bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insulin Resistance and Prognosis of Nondiabetic Patients With Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Jing Jing , Pan Yuesong , Zhao Xingquan , Zheng Huaguang , Jia Qian , Mi Donghua , Chen Weiqi , Li Hao , Liu Liping , Wang Chunxue , He Yan , Wang David , Wang Yilong , Wang Yongjun
Published: February 2017

Background and Purpose—

Insulin resistance was common in patients with stroke. This study investigated the association between insulin resistance and outcomes in nondiabetic patients with first-ever acute ischemic stroke.

Methods—

Patients with ischemic stroke without history of diabetes mellitus in the ACROSS-China registry (Abnormal Glucose Regulation in Patients With Acute Stroke Across China) were included. Insulin resistance was defined as a homeostatis model assessment–insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) index in the top quartile (Q4). HOMA-IR was calculated as fasting insulin (μU/mL)×fasting glucose (mmol/L)/22.5. Multivariable logistic regression or Cox regression was performed to estimate the association between HOMA-IR and 1-year prognosis (mortality, stroke recurrence, poor functional outcome [modified Rankin scale score 3–6], and dependence [modified Rankin scale score 3–5]).

Results—

Among the 1245 patients with acute ischemic stroke enrolled in this study, the median HOMA-IR was 1.9 (interquartile range, 1.1–3.1). Patients with insulin resistance were associated with a higher mortality risk than those without (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.68; 95% confidence interval, 1.12–2.53;
P
=0.01), stroke recurrence (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.57, 95% confidence interval, 1.12–2.19;
P
=0.008), and poor outcome (adjusted odds ratio, 1.42; 95% confidence interval, 1.03–1.95;
P
=0.03) but not dependence after adjustment for potential confounders. Higher HOMA-IR quartile categories were associated with a higher risk of 1-year death, stroke recurrence, and poor outcome (
P
for trend =0.005, 0.005, and 0.001, respectively).

Conclusions—

Insulin resistance was associated with an increased risk of death, stroke recurrence, and poor outcome but not dependence in nondiabetic patients with acute ischemic stroke.
Cerebral Arteriovenous Malformation Flow Is Associated With Venous Intimal Hyperplasia
Authors: Shakur Sophia F. , Hussein Ahmed E. , Amin-Hanjani Sepideh , Valyi-Nagy Tibor , Charbel Fady T. , Alaraj Ali
Published: February 2017

Background and Purpose—

The pathogenesis of venous intimal hyperplasia and venous outflow stenosis associated with cerebral arteriovenous malformation (AVM) draining veins is poorly understood. We sought to determine the relationship between maximum vein wall thickness and AVM flow.

Methods—

Patients who underwent AVM surgical resection and had flow measured before treatment using quantitative magnetic resonance angiography were retrospectively reviewed. Specimens were mounted on slides and stained with elastin special stain. Perinidal veins were identified, and maximum wall thickness was measured from digitized images. Relationship between maximum vein wall thickness and AVM flow was assessed.

Results—

Twenty-eight patients were included. Spearman correlation revealed a statistically significant relationship between maximum vein wall thickness and total AVM flow (ρ=+0.51;
P
=0.006), AVM flow per draining vein (ρ=+0.41;
P
=0.03), and mean intranidal vessel diameter (ρ=+0.39;
P
=0.04).

Conclusions—

Maximum vein wall thickness increases with higher total AVM flow and AVM flow per draining vein. This finding implicates chronically high AVM inflow in venous intimal hyperplasia.
Critical Illness–Associated Cerebral Microbleeds
Authors: Fanou Evgenia M. , Coutinho Jonathan M. , Shannon Patrick , Kiehl Tim-Rasmus , Levi Marcel M. , Wilcox M. Elizabeth , Aviv Richard I. , Mandell Daniel M.
Published: February 2017

Background and Purpose—

Cerebral microbleeds (petechial hemorrhages) are a well-known consequence of cerebral amyloid angiopathy and chronic hypertension among other causes. We report 12 patients with a clinically and radiologically distinct microbleed phenomenon in the cerebral white matter.

Methods—

These patients were assessed at the University Health Network (Toronto, Canada) between 2004 and 2014.

Results—

Median age was 40 years (range, 27–63 years), and 7 out of 12 patients were women. All patients had brain magnetic resonance imaging during or immediately after an intensive care unit admission. All patients had respiratory failure, 11 out of 12 received mechanical ventilation, and 3 out of 12 received extracorporeal life support. Magnetic resonance imaging in all 12 patients showed extensive microbleeds, diffusely involving the juxtacortical white matter and corpus callosum but sparing the cortex, deep and periventricular white matter, basal ganglia, and thalami. Several patients also had internal capsule or posterior fossa involvement.

