bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visits at the primary clinic do not reduce ketoacidosis rates at presentation in type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Yona Assaf , Haim Alon , Friger Michael , Chechik Tzila Gartzia , Loewenthal Neta , Hershkovitz Eli
Published: August 2020

Aim

The rate of diabetic ketoacidosis at time of diagnosis of type 1 diabetes remains high. We examined whether visits to a primary care clinic up to a month prior to diagnosis of new onset diabetes affected ketoacidosis rates.

Methods

Retrospective chart review of children who were diagnosed with type 1 diabetes from January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2014. Data collection included demographics, age at diagnosis, number of visits to the primary care clinic during the month prior the diagnosis, relevance to diabetes and outcome of those visits and the presence of ketoacidosis at diagnosis. We examined the relationship between the rate of ketoacidosis at diagnosis and the number of visits in the clinic, and to the demographic characteristics.

Results

Of 159 patients, 115 visited their clinic in the month prior to diagnosis of type 1 diabetes. The rate of ketoacidosis at diagnosis was similar between those who visited the clinic and those who did not (37.4% compared to 38.6%). There was no difference in ketoacidosis rates between the different ethnic and socio‐economic groups.

Conclusion

Medical encounters in the month prior to diagnosis of type 1 diabetes did not reduce ketoacidosis rates in children.
Editorial introduction: Revisiting Jacqueline Tivers’ “How the other half lives”
Authors: Kraftl Peter , Datta Kavita , Geoghegan Hilary
Published: August 2020

This Classics Revisited section focuses on Jacqueline Tivers’ seminal paper, “How the other half lives.” Published in 1978, the paper sought to highlight the experiences of women, to combat the male‐centred nature of geography as a discipline, and to draw attention to inequalities that result from ascribed gender roles. Our introductory piece explains the rationale behind choosing this paper as an Area “Classic,” provides an overview of the key arguments of the original paper, and briefly summarises the reflective pieces that follow.
Within‐and among‐population differentiation of Aphaniops hormuzensis from ecologically diverse environments (Cyprinodontiformes; Aphaniidae)
Authors: Teimori Azad , Iranmanesh Niloufar , Askari Hesni Majid , Motamedi Mina
Published: August 2020

The active geology and ecological diversity in the Persian Gulf drainages create a rich source of biodiversity for the tooth‐carp fishes from which evolutionary processes can be studied. Here, we explored morphological differentiation in tooth‐carp Aphaniops hormuzensis from three ecologically diverse habitats (Khurgu sulphuric spring, Shur high‐salinity river and the urban canal) in the Hormuz riverine system, southern Iran. The evidence of sexual dimorphism was found in fish and otolith traits mainly in the Khurgu spring. The extreme conditions of the Khurgu spring could lead to the microhabitat segregation by fish individuals with different ages and spatial sexual segregation, and caused high intrapopulation differentiation in this site. However, the most diverged population belonged to the urban canal, which had more elongated pre‐ and post‐dorsal lengths, as well as a deep otolith. In sum, the observed phenotypic variations in A. hormuzensis are mainly influenced by sex‐dependent factors such as sexual dimorphism and the specific ecological condition of the Khurgu sulphuric spring (extreme sulphur‐rich habitat) and the urban canal (high food availability and hybridization event). This study provides the basic opportunity to explore the relative roles of ecological divergence and habitat differences in the morphological differentiation of A. hormuzensis.
Semi‐automated Rasch analysis using in‐plus‐out‐of‐questionnaire log likelihood
Authors: Wijayanto Feri , Mul Karlien , Groot Perry , van Engelen Baziel G.M. , Heskes Tom
Published: August 2020

Rasch analysis is a popular statistical tool for developing and validating instruments that aim to measure human performance, attitudes and perceptions. Despite the availability of various software packages, constructing a good instrument based on Rasch analysis is still considered to be a complex, labour‐intensive task, requiring human expertise and rather subjective judgements along the way. In this paper we propose a semi‐automated method for Rasch analysis based on first principles that reduces the need for human input. To this end, we introduce a novel criterion, called in‐plus‐out‐of‐questionnaire log likelihood (IPOQ‐LL). On artificial data sets, we confirm that optimization of IPOQ‐LL leads to the desired behaviour in the case of multi‐dimensional and inhomogeneous surveys. On three publicly available real‐world data sets, our method leads to instruments that are, for all practical purposes, indistinguishable from those obtained by Rasch analysis experts through a manual procedure.
Context and the evidence‐based paradigm: The potential for participatory research and systems thinking in oral health
Authors: Brocklehurst Paul R. , Baker Sarah R. , Langley Joe
Published: August 2020

