bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bayesian statistical models to estimate EQ‐5D utility scores from EORTC QLQ data in myeloma
Authors: Kharroubi Samer A. , Edlin Richard , Meads David , McCabe Christopher
Published: February 2018

It is well documented that the modelling of health‐related quality of life data is difficult as the distribution of such data is often strongly right/left skewed and it includes a significant percentage of observations at one. The objective of this study is to develop a series of two‐part models (TPMs) that deal with these issues. Data from the UK Medical Research Council Myeloma IX trial were used to examine the relationship between the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) QLQ‐C30/QLQ‐MY20 scores and the European QoL‐5 Dimensions (EQ‐5D) utility score. Four different TPMs were developed. The models fitted included TPM with normal regression, TPM with normal regression with variance a function of participant characteristics, TPM with log‐transformed data, and TPM with gamma regression and a log link. The cohort of 1839 patients was divided into 75% derivation sample, to fit the different models, and 25% validation sample to assess the predictive ability of these models by comparing predicted and observed mean EQ‐5D scores in the validation set, unadjusted R2, and root mean square error. Predictive performance in the derivation dataset depended on the criterion used, with R2/adjusted‐R2 favouring the TPM with normal regression and mean predicted error favouring the TPM with gamma regression. The TPM with gamma regression performs best within the validation dataset under all criteria. TPM regression models provide flexible approaches to estimate mean EQ‐5D utility weights from the EORTC QLQ‐C30/QLQ‐MY20 for use in economic evaluation.
Estimates of flow‐dependent predictability of wintertime Euro‐Atlantic weather regimes in medium‐range forecasts
Authors: Matsueda Mio , Palmer T. N.
Published: February 2018

This study assesses the medium‐range flow‐dependent forecast skill of Euro‐Atlantic weather regimes: the positive and negative phases of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO+ and NAO−), Atlantic ridge (ATLR), and Euro‐Atlantic blocking (EABL), for extended winters (November–March) in the periods 2006/2007–2013/2014 and 1985/1986–2013/2014 using The Interactive Grand Global Ensemble (TIGGE) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)'s Global Ensemble Forecasting System (GEFS) reforecast datasets, respectively. The models show greater‐than‐observed (smaller‐than‐observed) frequencies of NAO− and ATLR (NAO+) with forecast lead time. The increased frequency of NAO− is not due to its excess persistence but due to more frequent transitions mainly from ATLR, but also from NAO+. In turn, NAO+ is under‐persistent. The models show the highest probabilistic skill for forecasts initialised on NAO− and the NAO− forecasts during the TIGGE period. However, the GEFS reforecast during the period 1985/1986–2013/2014 revealed that these recent high skills reflect the occurrence of four long‐lasting (>30 days) NAO− events in 2009/2010–2013/2014 and that the skill for forecasts initialised on NAO− before 2009/2010 (the longest duration was 22 days and the second‐longest 16 days) was the lowest. The longer the NAO− events persist, the higher the skill of forecasts initialised on NAO−. The skill dependency on regime duration is less clearly observed for the other regimes. In addition, the GEFS reforecast also revealed that the highest skill of the NAO− forecasts during the period 1985/1986–2013/2014 is attributed to the higher skill of the NAO− forecasts during the active NAO− periods. The EABL forecasts initialised on ATLR show the lowest skill, followed by the NAO− (EABL) forecasts initialised on NAO+ or ATLR (NAO+). These results suggest that the recent models still have difficulties in predicting the onset of blocking.
Parameter estimation for bivariate Weibull distribution using generalized moment method for reliability evaluation
Authors: Yuan Fuqing
Published: February 2018

Bivariate Weibull distribution can address the life of a system exhibiting 2‐dimensional characteristics in risk and reliability engineering. The applicability of bivariate Weibull distribution has been hindered by its difficulty with parameter estimation, as the number of parameters in bivariate Weibull distribution is more than those in univariate Weibull distribution. Considering a particular structure of a bivariate Weibull distribution model, this paper proposes a generalized moment method (GMM) for parameter estimation. This GMM method is simple, and it has proved to be efficient. The GMM can guarantee the existence and the uniqueness of the solution. A confidence interval for each estimator is derived from the moments of the bivariate distribution. The paper presents a simulation case and 2 real cases to demonstrate the proposed methods.
A novel rotational matrix and translation vector algorithm: geometric accuracy for augmented reality in oral and maxillofacial surgeries
Authors: Murugesan Yahini Prabha , Alsadoon Abeer , Manoranjan Paul , Prasad P.W.C.
Published: February 2018

Background

Augmented reality‐based surgeries have not been successfully implemented in oral and maxillofacial areas due to limitations in geometric accuracy and image registration. This paper aims to improve the accuracy and depth perception of the augmented video.

Methodology

The proposed system consists of a rotational matrix and translation vector algorithm to reduce the geometric error and improve the depth perception by including 2 stereo cameras and a translucent mirror in the operating room.

