bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Addressing Children’s Needs in Disasters: A Regional Pediatric Tabletop Exercise
Authors: Chung Sarita , Gardner Aaron H. , Schonfeld David J. , Franks Jessica L. , So Marvin , Dziuban Eric J. , Peacock Georgina
Published: January 2018

Objective

Preparing and responding to the needs of children during public health emergencies continues to be challenging. The purpose of this study was to assess the usefulness of a tabletop exercise in initiating pediatric preparedness strategies and assessing the impact of the exercise on participants’ understanding of and confidence in their roles during pediatric public health emergencies.

Methods

A tabletop exercise was developed to simulate a public health emergency scenario involving smallpox in a child, with subsequent spread to multiple states. During the exercise, participants discussed and developed communication, collaboration, and medical countermeasure strategies to enhance pediatric public health preparedness. Exercise evaluation was designed to assess participants’ knowledge gained and level of confidence surrounding pediatric public health emergencies.

Results

In total, 22 participants identified over 100 communication and collaboration strategies to promote pediatric public health preparedness during the exercise and found that the most beneficial aspect during the exercise was the partnership between pediatricians and public health officials. Participants’ knowledge and level of confidence surrounding a pediatric public health emergency increased after the exercise.

Conclusion

The tabletop exercise was effective in identifying strategies to improve pediatric public health preparedness as well as enhancing participants’ knowledge and confidence surrounding a potential pediatric public health emergency. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2018;12:582–586)
Implementation Lessons Learned From the Benefits of Enhanced Terminal Room (BETR) Disinfection Study: Process and Perceptions of Enhanced Disinfection with Ultraviolet Disinfection Devices
Authors: Anderson Deverick J. , Knelson Lauren P. , Moehring Rebekah W. , Lewis Sarah S. , Weber David J. , Chen Luke F. , Triplett Patricia F. , Blocker Michael , Cooney R. Marty , Schwab J. Conrad , Lokhnygina Yuliya , Rutala William A. , Sexton Daniel J. ,   for the CDC Prevention Epicenters Program
Published: January 2018

OBJECTIVE

To summarize and discuss logistic and administrative challenges we encountered during the Benefits of Enhanced Terminal Room (BETR) Disinfection Study and lessons learned that are pertinent to future utilization of ultraviolet (UV) disinfection devices in other hospitals

DESIGN

Multicenter cluster randomized trial

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

Nine hospitals in the southeastern United States

METHODS

All participating hospitals developed systems to implement 4 different strategies for terminal room disinfection. We measured compliance with disinfection strategy, barriers to implementation, and perceptions from nurse managers and environmental services (EVS) supervisors throughout the 28-month trial.

RESULTS

Implementation of enhanced terminal disinfection with UV disinfection devices provides unique challenges, including time pressures from bed control personnel, efficient room identification, negative perceptions from nurse managers, and discharge volume. In the course of the BETR Disinfection Study, we utilized several strategies to overcome these barriers: (1) establishing safety as the priority; (2) improving communication between EVS, bed control, and hospital administration; (3) ensuring availability of necessary resources; and (4) tracking and providing feedback on compliance. Using these strategies, we deployed ultraviolet (UV) disinfection devices in 16,220 (88%) of 18,411 eligible rooms during our trial (median per hospital, 89%; IQR, 86%–92%).

CONCLUSIONS

Implementation of enhanced terminal room disinfection strategies using UV devices requires recognition and mitigation of 2 key barriers: (1) timely and accurate identification of rooms that would benefit from enhanced terminal disinfection and (2) overcoming time constraints to allow EVS cleaning staff sufficient time to properly employ enhanced terminal disinfection methods.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinical trials identifier: NCT01579370

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2018;39:157–163
High Hand Contamination Rates During Norovirus Outbreaks in Long-Term Care Facilities
Authors: Park Geun Woo , Williamson Keenan J. , DeBess Emilio , Cieslak Paul R. , Gregoricus Nicole , De Nardo Elizabeth , Fricker Christopher , Costantini Verónica , Vinjé Jan
Published: January 2018

We examined norovirus contamination on hands of ill patients during 12 norovirus outbreaks in 12 long-term care facilities (LTCFs). The higher frequency and norovirus titers on hands of residents compared to hands of heathcare workers highlights the importance of adhering to appropriate hand hygiene practices during norovirus outbreaks in LTCFs.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2018;39:219–221
Institution-wide and Within-Patient Evolution of Daptomycin Susceptibility in Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcus faecium Bloodstream Infections
Authors: Woods Robert J. , Patel Twisha S. , Nagel Jerod L. , Newton Duane W. , Read Andrew F.
Published: January 2018

We report daptomycin minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) for vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium isolated from bloodstream infections over a 4-year period. The daptomycin MIC increased over time hospital-wide for initial isolates and increased over time within patients, culminating in 40% of patients having daptomycin-nonsusceptible isolates in the final year of the study.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2018;39:226–228
Reduction in Rate of Nosocomial Respiratory Virus Infections in a Children’s Hospital Associated With Enhanced Isolation Precautions
Authors: Rubin Lorry G. , Kohn Nina , Nullet Susan , Hill Margaret
Published: January 2018

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether the use of enhanced isolation precautions (droplet and contact precautions) for inpatients with respiratory tract viral infections is associated with a reduction in rate of nosocomial viral respiratory infections.

