bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of habitat odour by host‐seeking insects
Authors: Webster Ben , Cardé Ring T.
Published: May 2016

Locating suitable feeding or oviposition sites is essential for insect survival. Understanding how insects achieve this is crucial, not only for understanding the ecology and evolution of insect–host interactions, but also for the development of sustainable pest‐control strategies that exploit insects' host‐seeking behaviours. Volatile chemical cues are used by foraging insects to locate and recognise potential hosts but in nature these resources usually are patchily distributed, making chance encounters with host odour plumes rare over distances greater than tens of metres. The majority of studies on insect host‐seeking have focussed on short‐range orientation to easily detectable cues and it is only recently that we have begun to understand how insects overcome this challenge. Recent advances show that insects from a wide range of feeding guilds make use of ‘habitat cues’, volatile chemical cues released over a relatively large area that indicate a locale where more specific host cues are most likely to be found. Habitat cues differ from host cues in that they tend to be released in larger quantities, are more easily detectable over longer distances, and may lack specificity, yet provide an effective way for insects to maximise their chances of subsequently encountering specific host cues. This review brings together recent advances in this area, discussing key examples and similarities in strategies used by haematophagous insects, soil‐dwelling insects and insects that forage around plants. We also propose and provide evidence for a new theory that general and non‐host plant volatiles can be used by foraging herbivores to locate patches of vegetation at a distance in the absence of more specific host cues, explaining some of the many discrepancies between laboratory and field trials that attempt to make use of plant‐derived repellents for controlling insect pests.
A prognostic risk model for patients with triple negative breast cancer based on stromal natural killer cells, tumor‐associated macrophages and growth‐arrest specific protein 6
Authors: Tian Wenjing , Wang Le , Yuan Lili , Duan Wenming , Zhao Wenhui , Wang Shuhuai , Zhang Qingyuan
Published: May 2016

The aim of this study was to establish a prognostic risk model for patients with triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). A total of 278 specimens of human TNBC tissues were investigated by immunohistochemistry for growth‐arrest specific protein 6 expression, infiltrations of stromal natural killer cells and tumor‐associated macrophages. According to their prognostic risk scores based on the model, patients were divided into three groups (score 0, 1–2, 3). Correlations of prognostic risk scores, clinicopathologic features and overall survival (OS) were analyzed. To study the clinical value of this stratification model in early disease recurrence or metastasis, 177 patients were screened out for further analysis. Based on disease free survival (DFS), 90 patients fell within the DFS ≤3 years group and 87 patients within the DFS ≥5 years group. We analyzed the differences in prognostic risk scores between the two groups. The prognostic risk scores were negatively related to tumor size, lymph node metastasis and P53 status (P < 0.001 for all). Patients with low prognostic risk scores had longer OS (P = 0.001). Using multivariate analysis, it was determined that TNM stage (HR = 0.432, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.281–0.665, P = 0.003), FOXP3 positive lymphocytes (HR = 1.712, 95% CI = 1.085–2.702, P = 0.021) and prognostic risk scores (HR = 1.340, 95% CI = 1.192–1.644, P = 0.005) were independent prognostic factors for OS. Compared with the DFS ≥5 years group, the DFS ≤3 years group patients had significantly higher prognostic risk scores (P < 0.001). In conclusion, the prognostic risk score of the model was a significant indicator of prognosis for patients with TNBC.
Some Equalities Are More Equal Than Others: Quality Equality Emerges Later Than Numerical Equality
Authors: Sheskin Mark , Nadal Amber , Croom Adam , Mayer Tanya , Nissel Jenny , Bloom Paul
Published: May 2016

By age 6, children typically share an equal number of resources between themselves and others. However, fairness involves not merely that each person receive an equal number of resources (“numerical equality”) but also that each person receive equal quality resources (“quality equality”). In Study 1, children (N = 87, 3–10 years) typically split four resources “two each” by age 6, but typically monopolized the better two resources until age 10. In Study 2, a new group of 6‐ to 8‐year‐olds (N = 32) allocated resources to third parties according to quality equality, indicating that children in this age group understand that fairness requires both types of equality.
Novel membrane‐tube type glaucoma shunt device for glaucoma surgery
Authors: Ahn Byung Heon , Hwang Young Hoon , Han Jong Chul
Published: May 2016

Background

The background of this study is to introduce the surgical technique and outcomes of a novel membrane‐tube (MT) type glaucoma shunt device (MicroMT), which was developed to achieve safer and more predictable intraocular pressure (IOP) control compared with conventional trabeculectomy.

Design

This is a retrospective, non‐comparative, interventional case series study.

Participants

The MicroMT was implanted in 43 glaucomatous eyes with insufficient IOP control despite medical treatment.

Methods

The MicroMT consists of an expanded polytetrafluoroethylene membrane and a silicone tube with an intraluminal stent, which allows aqueous drainage from the anterior chamber to the lamellar scleral flap. The intraluminal stent prevents excessive aqueous drainage and allows additional IOP reduction through retraction or removal of the stent.

Main Outcome Measures

The main outcome measures of this study are IOP changes and complications.