Results

The results on the mandible/maxilla area show that the new algorithm improves the video accuracy by 0.30–0.40 mm (in terms of overlay error) and the processing rate to 10–13 frames/s compared to 7–10 frames/s in existing systems. The depth perception increased by 90–100 mm.

Conclusion

The proposed system concentrates on reducing the geometric error. Thus, this study provides an acceptable range of accuracy with a shorter operating time, which provides surgeons with a smooth surgical flow.
Robot‐assisted vs freehand pedicle screw fixation in spine surgery – a systematic review and a meta‐analysis of comparative studies
Authors: Yu Lingjia , Chen Xi , Margalit Adam , Peng Huiming , Qiu Guixing , Qian Wenwei
Published: February 2018

Background

Medical robotics has progressively become more compelling in modern orthopaedic surgery. Several studies comparing robot‐assisted (RA) and freehand (FH) conventional techniques for pedicle screw fixation have been published, but the results are unclear. Here, we assessed current evidence regarding the efficiency, safety and accuracy of RA compared with FH techniques.

Methods

A literature search of PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library and Web of Science was performed to compare the differences between RA and FH in spine surgery. Two reviewers independently reviewed included studies, conducted a risk of bias assessment, and extracted data.

Results

Three randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and six retrospective comparative studies included a total of 750 patients (3625 pedicle screws). No significant differences were noted between RA and FH in pedicle screw accuracy (95.5% compared with 92.9%; odds ratio: 1.35; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.55 to 3.30; P=0.51), overall complication rate (1.33% compared with 3.45%; odds ratio: 0.46; 95% CI, 0.15 to 1.43; P=0.18) and radiation exposure time (weighted mean difference [WMD]:8.49; 95% CI, –15.43 to 32.40; P=0.49). While RA was associated with a longer operative time (WMD: 39.63; 95% CI, 5.27 to 73.99; P= 0.02), percutaneous or minimal robot‐assisted pedicle screw fixation (M‐RA) had a shorter radiation exposure time than FH (WMD: –33.10; 95% CI, –38.18 to –28.02; P=0.00)

Conclusions

The current literature did not prove that RA supersedes FH, although several studies are more optimistic about this procedure. Future well‐designed RCTs assessing RA and FH are needed to confirm and update the findings of this analysis.
A Bayesian semiparametric Markov regression model for juvenile dermatomyositis
Authors: De Iorio Maria , Gallot Natacha , Valcarcel Beatriz , Wedderburn Lucy
Published: February 2018

Juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) is a rare autoimmune disease that may lead to serious complications, even to death. We develop a 2‐state Markov regression model in a Bayesian framework to characterise disease progression in JDM over time and gain a better understanding of the factors influencing disease risk. The transition probabilities between disease and remission state (and vice versa) are a function of time‐homogeneous and time‐varying covariates. These latter types of covariates are introduced in the model through a latent health state function, which describes patient‐specific health over time and accounts for variability among patients. We assume a nonparametric prior based on the Dirichlet process to model the health state function and the baseline transition intensities between disease and remission state and vice versa. The Dirichlet process induces a clustering of the patients in homogeneous risk groups. To highlight clinical variables that most affect the transition probabilities, we perform variable selection using spike and slab prior distributions. Posterior inference is performed through Markov chain Monte Carlo methods. Data were made available from the UK JDM Cohort and Biomarker Study and Repository, hosted at the UCL Institute of Child Health.
Modeling of Precipitation Behavior of Complex Precipitates in Ferrite and Validation with Experiment
Authors: Yang Yong , Li Tian Rui , Jia Tao , Wang Zhao Dong , Misra Raja Devesh Kumar
Published: February 2018

Based on solid solution theory, mass conservation law and classical nucleation, growth and coarsening theory, a thermo/kinetic model is developed to predict the precipitation behavior of complex precipitates in Nb‐V bearing steel. The equilibrium composition of matrix and precipitates is calculated by the thermodynamic model and is input in the kinetic model to calculate the driving force for precipitation at a given temperature. The diffusivity and concentration of alloying elements is considered in the entire precipitation process. The effect of interfacial energy of precipitates and activation energy on precipitation behavior are studied. Simulation results indicate that the interfacial energy plays a significant role in the entire process of precipitation and there is no overlap between nucleation and coarsening when the interfacial energy is in the range of 0.5–0.55 Jm−2. The mean particle diameter predicted by the proposed model is compared with the experimental results and a good agreement was obtained.
Stream mitigation banking
Authors: Lave Rebecca
Published: February 2018

Compensatory mitigation (also known as offsetting) is the practice of allowing harm to one ecosystem as long as a comparable ecosystem elsewhere is restored. This common practice is intended to balance the competing demands of economic development and environmental protection. Here, I explore compensatory mitigation through a focus on one particular type: stream mitigation banking in the United States under the Clean Water Act, a market‐based form of environmental management. I explain the motivations for compensating for rather than preventing environmental damage more broadly, the practice of stream mitigation banking, and what we know about its environmental and social impacts. I conclude by calling out the stakes in offsetting more generally, and in stream mitigation banking in particular, arguing that neither market‐based environmental management nor offsetting more generally may be serving us well.

