bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations of neonatal adiponectin and leptin with growth and body composition in African American infants
Authors: Schneider C. R. , Catalano P. M. , Biggio J. R. , Gower B. A. , Chandler‐Laney P. C.
Published: March 2018

Background

Cord blood adiponectin and leptin concentrations are associated with birth weight and adiposity. Birth size and rate of infant weight gain are associated with future obesity risk. However, it is unclear whether biomarkers reflecting the intrauterine environment are predictive of infant prospective body composition change.

Objectives

To examine whether cord blood adiponectin and leptin are predictive of neonatal adiposity and fat mass (FM) accrual to 3 months of age.

Methods

Participants (n = 36) were healthy African American infants. Leptin and adiponectin concentrations were measured in umbilical cord blood. At 2 weeks and 3 months, infant body composition was assessed via air displacement plethysmography. Weight‐for‐length z‐scores (WLZ) were calculated using World Health Organization standards. Multiple linear regression was used to examine associations of cord blood adiponectin and leptin with birth WLZ; WLZ, FM and fat‐free mass at 2 weeks, and the conditional change in these variables from 2 weeks to 3 months (body composition at 3 months adjusted for body composition at 2 weeks).

Results

Adiponectin was positively associated with FM at 2 weeks (r = 0.45, P < 0.01), but inversely associated with conditional FM change from 2 weeks to 3 months of age (r = −0.38, P < 0.05). Leptin was not significantly associated with infant body composition.

Conclusions

Adiponectin may be a marker for FM accrual in African American infants, a relatively understudied population with a high long‐term obesity risk. Mechanistic studies are needed to determine whether adiponectin directly influences infant growth or is simply a maker reflective of other ongoing biological changes after birth.
Thresholds of physical activity associated with obesity by level of sedentary behaviour in children
Authors: Chaput J.‐P. , Barnes J. D. , Tremblay M. S. , Fogelholm M. , Hu G. , Lambert E. V. , Maher C. , Maia J. , Olds T. , Onywera V. , Sarmiento O. L. , Standage M. , Tudor‐Locke C. , Katzmarzyk P. T.
Published: March 2018

Background

It is unknown whether moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity (MVPA) thresholds for obesity should be adapted depending on level of sedentary behaviour in children.

Objective

The objective of the study is to determine the MVPA thresholds that best discriminate between obese and non‐obese children, by level of screen time and total sedentary time in 12 countries.

Methods

This multinational, cross‐sectional study included 6522 children 9–11 years of age. MVPA and sedentary time were assessed using waist‐worn accelerometry, while screen time was self‐reported. Obesity was defined according to the World Health Organization reference data.

Results

Receiver operating characteristic curve analyses showed that the best thresholds of MVPA to predict obesity ranged from 53.8 to 73.9 min d−1 in boys and from 41.7 to 58.7 min d−1 in girls, depending on the level of screen time. The MVPA cut‐offs to predict obesity ranged from 37.9 to 75.9 min d−1 in boys and from 32.5 to 62.7 min d−1 in girls, depending on the level of sedentary behaviour. The areas under the curve ranged from 0.57 to 0.73 (‘fail’ to ‘fair’ accuracy), and most sensitivity and specificity values were below 85%, similar to MVPA alone. Country‐specific analyses provided similar findings.

Conclusions

The addition of sedentary behaviour levels to MVPA did not result in a better predictive ability to classify children as obese/non‐obese compared with MVPA alone.
TCR deep sequencing of transgenic RAG‐1‐deficient mice reveals endogenous TCR recombination: a cause for caution
Authors: McGuire Helen M , Watkins Thomas S , Field Matthew , Taylor Sarah , Yasuyama Nao , Farmer Andrew , Miles John J , Fazekas de St. Groth Barbara
Published: March 2018

The utility of T‐cell receptor (TCR) transgenic mice in medical research has been considerable, with applications ranging from basic biology all the way to translational and clinical investigations. Crossing of TCR transgenic mice with either recombination‐activating gene (RAG)‐1 or RAG‐2 knockouts is frequently used to generate mice with a monoclonal T‐cell repertoire. However, low level productive TCR rearrangement has been reported in RAG‐deficient mice expressing transgenic TCRs. Using deep sequencing, we set out to directly examine and quantify the presence of these endogenous TCRs. Our demonstration that functional nontransgenic TCRs are present in nonmanipulated mice has wide reaching ramifications worthy of critical consideration.
Serum albumin level and abnormal corrected QT interval in patients with coronary artery disease and chronic kidney disease
Authors: Wu Cheng‐Ching , Lu Yung‐Chuan , Yu Teng‐Hung , Wang Chao‐Ping , Hung Wei‐Chin , Tang Wei‐Hua , Tsai I‐Ting , Chung Fu‐Mei , Lee Yau‐Jiunn , Hu Jin‐Jia
Published: March 2018

Background

Lower concentrations of serum albumin appear to be associated with an increased risk of all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality, coronary heart disease, heart failure and stroke. However, little is known about the relationship between serum albumin level and prolonged QT interval.

Aim

To investigate whether lower serum albumin is associated with prolonged QT interval by recording 12‐lead electrocardiography in patients with coronary artery disease and chronic kidney disease.

