bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phylogenetic systematics, ecology, and conservation of marsupial frogs (Anura: Hemiphractidae) from the Andes of southern Ecuador, with descriptions of four new biphasic species
Authors: CARVAJAL-ENDARA SOFÍA , COLOMA LUIS A. , MORALES-MITE MANUEL A. , GUAYASAMIN JUAN M. , SZÉKELY PAUL , DUELLMAN WILLIAM E.
Published: February 2019

We review the systematics of the species of Gastrotheca (Anura: Hemiphractidae) in the highlands of the southern Ecuadorian Andes. We analyzed phylogenetic, morphological, ecological, and acoustic data from populations in the region. We provide an updated phylogenetic hypothesis inferred from a database that contains 42 species of Gastrotheca, and sequences from mitochondrial (12S, 16S, and ND1) and nuclear (POMC and RAG-1) genes. We describe four new endemic biphasic species for Ecuador (Gastrotheca cuencana, G. elicioi, G. turnerorum, and G. yacuri). In addition, we redefine G. lojana, recently resurrected from the synonymy of G. monticola, and redescribe G. litonedis. Furthermore, we describe the tadpoles and ontogenetic color changes in six species (G. cuencana, G. elicioi, G. litonedis, G. lojana, G. pseustes, and G. turnerorum). Also, we describe the calls of seven species (G. cuencana, G. elicioi, G. litonedis, G. lojana, G. pseustes, G. testudinea, and G. yacuri). The phylogenetic relationships estimated here are congruent with previous phylogenetic hypotheses for the group, except for the placement of G. galeata, G. plumbea, G. orophylax, G. nicefori, and G. griswoldi. Because most sister species in Gastrotheca are allopatric, the evolutionarly scenarios that likely have intervened in shaping the diversity are the uplift of the Andes and the formation of cross-Andean river valleys, which probably promoted conditions that acted as dispersal barriers that led to speciation. Many species of Gastrotheca (44%) are highly threatened. Most monophasic species have not been seen since the late 1980s, whereas the highland biphasic species have survived the catastrophic events that led to the disappearance of many other sympatric anurans. Research and conservation actions are urgently needed for all surviving species treated herein, five of which are either Critically Endangered or Endangered because of their restricted distributions (10–1600 km2), habitat destruction and fragmentation, climate change, and pathogens. Two of the new species, G. cuencana, and G. elicioi, mostly are known from the cities of Cuenca and Loja, respectively, where urbanization threatens their survival. In order to call attention to conservation issues, we name one new species to refer to the Yacuri National Park, and the other three in honor of the people from Cuenca, the Turner family, and Elicio E. Tapia, whose actions are helping to halt amphibian extinctions.
The Observed Effects of Utility-Scale Photovoltaics on Near-Surface Air Temperature and Energy Balance
Authors: Broadbent Ashley M. , Krayenhoff E. Scott , Georgescu Matei , Sailor David J.
Published: February 2019

Utility-scale solar power plants are a rapidly growing component of the renewable energy sector. While most agree that solar power can decrease greenhouse gas emissions, the effects of photovoltaic (PV) systems on surface energy exchanges and near-surface meteorology are not well understood. This study presents data from two eddy covariance observational towers, placed within and adjacent to a utility-scale PV array in southern Arizona. The observational period (October 2017–July 2018) includes the full range of annual temperature variation. Average daily maximum 1.5-m air temperature at the PV array was 1.3°C warmer than the reference (i.e., non-PV) site, whereas no significant difference in 1.5-m nocturnal air temperature was observed. PV modules captured the majority of solar radiation and were the primary energetically active surface during the day. Despite the removal of energy by electricity production, the modules increased daytime net radiation Q* available for partitioning by reducing surface albedo. The PV modules shift surface energy balance partitioning away from upward longwave radiation and heat storage and toward sensible heat flux QH because of their low emissivity, low heat capacity, and increased surface area and roughness, which facilitates more efficient QH from the surface. The PV modules significantly reduce ground heat flux QG storage and nocturnal release, as the soil beneath the modules is well shaded. Our work demonstrates the importance of targeted observational campaigns to inform process-based understanding associated with PV systems. It further establishes a basis for observationally based PV energy balance models that may be used to examine climatic effects due to large-scale deployment.
Effectiveness of a Specialized Inpatient Treatment Program for Substance and Alcohol Abusing Pregnant Women
Authors: Vazquez Veola E. , Bergin Aine
Published: February 2019

Effectiveness of a 90-day inpatient treatment program designed for substance/alcohol abusing (SAA) pregnant women was evaluated. Participants were 100 SAA pregnant women who also had additional children. Each woman voluntarily participated in the specialized program while in inpatient recovery. This program included weekly individual therapy and psychoeducational groups: parenting education, women’s issues, prenatal education, attachment, and child development. Repeated measures factorial analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted to determine the efficacy of the program in reducing parenting stress for women using more than one substance compared to those using only one substance. Results revealed a main effect for total parenting stress and parent factors (measured by the Parenting Stress Index) pre- to posttreatment. Subjects showed a greater sense of competence in parenting, fewer feelings of isolation, and lower depression scores posttreatment. No interactions effects were found for treatment and number of substances. The intervention is described as well as directions for future research.
“Your one wild and precious life”: Women on the Road of Ministry
Authors: Johnson Elizabeth A.
Published: February 2019