Conclusions—

We have described a distinct microbleed phenomenon in the cerebral white matter of patients with critical illness. The specific cause of the microbleeds is unclear, but the pathogenesis may involve hypoxemia as the microbleeds are similar to those described with high-altitude exposure.
Music, Sexuality and Stagecraft in the Pseudo-Vergilian Copa
Authors: Morgan Harry
Published: March 2017

The Pseudo-VergilianCopa(‘The Female Tavern-Keeper’) opens with the eponymous character dancing ‘drunkenly’ and ‘sexily’ to the rhythms of the castanet. Her performance, which is accompanied by several other musical instruments, sets the scene for a brief, yet richly detailed, vignette describing the attractions of a rustic Roman tavern. This paper examines how the poet uses music to (re)construct theCopa’s sensory world. The dancing tavern-keeper is a complex literary creation, which incorporates influences from both the elegiac and pastoral traditions as well as from contemporary visual culture. Moreover, her characterisation as an erotic, exotic entertainer invites comparisons between the tavern, the dining-room and the theatre as interactive performance spaces. The alluring dancers and musicians who performed in these venues inspired a number of poetic depictions in the early imperial period, and the commonalities between these depictions can in turn shed valuable light on our poem and its elusive protagonist.
Comparative larval morphology in three species of Pleurodeles (Urodela: Salamandridae)
Authors: ESCORIZA DANIEL , HASSINE JIHÈNE BEN
Published: March 2017

The Ribbed newts (genus Pleurodeles) are endemic to the Iberian Peninsula and northwest Africa (Raffaëlli 2013), and comprise three species: Pleurodeles nebulosus (Guichenot 1850), Pleurodeles poireti (Gervais 1836) and Pleurodeles waltl Michahelles 1830. Pleurodeles nebulosus is found in northern Algeria and Tunisia with an average size of 18 cm, while P. poireti is endemic to the Edough Massif, in northeastern Algeria and is the smallest species, with 12.9 cm in total length (Escoriza et al. 2016; Carranza & Wade 2004). Pleurodeles waltl appears on the Iberian Peninsula and Morocco (García-París et al. 2004). The eastern and western populations of P. waltl although they are not differentiated taxonomically show high levels of genetic divergence (estimated to have occurred 2.0–3.2 Ma; Carranza & Arnold 2003). The individuals of P. waltl attain large sizes (30 cm of total length) and have 8−10 cutaneous glands on both sides (Pasteur 1958), which are absent in other species of the genus.
Does Contextual Change Affect Basic Human Values? A Dynamic Comparative Multilevel Analysis Across 32 European Countries
Authors: Tormos Raül , Vauclair Christin-Melanie , Dobewall Henrik
Published: February 2017

This article examines the relationship of stable contextual differences and contextual change with the endorsement of Schwartz’s (1992) two basic value dimensions—Openness-to-Change versus Conservation and Self-Enhancement versus Self-Transcendence. Using six waves of the European Social Survey, an extension of multilevel analysis is used which combines both a cross-national comparative and a dynamic analysis of values. The hierarchical data structure and the covariates for value endorsement are defined at three distinct levels: a first level for individuals (with sociodemographic variables, such as age and gender), a second level for country-waves (with time-varying covariates), and a third level for country (with time-invariant covariates). The main aim is to determine if changes in contextual covariates over time are related to value differences between countries over and above contextual time-invariant covariates. High national wealth and low income inequality predicted high Self-Transcendence values and low Conservation values. Low national unemployment rates were associated with less conservatism. When entered simultaneously into the model, only time-invariant differences in gross domestic product (GDP) remained to be a significant predictor of Schwartz’s two basic value dimensions. Finally, we found that an increase in income inequality over time has a certain incremental effect on the endorsement of Conservation over Openness-to-Change values. There were no associations for changes in national wealth and unemployment rates, suggesting that for value endorsement, time-varying contextual effects are less important overall than time-invariant contextual effects.
Transitioning Out of Foster Care
Authors: Rome Sunny Harris , Raskin Miriam
Published: February 2017

Youth aging out of foster care are at particular risk for negative outcomes including school dropout, homelessness, poverty, unemployment, substance abuse, health and mental health problems, and victimization. Yet we know little about how, when, and why these youth find themselves on a downward trajectory. This qualitative, phenomenological study—conducted in partnership with four public child welfare agencies—examined the lived experience of 19 youth during their first year after exiting foster care. The authors used monthly, contemporaneous interviews to explore domains including housing, employment, education, and relationships with trusted adults. Although outcomes in employment were poorest, participants’ experience in all domains was characterized by frequent changes and instability. Adverse events began immediately and many youth were unsure how to navigate the system to get help. Yet youth who were successful in one domain were more likely to be successful in others. Risk factors included having four or more foster care placements, being on probation, accumulating fines, and losing government assistance. Protective factors included living with an adult who shares the rent and maintains a positive, consistent presence; being a full-time student; receiving educational and housing subsidies; having reliable means of transportation and communication; and maintaining the same job throughout the transitional year. Despite facing significant obstacles, the youth demonstrated resilience and optimism as they contemplated their futures. Recommendations include providing specialized services that target youth as they exit the system, and emphasizing stability rather than self-sufficiency.
Plausible-Value Imputation Statistics for Detecting Item Misfit
Authors: Chalmers R. Philip , Ng Victoria
Published: February 2017