DESIGN

Quasi-experimental study with the rate of nosocomial respiratory virus infection as the primary dependent variable and rate of nosocomialClostridium difficileinfection as a nonequivalent dependent variable comparator.

SETTING

Cohen Children’s Medical Center of NY, a tertiary-care children’s hospital attached to a large general hospital.

INTERVENTION

During years 1 and 2 (July 2012 through June 2014), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention/Healthcare Infection Control Practices Advisory Committee’s recommended isolation precautions for inpatients with selected respiratory virus infections were in effect. Enhanced isolation precautions were in effect during years 3 and 4 (July, 2014 through June, 2016), except for influenza, for which enhanced precautions were in effect during year 4 only.

RESULTS

During the period of enhanced isolation precautions, the rate of nosocomial respiratory virus infections with any of 4 virus categories decreased 39% from 0.827 per 1,000 hospital days prior to enhanced precautions to 0.508 per 1,000 hospital days (P<.0013). Excluding rhinovirus/enterovirus infections, the rates decreased 58% from 0.317 per 1,000 hospital days to 0.134 per 1,000 hospital days during enhanced precautions (P<.0014). During these periods, no significant change was detected in the rate of nosocomialC. difficileinfection.

CONCLUSIONS

Enhanced isolation precautions for inpatients with respiratory virus infections were associated with a reduction in the rate of nosocomial respiratory virus infections.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol2018;39:152–156
Unnecessary Removal of Central Venous Catheters in Cancer Patients with Bloodstream Infections
Authors: Chaftari Anne Marie , Hachem Ray , Raad Sammy , Jiang Ying , Natividad Elizabeth , Chaftari Patrick , Raad Issam
Published: January 2018

We evaluated the rate of central venous catheter (CVC) removal in 283 cancer patients with bloodstream infections (BSIs). Removal of CVCs occurred unnecessarily in 57% of patients with non-central-line-associated BSI (non-CLABSI), which was equivalent to the rate of CVC removal in patients with CLABSIs. Physician education and safe interventions to salvage the vascular access are warranted.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2018;39:222–225
Performance of a Novel Antipseudomonal Antibiotic Consumption Metric Among Academic Medical Centers in the United States
Authors: Markley John Daniel , Pakyz Amy L. , Sabo Roy T. , Bearman Gonzalo , Hohmann Samuel F. , Stevens Michael P.
Published: January 2018

A metric was developed to identify hospital proportion of carbapenem consumption (PoCC) among antipseudomonal antibiotics. The PoCC varied significantly among academic medical centers by Census Bureau geographic division after adjusting for patient mix. This metric may be useful in identifying disproportionate carbapenem use and potential carbapenem overuse.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2018;39:229–232
International strategies of emerging market multinationals: A dynamic capabilities perspective
Authors: Deng Ping , Liu Yang , Gallagher Vickie Coleman , Wu Xiaojie
Published: January 2018

This paper focuses on the importance of dynamic capabilities in shaping the nature of international strategies of emerging market multinationals from mid-range economies. We argue that dynamic capabilities theory provides an insightful approach to understanding the internationalization of emerging market multinationals and their strategic choices. Drawing on dynamic capability theory and unpacking dynamic capabilities into four distinct but related dimensions or facets, we develop a typology of three internationalization strategies available to emerging market multinationals in their international expansion: sequential international ambidexterity (from exploitation to exploration, and vice versa) and structural international ambidexterity (simultaneous exploration and exploitation). Success factors associated with each of the ambidextrous internationalization strategies are also considered. We conclude with a discussion of the implications of the dynamic capabilities framework for theoretical implications and fruitful areas for future research endeavors.
The mixed effects of organization’s and manager’s social capital: Evidence from the case of museums
Authors: Camarero Carmen , Garrido María José , Hernández Carlos
Published: January 2018

Museums are organizations that need to maintain relationships with several stakeholders in order to achieve their economic and social objectives. In this context, the current paper explores the effect of an organization’s bonding social capital and a manager’s social capital on the organization’s ability to build external relationships, in other words, bridging social capital. Results from the study indicate that the structure of internal social capital (cohesion and diversity) and the manager’s role as a bridging tie facilitate relations with stakeholders and other museum networks. Moreover, collective social capital (bonding and bridging) has a direct impact on innovative proposals, on the museum’s image and on incomes, all of which entail key management implications.
Developing an understanding of the human resource (HR) complexities in Pakistan with a GLOBE cultural lens
Authors: Nadeem Sadia , Sully de Luque Mary F
Published: January 2018

