bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Does informal caregiving affect self‐esteem? Results from a population‐based study of individuals aged 40 and over in Germany from 2002 to 2014
Authors: Hajek André , König Hans‐Helmut 
Published: November 2017

BackgroundWhile it is known that informal caregiving is associated with care‐derived self‐esteem cross‐sectionally, little is known about the impact of informal caregiving on general self‐esteem longitudinally. Thus, we aimed at examining whether informal caregiving affects general self‐esteem using a longitudinal approach.MethodsData were gathered from a population‐based sample of community‐dwelling individuals aged 40 and over in Germany from 2002 to 2014 (n = 21 271). General self‐esteem was quantified using the Rosenberg scale. Individuals were asked whether they provide informal care regularly.ResultsFixed effects regressions showed no significant effect of informal caregiving on general self‐esteem longitudinally. General self‐esteem decreased with increasing morbidity, increasing age, decreasing social ties, whereas it was not associated with changes in employment status, marital status and body mass index. Additional models showed that decreases in self‐esteem were associated with decreases in functional health and increases in depressive symptoms.ConclusionOur longitudinal study emphasises that the occurrence of informal caregiving did not affect general self‐esteem longitudinally. Further research is needed in other cultural settings using panel data methods.
The development of D antibodies after D‐mismatched kidney transplantation in a setting of reduced immunosuppression
Authors: Habets Thomas H.P.M. , Vanderlocht Joris , Straat Ron J.M.H.E. , van Smaalen Tim C. , Bos Gerard M.J. , Beckers Erik A. , Christiaans Maarten H.L. , Henskens Yvonne M.C. 
Published: November 2017

BACKGROUNDD antigens are not taken into account in the allocation of solid organs. Female transplant recipients with D antibodies as a consequence of D‐mismatched kidney transplantation may develop hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn in future pregnancies. We examined D antibody development in transplant recipients who received D‐mismatched kidney transplantation in absence of D prophylaxis and in a setting of reduced immunosuppression.STUDY DESIGN AND METHODSFrom 1993 until 2015, a total of 1355 kidney patients received transplantations in our center of whom 156 received a D‐mismatched graft. A retrospective analysis was conducted; frozen stored sera obtained from transplant recipients 3 months after transplantation were tested for irregular red blood cell (RBC) antibodies using a three‐cell screening and an identification panel. In the case of D antibody positivity, additional testing was performed 1 month before transplantation.RESULTSIn seven of 156 (4.5%) transplant recipients we found irregular RBC antibodies after transplantation, of which five (3.2%) were determined to be D antibodies. We observed only one (0.6%) recipient without D antibodies before transplantation.CONCLUSIONAlthough the risk of D antibody development is considerably lower after D‐mismatched kidney transplantation than D‐mismatched pregnancy, anti‐D prophylaxis may still be advisable for female transplant recipients of childbearing age.
Validating and implementing the use of an infusion pump for the administration of thawed hematopoietic progenitor cells—a single‐institution experience
Authors: Reich‐Slotky Ronit , Cushing Melissa M. , Hsu Yen‐Michael S. , Ancharski Michael , Rojas Johanna M. , Scrimenti Lara M. , Robilio Shawna , Assalone Dianna , Roselli Therese , Guarneri Danielle , Vasovic Ljiljana V. , Goel Ruchika , Shore Tsiporah , van Besien Koen 
Published: November 2017