The implementation of research evidence to promote oral health is critical, given the intransigent and emerging challenges for policymakers at a population level. Despite this, little attention has been paid to implementation research within the evidence‐based paradigm. This is important as getting research evidence into clinical practice is not a linear path that consists of simple sequential steps. In this article, we argue that we need to consider a broader range of conceptual and methodological approaches to increase the value of information generated. This should be undertaken either in parallel with empirical and experimental designs, or in some cases, instead of. This is important if we are going to understand the complexity and contextual knowledge of the ‘system’, within which interventions are implemented. Involving key stakeholders alongside empirical and experimental designs is one helpful approach. Examples of these approaches include Patient and Public Involvement and the development of Core Outcome Sets, where the views of those that will be potentially affected by the research, are included. The use of theoretical frameworks and process evaluations alongside trials are also important, if they are fully integrated into the approach taken to address the research question. A more radical approach is using participatory designs and ‘systems thinking’. Participatory approaches include subject matter 'experts by experience’. These include patients, their families, carers, healthcare professionals, services managers, policymakers, commissioners and researchers. Participatory approaches raise important questions about who facilitates the process, when it should happen and how the diverse actors become meaningfully engaged so that their involvement is active, democratic and ongoing. We argue that the issues of control, power and language are central to this and represent a paradigmatic shift to conventional approaches. Systems thinking captures the idea that public health problems commonly involve multiple interdependent and interconnected factors, which interact with each other dynamically. This approach challenges the simplicity of the hierarchy of evidence and linear sequential logic, when it does not account for context. In contrast, systems thinking accepts complexity de novo and emphasizes the need to understand the whole system rather than its individual component parts. We conclude with the idea that participatory and systems thinking help to unpack the diverse agents that are often involved in the generation and translation of evidence into clinical dental practice. It moves our conception of research away from a simple exchange between ‘knowledge producers’ and ‘knowledge users’ and raises both methodological and epistemological challenges.
Higher prevalence of metabolic disorders in patients with bilateral primary aldosteronism than unilateral primary aldosteronism
Authors: Zhang Zhihua , Luo Qin , Tuersun Tilakezi , Wang Guoliang , Wu Ting , Zhang Delian , Wang Menghui , Zhou Keming , Sun Le , Yue Na , Li Nanfang
Published: August 2020

Objective

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a frequent clinical condition in hypertension patients and is more frequently reported in primary aldosteronism (PA). This study is aimed at investigating the prevalence of MetS and its components in the two major types of patients with adrenal venous sampling (AVS)‐confirmed unilateral PA and bilateral PA.

Design and patients

This was a retrospective cross‐section study. We analysed metabolic parameters from 169 PA patients subtyped by AVS, including 85 unilateral PA patients and 84 bilateral PA patients, and we also included 169 non‐PA patients matched for age and sex.

Results

Patients with unilateral PA had higher concentrations of aldosterone and lower serum potassium than patients with bilateral PA. However, patients with bilateral PA had higher prevalence of MetS (79.8% vs 64.7%, P = .029), obesity (40.5% vs 24.7%, P = .029), dyslipidemia (72.6% vs 55.3%, P = .019) and hyperglycaemia (29.8% vs 16.5%, P = .040) than those with unilateral PA. Meanwhile, bilateral PA had higher BMI (27.55 ± 4.58 vs 25.57 ± 3.28 kg/m2, P = .001), waist circumference (98.54 ± 11.44 vs 93.32 ± 10.64 cm, P = .003) and fasting plasma glucose (4.98 ± 1.16 vs 4.64 ± 0.93 mmol/L, P = .034). The logistic regression analysis also showed that bilateral PA was associated with the presence of MetS after adjustment for age, sex and duration of hypertension.

Conclusions

Patients with bilateral PA have a higher prevalence of MetS than those with unilateral PA, despite unilateral PA patients exhibiting higher concentrations of aldosterone and lower serum potassium, suggesting that unilateral PA and bilateral PA may have differing mechanisms of MetS.
Novel use of the Bakri balloon to minimize empty pelvis syndrome following laparoscopic total pelvic exenteration
Authors: Bankar S. , Desouza A. , Paliwal V. , Pandey D. , Gori J. , Sukumar V. , Rohila J. , Saklani A.
Published: August 2020

Aim

Pelvic exenteration is the only surgical option for locally advanced pelvic malignancies infiltrating the surrounding organs. The resultant pelvic void after the procedure is responsible for a number of complications, collectively termed empty pelvis syndrome (EPS). We aim to show how EPS can be minimized by presenting a case series demonstrating the surgical technique of laparoscopic total pelvic exenteration with bilateral pelvic node dissection along with a novel use of the Bakri balloon.

Method

This is a case series of three successive patients undergoing laparoscopic total pelvic exenteration for locally advanced primary, nonmetastatic rectal adenocarcinoma over a period of 1 month in a specialized colorectal unit at a tertiary cancer centre. The Bakri balloon was deployed in all three patients and retained for variable time intervals postoperatively. Features of EPS were prospectively documented.

Results

In the first patient, the Bakri balloon was completely deflated and removed on postoperative day (POD) 5. The patient developed subacute intestinal obstruction which resolved with conservative management by POD 12. In the second and third patients, the Bakri balloon was deflated in a sequential manner, beginning on POD 8, until it was finally removed on POD 11. Neither of these patients had any abdominal complaints. A postoperative CT scan of both these patients showed the small bowel loops clearly above the pelvic inlet.

