bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Behaviour and emotions of children and young people with congenital heart disease: A literature review
Authors: Dahlawi Nada , Milnes Linda Jane , Swallow Veronica
Published: October 2019

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is one of the common types of birth defects. Children and young people (CYP) with CHD might exhibit behavioural and emotional changes related to undergoing different medical treatments and hospitalization. Therefore, a literature review was conducted from January 2000 to June 2017 that aimed to understand and evaluate current international literature focusing on CYP’s behavioural and emotional status as patients with CHD. A comprehensive search of Medline, PsycINFO and CINAHL databases was undertaken. Eight quantitative studies were reviewed following strict eligibility criteria. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) was used to assess the quality of the reviewed studies. Parents provided proxy reports on their children’s behaviour and emotions in all studies. Half of the reviewed studies presented the self-perceptions of children who were over seven years old. CYP with CHD exhibited internalizing and externalizing behavioural problems, withdrawal, depression, social, and attention problems. CYP with more severe CHD reported greater behavioural and emotional problems than CYP with less severe CHD. Moreover, younger children developed more problems than older children. Future more depth research using qualitative designs is required to explore the personal views of children younger than seven years old on the impact of CHD on their behaviour and emotions.
Highlighting the rules between diagnosis types and laboratory diagnostic tests for patients of an emergency department: Use of association rule mining
Authors: Sarıyer Görkem , Öcal Taşar Ceren
Published: October 2019

Diagnostic tests are widely used in emergency departments to make detailed investigations on diagnosis and treat patients correctly. However, since these tests are expensive and time-consuming, ordering correct tests for patients is crucial for efficient use of hospital resources. Thus, understanding the relation between diagnosis and diagnostic test requirement becomes an important issue in emergency departments. Association rule mining was used to extract hidden patterns and relation between diagnosis and diagnostic test requirement in real-life medical data received from an emergency department. Apriori was used as an association rule mining algorithm. Diagnosis was grouped into 21 categories based on International Classification of Disease, and laboratory tests were grouped into four main categories (hemogram, biochemistry, cardiac enzyme, urine and human excrement related). Both positive and negative rules were discovered. Since the nature of the data had the dominance of negative values, higher number of negative rules with higher confidences were discovered compared to positive ones. The extracted rules were validated by emergency department experts and practitioners. It was concluded that understanding the association between patient’s diagnosis and diagnostic test requirement can improve decision-making and efficient use of resources in emergency departments. Association rules can also be used for supporting physicians to treat patients.
A machine learning–based 1-year mortality prediction model after hospital discharge for clinical patients with acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Sherazi Syed Waseem Abbas , Jeong Yu Jun , Jae Moon Hyun , Bae Jang-Whan , Lee Jong Yun
Published: October 2019

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death worldwide so, early prediction and diagnosis of cardiovascular disease is essential for patients affected by this fatal disease. The goal of this article is to propose a machine learning–based 1-year mortality prediction model after discharge in clinical patients with acute coronary syndrome. We used the Korea Acute Myocardial Infarction Registry data set, a cardiovascular disease database registered in 52 hospitals in Korea for 1 November 2005–30 January 2008 and selected 10,813 subjects with 1-year follow-up traceability. The ranges of hyperparameters to find the best prediction model were selected from four different machine learning models. Then, we generated each machine learning–based mortality prediction model with hyperparameters completed the range fitness via grid search using training data and was evaluated by fourfold stratified cross-validation. The best prediction model with the highest performance was found, and its hyperparameters were extracted. Finally, we compared the performance of machine learning–based mortality prediction models with GRACE in area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, precision, recall, accuracy, and F-score. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve in applied machine learning algorithms was averagely improved up to 0.08 than in GRACE, and their major prognostic factors were different. This implementation would be beneficial for prediction and early detection of major adverse cardiovascular events in acute coronary syndrome patients.
Association of psychological flexibility with engagement in pulmonary rehabilitation following an acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Fernandes-James Caroline , Graham Christopher D , Batterham Alan M , Harrison Samantha L
Published: October 2019

This study aimed to investigate (a) the association between psychological flexibility and engagement in pulmonary rehabilitation within 8 weeks following hospitalisation for an acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) and (b) how psychological (in)flexibility presents in this context. A mixed-methods study was conducted. Psychological flexibility during an AECOPD was assessed using The Acceptance and Action Questionnaire-II (AAQ-II) ( n = 41) and the Engaged Living Scale (ELS) ( n = 40). Engagement in post-AECOPD pulmonary rehabilitation was then recorded. Twenty-three patients also participated in cognitive interviews. Psychological flexibility was associated with a greater chance of accepting a pulmonary rehabilitation referral following an AECOPD. Small numbers prohibited analysis on attendance or completion. An AAQ-II score of 11 translated to a 60 (37–82)% probability of accepting a referral to pulmonary rehabilitation and an ELS score of 73 was associated with a 68 (46–91)% probability of accepting. Four themes were extracted from interviews: (1) family values, (2) self as abnormal, (3) ‘can’t do anything’ versus ‘I do what I can’ and (4) disability, and related emotions, as barriers to action. Randomised clinical trials are needed to evaluate interventions designed to increase psychological flexibility (i.e. acceptance and commitment therapy) to support acceptance of pulmonary rehabilitation post-AECOPD.
Long non-coding RNA XIST expression as a prognostic factor in human cancers: A meta-analysis
Authors: Yin Shuai , Dou Jiayu , Yang Guifang , Chen Fangfang
Published: October 2019

