bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Blood Purification and Differential Injection Sites of Cold Saline on Transpulmonary Thermodilution Values
Authors: Kawaji Takahiro , Sakai Toshikazu , Moriyama Kazuhiro , Hara Yoshitaka , Nakamura Tomoyuki , Kuriyama Naohide , Shimomura Yasuyo , Kato Yu , Komura Hidefumi , Yamashita Chizuru , Kurimoto Yasuyoshi , Hasegawa Daisuke , Nishida Osamu
Published: May 2018

We aimed to investigate the effects of blood purification and cold saline injection sites on the transpulmonary thermodilution values. We measured the cardiac output of eight pigs in every combination of cold saline injection (left jugular and femoral veins) and blood purification sites (right jugular and femoral veins), with or without blood purification. We examined the influence of the difference between the presence and absence of blood purification, vascular sites for blood purification, and sites for cold saline injection on the transpulmonary thermodilution values. Cardiac output measured during blood purification using transpulmonary thermodilution was underestimated; however, there was no difference between vascular sites. Cardiac output measured via injection of cold saline into the femoral vein was higher than that obtained through injection of cold saline into the jugular vein, with or without blood purification.
Historical and Future Stream Temperature Change Predicted by a Lidar‐Based Assessment of Riparian Condition and Channel Width
Authors: Seixas Gustav B. , Beechie Timothy J. , Fogel Caleb , Kiffney Peter M.
Published: May 2018

Riparian forests attenuate solar radiation, thereby mediating an important component of the thermal budget of streams. Here, we investigate the relationship between riparian degradation, stream temperature, and channel width in the Chehalis River Basin, Washington State. We used lidar data to measure canopy opening angle, the angle formed between the channel center and trees on both banks; we assumed historical tree heights and calculated the change in canopy angle relative to historical conditions. We then developed an empirical relationship between canopy angle and water temperature using existing data, and simulated temperatures between 2002 and 2080 by combining a tree growth model with climate change scenarios from the NorWeST regional prediction. The greatest change between historical and current conditions (~7°C) occurred in developed portions of the river network, with the highest values of change predicted at channel widths less than ~40 m. Tree growth lessened climate change increases in maximum temperature and the length of river exceeding biologically critical thresholds by ~50%–60%. Moreover, the maximum temperature of channels with bankfull widths less than ~50 m remained similar to current conditions, despite climate change increases. Our findings are consistent with a possible role for the riparian landscape in explaining the low sensitivity of stream temperatures to air temperatures observed in some small mountain streams.
New insights in phytoplasma‐vector interaction: acquisition and inoculation of flavescence dorée phytoplasma by Scaphoideus titanus adults in a short window of time
Authors: Alma A. , Lessio F. , Gonella E. , Picciau L. , Mandrioli M. , Tota F.
Published: May 2018

The leafhopper Scaphoideus titanus is able to transmit 16SrV phytoplasmas agents of grapevine's flavescence dorée (FD) within 30–45 days, following an acquisition access period (AAP) of a few days feeding on infected plants as a nymph, a latency period (LP) of 3–5 weeks becoming meanwhile an adult, and an inoculation access period (IAP) of a few days on healthy plants. However, several aspects of FD epidemiology suggest how the whole transmission process may take less time, and may start directly with adults of the insect vector. Transmission experiments have been set up under lab condition. Phytoplasma‐free S. titanus adults were placed on broad bean (BB) plants (Vicia faba) infected by FD‐C (16SrV‐C) phytoplasmas for an AAP = 7 days. Afterwards, they were immediately moved onto healthy BB for IAP, which were changed every 7 days, obtaining three timings of inoculation: IAP 1, IAP 2 and IAP 3, lasting 7, 14 and 21 days from the end of AAP, respectively. DNA was extracted from plants and insects, and PCR tests were performed to identify FD phytoplasmas. Insects were dissected and fluorescence in situ hybridisation was made to detect the presence of phytoplasmas in midguts and salivary glands. The rate of infection in insects ranged 46–68% without significant differences among IAPs. Inoculation in plants succeeded in all IAPs, at a rate of 16–23% (no significant differences). Phytoplasma load was significantly higher in IAP 3 than IAP 1–2 for both plants and insects. Phytoplasmas were identified both in midgut and salivary glands of S. titanus at all IAP times. The possible implications of these results in the epidemiology of flavescence dorée are discussed.
Acute tau knockdown in the hippocampus of adult mice causes learning and memory deficits
Authors: Velazquez Ramon , Ferreira Eric , Tran An , Turner Emily C. , Belfiore Ramona , Branca Caterina , Oddo Salvatore
Published: May 2018