Conclusions

The Bakri balloon is a simple, safe and cost‐effective method to reduce the complications of EPS following laparoscopic total pelvic exenteration. A prospective study is ongoing to objectively quantify the benefits of this technique.
The Role of Social Network Structure in the Emergence of Linguistic Structure
Authors: Raviv Limor , Meyer Antje , Lev‐Ari Shiri
Published: August 2020

Social network structure has been argued to shape the structure of languages, as well as affect the spread of innovations and the formation of conventions in the community. Specifically, theoretical and computational models of language change predict that sparsely connected communities develop more systematic languages, while tightly knit communities can maintain high levels of linguistic complexity and variability. However, the role of social network structure in the cultural evolution of languages has never been tested experimentally. Here, we present results from a behavioral group communication study, in which we examined the formation of new languages created in the lab by micro‐societies that varied in their network structure. We contrasted three types of social networks: fully connected, small‐world, and scale‐free. We examined the artificial languages created by these different networks with respect to their linguistic structure, communicative success, stability, and convergence. Results did not reveal any effect of network structure for any measure, with all languages becoming similarly more systematic, more accurate, more stable, and more shared over time. At the same time, small‐world networks showed the greatest variation in their convergence, stabilization, and emerging structure patterns, indicating that network structure can influence the community's susceptibility to random linguistic changes (i.e., drift).
Heart transplantation ten‐year follow‐ups: Deformation differentiation comparison of myocardial performance in left ventricle and right ventricle
Authors: Ran Hong , Zhang Ping‐Yang , Wan Lin‐Lin , Ma Xiao‐Wu , Dong Jing
Published: August 2020

Background

We try to investigate whether the values of three‐dimensional principal longitudinal strain present differently between the left and right ventricles in patients with long‐time follow‐ups after heart transplantation (HTx).

Methods and results

Transthoracic echocardiography with three‐dimensional speckle tracking was performed at one‐, five‐ and ten‐year follow‐ups in 62 “healthy” HTx patients together with routine echocardiographic evaluation in 32 control group (CG) individuals. Longitudinal strain was applied in all subjects assessing without myocardium wall motion abnormality. Firstly, left ventricular ejection fraction preserved in HTx and had no significant difference in comparison with the controls (p > .05). 3D measurement showed obvious reduction in global (%: CG: −20.5 ± 3.5 vs. HT1y: −13.7 ± 4.6, HT5y: −14.4 ± 4.5, HT10y: −14.6 ± 4.7. p < .01) and horizontal segmental (basal, mid, apical, CG vs. HTx: all p < .01) strain values of the left compared HTx with control subjects. Secondly, tissue Doppler imaging s' velocity and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion reduced in HTx as compared to the controls in right ventricle (p < .01). Longitudinal strain presented a more distinctive reduction in global (%: CG: −24.5 ± 4.6 vs. HT1y:‐14.8 ± 7.5, HT5y: −15.5 ± 6.4, HT10y: −15.9 ± 6.8. p < .01) and horizontal segmental (basal, mid, apical, CG vs. HTx: all p < .01) average values of the right compared HTx with control subjects. Thirdly, there weren't any significant changes between one‐, five‐ and ten‐year of all the values with HTx inter‐group comparison in both the left and right ventricles (p > .05). Fourthly, the global and segmental strain of the right ventricle decreased more than that of the left ventricle in all HTx groups, with the global decreased differentiation rates of 7%, 7%, 6%, respectively.

Conclusions

Compared HTx with control subjects in both ventricles, conventional evaluation showed preserved or decreased functions in the left and right separately. Myocardial function evaluating by 3D longitudinal strain reduced after HTx, but the deformation of the right ventricle reduced more than those of the left ventricle. Additionally, 3D strain values almost remained with stable decreased differentiation rates during the long‐time follow‐ups.
Cytological features and nuclear scores: Diagnostic tools in preoperative fine needle aspiration of indeterminate thyroid nodules with RAS or BRAF K601E mutations?
Authors: Ravella Lucie , Lopez Jonathan , Descotes Françoise , Giai Joris , Lapras Véronique , Denier Marie‐Laure , Borson‐Chazot Françoise , Lifante Jean‐Christophe , Decaussin‐Petrucci Myriam
Published: August 2020

Introduction

The cytological diagnosis of follicular‐patterned thyroid lesions is challenging, especially since the World Health Organisation classification has recognised non‐invasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary‐like features. These entities are often classified as indeterminate on cytology. Molecular testing has been proposed to help classify indeterminate nodules. RAS and K601E BRAF mutations are mostly encountered in follicular‐patterned lesions, but their diagnostic value is not well established. Nuclear scores have also been proposed to help classify indeterminate lesions.

Objective

To investigate the correlation between cytological features and histology and to assess nuclear scores in a series of indeterminate RAS or BRAF K601E positive thyroid nodules.

Methods

The cytological parameters of 69 indeterminate RAS or BRAF K601E‐positive thyroid nodules were evaluated. The Strickland and Maletta scores and a new nuclear score were assessed. Diagnosis of malignant, benign or indolent neoplasms was confirmed in each case by histology. Malignant and indolent nodules were considered surgical nodules, and adenomas non‐surgical nodule.

