bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rates of reinforcement and measures of compliance in free and protected contact elephant management systems
Authors: Wilson Megan L. , Perdue Bonnie M. , Bloomsmith Mollie A. , Maple Terry L.
Published: July 2015

Protected contact is an alternative to traditional captive elephant training techniques that emerged as a result of concerns for animal welfare and personnel safety. The present study documented the behavior of elephants and their animal care professionals to determine rates of reinforcement and measures of compliance under two handling systems. Behavioral data were collected from animal care professionals and elephants during the elephants' baths in both free contact (FC) and protected contact (PC). Positive reinforcement, in the form of food, was delivered, on average, nearly eight times more frequently in the PC condition. Further, the mean rate at which the animal care professionals used the ankus in the FC condition as negative reinforcement was similar to the mean rate at which they provided positive reinforcement to the elephants in the FC condition. Latencies between verbal commands and the elephants' behaviors demonstrated an inconsistent pattern, but were generally longer in the PC condition. The mean percent of “refusals” by the elephants was higher for most behaviors across elephants in the PC condition. The findings suggest that animal care professionals did not heavily rely on positive reinforcement in the FC condition to elicit desired behaviors from the elephants, but this was the case in the PC condition. We propose that longer latencies and higher mean percent of refusals by the elephants may indicate that they were exercising choice or control over their environment, which has been associated with improved well‐being. Additional studies of this kind are needed to enable other institutions to make informed decisions about elephant management and welfare. Zoo Biol. 34:431–437, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Chemistry and biology of the compounds that modulate cell migration
Authors: Tashiro Etsu , Imoto Masaya
Published: July 2015

Cell migration is a fundamental step for embryonic development, wound repair, immune responses, and tumor cell invasion and metastasis. Extensive studies have attempted to reveal the molecular mechanisms behind cell migration; however, they remain largely unclear. Bioactive compounds that modulate cell migration show promise as not only extremely powerful tools for studying the mechanisms behind cell migration but also as drug seeds for chemotherapy against tumor metastasis. Therefore, we have screened cell migration inhibitors and analyzed their mechanisms for the inhibition of cell migration. In this mini-review, we introduce our chemical and biological studies of three cell migration inhibitors: moverastin, UTKO1, and BU-4664L.
Identification of QTLs associated with albino plant formation and some new facts concerning green versus albino ratio determinants in triticale (×Triticosecale Wittm.) anther culture
Authors: Krzewska Monika , Czyczyło-Mysza Ilona , Dubas Ewa , Gołębiowska-Pikania Gabriela , Żur Iwona
Published: July 2015

High frequency of albino haploids/doubled haploids (DHs), regenerated in androgenic cultures is one of the major obstacles that limit incorporation of DHs technology into cereal breeding programs. Therefore, quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with albino plant production in triticale anther cultures were analyzed using the population of 90 DH lines derived from F1 cross ‘Saka 3006’ × ‘Modus’. Composite interval mapping (CIM) and single marker analysis (SMA) in Windows QTL Cartographer ver 2.5 were used to localize the major QTLs. CIM method revealed seven QTLs with LOD scores between 2.9 and 5.6 on five chromosomes from B to R subgenomes (3B, 4B, 4R, 5R and 7R). Effects of all QTLs explained 8.3–17.6 % of the phenotypic variation and were confirmed by SMA analysis. Additionally SMA revealed another seven markers on chromosomes: 2AL.2BL, 3B, 2BS.6AL, 2RS.3R and 4R associated with QTL for albino plant regeneration (p < 0.01). The additional experiment with ten DH lines varied significantly in their androgenic responsiveness was conducted to analyze the changes in the level of oxidative stress, antioxidative system activity and endogenous hormonal balance associated with androgenesis-inducing low temperature stress treatment (3 weeks at 4 °C). The correlation analysis between albino/green plant regeneration ability and analyzed traits were performed by using Spearman Rank test (p ≤ 0.05). Revealed associations may suggest that some level of oxidative stress is necessary for transition from a non-photosynthetic proplastids to the functional chloroplasts. On the other hand, the efficient antioxidative enzyme system and endogenous hormonal balance are also very important.

Key message

Fourteen chromosome regions were indicated to control albino plant formation during triticale anther culture. Additionally, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, antioxidative system activity and hormonal balance were discussed as determinants in androgenesis.
Micellar Effect of Ammonium Based Cationic Surfactants on Kinetics of Methylene Blue‐Assisted Ru (III) and Cu (II) Catalyzed Cysteine/Cystine Transformation in Acidic Aqueous Media
Authors: Jan Roheena , Bhat Mohsin Ahmad , Islam Nasarul , Khan Badruddin
Published: July 2015