Misfolded and hyperphosphorylated tau accumulates in several neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer's disease, frontotemporal dementia with Parkinsonism, corticobasal degeneration, progressive supranuclear palsy, Down syndrome, and Pick's disease. Tau is a microtubule‐binding protein, and its role in microtubule stabilization is well defined. In contrast, while growing evidence suggests that tau is also involved in synaptic physiology, a complete assessment of tau function in the adult brain has been hampered by robust developmental compensation of other microtubule‐binding proteins in tau knockout mice. To circumvent these developmental compensations and assess the role of tau in the adult brain, we generated an adeno‐associated virus (AAV) expressing a doxycycline‐inducible short‐hairpin (Sh) RNA targeted to tau, herein referred to as AAV‐ShRNATau. We performed bilateral stereotaxic injections in 7‐month‐old C57Bl6/SJL wild‐type mice with either the AAV‐ShRNATau or a control AAV. We found that acute knockdown of tau in the adult hippocampus significantly impaired motor coordination and spatial memory. Blocking the expression of the AAV‐ShRNATau, thereby allowing tau levels to return to control levels, restored motor coordination and spatial memory. Mechanistically, the reduced tau levels were associated with lower BDNF levels, reduced levels of synaptic proteins associated with learning, and decreased spine density. We provide compelling evidence that tau is necessary for motor and cognitive function in the adult brain, thereby firmly supporting that tau loss‐of‐function may contribute to the clinical manifestations of many tauopathies. These findings have profound clinical implications given that anti‐tau therapies are in clinical trials for Alzheimer's disease.
Global statistics on alcohol, tobacco and illicit drug use: 2017 status report
Authors: Peacock Amy , Leung Janni , Larney Sarah , Colledge Samantha , Hickman Matthew , Rehm Jürgen , Giovino Gary A. , West Robert , Hall Wayne , Griffiths Paul , Ali Robert , Gowing Linda , Marsden John , Ferrari Alize J. , Grebely Jason , Farrell Michael , Degenhardt Louisa
Published: May 2018

Aims

This review provides an up‐to‐date curated source of information on alcohol, tobacco and illicit drug use and their associated mortality and burden of disease. Limitations in the data are also discussed, including how these can be addressed in the future.

Methods

Online data sources were identified through expert review. Data were obtained mainly from the World Health Organization, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation.

Results

In 2015, the estimated prevalence among the adult population was 18.4% for heavy episodic alcohol use (in the past 30 days); 15.2% for daily tobacco smoking; and 3.8, 0.77, 0.37 and 0.35% for past‐year cannabis, amphetamine, opioid and cocaine use, respectively. European regions had the highest prevalence of heavy episodic alcohol use and daily tobacco use. The age‐standardized prevalence of alcohol dependence was 843.2 per 100 000 people; for cannabis, opioids, amphetamines and cocaine dependence it was 259.3, 220.4, 86.0 and 52.5 per 100 000 people, respectively. High‐income North America region had among the highest rates of cannabis, opioid and cocaine dependence. Attributable disability‐adjusted life‐years (DALYs) were highest for tobacco smoking (170.9 million DALYs), followed by alcohol (85.0 million) and illicit drugs (27.8 million). Substance‐attributable mortality rates were highest for tobacco smoking (110.7 deaths per 100 000 people), followed by alcohol and illicit drugs (33.0 and 6.9 deaths per 100 000 people, respectively). Attributable age‐standardized mortality rates and DALYs for alcohol and illicit drugs were highest in eastern Europe; attributable age‐standardized tobacco mortality rates and DALYs were highest in Oceania.

Conclusions

In 2015 alcohol use and tobacco smoking use between them cost the human population more than a quarter of a billion disability‐adjusted life years, with illicit drugs costing further tens of millions. Europeans suffered proportionately more, but in absolute terms the mortality rate was greatest in low‐ and middle‐income countries with large populations and where the quality of data was more limited. Better standardized and rigorous methods for data collection, collation and reporting are needed to assess more accurately the geographical and temporal trends in substance use and its disease burden.
The economic impacts of technology and climate change: New evidence from U.S. corn yields
Authors: Huffman Wallace E. , Jin Yu , Xu Zheng
Published: May 2018

Over the past century, U.S. farmers have been offered a steady stream of new agricultural technologies, and more recently, experienced climate change. Because these two events have been occurring simultaneously, identifying their separate effects is difficult, and misimputation is easy. This article explicitly examines the economics of technical change and the interaction between weather and technology as revealed in a half century of panel data on U.S. Midwest rainfed state‐average corn yields. Observed yields reflect two components: yield potential and damage to the potential caused by weather and pests. Yield potential is modeled as a stochastic production frontier where nitrogen fertilization, public corn research, and introduction and adoption of biotech corn seeds impact yield potential and excess heat impacts nitrogen productivity. The yield‐damage/damage‐control function permits biotech corn plants to abate adverse effects of weather and pest events. Results include the following: nitrogen use, public corn research, and biotech seed‐corn adoption increase yield potential; soil moisture stress reduces yield potential, and excess heat severely reduces nitrogen productivity. Biotech corn plants abate yield damage caused by soil moisture stress but not excess heat.
Methylation of PCDH19 predicts poor prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Ting , Guan Guiwen , Chen Tingting , Jin Jingling , Zhang Lichun , Yao Mingjie , Qi Xuewei , Zou Jun , Chen Jiacheng , Lu Fengmin , Chen Xiangmei
Published: May 2018

Objective

Several members of protocadherins (PCDHs) have been identified as tumor suppressor genes in human carcinogenesis, but little is known about PCDH19. The aim of the present study was to assess the expression and methylation of PCDH19 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

The RNA‐seq data from The Cancer Genome Atlas Database were downloaded and used for analyzing PCDH19 expression in HCC patients and normal liver tissues. We collected 63 paired tumor and nontumor liver tissues from hepatitis B virus‐related HCC patients. The expression of PCDH19 was detected by real‐time quantitative RT‐PCR assay. The methylation of PCDH19 gene was analyzed by DNA methylation‐sensitive endonuclease digestion and the sequential quantitative PCR. The prognostic value of PCDH19 gene methylation was evaluated by Kaplan–Meier analyses.