Methods

This study included 1383 consecutive patients with coronary artery disease and chronic kidney disease (841 with acute coronary syndrome and 542 with elective percutaneous coronary intervention patients) who were enrolled in a disease management programme. Twelve‐lead electrocardiography was recorded in each subject. We assessed the relationship between albumin levels (both as a continuous variable and stratified by tertile) at admission and corrected QT (QTc) prolongation.

Results

Patients with abnormal QTc interval had lower serum albumin levels than those with normal and borderline QTc intervals. Statistically significant negative associations were observed between serum albumin levels and QTc interval (β = −0.211, P < 0.0001). Using multivariate and trend analyses, a lower concentration of serum albumin was independently associated with QTc prolongation in both the patients with acute coronary syndrome and elective percutaneous coronary intervention patients.

Conclusion

Concentrations of serum albumin were significantly lower in the patients with an abnormal QTc interval and were associated with QTc prolongation. Further studies are needed to clarify whether lower serum albumin plays a role in the pathogenesis of QTc prolongation.
Infective endocarditis: a Hunter New England perspective
Authors: Doig Fiona , Loewenthal Mark , Lai Katy , Mejia Ross , Iyengar Ajay
Published: March 2018

Background

Infective endocarditis (IE) is a severe infection conferring significant morbidity and mortality. It is associated with geographical variation, complicating diagnosis and treatment of patients in a standardised manner.

Aim

To evaluate the presentation, treatment and outcomes of patients with IE in the Hunter New England Local Health District (HNELHD).

Methods

A total of 112 patients with definite IE admitted to hospitals within the HNELHD between 2011 and 2015 was retrospectively analysed.

Results

The mean age of patients was 56.8 (standard deviation 20.3) and 62.5% were male. The most common valve affected was the mitral valve, in 41% of patients, and the most common organism was Staphylococcus aureus, in 47.7% of patients. A history of IE was present in 10% of patients and 19.6% presented with prosthetic valve IE. Survival among patients treated surgically was 100% at 30 days, 92% at 1 year and 83% at 3 years, versus 82% at 30 days, 65% at 1 year and 51% at 3 years for those not operated (P = 0.004). Valve type, organism and Australian Standard Geographical Classification remoteness area did not have a statistically significant effect on mortality (P‐value 0.095, 0.456 and 0.186, respectively). Factors associated with improved survival by univariate analysis included surgery and multidisciplinary team review.

Conclusion

IE in the HNELHD affects a relatively young cohort of patients and is associated with a high mortality. Outcomes could be improved by implementation of a multidisciplinary team approach and inpatient cardiac surgery.
Suboptimal behaviour and knowledge regarding overnight glycaemia in adults with type 1 diabetes is common
Authors: Larsson Christina R. , Januszewski Andrzej S. , McGrath Rachel T. , Ludvigsson Johnny , Keech Anthony C. , MacIsaac Richard J. , Ward Glenn M. , O’Neal David N. , Fulcher Gregory R. , Jenkins Alicia J.
Published: March 2018

Background

In people with type 1 diabetes (T1D), nocturnal hypoglycaemia (NH) can be slept through and can cause seizures, arrhythmias and death. Hypoglycaemia avoidance can induce hyperglycaemia and ketosis. Patient behaviour impacts clinical outcomes and may be changed by education.

Aim

To develop and utilise a survey to evaluate patient self‐management of overnight glycaemia in adults with T1D.

Methods

Adults with T1D attending two Australian tertiary referral diabetes clinics completed a survey about their diabetes self‐management and glycaemic control, including responses to hypothetical pre‐bed blood glucose (BG) levels (4–20 mmol/L). Statistical analyses included t‐tests, Chi square tests and ANOVA with significance considered at P < 0.05.

Results

There were 205 participants (103 females), with a mean (SD) age of 41 (17) years, T1D duration of 20 (16) years, HbA1c of 7.8(1.4)%, (61.3(8.2) mmol/mol), 38% on insulin pump therapy (CSII) and 36% with impaired hypoglycaemia awareness (IHA). Mean (SD) number of BG tests/day was 5.4 (2.7). Patients set higher BG target levels at bedtime and overnight: 7.5(1.4) and 7.1(1.3) mmol/L, respectively, compared to daytime (6.9(1.0); P < 0.0001 and P = 0.002 respectively). Only 36% of participants reported treating nocturnal hypoglycaemia (NH) with the recommended refined, then complex, carbohydrate. Only 28% of patients made safe choices in all bedtime BG scenarios, with higher rates for CSII users, P = 0.0005. Further education was desired by 32% of respondents, with higher rates in those with (44%) versus without IHA (25%), P = 0.006.

Conclusions

Many adults with T1D have suboptimal knowledge and behaviour regarding overnight BG self‐management. A survey, piloted herein, may facilitate the identification of patients who could benefit from further education.
Improving life expectancy of patients with scleroderma: results from the South Australian Scleroderma Register
Authors: Kennedy Nicholas , Walker Jenny , Hakendorf Paul , Roberts‐Thomson Peter
Published: March 2018

Background

Scleroderma is a rare connective tissue disorder characterised by inflammation, vasculopathy and excessive fibrosis. Patients with scleroderma are known to have decreased life expectancy.

Aim

To investigate changes in life expectancy in patients with scleroderma over a 30‐year period.