Kinetic investigations of cysteine–cystine transformation assisted by model electron acceptor methylene blue (MB) and catalyzed synergistically by Ru (III) and Cu (II) in aqueous media of varying pH, temperature and micellar solutions of two ammonium based cationic surfactants viz. octadecylammonium chloride (OAC) and octadecylpyridine‐2‐ylmethylammonium chloride (OPMAC) were carried out. The homogeneous electron transfer between cysteine and MB was observed to exhibit pH sensitive kinetics that is affected by the presence of ammonium based cationic surfactants. While the postmicellar concentrations of OAC decrease the rate of the cysteine oxidation, the presence of OPMAC micelles was observed to accelerate the said reaction. The observed micellar kinetic effects modeled through quantum mechanical calculations are explained in light of the reactant‐micelle interactions. To the best of our knowledge the synthesis, micellization and micellar catalytic activity of OPMAC are yet to be reported in the literature.
A course in dictionary use for Korean EFL teachers
Authors: Bae Susanna
Published: July 2015

This study examines knowledge needs for dictionary reference skills among Korean teachers of English within the context of a 12-h in-service teachertraining course in dictionary use. As an integral part of the curriculum development project, the study looked into various aspects of English teachers’ dictionary training needs, mainly by means of multiple survey instruments (i.e., before- and after-training questionnaires) and the qualitative analysis of the teachers’ duringcourse comments throughout multiple phases of the training process. The traineeteachers’ spontaneous questions regarding dictionary use as well as their duringtraining feedback provided particularly useful information about the skills that should be focused on to meet the perceived training needs of current Korean teachers of English. The study has identified a clear need for typological and functional knowledge about the various dictionaries available, for informed dictionary choices, and for skills to exploit electronic dictionary functions. Most of the perceived needs were found to be related to across-dictionary skills, rather than skills specific to a particular dictionary. From this study, it was also found that explicit skill training can be a very effective mode of teaching for specific usergroups such as non-native teachers of English.
Detecting recent changes in the areal extent of North Cascades glaciers, USA
Authors: O'Neal Michael A. , Hanson Brian , Carisio Sebastian , Satinsky Ashley
Published: July 2015

We present an exhaustive spatial analysis using the geographic, geometric, and hypsometric characteristics of 742 North Cascades glaciers to evaluate changes in their areal extents over a half-century period. Our results indicate that, contrary to our initial expectations, glacier change throughout the study region cannot be explained readily by correlations in glacier location, size, or shape. Because of the large error attributable to annual variations in glacier area due to snowpack, no statistically reliable change could be detected for 444 glaciers in our study (a slight majority). Of the North Cascades glaciers that do exhibit detectable change, a majority decreased in area, but nevertheless, some were detectably growing. These findings suggest that the integration of weather patterns over time does not neatly translate into correlations with natural variations in the geometry of glaciers. Our statistical analyses of the changes observed indicate that geometric data from a large number of glaciers, as well as a surprisingly large amount of spatial change, are required for a credible statistical detection of glacier-length and area changes over a short (multidecadal) period of time.
A systematic review of online interventions for mental health in low and middle income countries: a neglected field
Authors: Arjadi R. , Nauta M. H. , Chowdhary N. , Bockting C. L. H.
Published: July 2015

Background.

Low and middle income countries (LMICs) are facing an increase of the impact of mental health problems while confronted with limited resources and limited access to mental health care, known as the ‘mental health gap’. One strategy to reduce the mental health gap would be to utilize the internet to provide more widely-distributed and low cost mental health care. We undertook this systematic review to investigate the effectiveness and efficacy of online interventions in LMICs.

Methods.

We systematically searched the data-bases PubMed, PsycINFO, JMIR, and additional sources. MeSH terms, Thesaurus, and free text keywords were used. We included all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of online interventions in LMICs.

Results.

We found only three articles reported results of RCTs on online interventions for mental health conditions in LMICs, but none of these interventions was compared with an active control condition. Also, the mental health conditions were diverse across the three studies.

Conclusions.

There is a dearth of studies examining the effect of online interventions in LMICs, so we cannot draw a firm conclusion on its effectiveness. However, given the effectiveness of online interventions in high income countries and sharp increase of internet access in LMICs, online interventions may offer a potential to help reduce the ‘mental health gap’. More studies are urgently needed in LMICs.
Psychotropic prescribing patterns among adolescents in Northern Ireland presenting with psychotic symptoms during a 5-year period
Authors: Woods G. , Shannon C. , Davidson G. , Hoy K. , Lewis D. , Tumelty L. , Mulholland C.
Published: July 2015

Objective

To report new prescriptions of psychotropic medications among adolescents presenting with new onset psychotic symptoms during a 5-year period.

Methods

The Northern Ireland Early Onset Psychosis Study is a naturalistic longitudinal observational study of patients with an early onset first psychotic episode. All patients aged <18 years presenting to specialist mental health services across Northern Ireland with new onset psychotic symptoms between 2001 and 2006 were recruited (n=113). Clinical case notes were analysed retrospectively for details of subsequent treatment with psychotropic medications.

Results

A total of 100 patients (88.5%) were prescribed some form of psychotropic medication. Over three-quarters of patients received an antipsychotic as their first medication. Risperidone (45.8%), olanzapine (24.0%) and chlorpromazine (12.5%) were the most commonly prescribed first-line antipsychotic medications. Of a total of 160 antipsychotic prescriptions, 81 (50.6%) were off-label. Prescriptions were most likely to have been deemed off-label owing to medications not being licensed in under-18s (71.6% of off-label prescriptions) but other reasons were medications being used outside licensed age ranges (23.5%) and outside licensed indications (4.9%).

