bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimal Reactivity and Improved Self‐Healing Capability of Structurally Dynamic Polymers Grafted on Janus Nanoparticles Governed by Chain Stiffness and Spatial Organization
Authors: Xu Guoxi , Huang Zihan , Chen Pengyu , Cui Tianqi , Zhang Xinghua , Miao Bing , Yan Li‐Tang
Published: January 2017

Structurally dynamic polymers are recognized as a key potential to revolutionize technologies ranging from design of self‐healing materials to numerous biomedical applications. Despite intense research in this area, optimizing reactivity and thereby improving self‐healing ability at the most fundamental level pose urgent issue for wider applications of such emerging materials. Here, the authors report the first mechanistic investigation of the fundamental principle for the dependence of reactivity and self‐healing capabilities on the properties inherent to dynamic polymers by combining large‐scale computer simulation, theoretical analysis, and experimental discussion. The results allow to reveal how chain stiffness and spatial organization regulate reactivity of dynamic polymers grafted on Janus nanoparticles and mechanically mediated reaction in their reverse chemistry, and, particularly, identify that semiflexible dynamic polymers possess the optimal reactivity and self‐healing ability. The authors also develop an analytical model of blob theory of polymer chains to complement the simulation results and reveal essential scaling laws for optimal reactivity. The findings offer new insights into the physical mechanism in various systems involving reverse/dynamic chemistry. These studies highlight molecular engineering of polymer architecture and intrinsic property as a versatile strategy in control over the structural responses and functionalities of emerging materials with optimized self‐healing capabilities.
Modular composition of multiple applications with architectural event modules
Authors: Malakuti Somayeh
Published: January 2017

A complex software system is usually developed as a system of systems (SoS's) in which multiple constituent applications are composed and coordinated to fulfill desired system‐level requirements. To facilitate the interoperability of the constituent applications, they must be augmented with suitable coordination‐specific interfaces, through which they can participate in coordinated interactions. To increase the reusability of the applications and to increase the comprehensibility of SoS's, suitable mechanisms are required to modularize the coordination rules and interfaces from the constituent applications. We introduce a new abstraction named as architectural event modules (AEMs), which facilitates defining constituent applications and desired coordination rules as modules of SoS's. AEMs modularly augment the constituent applications with event‐based interfaces to let them participate in coordinated interactions. We introduce the EventArch language in which the concept of AEMs is implemented, and illustrate its suitability using a case study in the domain of energy optimization. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exosomal miR-146a Contributes to the Enhanced Therapeutic Efficacy of Interleukin-1β-Primed Mesenchymal Stem Cells Against Sepsis
Authors: Song Yuxian , Dou Huan , Li Xiujun , Zhao Xiaoyin , Li Yi , Liu Dan , Ji Jianjian , Liu Fei , Ding Liang , Ni Yanhong , Hou Yayi
Published: January 2017

Improving the immunomodulatory efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) through pretreatment with pro-inflammatory cytokines is an evolving field of investigation. However, the underlying mechanisms have not been fully clarified. Here, we pretreated human umbilical cord-derived MSCs with interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and evaluated their therapeutic effects in a cecal ligation and puncture-induced sepsis model. We found that systemic administration of IL-1β-pretreated MSCs (βMSCs) ameliorated the symptoms of murine sepsis more effectively and increased the survival rate compared with naïve MSCs. Furthermore, βMSCs could more effectively induce macrophage polarization toward an anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype through the paracrine activity. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that βMSC-derived exosomes contributed to the enhanced immunomodulatory properties of βMSCs both in vitro and in vivo. Importantly, we found that miR-146a, a well-known anti-inflammatory microRNA, was strongly upregulated by IL-1β stimulation and selectively packaged into exosomes. This exosomal miR-146a was transferred to macrophages, resulted in M2 polarization, and finally led to increased survival in septic mice. In contrast, inhibition of miR-146a through transfection with miR-146a inhibitors partially negated the immunomodulatory properties of βMSC-derived exosomes. Taken together, IL-1β pretreatment effectively enhanced the immunomodulatory properties of MSCs partially through exosome-mediated transfer of miR-146a. Therefore, we believe that IL-1β pretreatment may provide a new modality for better therapeutic application of MSCs in inflammatory disorders.
A Paradox of Matter and Form
Authors: Fairchild Maegan ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: January 2017

In the face of the puzzles of material constitution, some philosophers (hylomorphists) have been moved to posit a distinction between an object’s matter and its form. A familiar difficulty for contemporary hylomorphism is to say which properties are eligible as forms: for example, it seems that it would be intolerably arbitrary to say that being statue shaped is embodied by some material object, but that other complex shape properties aren’t. Anti-arbitrariness concerns lead quickly to a plenitudinous ontology. The usual complaint is that the super-abundance of material objects is too extraordinary to accept, but I want to raise a different worry: I argue that the most natural way of developing this picture is already inconsistent. I show that a simple version of plenitudinous hylomorphism is subject to a Russellian argument, but argue that we cannot treat the problem straightforwardly as an instance of Russell’s Paradox of Sets.
Competition between similar invasive species: modeling invasional interference across a landscape
Authors: Rauschert Emily Sofia Jalics , Shea Katriona
Published: January 2017

