bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Young children communicate their ignorance and ask questions
Authors: Harris Paul L. , Bartz Deborah T. , Rowe Meredith L.
Published: August 2017

Children acquire information, especially about the culture in which they are being raised, by listening to other people. Recent evidence has shown that young children are selective learners who preferentially accept information, especially from informants who are likely to be representative of the surrounding culture. However, the extent to which children understand this process of information transmission and actively exploit it to fill gaps in their knowledge has not been systematically investigated. We review evidence that toddlers exhibit various expressive behaviors when faced with knowledge gaps. They look toward an available adult, convey ignorance via nonverbal gestures (flips/shrugs), and increasingly produce verbal acknowledgments of ignorance (“I don’t know”). They also produce comments and questions about what their interlocutors might know and adopt an interrogative stance toward them. Thus, in the second and third years, children actively seek information from interlocutors via nonverbal gestures or verbal questions and display a heightened tendency to encode and retain such sought-after information.
Arc restores juvenile plasticity in adult mouse visual cortex
Authors: Jenks Kyle R. , Kim Taekeun , Pastuzyn Elissa D. , Okuno Hiroyuki , Taibi Andrew V. , Bito Haruhiko , Bear Mark F. , Shepherd Jason D.
Published: August 2017

Significance

Neuronal plasticity peaks early in life during critical periods and normally declines with age, but the molecular changes that underlie this decline are not fully understood. Using the mouse visual cortex as a model, we found that activity-dependent expression of the neuronal protein Arc peaks early in life, and that loss of activity-dependent Arc expression parallels loss of synaptic plasticity in the visual cortex. Genetic overexpression of Arc prolongs the critical period of visual cortex plasticity, and acute viral expression of Arc in adult mice can restore juvenile-like plasticity. These findings provide a mechanism for the loss of excitatory plasticity with age, and suggest that Arc may be an exciting therapeutic target for modulation of the malleability of neuronal circuits.
Beyond icosahedral symmetry in packings of proteins in spherical shells
Authors: Mosayebi Majid , Shoemark Deborah K. , Fletcher Jordan M. , Sessions Richard B. , Linden Noah , Woolfson Derek N. , Liverpool Tanniemola B.
Published: August 2017

Significance

The design and construction of man-made structures at microscopic scales are one of the key goals of modern nanotechnology. With nature as inspiration, synthetic biological building blocks have recently been designed that self-assemble into quasi-spherical shells or cages. Whereas many natural protein building blocks self-assemble into highly symmetric ordered shells (e.g., viruses), our study shows that surprisingly even a small amount of (unavoidable) flexibility in the synthetic building blocks leads to stable disordered configurations. Our work provides a new design paradigm: Modulating the flexibilities of the components, one can control the regularity of the packing and, consequently, the surface properties of a synthetic cage.
Adiponectin protects against development of metabolic disturbances in a PCOS mouse model
Authors: Benrick Anna , Chanclón Belén , Micallef Peter , Wu Yanling , Hadi Laila , Shelton John M. , Stener-Victorin Elisabet , Wernstedt Asterholm Ingrid
Published: August 2017

Significance

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have reduced fertility and increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Adiponectin, an adipocyte-derived hormone, together with adipocyte size, is the strongest factor associated with insulin resistance in PCOS. The potential causal relationship among adiponectin levels, infertility, and metabolic dysfunction in PCOS is, however, unknown. Exploiting mouse models, we found that adiponectin is indeed involved in PCOS-related insulin resistance, and, albeit to a much smaller extent, is also involved in the development of reproductive dysfunction. Thus, increased levels of adiponectin can prevent prepubertal androgen-induced metabolic dysfunction in dihydrotestosterone-exposed mice with PCOS-like traits. Collectively, our findings support the notion that altered adipose tissue functionality is a key mediator of metabolic dysfunction in women with PCOS.
Subacute Toxicity Effects of Deltamethrin on Oxidative Stress Markers in Rainbow Trout
Authors: Elia Antonia Concetta , Giorda Federica , Pacini Nicole , Dörr Ambrosius Josef Martin , Scanzio Tommaso , Prearo Marino
Published: August 2017

Deltamethrin is a pyrethroid insecticide that is considered extremely toxic to aquatic organisms. We evaluated the effect of subacute doses (0.033, 0.1, or 0.3 mg/kg) of deltamethrin on micronucleus frequency and oxidative stress markers in Rainbow Trout Oncorhynchus mykiss at 1, 2, 3, 4, and 8 d after intracoelomic injection. No genotoxic damage was recorded, as no specimen showed a micronucleus number above the physiological range. Deltamethrin exposure elicited a transient reduction in the levels of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione S-transferase and a persistent decrease in glutathione reductase activity. Overall, the lower antioxidant enzyme activity in the deltamethrin-treated fish was mainly dose-dependent.