While women continue to engage in ministry in increasing numbers, their presence and activity is an unresolved issue in terms of ecclesial structure and meaning. In the past the effects of the Second Vatican Council and the twentieth-century women’s movement combined to open the door to women’s active engagement. The ongoing foundation of women’s vocation to ministry lies, in the present as always, in the significance of baptism; its theology and ritual are the same for women as for men. In the face of current impasse, the dangerous memory of biblical women in ministry at the origins of the church offers inspiration and hope for the future.
The Birth of American Catholic Theology
Authors: Haight Roger
Published: February 2019

The eighty years of Theological Studies bear witness to the birth of American Catholic theology. This article traces that development through five stages. During its first two decades scholasticism reigned and authority was watchful. Vatican II then introduced a period of change, followed by a thirty-five-year creative phase in which a modern consciousness discussed new issues. By the final period corresponding to Francis’s papacy, an American Catholic theology was in place.
Pope Francis and the Christological Dimensions of Solidarity in Catholic Social Teaching
Authors: Clark Meghan J.
Published: February 2019

Solidarity is a central aspect of the Catholic social tradition and yet it is difficult to capture in a simple definition. Building upon his predecessor’s examination of solidarity, Pope Francis develops solidarity’s christological character, a previously underdeveloped aspect of Catholic social teaching. Francis’s use of place and proclamation in public ministry calls for an ethic of inclusion and encounter. Francis turns to the Incarnation as informing a theology of solidarity focused on both Jesus as model of solidarity and of lived solidarity as an encounter with Christ.
Poor oral discourse skills are the key cognitive-linguistic weakness of Chinese poor comprehenders: A three-year longitudinal study
Authors: Fong Cathy Yui-Chi , Ho Connie Suk Han
Published: February 2019

Prior research on reading difficulties has mainly focused on word decoding problems. However, there exists another group of children – poor comprehenders (PCs) – who have normal word decoding abilities but difficulties in reading comprehension. Less is known about PCs especially in non-alphabetic languages such as Chinese. This study identified three groups – poor decoders, PCs, and average readers – among 103 Chinese children at the end of first grade. Children’s performances in reading and cognitive-linguistic measures, both concurrently at first grade and retrospectively at kindergarten levels two and three, were then compared among the three groups. This study is the first to demonstrate the distinct cognitive profiles of poor decoders and PCs in Chinese. The key cognitive-linguistic weaknesses of Chinese PCs were found to be in oral discourse skills and working memory. The retrospective data further revealed their oral discourse weakness as early as in preschool years at age 5. Practically, the necessity of developing assessment and intervention tools that focus on oral discourse skills for Chinese PCs is highlighted.
Testing Impact Measures in Spatial Autoregressive Models
Authors: Arbia Giuseppe , Bera Anil K. , Doğan Osman , Taşpınar Süleyman
Published: February 2019

Researchers often make use of linear regression models in order to assess the impact of policies on target outcomes. In a correctly specified linear regression model, the marginal impact is simply measured by the linear regression coefficient. However, when dealing with both synchronic and diachronic spatial data, the interpretation of the parameters is more complex because the effects of policies extend to the neighboring locations. Summary measures have been suggested in the literature for the cross-sectional spatial linear regression models and spatial panel data models. In this article, we compare three procedures for testing the significance of impact measures in the spatial linear regression models. These procedures include (i) the estimating equation approach, (ii) the classical delta method, and (iii) the simulation method. In a Monte Carlo study, we compare the finite sample properties of these procedures.
Pneumonectomy for non-tumoral diseases: etiologies and follow-up in 38 cases
Authors: Harmouchi Hicham , Sani Rabiou , Belliraj Layla , Ammor Fatimazahra , Issoufou Ibrahim , Lakranbi Marouane , Ouadnouni Yassine , Smahi Mohammed
Published: February 2019

Introduction

Pneumonectomy is a surgical procedure associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Chronic inflammatory pathologies increase these rates, depending on the degree of pleural symphysis and the underlying pulmonary pathology. The occurrence of a bronchopleural fistula after pneumonectomy remains of great concern to the thoracic surgeon, because it leads to empyema in the pneumonectomy cavity, which requires protracted and difficult management.

Methods

A retrospective single-center study was carried out on 38 patients who underwent pneumonectomy for non-tumoral pathologies between 2010 and 2017. Of the 38 patients, 22 (57.8%) men and 16 (42.2%) women, the average age was 40.3 years, and 30 (79%) patients were treated for tuberculosis.

Results

The symptoms were predominantly hemoptysis with bronchorrhea in 22 (57.9%) cases. Chest computed tomography showed right-sided involvement in 15 (39.5%) patients, with destroyed lung in 31 (81.5%). Early postoperative complications included bleeding in 11 (28.9%) patients, postpneumonectomy empyema in 4 (10.5%), and death in 2 (5.2%). The average duration of follow-up was 2 years, without any recurrence.