This article is categorized under:

Engineering Water > Planning Water

Human Water > Value of Water

Water and Life > Conservation, Management, and Awareness
Syntheses of Transition Metal Complexes of Pentafluorophenylhydrazine
Authors: Rieber Wolfram , Beck Wolfgang
Published: February 2018

By reaction of pentafluorophenylhydrazine with metal chlorides the complexes M(NH2NHC6F5)4Cl2 (M = Co, Ni), M(NH2NHC6F5)2Cl2 (M = Mn, Fe, Pd, Zn, Cd), Cu(NH2NHC6F5)Cl, and Hg(NH2NHC6F5)2Cl were obtained. From Cr(CO)6 and pentafluorophenylhydrazine the complex Cr(CO)5(NH2NHC6F5) was synthesized.
Human and Machine Learning
Authors: Kao Ying-Fang , Venkatachalam Ragupathy
Published: February 2018

In this paper, we consider learning by human beings and machines in the light of Herbert Simon’s pioneering contributions to the theory of Human Problem Solving. Using board games of perfect information as a paradigm, we explore differences in human and machine learning in complex strategic environments. In doing so, we contrast theories of learning in classical game theory with computational game theory proposed by Simon. Among theories that invoke computation, we make a further distinction between computable and computational or machine learning theories. We argue that the modern machine learning algorithms, although impressive in terms of their performance, do not necessarily shed enough light on human learning. Instead, they seem to take us further away from Simon’s lifelong quest to understand the mechanics of actual human behaviour.
Long-term Mortality After Revision THA
Authors: Yao Jie J , Maradit Kremers Hilal , Abdel Matthew P. , Larson Dirk R. , Ransom Jeanine E. , Berry Daniel J. , Lewallen David G.
Published: February 2018

Background

Long-term mortality after primary THA is lower than in the general population, but it is unknown whether this is also true after revision THA.

Questions/Purposes

We examined (1) long-term mortality according to reasons for revision after revision THA, and (2) relative mortality trends by age at surgery, years since surgery, and calendar year of surgery.

Methods

This retrospective study included 5417 revision THAs performed in 4532 patients at a tertiary center between 1969 and 2011. Revision THAs were grouped by surgical indication in three categories: periprosthetic joint infections (938; 17%); fractures (646; 12%); and loosening, bearing wear, or dislocation (3833; 71%). Patients were followed up until death or December 31, 2016. The observed number of deaths in the revision THA cohort was compared with the expected number of deaths using standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) and Poisson regression models. The expected number of deaths was calculated assuming that the study cohort had the same calendar year, age, and sex-specific mortality rates as the United States general population.

Results

The overall age- and sex-adjusted mortality was slightly higher than the general population mortality (SMR, 1.09; 95% CI, 1.05-1.13; p < 0.001). There were significant differences across the three surgical indication subgroups. Compared with the general population mortality, patients who underwent revision THA for infection (SMR, 1.35; 95% CI, 1.24-1.48; p < 0.001) and fractures (SMR, 1.23; 95% CI, 1.11-1.37; p < 0.001) had significantly increased risk of death. Patients who underwent revision THA for aseptic loosening, wear, or dislocation had a mortality risk similar to that of the general population (SMR, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.96-1.06; p = 0.647). The relative mortality risk was highest in younger patients and declined with increasing age at surgery. Although the relative mortality risk among patients with aseptic indications was lower than that of the general population during the first year of surgery, the risk increased with time and got worse than that of the general population after approximately 8 to 10 years after surgery. Relative mortality risk improved with time after revision THA for aseptic loosening, wear, or dislocation.

Conclusions

Shifting mortality patterns several years after surgery and the excess mortality after revision THA for periprosthetic joint infections and fractures reinforce the need for long-term followup, not only for implant survival but overall health of patients having THA.

Level of Evidence

Level III, therapeutic study
Characterization of a breakup in couples of university students: Differences in cognitive assessment of the event
Authors: Barajas Márquez Miriam Wendolyn , Cruz del Castillo Cinthia , Fuentes Balderrama Jaime
Published: February 2018

The aim of this investigation was to analyze differences between young people who had a positive assessment of breakups and those who hada negative assessment, divided in turn by gender, in relation to the following variables: level of importance, level of commitment, duration ofrelationship, ways of loving, reasons for breaking up, coping styles, and level of depression resulting from the breakup. To that end, we conductedStudent t tests with each of the variables involved. 326 university students age 17–26 (122 men and 204 women) who had recently gone through abreakup in their sentimental relationships participated in the study. Differences were found between women who assessed their breakups positivelyand those who assessed them negatively in relation to level of importance, level of commitment, duration of relationship, lack of sex drive, lackof commitment, rational incompatibility, in evasive coping styles, cognitive-reflexive analysis, ludic loving style, and total level of depression. Inthe case of men, differences were also found for level of importance, level of commitment, and coping styles: evasive, cognitive-reflexive analysis,and denial.© 2018 Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Asociación Mexicana de Comportamiento y Salud. This is an open access article under theCC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).
Anthropometric Prediction of Visceral Adipose Tissue in Persons With Motor Complete Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: McCauley Liron S. , Sumrell Ryan M. , Gorgey Ashraf S.
Published: February 2018

Background

Spinal cord injury (SCI) results in increased accumulation of visceral adipose tissue (VAT). Anthropometrics may provide an alternative to estimate VAT cross‐section area (CSA) compared to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Objective

To validate the use of anthropometrics, including abdominal circumference and skinfold thickness (SFT) measurements against MRI to predict subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) and VAT cross‐sectional areas in persons with SCI.

