bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of BAFF gene polymorphisms in UK Graves’ disease patients
Authors: Lane Laura C. , Allinson Kathleen R. , Campbell Katy , Bhatnagar Ishita , Ingoe Lorna , Razvi Salman , Cheetham Tim , Cordell Heather J. , Pearce Simon H. , Mitchell Anna L.
Published: October 2018

Objective

B lymphocyte activating factor (BAFF), a member of the tumour necrosis factor superfamily, is essential for B cell activation, differentiation and survival. Elevated circulating BAFF levels have been found in patients with several autoimmune conditions, including Graves’ disease. In addition, BAFF gene variants have been associated with Graves’ disease in a Taiwanese cohort, and with several other autoimmune conditions in non‐Taiwanese populations.

Design and methods

We performed a case‐control association study to investigate two BAFF polymorphisms (rs9514828 and rs4000607) in a UK cohort of 444 patients with Graves’ disease. Genotype frequencies were compared to those from 447 local controls and more than 5000 healthy controls from the Wellcome Trust case‐control consortium (WTCCC2).

Results

There was a significant difference in the frequency of the AA genotype at rs4000607 between the Graves’ disease cohort and both the local controls (P = 0.045) and the WTCCC2 controls (P = 4.56 × 10−6). Furthermore, the frequency of the A allele was found to be increased in the Graves’ disease group compared to WTCCC2 controls (P = 0.02, OR 1.20 (95% CI 1.03‐1.41). No association was observed at the rs9514828 locus.

Conclusion

Dysfunction of the humoral immune system is an obligatory pathophysiological component of Graves’ disease, hence BAFF is an excellent functional candidate gene. We have demonstrated, for the first time, a significant association of the BAFF polymorphism rs4000607 with Graves’ disease in a UK cohort. Further work to elucidate the role of BAFF in the pathogenesis of Graves’ disease is now warranted.
Recombinant human BMP9 (RhBMP9) in comparison with rhBMP2 for ridge augmentation following tooth extraction: An experimental study in the Beagle dog
Authors: Saulacic Nikola , Schaller Benoit , Muñoz Fernando , Fujioka‐Kobayashi Masako , Kobayashi Eizaburo , Lang Niklaus P. , Miron Richard J.
Published: October 2018

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of rhBMP2 with rhBMP9 on ridge augmentation following healing of extraction sockets in dogs.

Material and methods

Five male Beagle dogs, approximately 12 months of age, were used. The mesial roots of the four maxillary premolars were endodontically treated. The distal roots were extracted, and the buccal bony walls removed. All extraction sockets were filled with deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM). A collagen membrane was soaked with 4 μg or 20 μg of rhBMP9, 20 μg of rhBMP2 or sterile saline and placed over the augmented sites. All animals were euthanized after 8 weeks of healing and investigated by micro‐CT and histologic analysis. A one‐way ANOVA with Tukey's HSD post hoc test was used to compare the differences between the four groups.

Results

New bone apposition in all defects was observed from the original bone. RhBMP samples showed an increase in bone formation in the buccal area and better integration of DBBM particles when compared to control sites. Both rhBMP9 defects showed higher values of bone (p = 0.024), bone marrow (p = 0.044), and total augmentation volume (p = 0.033) than the rhBMP2 (20 μg) or control sites. Highest bone area was found in rhBMP9 defects (p = 0.895).

Conclusions

Within the limitations of the present study, rhBMP9 sites demonstrated higher bone‐inducing potential in combination with DBBM than rhBMP2. While rhBMP9s failed to demonstrate a clear dose‐response relationship to the outcomes, future studies are necessary to evaluate the appropriate dose and carrier systems.
Clinical efficacy of the graft free slit‐window sinus floor elevation procedure: A 2‐year randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Ranaan Justin , Bassir Seyed Hossein , Andrada Luciano , Shamshiri Ahmad Reza , Maksoud Mohamed , Raanan Rodney , Guze Kevin
Published: October 2018

Objective

Slit‐window technique is a lateral approach sinus floor elevation (SFE) procedure that utilizes a rigid resorbable membrane in conjunction with stabilizing bony slits to tent the Schneiderian membrane without addition of grafting materials. The aim of this randomized clinical trial was to compare clinical and radiographic outcomes of the Slit‐window SFE with those of SFE with bone grafting.

Material and Methods

Thirty‐three patients with 38 edentulous sites were included. Edentulous sites were randomly allocated to the Slit‐window SFE or SFE with bone grafting. Simultaneous with SFE, each site received two dental implants. Implant stability quotient (ISQ) values were recorded at baseline and monthly visits for 8 months. The bone coverage and bone height gain at implant sites were recorded on cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans 6 and 24 months postoperatively.