Conclusions

This is the first study examining psychotropic prescribing patterns in a complete sample of all children and adolescents presenting with early onset psychotic episodes in a single geographical area. The observation of risperidone as the most commonly prescribed antipsychotic was in keeping with previous studies in child and adolescent populations. Rates of off-label prescribing were lower than previously observed although our study was the first to investigate off-label prescribing solely in children and adolescents presenting with psychotic symptoms.
Mental illness self-management: a randomised controlled trial of the Wellness Recovery Action Planning intervention for inpatients and outpatients with psychiatric illness
Authors: O’Keeffe D. , Hickey D. , Lane A. , McCormack M. , Lawlor E. , Kinsella A. , Donoghue O. , Clarke M.
Published: July 2015

Objective

Wellness Recovery Action Planning (WRAP) is a cross-diagnostic, patient-centred, self-management intervention for psychiatric illness. WRAP utilises an individualised Wellness Toolbox, a six part structured monitoring and response system, and a crisis and post-crisis plan to promote recovery. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of WRAP on personal recovery, quality of life, and self-reported psychiatric symptoms.

Method

A prospective randomised controlled trial, based on the CONSORT principles was conducted using a sample of 36 inpatients and outpatients with a diagnosis of a mental disorder. Participants were randomly allocated to Experimental Group or Waiting List Control Group conditions in a 1:1 ratio. Measures of personal recovery, personal recovery life areas, quality of life, anxiety, and depression were administered at three time points: (i) pre-intervention, (ii) post-Experimental Group intervention delivery, and (iii) 6-month follow-up. Data was analysed by available case analysis using univariate and bivariate methodologies.

Results

WRAP had a significant effect on two personal recovery life areas measured by the Mental Health Recovery Star: (i) addictive behaviour and (ii) identity and self-esteem. WRAP did not have a significant effect on personal recovery (measured by the Mental Health Recovery Measure), quality of life, or psychiatric symptoms.

Conclusions

Findings indicate that WRAP improves personal recovery in the areas of (i) addictive behaviour and (ii) identity and self-esteem. Further research is required to confirm WRAP efficacy in other outcome domains. Efforts to integrate WRAP into recovery-orientated mental health services should be encouraged and evaluated.
Human Resource Practices and Firm Performance in China: The Moderating Roles of Regional Human Capital Quality and Firm Innovation Strategy
Authors: Li Xiaobei , Qin Xin , Jiang Kaifeng , Zhang Sanbao , Gao Fei-Yi
Published: July 2015

We conducted two studies to investigate the contingent role of regional human capital quality (i.e., the knowledge, skills, and abilities of the collective workforce in a region) in the relationship between firm-level human resource (HR) practices (i.e., practices focusing on employees’ human capital development) and firm performance in China. Drawing upon human capital theory, we hypothesized that the human capital–enhancing HR practices and regional human capital quality have a substitutive effect on firm performance. Study 1 uses a World Bank survey of 9,125 firms in 30 provinces. We found that the human capital–enhancing HR practices relate more strongly to firm performance when regional human capital quality was lower than when it was higher. Study 2 used a sample of 203 firms across seven provinces. We found similar results. We further hypothesized and found that the substitutive effect of regional human capital quality was stronger when a firm adopted an innovation strategy. Our findings provide new evidence for the contingency perspective of strategic HR management and highlight the importance of matching HR practices with local labor quality conditions and the business strategy of the firm.
Letter from the Editor
Authors: Lewin Arie Y.
Published: July 2015

As many readers of MOR and IACMR members know, Kwok Leung, Deputy Editor in Chief of MOR, passed away on May 25th, 2015. He was hospitalized at the Prince of Wales Hospital in Hong Kong for more than two and half months, battling a very rare case of autoimmune disease. He celebrated his 57th birthday in the hospital. Kwok was one of the few mainstream social psychology scholars who made important scholarly contributions to cross-cultural management research, including the AIB community, where I first worked with him, the IACMR, and MOR. I have lost a friend, a partner, and a mentor. On behalf of MOR I extend my condolences to his family.
The Group of Automorphisms of the Algebra of one-Sided Inverses of a Polynomial Algebra. II
Authors: Bavula V. V.
Published: July 2015

The algebraof one-sided inverses of a polynomial algebraPninnvariables is obtained fromPnby adding commutingleft(but not two-sided) inverses of the canonical generators of the algebraPn. The algebrais isomorphic to the algebra

of scalar integro-differential operators provided that char(K) = 0. Ignoring the non-Noetherian property, the algebrabelongs to a family of algebras like thenth Weyl algebraAnand the polynomial algebraP2n. Explicit generators are found for the groupGnof automorphisms of the algebraand for the groupof units of(both groups are huge). An analogue of theJacobianhomomorphism AutK-alg(Pn) →K*is introduced for the groupGn(notice that the algebrais non-commutative and neither left nor right Noetherian). The polynomial Jacobian homomorphism is unique. Its analogue is also unique forn> 2 but forn= 1, 2 there are exactly two of them. The proof is based on the following theorem that is proved in the paper:
Middle Phanerozoic mass extinctions and a tribute to the work of Professor Tony Hallam
Authors: WIGNALL PAUL B. , VAN DE SCHOOTBRUGGE BAS
Published: July 2015