Received May 27, 2016 accepted June 18, 2017 Published online August 9, 2017
Redistributing load using wearable resistance during power clean training improves athletic performance
Authors: Marriner Caleb R. , Cronin John B. , Macadam Paul , Storey Adam
Published: August 2017

A popular method to improve athletic performance and lower body power is to train with wearable resistance (WR), for example, weighted vests. However, it is currently unknown what training effect this loading method has on full‐body explosive movements such as the power clean. The purpose of this study was to determine what effects WR equivalent to 12% body mass (BM) had on the power clean and countermovement jump (CMJ) performance. Sixteen male subjects (age: 23.2 ± 2.7 years; BM: 90.5 ± 10.3 kg) were randomly assigned to five weeks of traditional (TR) power clean training or training with 12% BM redistributed from the bar to the body using WR. Variables of interest included pre and post CMJ height, power clean one repetition maximum (1RM), peak ground reaction force, power output (PO), and several bar path kinematic variables across loads at 50%, 70%, and 90% of 1RM. The main findings were that WR training: (1) increased CMJ height (8.7%; ES = 0.53) and 1RM power clean (4.2%; ES = 0.2) as compared to the TR group (CMJ height = −1.4%; 1RM power clean = 1.8%); (2) increased PO across all 1RM loads (ES = 0.33–0.62); (3) increased barbell velocity at 90% 1RM (3.5%; ES = 0.74) as compared to the TR group (−4.3%); and (4) several bar path kinematic variables improved at 70% and 90% 1RM loads. WR power clean training with 12% BM can positively influence power clean ability and CMJ performance, as well as improve technique factors.
Current Concepts in the Treatment of Renovascular Hypertension
Authors: Herrmann Sandra M , Textor Stephen C
Published: August 2017

Renovascular disease (RVD) remains a major cause of secondary and treatment-resistant hypertension. Most cases are related either to fibromuscular or atherosclerotic lesions, but a variety of other causes including arterial dissection, stent occlusion, and embolic disease can produce the same syndrome. Recent studies emphasize the kidney’s tolerance to moderate flow reduction during antihypertensive drug therapy and the relative safety of medical therapy to control blood pressure. Several prospective trials in moderate RVD fail to identify major benefits from endovascular revascularization for moderate atherosclerotic disease. However, high-risk and progressive renovascular syndromes are recognized to be relatively refractory to medical therapy only and respond better to combining renal revascularization with ongoing medical therapy. Clinicians caring for complex hypertension should be familiar with pathogenic pathways, imaging techniques, and a rational approach to managing renovascular hypertension in the current era.
Psychosocial Pathways to Racial/Ethnic Inequalities in Late-Life Memory Trajectories
Authors: Zahodne Laura B , Sol Ketlyne , Kraal Zarina
Published: August 2017

Objectives

Blacks and Hispanics are at increased risk for dementia, even after socioeconomic and vascular factors are taken into account. This study tests a comprehensive model of psychosocial pathways leading to differences in longitudinal cognitive outcomes among older blacks and Hispanics, compared to non-Hispanic whites.

Methods

Using data from 10,173 participants aged 65 and older in the Health and Retirement Study, structural equation models tested associations among race/ethnicity, perceived discrimination, depressive symptoms, external locus of control, and 6-year memory trajectories, controlling for age, sex, educational attainment, income, wealth, and chronic diseases.

Results

Greater perceived discrimination among blacks was associated with lower initial memory level via depressive symptoms and external locus of control, and with faster memory decline directly. Greater depressive symptoms and external locus of control among Hispanics were each independently associated with lower initial memory, but there were no pathways from Hispanic ethnicity to memory decline.

Discussion

Depression and external locus of control partially mediate racial/ethnic differences in memory trajectories. Perceived discrimination is a major driver of these psychosocial pathways for blacks, but not Hispanics. These results can inform the development of policies and interventions to reduce cognitive morbidity among racially/ethnically diverse older adults.
Cluster: A New Application for Spatial Analysis of Pixelated Data for Epiphytotics
Authors: Nelson Scot C. , Corcoja Iulian , Pethybridge Sarah J.
Published: August 2017