Results

There were no significant differences in the mean ISQ values between the groups at any time point (p > 0.05). All implants in both groups were found to have complete bone coverage. Significant increases in the bone height were found 6 and 24 months postoperatively in both groups (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Within limitations of the present study, it can be concluded that the Slit‐window SFE technique without the need for bone grafting resulted in sufficient bone height gain around implants placed simultaneous with the SFE procedures. The bone height around these implants was stable during the 2‐year follow‐up period. The treatment outcomes for these implants were comparable to those placed simultaneous with lateral approach SFE in conjunction with bone grafting.
De novo donor‐specific HLA antibodies in heart transplantation: Do transient de novo DSA confer the same risk as persistent de novo DSA?
Authors: Moayedi Yasbanoo , Fan Chun‐Po S. , Tinckam Kathryn J. , Ross Heather J. , McCaughan Jennifer A.
Published: October 2018

Background

It is estimated that 25%‐35% of heart transplant recipients develop de novo donor‐specific antibodies (dnDSA). One factor that appears to play a role in clinical outcomes is DSA persistence. The objective of this study was to determine the incidence of transient and persistent dnDSA in a Canadian heart transplant population and to evaluate their impact on coronary allograft vasculopathy (CAV), graft function, and mortality.

Methods

A retrospective study of consecutive adult and transitioned pediatric heart transplant recipients (2008‐2015) in Toronto was performed. Clinical demographics were collected prospectively. HLA antibody testing was performed using Luminex single antigen assays. In statistical analysis, dnDSA was modeled as a time dependent covariate.

Results

During a median follow‐up of 4.1 years, dnDSA were detected in 42 (23%) with a median time to detection of 329 days (156‐740); 27 (64%) developed persistent dnDSA. Persistent dnDSA conferred an increased risk of death with a HR 4.0 (95%CI 1.4‐12.1) when adjusted recipient age, CAV, and cytomegalovirus status.

Conclusions

Transient dnDSA were not associated with adverse outcomes after heart transplantation. This suggests that transient dnDSA may not require enhanced immunosuppression, increased HLA antibody monitoring, or additional physiological assessment. By knowing the transient dnDSA status, clinicians may minimize both recipient morbidity and cost without increasing harm.
Raman spectroscopy for the preoperative diagnosis of thyroid cancer and its subtypes: An in vitro proof‐of‐concept study
Authors: O'Dea Declan , Bongiovanni Massimo , Sykiotis Gerasimos P. , Ziros Panos G. , Meade Aidan D. , Lyng Fiona M. , Malkin Alison
Published: October 2018

Objective

In 2016, there were an estimated 56 870 new cases of thyroid cancer (TC) in the USA. Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is the most safe, accurate and cost‐effective method for the initial investigation of thyroid nodules. FNAC is limited by the inability to diagnose malignancy in follicular‐patterned lesions accurately and, as a result, 20%‐30% of cases under investigation for TC are classified as cytologically indeterminate, illustrating a problem with current FNAC procedure. Raman spectroscopy has shown promising results for the detection of many cancers; however, to date there has been no report on the performance of Raman spectroscopy on thyroid cytological samples. The aim of this study was to examine whether Raman spectroscopy could be used to correctly classify cell lines representing benign thyroid cells and various subtypes of TC.

Methods

A benign thyroid cell line and seven TC cell lines were prepared as ThinPrep® cytology slides and analysed with Raman spectroscopy. Principal components analysis and linear discriminant analysis were implemented to develop effective diagnostic algorithms for classification of Raman spectra of different TC subtypes.

Results

The spectral differences separating benign and TC cell lines were assigned to differences in the composition of nucleic acids, lipids, carbohydrates and protein in the benign and cancer cells. Good sensitivities (74%‐85%), specificities (65%‐93%) and diagnostic accuracies (71%‐88%) were achieved for the identification of TC.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that Raman spectroscopy has potential for preoperative TC diagnosis on FNAC samples.
Clinical management of the status of atypical endometrial cells using the descriptive reporting format for endometrial cytology
Authors: Nomura Hidetaka , Sugiyama Yuko , Ito Takahiko , Furuta Noriyuki , Komatsu Kyoko , Takazawa Yutaka , Aoki Yoichi , Tanigawa Terumi , Matoda Maki , Okamoto Sanshiro , Kanao Hiroyuki , Omatsu Kohei , Kato Kazuyoshi , Utsugi Kuniko , Takeshima Nobuhiro
Published: October 2018

Objective

We aimed to develop and reinforce a clinical management regimen for atypical endometrial cell (ATEC) categories within the descriptive reporting format for endometrial cytology.

Methods

Between January 2013 and December 2014, 215 samples, for which histological examination was performed immediately or within 3 months after cytology, were cytologically diagnosed as ATEC. For these samples, the medical records were retrospectively reviewed to identify risk factors for malignancy.

Results

Among 152 samples diagnosed as ATEC, of undetermined significance, 19 (12.5%) were malignant. In the younger group (age <55 years), the χ2 values of body mass index (BMI) ≥25 kg/m2 (5.85), gravidity (5.64) and parity (5.15) were relatively high, suggesting that these were risk factors for malignancy. Of the nulligravida patients, those with BMI ≥25 kg/m2, 28% were diagnosed with malignant disease. In the older group (≥55 years), endometrial thickening (6.84), atypical genital bleeding (6.43) and BMI ≥25 kg/m2 (3.79) were found to be risk factors for malignancy. Of the patients with endometrial thickening and atypical genital bleeding, 67% were diagnosed with malignant disease. Among 63 samples diagnosed as ATEC, cannot exclude atypical endometrial hyperplasia or more, 35 (55.6%) samples were positive for malignancy.