Results

Surgical nodules were associated with the presence of ground glass nuclei (P = .001), grooves (P < .001) or irregular nuclear membranes (P = .01) on cytology. Nuclear scores were more often ≥2 in surgical nodules compared to benign ones (P < .001), with high sensitivity, but a low negative predictive value.

Conclusions

Analysis of nuclear features is useful to distinguish non‐surgical from surgical nodules in indeterminate FNAs. Although nuclear scores are not ideal rule‐out tests for indeterminate RAS or BRAF K601E positive nodules, they seem useful to screen non‐molecular tested or non‐mutated indeterminate FNAs. This work shows that meticulous analysis of nuclear features on cytological specimens can be useful to distinguish non‐surgical nodules (adenoma) from surgical nodules in indeterminate FNAs. Although nuclear scores are not rule‐out tests for indeterminate RAS or BRAF K601E positive nodules, they are useful in screening non‐molecular tested or non‐mutated indeterminate FNAs for surgery.
Efficacy of various treatment modalities for nCOV‐2019: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Misra Shubham , Nath Manabesh , Hadda Vijay , Vibha Deepti
Published: August 2020

Background

Several therapeutic agents have been investigated for treatment of novel coronavirus 2019 (nCOV‐2019). We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis to assess the efficacy of various treatment modalities in nCOV‐2019 patients.

Methods

A literature search was conducted before 29 June 2020 in PubMed, Google Scholar and Cochrane library databases. A fixed‐effect model was applied if I2 < 50%, else results were combined using random‐effect model. Risk ratio (RR) or standardized mean difference (SMD) along with 95% confidence interval (95% CI) was used to pool the results. Between‐study heterogeneity was explored using influence and sensitivity analyses, and publication bias was assessed using funnel plots. Entire statistical analysis was conducted in R version 3.6.2.

Results

Fifty studies involving 15 in vitro and 35 clinical studies including 9170 nCOV‐2019 patients were included. Lopinavir‐ritonavir was significantly associated with shorter mean time to clinical recovery (SMD −0.32; 95% CI −0.57 to −0.06), remdesivir was significantly associated with better overall clinical recovery (RR 1.17; 95% CI 1.07 to 1.29), and tocilizumab was associated with less all‐cause mortality (RR 0.38; 95% CI 0.16 to 0.93). Hydroxychloroquine was associated with longer time to clinical recovery and less overall clinical recovery. It additionally had higher all‐cause mortality and more total adverse events.

Conclusion

Our meta‐analysis suggests that except in vitro studies, no treatment has shown overall favourable outcomes in nCOV‐2019 patients. Lopinavir‐ritonavir, remdesivir and tocilizumab may have some benefits, while hydroxychloroquine administration may cause harm in nCOV‐2019 patients. Results from upcoming large clinical trials may further clarify role of these drugs.
DO REEMPLOYMENT PROGRAMS FOR THE UNEMPLOYED WORK FOR YOUTH? EVIDENCE FROM THE GREAT RECESSION IN THE UNITED STATES
Authors: Michaelides Marios , Mueser Peter R. , Smith Jeffrey A.
Published: August 2020

We present experimental evidence on the effects of four U.S. reemployment programs for youth unemployment insurance (UI) recipients during the Great Recession. The three programs that emphasized monitoring and service referrals reduced UI receipt but had minimal effects on employment and earnings; these programs mainly induced the early exit of participants. The fourth program, which combined mandatory job counseling with monitoring, caused the largest reductions in UI receipt and clearly increased employment and earnings. Both early participant exits and effective job counseling underlie these impacts. We conclude that policymakers should require job counseling for youth UI recipients during recessions. (JEL J0, J6, H4)
Unifying conspecific‐encounter indexvand Moran's I index
Authors: Chen Youhua , Shen Tsung‐Jen
Published: August 2020

Single‐species distributional patterns have been well studied and quantified using a negative binomial model. However, it is still unclear how to quantify multi‐species distribution patterns. A previous study (Chen et al. 2019) developed a simple conspecific‐encounter index for quantifying multi‐species distributional aggregation patterns when biodiversity data are collected in a consecutive scheme along line transects. Here, through simple derivation, we reported that the previously proposed conspecific‐encounter index had a close association with Moran's I index, which has been widely applied in spatial ecology for describing spatial autocorrelation of ecological data. Our proof unified the conspecific‐encounter index that is applied under the context of line‐transect sampling and Moran's I index that is applied under the context of spatial ecology. The unification sheds light on the development of new statistical metrics for quantifying biological diversity and distribution patterns when line transects are used in field surveys.
Effect of acute angle model on mouthguard thickness with the thermoforming method and moving the model position just before fabrication
Authors: Takahashi Mutsumi , Bando Yogetsu
Published: August 2020

Background/Aim

The effectiveness and safety of mouthguards are affected by their thickness. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of an acute angle model on the mouthguard thickness with the thermoforming method in which the model position was moved just before fabrication.