Spatial analysis of epiphytotics is essential to develop and test hypotheses about pathogen ecology, disease dynamics, and to optimize plant disease management strategies. Data collection for spatial analysis requires substantial investment in time to depict patterns in various frames and hierarchies. We developed a new approach for spatial analysis of pixelated data in digital imagery and incorporated the method in a stand-alone desktop application called Cluster. The user isolates target entities (clusters) by designating up to 24 pixel colors as nontargets and moves a threshold slider to visualize the targets. The app calculates the percent area occupied by targeted pixels, identifies the centroids of targeted clusters, and computes the relative compass angle of orientation for each cluster. Users can deselect anomalous clusters manually and/or automatically by specifying a size threshold value to exclude smaller targets from the analysis. Up to 1,000 stochastic simulations randomly place the centroids of each cluster in ranked order of size (largest to smallest) within each matrix while preserving their calculated angles of orientation for the long axes. A two-tailed probability t test compares the mean inter-cluster distances for the observed versus the values derived from randomly simulated maps. This is the basis for statistical testing of the null hypothesis that the clusters are randomly distributed within the frame of interest. These frames can assume any shape, from natural (e.g., leaf) to arbitrary (e.g., a rectangular or polygonal field). Cluster summarizes normalized attributes of clusters, including pixel number, axis length, axis width, compass orientation, and the length/width ratio, available to the user as a downloadable spreadsheet. Each simulated map may be saved as an image and inspected. Provided examples demonstrate the utility of Cluster to analyze patterns at various spatial scales in plant pathology and ecology and highlight the limitations, trade-offs, and considerations for the sensitivities of variables and the biological interpretations of results. The Cluster app is available as a free download for Apple computers at iTunes, with a link to a user guide website.
A Neural Mechanism for the Opportunity Cost of Time
Authors: Constantino Sara M. , Dalrymple Jessica , Gilbert Rebecca W. , Varanese Sara , Di Rocco Alessandro , Daw Nathaniel D.
Published: August 2017

Recent interest has focused on a class of decision problems in which subjects encounter options serially and must decide when to leave an option in search of a better one, rather than directly comparing simultaneously presented options. Although such problems have a rich history in animal foraging and economics, relatively little is known about their neural substrates. Suggestively, however, a separate literature has argued that the key decision variable in these tasks – the opportunity cost of time, given by the average reward rate – may also govern behavioral vigor and may be reported by tonic dopamine (DA).

In this study, we test whether this putative dopaminergic opportunity cost signal plays an analogous role in serial decisions by examining the behavior of patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD), on and off their DA replacement medication, in a patch-foraging task. In these tasks, subjects’ decisions about when to leave a depleting resource implicitly reflect their beliefs about the opportunity cost of time spent harvesting that resource. Consistent with the opportunity cost hypothesis, umedicated patients harvested longer than matched controls, and medication remediated this deficit. These effects were not explained by motor perseveration. Our results suggest a functional role for DA, and an associated cognitive deficit in PD, in a type of decision process that may be distinct from (but related to) the neuromodulator’s well studied roles in behavioral invigoration and learning from rewards.

Significance Statement

This study addresses two important questions whose answers are, unexpectedly, linked. First, what is the scope of cognitive functions of the neuromodulator dopamine, whose contributions – for instance, as assessed by both the motoric and more subtle cognitive deficits of patients with PD, which depletes dopamine – range from movement to reward and decision-making? Second, what are the neural mechanisms supporting an important but understudied class of problems, in which, rather than choose among a set of alternatives (like apples and oranges), one makes serial decisions about whether to stick with an option (like a job, or a mate) or seek another? We demonstrate a novel cognitive deficit in PD that integrates this function into the web of DA’s contributions.
Global and local excitation and inhibition shape the dynamics of the cortico-striatal-thalamo-cortical pathway
Authors: Radulescu Anca R , Herron Joanna , Kennedy Caitlin , Scimemi Annalisa
Published: August 2017

The cortico-striatal-thalamo-cortical (CSTC) pathway is a brain circuit that controls movement execution, habit formation and reward. Hyperactivity in the CSTC pathway is involved in obsessive compulsive disorder, a neuropsychiatric disorder characterized by the execution of repetitive involuntary movements. The striatum shapes the activity of the CSTC pathway through the coordinated activation of two classes of medium spiny neurons (MSNs) expressing D1 or D2 dopamine receptors. The exact mechanisms by which balanced excitation/inhibition of these cells controls the network dynamics of the CSTC pathway remain unclear. Here we use non-linear modeling of neuronal activity and bifurcation theory to investigate how global and local changes in excitation/inhibition of MSNs regulate the activity of the CSTC pathway. Our findings indicate that a global and proportionate increase in excitation/inhibition pushes the system to states of generalized hyper-activity throughout the entire CSTC pathway. Certain disproportionate changes in global excitation/inhibition trigger network oscillations. Local changes in the excitation/inhibition of MSNs generate specific oscillatory behaviors in MSNs and in the CSTC pathway. These findings indicate that subtle changes in the relative strength of excitation/inhibition of MSNs can powerfully control the network dynamics of the CSTC pathway in ways that are not easily predicted by its synaptic connections.
GrigoraSNPs: Optimized HTS DNA Forensic SNP Analysis
Authors: Ricke Darrell O. , Shcherbina Anna , Michaleas Adam , Fremont-Smith Philip
Published: August 2017

High throughput DNA sequencing technologies enable improved characterization of forensic DNA samples enabling greater insights into DNA contributor(s). Current DNA forensics techniques rely upon allele sizing of short tandem repeats by capillary electrophoresis. High throughput sequencing enables forensic sample characterizations for large numbers of single nucleotide polymorphism loci. The slowest computational component of the DNA forensics analysis pipeline is the characterization of raw sequence data. This paper optimizes the SNP calling module of the DNA analysis pipeline with runtime results that scale linearly with the number of HTS sequences (patent pending)[1]. GrigoraSNPs can analyze 100 million reads in less than 5 minutes using 3 threads on a 4.0 GHz Intel i7-6700K laptop CPU.
Production of green concrete using recycled waste aggregate and byproducts
Authors: Al-Gahtani Khalid , Alsulaihi Ibrahim , Ali Mohamed , Marzouk Mohamed
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to highlight the sustainability benefits of using demolition and industrial wastes as a replacement for aggregates and cement in traditional concrete mixes.