Design

Cross‐sectional.

Setting

Clinical research center

Participant

Twenty‐two men with motor complete SCI

Methods

Anthropometric measurements and MRI were taken during a single visit. Abdominal circumference and SFT were used to derive prediction equations for subcutaneous adipose tissue (SATAnthro‐CSA) and VAT (VATAnthro‐CSA). Three‐axial MRI at the level of umbilicus was used to establish the prediction equations. VATAnthro‐CSA was compared against body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and SFT. Bland‐Altman plots were used to determine limits of agreement between prediction equations and MRI.

Main Outcome Measurements

SAT and VAT cross‐sectional areas.

Results

SATAnthro‐CSA explained 76% of the variance in SAT cross‐sectional area (r2 = 0.76, standard error of the estimate [SEE] = 49.5 cm2, P <.001). VATAnthro‐CSA explained 72% of VAT cross‐sectional area (r2 = 0.72, SEE = 45.8 cm2, P <.001). Compared to VATAnthro‐CSA, BMI, waist circumference, and SFT explained only 37%, 63%, and 31%, respectively, in the variance of VAT MRI.

Conclusion

Abdominal circumference and SFT demonstrated an alternative way to predict VAT CSA. VATAnthro‐CSA estimated VATMRI more accurately than BMI, waist circumference, and SFT in individuals with chronic SCI.

Level of Evidence

I
Sociotechnical Obstacles to Archaeological Data Reuse
Authors: Sobotkova Adela
Published: February 2018

The ease of digital data capture and the proliferation of concepts such as the “data deluge” suggest that modern researchers are drowning in datasets. Yet citations of archaeological datasets are few and far between, pointing to low rates of data reuse. This article explores the difficulties that surround data reuse in large-scale regional research, including the cost and coordination necessary to extract useful data from digitized PDF reports. The amount of correction and enhancement matches the effort needed to undertake a small field survey project and can only be circumvented with a thoughtful application of computer-assisted text analysis. Missing data in excavation report PDFs are not only intractable but also insidious due to their concealed nature, leading to poor outcomes in terms of (re)use. Consequently, the degree of data reuse in archaeology has been overestimated.
Complexity of factors influencing the spatiotemporal distribution of archaeological settlements in northeast China over the past millennium
Authors: Jia Dan , Li Yikai , Fang Xiuqi
Published: February 2018

Relic archeological settlement is used to indicate the development of agriculture. We extracted 8865 relic archeological settlements from theAtlas of Chinese Cultural Relicsto analyze how the spatiotemporal distribution of archaeological settlements was influenced by temperature changes and social factors during the last millennium. During the Liao dynasty (AD 916–1125) and Jin dynasty (AD 1115–1234) in the Medieval Warm Period (MWP), a large number of settlements indicated the development of agriculture as far north as 47°N. The warm climate of the MWP provided sufficient heat resources to promote the implication of positive policies of the Liao and Jin dynasties to develop agriculture and settlements. By contrast, during the dynasties of Yuan (AD 1279–1368), Ming (AD 1368–1644), and Qing (AD 1644–1911) in the Little Ice Age (LIA), the number of settlements declined drastically, and the northern boundary of the settlement distribution retreated by 3–4 degrees of latitude to modern Liaoning Province. Although the southward retreat of the settlements and related agriculture occurred in the cold climate of the LIA, it could not be completely explained by the drop in temperature. Social factors including nomadic customs, ethnic policies, and postal road systems played more important roles to the northern boundaries of the settlement distributions during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties.
Olive cultivar and maturation process on the oviposition preference ofBactrocera oleae(Rossi) (Diptera: Tephritidae)
Authors: Malheiro R. , Casal S. , Pinheiro L. , Baptista P. , Pereira J.A.
Published: February 2018

The olive fly,Bactrocera oleae(Rossi) (Diptera: Tephritidae), is a key-pest in the main olives producing areas worldwide, and displays distinct preference to different olive cultivars. The present work intended to study oviposition preference towards three Portuguese cultivars (Cobrançosa, Madural, and Verdeal Transmontana) at different maturation indexes. Multiple oviposition bioassays (multiple-choice and no-choice) were conducted to assess cultivar preference. No-choice bioassays were conducted to assess the influence of different maturation indexes (MI 2; MI 3, and MI 4) in single cultivars. The longevity of olive fly adults according to the cultivar in which its larvae developed was also evaluated through survival assays.