Results

The mean (SD) IOP decreased from a preoperative value of 22.5 (6.9) mmHg to 11.1 (3.6) mmHg 3 years after the operation (50.7% reduction from baseline; P < 0.01). Intraluminal stent removal 4 weeks after the operation induced an additional 40.2% IOP reduction (P < 0.01). When success was defined as an IOP between 6 and 21 mmHg, and an IOP reduction of ≥20% from baseline, the success rate was 89.5% at 3 years after the operation. No postoperative ocular hypotony (IOP <6 mmHg) or tube‐related complications occurred.

Conclusions

MicroMT implantation is a novel therapy that may reduce IOP safely and effectively, with no apparent risk of postoperative ocular hypotony. Glaucoma surgery using this device may be a good alternative to conventional glaucoma surgery.
Pre‐augmentation soft tissue expansion improves scaffold‐based vertical bone regeneration – a randomized study in dogs
Authors: Kaner Doğan , Zhao Han , Arnold Wolfgang , Terheyden Hendrik , Friedmann Anton
Published: May 2016

Objective

Soft tissue (ST) dehiscence with graft exposure is a frequent complication of vertical augmentation. Flap dehiscence is caused by failure to achieve tension‐free primary wound closure and by the impairment of flap microcirculation due to surgical trauma.

Soft tissue expansion (STE) increases ST quality and quantity prior to reconstructive surgery. We hypothesized that flap preconditioning using STE would reduce the incidence of ST complications after bone augmentation and that optimized ST healing would improve the outcome of bone regeneration.

Materials and methods

Self‐filling tissue expanders were implanted in mandibular bone defects in ten beagle dogs. After expansion, alloplastic scaffolds were placed for vertical bone augmentation in STE sites and in control sites without STE pre‐treatment. ST flap microcirculation was analysed using laser Doppler flowmetry. The incidence of graft exposures was evaluated after 2 weeks. Bone formation was assessed after 2 months, using histomorphometry and immunohistochemistry.

Results

Test sites showed significantly less impairment of perfusion and faster recovery of microcirculation after bone augmentation. Furthermore, no flap dehiscences occurred in STE sites. Bone regeneration was found in both groups; however, significantly greater formation of new bone was detected in test sites with preceding STE.

Conclusions

Preconditioning using STE improved ST healing and bone formation after vertical augmentation. The combination of STE and the subsequent placement of alloplastic scaffolds may facilitate the reconstruction of severe bone defects.
Allergic contact dermatitis caused by cocamide diethanolamine
Authors: Mertens Sarien , Gilissen Liesbeth , Goossens An
Published: May 2016

Background

Cocamide DEA (CAS no. 68603‐42‐9) is a non‐ionic surfactant frequently used in industrial, household and cosmetic products for its foam‐producing and stabilizing properties. Contact allergy has been reported quite rarely in the past, but recently several cases were published, raising the question of an increase in the frequency of allergic dermatitis caused by this substance.

Objectives

To describe cocamide DEA‐allergic patients and their characteristics observed in our department.

Methods

Medical charts of patients, investigated between 1990 and December 2015, were retrospectively reviewed for cocamide DEA‐allergy. Demographic characteristics and patch test results were analyzed.

Results

Out of 1767 patients tested, 18 (1%) presented with an allergic reaction to cocamide DEA, all of them at least with hand dermatitis. Twelve patients had (past) occupational exposure to cocamide DEA. Out of the 18 patients, 15 showed (most often) multiple positive reactions and 7 also suffered from atopic dermatitis.

Conclusions

Cocamide DEA allergy is relatively rare, despite frequent use, and an increasing trend was not observed. Reactions to cocamidopropyl betaine and cocamide MEA only occurred in some of the subjects tested. Shampoos and liquid hand soaps/cleansers dominated as sources of exposure. All patients presented with an impaired skin barrier due to atopic and/or previous contact dermatitis.
Osteopenic features of the hip joint in patients with cerebral palsy: a hospital‐based study
Authors: Moon Sang Young , Kwon Soon‐Sun , Cho Byung Chae , Chung Chin Youb , Lee Kyoung Min , Sung Ki Hyuk , Chung Myoung Ki , Zulkarnain Arif , Kim Yong Sung , Park Moon Seok
Published: May 2016

Aim

We aimed to evaluate the bone mineral density of the hip joint in patients with cerebral palsy (CP).

Method

Patients with CP younger than 18 years who underwent three‐dimensional hip examination by computed tomography were analysed. Bone attenuation of the acetabulum and femur was measured as Hounsfield units (HU), and was adjusted for affecting factors such as hip instability and Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS).

Results

One hundred and twenty‐six patients with CP and 86 typically developing participants were included. The average bone attenuation was significantly lower in those with CP than in the comparison group (acetabulum: 70.8HU, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 59.9–81.8; femur: 82.2HU, 95% CI 70.4–95.8). Compared with GMFCS levels I to III, bone attenuation was significantly lower for GMFCS levels IV (acetabulum: 30.9HU, 95% CI 15.7–46.2; femur: 39.7HU, 95% CI 19.9–59.5) and V (acetabulum: 51.7HU, 95% CI 35.9–67.5; femur: 72.5HU, 95% CI 51.9–93.0). The average bone attenuation decreased when the migration percentage was over 37% (acetabulum: 11.6HU, 95% CI 1.4–24.6; femur: 26.8HU, 95% CI 9.9–43.6).