When tests consist of a small number of items, the use of latent trait estimates for secondary analyses is problematic. One area in particular where latent trait estimates have been problematic is when testing for item misfit. This article explores the use of plausible-value imputations to lessen the severity of the inherent measurement unreliability in shorter tests, and proposes a parametric bootstrap procedure to generate empirical sampling characteristics for null-hypothesis tests of item fit. Simulation results suggest that the proposed item-fit statistics provide conservative to nominal error detection rates. Power to detect item misfit tended to be less than Stone’s [Formula: see text] item-fit statistic but higher than the [Formula: see text] statistic proposed by Orlando and Thissen, especially in tests with 20 or more dichotomously scored items.
Nutrition Management of Home Parenteral Nutrition Among Patients With Enterocutaneous Fistula in the Sustain Registry
Authors: Compher Charlene , Winkler Marion F. , Guenter Peggi , Steiger Ezra
Published: February 2017

Background: Home parenteral nutrition (HPN) is a vital therapy for patients who have the diagnosis of enterocutaneous fistula (ECF), yet little is known about how these patients are managed. This research compares nutrition management of adults with ECF as the indication for HPN therapy to those with other indications. Methods: This is an analysis of data from adult HPN patients in the Sustain registry enrolled between August 2011 and February 2014 who have the diagnosis of ECF or other indication for HPN who served as the control group. Differences between the ECF and control group were assessed by t test, analysis of variance, or χ2 as appropriate. Results: There were 141 HPN patients with ECF and 632 control patients. Patients with ECF were older (55 vs 50 years, P < .001), more frequently had a goal for future surgery (30% vs 15%, P = .010), had greater prevalence of overweight/obesity (33% vs 20%, P = .04), and had a lower serum albumin (2.98 ± 0.65 g/dL vs 3.16 ± 0.66 g/dL, P = .006) than controls. The diet order was more frequently nil per os (NPO) in patients with ECF (48% vs 22%, P < .001), and amino acid content of HPN was greater (111.90 ± 29.11 vs 102.06 ± 27.84, P < .001) than in controls. There were no differences in patterns of weight change by ECF or control groups, although underweight patients gained, normal‐weight patients maintained, and overweight/obese patients lost weight and serum albumin increased similarly. Conclusions: The HPN management of patients with ECF is similar to other HPN patients other than greater provision of protein, more frequent NPO status, and a goal for future surgery.
Lipid Injectable Emulsions: Infusion Confusion
Authors: Ayers Phil , Boullata Joseph I. , Guenter Peggi , Holcombe Beverly
Published: February 2017

The commentary addresses discussion regarding the duration of infusion for lipid injectable emulsions (ILEs; previously known as intravenous fat emulsion) when administered separately from amino acids and dextrose (2:1) admixtures. The article by Mundi et al describes the administration time of ILEs administered separately as up to 24 hours, while previous American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition documents have outlined the infusion time not to exceed 12 hours.
Myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury: the role of adaptor proteins Crk
Authors: He Shangfei , Wang Xianbao , Chen Aihua
Published: February 2017

Recent studies have reported that the ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) myocardium may act as an immune system where an exaggerated inflammatory reaction initiates. With activation of the immune system, damage-associated molecular patterns migrate and adhere into the I/R region and, consequently, induce myocardial injury. Emerging data have indicated that the adaptor proteins Crk are thought to play essential roles in signaling during apoptosis and cell adhesion and migration. Accumulated data highlight that Crk proteins are potential immunotherapeutic targets in immune diseases. However, very few studies have determined the roles of Crk on myocardial I/R injury. This mini review will focus on the emerging roles of Crk adaptors during myocardial I/R injury.
Pulmonary hypertension and right heart failure due to severe hypernatremic dehydration
Authors: Chiwane Saurabh , Ahmed Tageldin M. , Bauerfeld Christian P. , Chauhan Monika
Published: February 2017

Introduction:

Neonates are at risk of developing hypernatremic dehydration and its associated complications, such as stroke, dural sinus thrombosis and renal vein thrombosis. Pulmonary hypertension has not been described as a complication of hypernatremia.

Case report:

We report a case of a seven-day-old neonate with severe hypernatremic dehydration who went on to develop pulmonary hypertension and right heart failure needing extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO).

Discussion:

Normal or high anion gap metabolic acidosis commonly accompanies hypernatremic dehydration. The presence of acidosis and/or hypoxia can delay the normal drop in pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) after birth, causing pulmonary hypertension and right ventricular failure.