Design/methodology/approach

Crushed concrete from demolition sites served as a replacement for fine and coarse aggregate in some of the mixes at various ratios. In addition, ground granulated blast furnace slag, metakaolin, silica fume, and fly ash each served as a cement replacement for cement content in the mixes tested in this research at various rates. Compression strength tests, permeability, and thermal expansion tests were performed on various mixes to compare their performance to that of traditional mixes with natural aggregate, and with no cement replacement.

Findings

The compressive strength results indicated the suitability of using such demolition wastes as replacements in producing green concrete (GC) without hindering its mechanical characteristics significantly. In addition, the results indicated an enhancement in the mechanical characteristics of GC when replacing cement with pozzolanic industrial wastes and byproducts.

Originality/value

The research assesses the utilization of sustainable GC using recycled waste aggregate and byproducts.
A framework for adopting green leasing in developing countries: the case of Sri Lanka
Authors: Hettige Nayani , Perera B.A.K.S. , Mallawaarachchi Harshini
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the enablers and barriers to the adoption of green leasing in Sri Lanka and propose probable solutions.

Design/methodology/approach

As an in-depth investigation was required, the case study method with a qualitative approach was selected as the research methodology. A documentary review and semi-structured interviews on three selected green buildings were conducted to study their leasing processes. QSR NVivo statistical analysis software was used for the content analysis.

Findings

Enablers and barriers to the adoption of green leasing under different categories such as those related to processes, institutions and government and also to legal, economic and social factors were determined along with probable solutions identified through a comprehensive framework that was developed.

Practical implications

The findings can be used as a basis to evaluate the current leasing processes that have adopted this emerging and important approach toward the sustainable operation and management of green buildings.

Originality/value

The little attention paid to this latest concept makes it important to evaluate the adoptability of green leasing in developing countries. Hence, the determination of key enablers, barriers and solutions was the focal point of this research.
The significance and performance of US commercial property in a post-GFC context
Authors: Marzuki Muhammad Jufri , Newell Graeme
Published: August 2017

Purpose

US commercial property is an important investment opportunity for institutional investors. The purpose of this paper is to assess the significance, risk-adjusted performance and portfolio diversification benefits of US commercial property (both direct property and REITs) in a mixed-asset portfolio over 1994-2016. The 2009-2016 post-GFC recovery of US commercial property is specifically highlighted.

Design/methodology/approach

Using quarterly total returns, the risk-adjusted performance and portfolio diversification benefits of US commercial property over 1994-2016 are assessed. Efficient frontier and asset allocation diagrams are used to assess the role of US commercial property in a mixed-asset portfolio. Sub-period analysis over 2009-2016 is used to assess the post-GFC recovery of US commercial property.

Findings

US commercial property delivered mixed results over 1994-2016; direct property gave the best risk-adjusted performance, while US-REITs performance was hampered by high volatility. Since the GFC, both forms of US commercial property have delivered stronger risk-adjusted returns with improved diversification benefits, especially in the context of an inter-property investment strategy. However, US-REITs did not improve their diversification benefits with the stock market over this period. This sees US commercial property as an important component in the US mixed-asset portfolio in the post-GFC environment, with a much stronger role exhibited by US direct property in the post-GFC mixed-asset portfolio.

Practical implications

US commercial property emerged from the GFC as a stronger and more robust property investment opportunity, with both the direct property and US-REITs fully recovered to their pre-GFC performance level in 2012. The results highlight the major role of US commercial property in a US mixed-asset portfolio in the post-GFC context. The superior risk-adjusted performance of US commercial property sees both direct and listed US commercial property contributing significantly to the mixed-asset portfolio throughout the entire risk-return spectrum, particularly direct property. Given the increased capital flows into the US property market since the GFC, this is particularly important as many investors, both local and international, use direct and listed property investment opportunities as conduits for their significant US commercial property exposure.

Originality/value

This paper is the first published empirical research analysis that specifically assessed the post-GFC performance and role of US commercial property in a mixed-asset portfolio. This research enables empirically validated, more informed and practical property investment decision making by institutional investors regarding the strategic role of US commercial property in a mixed-asset portfolio in a post-GFC context.
Attenuation of the effects of desertification through sustainable development of Great Green Wall in the Sahel of Africa
Authors: Gadzama Njidda Mamadu
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop the Great Green Wall (GGW) Project initially financed by the United Nation’s Global Environment Facility Trust Fund, is a Pan African proposal in greening the Sahel of Africa from West (Dakar) to the East (Djibouti). It aims at reducing poverty and soil degradation in this region, taking into account the effects of desertification and climate change on sustainability of livelihoods.