Conclusions

High‐risk patients diagnosed with ATEC, of undetermined significance were identified. Endometrial biopsy should be considered for nulligravida patients aged <55 years with a BMI ≥25 kg/m2.
Bringing Elton and Grinnell together: a quantitative framework to represent the biogeography of ecological interaction networks
Authors: Gravel Dominique , Baiser Benjamin , Dunne Jennifer A. , Kopelke Jens‐Peter , Martinez Neo D. , Nyman Tommi , Poisot Timothée , Stouffer Daniel B. , Tylianakis Jason M. , Wood Spencer A. , Roslin Tomas
Published: October 2018

Biogeography has traditionally focused on the spatial distribution and abundance of species. Both are driven by the way species interact with one another, but only recently community ecologists realized the need to document their spatial and temporal variation. Here, we call for an integrated approach, adopting the view that community structure is best represented as a network of ecological interactions, and show how it translates to biogeography questions. We propose that the ecological niche should encompass the effect of the environment on species distribution (the Grinnellian dimension of the niche) and on the ecological interactions among them (the Eltonian dimension). Starting from this concept, we develop a quantitative theory to explain turnover of interactions in space and time – i.e. a novel approach to interaction distribution modeling. We apply this framework to host–parasite interactions across Europe and find that two aspects of the environment (temperature and precipitation) exert a strong imprint on species co‐occurrence, but not on species interactions. Even where species co‐occur, interaction proves to be stochastic rather than deterministic, adding to variation in realized network structure. We also find that a large majority of host‐parasite pairs are never found together, thus precluding any inferences regarding their probability to interact. This first attempt to explain variation of network structure at large spatial scales opens new perspectives at the interface of species distribution modeling and community ecology.
Effects ofFormica podzolicaant colonies on soil moisture, nitrogen, and plant communities near nests
Authors: Sankovitz Madison A. , Breed Michael D. , McCreery Helen F.
Published: October 2018

1. Ants are widely regarded as ‘ecosystem engineers’ because their nest construction and contributions to nutrient cycling change the biological, chemical, and physical properties of the soil around their nests. Despite increasing attention to ant manipulation of soil ecosystems, the extent to which many common species influence soil properties, as well as nutrient uptake and community composition of plants near nests, is still unknown.

2. This study tested hypotheses that activities of a common subalpine ant,Formica podzolica, alter soil moisture and pH, redistribute nitrogen around nests, and affect plant species abundance and ground cover.

3. A combination of field sampling techniques showed that distance from a nest had a positive relationship with soil moisture and a negative relationship with plant abundance next to and downhill from nests. Slope aspect also affected plant communities, with downhill transects having higher plant cover and above‐ground biomass than uphill transects. A stable isotope analysis did not reveal that plants near nests had enriched15N, but there were substantial differences in15N among sites.

4. Overall, this study uncovers significant impacts ofF. podzolicaon the subalpine microhabitats directly surrounding their nests.
Strong responses from weakly interacting species
Authors: Tuck Sean L. , Porter Janielle , Rees Mark , Turnbull Lindsay A.
Published: October 2018

The impact of species loss from competitive communities partly depends on how populations of the surviving species respond. Predicting the response should be straightforward using models that describe population growth as a function of competitor densities; but these models require accurate estimates of interaction strengths. Here, we quantified how well we could predict responses to competitor removal in a community of annual plants, using a combination of observation and experiment. It was straightforward to fit models to multi‐species communities, which passed standard diagnostic tests and provided apparently sensible estimates of interaction strengths. However, the models consistently underpredicted the response to competitor removal, by a factor of at least 50%. We argue that this poor predictive ability is likely to be general in plant communities due to ‘the ghost of competition present’ that confines species to parts of the environment in which they compete best.
Regulatory aspects of status epilepticus
Authors: Shorvon Simon , Trinka Eugen
Published: October 2018

In this article, we consider four aspects of the regulatory standing of status epilepticus and the difficulties these raise in relation to trials and licensing. These formed the basis of a discussion held at the 6th London?Innsbruck Colloquium on Status Epilepticus, held on April 6, 2017.
Progressive dissociation of cortical and subcortical network development in children with new‐onset juvenile myoclonic epilepsy
Authors: Garcia‐Ramos Camille , Dabbs Kevin , Lin Jack J. , Jones Jana E. , Stafstrom Carl E. , Hsu David A. , Meyerand Mary Elizabeth , Prabhakaran Vivek , Hermann Bruce P.
Published: October 2018

Objective

Structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies have consistently documented cortical and subcortical abnormalities in patients with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME). However, little is known about how these structural abnormalities emerge from the time of epilepsy onset and how network interactions between and within cortical and subcortical regions may diverge in youth with JME compared to typically developing children.

Methods

We examined prospective covariations of volumetric differences derived from high‐resolution structural MRI during the first 2 years of epilepsy diagnosis in a group of youth with JME (n = 21) compared to healthy controls (n = 22). We indexed developmental brain changes using graph theory by computing network metrics based on the correlation of the cortical and subcortical structural covariance near the time of epilepsy and 2 years later.