Cultivar and maturation are crucial aspects in olive fly preference. Field and laboratory assays revealed a preference towards cv. Verdeal Transmontana olives and a lower susceptibility to cv. Cobrançosa olives. A higher preference was observed for olives at MI 2 and MI 3. The slower maturation process in cv. Verdeal Transmontana (still green while the other cultivars are reddish or at black stage) seems to have an attractive effect on olive fly females, thus increasing its infestation levels. Olive fly adults from both sexes live longer if emerged from pupae developed from cv. Verdeal Transmontana fruits and live less if emerged from cv. Cobrançosa. Therefore, olive cultivar and maturation process are crucial aspects in olive fly preference, also influencing the longevity of adults.
Innate immunity and environmental correlates ofHaemoproteusprevalence and intensity in an opportunistic breeder
Authors: Schultz Elizabeth M. , Cornelius Jamie M. , Reichard Dustin G. , Klasing Kirk C. , Hahn Thomas P.
Published: February 2018

While parasite infection can have substantial fitness consequences in organisms, the predictors of parasite prevalence and intensity are often complex and vary depending on the host species. Here, we examined correlates ofHaemoproteus(a common malaria parasite) prevalence and intensity in an opportunistically breeding songbird, the red crossbill (Loxia curvirostra). Specifically, we quantifiedHaemoproteusprevalence and intensity in crossbills caught in the Grand Teton National Park from 2010 to 2013. We found that parasite prevalence varies seasonally and across years, with the highest number of infected individuals occurring in the summer, although there was variation across summers sampled, and that prevalence was positively related to annual mean cone crop sizes (a measure of crossbill food abundance) and daily ambient temperature (a correlate of vector abundance). Parasite intensity was significantly and positively related to one measure of innate immunity, leucocyte counts per blood volume. Finally, neither crossbill age, ecomorph, nor sex had significant effects on parasite infection intensity; however, parasite prevalence did significantly vary among ecomorph and age classes. These results support the interpretation that a combination of physiological (specifically immune activity) and environmental factors affects parasite prevalence and infection intensity in this opportunistically breeding avian species.
Effects of mother's and father's education level and age at migration on children's bilingual vocabulary
Authors: WESTEREN INGELIN , HALBERG ANNE-MARIE , LEDESMA HELOISE MARIE , WOLD ASTRI HEEN , OPPEDAL BRIT
Published: February 2018

The present study addressed important gaps in the research literature on bilingual development by examining the effects of both mother's and father's education level and age at migration on children's bilingual vocabulary in two different age groups. The sample included 81 preschoolers and 92 preadolescents with two Turkish immigrant parents living in Norway. The children were born in Norway, or migrated to Norway before/at the age of 3. The children completed Norwegian and Turkish vocabulary tests during home visits while mothers provided information regarding both parents’ education and age at migration in structured interviews. Results from hierarchical regression analyses showed that father's education significantly predicted all children's majority (Norwegian) vocabulary scores while mother's education significantly predicted majority vocabulary scores in the preschoolers. Father's education significantly predicted minority (Turkish) vocabulary scores among the preadolescents. Mother's, but not father's, age at migration significantly predicted preschoolers' majority vocabulary scores and preadolescents' minority vocabulary. Hence, the parental background variables predicted minority vocabulary scores only among the preadolescents, not the preschoolers. We conclude that mothers and fathers influence the minority and majority language skills of their bilingual children differently and that their influence varies depending on the age of the child.
Do single or multiple deficit models predict the risk of dyslexia in Standard Indonesian?
Authors: BORLEFFS ELISABETH , JAP BERNARD A. J. , NASUTION INDRI K. , ZWARTS FRANS , MAASSEN BEN A. M.
Published: February 2018

Although our understanding of reading acquisition has grown, the study of dyslexia in Standard Indonesian (SI) is still in its infancy. A recently developed assessment battery for young readers of SI was used to test the feasibility of Pennington et al.’s (2012) multiple-case approach to dyslexia in the highly transparent orthography of SI. Reading, spelling, phonological skills, and nonverbal IQ were assessed in 285 first, second, and third graders. Deficits in reading-related cognitive skills were classified and regression analyses were conducted to test the fit of single and multiple deficit models. Naming speed (NS) was the main predictor of reading and decoding fluency, followed by phonological awareness (PA), and verbal working memory (VWM). Accounting for 33% of the cases that satisfied both methods of individual prediction (i.e., classification of deficits and regression analysis), the hybrid model proved the best fit. None of the deficits in PA, NS, or VWM alone was sufficient to predict a risk of dyslexia in the present sample, nor was a deficit in PA necessary. Hence, there are multiple pathways to being at risk of dyslexia in SI, some involving single deficits, some multiple deficits, and some without deficits in PA, NS, or VWM.
Fourteen-month-olds’ sensitivity to acoustic salience in minimal pair word learning
Authors: ARCHER Stephanie L. , CURTIN Suzanne
Published: February 2018