Design/methodology/approach

Several desertification attenuation projects in Nigeria are employing different methods for maximum benefits obtainable from the objectives of the particular projects. As noted above, however, the approach of GGW is to improve the alternative livelihoods of the people by their active participating in the implementation of the project. It is also noted that environmental impact assessment, community reconnaissance or needs assessments might be initial part of pre-project activities, thereby making the communities more aware and educated of the impending environmental problems.

Findings

Desertification has reached an alarming state in Nigeria. The frontline desert threatened States of Nigeria constitute 43 percent of the land mass of the country. With increased pressure of desertification, exacerbated by a period of prolonged drought of more than 20 years, climate change and human activities, it is becoming increasingly difficult to obtain sustainability in the management of the fragile lands and the region’s ecosystem. Strategic interventions in combating the problem of desertification in Nigeria have attenuated some of the detrimental social, economic and environmental impacts on the affected communities. Programmes and projects have strengthened the resilience of the people, participating in sand dune stabilization, the Great Green Wall Sahara Sahel Initiative, including shelterbelt developments. Government has sustained inputs in environmentally friendly agriculture and also encouraged synergetic collaborative activities with international and national NGOs, international agencies and local institutions.

Originality/value

These results/activities give evidence of the increased public awareness of environmental degradation due to desertification and climate change in Nigeria; the realization in environmental stabilization needs with ready participation of the communities for improved livelihoods in environmental activities and arid agriculture as supported by the National Great Green Wall (NAGGW) program of the country; resulting in internalization of these projects supporting livelihoods for sustainability in the Sahel of Nigeria.
Soil organic matter availability and climate drive latitudinal patterns in bacterial diversity from tropical to cold temperate forests
Authors: Tian Jing , He Nianpeng , Hale Lauren , Niu Shuli , Yu Guirui , Liu Yuan , Blagodatskaya Evgenia , Kuzyakov Yakov , Gao Qun , Zhou Jizhong
Published: August 2017

Bacteria are one of the most abundant and diverse groups of micro‐organisms and mediate many critical terrestrial ecosystem processes. Despite the crucial ecological role of bacteria, our understanding of their large‐scale biogeography patterns across forests, and the processes that determine these patterns lags significantly behind that of macroorganisms.

Here, we evaluated the geographic distributions of bacterial diversity and their driving factors across nine latitudinal forests along a 3,700‐km north–south transect in eastern China, using high‐throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing.

Four of 32 phyla detected were dominant: Acidobacteria, Actinobacteria, Alphaproteobacteria and Chloroflexi (relative abundance > 5%). Significant increases in bacterial richness and phylogenetic diversity were observed for temperate forests compared with subtropical or tropical forests. The soil organic matter (SOM) mineralisation rate (SOMmin, an index of SOM availability) explained the largest significant variations in bacterial richness. Variation partition analysis revealed that the bacterial community structure was closely correlated with environmental variables and geographic distance, which together explained 80.5% of community variation. Among all environmental factors, climatic features (MAT and MAP) were the best predictors of the bacterial community structure, whereas soil pH and SOMmin emerged as the most important edaphic drivers of the bacterial community structure. Plant functional traits (community weighted means of litter N content) and diversity resulted in weak but significant correlations with the bacterial community structure.

Our findings provide new evidence of bacterial biogeography patterns from tropical to cold temperate forests. Additionally, the results indicated a close linkage among soil bacterial diversity, climate and SOM decomposition, which is critical for predicting continental‐scale responses under future climate change scenarios and promoting sustainable forest ecosystem services.

A plain language summary is available for this article.
Militarized Capitalism? The Apparel Industry's Role in Scripting a Post‐War National Identity in Sri Lanka
Authors: Ruwanpura Kanchana N.
Published: August 2017

This paper examines new garment factories in the former war zone of North and East Sri Lanka. This paper elucidates the role of the state–military–capital nexus in the Sri Lankan government's efforts to rebuild the nation following a longstanding ethnic war, a post‐war development strategy that has emphasized investment and job creation. Drawing on fieldwork with numerous managers and more in‐depth exploration in one such garment factory, the paper shows how garment industry managers deployed a Sinhala‐Buddhist management ethos to produce an unmarked class of modern workers and, in doing so, played an active role in re‐scripting narratives of the nation. Therefore, we argue that capital is imbricated in the government's militarized nation‐building efforts, and we call for more attention to how the industrial capital–military–state nexus may be shaping and re‐producing power relations in the North and East of Sri Lanka.
The role of sleep in the relation between young children's mobile media use and effortful control
Authors: Nathanson Amy I. , Beyens Ine
Published: August 2017

We explored the relations among young children's mobile media use, sleep, and a form of self‐regulation, temperamental effortful control (EC), among a national sample of 402 mothers who completed an online survey. We found that the relation between mobile media use and EC was moderated by children's sleep time. Tablet use was negatively related to EC only among children who slept less at night (40% of our sample). However, hand‐held game player use was positively related to EC among children who slept longer at night (60% of our sample). In addition, sleep quality was a mediator in the relation between evening tablet use and EC. Evening use related to later bedtimes, more bedtime resistance, and worse sleep duration, and these indicators of poor sleep quality, in turn, predicted weaker EC.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

Young children are spending increasing amounts of time with mobile media, such as tablets and hand‐held game players.