Results

PCDH19 expression was downregulated in HCC tissues and seven HCC cell lines compared to nontumor tissues. PCHD19 promoter was frequently hypermethylated in three (SMMC7721, Hep3B and SNU387) of seven HCC cell lines and 5‐aza‐dC treatment could significantly increased the PCDH19 expression in these methylated cells. In addition, HCC tumor tissues exhibited significantly increased PCDH19 hypermethylation both in frequency (30.15% vs 9.52%, P = 0.003) and in intensity (P = 0.002) compared to that in nontumor tissues. Kaplan‐Meier survival analysis revealed that PCDH19 hypermethylation was correlated with the poor overall survival of HCC patients.

Conclusion

PCDH19 expression was downregulated in HCC, which was mediated at least in part by promoter hypermethylation. PCDH19 hypermethylation might present a potential prognostic marker in HCC patients.
The interplay between risk and preventive factors explains why some children develop allergies to certain foods and others show tolerance
Authors: Remes Sami , Kulmala Petri
Published: May 2018

Aim

A number of studies have clarified the tolerance mechanisms and risk factors for food allergies. Our aim was to explore food allergy symptoms by target organs, together with the risk factors and how to prevent food allergies and induce tolerance.

Methods

We carried out a thorough review of studies on paediatric food allergies published in the last decade.

Results

Food allergy symptoms may affect the skin, nasal and oral mucosa, conjunctivae, gastrointestinal tract or, in severe cases, the respiratory tract and cardiovascular organs. Immunoglobulin E (IgE)‐mediated symptoms appear rapidly after exposure to the offending allergen, whereas non‐IgE‐mediated symptoms are typically delayed. The immunological processes involved in non‐IgE‐mediated allergic reactions are poorly understood, but T‐cell activation is probably involved. There are several factors that influence the food sensitisation process: genetic predisposition, disruption of oral tolerance development, impaired skin barriers in atopic eczema and the influence of microbiomes.

Conclusion

The symptoms and intensity of reactions vary considerably with regard to food allergies, and these depend on the individual's concomitant immunological and regulatory mechanisms. There is strong evidence that dietary diversity is important for children, even when they come from families with high allergy risks.
Order Selection and Sparsity in Latent Variable Models via the Ordered Factor LASSO
Authors: Hui Francis K. C. , Tanaka Emi , Warton David I.
Published: May 2018

Generalized linear latent variable models (GLLVMs) offer a general framework for flexibly analyzing data involving multiple responses. When fitting such models, two of the major challenges are selecting the order, that is, the number of factors, and an appropriate structure for the loading matrix, typically a sparse structure. Motivated by the application of GLLVMs to study marine species assemblages in the Southern Ocean, we propose the Ordered Factor LASSO or OFAL penalty for order selection and achieving sparsity in GLLVMs. The OFAL penalty is the first penalty developed specifically for order selection in latent variable models, and achieves this by using a hierarchically structured group LASSO type penalty to shrink entire columns of the loading matrix to zero, while ensuring that non-zero loadings are concentrated on the lower-order factors. Simultaneously, individual element sparsity is achieved through the use of an adaptive LASSO. In conjunction with using an information criterion which promotes aggressive shrinkage, simulation shows that the OFAL penalty performs strongly compared with standard methods and penalties for order selection, achieving sparsity, and prediction in GLLVMs. Applying the OFAL penalty to the Southern Ocean marine species dataset suggests the available environmental predictors explain roughly half of the total covariation between species, thus leading to a smaller number of latent variables and increased sparsity in the loading matrix compared to a model without any covariates.
Investigational agents in immunotherapy: a new horizon for the treatment of multiple myeloma
Authors: Varga Cindy , Laubach Jacob P. , Anderson Kenneth C. , Richardson Paul G.
Published: May 2018

The treatment of multiple myeloma (MM) has gone through several major advances over the last 5 years with the introduction of next generation proteasome inhibitors (PI; carfilzomib, ixazomib) and immunomodulatory derivatives (IMiD; pomalidomide), with these new agents having a substantial impact on patient outcome. However, despite these advances, MM remains a highly resistant disease given its propensity for clonal heterogeneity and its complex interaction with the surrounding bone marrow microenvironment. Almost all patients eventually relapse despite therapeutic responses to a PI, IMiD or both. With the regulatory approval of the monoclonal antibodies Daratumumab and Elotuzumab in 2015, impressive and durable responses are being observed, even in heavily pre‐treated patients who have exhausted other therapeutic options, suggesting immunological approaches in this setting have real merit. This review will focus on newer monoclonal antibodies and chimeric‐antigen receptor (CAR) T cell strategies currently under investigation and in various stages of clinical development.
Therapies based on targeting Epstein‐Barr virus lytic replication for EBV‐associated malignancies
Authors: Li Hongde , Hu Jianmin , Luo Xiangjian , Bode Ann M. , Dong Zigang , Cao Ya
Published: May 2018