Methods

Utilising the South Australian Scleroderma Register, deceased patients were identified. We examined changes in age of death and duration of disease in these patients over three time periods: 1985–1994, 1995–2004 and 2005–2015. Analyses of scleroderma subtypes were performed, and comparisons were made to the general South Australian population.

Results

A total of 413 deceased patients was identified. Females were overrepresented 315 to 98; 265 had limited scleroderma, 90 diffuse and 22 overlap disease. Over 30 years, the mean age of death improved from 66.4 to 74.5 years (P < 0.001). Duration of disease improved from 12.1 to 22.9 years (P < 0.001). Improvement in survival was seen in limited (P = 0.001), diffuse (P = 0.04) and overlap (P = 0.04) subgroups. The increase in survival was only seen for female (9.8 ± 4.2 years) but not male (1.4 ± 6.7 years) patients.

Conclusion

Over the last 30 years, survival has significantly improved for female but not male patients. As no disease‐modifying drugs have consistently been shown to alter disease course, this improvement is likely attributable to general improvements in medical care, including that of scleroderma‐related complications. While the life expectancy for limited disease is now close to that of the general population, patients with diffuse and overlap disease continue to suffer from significant early mortality.
Thunderstorm asthma: revealing a hidden at‐risk population
Authors: Clayton‐Chubb Daniel , Con Danny , Rangamuwa Kanishka , Taylor David , Thien Francis , Wadhwa Vikas
Published: March 2018

Background

Epidemic thunderstorm asthma (ETSA) refers to large‐scale acute bronchospasm events associated with thunderstorm. The most serious episode ever recorded occurred in Melbourne, Australia, in November 2016, where more than 3500 patients were treated in hospitals and 10 died. Previous work has been focused primarily on patient presentations to emergency departments. The prevalence of individuals with milder, non‐emergent symptoms and who may be at risk of more serious episodes in the future has not previously been explored.

Aim

To characterise the nature and extent of respiratory symptoms in healthcare workers during the Melbourne ETSA event.

Methods

A survey was conducted among staff and volunteers across Eastern Health, distributed on the intranet homepage, by email and by word of mouth. Anonymous survey questions were constructed to assess prior and current diagnoses of relevance, symptoms, and demography.

Results

There were 515 participants (80% female, n = 411) of approximately 9000 potential respondents (~6% response rate) who completed the survey; 132 (25.6%) had symptoms suggestive of asthma during the Melbourne ETSA event, the majority of whom did not seek professional medical help. Notably, of those with ETSA‐like symptoms, only 58 (43.9%) had a history of asthma, while 97 (73.5%) had a history of allergic rhinitis. Specifically, a history of allergic rhinitis (OR 2.77, P < 0.001), a history of asthma (OR 1.67, P = 0.037) and being of self‐identified Asian ethnicity (OR 3.24, P < 0.001) were all strong predictors of ETSA‐like symptoms. Being predominantly indoors was not protective.

Conclusions

Our study provides evidence of the presence of a large cohort of sufferers during the Melbourne ETSA event of 2016 that did not come to the attention of medical services, implying a potentially hidden and significant susceptible population. Further research should help clarify the true prevalence of vulnerability in the general population, with important public health implications.
Taking parents seriously: The experiences of parents with a son or daughter in adult medium secure forensic mental health care
Authors: Finlay‐Carruthers Gemma , Davies Jason , Ferguson John , Browne Kevin
Published: March 2018

Adult forensic mental health services provide care and treatment to individuals with complex offending and mental health histories. However, little attention has been paid to the parents of those receiving care within them. This research explored the experiences of parents with an adult son or daughter with mental illness in a medium secure mental health unit. Transcripts from semi‐structured interviews were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. This led to the identification of three superordinate themes: ‘Something's not right’—onset of mental distress; ‘It's a terrible battle’—relating with professionals; and ‘A very sad fact of life’—caring with no end in sight were identified which together contained nine subordinate themes. The onset of the mental distress was narrated as overwhelming, frightening, and confusing with experiences of violence. Services were seen as invalidating, and interactions with them characterized as a battle. Poor information and involvement were a common experience. Whilst diagnosis was a relief to some, the ongoing sense of loss and burden were clear. Staying connected and hopes for the future were also described. It is clear from this study that mental health services need to do more to engage and foster trust with parents from the outset and to offer support for this group. If secure services were to view parents as ‘forensic carers’, this may help improve respect and engagement between services and carers. Services and policymakers should strive to foster high‐quality family involvement as part of developing social inclusion.
Relapse prevention in anorexia nervosa: Experiences of patients and parents
Authors: Berends Tamara , van de Lagemaat Marleen , van Meijel Berno , Coenen Jasmijn , Hoek Hans W. , van Elburg Annemarie A.
Published: March 2018

One of the main aims of treatment after successful recovery from anorexia nervosa (AN) is to prevent a relapse. The Guideline Relapse Prevention (GRP) Anorexia Nervosa offers a structured approach to relapse prevention. This study explores how patients and their parents experience working with the guideline. It also describes the factors that support or hinder successful application of the guideline. A descriptive qualitative research design was chosen involving in‐depth interviews with seventeen patients with anorexia nervosa and six sets of parents. Patients and family members were generally satisfied with the support provided by the GRP. It contributed significantly to a better understanding of the personal process of relapse. Patients and families valued being able to keep in touch with their professional during the aftercare programme. The GRP supports the patient's use of self‐management strategies for relapse prevention.
Anaesthetic efficacy of 4% articaine and 2% lidocaine for extraction and pulpotomy of mandibular primary molars: an equivalence parallel prospective randomized controlled trial
Authors: Alzahrani Fatma , Duggal Monty S. , Munyombwe Theresa , Tahmassebi Jinous F.
Published: March 2018

Aim

To compare the anaesthetic efficacy for pain and behaviour during treatment with mandibular infiltration using 4% articaine (BI) with inferior dental nerve clock (IDNB) using 2% lidocaine for extraction or pulp therapy in mandibular primary molars.