As the number of biological invasions increases, interactions between different invasive species will become increasingly important. Several studies have examined facilitative invader–invader interactions, potentially leading to invasional meltdown. However, if invader interactions are negative, invasional interference may lead to lower invader abundance and spread. To explore this possibility, we develop models of two competing invaders. A landscape simulation model examines the patterns created by two such species invading into the same region. We then apply the model to a case study of Carduus nutans L. and C. acanthoides L., two economically important invasive weeds that exhibit a spatially segregated distribution in central Pennsylvania, USA. The results of these spatially‐explicit models are generally consistent with the results of classic Lotka–Volterra competition models, with widespread coexistence predicted if interspecific effects are weaker than intraspecific effects for both species. However, spatial segregation of the two species (with lower net densities and no further spread) may arise, particularly when interspecific competition is stronger than intraspecific competition. A moving area of overlap may result when one species is a superior competitor. In the Carduus system, our model suggests that invasional interference will lead to lower levels of each species when together, but a similar net level of thistle invasion due to the similarity of intra‐ and interspecific competition. Thus, invasional interference may have important implications for the distribution and management of invasive species.
High Content of Dicranin in Anisothecium spirale (Mitt.) Broth., a Moss from Eastern Himalayas and Its Chemotaxonomic Significance
Authors: Mitra Souvik
Published: January 2017

Chemical investigation of Anisothecium spirale (Mitt.) Broth. (Family Dicranaceae), an epiphytic moss from the Darjeeling district hill region of the Eastern Himalayas was performed for the first time. Analysis of neutral lipid and phospholipid classes as well as their respective fatty acids revealed the presence of a significantly high content of octadeca‐6‐yn‐9,12,15‐trienoic acid, an acetylenic fatty acid commonly known as dicranin. Dicranin and a less abundant acetylenic fatty acid were detected in neutral lipids. The unique nature of the fatty acid signature supports the view of considering dicranin as chemotaxonomic marker for Dicranaceae members.
Fetal growth‐retardation and brain‐sparing by malnutrition are associated to changes in neurotransmitters profile
Authors: García‐Contreras C. , Valent D. , Vázquez‐Gómez M. , Arroyo L. , Isabel B. , Astiz S. , Bassols A. , Gonzalez‐Bulnes A.
Published: January 2017

The present study assesses possible changes in the levels of different neurotransmitters (catecholamines and indoleamines) in fetuses affected by nutrient shortage. Hence, we determined the concentration of catecholamines and indoleamines at the hypothalamus of 56 swine fetuses obtained at both 70 and 90 days of pregnancy (n = 33 and 23 fetuses, respectively). The degree of fetal development and the fetal sex affected the neurotransmitters profile at both stages. At Day 70, there were found higher mean concentrations of l‐DOPA in both female and male fetuses with severe IUGR; male fetuses with severe IUGR also showed higher concentrations of TRP than normal male littermates. At Day 90 of pregnancy, the differences between sexes were more evident. There were no significant effects from either severe IUGR on the neurotransmitter profile in male fetuses. However, in the females, a lower body‐weight was related to lower concentrations of l‐DOPA and TRP and those female fetuses affected by severe IUGR evidenced lower HVA concentration. In conclusion, the fetal synthesis and use of neurotransmitters increase with time of pregnancy but, in case of IUGR, both catecholamines and indoleamines pathways are affected by sex‐related effects.
Improved Arousal and Motor Function Using Zolpidem in a Patient With Space‐Occupying Intracranial Lesions: A Case Report
Authors: Bomalaski Martin Nicholas , Smith Sean Robinson
Published: January 2017

Patients with disorders of consciousness (DOC) have profound functional limitations with few treatment options for improving arousal and quality of life. Zolpidem is a nonbenzodiazepine hypnotic used to treat insomnia that has also been observed to paradoxically improve arousal in those with DOC, such as the vegetative or minimally conscious states. Little information exists on its use in patients with DOC who have intracranial space‐occupying lesions. We present a case of a 24‐year‐old man in a minimally conscious state due to central nervous system lymphoma who was observed to have increased arousal and improved motor function after the administration of zolpidem.

Level of Evidence

V
Sonographically Guided Knee Meniscus Injections: Feasibility, Techniques, and Validation
Authors: Baria Michael R. , Sellon Jacob L. , Lueders Dan , Smith Jay
Published: January 2017

Background

There is a growing interest in the use of biologic agents such as platelet‐rich plasma and mesenchymal stem/stromal cells to treat musculoskeletal injuries, including meniscal tears. Although previous research has documented the role of diagnostic ultrasound to evaluate meniscal tears, sonographically guided (SG) techniques to specifically deliver therapeutic agents into the meniscus have not been described.

Objective

To describe and validate SG injection techniques for the body and posterior horn of the medial and lateral meniscus.

Design

Prospective, cadaveric laboratory investigation.

Setting

Academic institution procedural skills laboratory.