In recent years, Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) lytic infection has been shown to significantly contribute to carcinogenesis. Thus, therapies aimed at targeting the EBV lytic cycle have been developed as novel strategies for treatment of EBV‐associated malignancies. In this review, focusing on the viral lytic proteins, we describe recent advances regarding the involvement of the EBV lytic cycle in carcinogenesis. Moreover, we further discuss 2 distinct EBV lytic cycle‐targeted therapeutic strategies against EBV‐induced malignancies. One of the strategies involves inhibition of the EBV lytic cycle by natural compounds known to have anti‐EBV properties; another is to intentionally induce EBV lytic replication in combination with nucleotide analogues. Recent advances in EBV lytic‐based strategies are beginning to show promise in the treatment and/or prevention of EBV‐related tumors.
Early school leaving in the care population—Differences by country of origin
Authors: Dæhlen Marianne , Rugkåsa Marianne
Published: May 2018

In many Western countries, children in immigrant families are considered at increased risk of experiencing social problems and marginalization and are often overrepresented in the care population. How these children fare in the educational system is crucial for their future adult life. International research over several decades has shown that many child welfare clients quit school prematurely, but less is known about their educational progress by country of origin. Based on a large‐scale longitudinal study from Norway, this article examines early school leaving between ethnic minority groups and the ethnic majority in the child welfare population. The results show substantial differences in early school leaving by country of origin, even when adjusted for any differences by gender, school grades, and parental educational level. The lowest rate of early school leaving was found among youths originating from Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and Pakistan, whereas youths originating from Afghanistan, South America, Morocco, Western countries, and Norway (i.e., the ethnic majority) had the highest rate of early school leaving.
Population models reveal unexpected patterns of local persistence despite widespread larval dispersal in a highly exploited species
Authors: Garavelli Lysel , White J. Wilson , Chollett Iliana , Chérubin Laurent Marcel
Published: May 2018

Nearshore marine populations are structured in metapopulations that are connected through larval dispersal across national boundaries. One of the main challenges for effective management of these metapopulations is the need for partnerships between nations that share the same resource. By coupling large‐scale connectivity information to a dynamic population model, we analyzed the patterns of connectivity and population persistence for the Caribbean spiny lobster (Panulirus argus) metapopulation both within and across national boundaries. Although spiny lobster subpopulations are highly connected at the basin scale, several nations located in the northern Caribbean and ecoregional networks could persist independently of the larger basin‐wide metapopulation. Based on these results, we propose transnational neighborhoods for spiny lobster management. Our analysis suggests that the dynamics and management of those subpopulations neighborhoods are not intrinsically dependent on “upstream” connectivity even though current rates of upstream larval supply are very high.
Determinants of Factor Misallocation in Agricultural Production and Implications for Agricultural Supply‐side Reform in China
Authors: Han Hongyun , Li Hanning , Zhao Liange
Published: May 2018

Allocative inefficiency in agriculture is an issue puzzling researchers and policy‐makers in China. Based on household data from the China Family Panel Studies of 2012, the present paper quantifies the potential distortions in China's agricultural production and examines their underlying determinants across regions. The results reveal that there are different levels of distortions across regions. The Middle region is facing the greatest distortion. Increases in machinery input, the proportion of non‐farm income and effective labor input will reduce distortions. Household saving, farmland rent and farmland size are significantly positively related to distortions. There is a complementary effect between labor and farmland in alleviating production inefficiency, but substitution effects exist between capital and farmland and also capital and labor. The increase in farmland size will aggravate the impact of capital on distortions. Given the constraint of super small‐scale farmland, facilitating land transfer is a necessary precondition for improving allocative efficiency.
Public Policy Environment and Entrepreneurial Activities: Evidence from China
Authors: Lan Sai , Gao Xiang , Wang Qing , Zhang Yilin
Published: May 2018

What determines the effectiveness of government entrepreneurship policies on the regional development of entrepreneurial activities in China? Using panel data analysis, this study develops a comprehensive framework that examines the effects of various factors, including government efficiency and government support for business, finance and technology, on facilitating the creation of new ventures. Based on provincial data collected between 2009 and 2014, we find that the level of infrastructure development, government incubators and venture capital‐guided funds have positive and significant effects on entrepreneurial activities. The findings of our study suggest that local government efficiency is a fundamental precondition for entrepreneurship policies to effectively boost the regional economy.
S3 Guideline for the treatment of psoriasis vulgaris, update – Short version part 1 – Systemic treatment
Authors: Nast Alexander , Amelunxen Lasse , Augustin Matthias , Boehncke Wolf‐­Henning , Dressler Corinna , Gaskins Matthew , Härle Peter , Hoffstadt Bernd , Klaus Joachim , Koza Joachim , Mrowietz Ulrich , Ockenfels Hans‐Michael , Philipp Sandra , Reich Kristian , Rosenbach Thomas , Rzany Berthold , Schlaeger Martin , Schmid‐Ott Gerhard , Sebastian Michael , von Kiedrowski Ralph , Weberschock Tobias
Published: May 2018