Media exposure is related to children's self‐regulation.

Media exposure is related to children's sleep quality.

What does this study adds?

Number of sleep hours moderates the relation between mobile media use and EC among young children.

Tablet time is negatively related to EC among young children who get fewer sleep hours.

Hand‐held game playing is positively related to EC among young children who get greater sleep hours.

Sleep quality mediates the relation between evening tablet time and EC among young children.
Early psychosis workforce development: Core competencies for mental health professionals working in the early psychosis field
Authors: Osman Helen , Jorm Anthony F. , Killackey Eoin , Francey Shona , Mulcahy Dianne
Published: August 2017

Aim

The aim of this study was to identify the core competencies required of mental health professionals working in the early psychosis field, which could function as an evidence‐based tool to support the early psychosis workforce and in turn assist early psychosis service implementation and strengthen early psychosis model fidelity.

Method

The Delphi method was used to establish expert consensus on the core competencies. In the first stage, a systematic literature search was conducted to generate competency items. In the second stage, a panel consisting of expert early psychosis clinicians from around the world was formed. Panel members then rated each of the competency items on how essential they are to the clinical practice of all early psychosis clinicians.

Results

In total, 1023 pieces of literature including textbooks, journal articles and grey literature were reviewed. A final 542 competency items were identified for inclusion in the questionnaire. A total of 63 early psychosis experts participated in 3 rating rounds. Of the 542 competency items, 242 were endorsed as the required core competencies. There were 29 competency items that were endorsed by 62 or more experts, and these may be considered the foundational competencies for early psychosis practice.

Conclusion

The study generated a set of core competencies that provide a common language for early psychosis clinicians across professional disciplines and country of practice, and potentially are a useful professional resource to support early psychosis workforce development and service reform.
The role of a family history of psychosis for youth at clinical high risk of psychosis
Authors: Georgopoulos Grace , Stowkowy Jacqueline , Liu Lu , Cadenhead Kristin S. , Cannon Tyrone D. , Cornblatt Barbara A. , McGlashan Thomas H. , Perkins Diana O. , Seidman Larry J. , Tsuang Ming T. , Walker Elaine F. , Woods Scott W. , Bearden Carrie E. , Mathalon Daniel H. , Addington Jean
Published: August 2017

Aim

On average, there is a 10% to 12% likelihood of developing a psychotic disorder solely based on being at familial high risk. However, the introduction of the criteria for clinical high risk (CHR) of psychosis suggested for CHR individuals, 20% to 30% will go on to develop a full‐blown psychotic illness within 3 years. Several studies suggest a role for family history in conversion to psychosis among those at CHR. However, we know very little about those who meet the CHR criteria and have a positive family history for psychosis compared to those at CHR with no known family history. The aim of this study was to compare these 2 groups on demographics, clinical symptoms, social and role functioning, IQ, environmental factors and conversion to psychosis.

Method

A total of 762 participants met criteria for being at CHR, 119 of whom had a family history (CHR + FH) and 643 without (CHR‐FH). Groups were compared on attenuated symptoms, role and social functioning, IQ, past trauma, perceived discrimination and cannabis use. Survival analysis was used to compare groups on conversion rates.

Results

There were no major differences between the groups in symptoms, functioning, IQ, cannabis use or in the rate of conversion between the groups. The CHR + FH group reported increased amounts of early trauma.

Conclusion

There is a possibility that CHR + FH individuals believe that it is more difficult for them to cope with circumstances such as abuse or potential abuse. Future research on this subject should investigate family environment and its role in conversion to psychosis among CHR + FH individuals.
European Dermatology Forum S1‐guideline on the diagnosis and treatment of sclerosing diseases of the skin, Part 1: localized scleroderma, systemic sclerosis and overlap syndromes
Authors: Knobler R. , Moinzadeh P. , Hunzelmann N. , Kreuter A. , Cozzio A. , Mouthon L. , Cutolo M. , Rongioletti F. , Denton C.P. , Rudnicka L. , Frasin L.A. , Smith V. , Gabrielli A. , Aberer E. , Bagot M. , Bali G. , Bouaziz J. , Braae Olesen A. , Foeldvari I. , Frances C. , Jalili A. , Just U. , Kähäri V. , Kárpáti S. , Kofoed K. , Krasowska D. , Olszewska M. , Orteu C. , Panelius J. , Parodi A. , Petit A. , Quaglino P. , Ranki A. , Sanchez Schmidt J.M. , Seneschal J. , Skrok A. , Sticherling M. , Sunderkötter C. , Taieb A. , Tanew A. , Wolf P. , Worm M. , Wutte N.J. , Krieg T.
Published: August 2017