Design

This was equivalence parallel prospective RCT. A total of 98 children aged 5–9 years old were randomly assigned into two groups: BI supplemented by buccal intrapapillary infiltration with 4% articaine; IDNB with 2% lidocaine supplemented with long buccal infiltration. Behaviour during the injection and treatment procedures was assessed using Wong‐Baker Facial Rating Scale (W‐BFRS), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and Frankl Behaviour Rating Scale (FBRS).

Results

During the injection phase, the absolute differences in success rates between the two techniques were 0.06 (95% CI: −0.11 to 0.23) for VAS and −0.08 (95% CI: −0.19 to 0.03) for the behaviour of the child (FBRS). FBRS results showed the equivalence of the two, whereas the VAS results showed nonequivalence with the 95% confidence intervals slightly exceeding the equivalence margin (±0.20). W‐BFRS success rates were 63.3% for both. During the treatment, VAS results showed similar success rates, demonstrating equivalence between the two as did the results for FBRS.

Conclusion

The results suggested equivalence in success rates for both anaesthetic techniques during treatment.
Carry Trade Returns with Support Vector Machines
Authors: Colombo Emilio , Forte Gianfranco , Rossignoli Roberto
Published: March 2018

This paper proposes a novel approach to directional forecasts for carry trade strategies based on support vector machines (SVMs), a learning algorithm that delivers extremely promising results. Building on recent findings in the literature on carry trade, we condition the SVM on indicators of uncertainty and risk. We show that this provides a dramatic performance improvement in strategy, particularly during periods of financial distress such as the recent financial crises. Disentangling the measures of risk, we show that conditioning the SVM on measures of liquidity risk rather than on market volatility yields the best performance.
The safety and efficacy of quadrivalent live attenuated influenza vaccine in Japanese children aged 2‐18 years: Results of two phase 3 studies
Authors: Mallory Raburn M. , Yu Jing , Kameo Sachiko , Tanaka Michio , Rito Ki , Itoh Yohji , Dubovsky Filip
Published: March 2018

Background

Quadrivalent live attenuated influenza vaccine (Q/LAIV) has not been assessed in Japanese children.

Objectives

Evaluate safety and efficacy of Q/LAIV in Japanese children.

Patients/methods

Two phase 3 studies were conducted in the 2014‐2015 influenza season. Study 1 was an open‐label, uncontrolled single arm, multicenter study of Q/LAIV safety in subjects aged 2‐6 years. Study 2 was a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled multicenter study of Q/LAIV safety and efficacy; subjects aged 7‐18 years were randomized 2:1 to receive Q/LAIV or placebo. Primary efficacy endpoint was laboratory‐confirmed symptomatic influenza infection caused by vaccine‐matched strains; secondary endpoint evaluated efficacy against all strains regardless of match. Both studies reported solicited symptoms, adverse events (AEs), and serious AEs.

Results

In Study 1, 100 subjects received Q/LAIV. In Study 2, 1301 subjects received Q/LAIV (n = 868) or placebo (n = 433). Treatment‐emergent AEs occurred in 42% of subjects in Study 1, and in 24.3% of subjects in the Q/LAIV arm and in 25.9% of subjects in the placebo arm in Study 2. In Study 2, a single infection by a vaccine‐matched strain was reported in the placebo arm, resulting in a vaccine efficacy estimate of 100% (95% CI: −1875.3, 100.0); efficacy for all strains regardless of match to the vaccine was 27.5% (95% CI: 7.4, 43.0).

Conclusions

Quadrivalent live attenuated influenza vaccine did not meet its primary efficacy endpoint as only a single infection by a vaccine‐matched strain was detected; however, efficacy for the secondary endpoint, all strains regardless of match, was achieved. Q/LAIV was generally well tolerated in the Japanese pediatric population.
Dynamics of influenza in tropical Africa: Temperature, humidity, and co‐circulating (sub)types
Authors: Yang Wan , Cummings Matthew J. , Bakamutumaho Barnabas , Kayiwa John , Owor Nicholas , Namagambo Barbara , Byaruhanga Timothy , Lutwama Julius J. , O'Donnell Max R. , Shaman Jeffrey
Published: March 2018

Background

The association of influenza with meteorological variables in tropical climates remains controversial. Here, we investigate the impact of weather conditions on influenza in the tropics and factors that may contribute to this uncertainty.