Subjects

Five unenbalmed cadaveric knee‐ankle‐foot specimens from 5 donors (3 female and 2 male) ages 33‐92 years (mean age 74 years) with body mass indices of 21.1‐32.4 kg/m2 (mean 24.1 kg/m2).

Methods

A single, experienced operator completed SG injections into the bodies and posterior horns of the medial and lateral menisci of 5 unenbalmed cadaveric knees using colored latex and a 22‐gauge, 38‐mm needle. After injection, coinvestigators dissected each specimen to assess latex distribution within the menisci and identify injury to intra‐articular and periarticular structures.

Main Outcome Measures

Latex location within the target region of meniscus (accurate/inaccurate), and iatrogenic injury to “at risk” intra‐ and periarticular structures (present/absent).

Results

Seventeen of 20 injections were accurate. Two of 3 inaccurate injections infiltrated the posterior horn of the medial meniscus instead of the targeted meniscal body. One inaccurate lateral meniscus injection did not contain latex despite sonographically accurate needle placement. No specimen exhibited injury to regional neurovascular structures or intra‐articular hyaline cartilage.

Conclusions

SG meniscus injections are feasible and can accurately and safely deliver injectates such as regenerative agents into bodies and posterior horns of the medial and lateral menisci. The role of SG intrameniscal injections in the treatment of patients with degenerative and traumatic meniscal disorders warrants further exploration.

Level of Evidence

Not applicable.
Rehabilitation of the Pontine Ataxia‐Dysmetria Syndrome
Authors: Li Stephanie , Hartman Kasondra , Surapaneni Krishna , Altschuler Eric L.
Published: January 2017

We present a case of a patient with significant ataxia and dysmetria following a lacunar pontine infarction and review the literature on this uncommon syndrome. The patient had an excellent clinical course with near resolution of symptoms and signs in less than 3 weeks. We illustrate the patient's ataxia and dysmetria with videos and also use the videos to demonstrate and characterize the features of the dysmetria. Interestingly, the characteristics of the dysmetria appear to be different from those seen in patients with dysmetria arising from a cerebellar or thalamic lesion. We discuss the likely neurophysiologic mechanisms responsible for the condition and recovery. Simple noninvasive study of patients with ataxia and dysmetria secondary to a pontine lacunar infarct may be most helpful in elucidating the contribution of pontocerebellar fibers to motor control.

Level of Evidence

V
Propofol as a Risk Factor for ICU-Acquired Weakness in Septic Patients with Acute Respiratory Failure
Authors: Abdelmalik Peter A. , Rakocevic Goran
Published: January 2017

Background:Critical illness polyneuropathy (CIN) and critical illness myopathy (CIM), together “ICU-Acquired weakness (ICUAW),” occur frequently in septic patients. One of the proposed mechanisms for ICUAW includes prolonged inactivation of sodium channels. Propofol, used commonly in patients with acute respiratory failure (ARF), primarily acts via enhancement of GABAergic transmission but may also increase sodium channel inactivation, suggesting a potential interaction.Methods:Electronic medical records and EMG reports of patients with ICUAW and a diagnosis of either sepsis, septicaemia, severe sepsis, or septic shock, concurrent with a diagnosis of acute respiratory failure (ARF), were retrospectively analyzed in a single center university hospital.Results:74 cases were identified (50.0% men, age 58±14 years), and compared to age- and sex-matched controls. Of these, 51 (69%) had CIN, 19 (26%) had CIM, and 4 (5%) had both. Propofol exposure was significantly higher in patients with ICUAW compared to controls (63.5% vs. 33.8%, p<0.001). The odds ratio of developing ICUAW with propofol exposure was 3.4 (95% CI:1.7-6.7, p<0.001). Patients with ICUAW had significantly more days in hospital (59±44 vs. 30±23) and ICU (38±26 vs. 17±13), days dependent on mechanical ventilation (27±21 vs. 13±16), and rates of tracheostomy (79.7% vs. 36.5%) and gastrostomy (75.7% vs. 25.7%) (all p<0.001). They also received a significantly higher number of distinct intravenous antibiotics, cumulative days of antibiotic therapy, and exposure to vasopressors and paralytics.Conclusions:Propofol exposure may increase the risk of ICUAW in septic patients. An interaction through sodium channel inactivation is hypothesized.
Forceful Federalism against American Racial Inequality
Authors: King Desmond
Published: January 2017

Why, many Americans rightly ask, can material racial inequality and widespread segregation still persist 50 years after the enactment of key civil rights legislation and eight years after the election of an African American to the nation’s highest office? Many from outside the US pose similar questions about modern America. The explanation, I argue, lies with inconsistent and fluctuating levels of federal engagement to building material racial equality. National engagement fluctuates because it is energetically resisted and challenged by opponents of racial progress. This vulnerability to disruption is exposed by varying strategies of resistance, some fiscal, some violent, some judicial, some desultory and some combining violent protest against change with local electoral triumphs for anti-reformers. Public resistance to employing national resources to reduce inequality encouraged a de-racialization strategy amongst many African American candidates for elected office who opt to de-emphasize issues of racial inequality in campaigns and in office. Whatever the means, the effect is uniform: the slowing down or outright death of federal civil rights activism.
A Systematic Literature Review of the Application of Information
Communication Technology for Visually Impaired People
Authors: Ashraf Md Mahfuz , Hasan Najmul , Lewis Lundy , Hasan Md Rashadul , Ray Pradeep
Published: January 2017