Conclusion:

A high index of suspicion is paramount to diagnose pulmonary hypertension and aggressive correction of the acidosis and hypoxia is needed. In the presence of severe right ventricular failure, ECMO can be used as a bridge to recovery while underlying metabolic derangements are being corrected.
An interpretative phenomenological analysis of the lived musical experiences of three Williams syndrome individuals
Authors: Erasmus Ewie , van der Merwe Liesl
Published: February 2017

The purpose of this interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) is to understand the lived musical experiences of three individuals living with Williams syndrome (WS). We are interested in their lived musical experiences because the musical abilities of WS individuals are similar to those of normal control groups despite their severe cognitive impairments. Although there is literature on the medical manifestations of the syndrome, there is no research on their lived musical experiences. Their musical experiences need to be explored as a possible way to help them to cope with their unique challenges. In this IPA we used semi-structured interviews and the six steps of data analysis for IPA suggested by Smith et al. (2009). Four superordinate themes emerged from data analysis, namely, that: a) the participants have a passion for performance; b) music allows the participants to foster friendships; c) music allows them to cope with challenging situations; and d) they display musical dependency. The findings of this study can be used to advocate the importance of music in the everyday lives of individuals with WS.
Effects of music on task performance, engagement, and behavior: A literature review
Authors: Schwartz Rachel W. , Ayres Kevin M. , Douglas Karen H.
Published: February 2017

Currently, there is a growing body of empirical research regarding the role of background music in the education of individuals with disabilities. A systematic literature review identified 20 studies between 1970 and 2014 focusing on the role of contingent and noncontingent background music to facilitate task engagement, enhance performance, and alter behavior. Though the research addressing background music has mixed results, there is evidence suggesting that this could be an effective strategy for increasing task engagement and performance and decreasing stimulatory behavior for individuals with developmental disabilities. Since music can be considered inexpensive and may be less intrusive in comparison to other strategies, its use merits additional study to explore how and to what extent music affects behavior.
Music Performance Anxiety in adolescence and early adulthood: Its relation with the age of onset in musical training
Authors: Zarza-Alzugaray Francisco Javier , Orejudo Santos , Casanova Oscar , Aparicio-Moreno Lucía
Published: February 2017

Music Performance Anxiety (MPA) is one of the major emotional problems affecting music professionals and music students; it can only be addressed on a professional basis if a more profound knowledge of determining factors is acquired. This study examines one of these factors, scarcely investigated until now: the age at which an individual began music training. The relation of age of onset with MPA is examined here in two separate samples of music students/pupils in Spain: one of 437 advanced music students (mean age = 22.64 years) and another one consisting of 209 pupils enrolled in music schools (mean age = 12.09 years). The first sample was tested with the Spanish version of the Kenny Music Performance Anxiety Index (KMPAI), and the second sample was tested with the Performance Anxiety Questionnaire (PAQ) elaborated by Cox and Kenardy (1993). These two independent samples, tested with different evaluation tools, yield results that indicate a significant relation between the age of musical training onset and the individual’s currently perceived level of MPA. Those students/pupils who started at the age of 7 or younger report lower levels of MPA. The article concludes with a discussion of these results’ potential implications on a theoretical and practical level.
Minding the Body: An interdisciplinary theory of optimal posture for musicians
Authors: Shoebridge Ann , Shields Nora , Webster Kate E.
Published: February 2017

Posture influences music technique, and poor posture is associated with performance-related problems in musicians. Student musicians rely on music teachers, physiotherapists, and Alexander Technique teachers for advice about posture and performance-related problems. However, it is unknown whether these professional groups share a common understanding of optimal posture, or if posture management strategies align with performance goals. The aim of this study was to develop an interdisciplinary theory of posture to support musicians’ health and performance. This qualitative study used constructivist grounded theory as its methodological framework. Purposive sampling recruited four heads of university instrumental departments, three university physiotherapy lecturers and three heads of Alexander Technique teacher training schools to participate in semi-structured interviews. Interview transcripts were analyzed using grounded theory, and results were discussed applying the Theory of Planned Behaviour. The overarching theory of posture for musicians was Minding the Body, suggesting mind-body coordination. Subprocesses included rebalancing the self with the instrument and performance environment (Finding balance); minimizing effort (Maintaining ease); addressing adverse habits (Challenging habits); overcoming traditional perspectives to optimize performance (Expanding the framework), and addressing barriers to optimal posture (Barriers to change). This interdisciplinary theory presents posture as dynamic mind-body coordination to facilitate health and performance.
The expression of music throughout the lives of expectant parents
Authors: Dayton Carolyn J. , Matthews Wendy K. , Hicks Laurel M. , Malone Johanna C.
Published: February 2017

Music can promote emotion regulation in individuals exposed to trauma and stress and may support positive parenting behaviors. The primary aim of the current study was to examine the use of music in the lives of a sample of expectant mothers and fathers ( N = 102), who were considered at risk for insensitive parenting due to exposure to environmental and psychosocial stressors. Interviews probed childhood memories of music, current engagement with music, and parental plans to share music with their infants after birth. Using principles of grounded theory, a thematic coding process was employed. Findings highlight the relationship-salient and culturally embedded nature of music in the lives of these parents. Parents described the intergenerational transmission of musical family traditions. They recalled memories of music, which were linked in important ways to the central caregivers in their own early lives and described their intentions to use music in similar ways when caring for their own children. Parents also described the fundamental integration of music within their communities and culture. Findings suggest that promoting parental use of music to soothe and care for their children may be one cost-effective intervention technique that supports feelings of parental competence and parent–infant connection.
Paving the Way to Change for Youth at the Gap between Child and Adolescent and Adult Mental Health Services
Authors: Abidi Sabina
Published: February 2017