Interpretation

Bone attenuation of the acetabulum and femur was significantly affected both by GMFCS level and by severity of hip instability.
Left Atrial Intrinsic Strain Rate Correcting for Pulmonary Wedge Pressure Is Accurate in Estimating Pulmonary Vascular Resistance in Breathless Patients
Authors: Tossavainen Erik , Henein Michael Y. , Grönlund Christer , Lindqvist Per
Published: May 2016

Objectives

We hypothesized that left atrial deformation during atrial systole (LASRa) correlates with pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP), thus enabling echo‐derived pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) estimation in a wide range of different subsets of patients.

Background

Various etiologies of pulmonary hypertension (PH) have different mechanisms and treatments for breathlessness. Irrespective of the location of the underlying pulmonary vascular pathology, pre‐ or postcapillary, the resulting PH is fairly easy to assess by Doppler echocardiography, but PVR remains a challenge.

Methods

We prospectively included 46 patients (mean age 61 ± 13 years) in sinus rhythm, who underwent right heart catheterization because of dyspnea. According to the NICE guidelines classification, 22 belonged to group 1 pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH), 19 belonged to group 2 congestive heart failure (CHF), 1 belonged to group 4 chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH), and 4 had normal hemodynamics. Simultaneous Doppler echocardiography using spectral, tissue Doppler, and speckle tracking echocardiography techniques for assessing LA structure and function was performed.

Results

PCWPrhc correlated with LASRa (r2 = 0.65, P < 0.001). PCWPecho was calculated using the equation (PCWPecho = 26.12 − 11.09 × LASRa), and the resulting PVR echo strongly correlated with the respective catheter‐based measurements PVRrhc (r2 = 0.69. P < 0.001) with a sensitivity of 85% and specificity of 74% identifying a PVR ≥ 3 WU.

Conclusions

Left atrial strain rate during atrial systole correlates closely with pulmonary capillary wedge pressure and consequently the calculated pulmonary vascular resistance, irrespective of the etiology of PH.
Clinical Utility of Atrial Electromechanical Conduction Time Measured with Speckle Tracking Echocardiography after Catheter Ablation in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation: A Validation Study with Electroanatomical Mapping
Authors: Fujii Akira , Inoue Katsuji , Nagai Takayuki , Nishimura Kazuhisa , Uetani Teruyoshi , Suzuki Jun , Funada Jun‐ichi , Okura Takafumi , Higaki Jitsuo , Ogimoto Akiyoshi
Published: May 2016

Purpose

Our recent report demonstrated that atrial electromechanical conduction time (EMT‐ε) measured with speckle tracking echocardiography could predict cardiac events in patients with pathological left ventricular hypertrophy. This study aimed to validate EMT‐ε by comparison with electroanatomical mapping and to investigate the clinical utility of EMT‐ε in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) undergoing catheter ablation.

Methods

Forty‐six patients with preserved LV ejection fraction (LVEF ≥ 50%) undergoing pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) for AF were studied. Atrial electrical conduction delay was determined by measuring atrial electrical activation time (EAT) using three‐dimensional electroanatomical mapping just after PVI. Echocardiographic parameters were acquired within 24 hours and at 6 months after PVI. The study also included 10 control subjects.

Results

AF patients had a larger left atrial (LA) volume index (LAVI) and more prolonged EMT‐ε compared with control subjects. According to the validation study, EAT was closely related to EMT‐ε and a′, and this association was independent of LAVI and the presence of persistent AF (EMT‐ε: R2 = 0.342, P < 0.0001, a′: R2 = 0.337, P < 0.0001). At 6 months after PVI, LAVI and EMT‐ε were significantly improved. During continued follow‐up beyond 6 months (total follow‐up, 26 ± 12 months), the EMT‐ε shortening at 6 months after PVI was significantly greater in AF‐free patients than patients with AF recurrence. Conclusions: This study suggested that the EMT‐ε could be a useful echocardiographic marker of LA electromechanical abnormalities in patients with AF.
Corruption, Financial Development and Economic Growth: Theory and Evidence From an Instrumental Variable Approach With Human Genetic Diversity
Authors: Kunieda Takuma , Okada Keisuke , Shibata Akihisa
Published: May 2016

Because the predicted human genetic diversity created by Ashraf and Galor (2013a; American Economic Review 103: 1–46) can be considered strictly exogenous in cross‐country growth regressions, we use it and its square as instrumental variables for corruption to investigate its impact on economic growth. Our empirical finding is that corruption has both a direct, negative impact on economic growth and an indirect, negative impact through financial development. Moreover, our evidence suggests that human genetic diversity is an origin of corruption, with a significant U‐shaped effect on corruption: when human traits are more homogeneous or more heterogeneous, corruption occurs more frequently, and when the diversity of human traits is at an intermediate level, corruption occurs less frequently. Our theoretical framework demonstrates the endogeneity problem associated with corruption, clarifying causality from financial development to corruption, and it supports empirical specifications, clarifying the channels through which corruption negatively affects economic growth.
Functional and structural stability are linked in phytoplankton metacommunities of different connectivity
Authors: Guelzow Nils , Muijsers Friso , Ptacnik Robert , Hillebrand Helmut
Published: May 2016