Conclusion

The endemicity of tuberculosis in our context, and the absence of screening for lung cancer, explain the frequency of pneumonectomy for chronic inflammatory diseases, and the rate of complications after this surgical procedure.
Pharmaco-epidemiology of antidepressant exposure in a UK cohort record-linkage study
Authors: Hafferty Jonathan D , Wigmore Eleanor M , Howard David M , Adams Mark J , Clarke Toni-Kim , Campbell Archie I , MacIntyre Donald J , Nicodemus Kristin K , Lawrie Stephen M , Porteous David J , McIntosh Andrew M
Published: February 2019

Objectives:

Antidepressants are the most commonly prescribed psychiatric medication but concern has been raised about significant increases in their usage in high income countries. We aimed to quantify antidepressant prevalence, incidence, adherence and predictors of use in the adult population.

Methods:

The study record-linked administrative prescribing and morbidity data to the Generation Scotland cohort ( N = 11,052), between 2009 and 2016. Prevalence and incidence of any antidepressant use was determined. Antidepressant adherence was measured using Proportion of Days Covered and Medication Possession Ratio. Time-to-event analysis for incident antidepressant use within 5 years of Generation Scotland: Scottish Family Health Study (GS:SFHS) recruitment was performed to reveal patient-level predictors of use.

Results:

Almost one-third (28.0%, 95%CI 26.9–29.1) of the adults in our sample were prescribed at least one antidepressant in the 5-year period 2012–2016. There was a 36.2% increase in annual prevalence between 2010 and 2016. Incidence was 2.4(2.1–2.7)% per year. The majority of antidepressant episodes (57.6%) were greater than 9 months duration and adherence was generally high (69.0% with Proportion of Days Covered >80%). Predictors of new antidepressant use included history of affective disorder, being female, physical comorbidities, higher neuroticism scores, and lower cognitive function scores.

Conclusions:

Antidepressant prevalence is greater than previously reported but incidence remains relatively stable. We found the majority of antidepressant episodes to be of relatively long duration with good estimated adherence. Our study supports the hypothesis that increased long-term use among existing (and returning) users, along with wider ranges of indications for antidepressants, has significantly increased the prevalence of these medications.
Reduced artifacts and improved diagnostic value of 640-slice computed tomography in patients with cardiac pacemakers
Authors: Cao Guoquan , Chen Weijian , Pan Kehua , Sun Houchang , Wang Zhen
Published: February 2019

Objective

The aim of this study was to compare the feasibility of 640-slice with 64-slice computed tomography (CT) coronary angiography for diagnosing coronary lesions in patients with pacemakers.

Methods

Forty-five and 50 patients with pacemakers and with suspected or known coronary artery disease underwent 64-slice (64 group) and 640-slice (640 group) CT scans, respectively. All segments of the vessels were evaluated according to the 15-segment model recommended by the American Heart Association.

Results

The incidence of moderate or severe artifacts was significantly lower (7.27% vs. 32.17%) and the diagnosable rate for coronary lesions was higher (98.91% vs. 94.19%) in the 640 compared with the 64 group. In the 64 group, the incidence of artifacts in patients with a heart rate >65 bpm (20.98%) was higher than in those with a heart rate <65 bpm (15.67%), although the difference was not significant, while the incidence of artifacts was significantly higher in patients with heart arrhythmia (21.40%) compared with in those with normal heart rhythm (15.09%).

Conclusions

Among patients with pacemakers and a higher heart rate or heart arrhythmia, 640-slice CT may be more effective than 64-slice CT for diagnosing coronary lesions, by reducing moderate and severe artifacts.
Estimating Resting Energy Expenditure by Different Methods as Compared With Indirect Calorimetry for Patients With Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Zanella Priscila Berti , Ávila Camila Coutinho , de Souza Carolina Guerini
Published: February 2019

Background: For patients with pulmonary hypertension, nutrition status is an independent predictor of morbidity and mortality, and energy expenditure can be strongly influenced by lung disease. Indirect calorimetry (IC) is the gold standard for measuring resting energy expenditure (REE), this study aimed to compare the results of REE estimated by different methods with those obtained by IC for patients with pulmonary hypertension. Methods: In this cross‐sectional study (n = 34), REE was estimated by bioelectrical impedance analysis and the predictive equations of Harris‐Benedict, Food and Agriculture Organization / World Health Organization, Institute of Medicine, Cunningham, Katch‐McArdle, and Mifflin‐St Jeor. Results: Mean patient age was 47.0 ± 14.5 years, and 76.5% were women. REE obtained with IC was strongly correlated with all other estimation methods but showed higher mean values: IC 1750.8 ± 434.3 kcal vs bioelectrical impedance analysis, 1549.0 ± 417.8 kcal; Harris‐Benedict, 1493.1 ± 337.0 kcal; FAO/WHO, 1536.1 ± 345.0 kcal; Institute of Medicine, 1457.1 ± 293.2 kcal; Cunningham, 1597.3 ± 292.3 kcal; Katch‐McArdle, 1447.7 ± 287.0 kcal; and Mifflin‐St Jeor, 1388.7 ± 303.9 kcal. The analysis of agreement showed a clinically significant bias of approximately −255 kcal in all estimation methods when compared with IC. Conclusion: Although there was a strong correlation between REE estimation methods and IC, there was no agreement between them. All estimation methods underestimated energy needs by about 255 kcal for patients with pulmonary hypertension, and the Cunningham equation had the smallest difference in relation to IC.
Comparison and characterization of discontinuous carbon fiber liquid-molded nylon to hydroentanglement/compression-molded composites
Authors: Brahma Siddhartha , Pillay Selvum , Ning Haibin
Published: February 2019