Materials and Methods

Mouthguards were thermoformed using 4.0 mm thick ethylene vinyl acetate sheets and a vacuum forming machine. Three hard plaster models were prepared: 1) the angle of the labial surface to the model base was 90°, and the anterior height was 25 mm (model A); 2) the angle was 90°, and the anterior height was 30 mm (model B); and 3) the angle was 80°, and the anterior height was 30 mm (model C). The sheet was softened until it sagged 15 mm, after which the sheet frame was lowered to cover the model. The model was then pushed from behind to move it forward, and the vacuum was switched on (MP). The model was moved 20 mm whereas a control model was not moved. Mouthguard thickness was measured using a specialized caliper. The differences in mouthguard thicknesses due to model forms and forming conditions were analyzed by two‐way ANOVA and Bonferroni's multiple comparison tests. Results: The MP tended to be thicker than the control in all models. In the controls, model C was significantly thicker than models A and B at the labial and buccal surfaces. In MP, model A was significantly thicker than models B and C on the labial surface. On the labial and buccal surfaces in MP, model C was significantly thicker than model B.

Conclusions

This study suggested that in the thermoforming method in which the model position was moved just before fabrication, reducing the height was more effective than changing the angle of the model to ensure the appropriate thickness.
Bilateral responses of rat ventral striatum tonically active neurons to unilateral medial forebrain bundle stimulation
Authors: Markovich‐Molochnikov Ilana , Cohen Dana
Published: August 2020

Unilateral medial forebrain bundle (MFB) stimulation is an extremely effective promoter of reinforcement learning irrespective of the conditioned cue's laterality. The effectiveness of unilateral MFB stimulation, which activates the mesolimbic pathway connecting the ventral tegmental area to the ventral striatum (vStr), is surprising considering that these fibers rarely cross to the contralateral hemisphere. Specifically, this type of biased fiber distribution entails the activation of brain structures that are primarily ipsilateral to the stimulated MFB, along with weak to negligible activation of the contralateral structures, thus impeding the formation of a cue‐outcome association. To better understand the spread of activation of MFB stimulation across hemispheres, we studied whether unilateral MFB stimulation primarily activates the ipsilateral vStr or the vStr of both hemispheres. We simultaneously recorded neuronal activity in the vStr of both hemispheres in response to several sets of unilateral MFB stimulation in anesthetized and freely moving rats. Unilateral MFB stimulation evoked strong stimulus‐dependent activation of vStr tonically active neurons (TANs), presumably the cholinergic interneurons, in both hemispheres. However, the TANs’ activation patterns and responsiveness depended on whether the stimulus was delivered ipsilaterally or contralaterally to the recorded neuron. These findings indicate that unilateral MFB stimulation effectively activates the vStr in both hemispheres in a stimulus‐dependent manner which may serve as neuronal substrate for the formation of cue‐outcome associations during reinforcement learning.
Spatial covariance of herbivorous and predatory guilds of forest canopy arthropods along a latitudinal gradient
Authors: Mottl Ondrej , Fibich Pavel , Klimes Petr , Volf Martin , Tropek Robert , Anderson‐Teixeira Kristina , Auga John , Blair Thomas , Butterill Phil , Carscallen Grace , Gonzalez‐Akre Erika , Goodman Aaron , Kaman Ondrej , Lamarre Greg P. A. , Libra Martin , Losada Maria E. , Manumbor Markus , Miller Scott E. , Molem Kenneth , Nichols Geoffrey , Plowman Nichola S. , Redmond Conor , Seifert Carlo L. , Vrana Jan , Weiblen George D. , Novotny Vojtech
Published: August 2020

In arthropod community ecology, species richness studies tend to be prioritised over those investigating patterns of abundance. Consequently, the biotic and abiotic drivers of arboreal arthropod abundance are still relatively poorly known. In this cross‐continental study, we employ a theoretical framework in order to examine patterns of covariance among herbivorous and predatory arthropod guilds. Leaf‐chewing and leaf‐mining herbivores, and predatory ants and spiders, were censused on > 1000 trees in nine 0.1 ha forest plots. After controlling for tree size and season, we found no negative pairwise correlations between guild abundances per plot, suggestive of weak signals of both inter‐guild competition and top‐down regulation of herbivores by predators. Inter‐guild interaction strengths did not vary with mean annual temperature, thus opposing the hypothesis that biotic interactions intensify towards the equator. We find evidence for the bottom‐up limitation of arthropod abundances via resources and abiotic factors, rather than for competition and predation.
A deep learning approach for specular highlight removal from transmissive materials
Authors: Madessa Amanuel Hirpa , Dong Junyu , Gan Yanhai , Gao Feng
Published: August 2020

The appearance of specular highlights in images is one main factor affecting accurate material or object recognition tasks. Such an appearance has a misleading effect on the true gradient information found in transmissive material images. Certain methods use specular highlights as an intrinsic feature of transparency to detect transparent objects. However, this process reduces the robustness of methods in applications with opaque and shiny materials and in the classification of tasks among related features, such as transparency and translucency. Thus, correcting this artefact can enhance texture‐ or gradient‐based image and video analyses. However, the correction of small or large regions with specular highlights from transmissive materials, such as glass, plastic and water, is complex and ambiguous. These materials are sensitive to specular highlights and exhibit high degrees of reflection. In this study, we propose a deep learning framework to address the problem. A partial convolution‐based inpainting method is integrated with automatic semantic mask generation by using a simple adaptive binarization to detect highlight spots during training and inference. The proposed framework improves the learning process by capturing the semantic nature of specular highlights. Moreover, the framework eliminates the use of image‐mask pairs during inference and avoids predefined irregular random mask training. We qualitatively and quantitatively evaluate the proposed framework by using new and existing publicly available datasets that contain specular images. Experimental results show that our framework registers competitive performance and considerably reduces computational time.
Building an expert system for printer forensics: A new printer identification model based on niching genetic algorithm
Authors: Darwish Saad M. , ELgohary Hany M.
Published: August 2020