The diversity–stability debate is a long‐standing issue in ecology, asking whether more diverse communities show higher stability over time and more rapid recovery from disturbances. Connection to undisturbed habitats is thought to affect compositional and functional stability after disturbances. Therefore, we established marine phytoplankton metacommunities consisting of three microcosms (local patches), which were connected by tubes opened for different time intervals to create 5 levels of connectivity. We performed two experiments differing by homogeneous (HOM) or heterogeneous (HET) supply of irradiance across patches. As disturbance we either removed 75% of the algal biomass locally from one randomly chosen patch, or 25 or 75% regionally from each local patch. By comparing these treatments to an undisturbed control, we analyzed resilience (rate of recovery) and final recovery (recovery ratio) with regard to biomass (functional stability) and species composition (structural stability). In both experiments (HET, HOM), functional and structural aspects of stability responded significantly to connectivity and disturbance treatments. Functional resilience was enhanced by increasing connectivity (HET and HOM), which partially also increased functional recovery (HET) and structural resilience (HOM). By contrast, the treatment‐induced gradients in diversity (species richness and evenness) had no clear effect on functional resilience or recovery. Instead, structural and functional resilience were strongly correlated regardless of patch quality, indicating that only a full recovery in community composition ensured functional stability. Our findings suggest that connectivity plays a pivotal role in maintaining ecosystem stability under pulse disturbance such that a more complete understanding of stability requires spatially explicit approaches.
Effects of valproic acid on the placental barrier in the pregnant mouse: Optical imaging and transporter expression studies
Authors: Meir Michal , Bishara Ameer , Mann Aniv , Udi Shiran , Portnoy Emma , Shmuel Miri , Eyal Sara
Published: May 2016

Our aim was to evaluate the effects of valproic acid (VPA) on the function of the placental barrier in vivo, in pregnant mice. Studies were conducted on gestational days 12.5 (mid‐gestation) or 17.5 (late gestation), following intraperitoneal treatment with 200 mg/kg VPA or the vehicle. Indocyanine green (ICG; 0.167 mg, i.v.) was used as a marker for the placental barrier permeability. Transporter expression was evaluated by quantitative ‐PCR. VPA treatment was associated with a 40% increase (p < 0.05) in accumulation of ICG in maternal liver in mid‐pregnancy and a decrease by one fifth (p < 0.05) in late pregnancy. Ex vivo, VPA treatment led to a 20% increase (p < 0.05) in fetal ICG emission in mid‐pregnancy. Also in mid‐pregnancy, the placental expression of the L‐type amino acid transporter, the organic anion–transporting polypeptide (Oatp)4a1 (thyroid hormone transporter), and the reduced folate carrier was lower in VPA‐treated mice (p < 0.05). In late pregnancy, hepatic Oatp4a1 levels were 40% less than in controls (p > 0.05). The observed changes in placental transporter expression and function support further research into the potential role of the placenta in the adverse pregnancy outcomes of VPA. Near‐infrared imaging provides a noninvasive, nonradioactive tool for future studies on the effects of epilepsy and antiepileptic drugs on tissue transport functions.
Small‐Scale ASR Between Flow Barriers in a Saline Aquifer
Authors: van Ginkel Marloes , des Tombe Bas , Olsthoorn Theo , Bakker Mark
Published: May 2016

Regular aquifer storage recovery, ASR, is often not feasible for small‐scale storage in brackish or saline aquifers because fresh water floats to the top of the aquifer where it is unrecoverable. Flow barriers that partially penetrate a brackish or saline aquifer prevent a stored volume of fresh water from expanding sideways, thus increasing the recovery efficiency. In this paper, the groundwater flow and mixing is studied during injection, storage, and recovery of fresh water in a brackish or saline aquifer in a flow‐tank experiment and by numerical modeling to investigate the effect of density difference, hydraulic conductivity, pumping rate, cyclic operation, and flow barrier settings. Two injection and recovery methods are investigated: constant flux and constant head. Fresh water recovery rates on the order of 65% in the first cycle climbing to as much as 90% in the following cycles were achievable for the studied configurations with constant flux whereas the recovery efficiency was somewhat lower for constant head. The spatial variation in flow velocity over the width of the storage zone influences the recovery efficiency, because it induces leakage of fresh water underneath the barriers during injection and upconing of salt water during recovery.
Structural Modifications and Extended Spectral Response of CeO2/CoPc Nanocomposites for Potential Applications
Authors: Babitha Kurup Kuniyil , Priyanka Karathan Parakkandi , Jaseentha Oppuveettunkal Paily , Varghese Thomas , Sreedevi Aikkara
Published: May 2016

CeO2/CoPc nanocomposites were synthesized by simple chemical method. Thermal behavior of these nanocomposites was studied by thermogravimetric and differential thermal analysis. The as‐synthesized nanocomposite samples were characterized by various techniques. A decrease in band‐gap energy together with an improved absorption intensity of the composite material confirms the role of the cobalt phthalocyanine in the absorption properties of CeO2/CoPc composite. This study confirms structural modifications and extended spectral response of the synthesized CeO2/CoPc nanocomposites. The results demonstrate that CeO2/CoPc nanocomposite samples are promising materials for organic light‐emitting diodes, solar cells, and optoelectronic devices.
Audit Quality Perception: Beyond the ‘Role‐Perception Gap’
Authors: Gonthier‐Besacier Nathalie , Hottegindre Géraldine , Fine‐Falcy Sandrine
Published: May 2016