BACKGROUNDDirect thaw and administration of previously cryopreserved peripheral blood stem cell products is a commonly used practice and should be performed rapidly to reduce cellular damage caused by dimethyl sulfoxide exposure. Cells are typically thawed at the bedside and infused by gravity through a high‐flow‐rate central venous catheter. An existing nontunneled catheter is occasionally used instead and often results in a slower infusion rate. To ensure expedient and consistent infusions, we validated and implemented the use of an infusion pump for thawed peripheral blood stem cells.STUDY DESIGN AND METHODSValidation was performed in two phases: in vitro simulation and in vivo clinical assessment. Total nucleated cell recovery and viability plus progenitor cell viability and potency were compared in vitro between two cryopreserved peripheral blood stem cell units that were either passed through a preset infusion pump or drained by gravity. The infusion rate, adverse events, and engraftment times were retrospectively compared between patients who received infusions by infusion pump (n = 35) and by gravity (n = 38).RESULTSNo significant differences were observed in vitro between the infusion methods for all measured variables. Overall infusion rates were similar in vivo for both groups but were significantly lower for patients who had nontunneled catheters that delivered the infusion by gravity. The time to neutrophil and platelet engraftment was similar for both groups.CONCLUSIONThis is the first study to assess the use of an infusion pump for stem cell transplant. The use of an infusion pump for peripheral blood stem cell infusion is safe, provides a reliable and consistent infusion method, and can mitigate the effect of the type of venous access line used.
Intravenous immunoglobulin–induced acute thrombocytopenia
Authors: Gurevich‐Shapiro Anna , Bonstein Lilach , Spectre Galia , Atweh Nardeen , Gruenewal Tsipora , Shapiro Michael , Tadmor Boaz , Raanani Pia 
Published: November 2017

BACKGROUNDIntravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) has known efficacy in various hematologic conditions, including immune thrombocytopenic purpura.STUDY DESIGN AND METHODSWe present the clinical course of a patient with splenic marginal zone lymphoma, who developed acute thrombocytopenia on three consecutive episodes, with nadir counts of 27 × 109, 50 × 109, and 9 × 109/L, upon administration of Intratect IVIG for hypogammaglobulinemia. An immunofluorescence test applying flow cytometry and monoclonal antibody immobilization of platelet antigens (MAIPA) assay were used to evaluate the reaction between IgG present in the IVIG preparations and the patient's or healthy donors' platelets (PLTs).RESULTSA strong direct binding reaction was observed between the patient's PLTs and Intratect IgG using both methods. A similar reaction failed to materialize with controls. Binding was not antigen specific according to MAIPA.CONCLUSIONSThis is the first reported case of thrombocytopenia as a possible adverse effect of IVIG.
Estimating properties of the fast and slow adaptive processes during sensorimotor adaptation
Authors: Albert Scott T. , Shadmehr Reza 
Published: November 2017

Experience of a prediction error recruits multiple motor learning processes, some that learn strongly from error but have weak retention and some that learn weakly from error but exhibit strong retention. These processes are not generally observable but are inferred from their collective influence on behavior. Is there a robust way to uncover the hidden processes? A standard approach is to consider a state space model where the hidden states change following experience of error and then fit the model to the measured data by minimizing the squared error between measurement and model prediction. We found that this least-squares algorithm (LMSE) often yielded unrealistic predictions about the hidden states, possibly because of its neglect of the stochastic nature of error-based learning. We found that behavioral data during adaptation was better explained by a system in which both error-based learning and movement production were stochastic processes. To uncover the hidden states of learning, we developed a generalized expectation maximization (EM) algorithm. In simulation, we found that although LMSE tracked the measured data marginally better than EM, EM was far more accurate in unmasking the time courses and properties of the hidden states of learning. In a power analysis designed to measure the effect of an intervention on sensorimotor learning, EM significantly reduced the number of subjects that were required for effective hypothesis testing. In summary, we developed a new approach for analysis of data in sensorimotor experiments. The new algorithm improved the ability to uncover the multiple processes that contribute to learning from error.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Motor learning is supported by multiple adaptive processes, each with distinct error sensitivity and forgetting rates. We developed a generalized expectation maximization algorithm that uncovers these hidden processes in the context of modern sensorimotor learning experiments that include error-clamp trials and set breaks. The resulting toolbox may improve the ability to identify the properties of these hidden processes and reduce the number of subjects needed to test the effectiveness of interventions on sensorimotor learning.
Quantitative input-output relationships between human soleus muscle spindle afferents and motoneurons
Authors: McComas Alan , deBruin Hubert , Fu Winnie 
Published: November 2017