A large number of literature has shown that high expression of X inactive-specific transcript (XIST) is associated with poor prognosis and metastasis of cancer in patients. However, most of this literature is limited by the small sample sizes and discrete outcomes. Therefore, a meta-analysis was performed to investigate the relation between XIST expression and tumor node metastasis (TNM) stage, lymph node metastasis, distant metastasis, and overall survival of cancer patients. We searched for literature in PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science. The pooled hazard ratios (HRs) or odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to evaluate the association of XIST expression with prognosis and clinicopathological characteristics of cancer patients. Finally, a total of 14 articles involving 1123 patients were included in this meta-analysis. The results suggested that high expression of XIST has a significant relationship with a relatively poor overall survival for patients with malignant tumors (HR 1.82; 95% CI 1.32, 2.52; P = 0.0003). Moreover, high expression of XIST was significantly associated with poor TNM stage (OR 3.64; 95% CI 2.62, 5.07; P < 0.0001), lymph node metastasis (OR 2.39; 95% CI 1.65, 3.46; P < 0.0001) and distant metastasis (OR 2.84; 95% CI 1.90, 4.23; P < 0.0001). In conclusion, high expression of lncRNA XIST may be a predictive factor of poor prognosis in human cancers.
Perioperative fasting: A review
Authors: Dorrance Mark , Copp Michael
Published: October 2019

Preprocedural/preoperative fasting is a key part of preparing a patient for undergoing sedation or anaesthesia to minimise the risk of pulmonary aspiration of gastric contents. As part of caring for elective surgical patients it is important that healthcare staff in the perioperative environment have a good understanding of both the current guidelines and underpinning evidence so that they can effectively manage preoperative patients. This article looks to summarise the latest guidelines regarding perioperative fasting for adult and paediatric patients, the underlying evidence behind these guidelines and finally review current literature which will inform future practice. This article therefore looks to reinforce best practice, to ensure that the safety and comfort of patients in the perioperative period is optimised.
Lipidomic characterization of extracellular vesicles in human serum
Authors: Chen Suming , Datta-Chaudhuri Amrita , Deme Pragney , Dickens Alex , Dastgheyb Raha , Bhargava Pavan , Bi Honghao , Haughey Norman J
Published: October 2019

There is a wide variety of extracellular vesicles (EVs) that differ in size and cargo composition. EVs isolated from human plasma or serum carry lipid, protein, and RNA cargo that provides insights to the regulation of normal physiological processes, and to pathological states. Specific populations of EVs have been proposed to contain protein and RNA cargo that are biomarkers for neurologic and systemic diseases. Although there is a considerable amount of evidence that circulating lipids are biomarkers for multiple disease states, it not clear if these lipid biomarkers are enriched in EVs, or if specific populations of EVs are enriched for particular classes of lipid. A highly reproducible workflow for the analysis of lipid content in EVs isolated from human plasma or serum would facilitate this area of research. Here we optimized an MS/MSALL workflow for the untargeted analysis of the lipid content in EVs isolated from human serum. A simple sequential ultracentrifugation protocol isolated three distinct types of serum EVs that were identified based on size, targeted protein, and untargeted lipidomic analyses. EVs in the upper and middle fractions were approximately 140 nm in diameter, while EVs in the pellet were approximately 110 nm in diameter. EVs in the upper most buoyant fractions contained the highest concentration of lipids, were enriched with phospholipids, and immunopositive for the cytoskeletal markers actin, α-actinin, and the mitochondrial protein mitofillin, but negative for the typical EV markers CD63, TSG101, and flotillin. A central fraction of EVs was devoid of cytoskeletal and mitochondrial markers, and positive for CD63, and TSG101, but negative for flotillin. The EV pellet contained no cytoskeletal or mitochondrial markers, but was positive for CD63, TSG101, and flotillin. The EV pellet contained the lowest concentration of most lipids, but was enriched with ceramide. These results provided new insights into the lipid composition of EVs isolated from serum using a simple ultracentrifugation isolation method suitable for lipidomic analysis by mass spectrometry.
Moments of friction in virtual reality: How feeling histories impact experience
Authors: Hollett Ty , Luo Siyuan , Turcotte Nate , Ramsay Crystal , Stubbs Chris , Zidik Zac
Published: October 2019

This article examines embodied interaction in a virtual reality learning environment. Studies of embodied interaction in immersive learning environments, like virtual reality, tend to treat all bodies the same without considering the nuanced cultural histories those bodies have with being mobile, especially within—and beyond—technology-mediated environments. In response, this study pivots from perspectives on embodied interaction that underscore the inextricable link between mind and body in favor of sociocultural perspectives to embodiment that emphasize the cultural-historical production of embodied interaction across space and over time. Through multimodal analysis of 10 learners’ experiences in a virtual reality experience called Thought for Food, this article contributes (1) an overt focus on the importance of feeling histories—embodied ways of sensing, feeling, and moving within digital environments—of learners engaging in virtual reality environments in order to promote equitable learning opportunities and (2) argues for future designs that are attuned to frictions—contestations between bodies and interfaces—that potentially collide with learners’ feeling histories.
The aquatic as elemental excess
Authors: Anderson Jon
Published: October 2019