This paper measures differences in the perception of audit quality between professionals, and attempts to categorise the professionals on the basis of their perceptions. We firstly perform a REBUS‐PLS analysis. We thus identify three groups of professionals with different audit quality perceptions. We then run chi‐square tests to evaluate differences in perception depending firstly on the professional's role in the audit process (auditor vs. preparer) and then by incorporating other variables connected with the individuals’ own characteristics. Contrary to existing research, our study reveals no significant differences in perception between auditors and preparers. In contrast, our study indicates that differences in audit quality perception can be explained in particular by the professionals' level of expertise and the existence of shared values among professionals. This study therefore demonstrates the need to look beyond the ‘role‐perception gap’ in order to understand differences in audit quality perception. It confirms the existence of an ‘epistemic community’ that explains the differences in audit quality perception.
The Role of Self‐focused Attention and Negative Self‐thought in Interview Anxiety: A test of two interventions
Authors: Feiler Amanda R. , Powell Deborah M.
Published: May 2016

Job interview anxiety is an unpleasant experience for many candidates that can cause them significant distress in the days leading up to the interview. As a result, many candidates are motivated to overcome their feelings of anxiety, however, few empirical studies have examined strategies aimed at lowering nervous jitters. This study looked at the relation between interview anxiety and ‘self‐focused attention’ (the tendency to focus on oneself during the interview), and also negative self‐thoughts during the interview. We tested two training interventions that are grounded in the social anxiety literature, positive imagery (fostering positive self‐images), and field perspective taking (focusing attention externally), which were designed to reduce self‐focused attention and negative thought. Both interventions decreased interview anxiety and increased interview self‐efficacy, but did not affect interview performance scores.
The Influence of Candidate Social Effectiveness on Assessment Center Performance Ratings: A field study
Authors: Leugnerova Marcela , Vaculik Martin , Prochazka Jakub
Published: May 2016

The present research examined the influence of constructs representing social effectiveness on assessment center (AC) ratings in two samples. We expected different effects of self‐monitoring (SM) on different dimension ratings, a positive effect of the ability to identify criteria (ATIC) on the overall AC rating and a moderating effect of the ATIC on the relationship between SM and the dimension rating. Forty‐six (Study 1) and 115 (Study 2) applicants participated in ACs in field settings. Across both studies, SM had a negative effect on the integrity rating. No relationship was identified between SM and social sensitivity or problem solving ratings. In Study 1, the ATIC had a positive effect on the overall AC rating. No support was identified for a moderating effect of the ATIC on the relationship between SM and the social sensitivity rating.
Who is Being Judged Promotable: Good actors, high performers, highly committed or birds of a feather?
Authors: Gurbuz Sait , Habiboglu O. Serhad , Bingol Dursun
Published: May 2016

The present study investigated the impact of task performance, affective commitment, impression management tactics, and similarity to supervisor on promotability judgments in a collectivist context (i.e., Turkey). Longitudinal and multisource field‐data obtained from 205 subordinates and their 35 supervisors indicated that task performance, affective commitment, and similarity to supervisor influenced supervisors’ ratings of promotability. Yet no significant relationships were found between IM tactics and the promotability judgments. Furthermore, the results revealed a stronger influence of similarity to supervisor on promotion decisions in a collectivist culture.
Wolbachia‐mediated protection against viruses in the invasive pest Drosophila suzukii
Authors: Cattel J. , Martinez J. , Jiggins F. , Mouton L. , Gibert P.
Published: May 2016

The maternally inherited bacterium Wolbachia is well known for spreading in natural populations by manipulating the reproduction of its arthropod hosts, but can also have mutualist effects that increase host fitness. In mosquitoes and Drosophila some Wolbachia strains can lead to an increase in survival of virus‐infected insects, and in most cases this is associated with reduced accumulation of the virus in host tissues. We investigated if the Wolbachia strain wSuz, which naturally infects Drosophila suzukii, is able to confer protection against Drosophila C virus and Flock House virus in different host genetic backgrounds. We found that this strain can increase host survival upon infection with these two viruses. In some cases this effect was associated with lower viral titres, suggesting that it confers resistance to the viruses rather than allowing the flies to tolerate infection. Our results indicate that, in D. suzukii, the antiviral protection provided by Wolbachia is not correlated to its density as found in other Drosophila species. This study demonstrates a phenotypic effect induced by wSuz on its native host which could explain its maintenance in natural populations of D. suzukii.
Multiobjective evolutionary algorithms for energy and service level scheduling in a federation of distributed datacenters
Authors: Iturriaga Santiago , Dorronsoro Bernabé , Nesmachnow Sergio
Published: May 2016