This article presents primary data from the GLOBE study in Pakistan and compares them with secondary data from the 61 GLOBE societies, in an effort to increase the interest of scholars of cross-cultural management in Pakistan and also provide a practically useful overview for businesses. Results based on data collected from 152 middle managers using the original GLOBE research instruments indicate that Pakistani society exhibits high power distance and in-group collectivism but low assertiveness and gender egalitarianism. The results also indicate a desire to create a more egalitarian society; however, people appear to treasure the lack of assertiveness and high in-group loyalty. In light of these findings, the authors offer implications for management in Pakistan, in accordance with cross-cultural management literature. In-depth research within Pakistan, as well as comparative cross-national studies, are needed to develop a deeper understanding of the impact of the culture on human resource practices in Pakistan.
Needs frustration makes me silent: Workplace ostracism and newcomers’ voice behavior
Authors: Wu Wen , Qu Yongzheng , Zhang Yihua , Hao Shengyue , Tang Fangcheng , Zhao Na , Si Haijian
Published: January 2018

Employing self-determination theory, in this study, we explore how workplace ostracism (being ignored and excluded by others) affects newcomer’s voice behavior. Through an empirical study with 353 matched supervisor–subordinate pairs from a large high-technology company, we find that workplace ostracism has negative influence on newcomer’s both promotive and prohibitive voice through the mediating effect of psychological needs satisfaction. In addition, narcissism moderates the effects of ostracism on psychological needs satisfaction. Theoretical and practical implications of these findings are discussed.
Does strategic planning help firms translate slack resources into better performance?
Authors: Guo Jinyu , Zhou Bo , Zhang Haili , Hu Chunjia , Song Michael
Published: January 2018

Is organizational slack good or bad for firm performance? Research addressing this question has obtained mixed results. Such studies have focused mainly on the impact of environmental conditions on the slack–performance relationship. In this study, instead of focusing on the uncontrollable external environment, we consider actions determined by firms internally, in particular strategic planning. Using data from 183 US firms, we explore the connection between organizational slack and firm performance with different levels of strategic planning. The results suggest that at low levels of strategic planning the slack–performance relationship is linear, while at high levels of strategic planning this relationship is inverse U shaped. We discuss the theoretical and practical implications of these findings.
Improvement of glucose and lipid metabolism via mung bean protein consumption: clinical trials of GLUCODIA™ isolated mung bean protein in the USA and Canada
Authors: Kohno Mitsutaka , Sugano Hideo , Shigihara Yuhko , Shiraishi Yoshiaki , Motoyama Takayasu
Published: January 2018

The aim of the present study was to confirm the effects of a commercially available mung bean protein isolate (GLUCODIA™) on glucose and lipid metabolism. The main component of GLUCODIA™ is 8S globulin, which constitutes 80 % of the total protein. The overall structure of this protein closely resembles soyabean β-conglycinin, which accounts for 20 % of total soya protein (soya protein isolate; SPI). Many physiological beneficial effects of β-conglycinin have been reported. GLUCODIA™ is expected to produce beneficial effects with fewer intakes than SPI. We conducted two independent double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical studies. In the first (preliminary dose decision trial) study, mung bean protein was shown to exert physiological beneficial effects when 3·0 g were ingested per d. In the second (main clinical trial) study, mung bean protein isolate did not lower plasma glucose levels, although the mean insulin level decreased with consumption of mung bean protein. The homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) values significantly decreased with mung bean protein. The mean TAG level significantly decreased with consumption of mung bean protein isolate. A significant increase in serum adiponectin levels and improvement in liver function enzymes were observed. These findings suggest that GLUCODIA™ could be useful in the prevention of insulin resistance and visceral fat accumulation, which are known to trigger the metabolic syndrome, and in the prevention of liver function decline.
Trypanosoma rhipicephalis sp. nov. (Protozoa: Kinetoplastida) isolated from Rhipicephalus microplus (Acari: Ixodidae) ticks in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Marotta Carolina R. , Dos Santos Priscilla N. , Cordeiro Matheus D. , Matos Paulo Cesar M. , Barros Juliana Helena Da S. , Madeira Maria De Fatima , Bell-Sakyi Lesley , Fonseca Adivaldo H.
Published: January 2018

Parasites of the genusTrypanosomaare unicellular flagellated microorganisms of theTrypanosomatidae. This study describes an isolate of the genusTrypanosomanaturally infectingRhipicephalus microplusticks, characterized through molecular, morphological and biological analysis. Trypanosome cultures, designated strain P1RJ, were obtained by isolation fromR. microplushaemolymph in cultures of the tick cell line IDE8. After isolation, strain P1RJ grew well axenically in L15B medium at temperatures of 30, 32 and 34 °C. The new trypanosome remained stable in axenic culture over 14 passages in L15B at 30 °C and was successfully cryopreserved and resuscitated. Morphometric analysis was performed on randomly selected developmental forms. 18S rRNA and 24Sα rDNA sequence analyses confirmed that strain P1RJ is a new species of the genusTrypanosoma. The nucleotide sequences described were submitted to Genbank. Pathogenicity, involvement in vertebrate hosts, epidemiology, developmental cycle and transmission mechanisms of strain P1RJ are still unknown. Therefore, more studies will be necessary to determine life cycle aspects of this trypanosome, for which we propose the nameTrypanosoma rhipicephalissp. nov.
Optimization of culture and analysis methods for enhancing long-term Brugia malayi survival, molting and motility in vitro
Authors: Lu I. M. , Kassis T. , Rogers A. M. , Schudel A. , Weil J. , Evans C. C. , Moorhead A. R. , Thomas S. N. , Dixon J. B.
Published: January 2018