Technological advancement in general is providing better and cheaper solutions to
assist the visually impaired (VI) community. Although information communication
technology (ICT) has great potential to support the inclusion of VI people in
educational, social and workforce settings, there are far fewer ICT projects for
VI people compared to other projects. This systematic literature review provides
our findings on the existing state of ICT projects and describes outstanding
issues in ICT support of VI people. Based on our findings, we suggest increased
collaboration among healthcare professionals, caregivers, programmers,
engineers, as well as policy makers; and adoption of policies in future ICT
projects for VI people. A wide search of seven journal databases found a
relevant cross-section of articles that were published between 2010 and 2015.
Software Zotero Standalone and EndNote were used to screen and maintain
metadata. After the initial screening of 6993 titles, 683 abstracts were
scrutinised, from which 55 full text articles were selected for final review. We
analysed and synthesised 37 articles. Our findings show the progress, awareness,
interest, and issues in ICT integration to improve the quality of life for VI
people. Three emergent topics for VI people are (a) assistive technology, (b)
e-accessibility, and (c) virtual interfaces. Our findings suggest that ICT-aided
applications can bring positive changes for VI people. We advance several issues
that should be addressed and further developed, collaboratively, to spread
awareness and invoke new policies aimed to improve the quality of life of VI
people.
Debating Europe, transforming identities: assessing the impact of deliberative poll treatment on identity
Authors: Di Mauro Danilo , Fiket Irena
Published: January 2017

Although there is a considerable amount of talk about transformative power of deliberation on identity, the debate in literature remains highly theoretical in underlying the benefits of deliberative model for EU Integration. So far, little empirical evidence is available on the actual impact of deliberation.Can deliberation enhance European identity?We specifically address this question by using deliberative polling quasi-experiment that involved random sample of 348 European citizens in 2 days deliberationon issuesof Europeanconcern.The comparison of citizens’ sense of belonging to both EU and nation states before and after deliberation, allowed us to explore the effects of deliberation on identity and further test it against the control group. The analyses show that when European citizens are enabled to deliberate on European issues beyond national borders their exclusive national identity decreases and they become more community minded. The observed transformation of identities is further analyzed in order to explore the relationship between European and national identity. The analyses indicate that even after deliberative treatment in which European identity has been activated the relationship between multiple identities remains compatible.
An assessment of the influence of macronutrients on growth performance and nutrient utilisation in broiler chickens by nutritional geometry
Authors: Liu Sonia Y. , Selle Peter H. , Raubenheimer David , Cadogan David J. , Simpson Stephen J. , Cowieson Aaron J.
Published: January 2017

The right-angled triangle mixture experiment was designed to include fourteen diets with different concentrations of starch, protein and lipid. Experimental diets were offered to male Ross 308 broiler chickens from 10 to 23 d after hatching, and response curves and surfaces were generated to illustrate the influence of macronutrients on growth performance and nutrient utilisations. Despite the primary function of macronutrients, especially protein, may not be providing energy, macronutrients were expressed as energy derived from starch, protein and fat for statistical purposes in the mixture design. Energy derived from lipid had a greater impact on feed intake than energy derived from starch and protein. When we compared the influence of starch and protein on feed intake, ‘equal distance rule’ was observed, which means the animal consumes feed to the point on its respective nutritional rails where the shortage of starch exactly equals the surplus of consumed protein. Increasing the protein-derived energy intake increased weight gain in broiler chickens, whereas energy intake derived from starch and lipid had little impact on weight gain. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) may be reduced by either increasing protein energy intake or decreasing starch energy intake. As the slope of the contours was less than 1, the influence of starch energy intakes on FCR exceeded that of protein energy intakes. In conclusion, energy derived from protein is more important than non-protein energy in terms of weight gain, and a balance between protein and energy supplies is required for efficient muscle protein deposition.
Population dynamics, relative growth and sex change of the protandric simultaneous hermaphroditeExhippolysmata oplophoroides(Caridea: Lysmatidae) close to an upwelling area
Authors: Pescinelli Régis A. , Davanso Thiago M. , Pantaleão João A. F. , Carvalho-Batista Abner , Bauer Raymond T. , Costa Rogério C.
Published: January 2017