The German guideline for the treatment of psoriasis vulgaris was updated using GRADE methodology. The guideline is based on a systematic literature review completed on December 1, 2016, and on a formal consensus and approval process. The first section of this short version of the guideline covers systemic treatment options considered relevant by the expert panel and approved in Germany at the time of the consensus conference (acitretin, adalimumab, apremilast, cyclosporine, etanercept, fumaric acid esters, infliximab, methotrexate, secukinumab and ustekinumab). Detailed information is provided on the management and monitoring of the included treatment options.
Chronic urticaria – What does the new guideline tell us?
Authors: Maurer Marcus , Zuberbier Torsten , Siebenhaar Frank , Krause Karoline
Published: May 2018

Patients with chronic urticaria experience significant impairment, and require an effective treatment. Such treatment is preceded by a thorough diagnostic workup and measurement of disease activity, disease burden and disease control using well‐­established tools. Treatment is subsequently adjusted according to patient needs and therapeutic response, based on the tenet “as much as necessary, as little as possible” (in that order). Once disease control has been achieved, it is recommended that intermittent attempts at medication withdrawal be made in order to identify spontaneous disease remission. Chronic urticaria should be treated until spontaneous remission occurs.
The mental timeline is gradually constructed in childhood
Authors: Tillman Katharine A. , Tulagan Nestor , Fukuda Eren , Barner David
Published: May 2018

When reasoning about time, English‐speaking adults often invoke a “mental timeline” stretching from left to right. Although the direction of the timeline varies across cultures, the tendency to represent time as a line has been argued to be ubiquitous and primitive. On this hypothesis, we might predict that children also spontaneously invoke a spatial timeline when reasoning about time. However, little is known about how and when the mental timeline develops, or to what extent it is variable and malleable in childhood. Here, we used a sticker placement task to test whether preschoolers and kindergarteners spontaneously map temporal events (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) and deictic time words (yesterday, today, tomorrow) onto lines, and to what degree their representations of time are adult‐like. We found that, at age 4, preschoolers were able to arrange temporal items in lines with minimal spatial priming. However, unlike kindergarteners and adults, most preschoolers did not represent time as a line spontaneously, in the absence of priming, and did not prefer left‐to‐right over right‐to‐left lines. Furthermore, unlike most adults, children of all ages could be easily primed to adopt an unconventional vertical timeline. Our findings suggest that mappings between time and space in children are initially flexible, and become increasingly automatic and conventionalized in the early school years.
Cover Image, Volume 20, Issue 6
Authors: Charleer Sara , Mathieu Chantal , Nobels Frank , Gillard Pieter
Published: May 2018

The cover image, by Sara Charleer et al., is based on the Brief Report A vitamin Accuracy and precision of flash glucose monitoring sensors inserted into the abdomen and upper thigh compared with the upper arm, DOI: 10.1111/dom.13239. Design Credit: Mr. Joren Polfliet.

image
Three‐dimensional echocardiography in acute heart failure: Can and should we do it in the emergency department?
Authors: Matthews Sajith , Levy Phillip D. , Favot Mark , Gowland Laura , Abidov Aiden
Published: May 2018

Despite its proven superiority over two‐dimensional transthoracic echocardiography (2DTTE) for left ventricular (LV) volumes and ejection fraction, clinical use of 3DTTE remains very limited in the acute setting. 3DTTE may have significant clinical advantages in the assessment of acute heart failure. Further exploration of 3DTTE utilization may help in more precise assessment of the regional wall‐motion abnormalities, early identification of acute ischemic from nonischemic LV dysfunction with a more precise approach to the AHF management. The use of other measures, especially the right ventricular and the left atrial assessment, and 3D strain methodology may further expand the potential future utility of 3DTTE in patients with new‐onset HF.
“Gigantic” biatrial myxoma with right heart functional impairment
Authors: Vega Adauy Julián , Gabrielli Luigi , Córdova Samuel , McNab Paul , Saavedra Rodrigo , Piñeiro Marta , Zalaquett Ricardo
Published: May 2018

Cardiac myxomas are frequently located in the left or right atria, with multiple locations being rare. We report a 59‐year‐old healthy female with 5 months of cough and exertional dyspnea. A transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) exhibits a 9 × 5 cm nonpedunculated tumor arising from the interatrial septum (IAS) and inhabiting both atria, but was unable to depict the relation with the IAS. Transesophageal echocardiography exposes a single tumor crossing the IAS through an ostium secundum atrial septal defect (ASD) causing right heart functional impairment. Uneventful cardiac surgery allowed complete resection of the lesion and ASD closure. Pathology reported a myxoma.
Promises and challenges in insect–plant interactions
Authors: Giron David , Dubreuil Géraldine , Bennett Alison , Dedeine Franck , Dicke Marcel , Dyer Lee A. , Erb Matthias , Harris Marion O. , Huguet Elisabeth , Kaloshian Isgouhi , Kawakita Atsushi , Lopez‐Vaamonde Carlos , Palmer Todd M. , Petanidou Theodora , Poulsen Michael , Sallé Aurélien , Simon Jean‐Christophe , Terblanche John S. , Thiéry Denis , Whiteman Noah K. , Woods H. Arthur , Pincebourde Sylvain
Published: May 2018