Methods

We computed the monthly viral positive rate for each of the 3 circulating influenza (sub)types (ie, A/H1N1, A/H3N2, and B) among patients presenting with influenza‐like illness (ILI) or severe acute respiratory infections (SARI) in 2 Ugandan cities (Entebbe and Kampala). Using this measure as a proxy for influenza activity, we applied regression models to examine the impact of temperature, relative humidity, absolute humidity, and precipitation, as well as interactions among the 3 influenza viruses on the epidemic dynamics of each influenza (sub)type. A full analysis including all 4 weather variables was done for Entebbe during 2007‐2015, and a partial analysis including only temperature and precipitation was done for both cities during 2008‐2014.

Results

For Entebbe, the associations with weather variables differed by influenza (sub)type; with adjustment for viral interactions, the models showed that precipitation and temperature were negatively correlated with A/H1N1 activity, but not for A/H3N2 or B. A mutually negative association between A/H3N2 and B activity was identified in both Entebbe and Kampala.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that key interactions exist among influenza (sub)types at the population level in the tropics and that such interactions can modify the association of influenza activity with weather variables. Studies of the relationship between influenza and weather conditions should therefore determine and account for co‐circulating influenza (sub)types.
Innovation at work: The relative advantage of using consumer IT in the workplace
Authors: Junglas Iris , Goel Lakshmi , Ives Blake , Harris Jeanne
Published: March 2018

Employees' personal devices are increasingly evident in the workplace; the use of non‐enterprise sanctioned hardware and software is now commonplace. This phenomenon, frequently referred to as IT consumerization, is gaining momentum. Employees increasingly are using their own devices and choosing their own software (eg, Google Apps, Skype or Dropbox) in addition to—or instead of—enterprise IT. Employees are turning from consumers of enterprise IT to IT deciders, bypassing the IS department to use what critics call “rogue IT.” While discouraged in some contexts, the influx of consumer IT into the workplace has been suggested to influence innovative behaviours among employees. Although the phenomenon is very prevalent, research lags in the operationalization of an IT consumerization model. In this paper, we take a close look at the antecedents and consequences of consumerization behaviours. We examine to what extent an individual's level of satisfaction with enterprise IT in juxtaposition with the level of perceived relative advantage of consumer IT over enterprise IT influences an individual's usage of consumer IT in the workplace; we also examine how organizational mandates and IT empowerment influences IT consumerization behaviours. Finally, we investigate the influence of IT consumerization on innovative behaviours at work.
Combining penalty‐based and Gauss–Seidel methods for solving stochastic mixed‐integer problems
Authors: Oliveira F. , Christiansen J. , Dandurand B. , Eberhard A.
Published: March 2018

In this paper, we propose a novel decomposition approach (named PBGS) for stochastic mixed‐integer programming (SMIP) problems, which is inspired by the combination of penalty‐based Lagrangian and block Gauss–Seidel methods. The PBGS method is developed such that the inherent decomposable structure that SMIP problems present can be exploited in a computationally efficient manner. The performance of the proposed method is compared with the progressive hedging (PH) method, which also can be viewed as a Lagrangian‐based method for obtaining solutions for SMIP problems. Numerical experiments performed using instances from the literature illustrate the efficiency of the proposed method in terms of computational performance and solution quality.
A recombination‐based matheuristic for mixed integer programming problems with binary variables
Authors: Maravilha André L. , Carrano Eduardo G. , Campelo Felipe
Published: March 2018

This work introduces a heuristic for mixed integer programming (MIP) problems with binary variables, based on information obtained from differences between feasible solutions as well as solutions from the linear relaxation. This information is used to build a neighborhood that is explored as a sub‐MIP problem. The proposed heuristic is evaluated using 45 problems from the MIPLIB repository. Its performance, in terms of solution improvement over the results obtained after exploring 50,000 nodes of the branch‐and‐bound tree, is compared against that of Solution Polishing, which is another recombination‐based heuristic for MIP problems used within the CPLEX solver; as well as against the solution obtained by running the default CPLEX branch‐and‐cut (B&C) method under a same time limit. The computational results indicate that the proposed method is able to yield results that are significantly better than those obtained by the default CPLEX B&C approach and comparable to those of Solution Polishing in terms of the mean solution quality. This equivalence of expected solution quality, coupled with a simpler implementation, suggests the use of the proposed approach as a possible alternative for improving the quality of solutions in MIP problems.
Algorithms for a two‐machine flowshop problem with jobs of two classes
Authors: Jeong BongJoo , Kim Yeong‐Dae , Shim Sang‐Oh
Published: March 2018

We consider a problem of scheduling jobs of two classes of urgencies in a two‐machine flowshop with the objective of minimizing total tardiness of one class for urgent jobs and the maximum completion time of the other class for non‐urgent jobs. Urgent jobs are an important consideration in the real manufacturing systems, but it has not been studied due to the difficulty of the problem. In this research, a branch‐and‐bound (B&B) algorithm is proposed through developing lower bounds, dominance properties, and heuristic algorithms for obtaining an initial feasible solution. To evaluate the performance of the proposed algorithms, computational experiments on randomly generated instances are performed. Results of the experiments show that the suggested B&B algorithm can solve problems with up to 20 jobs in a reasonable amount of CPU time.
First‐principles investigation of the thermodynamic stability of MB2 materials surfaces (M = Ti/Zr/Hf)
Authors: Zhang Yanhui , Sanvito Stefano
Published: March 2018