By 2020 mental illness will be one of the 5 most common illnesses causing morbidity, mortality and disability among youth. At least 20% of Canadian youth have a psychiatric disorder the impact of which can dramatically alter their life trajectory. Focus on the factors contributing to this problem is crucial. Lack of coordination between child and adolescent mental health systems (CAMHS) and adult mental health systems (AMHS) and consequent disruption of care during this vulnerable time of transition is one such factor. Reasons for and the impact of this divide are multilayered, many of which are embedded in outdated, poorly informed approaches to care for this population in transition. This paper considers the etiology behind these reasons as potential foci for change. The paper also briefly outlines recent initiatives ongoing in Canada and internationally that reflect appreciation of these factors in the attempt to minimize the gap in service provision for youth in transition. The need to continue with research and program development endeavours for youth with mental illness whereby access to services and readiness for transition is no longer determined by age is strongly supported.
Selexipag, an Oral Prostacyclin-Receptor Agonist for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Baker William L. , Darsaklis Konstadina , Singhvi Aditi , Salerno Edward L.
Published: February 2017

Objective: To evaluate the data supporting the approval of selexipag and discuss its potential place in therapy for managing pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Data Sources: A systematic review of the literature for all relevant articles was performed through January 16, 2017, using MEDLINE and SCOPUS. A manual search of references from reports of clinical trials, review articles, and recent conference abstracts was performed to identify additional relevant studies. Study Selection and Data Extraction: Eligible citations included in vitro or in vivo evaluations of selexipag, with no restrictions on patient population or indication. Data related to the patient populations and outcomes of interest were extracted from each citation. Data Synthesis: Single phase II and phase III trials have been published evaluating selexipag in patients with PAH. In 43 patients, the phase II trial showed that selexipag significantly reduced pulmonary vascular resistance by 30% versus placebo ( P = 0.0045) and improved 6-minute walk distance by 24 m ( P < 0.05). The larger phase III trial enrolled 1156 patients with PAH, showing that selexipag lowered the incidence of death or PAH-related complications by 40% versus placebo ( P < 0.001). Selexipag also improved 6-minute walk distance and lowered hospitalization risk. Common adverse events included headache, diarrhea, nausea, and jaw pain. Conclusions: The specific role of selexipag for managing PAH patients is unclear because of its modest efficacy, lack of mortality reduction, and cost similar to intravenous prostacyclins. Additional clinical trials exploring combination therapy as well as its role in other types of pulmonary hypertension are needed.
Aiming at the same target: A masked priming study directly comparing derivation and inflection in the second language
Authors: Jacob Gunnar , Heyer Vera , Veríssimo João
Published: February 2017

Aims and objectives/purpose/research questions:

We compared the processing of morphologically complex derived vs. inflected forms in native speakers of German and highly proficient native Russian second language (L2) learners of German.

Design/methodology/approach:

We measured morphological priming effects for derived and inflected German words. To ensure that priming effects were genuinely morphological, the design also contained semantic and orthographic control conditions.

Data and analysis:

40 native speakers of German and 36 native Russian learners of L2 German participated in a masked-priming lexical-decision experiment. For both participant groups, priming effects for derived vs. inflected words were compared using linear mixed effects models.

Findings/conclusions:

While first language (L1) speakers showed similar facilitation effects for both derived and inflected primes, L2 speakers showed a difference between the two prime types, with robust priming effects only for derived, but not for inflected forms.

Originality:

Unlike in previous studies investigating derivation and inflection in L2 processing, priming effects for derived and inflected prime–target pairs were determined on the basis of the same target word, allowing for a direct comparison between the two morphological phenomena. In this respect, this is the first study to directly compare the processing of derived vs. inflected forms in L2 speakers.

Significance/implications:

The results are inconsistent with accounts predicting general L1/L2 differences for all types of morphologically complex forms as well as accounts assuming that L1 and L2 processing are based on the same mechanisms. We discuss theoretical implications for L2 processing mechanisms, and propose an explanation which can account for the data pattern.
Chronic Stroke Survivors Improve Reaching Accuracy by Reducing Movement Variability at the Trained Movement Speed
Authors: Hammerbeck Ulrike , Yousif Nada , Hoad Damon , Greenwood Richard , Diedrichsen Jörn , Rothwell John C.
Published: February 2017