Broadly welcoming Peters and Steinberg’s ongoing contributions to moving human geography away from the landlocked, this paper emphasises the importance of repurposing the modern language of hydrology to not only move beyond land versus ocean dichotomies, but also resist the urge to dissolve all hydro-worlds into the excessive ocean. The paper argues for defining particular aquatic spaces through their composition by assembled elemental and extraterrestrial features and forces.
Theoretical Model and Experimental Research on Friction and Torque Characteristics of Hydro-viscous Drive in Mixed Friction Stage
Authors: Cui Hongwei , Wang Qiliang , Lian Zisheng , Li Long
Published: October 2019

The hydro-viscous drive (HVD) has been widely used in fan transmission in vehicles, fans, and scraper conveyors for step-less speed regulation or soft starting. In the mixed friction stage, the contact, friction, and torque characteristics of friction pairs are very complex and change at any time. The characteristics of the frictional and hydrodynamic lubrication states were studied in order to calculate and predict the friction and torque characteristics of the friction pairs in the mixed friction stage. The fluid torque was calculated by applying the average shear stress model and the load-carrying capacity of asperity was determined on the basis of the fractal contact theory. In addition, the contact friction coefficient of the friction pairs was taken into consideration and measured by using the MM1000-III friction and wear testing machine. The asperity friction torque and total torque in the mixed friction stage were obtained and finally, the test rig for the torque characteristics was set up. The results show that the contribution to the total torque is shared by the oil film and the asperity friction. The friction coefficient decreases sharply at first and then increases with a change in the relative rotational speed, following the Stribeck curve closely, and the contact frictional coefficient slowly decreases with increase in the pressure between the friction pairs. The torque between the friction pairs is provided by the asperity friction, and the torque due to the oil film reduces to zero. When the thickness of the oil film is small, a major contribution to the total torque is due to the asperity friction. The total torque also increases with the decrease in the film thickness ratio. Therefore, by theoretical analysis and experimental verification, the torque of the friction pairs in the mixed friction stage can be accurately calculated using the average shear stress model and asperity friction torque model.
PGM5 is a promising biomarker and may predict the prognosis of colorectal cancer patients
Authors: Sun Yifan , Long Haihua , Sun Lin , Sun Xiujuan , Pang Liping , Chen Jianlin , Yi Qingqun , Liang Tianwei , Shen Yongqi
Published: October 2019

Background

Phosphoglucomutase (PGM), a key enzyme in the metabolism of glucose-1-phosphate and glucose-6-phosphate, has been found to be associated with proliferation, invasion, and metastasis of cancer. However, the expression and function of PGM5 in colorectal cancer (CRC) remains unknown.

Methods

We tested PGM5 mRNA and protein expression levels in 79 CRC tissue and their matched adjacent tissue samples by qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry, respectively. Overall survival (OS) was estimated with the Kaplan–Meier method and compared between groups with the log-rank test. We performed multivariable Cox regression analyses to identify factors associated with CRC risk. The cell proliferation, migration and invasion abilities of CRC cells were detected by using CCK-8, Transwell migration and invasion assays, respectively.

Results

The PGM5 protein levels expression in CRC tissues were significantly lower than those in the adjacent tissues (t = 5.035,P < 0.001), and Kaplan–Meier analysis indicated that low PGM5 expression were significantly associated with poor overall survival (P = 0.0069). Univariate and multivariate analyses demonstrated that PGM5 was an independent risk factor for overall survival (hazard ratio = 0.3951,P = 0.014). PGM5 overexpression significantly inhibited the proliferation, invasion and migration abilities of CRC cells. On the contrary, knockdown of PGM5 promotes the invasion and migration of CRC cells.

Conclusions

PMG5 regulates proliferation, invasion, and migration in the CRC and decreased PGM5 is associated with poor prognosis. Therefore, PGM5 is a promising biomarker in CRC and decreased PGM5 may predict poor overall survival in patients with CRC.
Development of the Australian Cancer Atlas: spatial modelling, visualisation, and reporting of estimates
Authors: Duncan Earl W. , Cramb Susanna M. , Aitken Joanne F. , Mengersen Kerrie L. , Baade Peter D.
Published: October 2019

Background

It is well known that the burden caused by cancer can vary geographically, which may relate to differences in health, economics or lifestyle. However, to date, there was no comprehensive picture of how the cancer burden, measured by cancer incidence and survival, varied by small geographical area across Australia.

Methods

The Atlas consists of 2148 Statistical Areas level 2 across Australia defined by the Australian Statistical Geography Standard which provide the best compromise between small population and small area. Cancer burden was estimated for males, females, and persons separately, with 50 unique sex-specific (males, females, all persons) cancer types analysed. Incidence and relative survival were modelled with Bayesian spatial models using the Leroux prior which was carefully selected to provide adequate spatial smoothing while reflecting genuine geographic variation. Markov Chain Monte Carlo estimation was used because it facilitates quantifying the uncertainty of the posterior estimates numerically and visually.