Tony Hallam's contributions to mass extinction studies span more than 50 years and this thematic issue provides an opportunity to pay tribute to the many pioneering contributions he has made to this field. Early work (1961) on the Jurassic in Europe revealed a link, during the Toarcian Stage, between extinction and the spread of anoxic waters during transgression – the first time such a common leitmotif had been identified. He also identified substantial sea-level changes during other mass extinction intervals with either regression (end-Triassic) or early transgression (end-Permian) coinciding with the extinction phases. Hallam's (1981) study on bivalves was also the first to elevate the status of the end-Triassic crisis and place it amongst true mass extinctions, changing previous perceptions that it was a part of a protracted period of turnover, although debates on the duration of this crisis continue (Hallam, 2002). Conflicting views on the nature of recovery from mass extinctions have also developed, especially for the aftermath of the end-Permian mass extinction. These discussions can be traced to Hallam's seminal 1991 paper that noted the considerable delay in benthic recovery during Early Triassic time and attributed it to the persistence of the harmful, high-stress conditions responsible for the extinction itself. This idea now forms the cornerstone of one of the more favoured explanations for this ultra-low diversity interval.
Phase diagrams of forced magnetic reconnection in Taylor’s model
Authors: Comisso L. , Grasso D. , Waelbroeck F. L.
Published: July 2015

Recent progress in the understanding of how externally driven magnetic reconnection evolves is organized in terms of parameter space diagrams. These diagrams are constructed using four pivotal dimensionless parameters: the Lundquist number $S$, the magnetic Prandtl number $P_{m}$, the amplitude of the boundary perturbation $\hat{{\it\Psi}}_{0}$, and the perturbation wave number $\hat{k}$. This new representation highlights the parameter regions of a given system in which the magnetic reconnection process is expected to be distinguished by a specific evolution. Contrary to previously proposed phase diagrams, the diagrams introduced here take into account the dynamical evolution of the reconnection process and are able to predict slow or fast reconnection regimes for the same values of $S$ and $P_{m}$, depending on the parameters that characterize the external drive, which have not been considered until now. These features are crucial to understanding the onset and evolution of magnetic reconnection in diverse physical systems.
Observation of trichomonads infection in a child with periodontitis by direct microscopy at the dental office
Authors: MARTY MATHIEU , BONNER MARK , VAYSSE FRÉDÉRIC
Published: July 2015

The pathogenicity of Trichomonas species is well documented. Although their exact involvement in gum disease is not fully understood, recent studies suggest a correlation between these protozoa and periodontitis. This case report details the first chair-side observation in Europe of an oral trichomonad infection in a child with periodontitis, by direct microscopy. The dramatic recovery of the patient, observed following administration of an anti-parasitic treatment, confirms the necessity of further investigation in this field.
The role of life events and psychological factors in the onset of first and recurrent mood episodes in bipolar offspring: results from the Dutch Bipolar Offspring Study
Authors: Kemner S. M. , Mesman E. , Nolen W. A. , Eijckemans M. J. C. , Hillegers M. H. J.
Published: July 2015

Background

Life events are an established risk factor for the onset and recurrence of unipolar and bipolar mood episodes, especially in the presence of genetic vulnerability. The dynamic interplay between life events and psychological context, however, is less studied. In this study, we investigated the impact of life events on the onset and recurrence of mood episodes in bipolar offspring, as well as the effects of temperament, coping and parenting style on this association.

Method

Bipolar offspring (n = 108) were followed longitudinally from adolescence to adulthood. Mood disorders were assessed with: the Kiddie Schedule of Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia – Present and Lifetime Version or the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis I disorders; life events with the Life Events and Difficulties Schedule; and psychological measures using the Utrecht Coping List, Temperament and Character Inventory and short-EMBU (memories of upbringing instrument). Anderson–Gill models (an extension of the Cox proportional hazard model) were utilized.

Results

Life events were associated with an increased risk for first and, although less pronounced, subsequent mood episodes. There was a large confounding effect for the number of previous mood episodes; findings suggest a possible kindling effect. Passive coping style increased the risk of mood episode onset and recurrent episodes, but also altered the effect of life events on mood disorders. Harm avoidance temperament was associated with mood episode recurrence.

Conclusions

Life events are especially a risk factor in the onset of mood disorders, though less so in recurrent episodes. Psychological features (passive coping and harm-avoidant temperament) contribute to the risk of an episode occurring, and also have a moderating effect on the association between life events and mood episodes. These findings create potential early intervention strategies for bipolar offspring.
Latent structure of cognition in schizophrenia: a confirmatory factor analysis of the MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Battery (MCCB)
Authors: McCleery A. , Green M. F. , Hellemann G. S. , Baade L. E. , Gold J. M. , Keefe R. S. E. , Kern R. S. , Mesholam-Gately R. I. , Seidman L. J. , Subotnik K. L. , Ventura J. , Nuechterlein K. H.
Published: July 2015

Background

The number of separable cognitive dimensions in schizophrenia has been debated. Guided by the extant factor analytic literature, the NIMH Measurement and Treatment Research to Improve Cognition in Schizophrenia (MATRICS) initiative selected seven cognitive domains relevant to treatment studies in schizophrenia: speed of processing, attention/vigilance, working memory, verbal learning, visual learning, reasoning and problem solving, and social cognition. These domains are assessed in the MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Battery (MCCB). The aim of this study was to conduct a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) of the beta battery of the MCCB to compare the fit of the MATRICS consensus seven-domain model to other models in the current literature on cognition in schizophrenia.