Some of the renewed interest in transition metal diborides (MB2, M = Ti/Zr/Hf) arises from their potential use as matrices in ultrahigh‐temperature ceramic matrix composites (UHTCMCs). Crucial to the understanding of such composites is the study of the fiber/matrix interfaces, which in turn requires a deep knowledge of the surface structures and the thermodynamics of the matrix material. Here we investigate the surface stability of MB2 compounds by first‐principles calculations. Five surfaces are stabilized when going from a M‐rich to a B‐rich environment, respectively (0001)M, (100)M, (101)B(M), (113)M and (0001)B, with the highly stable (100)M, (101)B(M) and (113)M surfaces being discussed here for the first time. The mechanism behind the surface stability is analyzed in terms of cleavage energy, surface strain and surface bonding states. Our results provide important information for a better understanding of the most likely surfaces exposed to the fibers in UHTCMCs, thereby for the construction of reliable interfaces and ultimately UHTCMCs models.
Early death and causes of death of people with Down syndrome: A systematic review
Authors: O'Leary Lisa , Hughes‐McCormack Laura , Dunn Kirsty , Cooper Sally‐Ann
Published: March 2018

Background

It is thought that people with Down syndrome die younger than the general population, but that survival rates are improving.

Methods

Five databases were searched for keywords related to intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome and mortality. Strict inclusion criteria were applied. Information from 34 selected studies was tabulated, extracted and synthesized.

Results

People with Down syndrome died about 28 years younger than the general population. Congenital heart anomalies, comorbidities, low birthweight, and Black and minority ethnicity influenced earlier age of death, as did younger maternal age and poorer parental education. Congenital heart anomalies and respiratory conditions were the leading causes of death, and more common than in the general population. Survival rates have improved over time, particularly for those with congenital heart anomalies.

Conclusions

People with Down syndrome are living longer but still die younger of different causes than the general population. More robust comparative data are needed, and ethnic differences require further study.
Development of a cognitive behavioural therapy‐based guided self‐help intervention for adults with intellectual disability
Authors: McQueen Meg , Blinkhorn Ashleigh , Broad Adam , Jones Jessica , Naeem Farooq , Ayub Muhammad
Published: March 2018

Background

Despite strong evidence for cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) in treating mental health, its use, thus far, has been limited for people with intellectual disabilities. This study describes a CBT‐based guided self‐help (CBT‐GSH) manual for individuals with intellectual disability, and focus groups explore the views of clinicians, therapists, support staff and managers.

Material and methods

Using a qualitative methodology, an expert team adapted the manual. Focus groups provided feedback, followed by thematic content analysis for modifications.

Results

Participants supported using the manual, with varying views about the delivery. Quality of relationships and competence of the administrator determined the best person to deliver the treatment. Heterogeneity in the intellectual disability population was a challenge to delivering manual‐based interventions. Participants made suggestions about language and organization.

Conclusions

Amendments were made to the manual in line with expert feedback. An evaluation is warranted to test for feasibility, delivery, acceptability and efficacy.
Medical Certificates of Cause of Death for people with intellectual disabilities: A systematic literature review
Authors: Dunwoodie Stirton Fred , Heslop Pauline
Published: March 2018

Background

Mortality studies can help reduce health inequalities by informing public policy through a better understanding of causes of death and comorbidities. Mortality studies often rely on Medical Certificates of Cause of Death (MCCD) for data.

Method

A systematic review was undertaken to identify the extent and nature of issues in recording causes of death for people with intellectual disability onMCCD.

Results

Fifteen of the 25 articles included in the literature review raised concerns about the accuracy ofMCCDin identifying the cause(s) of death of people with intellectual disability. The most frequent issues were the under‐reporting of intellectual disability onMCCD, and listing intellectual disability or an associated condition as an underlying cause of death.

Conclusions

Concerns about the accuracy and reliability ofMCCDfor people with intellectual disability raise questions about mortality data based onMCCD. Clear guidance is required fromWHOfor those completingMCCDfor people with intellectual disability.
Oxygen uptake efficiency slope during exercise in adults with Down syndrome
Authors: Mendonca Goncalo V. , Borges Afonso , Wee Sang O. , Fernhall Bo
Published: March 2018

Background

Persons with Down syndrome (DS) have low aerobic exercise capacity. The present authors sought to compare the oxygen uptake efficiency slope (OUES) between adults with and without DS performing graded exercise testing (GXT) and to investigate its relationship with peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) in both groups of participants.

Method

Twenty‐three participants with DS and 24 non‐disabled controls performed GXT with VO2 measurements. OUES was calculated from data of the first 75%, 90% and 100% GXT time. Multiple linear regression analyses were computed to explore associations between the independent (OUES and DS) and the dependent variables (VO2peak).

Results

VO2peak, GXT time and OUES were lower in participants with DS (p < .05). OUES and DS explained 69.3% of the variance in VO2peak.

Conclusions

Our findings show that OUES values are lower in persons with DS. Additionally, it was shown that OUES has predictive value for VO2peak estimations in DS.
Islands as biological substrates: Continental
Authors: Ali Jason R.
Published: March 2018

Aim

Describe the main geo‐physical features of the various sorts of marine islands that are associated with the continents and consider how the ontogenetic pathways of each landmass type might have shaped the hosted biotas.