Results

The results of the statistical model and visualisation development were published through the release of the Australian Cancer Atlas (https://atlas.cancer.org.au) in September, 2018. The Australian Cancer Atlas provides the first freely available, digital, interactive picture of cancer incidence and survival at the small geographical level across Australia with a focus on incorporating uncertainty, while also providing the tools necessary for accurate estimation and appropriate interpretation and decision making.

Conclusions

The success of the Atlas will be measured by how widely it is used by key stakeholders to guide research and inform decision making. It is hoped that the Atlas and the methodology behind it motivates new research opportunities that lead to improvements in our understanding of the geographical patterns of cancer burden, possible causes or risk factors, and the reasons for differences in variation between cancer types, both within Australia and globally. Future versions of the Atlas are planned to include new data sources to include indicators such as cancer screening and treatment, and extensions to the statistical methods to incorporate changes in geographical patterns over time.
Circulating DNA as prognostic biomarker in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: a translational exploratory study from the SORAMIC trial
Authors: Alunni-Fabbroni Marianna , Rönsch Kerstin , Huber Thomas , Cyran Clemens C. , Seidensticker Max , Mayerle Julia , Pech Maciej , Basu Bristi , Verslype Chris , Benckert Julia , Malfertheiner Peter , Ricke Jens
Published: October 2019

Background

Liquid biopsy based on cell-free DNA circulating in plasma has shown solid results as a non-invasive biomarker. In the present study we evaluated the utility of circulating free DNA (cfDNA) and the sub-type tumor DNA (ctDNA) in hepatocellular cancer (HCC) patients to assess therapy response and clinical outcome.

Methods

A cohort of 13 patients recruited in the context of the SORAMIC trial with unresectable, advanced HCC and different etiological and clinicopathological characteristics was included in this exploratory study. Plasma samples were collected between liver micro-intervention and beginning of sorafenib-based systemic therapy and then in correspondence of three additional follow-ups. DNA was isolated from plasma and next generation sequencing (NGS) was performed on a panel of 597 selected cancer-relevant genes.

Results

cfDNA levels showed a significant correlation with the presence of metastases and survival. In addition cfDNA kinetic over time revealed a trend with the clinical history of the patients, supporting its use as a biomarker to monitor therapy. NGS-based analysis on ctDNA identified 28 variants, detectable in different combinations at the different time points. Among the variants, HNF1A, BAX and CYP2B6 genes showed the highest mutation frequency and a significant association with the patients’ clinicopathological characteristics, suggesting a possible role as driver genes in this specific clinical setting.

Conclusions

Taken together, the results support the prognostic value of cfDNA/ctDNA in advanced HCC patients with the potential to predict therapy response. These findings support the clinical utility of liquid biopsy in advanced HCC improving individualized therapy and possible earlier identification of treatment responders.
Two novel UPLC methods utilizing two different analytical columns and different detection approaches for the simultaneous analysis of velpatasvir and sofosbuvir: application to their co-formulated tablet
Authors: Moustapha Moustapha Eid , El-Gamal Rania Mohamed , Belal Fathalla Fathalla
Published: October 2019

In the present study two different RSLC columns, Acclaim RSLC 120 C18, 5.0 µm, 4.6 × 150 mm (column A) and Acclaim RSLC 120 C18, 2.2 µm, 2.1 × 100 mm (Column B) were utilized for the analysis of velpatasvir (VPS) in presence of sofosbuvir (SFV), where due to the encountered fluorescent properties of VPS fluorescent detection at 405 nm after excitation at 340 nm (Method 1) was used for its detection where the non-fluorescent SFV did not interfere. The same columns were further utilized for the simultaneous determination of SFV and VPS either in bulk form or in their combined tablet, where UV- spectrophotometric detection at 260 nm was selected for the simultaneous analysis of both drugs (Method 2). A mobile phase consisting of NaH2PO4, pH 2.5 (with phosphoric acid) and acetonitrile in a ratio of 60:40 v/v was used for both methods. The mobile phase was pumped at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min when using column, A and 0.5 mL/min when using column B. The methods showed good linearity over the concentration ranges of 1.0–5.0 and 2.5–10.0 ng/mL for VPS when utilizing Method 1 A and B respectively. Where the linearity concentration range was from 30.0–150.0 to 120–600.0 ng/mL for VPS and SFV respectively when applying Method 2. Both methods 1 and 2 were performed by utilizing the two analytical columns. The different chromatographic parameters as retention time, resolution, number of theoretical plates (N), capacity factor, tailing factor and selectivity were carefully optimized. The results show that comparing the performance of the two utilized columns revealed that shorter column (2.1 mm × 100 mm) with small particle packing was superior to the longer column (4.6 × 150 mm) for the analysis of the studied drugs allowing a reduction of the analysis time by 70% without any detrimental effect on performance. This prompts the decrease of the investigation costs by saving money on organic solvents and expanding the overall number of analyses per day.
Fusion transcription factors for strong, constitutive expression of cellulases and xylanases in Trichoderma reesei
Authors: Derntl Christian , Mach Robert L. , Mach-Aigner Astrid R.
Published: October 2019

Background

The filamentous ascomycete T. reesei is industrially used to produce cellulases and xylanases. Cost-effective production of cellulases is a bottleneck for biofuel production. Previously, different strain and process optimizations were deployed to enhance enzyme production rates. One approach is the overexpression of the main activator Xyr1 and a second is the construction of synthetic transcription factors. Notably, these genetic manipulations were introduced into strains bearing the wild-type xyr1 gene and locus.