Lymphatic filariasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by roundworm parasites such as Brugia malayi that spread via a mosquito vector. In vitro culture of these parasites provides controlled conditions to understand parasite biology and provides a cheaper way to screen potential micro- and macrofilaricides. Published studies have used a wide array of approaches and metrics regarding in vitro cultures of B. malayi; as a result, drawing comparisons and identifying the reasons why inability to reproduce outcomes are difficult. This study sought to determine conditions that ensure reproducible outcomes and used evaluation metrics that are easily measured and can be automated to ensure objectivity. We found culturing B. malayi third-stage larvae (L3) in endothelial basal media supplemented with 20% fetal bovine serum and 75 µ
m ascorbic acid in a temperature- and humidity-controlled incubator produced better survival and molting rates as well as longer and more motile parasites than previously reported. The benefit of ascorbic acid seemed to be unique to L3 parasites, as the addition of ascorbic acid to adult parasites had no significant impact on survival or motility. The methods reported in this study will help in designing experiments for both parasite behaviour studies and drug screening applications for disease eradication.
Bell’s Spaceships: The Views from Bow and Stern
Authors: Lewis Geraint F. , Barnes Luke A. , Sticka Martin J.
Published: January 2018

Unravelling apparent paradoxes has proven to be a powerful tool for understanding the complexities of special relativity. In this paper, we focus upon one such paradox, namely Bell’s spaceship paradox, examining the relative motion of two uniformly accelerating spaceships. We consider the view from either spaceship, with the exchange of photons between the two. This recovers the well-known result that the leading spaceship loses sight of the trailing spaceship as it is redshifted and disappears behind what is known as the ‘Rindler horizon’. An immediate impact of this is that if either spaceship tries to measure the separation through ‘radar ranging’, bouncing photons off one another, they would both eventually fail to receive any of the photon ‘pings’ that they emit. We find that the view from this trailing spaceship is, however, starkly different, initially, seeing the leading spaceship with an increasing blueshift, followed by a decreasing blueshift. We conclude that, while the leading spaceship loses sight of the trailing spaceship, for the trailing spaceship the view of the separation between the two spaceships, and the apparent angular size of the leading spaceship, approach asymptotic values. Intriguingly, for particular parameterisation of the journey of the two spaceships, these asymptotic values are identical to those properties seen before the spaceships began accelerating, and the view from the trailing spaceship becomes identical to when the two spaceships were initially at rest.
Style and intensity of late Cenozoic deformation in the Nagoorin Basin (eastern Queensland, Australia) and implications for the pattern of strain in an intraplate setting
Authors: BABAAHMADI ABBAS , ROSENBAUM GIDEON , SLIWA RENATE , ESTERLE JOAN , RAJABI MOJTABA
Published: January 2018

Eastern Australia was affected by late Cenozoic intraplate deformation in response to far-field stress transmitted from the plate boundaries, but little is known about the intensity and pattern of this deformation. We used recently surveyed two-dimensional seismic reflection lines and aeromagnetic data, and data from the recently released Australian Stress Map, to investigate the structure of the Nagoorin Basin in eastern Queensland. The western margin of the Nagoorin beds was displaced by the Boynedale Fault, which is a NNW-striking SW-dipping oblique strike-slip reverse fault with a vertical throw ofc.900 m andc.16 km sinistral displacement. A significant part of this large sinistral displacement is interpreted to have occurred prior to late Cenozoic time. Several low-angle (<30°) thin-skinned thrusts with a flat-ramp geometry also displaced the Nagoorin beds, which are interpreted to have developed along detachment surfaces in oil shales and claystone. The Boynedale Fault is a segment within longer NNW-striking faults that include the North Pine and West Ipswich fault systems in eastern Queensland. These NNW-striking faults are potentially active, and may accommodate neotectonic thrust movement in response to the present-day NE–SW orientation of SHmax. Results of this study, in conjunction with previous information on sedimentary basins in eastern Australia, indicate that Cenozoic contractional deformation is stronger at the continental margins, possibly due to the presence of pre-existing rift-related structures.
Effect of dietary protein content on performance, feed efficiency and carcass traits of feedlot Nellore and Angus × Nellore cross cattle at different growth stages
Authors: Amaral P. M. , Mariz L. D. S. , Zanetti D. , Prados L. F. , Marcondes M. I. , Santos S. A. , Detmann E. , Faciola A. P. , Valadares Filho S. C.
Published: January 2018