This article studies the application of multiobjective evolutionary algorithms for solving the energy‐aware scheduling problem of workflows in a distributed system that is composed by a federation of datacenters. Nowadays, energy efficiency is a major concern when using large distributed computing systems, including novel grid and cloud computing facilities. Researchers and system planners are looking for accurate methods to be used for planning the execution of large workloads that consume large amounts of resources, having a direct implications for the energy consumption of the system and its operational costs. In the approach proposed in this article, we study the application of multiobjective evolutionary algorithms combined with low‐level backfilling heuristics for finding efficient mappings of workflows into resources in order to maximize several metrics related to the quality of service, while reducing the energy required for computation. The experimental evaluation is performed considering both medium and large workloads that model realistic high‐performance computing applications and modern distributed computing infrastructures. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed multiobjective evolutionary approaches compute accurate schedules, significantly outperforming both traditional round‐robin/load‐balancing schedulers and a set of combined list scheduling heuristics (accounting for both problem objectives) previously applied to the problem.
Scaling Effects in Sodium Zirconium Silicate Phosphate (Na1+xZr2SixP3−xO12) Ion‐Conducting Thin Films
Authors: Ihlefeld Jon F. , Gurniak Emily , Jones Brad H. , Wheeler David R. , Rodriguez Mark A. , McDaniel Anthony H.
Published: May 2016

Preparation of sodium zirconium silicate phosphate (NaSICon), Na1+xZr2SixP3−xO12 (0.25 ≤ x ≤ 1.0), thin films has been investigated via a chemical solution approach on platinized silicon substrates. Increasing the silicon content resulted in a reduction in the crystallite size and a reduction in the measured ionic conductivity. Processing temperature was also found to affect microstructure and ionic conductivity with higher processing temperatures resulting in larger crystallite sizes and higher ionic conductivities. The highest room temperature sodium ion conductivity was measured for an x = 0.25 composition at 2.3 × 10−5 S/cm. The decreasing ionic conductivity trends with increasing silicon content and decreasing processing temperature are consistent with grain boundary and defect scattering of conducting ions.
Self over time: another difference between borderline personality disorder and bipolar disorder
Authors: Borda Juan P.
Published: May 2016

Rationale, aims and objectives

The nature of the relationship between bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder has been an intense field of debate in the last two decades. Current diagnostic classifications approach this complex phenomenon using syndromatic definitions based on presence or absence of a restricted set of signs or symptoms that have demonstrated low specificity. One of the several utilities of the phenomenological method in psychiatry is to complement the clinical panorama, helping in the process of identifying potential differences between two separated clinical syndromes. The main objective of this publication is to explore one particular clinical difference between these two conditions – that is, the experience of self‐continuity and time perception.

Methods

the argument explored in this paper is based on previous second‐person or phenomenological accounts of sufferers of both conditions.

Results and Conclusions

Whereas borderline personality disorder patients tend to experience only the present moment, referring frequent difficulties of drawing experiences of the past in order to determine their own future, bipolar disorder patients are constantly worried about the contradictions in their past experiences and the latent risk of losing control of themselves in future episodes of their disease. This contrast should be, however, corroborated in future research comparing directly the two groups in terms of the continuity of the self and their temporal structures.
Synaptic signalling and its interface with neuropathologies: snapshots from the past, present and future
Authors: Beart Philip M.
Published: May 2016

This ‘Past to Future’ Review as part of the 60th anniversary year of the Journal of Neurochemistry focuses on synaptic transmission and associated signalling, and seeks to identify seminal progress in neurochemistry over the last 10 years which has advanced our understanding of neuronal communication in brain. The approach adopted analyses neurotransmitters on a case by case basis (i.e. amino acids, monoamines, acetylcholine, neuropeptides, ATP/purines and gasotransmitters) to highlight novel findings that have changed the way we view each type of transmitter, to explore commonalities and interactions, and to note how new insights have changed the way we view the biology of degenerative, psychiatric and behavioural conditions. Across all transmitter systems there was remarkable growth in the identification of targets likely to provide therapeutic benefit and which undoubtedly was driven by the elucidation of circuit function and new vistas of synaptic signalling. There has been an increasing trend to relate signalling to disease, notably for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease and related conditions, and which has occurred for each transmitter family. Forebrain circuitry and tonic excitatory control have been the centre of great attention yielding novel findings that will impact upon cognitive, emotional and addictive behaviours. Other impressive insights focus on gasotransmitters integrating activity as volume transmitters. Exciting developments in how serotonin, cholinergic, l‐glutamate, galanin and adenosine receptors and their associated signalling can be beneficially targeted should underpin the development of new therapies. Clearly integrated, multifaceted neurochemistry has changed the way we view synaptic signalling and its relevance to pathobiology.

image

Highlighted are important advances in synaptic signalling over the last decade in the Journal of Neurochemistry. Across all transmitter systems elucidation of circuit function, and notably molecular insights, have underpinned remarkable growth in the identification of targets likely to provide therapeutic benefit in neuropathologies. Another commonality was wide interest in forebrain circuitry and its tonic excitatory control. Increasingly observations relate to signalling in disease and behavioural conditions.