There is tremendous diversity of interactions between plants and other species. These relationships range from antagonism to mutualism. Interactions of plants with members of their ecological community can lead to a profound metabolic reconfiguration of the plants’ physiology. This reconfiguration can favour beneficial organisms and deter antagonists like pathogens or herbivores. Determining the cellular and molecular dialogue between plants, microbes, and insects, and its ecological and evolutionary implications is important for understanding the options for each partner to adopt an adaptive response to its biotic environment. Moving forward, understanding how such ecological interactions are shaped by environmental change and how we potentially mitigate deleterious effects will be increasingly important. The development of integrative multidisciplinary approaches may provide new solutions to the major ecological and societal issues ahead of us. The rapid evolution of technology provides valuable tools and opens up novel ways to test hypotheses that were previously unanswerable, but requires that scientists master these tools, understand potential ethical problems flowing from their implementation, and train new generations of biologists with diverse technical skills. Here, we provide brief perspectives and discuss future promise and challenges for research on insect–plant interactions building on the 16th International Symposium on Insect–Plant interactions (SIP) meeting that was held in Tours, France (2–6 July 2017). Talks, posters, and discussions are distilled into key research areas in insect–plant interactions, highlighting the current state of the field and major challenges, and future directions for both applied and basic research.
Estimating High School GPA Weighting Parameters With a Graded Response Model
Authors: Hansen John , Sadler Philip , Sonnert Gerhard
Published: May 2018

The high school grade point average (GPA) is often adjusted to account for nominal indicators of course rigor, such as “honors” or “advanced placement.” Adjusted GPAs—also known as weighted GPAs—are frequently used for computing students’ rank in class and in the college admission process. Despite the high stakes attached to GPA, weighting policies vary considerably across states and high schools. Previous methods of estimating weighting parameters have used regression models with college course performance as the dependent variable. We discuss and demonstrate the suitability of the graded response model for estimating GPA weighting parameters and evaluating traditional weighting schemes. In our sample, which was limited to self‐reported performance in high school mathematics courses, we found that commonly used policies award more than twice the bonus points necessary to create parity for standard and advanced courses.
Inflammation, edema and poor outcome are associated with hyperthermia in hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhages
Authors: Iglesias‐Rey R. , Rodríguez‐Yáñez M. , Arias S. , Santamaría M. , Rodríguez‐Castro E. , López‐Dequidt I. , Hervella P. , Sobrino T. , Campos F. , Castillo J.
Published: May 2018

Background and purpose

The deleterious effect of hyperthermia on intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) has been studied. However, the results are not conclusive and new studies are needed to elucidate clinical factors that influence the poor outcome. The aim of this study was to identify the clinical factors (including ICH etiology) that influence the poor outcome associated with hyperthermia and ICH. We also tried to identify potential mechanisms involved in hyperthermia during ICH.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study enrolling patients with non‐traumatic ICH from a prospective registry. We used logistic regression models to analyze the influence of hyperthermia in relation to different inflammatory and endothelial dysfunction markers, hematoma growth and edema volume in hypertensive and non‐hypertensive patients with ICH.

Results

We included 887 patients with ICH (433 hypertensive, 50 amyloid, 117 by anticoagulants and 287 with other causes). Patients with hypertensive ICH showed the highest body temperature (37.5 ± 0.8°C) as well as the maximum increase in temperature (0.9 ± 0.1°C) within the first 24 h. Patients with ICH of hypertensive etiologic origin, who presented hyperthermia, showed a 5.3‐fold higher risk of a poor outcome at 3 months. We found a positive relationship (r = 0.717, P < 0.0001) between edema volume and hyperthermia during the first 24 h but only in patients with ICH of hypertensive etiologic origin. This relationship seems to be mediated by inflammatory markers.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that hyperthermia, together with inflammation and edema, is associated with poor outcome only in ICH of hypertensive etiology.
A population‐based cost‐effectiveness study of early genetic testing in severe epilepsies of infancy
Authors: Howell Katherine B. , Eggers Stefanie , Dalziel Kim , Riseley Jessica , Mandelstam Simone , Myers Candace T. , McMahon Jacinta M. , Schneider Amy , Carvill Gemma L. , Mefford Heather C. ,   the Victorian Severe Epilepsy of Infancy Study Group, Scheffer Ingrid E. , Harvey A. Simon
Published: May 2018

Objective

The severe epilepsies of infancy (SEI) are a devastating group of disorders that pose a major care and economic burden on society; early diagnosis is critical for optimal management. This study sought to determine the incidence and etiologies ofSEI, and model the yield and cost‐effectiveness of early genetic testing.

Methods

A population‐based study was undertaken of the incidence, etiologies, and cost‐effectiveness of a whole exome sequencing–based gene panel (targetedWES) in infants withSEIborn during 2011‐2013, identified through electroencephalography (EEG) and neonatal databases.SEIwas defined as seizure onset before age 18 months, frequent seizures, epileptiformEEG, and failure of ≥2 antiepileptic drugs. Medical records, investigations, MRIs, andEEGs were analyzed, and genetic testing was performed if no etiology was identified. Economic modeling was performed to determine yield and cost‐effectiveness of investigation of infants with unknown etiology at epilepsy onset, incorporating targetedWESat different stages of the diagnostic pathway.