An experiment was conducted to evaluate whether a reduction in dietary crude protein (CP) and genotype affects animal performance, feed efficiency and carcass traits of beef cattle at different stages of the feedlot. Twenty-two Nellore and 22 crossbred F1 Angus × Nellore (Nellore: 8 months, initial body weight (iBW) = 212.7 kg; Crossbred: 8 months, iBW = 226.1 kg) were used in this experiment. The experiment was conducted in a complete randomized design with six replicates, in a 2 × 3 factorial design. The factors were two genotypes (Nellore and Crossbred) and three CP concentrations (100, 120 and 140 g/kg dry matter [DM]). The experimental period lasted 224 day, being divided into two stages (Backgrounding = 112 day, and Finishing = 112 day). At the end of the experiment, all animals were slaughtered to evaluate their carcass characteristics. Similar patterns were observed during backgrounding and finishing phases on intake and average daily gain (ADG) regarding genotype. Intakes of DM, organic matter, CP, neutral detergent fibre, non-fibre carbohydrates and total digestible nutrients, ADG (kg/day) and feed efficiency were greater in Crossbred animals than Nellore in both phases. During the backgrounding phase, dietary CP did not influence DM intake. However, a linear effect of CP on ADG was observed in the backgrounding phase. During finishing, Nellore cattle fed 100 g CP/kg DM presented lower ADG than Nellore fed 120 and 140 g CP/kg DM. Crossbred animals were heavier than Nellore at the beginning and end of the trial. Crossbred animals also gained more carcass, retained more CP and fat, and had a greater subcutaneous fat thickness during the experiment compared with Nellore. There was a quadratic effect of dietary CP on retained CP and dressing. The current study found that crossbred animals (F1 Angus × Nellore) not only had greater performance, but also better carcass traits compared with Nellore, representing an option for increasing productivity. Also, it is possible to adjust diets according to phase. During the backgrounding stage, 140 g CP/kg DM should be used, being reduced to 120 g CP/kg DM during the finishing stage of feedlot for Nellore and to 100 g CP/kg DM for Crossbred, without affecting performance adversely.
The Barrier Silence by Edward A. Wilson
Authors: Lewis-Smith Ronald I.
Published: January 2018

The drafting, publishing and subsequent reproduction of Edward Wilson's evocative and sinisterly premonitory poem, The Barrier Silence, is examined. It was written in October 1911 for Part 3 of the South Polar Times (SPT), Vol. 3, prepared and ‘published’ at Robert Falcon Scott's British Antarctic (Terra Nova) Expedition hut at Cape Evans, Ross Island, shortly before Wilson, Scott and three other members set off on the ill-fated South Pole journey. Wilson contributed most of the illustrative material for all three volumes of the SPT, but this poem is the only written article attributed to him, although it is possible that he was also the author of an anonymous poem. Events that may have influenced Wilson to write his poem are also considered.
The association between psychotic experiences and traumatic life events: the role of the intention to harm
Authors: Moriyama Tais Silveira , Drukker Marjan , Gadelha Ary , Pan Pedro Mario , Salum Giovanni Abrahão , Manfro Gisele Gus , Mari Jair de Jesus , Miguel Eurípedes Constantino , Rohde Luis Augusto , Polanczyk Guilherme Vanoni , van Os Jim , Bressan Rodrigo Affonseca
Published: January 2018

Background

Previous work showed traumatic life events (TLE) with intention to harm, like bullying and abuse, to be more strongly associated with psychotic experiences (PE) than other types of trauma, like accidents. However, this association is subject to reporting bias and can be confounded by demographic characteristics and by differences in dose of exposure across different trauma categories. We studied the association between TLE with and without intention to harm and PE, taking into account potential confounders and biases.

Methods

A total of 2245 children and adolescents aged 6–14 years were interviewed by psychologists. The interview included the presence of 20 PE (both self-report and psychologist evaluation). In addition, parents provided information on child exposure to trauma, mental health and PE.

Results

Results showed no significant association between TLE without intention to harm only and PE for the three methods of assessment of PE (self-report, parent report and psychologist rating). On the other hand, there was a positive association between PE and TLE in groups exposed to traumatic experiences with intention to harm (with intention to harm only and with and without intention to harm). Results remained significant after controlling for demographic and clinical confounders, but this positive association was no longer significant after adjusting for the number of TLE.

Conclusions

TLE with intention to harm display a stronger association with PE than TLE without intention to harm, and this difference is likely reducible to a greater level of traumatic exposure associated with TLE with intention to harm.
Is cognitive impairment associated with antipsychotic dose and anticholinergic equivalent loads in first-episode psychosis?
Authors: Ballesteros Alejandro , Sánchez-Torres Ana M. , López-Ilundain Jose M. , Cabrera Bibiana , Lobo Antonio , González-Pinto Ana M. , Díaz-Caneja Covadonga , Corripio Iluminada , Vieta Eduard , de la Serna Elena , Bobes Julio , Usall Judith , Contreras Fernando , Lorente-Omeñaca Ruth , Mezquida Gisela , Bernardo Miguel , Cuesta Manuel J. ,   PEPs Group
Published: January 2018

Background

Cognitive deficits are a core feature of early stages in schizophrenia. However, the extent to which antipsychotic (AP) have a deleterious effect on cognitive performance remains under debate. We aim to investigate whether anticholinergic loadings and dose of AP drugs in first episode of psychosis (FEP) in advanced phase of remission are associated with cognitive impairment and the differences between premorbid intellectual quotient (IQ) subgroups.