Inside digital forensic science, expert systems are utilized to clarify suspicions where normally one or more human experts would need to be consulted. Expert systems‐based printer identification is provided with the objective of distinguishing the printer that produced a suspicious or questioned document. The arising problem is that the extraction of many features of the printed document for printer forensics sometimes increases the time and decreases the classification accuracy as many of the printed document descriptors may emanate to be recurring and non‐valuable. Therefore, the distinct combinatorial collection of features (knowledge base) will demand to be acquired in order to preserve the essence of operative features' fusion to accomplish the maximum accuracy. This paper presents a bio‐inspired expert system for printer forensics that integrates both texture features conveyed from the grey level co‐occurrence matrix of the printed letter ‘WOO’ and niching genetic search to select the good enough reduced feature set. This combination intends to realize high classification precision relies on a trivial collection of discriminative descriptors. Niching methods extend genetic algorithms to domains that require the location and maintenance of multiple solutions based on adjusting the crossover ratio and occurrence of mutation of each individual and employs the slope of the individuals to choose their mutation value. For categorization, the scheme exploits k‐nearest neighbours (KNN) to distinguish the brand of the printer for its simplicity. Results confirm that the suggested approach has high classification accuracy and needs less computation time.
Are Equity‐Promoting Paternity Leave Policies Associated With Higher Rates of Parenthood?
Authors: Feldman Karie , Gran Brian
Published: August 2020

Objective

This study aims to explore how equitable paternity leave policy may combine with other family policy to impact fertility levels.

Background

The decision to start a family is personal but takes place in the context of policies that vary in level of support. Although policies offering fathers paid leave from work are expected to promote gender equity and make family formation easier, these policies have been implemented with little evidence of effectiveness.

Method

This study uses fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis to study data from the International Labour Organization, the World Bank, and the International Leave Network to compare policies systematically across 43 countries.

Results

Employing the paternity leave equity typology, evidence suggests that high increases in fertility are found in countries where paternity leave policies promote equity in combination with other factors, or in less affluent countries where women tend to start families later and experience less paid labor market participation.

Conclusion

This research suggests that a one‐size‐fits‐all approach may not promote fertility.

Implications

In addition to equity in parental leave, policymakers should consider a range of factors that affect parents, especially women's participation in the workforce and age at first birth. Further research is needed to identify conditions in which equitable paternity leaves are most effective so policymakers can develop evidence‐based policies best suited to meeting their goals.
Active Husband Involvement During Pregnancy: A Grounded Theory
Authors: Eddy Brandon P. , Fife Stephen T.
Published: August 2020

Objective

The purpose of this grounded theory qualitative study was to build a theory describing how husband involvement during pregnancy impacts the couple relationship.

Background

The transition to parenthood presents a significant life change for couples. Although many couples experience this life cycle change, there is relatively little empirical research on how husbands can meaningfully contribute during pregnancy and how husband involvement influences the couple relationship postpartum.

Method

Eleven heterosexual, married couples were interviewed regarding husband involvement during the couple's most recent pregnancy. Data collection included separate interviews with each partner and with each couple.

Results

The results are presented in a grounded theory of active husband involvement during pregnancy and its influence on the couple relationship postpartum. Accounts from participants indicate that active husband involvement during pregnancy helps to strengthen the couple relationship postpartum. Active husband involvement consists of four interrelated ingredients: helping with a positive attitude, instrumental support, emotional support, and responding in significant moments. Couples described five distinct ways the couple relationship was enhanced by active husband involvement: increased trust, a more mature relationship, greater love, enhanced communication, and continued support. The theory also includes husbands' efforts to navigate various obstacles to active husband involvement.

Conclusion

Active husband involvement during pregnancy consists of many behaviors and leads to strengthened couple relationships postpartum.

Implications

This study highlights the need for a greater emphasis on the couple relationship during pregnancy and provides health care providers and researchers with information about how they can encourage active husband involvement during pregnancy.
Health consequences of cocaine use in France: data from the French Addictovigilance Network
Authors: Eiden Céline , Vincent Marc , Serrand Chris , Serre Anais , Richard Nathalie , Picot Marie‐Christine , Frauger Elisabeth , Fouilhé Nathalie , Daveluy Amélie , Peyrière Hélène ,   the French Addictovigilance Network (FAN)
Published: August 2020