A method is described that, for the first time, allows instantaneous estimation of the Ia fiber input to human soleus motoneurons following electrical stimulation of the tibial nerve. The basis of the method is to determine the thresholds of the most and least excitable 1a fibers to electrical stimulation, and to treat the intervening thresholds as having a normal distribution about the mean; the validity of this approach is discussed. It was found that, for the same Ia fiber input, the percentage of soleus motoneurons contributing to the H (Hoffmann)-reflex differed considerably among subjects; when the results were pooled, however, there was an approximately linear relationship between Ia input and motoneuron output. Weak extension of the great toe diminished the soleus motoneuron reflex discharge in all but 2 of 16 subjects; the results for weak ankle plantarflexion were less consistent, but overall, there was a reduction in soleus motoneuron output also. The methodology should provide new insights into disorders of movement and tone, especially as it permits estimates of motoneuron depolarization to be made. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Assuming a normal distribution of Ia fiber thresholds to electrical stimulation and using the H-reflex, we determined for the first time an Ia input-α-motoneuron output relationship for the human soleus muscle. The relationship varies greatly among subjects but, overall, is approximately linear. Minimal contraction of a toe muscle alters the relationship dramatically, probably due to presynaptic inhibition of Ia fibers. Drawing on the literature, we can calculate changes in α-motoneuron membrane potential.
Implantable computer-controlled adaptive multielectrode positioning system
Authors: Ferrea E. , Suriya-Arunroj L. , Hoehl D. , Thomas U. , Gail A. 
Published: November 2017

Acute neuronal recordings performed with metal microelectrodes in nonhuman primates allow investigating the neural substrate of complex cognitive behaviors. Yet the daily reinsertion and positioning of the electrodes prevents recording from many neurons simultaneously, limiting the suitability of these types of recordings for brain-computer interface applications or for large-scale population statistical methods on a trial-by-trial basis. In contrast, chronically implanted multielectrode arrays offer the opportunity to record from many neurons simultaneously, but immovable electrodes prevent optimization of the signal during and after implantation and cause the tissue response to progressively impair the transduced signal quality, thereby limiting the number of different neurons that can be recorded over the lifetime of the implant. Semichronically implanted matrices of electrodes, instead, allow individually movable electrodes in depth and achieve higher channel count compared with acute methods, hence partially overcoming these limitations. Existing semichronic systems with higher channel count lack computerized control of electrode movements, leading to limited user-friendliness and uncertainty in depth positioning. Here we demonstrate a chronically implantable adaptive multielectrode positioning system with detachable drive for computerized depth adjustment of individual electrodes over several millimeters. This semichronic 16-channel system is designed to optimize the simultaneous yield of units in an extended period following implantation since the electrodes can be independently depth adjusted with minimal effort and their signal quality continuously assessed. Importantly, the electrode array is designed to remain within a chronic recording chamber for a prolonged time or can be used for acute recordings with high signal-to-noise ratio in the cerebral cortex of nonhuman primates. NEW & NOTEWORTHY We present a 16-channel motorized, semichronic multielectrode array with individually depth-adjustable electrodes to record in the cerebral cortex of nonhuman primates. Compared with fixed-geometry arrays, this system allows repeated reestablishing of single neuron isolation. Compared with manually adjustable arrays it benefits from computer-controlled positioning. Compared with motorized semichronic systems it allows higher channel counts due to a robotic single actuator approach. Overall the system is designed to optimize the simultaneous yield of units over the course of implantation.
Impact of Volcanic Eruptions on Decadal to Centennial Fluctuations of Arctic Sea Ice Extent during the Last Millennium and on Initiation of the Little Ice Age
Authors: Slawinska Joanna , Robock Alan 
Published: November 2017