Background. Recovery from stroke is often said to have “plateaued” after 6 to 12 months. Yet training can still improve performance even in the chronic phase. Here we investigate the biomechanics of accuracy improvements during a reaching task and test whether they are affected by the speed at which movements are practiced. Method. We trained 36 chronic stroke survivors (57.5 years, SD ± 11.5; 10 females) over 4 consecutive days to improve endpoint accuracy in an arm-reaching task (420 repetitions/day). Half of the group trained using fast movements and the other half slow movements. The trunk was constrained allowing only shoulder and elbow movement for task performance. Results. Before training, movements were variable, tended to undershoot the target, and terminated in contralateral workspace (flexion bias). Both groups improved movement accuracy by reducing trial-to-trial variability; however, change in endpoint bias (systematic error) was not significant. Improvements were greatest at the trained movement speed and generalized to other speeds in the fast training group. Small but significant improvements were observed in clinical measures in the fast training group. Conclusions. The reduction in trial-to-trial variability without an alteration to endpoint bias suggests that improvements are achieved by better control over motor commands within the existing repertoire. Thus, 4 days’ training allows stroke survivors to improve movements that they can already make. Whether new movement patterns can be acquired in the chronic phase will need to be tested in longer term studies. We recommend that training needs to be performed at slow and fast movement speeds to enhance generalization.
k-degree coverage algorithm based on optimization nodes deployment in wireless sensor networks
Authors: Sun Zeyu , Li Chuanfeng , Xing Xiaofei , Wang Huihui , Yan Ben , Li Xuelun
Published: February 2017

In the process of the wireless sensor network research, the issue on the energy consumption and coverage is an essential and critical one. According to the characteristic of the sensor nodes, it is homogeneous, and we proposed the k-degree coverage algorithm based on optimization nodes deployment. First, the algorithm gives the solving procedure of the maximum seamless coverage ratio, when the three-node joint coverage has been provided. Second, when the sensor nodes are covering the monitoring area, the algorithm gives the solving procedure of the expected coverage quality and the judgment methods of the coverage ratio, when the nodes are compared with the nearby ones. And when there is redundancy coverage in the given monitoring area, we have given the solving procedure of any sensor nodes that exist in the redundant nodes coverage. Finally, using the simulation experiment, the results of the coverage algorithm based on optimization nodes deployment are compared with other algorithms in terms of the coverage quality and the network lifetime, the performance indexes have enhanced to 13.36% and 12.92% on average. Thus, the effectiveness and viability of the coverage algorithm based on optimization nodes deployment have been proved.
Too liberal for global governance? International legal human rights system and indigenous peoples’ right to self-determination
Authors: Herr Ranjoo Seodu
Published: February 2017

This article considers whether the international legal human rights system founded on liberal individualism, as endorsed by liberal theorists, can function as a fair universal legal regime. This question is examined in relation to the collective right to self-determination demanded by indigenous peoples, who are paradigmatic decent nonliberal peoples. Indigenous peoples’ collective right to self-determination has been internationally recognized in the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, which was adopted by the United Nations in 2007. This historic event may seem to exemplify the international legal human rights system’s ability to function as a truly global legal regime applicable cross-culturally to all well-ordered societies, whether liberal or nonliberal. The article argues, however, that the collective right to self-determination advocated by indigenous peoples for the sake of cultural integrity is inconsistent with the international legal human rights system founded on liberal individualism. By showing the plausibility of indigenous peoples’ defense of their cultural integrity, this article suggests that the international legal human rights system ought to be reconceptualized to reflect a genuine international consensus on human rights among all well-ordered societies if it is to function as a just mechanism for global governance.
Changing Times, Changing Journalism
Authors: Mellado Claudia , Van Dalen Arjen
Published: February 2017

Although the democratic role of journalism in new democracies is heavily debated, systematic empirical analysis is scarce. This paper studies how the performance of the watchdog and civic journalism role in Chilean newspapers develops during 22 years of democratic transition. We challenge the homogenization-thesis, which has often characterized thinking about the role of the media in democratic transition, assuming an automatic unidirectional trend toward more critical professionalism, where reporters increasingly act as watchdogs by taking the side of ordinary citizens against the political and economic elite. We argue that a rise in critical professionalism is often limited to a brief honeymoon period after the return to democracy. We furthermore argue that to understand changing role performance during democratic transition, one needs to look at specific developments of the media (press freedom, journalism education, advertisement income, and circulation) and developments in the political context, in particular the degree of political conflict. These hypotheses are tested with a unique data set consisting of a content analysis of 20,201 news articles, which make up representative yearly samples of newspaper coverage in Chile between 1990 and 2011. We find no trend toward more watchdog and civic journalism, and limited influences of developments of the media. At least for the performance of these two journalistic roles in Chile, changes in journalism during democratic transition can best be explained by the honeymoon hypothesis and the degree of political conflict. The generalizability of these findings to other transitional democracies is discussed.
The Media’s Informational Function in Political Agenda-Setting Processes
Authors: Sevenans Julie
Published: February 2017

The political agenda-setting literature has extensively demonstrated that issues receiving more media attention rank higher on the political agenda as well. Scholars now try to get grip on the mechanisms underlying these findings. This paper focuses on the media’s informational function as a driver of political agenda-setting processes. It studies the extent to which politicians, when reacting to media information, really learn about the information from the media—as opposed to instances where the media function as an amplifier rather than as the true source of policy-relevant information. The matter is investigated by means of a survey with Members of Parliament (MPs) in Belgium, Canada, and Israel ( N = 376). We confronted the MPs with news stories that had recently been in the media, asking them whether they undertook political action on the news story and whether they knew about the news story before it appeared in the media. We show that politicians mostly knew about the information before it appeared in the media—but that there is variation between politicians and types of action in this respect.
Development of platelets during steady state and inflammation
Authors: Müller-Newen Gerhard , Stope Matthias B , Kraus Thomas , Ziegler Patrick
Published: February 2017