Method

Using data from 281 schizophrenia outpatients, we compared the seven correlated factors model with alternative models. Specifically, we compared the 7-factor model to (a) a single-factor model, (b) a three correlated factors model including speed of processing, working memory, and general cognition, and (c) a hierarchical model in which seven first-order factors loaded onto a second-order general cognitive factor.

Results

Multiple fit indices indicated the seven correlated factors model was the best fit for the data and provided significant improvement in model fit beyond the comparison models.

Conclusions

These results support the assessment of these seven cognitive dimensions in clinical trials of interventions to improve cognition in schizophrenia. Because these cognitive factors are separable to some degree, it is plausible that specific interventions may have differential effects on the domains.
Motivational interviewing and interaction skills training for parents of young adults with recent-onset schizophrenia and co-occurring cannabis use: 15-month follow-up
Authors: Smeerdijk M. , Keet R. , van Raaij B. , Koeter M. , Linszen D. , de Haan L. , Schippers G.
Published: July 2015

Background

There is a clear need for effective interventions to reduce cannabis use in patients with first-episode psychosis. This follow-up of a randomized trial examined whether an intervention for parents, based on motivational interviewing and interaction skills (Family Motivational Intervention, FMI), was more effective than routine family support (RFS) in reducing cannabis use in patients with recent-onset schizophrenia.

Method

In a single-blind trial with 75 patients in treatment for recent-onset schizophrenia, 97 parents were randomly assigned to either FMI or RFS. Assessments were conducted at baseline and at 3 and 15 months after the interventions had been ended. Analyses were performed on an intention-to-treat basis using mixed-effect regression models.

Results

From baseline to the 15-month follow-up, there was a significantly greater reduction in FMI compared to RFS in patients’ quantity (p = 0.01) and frequency (p < 0.01) of cannabis use. Patients’ craving for cannabis use was also significantly lower in FMI at 15 months follow-up (p < 0.01). Both groups improved in parental distress and sense of burden; however, only FMI parents’ appraisal of patients’ symptoms showed further improvement at the 15-month follow-up (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The results support the sustained effectiveness of FMI in reducing cannabis use in patients with recent-onset schizophrenia at 15 months follow-up. Findings were not consistent with regard to the long-term superiority of FMI over RFS in reducing parents’ distress and sense of burden.
Cognitive control, reward-related decision making and outcomes of late-life depression treated with an antidepressant
Authors: Alexopoulos G. S. , Manning K. , Kanellopoulos D. , McGovern A. , Seirup J. K. , Banerjee S. , Gunning F.
Published: July 2015

Background.

Executive processes consist of at least two sets of functions: one concerned with cognitive control and the other with reward-related decision making. Abnormal performance in both sets occurs in late-life depression. This study tested the hypothesis that only abnormal performance in cognitive control tasks predicts poor outcomes of late-life depression treated with escitalopram.

Method.

We studied older subjects with major depression (N = 53) and non-depressed subjects (N = 30). Executive functions were tested with the Iowa Gambling Test (IGT), Stroop Color-Word Test, Tower of London (ToL), and Dementia Rating Scale – Initiation/Perseveration domain (DRS-IP). After a 2-week placebo washout, depressed subjects received escitalopram (target daily dose: 20 mg) for 12 weeks.

Results.

There were no significant differences between depressed and non-depressed subjects on executive function tests. Hierarchical cluster analysis of depressed subjects identified a Cognitive Control cluster (abnormal Stroop, ToL, DRS-IP), a Reward-Related cluster (IGT), and an Executively Unimpaired cluster. Decline in depression was greater in the Executively Unimpaired (t = −2.09, df = 331, p = 0.0375) and the Reward-Related (t = −2.33, df = 331, p = 0.0202) clusters than the Cognitive Control cluster. The Executively Unimpaired cluster (t = 2.17, df = 331, p = 0.03) and the Reward-Related cluster (t = 2.03, df = 331, p = 0.0433) had a higher probability of remission than the Cognitive Control cluster.

Conclusions.