Results

Over 2 years, normally developing children showed modular cortical development and network integration between cortical and subcortical regions. In contrast, children with JME developed a highly correlated and less modular cortical network, which was atypically dissociated from subcortical structures. Furthermore, the JME group also presented higher clustering and lower modularity indices than controls, indicating weaker modules or communities. The local efficiency in JME was higher than controls across the majority of cortical nodes. Regarding network hubs, controls presented a higher number than youth with JME that were spread across the brain with ample representation from the different modules. In contrast, children with JME showed a lower number of hubs that were mainly from one module and comprised mostly subcortical structures.

Significance

Youth with JME prospectively developed a network of highly correlated cortical regions dissociated from subcortical structures during the first 2 years after epilepsy onset. The cortical‐subcortical network dissociation provides converging insights into the disparate literature of cortical and subcortical abnormalities found in previous studies.
Rainfall at African wintering grounds predicts age‐specific probability of haemosporidian infection in a migratory passerine bird
Authors: López‐Calderón Cosme , Hobson Keith A. , Balbontín Javier , Reviriego María I. , Magallanes Sergio , García‐Longoria Luz , Relinque Carmen , De Lope Florentino , Møller Anders P. , Marzal Alfonso
Published: October 2018

In migratory species breeding in temperate zones and wintering in tropical areas, the prevalence of blood parasites may be affected by migratory strategies and winter habitat choice. We explored whether African winter habitat was linked to the probability of haemosporidian infection in the House Martin Delichon urbicum breeding in Spain, and tested for potential differences between age‐classes. As a proxy for winter habitat features, we analysed stable isotope (δ2H, δ13C and δ15N) values of winter‐grown feathers moulted in tropical Africa. Rainfall at the African winter grounds was related to the probability of being infected with haemosporidians and this effect differed among age‐classes. We found that haemosporidian prevalence was similar for young and experienced birds wintering in habitats of higher rainfall (2H‐depleted), whereas there were great differences in winter habitats of lower rainfall (2H‐enriched), with young having a much higher prevalence compared with experienced birds. Likewise, experienced birds wintering in habitats of higher rainfall had a higher probability of haemosporidian infection compared with experienced birds wintering in habitats of lower rainfall. By contrast, young birds wintering in habitats of lower rainfall had a higher probability of haemosporidian infection compared with young birds wintering in habitats of higher rainfall. These outcomes highlight the interaction of age with haemosporidian infection in the migratory ecology of the House Martin, which may drive carry‐over effects in this long‐distance aerial insectivore.
Assessing population size and structure for Andean Condor Vultur gryphus in Bolivia using a photographic ‘capture‐recapture’ method
Authors: Méndez Diego , Marsden Stuart , Lloyd Huw
Published: October 2018

The Andean Condor Vultur gryphus is a globally threatened and declining species. Problems of surveying Andean Condor populations using traditional survey methods are particularly acute in Bolivia, largely because only few roosts are known there. However, similar to other vulture species, Andean Condors aggregate at animal carcasses, and are individually recognizable due to unique morphological characteristics (size and shape of male crests and pattern of wing coloration). This provided us with an opportunity to use a capture‐recapture (‘sighting‐resighting’) modelling framework to estimate the size and structure of an Andean Condor population in Bolivia using photographs of individuals taken at observer‐established feeding stations. Between July and December 2014, 28 feeding stations were established in five different zones throughout the eastern Andean region of Bolivia, where perched and flying Andean Condors were photographed. Between one and 57 (mean = 20.2 ± 14.6 sd) Andean Condors were recorded visiting each feeding station and we were able to identify 456 different individuals, comprising 134 adult males, 40 sub‐adult males, 79 juvenile males, 80 adult females, 30 sub‐adult females and 93 juvenile females. Open population capture‐recapture models produced population estimates ranging from 52 ± 14 (se) individuals to 678 ± 269 individuals across the five zones, giving a total of 1388 ± 413 sd individuals, which is roughly 20% of the estimated Andean Condor global population. Future trials of this method need to consider explicitly knowledge of Andean Condor movements and home‐ranges, habitat preferences when selecting suitable sites as feeding stations, juvenile movements and other behaviours. Sighting‐resighting methods have considerable potential to increase the accuracy of surveys of Andean Condors and other bird species with unique individual morphological characteristics.
Molecular‐targeted therapy in advanced renal cell carcinoma based on pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and pharmacogenetics: A proposed strategy
Authors: Tsuchiya Norihiko
Published: October 2018

In advanced renal cell carcinoma, a transition of drug therapies from cytokines to molecular‐targeted drugs and immune‐oncology drugs provides more clinical benefits to patients, while adequate management is required for various and sometimes serious adverse events. At present, the relationship between the pharmacokinetics of many drugs and their effectiveness or adverse events has been elucidated, and therapeutic drug monitoring is being applied to some immunosuppressive, anti‐epileptic and antibacterial drugs in daily clinical practice. Most of the molecular‐targeted drugs used in patients with renal cell carcinoma are orally active, and are affected by absorption and disposition, which can be different for each individual. The monitoring of the circulating drug concentration could be beneficial to patients by providing information for the adjustment of drug dose and the maintenance of a therapeutic plasma concentration range. Genetic polymorphisms are known to be involved in pharmacokinetics, and cause individual differences in clinical efficacy and adverse events. Therefore, a more scientific strategy should be used in regard to the treatment of patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma treated with molecular‐targeted drugs by accumulating evidence on pharmacodynamics and pharmacogenetics.
Intercropping fenugreek (Trigonella foenum‐graecum L.) and barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) with and without biochar: Tests along a competition gradient
Authors: Bitarafan Z. , Jensen S. M. , Liu F. , Andreasen C.
Published: October 2018