Megakaryocytes (MK) are the sole source of platelets in the body. They develop from lineage-committed hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) via intermediate cells, which differ in morphology, size, ploidy, and surface phenotype. Development and maturation of MKs is governed by different transcription factors, including GATA-1, E26 transformation-specific transcription factor (ETS) family members, nuclear factor erythroid 2 transcription factor (NF-E2), and STAT3. During such challenges as acute inflammation, platelets are consumed in high numbers and must be replenished to secure survival of the host. This is achieved by integration of inflammatory signals into early MK development and depends on the STAT1-mediated enhanced translation of transcripts in stem cell-like megakaryocyte progenitors. Here, we review recent developments, which highlight the impact of inflammation on the development of platelets from HSPCs.
TLR10 suppresses the activation and differentiation of monocytes with effects on DC-mediated adaptive immune responses
Authors: Hess Nicholas J , Felicelli Christopher , Grage Jennifer , Tapping Richard I
Published: February 2017

TLRs are important pattern-recognition receptors involved in the activation of innate immune responses against foreign pathogens. TLR10 is the only TLR family member without a known ligand, signaling pathway, or clear cellular function. Previous work has shown that TLR10 suppresses proinflammatory cytokine production in response to TLR agonists in a mixed human mononuclear cell population. We report that TLR10 is preferentially expressed on monocytes and suppresses proinflammatory cytokine production resulting from either TLR or CD40 stimulation. TLR10 engagement affects both the MAPK and Akt signaling pathways, leading to changes in the transcriptome of isolated human monocytes. Differentiation of monocytes into dendritic cells in the presence of an αTLR10 mAb reduced the expression of maturation markers and the induction of proinflammatory cytokines, again in response to either TLR or CD40 stimulation. Finally, in coculture experiments, TLR10 differentiated dendritic cells exhibited a decreased capacity to activate T cells as measured by IL-2 and IFN-γ production. These data demonstrate that TLR10 is a novel regulator of innate immune responses and of the differentiation of primary human monocytes into effective dendritic cells.
Frontline Science: Shh production and Gli signaling is activated in vivo in lung, enhancing the Th2 response during a murine model of allergic asthma
Authors: Standing Ariane S I , Yánez Diana C , Ross Rosie , Crompton Tessa , Furmanski Anna L
Published: February 2017

The pathophysiology of allergic asthma is driven by Th2 immune responses after aeroallergen inhalation. The mechanisms that initiate, potentiate, and regulate airway allergy are incompletely characterized. We have shown that Hh signaling to T cells, via downstream Gli transcription factors, enhances T cell conversion to a Th2 phenotype. In this study, we showed for the first time, to our knowledge, that Gli-dependent transcription is activated in T cells in vivo during murine AAD, a model for the immunopathology of asthma, and that genetic repression of Gli signaling in T cells decreases the differentiation and recruitment of Th2 cells to the lung. T cells were not the only cells that expressed activated Gli during AAD. A substantial proportion of eosinophils and lung epithelial cells, both central mediators of the immunopathology of asthma, also underwent Hh/Gli signaling. Finally, Shh increased Il-4 expression in eosinophils. We therefore propose that Hh signaling during AAD is complex, involving multiple cell types, signaling in an auto- or paracrine fashion. Improved understanding of the role of this major morphogenetic pathway in asthma may give rise to new drug targets for this chronic condition.
Dynamics of myeloid cell populations during relapse-preventive immunotherapy in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Rydstroüm Anna , Hallner Alexander , Aurelius Johan , Sander Frida Ewald , Bernson Elin , Kiffin Roberta , Thoren Fredrik Bergh , Hellstrand Kristoffer , Martner Anna
Published: February 2017

Relapse of leukemia in the postchemotherapy phase contributes to the poor prognosis and survival in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In an international phase IV trial (ClinicalTrials.gov; NCT01347996), 84 patients with AML in first complete remission who had not undergone transplantation received immunotherapy with histamine dihydrochloride (HDC) and low-dose IL-2 with the aim of preventing relapse. The dynamics of myeloid cell counts and expression of activation markers was assessed before and after cycles of immunotherapy and correlated with clinical outcome in terms of relapse risk and survival. During cycles, a pronounced increase in blood eosinophil counts was observed along with a reduction in monocyte and neutrophil counts. A strong reduction of blood monocyte counts during the first HDC/IL-2 treatment cycle predicted leukemia-free survival. The HDC component of the immunotherapy exerts agonist activity at histamine type 2 receptors (H2Rs) that are expressed by myeloid cells. It was observed that the density of H2 R expression in blood monocytes increased during cycles of immunotherapy and that high monocyte H2R expression implied reduced relapse risk and improved overall survival. Several other activation markers, including HLA-DR, CD86, and CD40, were induced in monocytes and dendritic cells during immunotherapy but did not predict clinical outcome. In addition, expression of HLA-ABC increased in all myeloid populations during therapy. A low expression of HLA-ABC was associated with reduced relapse risk. These results suggest that aspects of myeloid cell biology may impact clinical benefit of relapse-preventive immunotherapy in AML.
Two algorithms to stabilize multidirectional Poynting vectors for calculating angle gathers from reverse time migration
Authors: Tang Chen , McMechan George A. , Wang Deli
Published: February 2017