This article is part of the 60th Anniversary special issue.
The Intergenerational Transference of Money Attitudes and Behaviors
Authors: Britt Sonya L.
Published: May 2016

The purpose of this report is to provide resources to financial educators working with consumers surrounding intergenerational influences in the development of financial attitudes and behaviors. Financial decisions are influenced by our attitudes, which are highly influenced by cultural issues, including family, ethnicity, gender, and socioeconomic status. Understanding these influences is important as financial educators implement effective intervention techniques. This paper was completed under contract with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's Office of Financial Education, in support of its mission to improve the effectiveness of financial education. According to the CFPB, financial educators are unclear how to implement soft skills into practice due to a lack of experiential training. This report outlines strategies financial planners and educators can incorporate into their practice to assist clients in identifying the intergenerational patterns of money attitudes and behaviors.
The diagnosis of attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder in Australian children: Current paediatric practice and parent perspective
Authors: Efron Daryl , Sciberras Emma , Hiscock Harriet , Jongeling Brad , Lycett Kate , Bisset Matthew , Smith Grant
Published: May 2016

Aims

In a sample of newly diagnosed children with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the aims were to examine (1) paediatrician assessment and management practices; (2) previous assessments and interventions; (3) correspondence between parent‐report and paediatrician identification of comorbidities; and (4) parent agreement with diagnosis of ADHD.

Methods

Design: cross‐sectional, multi‐site practice audit with questionnaires completed by paediatricians and parents at the point of ADHD diagnosis. Setting: private/public paediatric practices in Western Australia and Victoria, Australia. Main outcome measures: paediatricians: elements of assessment and management were indicated on a study‐designed data form. Parents: ADHD symptoms and comorbidities were measured using the Conners 3 ADHD Index and Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, respectively. Sleep problems, previous assessments and interventions, and agreement with ADHD diagnosis were measured by questionnaire.

Results

Twenty‐four paediatricians participated, providing data on 137 patients (77% men, mean age 8.1 years). Parent and teacher questionnaires were used in 88% and 85% of assessments, respectively. Medication was prescribed in 75% of cases. Comorbidities were commonly diagnosed (70%); however, the proportion of patients identified by paediatricians with internalising problems (18%), externalising problems (15%) and sleep problems (4%) was less than by parent report (51%, 66% and 39%). One in seven parents did not agree with the diagnosis of ADHD.

Conclusions

Australian paediatric practice in relation to ADHD assessment is generally consistent with best practice guidelines; however, improvements are needed in relation to the routine use of questionnaires and the identification of comorbidities. A proportion of parents do not agree with the diagnosis of ADHD made by their paediatrician.
High ambient temperature and risk of intestinal obstruction in cystic fibrosis
Authors: Ooi Chee Y , Jeyaruban Christina , Lau Jasmine , Katz Tamarah , Matson Angela , Bell Scott C , Adams Susan E , Krishnan Usha
Published: May 2016

Aims

Distal intestinal obstruction syndrome (DIOS) and constipation in cystic fibrosis (CF) are conditions associated with impaction and/or obstruction by abnormally viscid mucofaecal material within the intestinal lumen. Dehydration has been proposed as a risk factor for DIOS and constipation in CF. The study primarily aimed to determine whether warmer ambient temperature and lower rainfall are risk factors for DIOS and constipation in CF.

Methods

Hospitalisations for DIOS (incomplete or complete) and/or constipation were retrospectively identified (2000–2012). Genotype, phenotype, temperatures and rainfall data (for the week preceding and season of hospitalisation) were collected.

Results

Twenty‐seven DIOS (59.3% incomplete; 40.7% complete) and 44 constipation admissions were identified. All admitted patients were pancreatic insufficient. Meconium ileus was significantly more likely in DIOS than constipation (64.7% vs. 33.3%; P = 0.038) and in complete than incomplete DIOS (100% vs. 57.1%; P = 0.04). The maximum temperature of the week before DIOS admission (mean (standard deviation) = 28.0 (5.8) °C) was significantly higher than the maximum temperature of the season of admission (25.2 (3.4) °C; P = 0.002). Similarly, the maximum temperature of the week before hospitalisation for constipation (mean (standard deviation) = 27.9 (6.3) °C) was significantly warmer compared with the season of admission (24.0 (4.1) °C; P < 0.0001). There were no significant differences between levels of rainfall during the week before hospitalisation and the season of admission for both DIOS and constipation.

Conclusions

Relatively high ambient temperature may play a role in the pathogenesis of DIOS and constipation in CF.
Formula and breast feeding in infant food allergy: A population‐based study
Authors: Goldsmith Alice J , Koplin Jennifer J , Lowe Adrian J , Tang Mimi LK , Matheson Melanie C , Robinson Marnie , Peters Rachel , Dharmage Shyamali C , Allen Katrina J
Published: May 2016

Aim

To determine whether infant‐feeding practices, including duration of exclusive breastfeeding and use of partially hydrolysed formula, modify the risk of developing infant food allergy.

Methods

In an observational population‐based study, 1 year olds were recruited from community immunisation clinics in Melbourne, Australia. Parent‐reported data on infant‐feeding practices and potential confounders were collected prior to infant skin prick testing for four food allergens. Sensitised infants attended hospital‐based oral food challenges to establish food allergy status. Multiple logistic regression was used to investigate associations between breastfeeding and formula‐feeding and infant food allergy adjusting for possible confounding variables.