The present study investigated the population dynamics ofExhippolysmata oplophoroidesin an area influenced by upwelling, focusing on reproductive period, sex ratio, growth rate, longevity, mortality, relative growth and size of sex change. We also tested the hypothesis that the appendices internae increased in size with sex change from the male to the simultaneous hermaphrodite phase as possible replacements for the male appendices masculinae, which are reduced or lost at sex change. Population structure was assessed by the distribution of size frequency in three demographic groups: male phase, hermaphrodite phase with, and without embryos. For relative growth analysis, the length of the following structures was measured: carapace, second pleuron, first pereopod, second pereopod, appendices internae of the second to fifth pleopods, and appendix masculina. Smaller size classes were composed only by male-phase individuals. The sex ratio was significantly biased towards the simultaneous hermaphrodite phase. Reproduction was continuous in the population throughout the year. Slower growth rates but higher maximum body sizes than those estimated at other locations in south-eastern Brazil were observed in the population studied. Cooler temperatures and higher nutrient levels associated with upwelling may have produced this pattern of reproduction and growth, similar to that found in more southerly austral latitudes. We also found that sex change influences the relative growth of body structures such as the second pereopods, appendices internae, and appendix masculina, and hypotheses on the adaptive value of such allometric growth are proposed.
Intranasal oxytocin increases facial expressivity, but not ratings of trustworthiness, in patients with schizophrenia and healthy controls
Authors: Woolley J. D. , Chuang B. , Fussell C. , Scherer S. , Biagianti B. , Fulford D. , Mathalon D. H. , Vinogradov S.
Published: January 2017

Background

Blunted facial affect is a common negative symptom of schizophrenia. Additionally, assessing the trustworthiness of faces is a social cognitive ability that is impaired in schizophrenia. Currently available pharmacological agents are ineffective at improving either of these symptoms, despite their clinical significance. The hypothalamic neuropeptide oxytocin has multiple prosocial effects when administered intranasally to healthy individuals and shows promise in decreasing negative symptoms and enhancing social cognition in schizophrenia. Although two small studies have investigated oxytocin's effects on ratings of facial trustworthiness in schizophrenia, its effects on facial expressivity have not been investigated in any population.

Method

We investigated the effects of oxytocin on facial emotional expressivity while participants performed a facial trustworthiness rating task in 33 individuals with schizophrenia and 35 age-matched healthy controls using a double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over design. Participants rated the trustworthiness of presented faces interspersed with emotionally evocative photographs while being video-recorded. Participants’ facial expressivity in these videos was quantified by blind raters using a well-validated manualized approach (i.e. the Facial Expression Coding System; FACES).

Results

While oxytocin administration did not affect ratings of facial trustworthiness, it significantly increased facial expressivity in individuals with schizophrenia (Z = −2.33, p = 0.02) and at trend level in healthy controls (Z = −1.87, p = 0.06).

Conclusions

These results demonstrate that oxytocin administration can increase facial expressivity in response to emotional stimuli and suggest that oxytocin may have the potential to serve as a treatment for blunted facial affect in schizophrenia.
A comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis of pharmacological and dietary supplement interventions in paediatric autism: moderators of treatment response and recommendations for future research
Authors: Masi A. , Lampit A. , DeMayo M. M. , Glozier N. , Hickie I. B. , Guastella A. J.
Published: January 2017

Background

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are pervasive and multifactorial neurodevelopmental conditions, characterized by impairments in social communication and interaction, and restricted, repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests or activities. Treatment options to ameliorate symptoms of ASDs are limited. Heterogeneity complicates the quest for personalized medicine in this population. Our aim was to investigate if there are baseline characteristics of patients that moderate response or trial design features that impede the identification of efficacious interventions for ASDs.

Method

Literature searches of EMBASE, MEDLINE and PsycINFO identified 43 studies for qualitative assessment of baseline characterization of participants and 37 studies for quantitative analysis of moderators of treatment response. Criteria included blinded randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in paediatric ASD, with at least 10 participants per arm or 20 overall, of oral treatments, including pharmacological interventions and dietary supplements.

Results

Random-effects meta-analysis of 1997 participants (81% male) identified three moderators associated with an increase in treatment response: trials located in Europe and the Middle-East; outcome measures designated primary status; and the type of outcome measure. Inconsistent reporting of baseline symptom severity and intellectual functioning prevented analysis of these variables. Qualitative synthesis of baseline characteristics identified at least 31 variables, with only age and gender reported in all trials. Biological markers were included in six RCTs.

Conclusions

Few trials reported adequate baseline characteristics to permit detailed analysis of response to treatment. Consideration of geographical location, baseline severity and intellectual function is required to ensure generalizability of results. The use of biological markers and correlates in ASD trials remains in its infancy. There is great need to improve the application of baseline characterization and incorporation of biological markers and correlates to permit selection of participants into homogeneous subgroups and to inform response to treatment in ASD.
Prediction of transition to psychosis in patients with a clinical high risk for psychosis: a systematic review of methodology and reporting
Authors: Studerus E. , Ramyead A. , Riecher-Rössler A.
Published: January 2017

Background

To enhance indicated prevention in patients with a clinical high risk (CHR) for psychosis, recent research efforts have been increasingly directed towards estimating the risk of developing psychosis on an individual level using multivariable clinical prediction models. The aim of this study was to systematically review the methodological quality and reporting of studies developing or validating such models.