Dysfunction of cognitive control functions, but not reward-related decision making, may influence the decline of symptoms and the probability of remission of late-life depression treated with escitalopram. If replicated, simple to administer cognitive control tests may be used to select depressed older patients at risk for poor outcomes to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors who may require structured psychotherapy.
A Whetstone of Wealden Sandstone from the Roman Villa at Great Holts Farm, Boreham, Essex
Authors: Allen J.R.L.
Published: July 2015

Excavated in 1992–4, the villa yielded a portion of a whetstone which, on the basis of general shape, the presence of rebated long edges and microscopic petrography in thin-section, was with little doubt made from a sandstone in the Weald Clay Formation (Lower Cretaceous) of the north-west Weald. It is representative of a widely recorded, major stone-based industry in Roman Britain, with finds known to range from the Channel coast to the northern frontier zone.
Finds of Spanish Samian Ware (Terra Sigillata Hispanica) from Britain
Authors: Bustamante Álvarez Macarena , Bird Joanna
Published: July 2015

Two sherds of terra sigillata hispanica have now been identified from Britain, both recognised by their distinctive decoration, while a stamped sherd may also have been made in Spain. Further pieces for which a possible Spanish origin has been suggested are probably East Gaulish. The difficulty of identifying the ware by fabric alone is noted and the reasons for its presence in Britain discussed.
PAYER PERSPECTIVES ON FUTURE ACCEPTABILITY OF COMPARATIVE EFFECTIVENESS AND RELATIVE EFFECTIVENESS RESEARCH
Authors: Moloney Rachael , Mohr Penny , Hawe Emma , Shah Koonal , Garau Martina , Towse Adrian
Published: July 2015

Objectives: Our objective was to gather perspectives from payers on how comparative effectiveness research (CER) in the United States and relative effectiveness (RE) research in Europe will impact evidentiary standards for access decisions of new drugs by 2020.

Methods: We conducted semi-structured interviews with fourteen senior officials representing public and private payers, health technology assessment groups, and pricing and reimbursement bodies in the United States and Europe. An online survey assessed current use of CER/RE evidence and potential trends that might influence its use for decision making by 2020. A semi-structured interview elicited payers' definitions of CER/RE and was structured around four hypothetical cases resembling drugs expected to be more common or poised to create policy challenges by 2020. Topics included acceptance of study designs and analytic methods associated with CER/RE. A systematic content review was done to extract relevant information.

Results: According to key informants, randomization will remain an essential component for assessing comparative or relative effectiveness. They anticipate greater use of policy levers such as conditional reimbursement or prior authorization to manage diffusion of new drugs. Case studies provided important insights into situations when certain types of CER evidence may be acceptable (e.g., observational data when differences between drugs are largely convenience).

Conclusions: Industry perceptions that CER/RE will change payers' evidentiary requirements in the future are consistent with our findings. Growing investment in payers' own data and increased reliance on policy tools to control diffusion of new drugs may also influence the type of evidence industry will be required to produce by 2020.
APPROXIMATING LOCAL VOLATILITY FUNCTIONS OF STOCHASTIC VOLATILITY MODELS: A CLOSED-FORM EXPANSION APPROACH
Authors: An Yu , Li Chenxu
Published: July 2015

We propose a method for approximating equivalent local volatility functions of stochastic volatility models. Enlightened by the theory of generalized Wiener functionals proposed by Watanabe and Yoshida (1987, 1992), our key technique is to propose a closed-form expansion of conditional expectations involving marginal distributions generated by stochastic differential equations. A numerical test and an illustration of application are provided to demonstrate the efficiency of our approach.
Managing alien bird species: Time to move beyond “100 of the worst” lists?
Authors: KUMSCHICK SABRINA , BLACKBURN TIM M. , RICHARDSON DAVID M.
Published: July 2015

Alien species can cause severe impacts in their introduced ranges and management is challenging due to the large number of such species and the diverse nature and context of their impacts. Lists of the most harmful species, like the “100 of the World’s Worst” list collated by the Invasive Species Specialist Group of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) or the “100 of the Worst” invaders in Europe collated by the Delivering Alien Invasive Species Inventories in Europe (DAISIE) project, raise awareness about these impacts among the public, and can guide management decisions. Such lists are mainly based on expert opinion, but in recent years a more objective comparison of impacts has become possible, even between highly diverse taxa. In this study, we use a semi-quantitative generic impact scoring system to assess impacts of the three birds listed among the “100 of the World’s Worst” IUCN list (IUCN100) and the four birds on the list of “100 of the Worst” European invaders by DAISIE (DAISIE100) and to compare their impacts with those of other alien birds not present on the respective lists. We found that generally, both lists include some of the species with the highest impacts in the respective regions (global or Europe), and these species therefore deserve the dubious honour of being listed among the “worst”. However, there are broad overlaps between some species with regards to the impact mechanisms and the related issues of invasions, especially those of the Common Myna Acridotheres tristis and Red-vented Bulbul Pycnonotus cafer on the IUCN100, are very similar which might not warrant listing both species. To make the selection of species on such lists more transparent we suggest moving beyond lists based on expert opinion to a more transparent and defendable system for listing alien species based on published records of their impacts and related mechanisms.
A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF MATERNAL CALCIUM SUPPLEMENTATION AND PAEDIATRIC HEALTH
Authors: AL DORAZI SHOROK ALI , AL TALALWAH WASEEM
Published: July 2015

Calcium is an important element of body composition1,2 as well as normal physiological functions3. A neonate's body has around 20–30 g calcium present at birth2,4–6 and this amount has to be supplied by the mother since human body cannot synthesise calcium2. Therefore, if the mother has a shortage of calcium, the foetus might be affected.
NON-INVASIVE METHODS FOR MATERNAL CARDIAC OUTPUT MONITORING
Authors: STAELENS ANNELEEN S , BERTRAND PHILIPPE B , VONCK SHARONA , MALBRAIN MANU L N G , GYSELAERS WILFRIED
Published: July 2015