During the first two years of life, infants concurrently refine native-language speech categories and word learning skills. However, in the Switch Task, 14-month-olds do not detect minimal contrasts in a novel object–word pairing (Stager & Werker, 1997). We investigate whether presenting infants with acoustically salient contrasts (liquids) facilitates success in the Switch Task. The first two experiments demonstrate that acoustic differences boost infants’ detection of contrasts. However, infants cannot detect the contrast when the segments are digitally shortened. Thus, not all minimal contrasts are equally difficult, and the acoustic properties of a contrast matter in word learning.
When regularization gets it wrong: children over-simplify language input only in production
Authors: SCHWAB Jessica F. , LEW-WILLIAMS Casey , GOLDBERG Adele E.
Published: February 2018

Children tend to regularize their productions when exposed to artificial languages, an advantageous response to unpredictable variation. But generalizations in natural languages are typically conditioned by factors that children ultimately learn. In two experiments, adult and six-year-old learners witnessed two novel classifiers, probabilistically conditioned by semantics. Whereas adults displayed high accuracy in their productions – applying the semantic criteria to familiar and novel items – children were oblivious to the semantic conditioning. Instead, children regularized their productions, over-relying on only one classifier. However, in a two-alternative forced-choice task, children's performance revealed greater respect for the system's complexity: they selected both classifiers equally, without bias toward one or the other, and displayed better accuracy on familiar items. Given that natural languages are conditioned by multiple factors that children successfully learn, we suggest that their tendency to simplify in production stems from retrieval difficulty when a complex system has not yet been fully learned.
Human visceral leishmaniasis: factors associated with deaths in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais state, Brazil from 2006 to 2013
Authors: Bruhn F. R. P. , Morais M. H. F. , Bruhn N. C. P. , Cardoso D. L. , Ferreira F. , Rocha C. M. B. M.
Published: February 2018

The aim of this study was to evaluate the distribution of cases and the social determinants associated with death from human visceral leishmaniasis (HVL) and VL–HIV co-infection in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais state, Brazil, between 2006 and 2013. Descriptive statistics and analysis of associations were performed using chi-square of the raised variables, such as sex, age, skin colour and schooling of cases of HVL. During the study period, there were 866 cases of HVL with 111 deaths in Belo Horizonte. Morbidity and lethality rates (LR) of HVL in Belo Horizonte remained high over almost all the years evaluated, with an average incidence rate of 4.18 cases/100 000 inhabitants and a LR of 11.16%. With respect to skin colour, it was found that people characterised as black or mulatto had higher morbidity, followed by white. Regarding schooling, LR was more prevalent among individuals with lower education. One of the social risk factors was co-infection with HIV, which was present in many cases of HVL. Furthermore, it was found that older age and the male sex were also risk factors for death from HVL in Belo Horizonte.
A Novel Treatment Protocol (Nocebo Hypothesis Cognitive Behavioural Therapy; NH-CBT) for Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder/Conversion Disorder: A Retrospective Consecutive Case Series
Authors: Richardson Matt , Isbister Gina , Nicholson Brad
Published: February 2018

Background: Theories concerning the aetiology of functional neurological symptom disorder (FNSD; also known as conversion disorder) have historically inferred that psychological factors or dissociative states underlie patients’ symptoms. Current psychological models of functional neurological symptoms suggest that some type of ‘top-down’ representations/beliefs are activated automatically (without conscious awareness), leading to symptoms. It is assumed that these representations or beliefs are similar to the idea ‘I am neurologically damaged’, as in our clinical experience, almost all patients have some reason to doubt the integrity of their neurological system. Aims: It was hypothesized that FNSD arises from a belief of being neurologically damaged (via a mechanism akin to a nocebo response), and an interdisciplinary treatment protocol was developed consistent with this hypothesis, transparently sharing this theory with participants. Method: A retrospective consecutive case series design was utilized, measuring functional independence and symptom remission. Results: Of the 13 episodes of care, 12 resulted in complete or almost complete symptom remission. Length of stay in rehabilitation was also reduced compared with previous treatment attempts. Conclusions: It appears as if the treatment protocol may be very effective, and further controlled study appears warranted.
Correction: Author Correction: Amazonian forest-savanna bistability and human impact
Authors: Wuyts Bert , Champneys Alan R. , House Joanna I.
Published: February 2018

Nature Communications 8: Article number: 15519 (2017); Published: 30 May 2017; Updated: 21 February 2018 In the originally published version of this Article, reference 23 did not refer to the correct paper. This error has now been corrected in both the HTML and PDF versions of the Article.
G-protein βγ subunits determine grain size through interaction with MADS-domain transcription factors in rice
Authors: Liu Qian , Han Ruixi , Wu Kun , Zhang Jianqing , Ye Yafeng , Wang Shuansuo , Chen Jianfeng , Pan Yajun , Li Qi , Xu Xiaopeng , Zhou Jiawu , Tao Dayun , Wu Yuejin , Fu Xiangdong
Published: February 2018