AbstractThis study evaluates different hypotheses of the origin of the Little Ice Age, focusing on the long-term response of Arctic sea ice and oceanic circulation to solar and volcanic perturbations. The authors analyze the Last Millennium Ensemble of climate model simulations carried out with the Community Earth System Model at the National Center for Atmospheric Research. The authors examine the duration and strength of volcanic perturbations, and the effects of initial and boundary conditions, such as the phase of the Atlantic multidecadal oscillation. They evaluate the impacts of these factors on decadal-to-multicentennial perturbations of the cryospheric, oceanic, and atmospheric components of the climate system. The authors show that, at least in the Last Millennium Ensemble, volcanic eruptions are followed by a decadal-scale positive response of the Atlantic multidecadal overturning circulation, followed by a centennial-scale enhancement of the Northern Hemispheric sea ice extent. It is hypothesized that a few mechanisms, not just one, may have to play a role in consistently explaining such a simulated climate response at both decadal and centennial time scales. The authors argue that large volcanic forcing is necessary to explain the origin and duration of Little Ice Age–like perturbations in the Last Millennium Ensemble. Other forcings might play a role as well. In particular, prolonged fluctuations in solar irradiance associated with solar minima potentially amplify the enhancement of the magnitude of volcanically triggered anomalies of Arctic sea ice extent.
The Value of Remotely Sensed Information: The Case of a GRACE-Enhanced Drought Severity Index
Authors: Bernknopf Richard , Brookshire David , Kuwayama Yusuke , Macauley Molly , Rodell Matthew , Thompson Alexandra , Vail Peter , Zaitchik Benjamin 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
A decision framework is developed for quantifying the economic value of information (VOI) from the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) satellite mission for drought monitoring, with a focus on the potential contributions of groundwater storage and soil moisture measurements from the GRACE data assimilation (GRACE-DA) system. The study consists of (i) the development of a conceptual framework to evaluate the socioeconomic value of GRACE-DA as a contributing source of information to drought monitoring; (ii) structured listening sessions to understand the needs of stakeholders who are affected by drought monitoring; (iii) econometric analysis based on the conceptual framework that characterizes the contribution of GRACE-DA to the U.S. Drought Monitor (USDM) in capturing the effects of drought on the agricultural sector; and (iv) a demonstration of how the improved characterization of drought conditions may influence decisions made in a real-world drought disaster assistance program. Results show that GRACE-DA has the potential to lower the uncertainty associated with the understanding of drought and that this improved understanding has the potential to change policy decisions that lead to tangible societal benefits.
A meta-analysis of empirical e-government research and its future research implications
Authors: Wirtz Bernd W. , Daiser Peter 
Published: November 2017