This article looks at liquid molding of polyamide 6 (PA6) via vacuum assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) of discontinuous recycled carbon fiber composites. Its mechanical, thermal, and optical characterization is compared to hydroentanglement/compression molding. Liquid-molded composites show consistent improvement in their tensile and impact properties at three different weight fractions in comparison to hydroentanglement/compression molding. There was roughly a 10 and 13% increase in its tensile strength, modulus, and impact strength properties at 30 and 40% weight fractions and almost a 120% increase at 50% weight fraction. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry data show that the caprolactam was synthesized to PA6 and was comparable to commercial grade PA6 used in this research. Scanning electron microscopy studies show poor wet out in the case of hydroentanglement/compression molding as compared to VARTM. The combination of better mechanical performance and lower processing temperature (165°C) shows promise in being a viable method to process PA6-based recycled fiber composites.
Feasibility of single-cell analysis of model cancer and foetal cells in blood after isolation by cell picking
Authors: Smith Julie , Mathisen Andreas Frøslev , Funch Richardt Nadja , Vander Plaetsen Ann-Sophie , Van Nieuwerburgh Filip , Stender Henrik , Hillig Thore
Published: February 2019

The objective of the present feasibility study was to transfer single cell line cells to either microscopy slides for downstream immune characterization or to polymerase chain reaction tubes for downstream DNA quantitation. Tumour cell lines, SKBR3 and MCF7 and trophoblast cell line JEG-3 were spiked in healthy donor blood. The CytoTrack system was used to scan the spiked blood samples to identify target cells. Individual target cells were identified, picked by use of a CytoPicker and deposited to either a microscopic slide or a polymerase chain reaction tube (PCR). Single tumour cells on microscopic slides were further immunostained with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (Her2) and epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM). From the picked cells in polymerase chain reaction tubes, DNA was amplified, quantified and used for Short Tandem Repeat genotyping. Depositing rare cells to microscopy slides was laborious with only five cells per hour. In this study with a trained operator, the picked cells had an 80.5% recovery rate. Depositing single trophoblast cells in PCR tubes was a faster process with 10 cells in 5 min. Immunostaining of isolated cells by both Her2 and EpCAM was possible but showed varying staining intensity. Presence of trophoblasts and contaminating white blood cells in PCR tubes after cell picking was confirmed based on DNA yield and mixed Short Tandem Repeat profiles in five out of eight samples. Using the CytoPicker tool, single tumour and trophoblast cells were successfully isolated and moved from blood samples, allowing subsequent immunostaining or Short Tandem Repeat genotyping.
Building Teachers’ Trust in Principals: Exploring the Effects of the Match Between Teacher and Principal Race/Ethnicity and Gender and Feelings of Trust
Authors: Brezicha Kristina F. , Fuller Edward J.
Published: February 2019

Trusting relationships play a crucial role in all aspects of school life. This study builds on this understanding by exploring the role gender and race/ethnicity plays in establishing trust between teachers and principals. Utilizing statewide working conditions survey administered in North Carolina, we employ both descriptive and analytic methods to examine the relationship between the racial/ethnic and gender match between teachers and principals and teachers’ trust in their principal. Our analyses indicate that race matters in establishing trust between teachers and principals. We suggest implications for educational leaders and principal preparation programs.
Is There a Spillover Effect of Targeted Dietary Change on Untargeted Health Behaviors? Evidence From a Dietary Modification Trial
Authors: Sarma Elizabeth A. , Moyer Anne , Messina Catherine R. , Laroche Helena H. , Snetselaar Linda , Van Horn Linda , Lane Dorothy S.
Published: February 2019

Background. The gateway behavior hypothesis posits that change in a health behavior targeted for modification may promote positive changes in other untargeted health behaviors; however, previous studies have shown inconsistent results. Aims. To examine the patterns and predictors of change in untargeted health behaviors in a large health behavior change trial. Method. Using repeated-measures latent class analysis, this study explored patterns of change in untargeted physical activity, alcohol consumption, and smoking behavior during the first year of the Women’s Health Initiative dietary modification trial that targeted total fat reduction to 20% kcal and targeted increased fruit and vegetable intake. Participants were healthy postmenopausal women who were randomly assigned to either the low-fat dietary change intervention ( n = 8,193) or a control ( n = 12,187) arm. Results. Although there were increases in untargeted physical activity and decreases in alcohol consumption and smoking in the first year, these changes were not consistently associated with study arm. Moreover, although the results of the repeated-measures latent class analysis identified three unique subgroups of participants with similar patterns of untargeted health behaviors, none of the subgroups showed substantial change in the probability of engagement in any of the behaviors over 1 year, and the study arms had nearly identical latent class solutions. Discussion and Conclusion. These findings suggest that the dietary intervention did not act as a gateway behavior for change in the untargeted behaviors and that researchers interested in changing multiple health behaviors may need to deliberately target additional behaviors.
Surveillance capitalism and children’s data: the Internet of toys and things for children
Authors: Holloway Donell
Published: February 2019