Results

Of 114 infants withSEI(incidence = 54/100 000 live births/y), the etiology was determined in 76 (67%): acquired brain injuries (n = 14), focal cortical dysplasias (n = 14), other brain malformations (n = 17), channelopathies (n = 11), chromosomal (n = 9), metabolic (n = 6), and other genetic (n = 5) disorders. Modeling showed that incorporating targetedWESincreased diagnostic yield compared to investigation without targetedWES(48/86 vs 39/86). Early targetedWEShad lower total cost ($677 081 U.S. dollars [USD] vs $738 136 USD) than late targetedWES. A pathway with early targetedWESand limited metabolic testing yielded 7 additional diagnoses compared to investigation without targetedWES(46/86 vs 39/86), with lower total cost ($455 597 USDvs $661 103 USD), lower cost per diagnosis ($9904 USDvs $16 951 USD), and a dominant cost‐effectiveness ratio.

Significance

Severe epilepsies occur in 1 in 2000 infants, with the etiology identified in two‐thirds, most commonly malformative. Early use of targetedWESyields more diagnoses at lower cost. Early genetic diagnosis will enable timely administration of precision medicines, once developed, with the potential to improve long‐term outcome.
Health care practitioners’ perceptions of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures: A systematic review of qualitative and quantitative studies
Authors: Rawlings Gregg H. , Reuber Markus
Published: May 2018

A recent systematic synthesis of qualitative research demonstrated that patients with psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) often experience unsatisfactory encounters with health care practitioners (HCPs). It is important to understand such interactions from the perspective of those responsible for delivering care. This systematic review aimed to examine the attitudes and perceptions of HCPs toward PNES. A systematic search of 3 databases (Web of Science, PubMed, and CINAHL) was conducted in November 2017. Studies from around the world published after 1997 using qualitative or quantitative methodologies were reviewed. An interpretative stance was taken to analyze the data utilizing a grounded theory approach. The quality of studies included was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Overall, 30 separate studies capturing the views of at least 3900 professionals were included. Five concepts emerged from the analysis: (1) HCPs’ responses demonstrated uncertainty about many aspects of PNES, including diagnosis and treatment; (2) HCPs understood PNES in dualistic terms, perceiving the condition as largely associated with psychological factors; (3) Patients with PNES were considered challenging and frustrating; (4) HCPs held mixed or contested views about who is responsible for treating patients with PNES; and (5) PNES was viewed as less severe or disabling than epilepsy and associated with a greater degree of volition. Although some HCPs have an excellent understanding of PNES, the views of many give rise to concern. The number of qualitative studies that directly ask HCPs about their perceptions of PNES is limited. Moreover, some professional groups (ie, mental health specialists) are underrepresented in current research. This study reveals a demand for additional training. However, effort is needed also to change the attitudes of some practitioners toward PNES.
Lamotrigine‐resistant corneal‐kindled mice: A model of pharmacoresistant partial epilepsy for moderate‐throughput drug discovery
Authors: Koneval Zachery , Knox Kevin M. , White H. Steve , Barker‐Haliski Melissa
Published: May 2018

Objective

Despite numerous treatments for epilepsy, over 30% of patients remain resistant to available antiseizure drugs (ASDs). Thus, there is a strong need for more effective ASDs for these individuals. Early ASD discovery has historically relied on acute in vivo seizure models (maximal electroshock, subcutaneous pentylenetetrazol, 6 Hz), which lack the pathophysiology that defines chronic epilepsy. Etiologically relevant rodent models of pharmacoresistant epilepsy exist (eg, phenytoin (PHT)‐ and lamotrigine (LTG)‐resistant amygdala‐kindled rat and focal kainic acid mouse), but these models are resource‐ and labor‐intensive and thus unsuitable for frontline ASD discovery.

Methods

We adapted the LTG‐resistant amygdala‐kindled rat protocol to the 60 Hz corneal‐kindled mouse (CKM) to develop a medium‐throughput model of pharmacoresistant chronic seizures. Male CF‐1 mice were administered either vehicle (VEH; 0.5% methylcellulose) or LTG (8.5 mg/kg, ip) 30 minutes prior to each twice‐daily corneal stimulation until mice achieved kindling criterion. Prototype ASDs were then evaluated in fully kindled mice. Compounds with specific mechanisms of action of interest to epilepsy (fluoxetine, minocycline, and celecoxib) were also evaluated.

Results

LTG did not modify kindling acquisition. A challenge dose of 17 mg/kg (ip) LTG did not block the secondarily generalized kindled seizure in LTG‐kindled mice (mean seizure score [MSS] ± standard error of the mean: 5.67 ± 0.14), whereas VEH‐treated mice were sensitive (MSS: 2.25 ± 0.30); confirming LTG‐resistance. LTG‐resistant CKM were also resistant to carbamazepine, retigabine, and valproic acid at doses that significantly reduced MSS in VEH‐treated kindled mice. Fluoxetine, minocycline, and celecoxib were ineffective at the doses tested in either kindled cohort. Finally, the behavioral phenotype of LTG‐resistant CKM was also characterized. CKM demonstrated exacerbated hyperexcitability and increased anxiety‐like behavior in an open field relative to sham‐kindled mice regardless of LTG sensitivity.