In a non-obstetric population, the optimization of cardiac output (CO) had been shown to improve survival and to reduce postoperative complications, organ failure and the length of stay1. CO monitoring might be very useful in the obstetric population as well, as physiologic changes of CO during pregnancy are mandatory for a normal outcome. An uncomplicated pregnancy is associated with a 50% increase in maternal CO, which is mediated by plasma volume expansion and a decrease in peripheral resistance2. An aberrant change of this maternal CO might influence pregnancy outcome: pregnancies complicated with foetal growth restriction and/or preeclampsia are characterized by increased total vascular resistance and reduced systolic function (i.e. lower CO and stroke volume (SV))3–5.
Time course of the meiotic arrest in sheep cumulus–oocyte complexes treated with roscovitine
Authors: Crocomo Letícia Ferrari , Marques Filho Wolff Camargo , Ackermann Camila Louise , Paschoal Daniela Martins , Guastali Midyan Daroz , Dias Maziero Rosiára Rosária , Sudano Mateus José , Landim-Alvarenga Fernanda da Cruz , Bicudo Sony Dimas
Published: July 2015

Temporary meiosis arrest with cyclin-dependent kinases inhibitors has been proposed in order to improve the quality of in vitro matured oocytes. In sheep, however, this phenomenon has been rarely investigated. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the effect of different incubation times with roscovitine on nuclear maturation and cumulus cell expansion of sheep cumulus–oocyte complexes (COCs). For this, COCs were cultured for 0, 6, 12 or 20 h in basic maturation medium (Control) containing 75 μM roscovitine (Rosco). After, they were in vitro matured (IVM) for 18 h in the presence of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). At the end of each treatment, cumulus cell expansion and nuclear maturation were assessed under a stereomicroscope and by Hoechst 33342 staining, respectively. In the Control and Rosco groups, the absence of cumulus cell expansion prevailed at 0, 6, 12 and 20 h. After IVM for 18 h, total cumulus cell expansion in the Rosco treatments was dependent on the exposure time to roscovitine. A significantly high percentage of oocytes treated with roscovitine for 6 h (87%), 12 h or 20 h (65%) were arrested at the germinal vesicle (GV) stage. In contrast, 23% GVBD, 54% metaphase I (MI) and 61% MII oocytes were observed in the Control groups at 6, 12 and 20 h, respectively. In all treatments, a significant percentage of oocytes reached MII after IVM for 18 h. Therefore, roscovitine reversibly arrested the meiosis of sheep oocytes during different culture times with the maximal efficiency of meiotic inhibition reached at 6 h. In addition, reversibility of its inhibitory action on cumulus cells was exposure-time dependent.
Outstanding questions concerning sperm-epithelial binding in the mammalian oviduct
Authors: Hunter Ronald Henry Fraser , Gadea Joaquín
Published: July 2015

Preovulatory binding of viable spermatozoa in the oviduct isthmus is widely accepted as a preliminary to fertilization, but details of physiological events associated with epithelial binding and release from binding are themselves little understood. Important questions include the potential number, distribution and stability of such sites in the caudal isthmus, whether multiple molecular forms of binding exist within a single-mated individual, and whether some sites are more favourable than others for the maintenance of preovulatory sperm viability. Also to be resolved is whether spermatozoa interact with the first available binding sites in the isthmus, whether spermatozoa from second or subsequent matings bind closer to the site of fertilization, and whether the first spermatozoa entering the oviduct are those that will be released first with impending ovulation. Ideally, future research needs to focus on a fertilizing spermatozoon monitoredin vivoand not on spermatozoa destined to remain on or in the zona pellucida or in the lower reaches of the oviduct.
The Norwood operation: Relative effects of surgeon and institutional volumes on outcomes and resource utilization
Authors: Anderson Brett R. , Ciarleglio Adam J. , Cohen David J. , Lai Wyman W. , Neidell Matthew , Hall Matthew , Glied Sherry A. , Bacha Emile A.
Published: July 2015

Background

Hypoplastic left heart syndrome is the most expensive birth defect managed in the United States, with a 5-year survival rate below 70%. Increasing evidence suggests that hospital volumes are inversely associated with mortality for infants with single ventricles undergoing stage 1 surgical palliation. Our aim was to examine the relative effects of surgeon and institutional volumes on outcomes and resource utilisation for these children.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted using the Pediatric Health Information System database to examine the effects of the number of procedures performed per surgeon and per centre on mortality, costs, and post-operative length of stay for infants undergoing Risk Adjustment for Congenital Heart Surgery risk category six operations at tertiary-care paediatric hospitals, from 1 January, 2004 to 31 December, 2013. Multivariable modelling was used, adjusting for patient and institutional characteristics. Gaussian kernel densities were constructed to show the relative distributions of the effects of individual institutions and surgeons, before and after adjusting for the number of cases performed.