This article discusses the positioning of children both as objects of economic activity as and subjects of market relations under surveillance capitalism. It looks briefly at the history of children’s engagement with the market economy from their engagement in the labour force during industrial revolution times; their disappearance from direct economic activity during the Romantic Movement; through to their emergence as both data sources and data consumers within a big data economy. It argues that this is the first time since children retreated from the paid labour force in the late 19th and early 20th centuries due to labour law reforms that their activities are of significant economic value, and that the emergence of Internet-connected toys and things for children will significantly amplify children’s position as data sources under surveillance capitalism.
Tourism and urban economic growth: A panel analysis of German cities
Authors: Neuts Bart
Published: February 2019

Even though cities are among the most important tourist destinations, research on tourism as a vehicle for economic growth – most often approached via the tourism-led growth hypothesis (TLGH) – has predominantly been limited to countries. This study explores the validity of the TLGH in an urban context. Panel data were collected for 89 German cities on different indicators of urban economic growth. Pedroni panel cointegration confirmed a long-term equilibrium between tourism, local business tax revenue, income tax revenue and real GDP, indicating that even for cities within a strong, developed economy, tourism contributes to wealth creation. A Panel Granger causality analysis established a one-way Granger causal relationship from tourism to local business tax and income tax and a bidirectional relationship between tourism and real GDP. This causal relationship was stronger for cities with a high to medium tourism intensity.
Experimental study on screw connections in cold-formed steel walls with cement sheathing
Authors: Abu-Hamd Metwally
Published: February 2019

This article presents an experimental study on the screw connections between cold-formed steel walls and cement-based boards such as fibercement boards and ferrocement boards. The effect of loading direction, type of sheathing, board thickness, and screw number and spacing were investigated. Tests were performed under shear which is perpendicular to the free edge and also under shear which is parallel to the free edge of the board to simulate the actual behavior of sheathed shear walls. In each case, the peak load and displacement, elastic load and displacement, elastic stiffness and ductility were found and compared to other cases. The results of the 20 test reported in the paper showed that connection strength obtained under parallel loading was much higher than those obtained under perpendicular loading while as the displacements obtained under parallel loading were much larger than those obtained under perpendicular loading. Consequently, the elastic stiffness values were found to be smaller under parallel loading than under perpendicular loading. The results also showed that fibercement boards had much higher strength than ferrocement board, and that the screw strength increased nearly linearly with the board thickness.
Embodied well-being through two media technologies: Virtual reality and social media
Authors: Kruzan Kaylee Payne , Won Andrea Stevenson
Published: February 2019

How the body is perceived through media is key to many well-being interventions. Researchers have examined the effects of platforms on users’ self-perceptions, including immersive virtual reality, nonimmersive virtual worlds, and social media such as Facebook. In this article, we use several conceptions of levels of embodiment to compare empirical work on the effects of virtual reality and social media as they relate to perceptions and conceptions of the self and body. We encourage social media researchers to utilize research on embodiment in virtual reality to help frame the effects of social media use on well-being. Similarly, researchers in immersive media should consider the opportunities and risks that may arise as embodied experiences become more social. We conclude our discussion with implications for future applications in mental health.
Enlargement and exit: The origins of Article 50
Authors: Huysmans Martijn
Published: February 2019

Many international organizations and the vast majority of federations lack exit clauses. Existing theoretical explanations of this stylized fact focus on issues of credible commitment, signaling, and the risk of strategic exploitation. However, such accounts are unable to explain the adoption of Article 50 by the European Union, which allows unilateral withdrawal. I theorize and demonstrate empirically that in the case of the European Union, an exit-voice logic lies at its origin during the 2002–2003 European Convention. As a protection to undesired policy changes post entry, countries of the 2004 Eastern accession demanded an exit right. Underlying the fear for policy changes was their much lower level of economic development and corresponding differences in policy preferences. As a mirror image, rich outliers like the United Kingdom and Denmark also supported Article 50, which likely contributed to its final adoption through the Treaty of Lisbon.
Patient-reported outcomes of adults with congenital heart disease from eight European countries: scrutinising the association with healthcare system performance
Authors: Van Bulck Liesbet , Luyckx Koen , Goossens Eva , Apers Silke , Kovacs Adrienne H , Thomet Corina , Budts Werner , Sluman Maayke A , Eriksen Katrine , Dellborg Mikael , Berghammer Malin , Johansson Bengt , Caruana Maryanne , Soufi Alexandra , Callus Edward , Moons Philip
Published: February 2019

Background:

Inter-country variation in patient-reported outcomes of adults with congenital heart disease has been observed. Country-specific characteristics may play a role. A previous study found an association between healthcare system performance and patient-reported outcomes. However, it remains unknown which specific components of the countries’ healthcare system performance are of importance for patient-reported outcomes.