Location

Global.

Methods

Review of the literature that underpins understanding of the “continental” marine islands, particularly those publications with biological, geological, geophysical, oceanographical and palaeoceanographical foci.

Results

Based on their geo‐physical settings, islands with continental basements/close connections to the continents can be assigned to one of nine categories: shelf, shelf volcano, orogenic margin, continental arc, continental fore‐arc, rifted arc‐raft, isolated raft atoll, isolated block and micro‐continental terrane. As each functions in a distinctive manner, this must have strongly imprinted the native biotas.

Main conclusions

“Continental” marine islands can be allocated to one of nine groups based on their respective geo‐physical locations. When geological time is considered, then the unique histories of each insular landmass type will have played a critical role in moulding the land‐locked faunal assemblages that have amassed and evolved atop them. Researchers investigating insular biotas, particularly those exploring biodiversity growth, may wish to accommodate these insights.
Key stages in the evolution of the Antarctic marine fauna
Authors: Crame J. Alistair
Published: March 2018

We are beginning to appreciate that the origin of the modern Antarctic marine fauna is related to a series of key events throughout the Cenozoic era. In the first of these, the mass extinction at the Cretaceous–Palaeogene boundary (66 Ma) reset the evolutionary stage and led to a major radiation of modern taxa in the benthic realm. Although this took place in a greenhouse world, there is evidence to suggest that the radiation was tempered by the seasonality of primary productivity, and this may be a time‐invariant feature of the polar regions. Although there could well have been a single, abrupt extinction event atc. 34 Ma, there is also evidence to suggest a phased extinction of various taxa over a period of millions of years. Important new molecular phylogenetic data are indicating that a wide variety of both benthic and pelagic taxa radiated shortly after a second major phase of cooling atc. 14 Ma. Such a phenomenon is linked to a series of major palaeoceanographic changes, which in turn led to a proliferation of diatom‐based ecosystems. Although the modern benthic marine fauna can be traced back some 45–50 Myr, a substantial component of the modern pelagic one may be less than 14 Myr old. The latter is also characterized by assemblages of high abundance but comparatively low species richness and evenness. A distinctive signature of low diversity but high dominance within Antarctic marine assemblages was maintained by the interplay between temperature and primary productivity throughout the Cenozoic.
A cross‐continental comparison of assemblages of seed‐ and fruit‐feeding insects in tropical rain forests: Faunal composition and rates of attack
Authors: Basset Yves , Dahl Chris , Ctvrtecka Richard , Gripenberg Sofia , Lewis Owen T. , Segar Simon T. , Klimes Petr , Barrios Héctor , Brown John W. , Bunyavejchewin Sarayudh , Butcher Buntika A. , Cognato Anthony I. , Davies Stuart , Kaman Ondrej , Knizek Milos , Miller Scott E. , Morse Geoffrey E. , Novotny Vojtech , Pongpattananurak Nantachai , Pramual Pairot , Quicke Donald L. J. , Robbins Robert K. , Sakchoowong Watana , Schutze Mark , Vesterinen Eero J. , Wang Wen‐zhi , Wang Yun‐yu , Weiblen George , Wright Joseph S.
Published: March 2018

Aim

Insects feeding on seeds and fruits represent interesting study systems, potentially able to lower the fitness of their host plants. In addition to true seed eaters, a suite of insects feed on the fleshy parts of fruits. We examined the likelihood of community convergence in whole insect assemblages attacking seeds/fruits in three tropical rain forests.

Location

Three ForestGEO permanent forest plots within different biogeographical regions: Barro Colorado Island (Panama), Khao Chong (Thailand) and Wanang (Papua New Guinea).

Methods

We surveyed 1,186 plant species and reared 1.1 ton of seeds/fruits that yielded 80,600 insects representing at least 1,678 species. We assigned seeds/fruits to predation syndromes on the basis of plant traits relevant to insects, seed/fruit appearance and mesocarp thickness.

Results

We observed large differences in insect faunal composition, species richness and guild structure between our three study sites. We hypothesize that the high species richness of insect feeding on seeds/fruits in Panama may result from a conjunction of low plant species richness and high availability of dry fruits. Insect assemblages were weakly influenced by seed predation syndromes, both at the local and regional scale, and the effect of host phylogeny varied also among sites. At the driest site (Panama), the probability of seeds of a plant species being attacked depended more on seed availability than on the measured seed traits of that plant species. However, when seeds were attacked, plant traits shaping insect assemblages were difficult to identify and not related to seed availability.

Main conclusions

We observed only weak evidence of community convergence at the intercontinental scale among these assemblages. Our study suggests that seed eaters may be most commonly associated with dry fruits at relatively dry tropical sites where fleshy fruits may be less prevalent.
Drivers and constraints on floral latitudinal diversification gradients
Authors: Jardine Phillip E. , Harrington Guy J. , Sessa Jocelyn A. , Dašková Jiřina
Published: March 2018

Aim

The latitudinal diversity gradient (LDG) is a primary emergent property of the biosphere, yet the cause(s) of this pattern are still debated. Key to many hypotheses is the origins and maintenance of tropical hyperdiversity, and the role of climate in driving low latitude speciation. Here, we analyse patterns of tropical and extratropical floral diversification and migration during the early Palaeogene “greenhouse” interval, to shed further light on the relationship between climatic change, latitude and floral diversity.