The simultaneous improvement of grain quality and yield of cereal crops is a major challenge for modern agriculture. Here we show that a rice grain yield quantitative trait locus qLGY3 encodes a MADS-domain transcription factor OsMADS1, which acts as a key downstream effector of G-protein βγ dimers. The presence of an alternatively spliced protein OsMADS1lgy3 is shown to be associated with formation of long and slender grains, resulting in increases in both grain quality and yield potential of rice. The Gγ subunits GS3 and DEP1 interact directly with the conserved keratin-like domain of MADS transcription factors, function as cofactors to enhance OsMADS1 transcriptional activity and promote the co-operative transactivation of common target genes, thereby regulating grain size and shape. We also demonstrate that combining OsMADS1
lgy3
allele with high-yield-associated dep1-1 and gs3 alleles represents an effective strategy for simultaneously improving both the productivity and end-use quality of rice.
Immunologic targeting of CD30 eliminates tumourigenic human pluripotent stem cells, allowing safer clinical application of hiPSC-based cell therapy
Authors: Sougawa Nagako , Miyagawa Shigeru , Fukushima Satsuki , Kawamura Ai , Yokoyama Junya , Ito Emiko , Harada Akima , Okimoto Kaori , Mochizuki-Oda Noriko , Saito Atsuhiro , Sawa Yoshiki
Published: February 2018

Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are promising candidate cells for cardiomyogenesis in the failing heart. However, teratoma/tumour formation originating from undifferentiated iPSCs contaminating the graft is a critical concern for clinical application. Here, we hypothesized that brentuximab vedotin, which targets CD30, induces apoptosis in tumourigenic cells, thus increasing the safety of iPSC therapy for heart failure. Flow cytometry analysis identified consistent expression of CD30 in undifferentiated human iPSCs. Addition of brentuximab vedotin in vitro for 72 h efficiently induced cell death in human iPSCs, associated with a significant increase in G2/M phase cells. Brentuximab vedotin significantly reduced Lin28 expression in cardiomyogenically differentiated human iPSCs. Transplantation of human iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes (CMs) without treatment into NOG mice consistently induced teratoma/tumour formation, with a substantial number of Ki-67–positive cells in the graft at 4 months post-transplant, whereas iPSC-derived CMs treated with brentuximab vedotin prior to the transplantation did not show teratoma/tumour formation, which was associated with absence of Ki-67–positive cells in the graft over the same period. These findings suggest that in vitro treatment with brentuximab vedotin, targeting the CD30-positive iPSC fraction, reduced tumourigenicity in human iPSC-derived CMs, potentially providing enhanced safety for iPSC-based cardiomyogenesis therapy in clinical scenarios.
Analysis of strain distribution, migratory potential, and invasion history of fall armyworm populations in northern Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Nagoshi Rodney N. , Goergen Georg , Tounou Kodjo Agbeko , Agboka Komi , Koffi Djima , Meagher Robert L.
Published: February 2018

Fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda J.E. Smith) is a noctuid moth pest endemic throughout the Western Hemisphere that has recently become widespread in sub-Saharan Africa. There is a strong expectation of significant damage to African maize crop yield and a high likelihood of further dispersal, putting the rest of the Eastern Hemisphere at risk. Specimens from multiple locations in six countries spanning the northern portion of the infested region were analyzed for genetic markers. The similarity of haplotypes between the African collections was consistent with a common origin, but significant differences in the relative frequency of the haplotypes indicated limitations in migration. The mitochondrial marker frequently used to identify two host strains appears to be compromised, making uncertain previous reports that both strains are present in Africa. This more extensive study confirmed initial indications based on Togo populations that Florida and the Greater Antilles are the likely source of at least a subset of the African infestation and further suggest an entry point in western Africa. The origin of a second subgroup is less clear as it was rarely found in the collections and has a haplotype that has not yet been observed in the Western Hemisphere.
Relaxation dynamics of generalized scale-free polymer networks
Authors: Jurjiu Aurel , Gomes Maia Júnior Deuticilam , Galiceanu Mircea
Published: February 2018

We focus on treelike generalized scale-free polymer networks, whose geometries depend on a parameter,γ, that controls their connectivity and on two modularity parameters: the minimum allowed degree,Kmin, and the maximum allowed degree,Kmax. We monitor the influence of these parameters on the static and dynamic properties of the achieved generalized scale-free polymer networks. The relaxation dynamics is studied in the framework of generalized Gaussian structures model by employing the Rouse-type approach. The dynamical quantities on which we focus are the average monomer displacement under external forces and the mechanical relaxation moduli (storage and loss modulus), while for the static and structure properties of these networks we concentrate on the eigenvalue spectrum, diameter, and degree correlations. Depending on the values of network’s parameters we were able to switch between distinct hyperbranched structures: networks with more linearlike segments or with a predominant star or dendrimerlike topology. We have observed a stronger influence onKminthan onKmax. In the intermediate time (frequency) domain, all physical quantities obey power-laws for polymer networks withγ = 2.5 andKmin = 2 and we prove additionally that for networks withγ ≥ 2.5 new regions with constant slope emerge by a proper choice ofKmin. Remarkably, we show that for certain values of the parameter set one may obtain self-similar networks.
Multicenter cohort-study of 15326 cases analyzing patient satisfaction and perioperative pain management: general, regional and combination anesthesia in knee arthroplasty
Authors: Greimel Felix , Maderbacher Guenther , Baier Clemens , Keshmiri Armin , Schwarz Timo , Zeman Florian , Meissner Winfried , Grifka Joachim , Benditz Achim
Published: February 2018