Integrating soil amendment biochar to legume‐based intercropping systems may amplify the intercropping benefits and lead to more sustainable production due to its positive effects on the soil physicochemical and biological environment. Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum‐graecum) is a legume used in an intercropping system in several countries in Southern Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. A barley cultivar and an Iranian fenugreek ecotype were studied in two replacement series experiments to find the best combination of the two species as well as the effect of adding biochar to the soil. Fenugreek and barley were grown in 4‐L pots in five density combinations (20:0, 15:5, 10:10, 5:15, 0:20) with and without application of biochar in sandy loam soil. The biomass, nitrogen (N) and carbon (C) amount of the two crops were measured fifty days after sowing, and the Relative Yield Total (RYT) was estimated. Our results showed that biochar application resulted in a higher total biomass, N and C amount in all combinations of fenugreek and barley. Total biomass was increased by biochar 19.2% when fenugreek was grown alone and 8.1 and 12.9% in series with 25 and 50% barley when biochar was added, respectively. Biochar increased dry matter, N and C accumulation in both crop species in the mixtures. An exception was the C amount of barley which was not influenced by biochar in intercropping. RYT values were largest for biomass, C and N amount in mixtures with 15 fenugreek plants per pot and 5 barley plants per pot corresponding to approximately 400 fenugreek plants per m mixed with 130 barley plants per m2. Biochar application increased RYT of the total dry weight by 2.7 and 5.5% in mixtures of 25 and 50% barley plants, RYT of the total nitrogen by 0.8% in mixtures with 25% barley plants, and RYT of the total carbon by 2.7 and 6.6% in mixtures with 25 and 50% barley plants. The RYT values declined with increasing number of barley plants as a result of a less competitive ability of fenugreek when growing in high barley densities. The yield was highest with intercropping but monoculture of barley also resulted in high yields. The total highest yield was found when approximately 130 fenugreek plants per m2 were mixed with 400 barley plants per m2. Mixtures with 75% fenugreek and 25% barley obtained RYT values larger than 1 for biomass, carbon and nitrogen percentages.
Dental hypomineralization treatment: A systematic review
Authors: da Cunha Coelho Ana Sofia Estima , Mata Pedro Carlos Machado , Lino Carolina Alves , Macho Viviana Marisa Pereira , Areias Cristina Maria Ferreira Guimarães Pereira , Norton Ana Paula Mendes Alves Peixoto , Augusto Ana Paula Coelho Macedo
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Defects in the maturation stage of amelogenesis result in a normal volume of enamel but insufficient mineralization, called hypomineralization. Molar‐incisor hypomineralization (MIH), amelogenesis imperfecta and dental fluorosis (DF) are examples of such defects.

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of the treatments applied to the different forms of dental hypomineralization.

Materials and Methods

PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Embase were screened. The research was limited to studies published in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, until May 30, 2018. The research question was formulated following the Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome strategy. The quality of the methodology of each article was evaluated employing the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews.

Results

From the initial research, 7895 references were obtained, of which 33 were included in the systematic review. The following treatments were reported: desensitizing and remineralizing products, resin infiltration, restorations, fissure sealants, tooth bleaching, enamel microabrasion and calcium, and vitamins supplements.

Conclusions

Although the results are suggestive, there is a clear need for a greater uniformity of the methodologies, thus allowing for the development of clinical guidelines. Nevertheless, it was possible to identify several effective treatments for teeth with MIH (arginine pastes or fluoride varnishes) and DF (tooth bleaching and/or enamel microabrasion).

Clinical Significance

Because MIH, amelogenesis imperfecta, and DF are commonly seen in dental daily practice, it is extremely important to analyze the literature regarding its treatment.
Influence of steam condensation on vitamin C retention in green turnip undergoing low pressure superheated steam drying
Authors: Liu Jianbo , Xu Qing , Shi Yapeng , Wang Ruifang , Li Zhanyong
Published: October 2018

In this article, green turnip discs were dried in low pressure superheated steam for high vitamin C retention. Drying kinetics and vitamin C variation in green turnip was studied at 95 mbar in superheated steam from 75 to 90 °C, considering the influence of steam condensation on the retention of vitamin C. It was found that an amount of vitamin C was transferred in the condensate water during drying process, especially in the constant evaporation period. Due to steam condensation and assistant electrical heating, the material surface temperature was higher than the water boiling point temperature at corresponding environment pressure when superheated steam stopped condensing. The condensate occurred in material surface could enhance the loss of vitamin C in green turnip. Vacuum preheating could reduce the amount of steam condensation and material temperature rise, and hence the vitamin C retention in green turnip was higher than that in continuous superheated steam drying.

