accommodate different ligands. We show that the activator Edc1 makes additional contacts with the regulatory domain of Dcp2 and that an activation motif in Edc1 increases the RNA affinity of Dcp1:Dcp2. Our data support a model where Edc1 stabilizes the RNA in the active site, which results in enhanced decapping rates. In summary, we show that multiple decapping factors, including the Dcp2 C-terminal region, compete with Edc1 for Dcp1 binding. Our data thus reveal a network of interactions that can fine-tune the catalytic activity of the decapping complex.
Επικοινωνία καθηγητή–συμβούλου και φοιτητών στις σπουδές απο απόσταση: Απόψεις φοιτητών στο πλαίσιο της Θ.Ε.ΕΚΠ65 του Ε.Α.Π.
Authors: ΗΛΙΑΔΟΥ Χρυσούλα , ΑΝΑΣΤΑΣΙΑΔΗΣ Παναγιώτης
Published: June 2016

Η αμφίδρομη επικοινωνία μεταξύ φοιτητή και διδάσκοντα και το  καλά σχεδιασμένο εκπαιδευτικό υλικό  αποτελούν τους σημαντικότερους παράγοντες για την επιτυχία ενός προγράμματος εξΑΕ που στοχεύει στο να οδηγήσει τον εκπαιδευόμενο σε μία ευρετική πορεία της γνώσης.

Μέσω της αμφίδρομης επικοινωνίας ο διδάσκων διευκολύνει την αλληλεπίδραση και ενεργητική εμπλοκή του φοιτητή με το εκπαιδευτικό υλικό, κινητοποιεί το ενδιαφέρον του για εμβάθυνση στη μελέτη και συμβάλλει σημαντικά στη προσπάθεια του φοιτητή να διερευνήσει και να οικοδομήσει τις γνώσεις του. Επίσης, η ποιοτική επικοινωνία μεταξύ συμβούλου και φοιτητή λειτουργεί υποστηρικτικά με τη σαφή και επαρκή ανατροφοδότηση που πληροφορεί τον φοιτητή για την πρόοδό του και υπηρετεί τον εμψυχωτικό ρόλο του συμβούλου.

Σε αυτήν την εργασία παρουσιάζεται η έρευνα που διεξήχθη στους φοιτητές της Θεματικής ενότητας ΕΚΠ65 (Ανοικτή και εξ Αποστάσεως Εκπαίδευση) του Ε.Α.Π.  Σκοπός της ήταν να διερευνηθούν οι απόψεις των φοιτητών σχετικά με τη συχνότητα, το αντικείμενο και τους τρόπους επικοινωνίας με τον διδάσκοντα, καθώς και οι απόψεις τους για τη συνεισφορά της επικοινωνίας αυτής στην ολοκλήρωση των σπουδών τους. Μέσα από τις απαντήσεις τους, θα προσπαθήσουμε να ορίσουμε το πλαίσιο της αποτελεσματικής επικοινωνίας μεταξύ φοιτητή και Κ.Σ. και να συνθέσουμε το προφίλ του επιτυχημένου Κ.Σ. σύμφωνα με τη γνώμη των φοιτητών. 
Ο Ρόλος του Καθηγητή - Συμβούλου και η ανάπτυξη μηχανισμού υποστήριξής του στην εξ Αποστάσεως Εκπαίδευση
Authors: ΠΑΠΑΔΗΜΗΤΡΙΟΥ Σοφία , ΛΙΟΝΑΡΑΚΗΣ Αντώνης
Published: June 2016

Ο ρόλος του διδάσκοντα στην εξ αποστάσεως εκπαίδευση είναι πολύπλοκος, διαφορετικός από αυτόν του διδάσκοντα σ΄ ένα συμβατικό σύστημα εκπαίδευσης. Σ’ ένα περιβάλλον συνεργατικής μάθησης -στο πλαίσιο εμπλουτισμού της εκπαιδευτικής διαδικασίας- οι απαιτήσεις και ο εργασιακός φόρτος του διδάσκοντα θα πολλαπλασιαστούν. Η προσέγγιση του νέου ρόλου των διδασκόντων καθώς και ο σχεδιασμός και η ανάπτυξη ενός μηχανισμού υποστήριξης και ενθάρρυνσής τους είναι ο σκοπός της έρευνας, της οποίας το θεωρητικό υπόβαθρο θα παρουσιάσουμε σε αυτό το άρθρο. Στην πορεία της έρευνας θα αποτυπωθεί η υπάρχουσα κατάσταση της ευρύτερης περιοχής του ρόλου των διδασκόντων στην εξ αποστάσεως εκπαίδευση, θα οικοδομηθεί μηχανισμός υποστήριξης του πολύπλοκου ρόλου τους, θα αναπτυχθεί περιβάλλον συνεργατικής μάθησης και πρόσθετο πολυμορφικό εκπαιδευτικό υλικό. Ο ποιοτικός σχεδιασμός του περιβάλλοντος με στόχο την ενεργητική εμπλοκή των διδασκομένων στη διεργασία της μάθησης και η υποστήριξη της συνεργατικής μάθησης μέσα από την ανάπτυξη μιας κοινότητας αποτελούν άξονες της έρευνας που θα διεξαχθεί την επόμενη τριετία στο Ελληνικό Ανοικτό Πανεπιστήμιο.