Results

A total of 5276 (74% response) infants participated. Of the 4537 for whom food allergy status was determined, 515 (11.3%) were food allergic (challenge‐proven in the context of skin prick testing positive (≥2 mm)). After adjusting for confounding variables, there was no association between duration of exclusive breastfeeding and food allergy. Use of partially hydrolysed formula did not reduce the risk of food allergy compared with cow's milk formula in the general population (adjusted odds ratios 1.03 (confidence interval 0.67–1.50)).

Conclusion

Duration of exclusive breastfeeding and use of partially hydrolysed formula were not associated with food allergy at 1 year of age in this large population‐based study. These findings have implications for population‐based infant‐feeding guidelines and do not support the use of partially hydrolysed formula for food allergy prevention.
Association between waist circumference and childhood‐masked hypertension: A community‐based study
Authors: So Hung‐Kwan , Yip Gabriel Wai‐Kwok , Choi Kai‐Chow , Li Albert M , Leung Lettie Chuk‐Kwan , Wong Sik‐Nin , Sung Rita Yn‐Tz ,   on behalf of the Hong Kong ABP Working Group
Published: May 2016

Aim

The aim of this study is to determine the association between waist circumference (WC) and childhood‐masked hypertension.

Methods

A territory‐wide, school‐based cohort of 1385 Hong Kong students (672 boys and 713 girls) aged 8–17 years was analysed. The ambulatory blood pressure‐monitoring assessment was performed using validated oscillometric recorders (A&D TM‐2430 (A&D Inc., Tokyo, Japan)) following American Heart Association's recommendations. Subjects were considered normotensive if their casual blood pressure, 24‐h daytime and night‐time average systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were <95th percentile. If one or more of the ambulatory blood pressure parameters was ≥95th percentile, subjects would be considered suffering from masked hypertension (MH). Subjects who had three successive casual blood pressure measurements above the 95th percentile were excluded.

Results

By body mass index, 148 (10.7%) subjects were obese, 182 (13.1%) overweight and 359 (25.9%) having larger WC (≥85th percentiles). MH was diagnosed in 217 subjects (15.7%). Subjects with larger WC or obesity were significantly associated with higher 24‐h daytime and night‐time systolic blood pressure (≥95th percentile) (odds ratios from 1.84 to 2.09 and from 2.07 to 3.54 for larger WC and obese respectively, all P < 0.05) as well as 24‐h DBP for larger WC (odds ratio = 2, P = 0.015) than normal subjects adjusted by sex, age and height.

Conclusion

Waist circumference and body mass index are independent risk factors of childhood and adolescent MH. WC appears a significant associated factor of elevated 24‐h DBP in children aged 8–17 years.
Diagnosing autism: Contemporaneous surveys of parent needs and paediatric practice
Authors: Hennel Sabine , Coates Cathy , Symeonides Christos , Gulenc Alisha , Smith Libby , Price Anna MH , Hiscock Harriet
Published: May 2016

Aim

Concurrence between parents' information needs and clinicians' practice when diagnosing autism is unknown but may influence families' uptake of management and adjustment. We aimed to compare parents' experience and preferences with paediatrician report of (i) diagnosis delivery and (ii) information given at diagnosis and identify types and usefulness of resources accessed by families post‐diagnosis.

Methods

The design used for the study are parent and paediatrician surveys. Participants are parents of children aged 1.5–18 years, diagnosed with autism between 01 January 2010 and 30 September 2012 and their paediatricians who are members of the Australian Paediatric Research Network. Study‐designed quantitative and qualitative questions about diagnosis delivery and information given at diagnosis (written and spoken vs. neither) and parent perceived importance and harms of information accessed post‐diagnosis.

Results

Paediatricians (53/198 (27%)) identified 1127 eligible families, of whom 404 (36%) participated. Parents were more likely to report receiving adequate time to discuss diagnosis than paediatricians (71 vs. 51%). Parents (98%) rated information about accessing allied health professionals and the meaning of diagnosis as most important, yet paediatricians offered written or spoken information about each infrequently (allied health: 22%; diagnosis: 42%). Post‐diagnosis, allied health was the most important source of information (83%). Harmful resources conveyed helplessness or non‐evidenced‐based therapies, but few parents (14%) reported this.

Conclusions

Parents want more information than can be conveyed in a single diagnostic consultation. Developing a tailored ‘autism action plan’ with written materials could improve parents' understanding of and satisfaction with children's autism diagnoses.
Interstitial lung disease in infancy: A general approach
Authors: Hines Erica J , Walsh Mark , Armes Jane E , Douglas Tonia , Chawla Jasneek
Published: May 2016

Childhood Interstitial lung disease (chILD) is an umbrella term used to define a broad range of rare, diffuse pulmonary disorders with altered interstitial structure that leads to abnormal gas exchange. Presentation of chILD in infancy can be difficult to differentiate from other common causes of diffuse lung disease. This article aimed at paediatricians provides an overview of interstitial lung disease presenting in infancy and includes key clinical features, a suggested approach to investigation and a summary of management. An overview of three clinical cases has been included to demonstrate the diagnostic approach, characteristic investigation findings and varied clinical outcomes.