Results

Here, we constructed a Xyr1-deficient strain expressing a non-functional truncated version of Xyr1. This strain was successfully used as platform strain for overexpression of Xyr1, which enhanced the cellulase and xylanase production rates under inducing conditions, with the exception of lactose—there the cellulase production was severely reduced. Further, we introduced fusion transcription factors consisting of the DNA-binding domain of Xyr1 and the transactivation domain of either Ypr1 or Ypr2 (regulators of the sorbicillinoid biosynthesis gene cluster). The fusion of Xyr1 and Ypr2 yielded a moderately transactivating transcription factor, whereas the fusion of Xyr1 and Ypr1 yielded a highly transactivating transcription factor that induced xylanases and cellulases nearly carbon source independently. Especially, high production levels of xylanases were achieved on glycerol.

Conclusion

During this study, we constructed a Xyr1-deficient strain that can be fully reconstituted, which makes it an ideal platform strain for Xyr1-related studies. The mere overexpression of Xyr1 turned out not to be a successful strategy for overall enhancement of the enzyme production rates. We gained new insights into the regulatory properties of transcription factors by constructing respective fusion proteins. The Xyr1–Ypr1-fusion transcription factor could induce xylanase production rates on glycerol to outstanding extents, and hence could be deployed in the future to utilize crude glycerol, the main co-product of the biodiesel production process.
Expression of microRNA in human retinal pigment epithelial cells following infection with Zaire ebolavirus
Authors: Oliver Genevieve F. , Orang Ayla V. , Appukuttan Binoy , Marri Shashikanth , Michael Michael Z. , Marsh Glenn A. , Smith Justine R.
Published: October 2019

Objective

Survivors of Ebola virus disease (EVD) are at risk of developing blinding intraocular inflammation—or uveitis—which is associated with retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) scarring and persistence of live Zaire ebolavirus (EBOV) within the eye. As part of a large research project aimed at defining the human RPE cell response to being infected with EBOV, this work focused on the microRNAs (miRNAs) associated with the infection.

Results

Using RNA-sequencing, we detected 13 highly induced and 2 highly repressed human miRNAs in human ARPE-19 RPE cells infected with EBOV, including hsa-miR-1307-5p, hsa-miR-29b-3p and hsa-miR-33a-5p (up-regulated), and hsa-miR-3074-3p and hsa-miR-27b-5p (down-regulated). EBOV-miR-1-5p was also found in infected RPE cells. Through computational identification of putative miRNA targets, we predicted a broad range of regulatory activities, including effects on innate and adaptive immune responses, cellular metabolism, cell cycle progression, apoptosis and autophagy. The most highly-connected molecule in the miR-target network was leucine-rich repeat kinase 2, which is involved in neuroinflammation and lysosomal processing. Our findings should stimulate new studies on the impact of miRNA changes in EBOV-infected RPE cells to further understanding of intraocular viral persistence and the pathogenesis of uveitis in EVD survivors.
DYAMOND: the DYnamics of the Atmospheric general circulation Modeled On Non-hydrostatic Domains
Authors: Stevens Bjorn , Satoh Masaki , Auger Ludovic , Biercamp Joachim , Bretherton Christopher S. , Chen Xi , Düben Peter , Judt Falko , Khairoutdinov Marat , Klocke Daniel , Kodama Chihiro , Kornblueh Luis , Lin Shian-Jiann , Neumann Philipp , Putman William M. , Röber Niklas , Shibuya Ryosuke , Vanniere Benoit , Vidale Pier Luigi , Wedi Nils , Zhou Linjiong
Published: October 2019

A review of the experimental protocol and motivation for DYAMOND, the first intercomparison project of global storm-resolving models, is presented. Nine models submitted simulation output for a 40-day (1 August–10 September 2016) intercomparison period. Eight of these employed a tiling of the sphere that was uniformly less than 5 km. By resolving the transient dynamics of convective storms in the tropics, global storm-resolving models remove the need to parameterize tropical deep convection, providing a fundamentally more sound representation of the climate system and a more natural link to commensurately high-resolution data from satellite-borne sensors. The models and some basic characteristics of their output are described in more detail, as is the availability and planned use of this output for future scientific study. Tropically and zonally averaged energy budgets, precipitable water distributions, and precipitation from the model ensemble are evaluated, as is their representation of tropical cyclones and the predictability of column water vapor, the latter being important for tropical weather.
Automatic conversion of OSM data into LULC maps: comparing FOSS4G based approaches towards an enhanced performance
Authors: Patriarca J. , Fonte C. C. , Estima J. , de Almeida J.-P. , Cardoso A.
Published: October 2019