The desired e-government potentials and its shortcomings in reality are key reasons why e-government has become a major topic of interest to academics and practitioners, leading to an extensive body of knowledge. However, the literature still demands further quantitative empirical research to substantiate theory development. This situation calls for a specific review of the literature that arranges relevant knowledge and provides a solid foundation for future research. However, available meta-analyses do not deliver the particular insights to appropriately address the shortage of quantitative empirical e-government research. Therefore, this study explicitly focuses on this specific field to systematically uncover areas requiring further exploration, and defines promising research directions for a solid foundation for future investigations. Key findings of the meta-analysis are: the existence of a systematic divide of existing quantitative empirical e-government studies into 12 research subtopics, which are assessed according to different classification criteria for scientific research gap-spotting; the identification of emerging subtopics that carry innovative research potential; and that e-government is expected to be an ongoing, open-ended research environment that still provides manifold investigative opportunities. Based on these findings, straightforward suggestions for future research are provided. Points for practitioners Beyond providing insights into the current state of quantitative empirical research for scientific researchers, this article also delivers value for professionals working in public management and administration. First, the study provides a comprehensive overview of e-government-related meta-analyses, which allows us to quickly identify the literature in order to tackle particular e-government management issues. Second, the article classifies existing quantitative empirical studies, defines specific subject areas and arranges relevant knowledge, which eases the processes of confining and labelling e-government activities. Last, since these deliverables are based on empirical studies that draw their conclusions from perceptions of reality, the summaries and classifications are thus regarded to be of special importance for public managers.
Targeting novel mechanisms of pain in sickle cell disease
Authors: Tran Huy , Gupta Mihir , Gupta Kalpna 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
Patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) suffer from intense pain that can start during infancy and increase in severity throughout life, leading to hospitalization and poor quality of life. A unique feature of SCD is vaso-occlusive crises (VOCs) characterized by episodic, recurrent, and unpredictable episodes of acute pain. Microvascular obstruction during a VOC leads to impaired oxygen supply to the periphery and ischemia reperfusion injury, inflammation, oxidative stress, and endothelial dysfunction, all of which may perpetuate a noxious microenvironment leading to pain. In addition to episodic acute pain, patients with SCD also report chronic pain. Current treatment of moderate to severe pain in SCD is mostly reliant upon opioids; however, long-term use of opioids is associated with multiple side effects. This review presents up-to-date developments in our understanding of the pathobiology of pain in SCD. To help focus future research efforts, major gaps in knowledge are identified regarding how sickle pathobiology evokes pain, pathways specific to chronic and acute sickle pain, perception-based targets of “top-down” mechanisms originating from the brain and neuromodulation, and how pain affects the sickle microenvironment and pathophysiology. This review also describes mechanism-based targets that may help develop novel therapeutic and/or preventive strategies to ameliorate pain in SCD.
Acesso à justiça e cidadania
Authors: Silva José Afonso da 
Published: November 2017

I - Introdução. 2 - Cidadania e seus direitos. 3 - Acesso à Justiça. 4 - Justiça igual para todos. 5 - Acesso à Justiça e organização judiciária. 6 - Pontos da reforma judiciária. 7. Conclusão.
The Solid-State Conversion of Kaolin to KAlSiO4 Minerals: The Effects of Time and Temperature
Authors: Novembre Daniela , Gimeno Domingo 
Published: November 2017

AbstractIn recent years KAlSiO4 polymorphs have become minerals of interest from an industrial point of view; they have various applications in technological and medical fields. The costs of synthesis processes are often significant and so, in the present study, an attempt was made to develop a new synthesis protocol using a widely available and inexpensive, natural starting material. The KAlSiO4 polymorphs synthesized here were kalsilite and KAlSiO4-01 — 01 refers to the high-temperature polymorph of KAlSiO4 (Cook et al., 1997; Gregorkiewitz et al., 2008; Kremenovic et al., 2013). KAlSiO4 polymorphs were synthesized using kaolin; the effects of time and temperature on the synthesis process were investigated. A solid-state synthesis protocol was developed which required the mixing of the calcined kaolin with K2CO3 in stoichiometric proportions at temperatures of 700 and 800°C at atmospheric pressure. Crystallization of kalsilite at 700°C was demonstrated while that of KAlSiO4-01 was revealed at 800°C. Synthetic kaliophilite H2 was found in both of the experiments as a metastable phase. The products of synthesis were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), infrared spectroscopy (IR), and 29Si magic-angle spinning solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (29Si MAS NMR). Calculation of cell parameters (through Rietveld refinement) and the density and specific surface area of the phases synthesized was also achieved. The amount of amorphous phase in the synthesis powders was estimated by means of quantitative phase analysis using the combined Rietveld and reference intensity ratio methods. In particular, the results of the spectroscopic, chemical, and morphological characterizations are in agreement with the data available for these minerals in the literature, thus confirming the effectiveness of the experimental protocol. The quantitative phase analysis (QPA) also indicated the high purity of the powders synthesized, thus allowing for industrial applications.