As the number and severity of complications related to cocaine use reported to the French Addictovigilance Network have increased, the French health authorities requested a national epidemiologic study of the data collected by this network from 2010 to 2016. For this purpose, the spontaneous reports (SRs) linked to cocaine notified by health professionals were analyzed as well as the data from the pharmacoepidemiological surveys OPPIDUM (observation of illegal drugs and misuse of psychotropic medications) and DRAMES (deaths related to the abuse of licit and illicit psychoactive substances). In total, 1 265 SRs were analyzed (510% increase from 2010 to 2016). Users were mainly men (952/1 261; 75%), with a median age of 35.0 years [IQ25–75: 28–42]. Cocaine was consumed through the intranasal route by 52% of users (416/797), followed by intravenous administration (32%, 253/797) and inhalation (24%, 190/797). The use of cocaine powder and crack cocaine was reported in 70% (475/674) and 23% (154/674) of SRs, respectively. Cocaine was consumed with other psychoactive substances and alcohol in 47% (603/1265) and 60% (387/649) of cases, respectively. The main cocaine‐related complications were psychiatric complications (29%), neurologic complications (24%) and cardiovascular complications (23%). Analysis of the OPPIDUM survey data showed that in 2016, 15.9 and 2.4% of the included subjects consumed cocaine or crack cocaine the week preceding the survey, the highest rate for the 2006–2016 period. The DRAMES survey indicated that cocaine‐related deaths increased by threefold from 2014 to 2016. These data confirm that cocaine use in France is worrying with an increase in the number of severe complications and deaths.
High‐stress fatigue crack propagation in thin AA2024‐T3 sheet material
Authors: Breitbarth Eric , Strohmann Tobias , Requena Guillermo
Published: August 2020

Fatigue crack growth in 1.6‐mm‐thick sheets of aluminium alloy AA2024‐T3 was investigated under very high‐stress conditions using 950‐mm‐wide middle tension (MT) specimens. Experiments were conducted by applying uniaxial load ratios R (0.1, 0.3 and 0.5) with the maximum nominal stress of 120 MPa following conditions relevant for aircraft fuselage structures. The experiments were conducted with digital image correlation to determine loading conditions acting on the crack tip. Stable crack growth rates of up to da/dN > 4 mm/cycle and ΔK > 100 MPa√m were reached, and final crack lengths 2a > 500 mm were obtained. High‐stress intensity factors cause plastic zone sizes that extend up to approximately 100 mm from the crack tip. The da/dN‐ΔK data obtained in this study provide crucial information about the fatigue crack growth and damage tolerance of very long cracks under high‐stress conditions in thin lightweight structures.
Are CEOs incentivized to shelter good information?
Authors: Feng Hongrui , Jia Yuecheng
Published: August 2020

Prior theoretical studies on the agency problem hold different opinions from the empirical literature on two questions: (a) Are CEOs incentivized to shelter good information? (b) Are CEOs incentivized to evenly shelter good and bad information? This paper demonstrates that CEOs with high pay‐performance incentives tend to successfully shelter good information rather than bad information. Furthermore, CEOs with high pay‐performance incentives shelter good information by using real earnings management and textual manipulation but not accrual‐based earnings management. These asymmetric information manipulation behaviors help to decrease corporate cash flow volatility as well as the jump and crash risk on the stock market.
Risk factors for perioperative bleeding in percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy construction: A case series and retrospective preliminary investigation
Authors: Ota Kazuhiro , Nishida Shinya , Hara Azusa , Kawaguchi Shimpei , Harada Satoshi , Kojima Yuichi , Takeuchi Toshihisa , Higuchi Kazuhide
Published: August 2020

Objectives

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is one of the methods of tube feeding in patients who are incapable of oral intake. There are no reports on risk factors for bleeding at PEG construction. Our main objective was to investigate the risks and predictors of bleeding associated with PEG construction.

Methods

This retrospective, observational study included patients who had undergone PEG construction at our institution. To investigate the risks of bleeding associated with PEG construction, we compared the baseline characteristics between bleeding and non‐bleeding patients. In terms of early predictors of post‐PEG bleeding, we evaluated whether there had been a decrease from baseline of >10% in hemoglobin levels on the day after the procedure.

Results

The median preoperative albumin levels were 22.5 g/L (range 20–29 g/L) and 30 g/L (range 18–40 g/L) in the bleeding and non‐bleeding groups, respectively (P = 0.014, Mann–Whitney U‐test). The median preoperative platelet counts were 177 500 (range 87 000–265 000) and 271 000 (83 000–749 000) in the bleeding and non‐bleeding groups, respectively (P = 0.043, Mann–Whitney U‐test). The number of patients for whom hemoglobin levels decreased >10% from baseline on the day after the procedure differed significantly between the bleeding and non‐bleeding groups (2/4, 50% and 3/58, 5.45%), respectively (P = 0.002, Pearson's χ2‐test).