Practical applications

Green turnip is a nutritional, economical and healthy plant, which contains various nutrients such as carotene, ascorbic acid, protein, etc. Dried green turnip has been used as a resource of food seasoning and pickled foods. Fresh green turnip having relatively high moisture contents is very sensitive to microbial spoilage. Drying is one of the most common methods used for green turnip preservation. LPSSD is an innovative technology and which has been applied for dehydration of biological materials due to high nutrients retention, better product appearance, and energy efficiency. Low pressure superheated steam drying process has an initial steam condensation period, transferring an amount of latent heat to the material. It has been demonstrated that steam condensation on sample surface have some influence on material quality. Understanding the effect of condensation on vitamin C retention in green turnip is helpful for improving the quality of dried green turnip slices.
Magnetic compression anastomosis for biliojejunostomy and pancreaticojejunostomy in Whipple's procedure: An initial clinical study
Authors: Liu Xue‐Min , Li Yu , Xiang Jun‐Xi , Ma Feng , Lu Qiang , Guo Yan‐Guang , Yan Xiao‐Peng , Wang Bo , Zhang Xu‐Feng , Lv Yi
Published: October 2018

Background and Aim

Magnetic anastomosis has been attempted in biliary and intestinal reconstruction. The objective of the current study was to introduce an initial clinical use of magnetic compression anastomosis for pancreaticojejunostomy and biliojejunostomy in Whipple's procedure.

Methods

Patients with peri‐ampullary carcinoma and dilated bile and pancreatic ducts were prospectively enrolled from 2016 to 2017. After pancreaticoduodenectomy, an appropriate mother magnet and drainage tube was placed in the proximal bile duct and pancreatic duct. The daughter magnets were introduced to mate with the mother magnets at the anastomotic sites. A close postoperative surveillance and routine cholangiopancreaticography via the drainage tube were performed.

Results

One female and three male patients with a median age of 69 years (range, 57–77) were included. The diameter of the common bile ducts and pancreatic ducts ranged from 8 to 15 mm, and 7 to 10 mm, respectively. The median time duration for biliojejunostomy and pancreaticojejunostomy was 7 (range, 5–8 min) min and 9 (range, 8–10 min) min, respectively. The median time of biliojejunostomy and pancreaticojejunostomy formation was 17 (range, 15–21 days) days and 11 (range, 10–18 days), respectively. With a median follow up of 313 days, one patient developed biliary anastomotic stricture at 11 months after surgery, and underwent stent placement via percutaneous transhepatic drainage sinus, and recovered well.

Conclusions

Magnetic anastomosis is safe, effective, and simple for both biliojejunostomy and pancreaticojejunostomy in Whipple's procedure.
Comparison of sampling methods for profiling cervicovaginal microbiome in rhesus macaques
Authors: Schmidt Brian A. , Phillips Ronald , Rolston Matthew , Raeman Reben , Iyer Smita S.
Published: October 2018

Cervicovaginal bacteria cause inflammation which in turn increases HIV risk. Profiling the cervicovaginal microbiome, therefore, is instrumental for vaccine development. We show that the microbiome profile captured by cervicovaginal lavage is comparable to samples obtained by vaginal swabs. Thus, lavage may serve as a sampling strategy in NHP vaccine studies.
Academic achievement and employment in young adults with end‐stage kidney disease
Authors: Murray Peter D. , Brodermann Maximillian H. , Gralla Jane , Wiseman Alexander C. , Harden Paul N.
Published: October 2018

Background

Young adults with end‐stage kidney disease (ESKD) are at a pivotal stage of life: progressing through education, seeking employment and developing relationships. We set out to explore how ESKD impacts education and employment attainment in a matched UK and USA patient cohort. Moreover, we aimed to determine if there were significant differences in reported perceptions of impact.

Design

A mixed methods design combining previously validated quantitative questionnaire surveys and qualitative semi‐structured interviews.

Participants

Young people with ESKD aged 18–30 years (N = 27), attending single‐centre follow‐up in Oxford, UK were matched with 27 comparable young people aged 19–30 years, under follow‐up in Denver, USA. Twelve of these patients from Denver were selected for interview.

Measurements

Self‐report questionnaires surveyed patient demographics, educational and employment achievement and experiences. Questionnaire categorical data for matched pairs were analysed using Bowker's test of symmetry. Sequential flow analyses of interview content delineated perception patterns through thematic coding.

Results

Sixty percent of non‐student Oxford participants were employed compared with 41% in Denver (p = 0.023). Forty‐four percent of Oxford patients compared with 52% in Denver, reported illness had made it difficult to gain employment (p = 0.88). In Oxford, 32% completed high school as their highest educational achievement, versus 68% in Denver (p = 0.22). Qualitative themes included fatigue, self‐esteem loss, social isolation and low mood. The impact of dialysis and poor understanding from educators/employers resulted in lost work time, and/or limited educational attainment.