Numbers of knee replacement surgeries have been rising over the past years. After having ameliorated operation techniques and material, pain management and anesthetic methods have come into focus. All 15326 patients included had undergone primary knee arthroplasty within this multicenter cohort-study, conducted in 46 orthopedic departments. Parameters were evaluated on first postoperative day. Primary outcome values were pain levels (activity, minimum and maximum pain, and pain management satisfaction). Pain medication necessity was analyzed. Parameters were compared between the types of anesthesia used: general, regional and combination anesthesia. Pain scores and pain management satisfaction were significantly better in the groups of either spinal or peripheral anesthesia combined with general anesthesia (p < 0.001, respectively). Patients who received the combination of general and spinal anesthesia were associated with the lowest need for opioids (p < 0.001). The use of a combined general and spinal anesthesia as well as using a combination of general and peripheral anesthesia in knee arthroplasty was associated with a highly significant advantage to other anesthetic techniques regarding perioperative pain management in daily clinical practice, but maybe below clinical relevance. Furthermore they were associated with positive tendency considering side effects and subjective well-being parameters.
Pharmacovigilance for Authorised Human Medicinal Products in the European Union
Authors: Edwards Brian D. , Gandhi Shelley
Published: February 2018

The medicines environment has changed substantially over the last 50 years, with increased globalisation moving away from dependency on the traditional markets of the USA, European Union and Japan. Products are now being introduced into different markets almost simultaneously. This means we need to be even more efficient in our collection and management of data about the benefit and risk of medicines throughout the product lifecycle. Systems and processes need to be robust and transparent to support the fundamentals of ensuring good quality specifications. Standardisation of the collection of data is important so that it can be applied anywhere. As of July 2012, new European Union Pharmacovigilance Legislation was introduced based on Regulation (EU) 1235/2010 and Directive 2010/84/EU. The aim is to collect the best evidence, which has to be supported by a more robust and transparent system with standardisation of data collection and greater emphasis on data quality. Regulatory decision making and enforcement have become more transparent with the creation of the Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee and greater release of documentation of activities, including access to clinical trial data on the European Medicines Agency website. There has been a great emphasis on signal detection from any source worldwide and a move from risk management to benefit risk management, with monitoring and assessment of effectiveness now part of pharmacovigilance.
Pharmacovigilance for Veterinary Medicinal Products
Authors: Woodward Kevin N.
Published: February 2018

Collecting and analysing reports of suspected adverse reactions to veterinary medicinal products is an important part of the regulatory process. The information obtained contributes to the body of knowledge of the adverse effects of a veterinary medicine and its constituents, further defines its safety profile and, where necessary, permits alterations to the terms of the marketing authorisation through restrictions or modifications to the terms of the authorisation, including changes to the product label and product literature. In some cases, authorisations may be suspended or revoked if the adverse reactions are deemed to be sufficiently serious or if mitigating measures are impractical. This chapter examines the European Union requirements for veterinary pharmacovigilance and the guidelines that are applicable. It is important to stress that not all adverse drug reactions have a toxicological basis, for example lack of expected efficacy and reactions to biological products. However, others do have a toxicological origin, and some examples of such adverse reactions to veterinary medicinal products in animals and in humans are reviewed.
Regulatory Toxicology of Pesticides: Concepts
Authors: Ritz V. , Solecki Roland A.
Published: February 2018

In this chapter, Regulatory Toxicology of Pesticides: Concepts, the main topics summarised are the key processes of human health risk assessment of pesticidal active substances as well as plant protection products and biocidal products. Based on submission of various toxicity studies from the applicants and also consideration of the peer-reviewed literature, the hazards are identified, dose–response relationships are characterised and toxicological threshold values are derived. This is followed in the authorisation procedure by comparison of toxicological thresholds with the exposure data in the risk assessment. Future trends and new methodologies in regulatory toxicology will improve the risk assessment, including the consideration of metabolites, the development of test guidelines as well as cumulative risk assessment. Microorganisms used as pesticides also have to be given attention.
Legal Background and Procedures on Pesticides
Authors: Stein Bernd , Rotter Stefanie , Ritz Vera
Published: February 2018

This chapter, Legal Background and Procedures on Pesticides, provides an overview of the main topics and legal procedures for the regulatory toxicology of pesticides in the European Union. Legal requirements and procedural steps for approval of active substances, as well as the authorisation of plant protection products and biocidal products, are described, particularly those relevant to regulatory toxicology and human health risk assessment. Furthermore, an overview is given of the procedure of setting of maximum residue levels for plant protection products as a prerequisite for the authorisation of plant production products and the stipulation of import tolerances. Based on the different regulations, comprehensive information is given on the data requirements, evaluation, risk assessment and decision making regarding human health assessment. Further information is provided on the mutual recognition of products and simplified authorisation procedures for special product types.