Methods

Two hundred and sixty-six patients participated. The primary outcomes were cognitive dimensions, dopaminergic/anticholinergic load of AP [in chlorpromazine equivalents (Eq-CPZ) and the Anticholinergic Risk Scale (ARS), respectively].

Results

Impairments in processing speed, verbal memory and global cognition were significantly associated with high Eq-CPZ and verbal impairment with high ARS score. Moreover, this effect was higher in the low IQ subgroup.

Conclusions

Clinicians should be aware of the potential cognitive impairment associated with AP in advanced remission FEP, particularly in lower premorbid IQ patients.
The impact of parental mental illness across the full diagnostic spectrum on externalising and internalising vulnerabilities in young offspring
Authors: Dean Kimberlie , Green Melissa J. , Laurens Kristin R. , Kariuki Maina , Tzoumakis Stacy , Sprague Titia , Lenroot Rhoshel , Carr Vaughan J.
Published: January 2018

Background

The intergenerational risk for mental illness is well established within diagnostic categories, but the risk is unlikely to respect diagnostic boundaries and may be reflected more broadly in early life vulnerabilities. We aimed to establish patterns of association between externalising and internalising vulnerabilities in early childhood and parental mental disorder across the full spectrum of diagnoses.

Methods

A cohort of Australian children (n = 69 116) entering the first year of school in 2009 were assessed using the Australian Early Development Census, providing measures of externalising and internalising vulnerability. Parental psychiatric diagnostic status was determined utilising record-linkage to administrative health datasets.

Results

Parental mental illness, across diagnostic categories, was associated with all child externalising and internalising domains of vulnerability. There was little evidence to support interaction by parental or offspring sex.

Conclusions

These findings have important implications for informing early identification and intervention strategies in high-risk offspring and for research into the causes of mental illness. There may be benefits to focusing less on diagnostic categories in both cases.
Functioning before and after a major depressive episode: pre-existing vulnerability or scar? A prospective three-wave population-based study
Authors: Bos E. H. , ten Have M. , van Dorsselaer S. , Jeronimus B. F. , de Graaf R. , de Jonge P.
Published: January 2018

Background

The vulnerability hypothesis suggests that impairments after remission of depressive episodes reflect a pre-existing vulnerability, while the scar hypothesis proposes that depression leaves residual impairments that confer risk of subsequent episodes. We prospectively examined vulnerability and scar effects in mental and physical functioning in a representative Dutch population sample.

Methods

Three waves were used from the Netherlands Mental Health Survey and Incidence Study-2, a population-based study with a 6-years follow-up. Mental and physical functioning were assessed with the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form (SF-36). Major depressive disorder (MDD) was assessed with the Composite International Diagnostic Interview 3.0. Vulnerability effects were examined by comparing healthy controls (n= 2826) with individuals who developed a first-onset depressive episode during first follow-up but did not have a lifetime diagnosis of MDD at baseline (n= 181). Scarring effects were examined by comparing pre- and post-morbid functioning in individuals who developed a depressive episode after baseline that was remitted at the third wave (n= 108).

Results

Both mental (B= −5.4,s.e.= 0.9,p< 0.001) and physical functioning (B= −8.2,s.e.= 1.1,p< 0.001) at baseline were lower in individuals who developed a first depressive episode after baseline compared with healthy controls. This effect was most pronounced in people who developed a severe episode. No firm evidence of scarring in mental or physical functioning was found. In unadjusted analyses, physical functioning was still lowered post-morbidly (B= −5.1,s.e.= 2.1,p= 0.014), but this effect disappeared in adjusted analyses.

Conclusions

Functional impairments after remission of depression seem to reflect a pre-existing vulnerability rather than a scar.
Hormone therapy, gender affirmation surgery, and their association with recent suicidal ideation and depression symptoms in transgender veterans
Authors: Tucker Raymond P. , Testa Rylan J. , Simpson Tracy L. , Shipherd Jillian C. , Blosnich John R. , Lehavot Keren
Published: January 2018

Background

Access to transition-related medical interventions (TRMIs) for transgender veterans has been the subject of substantial public interest and debate. To better inform these important conversations, the current study investigated whether undergoing hormone or surgical transition intervention(s) relates to the frequency of recent suicidal ideation (SI) and symptoms of depression in transgender veterans.

Methods

This study included a cross-sectional, national sample of 206 self-identified transgender veterans. They self-reported basic demographics, TRMI history, recent SI, and symptoms of depression through an online survey.

Results

Significantly lower levels of SI experienced in the past year and 2-weeks were seen in veterans with a history of both hormone intervention and surgery on both the chest and genitals in comparison with those who endorsed a history of no medical intervention, history of hormone therapy but no surgical intervention, and those with a history of hormone therapy and surgery on either (but not both) the chest or genitals when controlling for sample demographics (e.g., gender identity and annual income). Indirect effect analyses indicated that lower depressive symptoms experienced in the last 2-weeks mediated the relationship between the history of surgery on both chest and genitals and SI in the last 2-weeks.