Conclusion

ESKD profoundly impacts on education and employment of young adults in the United States and United Kingdom, generating substantial barriers. Poor understanding appears prevalent amongst educators and employers. Healthcare providers must recognise these problems and invest resources towards tailored support in order to improve associated psychosocial and clinical outcomes.
Gonyaulax whaseongensis sp. nov. (Gonyaulacales, Dinophyceae), a new phototrophic species from Korean coastal waters
Authors: Lim An Suk , Jeong Hae Jin , Kwon Ji Eun , Lee Sung Yeon , Kim Ji Hye
Published: October 2018

The planktonic phototrophic dinoflagellate Gonyaulax whaseongensis sp. nov., isolated from coastal waters of western Korea, was described from living and fixed cells under light and scanning electron microscopy, and its rDNA was sequenced. Gonyaulax whaseongensis had a plate formula of 2pr, 4′, 6′′, 6c, 6′′′, 1p, and 1′′′′ with S‐type ventral organization like the other species in the genus. However, this dinoflagellate had a narrow cingulum (ca. 2.6 μm), small displacement of the cingulum, slight overhang and steep angle between the ends of the cingulum, quadrangular sixth precingular plate, reticulated cell surface without longitudinal lines or ridges, and two unequal antapical spines, together which distinguish this from all other reported Gonyaulax species. In addition, the SSU and LSU rDNA sequences were 8%–12% and 11%–24%, respectively, different from those of Gonyaulax polygramma, Gonyaulax spinifera, Gonyaulax fragilis, Gonyaulax membranacea, and Gonyaulax digitale, the putatively closest related species in the phylogenetic analysis.
From Performativity to Representation as Intervention: Rethinking the 2008 Financial Crisis and the Recent History of Social Science
Authors: Curran Dean
Published: October 2018

Performativity has been one of the most dynamic research programmes in the last few decades that has sought to move beyond conventional, positivistic understandings of science. This paper interrogates the central premise of performativity – that science makes rather than describes its phenomena – through a critical analysis of the hugely influential performativity turn in economic sociology. The paper argues that while the performativity turn has importantly highlighted how economic theory shapes economic practices, its conflation of economic theory and its objects of analysis renders it unable to recognize economic processes that are not identified by economic models themselves. To address this limitation, this paper then proposes an alternative account, representation as intervention, that retains the critical impulse of exploring how economic models reshape economic life without conflating theories and their objects.
Applicability of Sepsis‐3 criteria and quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment in patients with cirrhosis hospitalised for bacterial infections
Authors: Augustinho Fernanda C. , Zocche Tamara L. , Borgonovo Ariane , Maggi Dariana C. , Rateke Elayne C. M. , Matiollo Camila , Dantas-Correa Esther B. , Narciso‐Schiavon Janaína L. , Schiavon Leonardo L.
Published: October 2018

Background & Aims

An algorithm including Sepsis‐3 criteria and quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (qSOFA) was recently proposed to predict severity of infection in cirrhosis. However, its applicability among patients without a baseline SOFA available for Sepsis‐3 definition is unknown. We sought to investigate the applicability and prognostic value of qSOFA and Sepsis‐3 criteria in patients with cirrhosis hospitalised for bacterial infections, without pre‐hospitalisation SOFA.

Methods

In this cohort study, 164 patients were followed up to 30 days. Data collection, including the prognostic models, was performed at admission and at day‐3.

Results

All patients fulfilled Sepsis‐3 criteria (admission SOFA ≥ 2) and, therefore, admission Sepsis‐3 was not included in further analysis. Admission qSOFA was an independent predictor of survival (HR = 2.271, P = 0.015). For patients initially classified as high risk by qSOFA, Chronic Liver Failure ‐ Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (CLIF‐SOFA) was the only prognostic predictor. Among patients initially classified as low risk by qSOFA, the following parameters evaluated at day‐3 were independent predictors of survival: qSOFA, acute‐on‐chronic liver failure, and Child‐Pugh classification. Although not independently related to survival, Sepsis‐3 criteria at day‐3 was associated with lower 30‐day survival in Kaplan‐Meier analysis (66% vs 85%, P = 0.008). However, prognosis was better predicted by day‐3 qSOFA, with 30‐day Kaplan‐Meier survival probability of 88% when qSOFA < 2 and 24% among those with qSOFA ≥ 2.

Conclusion

Sepsis‐3 criteria evaluated at admission are very limited in infected patients with cirrhosis without baseline SOFA. qSOFA was independently related to survival and appears to be a valuable tool for determining severity of infection and to follow patients initially classified as low risk.
Invasive fungal infections amongst patients with acute‐on‐chronic liver failure at high risk for fungal infections
Authors: Verma Nipun , Singh Shreya , Taneja Sunil , Duseja Ajay , Singh Virendra , Dhiman Radha K. , Chakrabarti Arunaloke , Chawla Yogesh K.
Published: October 2018

Aims

To study the prevalence, risk factors, role of serum biomarkers for diagnosis and impact of invasive fungal infections (IFIs) in patients with acute‐on‐chronic liver failure (ACLF).

Methods

An analysis of IFI in patients with ACLF (EASL criteria) was conducted retrospectively. The diagnosis of IFI in clinically suspected patients was based on EORTC/MSG criteria. The demographical, clinical, laboratory details and outcomes were analysed.