Aims:

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between components of healthcare system performance and patient-reported outcomes in a large sample of adults with congenital heart disease.

Methods:

A total of 1591 adults with congenital heart disease (median age 34 years; 51% men; 32% simple, 48% moderate and 20% complex defects) from eight European countries were included in this cross-sectional study. The following patient-reported outcomes were measured: perceived physical and mental health, psychological distress, health behaviours and quality of life. The Euro Health Consumer Index 2015 and the Euro Heart Index 2016 were used as measures of healthcare system performance. General linear mixed models were conducted, adjusting for patient-specific variables and unmeasured country differences.

Results:

Health risk behaviours were associated with the Euro Health Consumer Index subdomains about patient rights and information, health outcomes and financing and access to pharmaceuticals. Perceived physical health was associated with the Euro Health Consumer Index subdomain about prevention of chronic diseases. Subscales of the Euro Heart Index were not associated with patient-reported outcomes.

Conclusion:

Several features of healthcare system performance are associated with perceived physical health and health risk behaviour in adults with congenital heart disease. Before recommendations for policy-makers and clinicians can be conducted, future research ought to investigate the impact of the healthcare system performance on outcomes further.
Synthesis of Imidazoles and Imidazolines from 1,2-Diamines and Ethyl (E)- and (Z)-3-Aryl-3-Chloro-2-Cyanopropenoates
Authors: Lönnqvist Jan-Erik , Holmström Toni , Jalander Lars F.
Published: February 2019

Ethyl ( E)- and ( Z)-3-aryl-3-chloro-2-cyanopropenoates react stereoselectively with 1,2-diamines at room temperature to give ethyl ( Z)-3-(2-aminophenylamino)-3-aryl-2-cyanopropenoates, whereas at higher temperatures cyclisation takes place and imidazoles and imidazolines are formed in moderate to high yields.
Synthesis of 3β-Amino-5α-Androstan-17-One from Epiandrosterone
Authors: Reyes Mayra , Rosado Anielka , Alvarez Yoanna Ma. , Ruiz José A. , Agüero Juan , Vélez Hermán
Published: February 2019

3-Aminosteroids have been obtained starting from 3-hydroxysteroids by tosylation azide formation and reduction to an amine. This method leads to inversion of configuration at position 3. In this work we have developed an alternative way for the synthesis to 3β-amino-5α-androstan-17-one in four steps without inversion of the substituent configuration and with a good yield.
Kf-Al2O3 Catalysed Synthesis of 3-Phenyl-2-Propenoic Acids in Dry Media Under Microwave Irradiation
Authors: Pérez Taimirys Mamposo , Comdom Rolando F. Pellón , Mesa Miriam , Vélez Hermán
Published: February 2019

Malonic acid was condensed with several aryl – substituted aldehydes to the corresponding 3-phenyl-2-propenoic acids under microwave irradiation in solvent-free conditions on potassium fluoride impregnated alumina. Yields were dramatically improved in comparison with classical heating under the same conditions.
Attachment difficulties and disorders
Authors: Turner Melody , Beckwith Helen , Duschinsky Robbie , Forslund Tommie , Foster Sarah Louise , Coughlan Barry , Pal Sanchita , Carloe Schuengel Professor
Published: February 2019

Children and young people who are adopted from care, in care, or at risk of going into care are at higher risk of attachment difficulties and disorders. This may increase the likelihood of mental health conditions and poor emotional regulation. GPs play a role in managing this risk in the community in conjunction with a multi-disciplinary team and supporting referrals to secondary care. However, many GPs are unfamiliar with the terminology of attachment difficulties, attachment disorders, secure attachment and insecure attachment. This article aims to explain these terms and provide an update for GPs on the implications of the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence guidelines on child attachment, which focuses on looked after children.
Shifting Stereotypes of Welfare Recipients Can Reverse Racial Biases in Support for Wealth Redistribution
Authors: Cooley Erin , Brown-Iannuzzi Jazmin L. , Boudreau Caroline
Published: February 2019

When people imagine welfare recipients, research indicates that they often imagine lazy, Black Americans who are perpetually dependent on government assistance. In the present work, we investigate the last assumption—perpetual dependence. We hypothesize that providing information about recipients’ ability to obtain financial independence may reduce racial biases in support for welfare policies. In Study 1, when given no information about recipients’ ability to obtain independence, White participants reported less support for the program and a greater desire to monitor recipient spending, when the majority of recipients were Black (vs. White). However, learning that most recipients gained independence (i.e., they obtained jobs and exited the program) eliminated or reversed these racial biases—an effect associated with reduced negative work ethic stereotypes of welfare recipients (Study 2). We conclude that perceived independence of welfare recipients may shift work ethic stereotypes and increase support for welfare policies, regardless of recipient race.
Different Neural Correlates of Automatic Emotion Regulation at Implicit and Explicit Perceptual Level: A Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study
Authors: Xie Yu , Hu Zhiguo , Ma Weina , Sang Biao , Wang Mian
Published: February 2019