OSM2LULC is a software package developed to automatically convert OpenStreetMap (OSM) data into Land Use Land Cover (LULC) maps using Free and Open Source Software for Geospatial (FOSS4G) tools. It needs to be highly efficient given the increasing detail of OSM data and the need to apply it to large extent regions. In this article, a comparison between the implementation of OSM2LULC in different available GIS platforms is made using both vector and raster data structures, which resulted in different versions. A description of the differences of each version is made and, to assess their performance, they were applied to four different study areas with different characteristics, in terms of available OSM data and area size. The performance of each version was evaluated taking into account: the overall processing time required to obtain LULC maps; and differences in the results obtained when different data structures (vector and raster) were used. Results showed that the adoption of a strategy that favors interoperability between FOSS4G and the combined use of both vector and raster data promotes a performance increase. After analysing the topological relationships of OSM data, the conversion to raster data format and the execution of procedural parts with such data indicated significant performance gains, without any positional distortions that significantly compromise the applicability of the final result in further case scenarios.
General principles and escalation options of immunotherapy in autoantibody-associated disorders of the CNS
Authors: Ayzenberg Ilya , Faissner Simon , Tomaske Laura , Richter Daniel , Behrendt Volker , Gold Ralf
Published: October 2019

Autoimmune diseases associated with antineuronal and antiglial autoantibodies (Abs) is one of the most rapidly expanding research fields in clinical neuroimmunology, with more than 30 autoantibodies described so far. Being associated with a wide range of clinical presentations these syndromes can be diagnostically challenging. Surface or intracellular antigen localizations are crucial for the treatment response and outcome. In the latter Abs are mostly of paraneoplastic cause and tumor management should be performed as soon as possible in order to stop peripheral antigen stimulation. Immunotherapy should be started early in both groups, before irreversible neuronal loss occurs. Despite serious prognosis, aggressive therapeutic approaches can be effective in many cases. In this article we review main pathogenic mechanisms leading to Abs-related syndromes and describe standard as well as emerging strategies of immunotherapy, including tocilizumab and bortezomib. Several special therapeutic approaches will be illustrated by clinical cases recently treated in our department.
Role of Patient Maximizing-Minimizing Preferences in Thyroid Cancer Surveillance
Authors: Evron Joshua M. , Reyes-Gastelum David , Banerjee Mousumi , Scherer Laura D. , Wallner Lauren P. , Hamilton Ann S. , Ward Kevin C. , Hawley Sarah T. , Zikmund-Fisher Brian J. , Haymart Megan R.
Published: October 2019

PURPOSE

To understand the effect of patient preferences on thyroid cancer surveillance intensity.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Eligible patients diagnosed with thyroid cancer between January 1, 2014, and December 31, 2015, from the Georgia and Los Angeles County SEER registries were surveyed between February 2017 and October 2018 (N = 2,632; response rate, 63%). Patient reports on health care utilization in the past year and responses to the validated Medical Maximizer-Minimizer Scale were linked to SEER data in the 2,183 disease-free patients. Ordered logistic regression was performed using a cumulative logit with nonproportional odds.

RESULTS

Of disease-free patients, 31.6% were classified as minimizers, 42.5% as moderate maximizers, and 25.9% as strong maximizers. In the past year, 25.2%, 27.3%, and 38.5% of minimizers, moderate maximizers, and strong maximizers, respectively, had ≥ 4 doctor visits, and 18.3%, 24.9%, and 29.5%, respectively, had ≥ 2 neck ultrasounds. When controlling for age, sex, race and ethnicity, comorbidity, stage, and SEER site, strong maximizers (compared with minimizers) were significantly more likely to report ≥ 4 doctor visits (odds ratio [OR], 1.45; 95% CI, 1.10-1.92), ≥ 2 neck ultrasounds (OR, 1.58; 95% CI, 1.17-2.14), ≥ 1 radioactive iodine scan (OR, 1.73; 95% CI, 1.19-2.50), and ≥ 1 additional imaging study (OR, 2.06; 95% CI, 1.56-2.72).

CONCLUSION

Among patients with thyroid cancer who have been declared disease free, preference for a more maximal versus minimal approach to medical care is associated with increased number of physician visits and imaging tests. Because increased surveillance does not clearly correlate with improved outcomes, poses potential risks to patients, and contributes to increased healthcare costs, stronger consideration of the role of patient preferences is necessary when framing discussions on surveillance.
The Nuclear Receptor COUP-TFII Regulates Amhr2 Gene Transcription via a GC-Rich Promoter Element in Mouse Leydig Cells
Authors: Mehanovic Samir , Mendoza-Villarroel Raifish E , Viger Robert S , Tremblay Jacques J
Published: October 2019

The nuclear receptor chicken ovalbumin upstream promoter–transcription factor type II (COUP-TFII)/NR2F2 is expressed in adult Leydig cells, and conditional deletion of the Coup-tfii/Nr2f2 gene impedes their differentiation. Steroid production is also reduced in COUP-TFII–depleted Leydig cells, supporting an additional role in steroidogenesis for this transcription factor. COUP-TFII action in Leydig cells remains to be fully characterized. In the present work, we report that COUP-TFII is an essential regulator of the gene encoding the anti-Müllerian hormone receptor type 2 (Amhr2), which participates in Leydig cell differentiation and steroidogenesis. We found that Amhr2 mRNA levels are reduced in COUP-TFII–depleted MA-10 Leydig cells. Consistent with this, COUP-TFII directly activates a −1486 bp fragment of the mouse Amhr2 promoter in transient transfection assays. The COUP-TFII responsive region was localized between −67 and −34 bp. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assay confirmed COUP-TFII recruitment to the proximal Amhr2 promoter whereas DNA precipitation assay revealed that COUP-TFII associates with the −67/−34 bp region in vitro. Even though the −67/−34 bp region contains an imperfect nuclear receptor element, COUP-TFII–mediated activation of the Amhr2 promoter requires a GC-rich sequence at −39 bp known to bind the specificity protein (SP)1 transcription factor. COUP-TFII transcriptionally cooperates with SP1 on the Amhr2 promoter. Mutations that altered the GCGGGGCGG sequence at −39 bp abolished COUP-TFII–mediated activation, COUP-TFII/SP1 cooperation, and reduced COUP-TFII binding to the proximal Amhr2 promoter. Our data provide a better understanding of the mechanism of COUP-TFII action in Leydig cells through the identification and regulation of the Amhr2 promoter as a novel target.
Spatiotemporal regulation of multipotency during prostate development
Authors: Tika Elisavet , Ousset Marielle , Dannau Anne , Blanpain Cédric
Published: October 2019