Results

A total of 2880 infants from 35 institutions met the inclusion criteria. Mortality was 15.0%. Median post-operative length of stay was 24 days (IQR 14–41). Median standardized inpatient hospital costs were $156,000 (IQR $108,000–$248,000) in 2013 dollars. In the multivariable analyses, higher institutional volume was inversely associated with mortality (p=0.001), post-operative length of stay (p=0.004), and costs (p=0.001). Surgeon volume was associated with none of the measured outcomes. Neither institutional nor surgeon volumes explained much of the wide variation in outcomes and resource utilization observed between institutions and between surgeons.

Conclusions

Increased institutional – but not surgeon – volumes are associated with reduced mortality, post-operative length of stay, and costs for infants undergoing stage 1 palliation.
Small coronary artery fistulae in childhood: a 6-year experience of 31 cases in a tertiary paediatric cardiac centre
Authors: Welisch Eva , Norozi Kambiz , Burrill Liz , Rauch Ralf
Published: July 2015

Background

This study describes the incidence and course of children with small coronary artery fistulae over a period of 6 years who presented at a paediatric tertiary-care centre.

Materials and methods

Age at diagnosis, mode of presentation, location (origin and drainage), and association with a cardiac defect were documented and analysed. All patients obtained an electrocardiogram, and older patients were further evaluated with an exercise treadmill test.

Results

A total of 31 patients were diagnosed with coronary artery fistula via transthoracic echocardiogram and comprised 0.43% of our entire patient group. Mean age was 6.14 years (standard deviation 5.4); 16 patients (52%) had associated cardiac defects. In the remaining 15 patients, the coronary artery fistula was discovered incidentally during diagnostic work-up for heart murmur or chest pain. Among all, 26 patients (84%) had left-sided and five patients (16%) had right-sided coronary artery fistulae. All right coronary artery fistula patients had associated cardiac defects; this was true for 42% of the patients with left coronary artery fistulae. None of the patients required any intervention due to the fistula, and spontaneous closure occurred in 12 patients (39%).

Conclusion

Small coronary artery fistulae in children are frequently an incidental finding, and many will close spontaneously. Our data are supportive of a conservative, observant approach in asymptomatic patients with small coronary artery fistula in the paediatric population.
Dietary patterns and the incidence of hyperglyacemia in China
Authors: Hong Xin , Xu Fei , Wang Zhiyong , Liang Yaqiong , Li Jiequan
Published: July 2015

Objective

Epidemiological studies have examined associations between dietary patterns and the risk of type 2 diabetes. However, information on dietary patterns and the risk of type 2 diabetes in Chinese populations is scarce. The aim of the present study was to identify dietary patterns and examine their association with incident hyperglycaemia in Nanjing, China.

Design

A community-based prospective cohort study. Dietary assessment was carried out using a validated eighty-seven-item FFQ. Dietary patterns were identified by exploratory factor analysis. Participants were categorized into tertiles of dietary factor score for each dietary pattern. The relationship between dietary patterns and hyperglycaemia risk was analysed using multivariable linear and Cox regression.

Setting

Seven communities from two urban districts in Nanjing, China.

Subjects

A total of 2900 of Chinese local residents aged 30 years or above, free of hyperglycaemia and other serious diseases, who participated in the baseline survey from June to September 2007 were followed up 3 years later from June to September 2010 for the development of hyperglycaemia. Fasting blood samples were collected at both baseline and 3-year follow-up surveys. Hyperglycaemia was defined as fasting plasma glucose concentration of ≥6·1 mmol/l or already taking oral hyperglycaemia agents for treatment of type 2 diabetes.

Results

Five major dietary patterns were identified: (i) the ‘condiments’ pattern; (ii) the ‘animal and plant protein’ pattern; (iii) the ‘healthy traditional’ pattern; (iv) the ‘fruits, eggs and juice’ pattern; and (v) the ‘alcohol, milk and tea’ pattern. A total of 2093 (72·2 %) individuals completed the follow-up survey and the 3-year cumulative incidence of hyperglycaemia was 7·5 % (158/2093). A 1-unit increase in the score for the ‘healthy traditional’ pattern was associated with a decrease of 0·054 mmol/l in fasting plasma glucose (P=0·017), while a 1-unit increase in the ‘fruits, eggs and juice’ pattern score was associated with an increase of 0·050 mmol/l in fasting plasma glucose (P=0·023) by multivariable linear regression. For men, tertile 3 of the ‘fruits, eggs and juice’ pattern was associated with an 88 % greater risk (hazard ratio=1·88; 95 % CI 1·04, 3·54) of hyperglycaemia than tertile 1 of this pattern. Being in tertile 3 of the ‘alcohol, milk and tea’ pattern was associated with a 35 % greater risk (hazard ratio=1·35; 95 % CI 1·04, 2·16) relative to tertile 1 in women, while for the ‘'healthy traditional’ pattern tertile 3 was associated with a 41 % lower risk (hazard ratio=0·59; 95 % CI 0·35, 0·99) compared with tertile 1. The ‘condiments’ and the ‘animal and plant protein’ patterns were not independently associated with hyperglycaemia.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that modifying dietary patterns could reduce hyperglycaemia incidence in the mainland Chinese adult population.