Automatic emotion regulation (AER) is an important type of emotion regulation in our daily life. Most of the previous studies concerning AER are done in the conscious level. Little is known about the AER under the subliminal level. The present study was to investigate the AER at the different perceptual levels (i.e., explicitly and implicitly) simultaneously, and the associated neural differences using functional magnetic resonance imaging. Priming paradigm was adopted in which the inhibition or neutral words were used as primes and the negative picutres were used as targets. In the experiment, the duration time of priming words was manipulated at 33 or 50 ms in the implicit level and 3000 ms in the explicit level. The participants were required to make emotional valence rating of the negative pictures while undergoing functional magnetic resonance imaging scanning. The results showed that the participants experienced less negative emotion in inhibition words priming condition contrary to neutral words priming condition. Significant differences were also found in the left ventrolateral prefrontal cortex and left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex at the implicit and explicit AER. The findings of this study demonstrate that inhibition words can automatically and effectively reduce an individual’s negative emotion experience, and left ventrolateral prefrontal cortex and left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex have been both implicated in self-control during AER.
Gamification as a tool for engaging student learning: A field experiment with a gamified app
Authors: Welbers Kasper , Konijn Elly A , Burgers Christian , de Vaate Anna Bij , Eden Allison , Brugman Britta C
Published: February 2019

In this paper, we reflect on the implementation of a gamified application for helping students learn important facts about their study program. We focus on two design features, of which different configurations were tested in a field experiment among Dutch university students ( N = 101). The first feature is feedback, which is expected to increase engagement, with personalized (“tailored”) feedback being more effective than generic feedback. The second feature is a session limit that was designed to prevent users from “binging” the game, because this could prevent deep learning. Results showed that generic feedback was more effective than tailored feedback, contrasting our expectations. The session limit, however, did prevent binging without reducing the overall number of sessions played. Our findings suggest that careful consideration of game properties may impact sustaining and encouraging play via a gamified application.
Justification of Abortion in West Africa and Interplay of Sociodemographic Predictors: A Comparative Study of Ghana and Nigeria
Authors: Adisah-Atta Isaac , Dim Eugene Emeka
Published: February 2019

Abortion is an essential social and public health issue. The diverse opinions about abortion originate from several factors that affect attitudes toward abortion. Using the world-value survey (2010-2014), this study sought to understand if Ghanaians and Nigerians justify abortion and the factors that inform why they justify abortion. Various sociodemographic variables (religion, religious attendance, gender, and the number of children born) were used to understand their association with justification for abortion. The results here replicate what other studies have found, with emphasis on the relationship that exists between sex and justification of abortion. The study revealed the influence of religion and religious attendance on justifying abortion cut across Ghana and Nigeria. The findings carry implications as to how the debate on abortion can be undertaken in West Africa.
Winning With Personality: Underscoring Antecedents for College Students’ Motives for Team Identification
Authors: Brown-Devlin Natalie , Devlin Michael B.
Published: February 2019

While collegiate athletic departments seek new ways to engage fans, this study proposes a novel approach for understanding sport fans’ motivations by examining how they moderate the relationship between one’s psychological personality traits and one’s level of team identification. Coupling underlying personality traits to subsequent motivations for team identification provides unique psychographics about the target audience, which may assist marketing professionals by revealing which type of people are drawn to sport, and more importantly, why. College students from three universities were surveyed, and results suggest sport fans’ motivations and team identities both exist due to underlying personality traits, thus advancing sport motivation research while simultaneously examining the role of personality in sport-related behaviors.
Minimally Invasive Versus Open Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion Surgery: An Analysis of Opioids, Nonopioid Analgesics, and Perioperative Characteristics
Authors: Hockley Aaron , Ge David , Vasquez-Montes Dennis , Moawad Mohamed A. , Passias Peter Gust , Errico Thomas J. , Buckland Aaron J. , Protopsaltis Themistocles S. , Fischer Charla R.
Published: February 2019

Study Design:

Retrospective study of consecutive patients at a single institution.Objective: Examine the effect of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) versus open transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) surgery on long-term postoperative narcotic consumption.

Objective:

Examine the effect of minimally invasive versus open TLIF on short-term postoperative narcotic consumption.

Methods:

Differences between MIS and open TLIF, including inpatient opioid and nonopioid analgesic use, discharge opioid use, and postdischarge duration of narcotic usage were compared using appropriate statistical methods.

Results:

A total of 172 patients (109 open; 63 MIS) underwent primary TLIF. There was no difference in baseline characteristics. The MIS TLIF cohort had a significantly shorter operative time (223 vs 251 min, P = .006) and length of stay (2.7 vs 3.7 days, P < .001) as well as less estimated blood loss (184 vs 648 mL, P < .001). MIS TLIF had significantly less total inpatient opioid usage (167 vs 255 morphine milligram equivalent [MME], P = .006) and inpatient oxycodone usage (71 vs 105 mg, P = .049). Open TLIF cases required more ongoing opiate usage at 3-month follow-up (36% open vs 21% MIS, P = .041). A subanalysis found that patients who underwent an open TLIF with a history of preoperative opioid use are significantly more likely to remain on opioids at 6-week follow-up (87% vs 65%, P = .027), 3-month follow-up (63% vs 31%, P = .008), and 6-month follow-up (50% vs 21%, P = .018) compared with MIS TLIF.