Location

The early Palaeogene, from ~63 to 42 million years ago, of the US Gulf Coastal Plain (GCP) and Colombia.

Taxon

Terrestrial plants, using pollen and spores as a proxy.

Methods

We analyse species diversity trends using coverage and sample size‐based interpolation and extrapolation, Chao1 estimated richness, and evenness metrics. Capture–mark–recapture (CMR) modelling is used to estimate origination and extinction probabilities. Origination patterns on the GCP are separated into in situ speciation versus immigration.

Results

While Colombian (tropical) palynofloral richness and origination rates increased in conjunction with warming, GCP richness remained stable. The single rise in GCP origination rates, coincident with the Palaeocene–Eocene Thermal Maximum, was largely driven by the immigration of Eurasian taxa, rather than in situ origination, which was the case in Colombia.

Main conclusions

These results show that the relationships among climatic parameters and diversification and dispersal are not straightforward. While temperature may have driven diversification in the tropics, other factors, such as precipitation, insolation or biological interactions, may have constrained diversification in the extratropics. Furthermore, our results suggest that outward dispersal from the tropics was limited in the warm world of the early Palaeogene, with most GCP immigrants being sourced from other extratropical regions. These findings suggest that the tropics and extratropics may have functioned independently at this time.
Do clinical characteristics predict the cognitive course in early‐onset schizophrenia‐spectrum disorders?
Authors: Teigset Charlotte M. , Mohn Christine , Brunborg Cathrine , Juuhl‐Langseth Monica , Holmén Aina , Rund Bjørn Rishovd
Published: March 2018

Background

Being in a period with extensive brain maturation, adolescents with early‐onset schizophrenia‐spectrum disorders (EOS) provide unique neurodevelopmental data that may contribute to a better understanding of schizophrenia at all ages. Cognitive dysfunction is a central feature of schizophrenia and is more pronounced in EOS than in later onset illness. However, there is limited research on both the long‐term course of global cognition in EOS, and how cognition over time is influenced by clinical characteristics during the early illness period.

Methods

Thirty‐one EOS patients and 73 controls (age 12–18) were assessed on clinical variables at baseline (PANSS, duration of untreated psychosis [DUP], hospitalizations, suicide attempts, and remission). Neuropsychological assessments with the MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Battery (MCCB) were conducted at baseline and after both 1 and 2 years, and composite scores of total performances were calculated. The analyses were performed with a linear mixed model.

Results

The present study found that global cognition followed a stable course over the first years of the disease in EOS, though at a significantly lower level in EOS compared with the controls. We did not detect a relationship between DUP, remission, positive/negative symptoms, and hospitalizations on one hand, and long‐term cognition on the other hand, but PANSS‐general and suicide attempt history at baseline were identified as risk factors of longitudinal cognitive function.

Conclusions

Though at different levels, the EOS group and the controls had a similar cognitive course over 2 years. Some baseline characteristics (psychotic symptoms, DUP, remission, and hospitalization) had no influence on cognition within the first 2 years of illness. In contrast, general symptoms and a history of suicide attempts at baseline were more potent risk factors of the cognitive course than the psychotic‐specific symptoms, and should, therefore, be subject to specific attention in the evaluation and treatment of patients with early‐onset psychosis.
Prenatal diet and children's trajectories of hyperactivity–inattention and conduct problems from 3 to 8 years: the EDEN mother–child cohort
Authors: Galera Cédric , Heude Barbara , Forhan Anne , Bernard Jonathan Y. , Peyre Hugo , Van der Waerden Judith , Pryor Laura , Bouvard Manuel‐Pierre , Melchior Maria , Lioret Sandrine , de Lauzon‐Guillain Blandine ,   the EDEN Mother–Child Cohort Study Group
Published: March 2018

Background

Evidence shows that diet contributes substantially to lifelong physical and mental health. Although dietary exposure during gestation and early postnatal life is critical, human epidemiological data are limited regarding its link with children's subsequent externalizing issues. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of maternal diet during pregnancy in offspring's symptoms of hyperactivity–inattention and conduct problems from ages 3 to 8 years.

Methods

We used data of 1,242 mother–child pairs from a French cohort followed up from pregnancy until the children were 8 years of age. Dietary patterns (DP) of the mother during pregnancy were assessed with food frequency questionnaires. Children's externalizing behavior was assessed with the Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire at ages 3, 5, and 8 years, from which trajectories of hyperactivity–inattention symptoms and conduct problems were derived. We conducted multivariable logistic models to study associations adjusted for a range of potential confounders.

Results

Results showed significant relationships between maternal ‘low Healthy diet’ (adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR) = 1.61; IC 95%: 1.09–2.37) and ‘high Western diet’ (aOR = 1.67; IC 95%: 1.13–2.47) during pregnancy and children's trajectories of high symptoms of hyperactivity–inattention. The associations took into account relevant confounders such as DP of the children at age 2 years, maternal stress and depression, gestational diabetes, and socioeconomic variables.

Conclusions

Maternal diet during pregnancy was independently associated with children's hyperactivity–inattention symptoms but not with conduct problems. Early prevention addressing lifestyle should specifically target diet in pregnant women.