Method

A systematic literature search was carried out (up to 14 March 2016) to find all studies that developed or validated a clinical prediction model predicting the transition to psychosis in CHR patients. Data were extracted using a comprehensive item list which was based on current methodological recommendations.

Results

A total of 91 studies met the inclusion criteria. None of the retrieved studies performed a true external validation of an existing model. Only three studies (3.5%) had an event per variable ratio of at least 10, which is the recommended minimum to avoid overfitting. Internal validation was performed in only 14 studies (15%) and seven of these used biased internal validation strategies. Other frequently observed modeling approaches not recommended by methodologists included univariable screening of candidate predictors, stepwise variable selection, categorization of continuous variables, and poor handling and reporting of missing data.

Conclusions

Our systematic review revealed that poor methods and reporting are widespread in prediction of psychosis research. Since most studies relied on small sample sizes, did not perform internal or external cross-validation, and used poor model development strategies, most published models are probably overfitted and their reported predictive accuracy is likely to be overoptimistic.
How Women's Political Representation affects Spending on Family Benefits
Authors: ENNSER-JEDENASTIK LAURENZ
Published: January 2017

Recent research finds that women's political representation correlates with higher social expenditures. This paper makes two more specific predictions regarding family benefits. First, women voters and politicians are likely to prefer in-kind benefits to cash transfers. This is because the provision of childcare does more than money can do to ameliorate the double burden of work and family duties, thus strengthening women's autonomy. As a consequence female political representation should correlate with spending on in-kind family benefits, but not with expenditures on cash transfers. Second, the pressure on politicians to provide childcare services should be greater when there are higher levels of female participation in the labour force. Assuming that women politicians are more responsive to such demands, we should see a positive interaction effect between female labour force participation and women's political representation on in-kind spending. An analysis of public expenditures for family benefits in 27 OECD nations between 1980 and 2011 bears out both propositions.
On the Hardy–Sobolev equation
Authors: Dancer E. N. , Gladiali F. , Grossi M.
Published: January 2017

In this paper we study the problem

where Ω = ℝN or Ω = B1, N ⩾ 3, p > 1 and . Using a suitable map we transform problem (1) into another one without the singularity 1/|x|2. Then we obtain some bifurcation results from the radial solutions corresponding to some explicit values of λ.
Neumann to Steklov eigenvalues: asymptotic and monotonicity results
Authors: Lamberti Pier Domenico , Provenzano Luigi
Published: January 2017

We consider the Steklov eigenvalues of the Laplace operator as limiting Neumann eigenvalues in a problem of mass concentration at the boundary of a ball. We discuss the asymptotic behaviour of the Neumann eigenvalues and find explicit formulae for their derivatives in the limiting problem. We deduce that the Neumann eigenvalues have a monotone behaviour in the limit and that Steklov eigenvalues locally minimize the Neumann eigenvalues.
Correlation between infectious disease and soil radiation in Japan: an exploratory study using national sentinel surveillance data
Authors: INAIDA S. , TSUDA T. , MATSUNO S.
Published: January 2017

We investigated the relationship between epidemics and soil radiation through an exploratory study using sentinel surveillance data (individuals aged <20 years) during the last three epidemic seasons of influenza and norovirus in Japan. We used a spatial analysis method of a geographical information system (GIS). We mapped the epidemic spreading patterns from sentinel incidence rates. We calculated the average soil radiation [dm(μGy/h)] for each sentinel site using data on uranium, thorium, and potassium oxide in the soil and examined the incidence rate in units of 0·01μGy/h. The correlations between the incidence rate and the average soil radiation were assessed. Epidemic clusters of influenza and norovirus infections were observed in areas with relatively high radiation exposure. A positive correlation was detected between the average incidence rate and radiation dose, atr= 0·61–0·84 (P< 0·01) for influenza infections andr= 0·61–0·72 (P< 0·01) for norovirus infections. An increase in the incidence rate was found between areas with radiation exposure of 0 <dm< 0·01 and 0·15 ⩽dm< 0·16, at 1·80 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1·47–2·12] times higher for influenza infection and 2·07 (95% CI 1·53–2·61) times higher for norovirus infection. Our results suggest a potential association between decreased immunity and irradiation because of soil radiation. Further studies on immunity in these epidemic-prone areas are desirable.
A randomized controlled trial of Kundalini yoga in mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Eyre Harris A. , Siddarth Prabha , Acevedo Bianca , Van Dyk Kathleen , Paholpak Pattharee , Ercoli Linda , St. Cyr Natalie , Yang Hongyu , Khalsa Dharma S. , Lavretsky Helen
Published: January 2017

Background:

Global population aging will result in increasing rates of cognitive decline and dementia. Thus, effective, low-cost, and low side-effect interventions for the treatment and prevention of cognitive decline are urgently needed. Our study is the first to investigate the effects of Kundalini yoga (KY) training on mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

Methods:

Older participants (≥55 years of age) with MCI were randomized to either a 12-week KY intervention or memory enhancement training (MET; gold-standard, active control). Cognitive (i.e. memory and executive functioning) and mood (i.e. depression, apathy, and resilience) assessments were administered at baseline, 12 weeks and 24 weeks.