Angle-domain common-image gathers (ADCIGs) obtained from reverse time migration are important for velocity and reflectivity inversion. Using the Poynting vector (PV) is an efficient way to calculate ADCIGs, but it suffers from inaccuracy and instability. A well-known reason is that a PV can give only one direction per grid point per time step, and thus it cannot calculate the individual directions of overlapping wavefields. This problem can be addressed by using a multidirectional PV (MPV), which decomposes the wavefields into several “approximate” directions and then calculates PVs for each decomposed wavefield. However, the MPV still suffers from another instability problem. The PV is the product of the time and space derivatives of the wavefield, and so it will be zero when the magnitude of the wavefield is at a local peak, which means that the directions are undefined. This leads to unstable points when the wavefields are close to a local magnitude peak, and it thus reduces the quality of the ADCIGs. We have developed two methods to stabilize the MPVs. The first method makes use of the property that the seismic wavelet has a short time duration, during which the propagation direction is stable. Thus, for each point in a decomposed wavefield, a time shift is used to locate the optimal PV during a short time duration, and the optimal location coincides with the local maximum magnitude of the time derivative. Therefore, there is a time shift between the wavefield and its corresponding PV. The second method combines the existing optical flow (OF) with the multidirectional scheme to produce a multidirectional OF (MOF). The MOF is iterative, and thus it has greater computational complexity. Numerical examples show that the time-shift MPV and MOF give more accurate ADCIGs than those using MPV only.
Amplitude-versus-angle inversion based on theL1-norm-based likelihood function and the total variation regularization constraint
Authors: Li Chuanhui , Zhang Fanchang
Published: February 2017

In prestack seismic data, outlier errors occur and can negatively influence the outcome of the amplitude-versus-angle (AVA) inversion process. Hence, their effect needs to be minimized during AVA inversion. AVA inversion based on the [Formula: see text]-norm-based likelihood function is highly sensitive to outlier errors. In comparison, AVA inversion based on the [Formula: see text]-norm-based likelihood function is less affected by outlier errors, and for this reason we have used it with the total variation regularization method used as a constraint to invert discontinuities from geologic bodies. To ensure that the inversion results contain low-frequency components, prior information constraints from model parameters are added to the inverse objective function, which is then solved by the iterative reweighted least-squares method. Results of numerical tests and real-data examples from the application of this method indicate that the algorithm is strongly robust against noise, especially abnormal outlier errors, and that the results of the inversion are reasonable.
Inductive induced polarization effect in heliborne time-domain electromagnetic data for uranium exploration, northern part of Cuddapah Basin, India
Authors: Ramesh Babu Veldi , Patra Indrajit , Tripathi Shailesh , Muthyala Sridhar , Chaturvedi Anand K.
Published: February 2017

The Peddagattu, Lambapur, Chitrial and Koppunuru uranium deposits along the northern margins of the Cuddapah Basin are confined to the middle Proterozoic unconformity interface between Archean basement granites and the overlying resistive quartzites. Negative transients observed in the coincident loop heliborne time-domain electromagnetic (HTEM) data over these deposits (occurring in outliers) are believed to be due to thick polarizable conductive zones occurring along the unconformity. Similar negative HTEM responses are recorded over the Gorukunta Tanda outlier. A ground spectral induced polarization (SIP) survey conducted over the outlier and ground geologic observations indicated an altered basement/regolith with thickness up to 5 m below 20–30 m thick quartzite. Interpretation of Cole-Cole parameters computed from the SIP data indicated a change in the dispersion. These Cole-Cole parameters were used in modeling negative HTEM data assuming a polarizable plate placed in a layered earth at a depth of approximately 50 m using the CSIRO LeroiAir program. A negative [Formula: see text] response in the late channels indicated that the negatives can be explained in terms of inductive induced polarization effects. Modeling of HTEM [Formula: see text] data for the profile through the Lambapur uranium deposit and the Gorukunta Tanda reveals the presence of a polarizable lithologic unit at a depth of approximately 40 m. This unit is interpreted as an argillic alteration of basement, with the presence of clay and/or disseminated sulfides as evidenced from the core extracted from the boreholes at depths below the highly resistive quartzite. Uranium mineralization is closely associated with altered basement and sulfides along the unconformity where the distinct negative electromagnetic (EM) signature is recorded. Furthermore, there exists a good correlation between the uranium mineralization grade and the thickness versus the averaged late-channel negative HTEM response over the known deposits. The negative EM response helped in locating the new target areas for uranium exploration.