The prostate is formed by a branched glandular epithelium composed of basal cells (BCs) and luminal cells (LCs). Multipotent and unipotent stem cells (SCs) mediate the initial steps of prostate development whereas BCs and LCs are self-sustained in adult mice by unipotent lineage-restricted SCs. The spatiotemporal regulation of SC fate and the switch from multipotency to unipotency remain poorly characterised. Here, by combining lineage tracing, whole tissue imaging, clonal analysis and proliferation kinetics, we uncover the cellular dynamics that orchestrate prostate postnatal development. We found that at the early step of development, multipotent basal SCs are located throughout the epithelium, and are progressively restricted at the distal tip of the ducts, where together with their progeny set up the different branches and the final structure of prostate. In contrast, pubertal development is mediated by unipotent lineage-restricted SCs. Our results uncover the spatiotemporal regulation of the switch from multipotency to unipotency during prostate development.
PRC2 functions in development and congenital disorders
Authors: Deevy Orla , Bracken Adrian P.
Published: October 2019

Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) is a conserved chromatin regulator that is responsible for the methylation of histone H3 lysine 27 (H3K27). PRC2 is essential for normal development and its loss of function thus results in a range of developmental phenotypes. Here, we review the latest advances in our understanding of mammalian PRC2 activity and present an updated summary of the phenotypes associated with its loss of function in mice. We then discuss recent studies that have highlighted regulatory interplay between the modifications laid down by PRC2 and other chromatin modifiers, including NSD1 and DNMT3A. Finally, we propose a model in which the dysregulation of these modifications at intergenic regions is a shared molecular feature of genetically distinct but highly phenotypically similar overgrowth syndromes in humans.
Optimal Taxation with Risky Human Capital
Authors: Kapička Marek , Neira Julian
Published: October 2019

We study optimal tax policies in a life-cycle economy with permanent ability differences and risky human capital investments that have both an unobservable component, learning effort, and an observable component, schooling. The optimal policies balance redistribution across agents, insurance against human capital shocks, and incentives to learn and work. In the optimum, (i ) high-ability agents face risky consumption while low-ability agents are insured; (ii ) the optimal schooling subsidy is substantial but less than 100 percent; (iii) if utility is separable in labor and learning effort, the inverse labor wedge follows a random walk; and (iv ) if the utility is not separable then the “no distortion at the top” result does not apply. The welfare gains from switching to the optimal tax system are about 1 percent in annual consumption equivalents. (JEL D15, H21, H24, I26, J24)
Seleção Paramétrica de Portfólios: Avaliação e Comparação com Portfólios de Markowitz
Authors: Medeiros Marcelo C. , Passos Artur M. , Vasconcelos Gabriel F. R.
Published: October 2019

Este trabalho tem como objetivo explorar o método de otimização paramétrica de portfólios no mercado brasileiro. O banco de dados utilizado consiste de retornos mensais de 306 ações brasileiras no período de 2001 à 2013. O ajustamento do modelo foi testado dentro e fora da amostra e os resultados foram comparados com o portfólio igualmente balanceado e o portfólio otimizado via Markowitz. A inferência estatística foi feita utilizando técnicas de bootstrap para construir distribuições empíricas dos parâmetros. Os resultados mostraram que o método paramétrico é uma técnica muito eficiente fora da amostra. Ela mostrou resultados superiores quando comparada com as demais técnicas mesmo na presença de custos de transação. Por último, pode-se concluir que o método paramétrico é muito flexível para a inclusão de restrições em pesos, custos de transação e entrada e saída de ações no mercado.
Coordination of capital buffer and risk profile under supervision of Central Bank
Authors: Marques Pereira Joao Andre , Saito Richard
Published: October 2019

This work investigates how banks react to the capital constraints imposed by the Central Bank. Using models that incorporate the simultaneity of capital decisions and risk decisions, our findings confirm the capital buffer theory, which predicts that adjustments to capital and adjustments to risk are positively related. Moreover, we find that regulatory pressures induce banks to increase their risk levels in response to capital adjustments but not vice versa.
Os pesquisadores, as publicações e os periódicos da área de Finanças no Brasil: Uma análise com base em currículos da plataforma Lattes
Authors: Perlin Marcelo Scherer , Santos André Portela
Published: October 2019