Conclusion:

Patients undergoing MIS TLIF required less inpatient opioids and had a decreased incidence of opioid dependence at 3-month follow-up. Patients with preoperative opioid use undergoing MIS TLIF are less likely to require long-term opioids.
Do adolescents in care systematically under-report their mental health difficulties in population studies? A narrative review
Authors: Tarren-Sweeney Michael
Published: February 2019

The present article reports findings of a narrative review of self- and carer-report mental health data that addressed the research question: Do adolescents who reside in statutory out-of-home care (OOHC) systematically underreport their mental health difficulties in population studies? A literature search was conducted to identify population studies of the mental health of older children and adolescents in OOHC that obtained self-report data. Studies were selected for review if mental health data were gathered in population studies (i.e., not clinical or treatment studies); data were collected while participants were in care; and participants were not selected on the basis of their clinical status. With few exceptions, adolescents in family-based (foster and kinship) care report less informant-standardized mental health difficulties than do their carers in population studies, with substantially lower rates of clinical-level scores. Conversely, self- and carer-report mean scores obtained for adolescents in residential care are more closely aligned. Foster carer-reported rates of clinical-level difficulties concord with rates estimated from clinician-administered semi-structured psychiatric interviews, suggesting carer-report data are accurate. The reviewed studies collectively suggest that adolescents in family-based care systematically underreport their mental health difficulties in population studies. Several hypotheses for why this phenomenon occurs are discussed in relation to available evidence and theory. Epidemiological investigations of this population’s mental health should not solely employ self-report measures. The findings have no relevance or implications for clinical assessments.
Cervical Lymph Node Schwannoma—An Unexpected Diagnosis
Authors: Silvestre Catarina Falcão , Tavares Joana Almeida , López-Presa Dolores , dos Santos Vanessa Rebelo , Rocha José , João Bugalho Maria
Published: February 2019

Introduction:

Schwannomas—Schwann cells–originating tumors—may develop in many locations. However, primary schwannomas arising within lymph nodes are extremely rare, with only a few cases described to this date in the English literature. For the intranodal location, most of the cases are described in the abdominal cavity. In these cases, clinicians may consider and check for familial disorders, such as neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) and schwannomatosis also called neurofibromatosis type 3. Schwannomas are benign neoplasms. Histologically, differential diagnosis for spindle-cell lesions in lymph nodes is important and must be done carefully, mainly because they may be attributable to metastatic disease. We report a case of a primary schwannoma arising in a cervical lymph node.

Background:

Primary schwannomas arising within lymph nodes are extremely rare, with only a few cases reported. Since they are benign neoplasms, the differential diagnosis with other intranodal spindle cell lesions, mostly malignant, is important.

Methods:

An asymptomatic 69-year-old woman, previously submitted to left hemithyroidectomy for a benign folicular nodule, underwent thyroidectomy totalization following the identification of a large thyroid nodule in routine evaluation.

Results:

Gross and microscopic examination and ancillary studies were consistent with the diagnosis of intranodal schwannoma. The patient had acquired bilateral hypoacusia. Therefore, type 2 neurofibromatosis was considered and vestibular schwannomas ruled out.

Conclusion:

Herein, we present the second case of a primary schwannoma in a cervical lymph node reported so far. The relevance of the differential diagnosis is highlighted.
Blood group genotyping
Authors: Westhoff Connie M.
Published: February 2019

Genomics is affecting all areas of medicine. In transfusion medicine, DNA-based genotyping is being used as an alternative to serological antibody-based methods to determine blood groups for matching donor to recipient. Most antigenic polymorphisms are due to single nucleotide polymorphism changes in the respective genes, and DNA arrays that target these changes have been validated by comparison with antibody-based typing. Importantly, the ability to test for antigens for which there are no serologic reagents is a major medical advance to identify antibodies and find compatible donor units, and can be life-saving. This review summarizes the evolving use and applications of genotyping for red cell and platelet blood group antigens affecting several areas of medicine. These include prenatal medicine for evaluating risk of fetal or neonatal disease and candidates for Rh-immune globulin; transplantation for bone marrow donor selection and transfusion support for highly alloimmunized patients and for confirmation of A2 status of kidney donors; hematology for comprehensive typing for patients with anemia requiring chronic transfusion; and oncology for patients receiving monoclonal antibody therapies that interfere with pretransfusion testing. A genomics approach allows, for the first time, the ability to routinely select donor units antigen matched to recipients for more than ABO/RhD to reduce complications. Of relevance, the growth of whole-genome sequencing in chronic disease and for general health will provide patients’ comprehensive extended blood group profile as part of their medical record to be used to inform selection of the optimal transfusion therapy.