Significance

The pharmacoresistant LTG‐resistant CKM provides an etiologically relevant moderate‐throughput platform that is suitable for early compound discovery before advancing to more resource‐intensive models of epilepsy.
A combined fuzzy logic and artificial neural network approach for non‐linear identification of IPMC actuators with hysteresis modification
Authors: Zamyad Hojat , Naghavi Nadia , Barmaki Hasan
Published: May 2018

Ionic polymer–metal composite (IPMC) actuators are one of the most prominent electroactive polymers with expected widespread use in the future. IPMC actuators exhibit hysteresis, which causes non‐linearity in bending behaviour of them. In this paper, a modified adaptive neuro‐fuzzy inference system and a non‐linear autoregressive with exogenous input (ANFIS–NARX) approach is presented for non‐linear identification of IPMC actuators. The proposed method utilizes a hysteresis operator, which increases the accuracy of the IPMC identification in combination with an ANFIS–NARX structure. The proposed model has a flexible structure to estimate the output (IPMC displacement as an actuator) for different training and testing data sets. Experimental results are provided to show the effectiveness of the accurate tracking capability of the proposed method to capture the real mechanical displacement features of the IPMC actuator.
Multicriteria estimate of coral reef fishery sustainability
Authors: McClanahan Timothy R
Published: May 2018

A holistic basis for achieving ecosystem‐based management is needed to counter the continuing degradation of coral reefs. The high variation in recovery rates of fish, corresponding to fisheries yields, and the ecological complexity of coral reefs have challenged efforts to estimate fisheries sustainability. Yet, estimating stable yields can be determined when biomass, recovery, changes in per area yields and ecological change are evaluated together. Long‐term rates of change in yields and fishable biomass‐yield ratios have been the key missing variables for most coral reef assessments. Calibrating a fishery yield model using independently collected fishable biomass and recovery data produced large confidence intervals driven by high variability in biomass recovery rates that precluded accurate or universal yields for coral reefs. To test the model's predictions, I present changes in Kenyan reef fisheries for >20 years. Here, exceeding yields above 6 tonnes km−2 year−1 when fishable biomass was ~20 tonnes/km2 (~20% of unfished biomass) resulted in a >2.4% annual decline. Therefore, rates of decline fit the mean settings well and model predictions may therefore be used as a benchmark in reefs with mean recovery rates (i.e. r = 0.20–0.25). The mean model settings indicate a maximum sustained yield (MSY) of ~6 tonnes km−2 year−1 when fishable biomass was ~50 tonnes/km2. Variable reported recovery rates indicate that high sustainable yields will depend greatly on maintaining these rates, which can be reduced if productivity declines and management of stocks and functional diversity are ineffective. A number of ecological state‐yield trade‐off occurs as abrupt ecological changes prior to biomass levels that produce MSY.
Families That Do Well: Lay Conceptualizations of Well‐Functioning, Healthy, Strong, and Good Families
Authors: Williamson Deanna L. , Charchuk Margo , Kushner Kaysi E. , Skrypnek Berna J. , Pitre Nicole Y.
Published: May 2018

Objective

To explore laypeople's conceptualization of terms that refer to families that do well and how social‐contextual factors shape these conceptualizations.

Background

Although there is abundant academic and popular literature about families that do well, little research has explored lay conceptualizations. Our focus responds to critiques of top‐down approaches that minimize the value of family members' knowledge.

Method

A socioeconomically diverse sample of 34 adults was asked to describe well‐functioning families, healthy families, strong families, and good families. Data analysis for this critical ethnographic study involved thematic content analysis and exploration of participants' conceptualizations in relation to social‐contextual influences.

Results

Participants' descriptions revealed three categories of attributes of families that do well: functional–instrumental characteristics, interpersonal relationships, and healthy lifestyle behaviors. Analysis of social‐contextual influences revealed limited variation within and across thematic categories of attributes of families that do well.

Conclusion

This study contributes to evidence showing considerable, but not complete, alignment between laypeople's understandings of families that do well and scholars' and professionals' ideas. Laypeople have some of their own ideas about families that do well.

Implications

Our study highlights laypeople's perspectives as legitimate knowledge with implications for services, programs, and policies that support families to “do well.”
A356‐T6 wheels: Influence of casting defects on fatigue design
Authors: Tebaldini M. , Petrogalli C. , Donzella G. , Gelfi M. , La Vecchia G.M.
Published: May 2018

Rotating bending fatigue tests were executed on A356‐T6 wheels. The tests were performed both on components containing only the casting defects and on wheels in which artificial holes were machined. Results show the detrimental effect of sub‐superficial porosities on fatigue endurance. A predictive model was proposed. It resulted in a useful tool for the designer because knowing the applied stress, it is possible to estimate the number of cycles for crack nucleation considering the size of the defect, whereas knowing the endurance target requested it is possible to find the maximum defect size acceptable considering the applied stress.