Results

Out of 264 patients with ACLF, 54 (20.4%) patients with suspicion of IFI were evaluated and IFI was diagnosed in 39 (14.7%). Invasive candidiasis was documented in 25 (64.1%) and invasive aspergillosis in 14 (35.8%). The most common source of infection was respiratory (n = 13) followed by renal (n = 7) and spontaneous fungal peritonitis (n = 6). On univariate analysis, diabetes mellitus, hemodialysis, prior antibiotic use, cerebral and respiratory organ failures, Chronic Liver Failure Consortium (CLIF‐OF and CLIF‐C ACLF) scores were predictors for development of IFI (P < 0.05). On multivariate analysis, hemodialysis and prior antibiotics use predicted the development of IFI (P < 0.05). Non‐survivors were more likely to have IFI (P = 0.029), high CLIF‐OF and CLIF‐C ACLF scores (P < 0.001; for both) and higher 1,3‐β D Glucan (BDG) levels (P = 0.009). The sensitivity, specificity, and AUROC of BDG (80 pg/mL) and Galactomannan index (GMI [0.5]) for diagnosing IFI were 97.4%, 60%, 0.770% and 43.6%, 100%, 0.745 respectively.

Conclusions

Invasive fungal infections constitutes an important cause of mortality in ACLF patients. BDG and GMI can be useful markers to guide antifungal therapy in patients at high risk for IFI.
Trading algorithms with learning in latent alpha models
Authors: Casgrain Philippe , Jaimungal Sebastian
Published: October 2018

Alpha signals for statistical arbitrage strategies are often driven by latent factors. This paper analyzes how to optimally trade with latent factors that cause prices to jump and diffuse. Moreover, we account for the effect of the trader's actions on quoted prices and the prices they receive from trading. Under fairly general assumptions, we demonstrate how the trader can learn the posterior distribution over the latent states, and explicitly solve the latent optimal trading problem. We provide a verification theorem, and a methodology for calibrating the model by deriving a variation of the expectation–maximization algorithm. To illustrate the efficacy of the optimal strategy, we demonstrate its performance through simulations and compare it to strategies that ignore learning in the latent factors. We also provide calibration results for a particular model using Intel Corporation stock as an example.
Resident and attending perceptions of direct observation in internal medicine: a qualitative study
Authors: Gauthier Stephen , Melvin Lindsay , Mylopoulos Maria , Abdullah Nadine
Published: October 2018

Objectives

Direct observation is the foundation of assessment and learning in competency‐based medical education (CBME). Despite its importance, there is significant uncertainty about how to effectively implement frequent and high‐quality direct observation. This is particularly true in specialties where observation of non‐procedural skills is highly valued and presents unique challenges. It is therefore important to understand perceptions of direct observation to ensure successful acceptance and implementation. In this study, we explored perceptions of direct observation in internal medicine.

Methods

We interviewed internal medicine attending physicians (n = 9) and residents (n = 8) at the University of Toronto, purposively sampled for diversity. Using a constructivist grounded theory approach, constant comparative analysis was performed to develop a framework to understand perceptions of direct observation on the clinical teaching units.

Results

Participants articulated a narrow perception of what constitutes direct observation, in contrast to their own descriptions of skills that were observed. This resulted in the perception that certain valuable skills that participants felt were routinely observed were nonetheless not ‘directly observable’, such as clinical reasoning, observed through case presentations and patient care discussions. Differentiating direct observation from informal observation led to overestimation of the time and resource requirements needed to enhance direct observation, which contributed to scepticism and lack of engagement related to CBME implementation.

Conclusions

In an internal medicine training programme, perceptions of what constitutes direct observation can lead to under‐recognition and hinder acceptance in workplace‐based assessment and learning. Our results suggest a reframing of ‘direct observation’ for residents and attending physicians, by explicitly identifying desired skills in non‐procedurally‐based specialties. These findings may help CBME‐based training programmes improve the process of direct observation, leading to enhanced assessment and learning.
Estimating morphometric attributes of baleen whales with photogrammetry from small UASs: A case study with blue and gray whales
Authors: Burnett Jonathan D. , Lemos Leila , Barlow Dawn , Wing Michael G. , Chandler Todd , Torres Leigh G.
Published: October 2018

Small unmanned aircraft systems (sUASs) are fostering novel approaches to marine mammal research, including baleen whale photogrammetry, by providing new observational perspectives. We collected vertical images of 89 gray and 6 blue whales using low cost sUASs to examine the accuracy of image based morphometry. Moreover, measurements from 192 images of a 1 m calibration object were used to examine four different scaling correction models. Results indicate that a linear mixed model including an error term for flight and date contained 0.17 m less error and 0.25 m less bias than no correction. We used the propagation uncertainty law to examine error contributions from scaling and image measurement (digitization) to determine that digitization accounted for 97% of total variance. Additionally, we present a new whale body size metric termed Body Area Index (BAI). BAI is scale invariant and is independent of body length (R2 = 0.11), enabling comparisons of body size within and among populations, and over time. With this study we present a three program analysis suite that measures baleen whales and compensates for lens distortion and corrects scaling error to produce 11 morphometric attributes from sUAS imagery. The program is freely available and is expected to improve processing efficiency and analytical continuity.