The term ‘sclerosing diseases of the skin' comprises specific dermatological entities, which have fibrotic changes of the skin in common. These diseases mostly manifest in different clinical subtypes according to cutaneous and extracutaneous involvement and can sometimes be difficult to distinguish from each other. The present guideline focuses on characteristic clinical and histopathological features, diagnostic scores and the serum autoantibodies most useful for differential diagnosis. In addition, current strategies in the first‐ and advanced‐line therapy of sclerosing skin diseases are addressed in detail. Part 1 of this guideline provides clinicians with an overview of the diagnosis and treatment of localized scleroderma (morphea), and systemic sclerosis including overlap syndromes of systemic sclerosis with diseases of the rheumatological spectrum.
Systematic review of peer education intervention programmes among individuals with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Gatlin Tricia K , Serafica Reimund , Johnson Michael
Published: August 2017

Aims and objectives

To systematically review published randomised controlled trials of peer education interventions among adults with type 2 diabetes.

Background

Systematic reviews have shown mixed results for peer support interventions to improve diabetes self‐management. Given the effectiveness of diabetes education by healthcare professionals, peer education interventions may be a useful alternative approach. This review addressed that gap.

Design

Systematic review.

Method

A systematic search of published randomised controlled trials between 2006–2016 was conducted using the keywords diabetes, type 2 diabetes, randomised controlled trials, self‐management, peer education and peer support. The methodological quality of each study was assessed using the Jadad scale.

Results

Seven studies were included in the final review, and the Jadad scores ranged from 8–10 of a possible 13 points. There was no consistent design, setting, or outcome measurement among the studies. There were two types of peer education interventions compared to traditional diabetes education: face‐to‐face or a combination of face‐to‐face and telephone/texting. The most common clinical outcome measure was HbA1c. Two of six studies showed statistically significant improvement in HbA1c between intervention and control groups. An increase in diabetes knowledge was also statistically significant in two of five studies.

Conclusion

Peer education could be successful in improving clinical outcomes. No evidence was found indicating that healthcare provider education was superior in regard to clinical knowledge or behavioural or psychological outcome measures than peer education. HbA1c was statistically significantly lower in some peer education groups compared to control groups.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

There is evidence that peer education can be useful in achieving positive clinical outcomes such as decreasing HbA1c levels and increasing diabetes knowledge. A certified diabetes educator or a trained healthcare professional should not be overlooked though when using peer educators.
Suitability of asthma education materials for school‐age children: Implications for health literacy
Authors: Tzeng Yu‐Fen , Gau Bih‐Shya
Published: August 2017

Aims and objectives

To investigate the suitability of asthma education materials for school‐age children with asthma and elucidate how these children used their health‐literacy abilities to identify whether the materials can be accepted, comprehended and applied.

Background

Effective asthma self‐management education is influenced by the suitability of materials and an individual's health literacy.

Design

A mixed‐method research design was developed using quantitative and qualitative surveys.

Methods

The suitability of the materials was assessed on the basis of the Chinese version of the Suitability Assessment of Materials by five experts. In addition, five school‐age children (age: 8–12 years) were recruited and interviewed.

Results

In total, 25 pieces of asthma education material for children were collected. On the basis of their type, the materials were categorised as nine brochures, 11 leaflets and five videos. Of the 25 materials, 17 were rated as superior materials, whereas eight were rated as adequate materials. The suitability scores of the video‐based materials were significantly higher than those of the brochures and leaflets (p = .006). One print material was considered to have a reading level suitable for fifth‐grade or younger children, whereas the remaining materials were considered suitable for sixth‐grade or older children. The following six health‐literacy domains were identified: recognising asthma through body knowledge, posing reflective questions, identifying self‐care difficulties, receiving adult guidance, learning with enjoyment and addressing learning requirements.

Conclusions

The video‐based materials had integrated content and were appealing to children. Cartoon animations, interactive computer games, and skill demonstrations may enhance learning stimulation and motivation and increase learning effects in children.

Relevance to clinical practice

The present results may help healthcare providers to understand children's capacities to manage their disease, effectively address children's requirements and function as a key resource for children to strengthen their literacy in asthma management.
Perceived social support and the sense of coherence in patient–caregiver dyad versus acceptance of illness in cancer patients
Authors: Pasek Małgorzata , Dębska Grażyna , Wojtyna Ewa
Published: August 2017

Background

Acceptance of illness is a significant determinant of further coping with a disease. Development of illness acceptance may be associated with the sense of coherence and perception of social support. Cancer is an example of a crisis situation, which affects both the patient and his/her close relatives. Consequently, acceptance of illness may be influenced by factors originating from both sides of caregiver–patient dyad. The aim of this study was to analyse direct and indirect interrelationships between perceived support and the sense of coherence in patient–caregiver dyad, and acceptance of illness in cancer patients.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

The study included 80 dyads composed of cancer patients and their caregivers. Only cancer patients undergoing oncological treatment at the time of the study, for at least 3 months but no longer than 12 months, were enrolled.