Results:

At baseline, 81 participants had no significant baseline group differences in clinical or demographic characteristics. At 12 weeks and 24 weeks, both KY and MET groups showed significant improvement in memory; however, only KY showed significant improvement in executive functioning. Only the KY group showed significant improvement in depressive symptoms and resilience at week 12.

Conclusion:

KY group showed short- and long-term improvements in executive functioning as compared to MET, and broader effects on depressed mood and resilience. This observation should be confirmed in future clinical trials of yoga intervention for treatment and prevention of cognitive decline (NCT01983930).
Proxy rated quality of life of care home residents with dementia: a systematic review
Authors: Robertson Sarah , Cooper Claudia , Hoe Juanita , Hamilton Olivia , Stringer Aisling , Livingston Gill
Published: January 2017

Background:

Quality of life (QoL) is an important outcome for people with dementia living in care homes but usually needs to be rated by a proxy. We do not know if relative or paid carer proxy reports differ. We conducted the first systematic review and meta-analysis of data investigating whether and how these proxy reports of QoL differ.

Methods:

We searched four databases: Medline, Embase, PsychInfo, and CINAHL in October 2015 with the terms: dementia, QoL, proxy, and care home. Included studies either compared proxy QoL ratings or investigated the factors associated with them. We meta-analyzed data comparing staff and family proxy rated QoL.

Results:

We included 17/105 papers identified. We found no difference between global proxy ratings of QoL (n = 1,290; pooled effect size 0.06 (95% CI = −0.08 to 0.19)). Studies investigating factors associated with ratings (n = 3,537) found family and staff ratings correlated with the resident's physical and mental health. Staff who were more distressed rated resident QoL lower. Relatives rated it lower when the resident had lived in the care home for longer, when they observed more restraint, or contributed more to fees.

Conclusions:

Relatives and staff proxy QoL ratings share a clear relationship to resident health and overall ratings were similar. Rater-specific factors were, however, also associated with scores. Understanding why different raters consider the QoL of the same person differently is an important consideration when evaluating the meaning of proxy rated QoL. Proxy raters’ backgrounds may affect their rating of QoL.
Assessment of the need for a cardiac morphology curriculum for paediatric cardiology fellows
Authors: Rogers Lindsay S. , Klein Melissa , James Jeanne , FitzGerald Michael
Published: January 2017

Background

Expert knowledge of cardiac malformations is essential for paediatric cardiologists. Current cardiac morphology fellowship teaching format, content, and nomenclature are left up to the discretion of the individual fellowship programmes. We aimed to assess practices and barriers in morphology education, perceived effectiveness of current curricula, and preferences for a standardised fellow morphology curriculum.

Methods

A web-based survey was developed de novo and administered anonymously via e-mail to all paediatric cardiology fellowship programme directors and associate directors in the United States of America; leaders were asked to forward the survey to fellows.

Results

A total of 35 directors from 32 programmes (51%) and 66 fellows responded. Curriculum formats varied: 28 (88%) programmes utilised pathological specimens, 25 (78%) invited outside faculty, and 16 (50%) utilised external conferences. Director nomenclature preferences were split – 6 (19%) Andersonian, 8 (25%) Van Praaghian, and 18 (56%) mixed. Barriers to morphology education included time and inconsistent nomenclature. One-third of directors reported that <90% of recent fellow graduates had adequate abilities to apply segmental anatomy, identify associated cardiac lesions, or communicate complex CHD. More structured teaching, protected time, and specimens were suggestions to improve curricula. Almost 75% would likely adopt/utilise an online morphology curriculum.

Conclusions

Cardiac morphology training varies in content and format among fellowships. Inconsistent nomenclature exists, and inadequate morphology knowledge is perceived to contribute to communication failures, both have potential patient safety implications. There is an educational need for a common, online cardiac morphology curriculum that could allow for fellow assessment of competency and contribute to more standardised communication in the field of paediatric cardiology.
A survey of exercise advice and recommendations in United Kingdom paediatric cardiac clinics
Authors: Williams Craig A. , Gowing Lucy , Horn Richard , Stuart Alan Graham
Published: January 2017

Background

Physical activity and exercise have important health benefits for children and adolescents with CHD. The objective of this study was to survey the provision of advice and recommendations in United Kingdom paediatric CHD clinics.

Methods

A three-page questionnaire was sent out to paediatric cardiac consultants in the United Kingdom, paediatric consultants with expertise in cardiology, and nursing staff (Paediatricians with Expertise in Cardiology Special Interest Group), as well as all members of the British Congenital Cardiovascular Association. The aim of this questionnaire was to determine the extent and scope of current information provision and to assess the importance that clinicians place on this advice.

Results

There were 68 responses in total, and the data showed that, of these, 24 (36%) clinicians had never provided paediatric CHD patients with written advice about exercise. Only 27 (39%) clinicians provided physical activity advice at every appointment. Lack of time during consultation (n=39, 56.9%), lack of training (n=38, 55.2%), and uncertainty about appropriate recommendations (n=38, 55.2%) were identified as the main factors preventing clinicians from providing patients with advice about physical activity.