Este artigo analisa a produção científica da área de Finanças no Brasil. Utilizando um \emph{software} proprietário para obter informações diretamente da plataforma de currículos Lattes foi possível verificar o perfil e as tendências da pesquisa em Finanças no território nacional. Os principais resultados da pesquisa mostram que a maioria dos pesquisadores de Finanças são relativamente jovens em termos de tempo de carreira, com doutorado finalizado entre os anos de 2005 e 2014 e situados no sudeste do país. Observa-se também que a produção científica nacional em periódicos internacionais de impacto é pequena em comparação com o total de publicações encontradas. O número de publicações por ano tem crescido exponencialmente, porém a qualidade das produções, medida pelo Qualis, deteriorou-se. Uma análise da produtividade dos autores mostra que os autores mais produtivos possuem duas características em comum: doutorado fora do Brasil e bolsa de produtividade do CNPQ.
Previsão de value-at-risk e expected shortfall para mercados emergentes usando modelos FIGARCH
Authors: De Moraes Alex Sandro Monteiro , Figueiredo Pinto Antonio Carlos , Klotzle Marcelo Cabus
Published: October 2019

Este artigo compara os desempenhos dos modelos de memória longa (FIGARCH) e curta (GARCH) na previsão de volatilidade para cálculo de value at-risk (VaR) e expected shortfall (ES) para múltiplos períodos à frente para seis índices de ações de mercados emergentes Utilizou-se, para dados diários de 1999

a 2014, uma adaptação da simulação de Monte Carlo para estimar previsões de VaR e ES para 1, 10 e 20 dias à frente, usando modelos FIGARCH e GARCH para quatro distribuições de erros. Os resultados sugerem que, em geral, os modelos FIGARCH melhoram a precisão das previsões para horizontes mais longos; que a distribuição dos erros pode influenciar a decisão de escolha do

melhor modelo; e que apenas para os modelos FIGARCH houve redução do número de subestimações do VaR verdadeiro com o aumento do horizonte de previsão. Entretanto, os resultados apontam para uma maior variação das estimativas dos parâmetros para os modelos FIGARCH.
Testando o poder preditivo do VIX: uma aplicação do modelo de erro multiplicativo
Authors: Pereira Azevedo Luis Fernando , Valls Pereira Pedro L.
Published: October 2019

O VIX -- Volatility Index -- surgiu como uma alternativa no cálculo da volatilidade implícita, visando mitigar alguns problemas encontrados em modelos da família Black-Scholes. Este tipo de volatilidade é tida como a melhor previsora da volatilidade futura, dado que as expectativas dos operadores de opções se encontram embutidas em seus valores. O objetivo deste trabalho é testar se o VIX apresenta maior poder preditivo da volatilidade futura e contém informações relevantes não presentes em modelos de séries temporais para variáveis não-negativas, tratadas através do modelo de erro multiplicativo. Os resultados indicam que o VIX apresenta maior poder preditivo em períodos de estabilidade econômica, mas não contém informação relevante frente à volatilidade realizada considerada aqui como a "verdadeira volatilidade". Em períodos de crise econômica o resultado se altera, com o VIX apresentando o mesmo poder explicativo, mas contendo informações relevantes no curto prazo.
Fatores de Impacto sobre o Saldo de Caixa: Um Estudo em Empresas Brasileiras Não Financeiras de Capital Aberto
Authors: Tortoli Júlia Peres , Moraes Marcelo Botelho da Costa
Published: October 2019

O objetivo deste estudo é analisar os fatores de impacto e seus efeitos sobre o saldo de caixa, de forma a auxiliar as empresas na obtenção de uma melhor gestão financeira, corroborando para a perpetuidade das mesmas. A amostra consiste em 917 observações de 131 empresas abertas do Brasil, no período de 2007 a 2013. A variável dependente empregada no estudo é obtida pelo logaritmo natural de caixa e equivalentes de caixa dividido pelo total de ativos líquidos, sendo as variáveis independentes as principais apresentadas na literatura acrescida de uma variável dummy para financiamentos passivos via BNDES e de uma variável de controle para a crise financeira. A metodologia utilizada consiste em regressões com dados em painel estático e balanceado, com melhores resultados para efeitos fixos. São encontradas evidências de que as variáveis distribuição de dividendos, maior nível de ativos líquidos, existência de governança corporativa, além da crise financeira, impactam o caixa.
Brazilian Review of Finance 2015 Editorial Report
Authors: Laurini Marcio Poletti
Published: October 2019

RBFin is the main Brazilian publication outlet of academic papers about finance. Using the Open Journals System to manage the editorial process, publication of RBFin adheres to a strict publication schedule. The journal is indexed by EconLit, RedALyC, Proquest, Google Scholar, Gale and Ebsco and is listed in the JEL, DOAJ, Latindex, OpenJGate, and Cabell’s directories. RBFin is rated B2 in the business and economics areas of the Brazilian classification system. The editorial board undergoes partial turnover every year and comprises 19 individuals from four countries, the Brazilian members being affiliated with universities in five different Brazilian states. The acceptance rate was 44\% for papers submitted in 2015. The average number of days between receipt and first decision for articles submitted in 2015 was 86. The average number of days between receipt and final decision for articles submitted in 2015 was 104. The worst case was 345 days. Thirty five individuals served as reviewers in 2015.