All subjects completed perceived support subscale included in the Berlin Social Support Scales, sense of coherence‐29 questionnaire to determine the sense of coherence and Acceptance of Illness Scale.

Results

Compared to cancer patients, their caregivers presented with significantly lower levels of perceived social support and weaker sense of coherence. The sense of coherence in caregivers and patients was determined by their perceived support levels. The sense of coherence in caregivers turned out to be a key resource influencing acceptance of illness in cancer patients, both directly and indirectly, via their perceived social support and their sense of coherence.

Conclusions

The sense of coherence, an intrinsic psychological factor determined by social support, is an important determinant of illness acceptance. Functioning of cancer patients is also modulated by psychosocial characteristics of their caregivers.

Relevance to clinical practice

Greater support offered to caregivers may substantially strengthen the sense of coherence in caregivers and cancer patients and, therefore, may improve the functioning of patient–caregiver dyad in a situation of neoplastic disease.
Nonpharmacological approaches for behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia in older adults: A systematic review of reviews
Authors: Legere Laura E , McNeill Susan , Schindel Martin Lori , Acorn Michelle , An Diana
Published: August 2017

Aims and objectives

To review the evidence on nonpharmacological approaches to care for behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia in older adults.

Background

Dementia is increasing in worldwide prevalence and can have severe and life‐altering impacts on older adults. Behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia can occur as a result of unmet needs and are distressing for family and caregivers. Many reviews have examined specific approaches to behaviours, but few have compared interventions for effectiveness and applicability across settings.

Design

Systematic review of reviews.

Methods

The search was limited to reviews that were published between October 2009–April/May 2015. Seven databases were searched, and reviews with a focus on nonpharmacological approaches to behaviours in older adults with dementia were included. All reviews were independently screened by two reviewers, quality appraised and data extracted. Results are reported through narrative synthesis.

Results

There were 18 international reviews that met inclusion criteria describing individual therapies, targeted interventions and organisational interventions. The organisational interventions of care planning using a consultation or dementia mapping process demonstrated modest benefits. The most conclusive evidence supported individual, sensory‐focused interventions such as music therapy, interventions targeting pain, person‐centred approaches and education for family caregivers.

Conclusions

Although there remains a paucity of high‐quality research in this area, the existing evidence indicates that behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia require a range of nonpharmacologic sensory‐focused approaches that are tailored to the individual. Further research is needed to determine the interventions best suited for specific behaviours and contexts, particularly inappropriate sexual behaviours.

Relevance to clinical practice

There is a need for nurses to be informed of best practices in order to effectively plan appropriate interventions to address behaviours in older adults with dementia. Care planning and tailored, sensory‐focused, nonpharmacologic approaches are safe and effective options for nurses to consider in practice.
Factors which influence concordance among measurements obtained by different pulse oximeters currently used in some clinical situations
Authors: de la Merced Díaz‐González Candelaria , de la Rosa‐Hormiga Milagros , Ramal‐López Josefa M. , González‐Henríquez Juan José , Marrero‐Morales María Sandra
Published: August 2017

Aims and objectives

To evaluate both concordance among those measurements obtained by three different pulse oximeters currently used by nursing professionals in hospital units and the factors which can influence this concordance.

Background

Many models of wireless pulse oximeters in the present market do not offer possibility of calibration and, therefore, they do not ensure patients′ safety in daily clinical practice.

Design

This is a descriptive and cross‐sectional study. The sample of patients (140) was selected from such hospital units, and all of them had to fulfil inclusion and exclusion criteria for participation.

Methods

The instruments used to carry out this research were a monitor (calibrated), two models of portable wireless pulse oximeters (used for 3 years by the nursing staff, without being calibrated), a tympanic thermometer and a weather meter. The concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) was used to establish the concordance, whereas the Landis‐Koch criteria were used to interpret the results.

Results

The concordance among the three devices was considered as “good” (CCC: 0.925 and 0.974 (95%)). The CCC (0.925) for saturation measures was regarded as “very good”/”almost perfect,” and the pulse measure was considered as “very good” CCC 0.974, providing in both cases a high level of concordance (CCC > 0.91).

Conclusions

The overall concordance as regards pulse and oxygen saturation among the three pulse oximeters analysed is considered as “very good” according to the Landis‐Koch criteria.

Relevance to clinical practice

There exists a “very good” concordance among two wireless oximeters which have been used by the health staff for 3 years and which did not offer any possibility of calibration and one monitor which belongs to the healthcare institution. This aspect is of crucial importance in daily clinical practice, and it is also relevant to ensure patient's safety.