Conclusion

Although healthcare providers consider physical activity to be very important, the provision of clear, specific advice and recommendations is underutilised; therefore, more education and provision of resources to support the promotion of exercise need to be provided to clinicians and their support teams.
Red flags: a case series of clinician–family communication challenges in the context of CHD
Authors: Sekar Priya , Marcus Katie L. , Williams Erin P. , Boss Renee D.
Published: January 2017

We describe three cases of newborns with complex CHD characterised by communication challenges. These communication challenges were categorised as patient, family, or system-related red flags. Strategies for addressing these red flags were proposed, for the goal of optimising care and improving quality of life in this vulnerable population.
Cardiac strain findings in children with latent rheumatic heart disease detected by echocardiographic screening
Authors: Beaton Andrea , Richards Hedda , Ploutz Michelle , Gaur Lasya , Aliku Twalib , Lwabi Peter , Ensing Greg , Sable Craig
Published: January 2017

Background

Identification of patients with latent rheumatic heart disease by echocardiography presents a unique opportunity to prevent disease progression. Myocardial strain is a more sensitive indicator of cardiac performance than traditional measures of systolic function.

Objective

The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that abnormalities in myocardial strain may be present in children with latent rheumatic heart disease.

Methods

Standard echocardiography images with electrocardiogram gating were obtained from Ugandan children found to have latent rheumatic heart disease as well as control subjects. Traditional echocardiography measures of systolic function were obtained, and offline global longitudinal strain analysis was performed. Comparison between groups was performed using strain as a continuous (Mann–Whitney U-test) and categorical (cut-off 5th percentile for age) variable.

Results

Our study included 14 subjects with definite rheumatic heart disease, 13 with borderline rheumatic heart disease, and 112 control subjects. None of the subjects had abnormal left ventricular size or ejection fraction. Global longitudinal strain was lower than the 5th percentile in 44% of the subjects with any rheumatic heart disease (p=0.002 versus controls) and 57% of the subjects with definite rheumatic heart disease (p=0.03). The mean absolute strain values were significantly lower when comparing subjects with any rheumatic heart disease with controls (20.4±3.95 versus 22.4±4.35, p=0.025) and subjects with definite rheumatic heart disease with controls (19.9±4.25 versus 22.4±4.35, p=0.033).

Conclusion

Global longitudinal strain is decreased in subjects with rheumatic heart disease in the absence of abnormal systolic function. Larger studies with longer-term follow-up are required to determine whether there is a role for strain to help better understand the pathophysiology of latent rheumatic heart disease.
HOW DOES STOCK MARKET VOLATILITY REACT TO OIL PRICE SHOCKS?
Authors: Bastianin Andrea , Manera Matteo
Published: January 2017

We study the impact of oil price shocks on the U.S. stock market volatility. We jointly analyze three different structural oil market shocks (i.e., aggregate demand, oil supply, and oil-specific demand shocks) and stock market volatility using a structural vector autoregressive model. Identification is achieved by assuming that the price of crude oil reacts to stock market volatility only with delay. This implies that innovations to the price of crude oil are not strictly exogenous, but predetermined with respect to the stock market. We show that volatility responds significantly to oil price shocks caused by unexpected changes in aggregate and oil-specific demand, whereas the impact of supply-side shocks is negligible.
CURRENT MACROECONOMIC CHALLENGES
Authors: Di Bartolomeo Giovanni , Saltari Enrico
Published: January 2017

The events driven by the financial crisis have highlighted limits and drawbacks of current paradigms. Economists began to rethink the role and impacts of financial factors and standard policies. At the same time, a more general sentiment of revision has challenged several consolidated “dogmas.” Accordingly, this special issue of Macroeconomic Dynamics aims to refresh the debate on some important macroeconomic topics from new and fresh perspectives. A number of questions relating to the challenges faced by macroeconomic theory and policies are raised. The issue, first, discusses some topics that stemmed from the financial factors, such as overleveraging, forward guidance, bank regulation; it then explores other “waters” related to price-setting behavior, productivity, and growth.
Modality effects in language switching: Evidence for a bimodal advantage
Authors: KAUFMANN EMILY , MITTELBERG IRENE , KOCH IRING , PHILIPP ANDREA M.
Published: January 2017

In language switching, it is assumed that in order to produce a response in one language, the other language must be inhibited. In unimodal (spoken-spoken) language switching, the fact that the languages share the same primary output channel (the mouth) means that only one language can be produced at a time. In bimodal (spoken-signed) language switching, however, it is possible to produce both languages simultaneously. In our study, we examined modality effects in language switching using multilingual subjects (speaking German, English, and German Sign Language). Focusing on German vocal responses, since they are directly compatible across conditions, we found shorter reaction times, lower error rates, and smaller switch costs in bimodal vs. unimodal switching. This result suggests that there are different inhibitory mechanisms at work in unimodal and bimodal language switching. We propose that lexical inhibition is involved in unimodal switching, whereas output channel inhibition is involved in bimodal switching.