Conclusions

Results indicate the potential protective effect that TRMI may have on symptoms of depression and SI in transgender veterans, particularly when both genitals and chest are affirmed with one's gender identity. Implications for policymakers, providers, and researchers are discussed.
Effectiveness of computer-assisted argument mapping for comprehension, recall, and retention
Authors: Eftekhari Maryam , Sotoudehnama Elaheh
Published: January 2018

Compared to traditional pen-and-paper presentation of information, computer-assisted argument mapping seems to be more efficient in developing lower order thinking skills such as memory and comprehension. The present study investigated the impact of argument map construction and reading via computer versus pen and paper on English as a foreign language (EFL) majors’ comprehension, recall, and retention of argumentative texts. To this end, 120 Iranian EFL undergraduates were divided into low and high proficiency levels after taking a language proficiency test. Next, they were randomly assigned to two experimental groups; each group received 12 sessions of argument mapping instruction, one via computer and the other via pen and paper. At the end of the term, participants randomly received two argument map sizes (small vs. large) and were given 15 minutes to read the maps. Then tests of recall and comprehension relevant to the maps were administered, followed by a test of retention within a two-week interval. The results revealed that after controlling for spatial and verbal covariates, the type of treatment had a significant effect on recall, retention, and comprehension, with the software group outperforming the pen-and-paper group; however, proficiency level and argument size did not show any significant effect.
Investigating research approaches: Classroom-based interaction studies in physical and virtual contexts
Authors: Hartwick Peggy
Published: January 2018

This article investigates research approaches used in traditional classroom-based interaction studies for identifying a suitable research method for studies in three-dimensional virtual learning environments (3DVLEs). As opportunities for language learning and teaching in virtual worlds emerge, so too do new research questions. An understanding of research design benefits and limitations is timely for those exploring how interaction occurs between users, and users and the virtual space, and how these interactions make sense within a broader theoretical framework. As a first step, the article describes the types of interaction that are significant to classroom-based research studies, such as learner–learner. This is followed by a historical overview of research approaches and methods used in interaction studies, from early quantitative, to descriptive and qualitative, to mixed-method approaches. Following this overview, the author critically surveys research approaches, methods, analytical tools, and data collection techniques used in physical and virtual second language classroom interaction studies. The article concludes by highlighting the implications and research considerations for the design of new research studies in 3DVLEs.
Serelaxin for infant heart failure in congenital dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Myers Patrick O. , Bordessoule Alice , Tissot Cécile
Published: January 2018

Serelaxin has been studied in trials in adults with acute heart failure, but not in children. We report the first compassionate use of serelaxin in an infant. A 6-month-old girl with dilated cardiomyopathy was placed on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation following cardiac arrest unresponsive to medical treatment. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation weaning failed despite maximal ino-dilator therapy. During the 48-hour infusion of serelaxin, we observed marked improvement in brain natriuretic peptide, left ventricular systolic function, and dilatation. The patient was successfully weaned from extracorporeal membrane oxygenation 24 hours later. The child died after a second extracorporeal membrane oxygenation run owing to sepsis.
Celtic influence on Old English vowels: a review of the phonological and phonetic evidence
Authors: LAKER STEPHEN
Published: January 2018

Debate continues over what was spoken in Britain before, during and after it was settled by the Anglo-Saxons in the middle of the first millenniumad. Schrijver (2009) argues that phonological and phonetic developments in Old English provide vital clues. Accordingly, Old English changed in different ways from other Germanic languages due to contact with an early British Celtic variety that resembled Old Irish. Aspects of this proposal have been greeted with a degree of interest and approval by linguists but have escaped detailed review. This article argues instead that the Old English developments are closely aligned to those found in other Germanic languages. It also includes novel research results which explain the variation in late Northumbrian Old English  and  spellings on (morpho)phonological grounds, showing that this alternation too provides no evidence for Celtic influence.
DEBT STABILIZATION IN THE PRESENCE OF ENDOGENOUS RISK PREMIA: A DYNAMIC GAME APPROACH
Authors: Anevlavis Tzanis , Papavassilopoulos George , Engwerda Jacob , van Aarle Bas
Published: January 2018

This paper focuses on the possibility that financial markets require risk premia on holding sovereign debt of countries that appear vulnerable from a fiscal sustainability perspective. Both the level of debt as well as the rate of change of debt are assumed to impact on the risk premium. We analyze the impact of such an endogenous risk premium in a simple debt game between a monetary and a fiscal player, as introduced by [Tabellini (1986) Journal of Economic Dynamics and Control 10, 427–442]. The risk premium term adds a nonlinearity to the linear model in case risk premia are absent. We analyze outcomes in case of noncooperative open-loop Nash strategies and in case of cooperative strategies and consider the workings of the risk premium as a market-based disciplining device (in case of high debt) and adjustment rewarding device (in case of a declining debt trajectory).
Dietary sources of energy and nutrients in the contemporary diet of Inuit adults: results from the 2007–08 Inuit Health Survey
Authors: Kenny Tiff-Annie , Hu Xue Feng , Kuhnlein Harriet V , Wesche Sonia D , Chan Hing Man
Published: January 2018

Objective

To characterize the major components of the contemporary Inuit diet and identify the primary sources of energy and essential nutrients.