Conclusions

Low serum albumin and preoperative platelet counts might be risk factors for bleeding. Rigorous follow up is necessary for patients showing a decrease in hemoglobin level ≥10% of their baseline the day after the procedure. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2020; 20: 932–937.
Elites in transnational policy networks
Authors: HENRIKSEN LASSE FOLKE , SEABROOKE LEONARD
Published: August 2020

In this framing article for the special issue we contrast the aims and ambitions of three core approaches to elites in transnational policy networks and highlight where they have productive overlaps. The core approaches employ three distinctive theoretical lenses in their investigations: fields, hegemony, and institutions. We discuss how these approaches trace elites in transnational policymaking and associated methods, such as network analysis, sequence analysis and field theory, which highlight different aspects of how elites in transnational policy networks operate. Most of the contributions are concerned with mapping out elite careers and why career trajectories matter for field and network positions in transnational policymaking. While the contributions share this in common, we highlight the different ways in which the approaches can be used to dissect the same issues. Our contributions include pieces on the Trump administration, the professional ecologies of transnational policy elites, the treatment of transboundary political problems, the characteristics of technocratic elites, the racial and gender composition of transnational elites, and professional competition over transnational policy issues.
Comparison between lung ultrasonography and current methods for volume assessment in Asian chronic hemodialysis patients
Authors: Ngoh Clara L. Y. , Teng Hazel L. , Chua Yan T. , Leo Christopher C. H. , Wong Weng K.
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Volume assessment in end‐stage kidney disease patients on hemodialysis (HD) remains inadequate by existing methods: clinical examination, bioimpedance spectroscopy, measurement of inferior vena cava diameter by ultrasound (IVCD), and plasma B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐pro BNP). This study aims to compare the performance of lung ultrasound against existing methods for volume assessment in a HD cohort.

Methods

Two nephrologists independently performed 28‐point lung ultrasound immediately before and after midweek HD in 50 patients. Lung congestion was classified into mild, moderate, and severe categories based on lung ultrasound findings. Clinical examination for crepitations and oedema, change in hydration status (∆HS) measured by bioimpedance spectroscopy, NT‐pro BNP, IVCD during inspiration (IVCDimin), expiration (IVCDimax), and inferior vena cava collapsibility index were also assessed before and after midweek HD.

Findings

In all, 61% of patients with normohydration status by bioimpedance spectroscopy had moderate or severe lung congestion on lung ultrasound. There were significant correlations between predialysis lung ultrasound, and NT‐pro BNP (r = 0.432, P = 0.004), ∆HS (r = 0.447, P < 0.001), and IVCD parameters (P < 0.05). Some correlations weakened postdialysis (∆HS [r = 0.322, P = 0.01] and IVCDimax [r = 0.307, P = 0.03]), whereas NT‐pro BNP and ∆HS paradoxically increased in 28% and 30% of the cohort, respectively. On receiver operator curve analysis, most methods of volume assessment had limited discriminatory power to detect mild lung congestion.

Discussion

Lung ultrasound demonstrates some comparability with existing volume assessment methods in Asian dialysis patients. However, it appears more effective at detecting subclinical pulmonary congestion, and tracking fluid changes real‐time compared to bioimpedance spectroscopy and NT‐pro BNP.
Domain loss theory revisited: From multinational corporations to multicorporate nations
Authors: Sanden Guro R.
Published: August 2020

This paper examines how multinational corporations (MNCs) act as language managers when handling linguistic diversity in the workforce, for example through corporate language policies. Cooper's status, corpus and acquisition planning framework is applied to two case companies headquartered in Scandinavia, and the findings show that the MNCs' language policy and planning (LPP) activities go beyond the boundaries of the organisations, and interfere with the LPP activities of their home countries. The paper concludes that the language planning activities of MNCs may be even more important and impactful than those of the nation‐state. The term “multicorporate nations” is used to denote a shift in language management agency; a shift where the corporate level represents the new macro level and the national level the new meso level.
C‐reactive protein‐induced activated partial thromboplastin time prolongation in heparinized samples is attenuated by elevated factor VIII
Authors: Kostousov Vadim , Devaraj Sridevi , Bruzdoski Karen , Hensch Lisa , Hui Shiu‐Ki , Teruya Jun
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and antifactor Xa (anti‐Xa) activity are used to monitor unfractionated heparin therapy in children on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Elevated C‐reactive protein (CRP) can prolong aPTT and cause discrepancy between these two assays. We aimed to evaluate CRP effect on aPTT and anti‐Xa assays in the presence of heparin and to determine whether elevated CRP affects laboratory monitoring in pediatric ECMO patients.

Materials and methods

Citrated normal specimens were spiked with CRP, heparin, and recombinant factor VIII (FVIII) and followed by measurement of aPTT and anti‐Xa activity. Additionally, aPTT, anti‐Xa activity, FVIII, fibrinogen, and CRP were measured in 18 ECMO specimens.

Results

Elevated CRP prolonged aPTT in normal specimens with or without heparin, but did not affect anti‐Xa assay. In contrast, ECMO specimens showed similar aPTT and anti‐Xa values regardless of CRP level. Elevated CRP in specimens was accompanied by increased fibrinogen and FVIII activity. Additional in vitro experiments confirmed that FVIII spiked simultaneously with CRP attenuated CRP‐induced aPTT prolongation in heparinized specimens.

Conclusion

In vitro CRP‐induced aPTT prolongation is not observed in pediatric ECMO samples due to concomitant FVIII increase. Discordant changes of CRP and FVIII in plasma could contribute to aPTT/anti‐Xa discrepancies observed during heparin therapy in the pediatric population. The anti‐Xa assay is preferable for heparin monitoring in pediatric ECMO settings.