Design

Dietary data were derived from the 24 h recall collected by the Inuit Health Survey (IHS) from 2007 to 2008. The population proportion method was used to determine the percentage contribution of each group. Unique food items/preparations (ninety-three country foods and 1591 market foods) were classified into eight country food groups and forty-one market food groups. Nutrient composition of each food item was obtained from the Canadian Nutrient File.

Setting

Thirty-six communities across three Inuit regions of northern Canada.

Subjects

A representative sample (n2095) of non-pregnant Inuit adults (≥18 years), selected through stratified random sampling.

Results

Despite their modest contribution to total energy intake (6·4–19·6 %, by region) country foods represented a major source of protein (23–52 %), Fe (28–54 %), niacin (24–52 %) and vitamins D (up to 73 %), B6(18–55 %) and B12(50–82 %). By contrast, the three most popular energy-yielding market foods (i.e. sweetened beverages, added sugar and bread) collectively contributed approximately 20 % of total energy, while contributing minimally to most micronutrients. A notable exception was the contribution of these foods to Ca (13–21 %) and vitamins E (17–35 %) and C (as much as 50 %). Solid fruits were consumed by less than 25 % of participants while vegetables were reported by 38–59 % of respondents.

Conclusions

Country foods remain a critical dimension of the contemporary Inuit diet.
Adherence to the Danish food-based dietary guidelines and risk of myocardial infarction: a cohort study
Authors: Hansen Camilla Plambeck , Overvad Kim , Tetens Inge , Tjønneland Anne , Parner Erik Thorlund , Jakobsen Marianne Uhre , Dahm Christina Catherine
Published: January 2018

Objective

A direct way to evaluate food-based dietary guidelines is to assess if adherence is associated with development of non-communicable diseases. Thus, the objective was to develop an index to assess adherence to the 2013 Danish food-based dietary guidelines and to investigate the association between adherence to the index and risk of myocardial infarction (MI).

Design

Population-based cohort study with recruitment of participants in 1993–1997. Information on dietary intake was collected at baseline using an FFQ and an index ranging from 0 to 6 points was created to assess adherence to the 2013 Danish food-based dietary guidelines. MI cases were identified by record linkage to the Danish National Patient Register and the Causes of Death Register. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) of MI.

Setting

Greater areas of Aarhus and Copenhagen, Denmark.

Subjects

Men and women aged 50–64 years (n55 021) from the Diet, Cancer and Health study.

Results

A total of 3046 participants were diagnosed with first-time MI during a median follow-up of 16·9 years. A higher Danish Dietary Guidelines Index score was associated with a lower risk of MI. After adjustment for potential confounders, the hazard of MI was 13 % lower among men with a score of 3–<4 (HR=0·87; 95 % CI 0·78, 0·96) compared with men with a score of <3. The corresponding HR among women was 0·76 (95 % CI 0·63, 0·93).

Conclusions

Adherence to the 2013 Danish food-based dietary guidelines was inversely associated with risk of MI.
Dietary patterns and their associations with home food availability among Finnish pre-school children: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Vepsäläinen Henna , Korkalo Liisa , Mikkilä Vera , Lehto Reetta , Ray Carola , Nissinen Kaija , Skaffari Essi , Fogelholm Mikael , Koivusilta Leena , Roos Eva , Erkkola Maijaliisa
Published: January 2018

Objective

To study the associations between home food availability and dietary patterns among pre-school children.

Design

Cross-sectional study in which parents of the participating children filled in an FFQ and reported how often they had certain foods in their homes. We derived dietary pattern scores using principal component analysis, and composite scores describing the availability of fruits and vegetables as well as sugar-enriched foods in the home were created for each participant. We used multilevel models to investigate the associations between availability and dietary pattern scores.

Setting

The DAGIS study, Finland.

Subjects

The participants were 864 Finnish 3–6-year-old children recruited from sixty-six pre-schools. The analyses included 711 children with sufficient data.

Results

We identified three dietary patterns explaining 16·7 % of the variance. The patterns were named ‘sweets-and-treats’ (high loadings of e.g. sweet biscuits, chocolate, ice cream), ‘health-conscious’ (high loadings of e.g. nuts, natural yoghurt, berries) and ‘vegetables-and-processed meats’ (high loadings of e.g. vegetables, cold cuts, fruit). In multivariate models, the availability of fruits and vegetables was inversely associated with the sweets-and-treats pattern (β=−0·05, P<0·01) and positively associated with the health-conscious (β=0·07, P<0·01) and vegetables-and-processed meats patterns (β=0·06, P<0·01). The availability of sugar-enriched foods was positively associated with the sweets-and-treats pattern (β=0·10, P<0·01) and inversely associated with the health-conscious pattern (β=−0·03, P<0·01).

Conclusions

Considering dietary patterns, the availability of sugar-enriched foods in the home seems to have a stronger role than that of fruits and vegetables. Parents should restrict the availability of unhealthy foods in the home.