bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beyond 2014
Authors: Wideł Wojciech , Audinot Maxime , Fila Barbara , Pinchinat Sophie
Published: September 2019

Attack trees are a well established and commonly used framework for security modeling. They provide a readable and structured representation of possible attacks against a system to protect. Their hierarchical structure reveals common features of the attacks and enables quantitative evaluation of security, thus highlighting the most severe vulnerabilities to focus on while implementing countermeasures. Since in real-life studies attack trees have a large number of nodes, their manual creation is a tedious and error-prone process, and their analysis is a computationally challenging task. During the last half decade, the attack tree community witnessed a growing interest in employing formal methods to deal with the aforementioned difficulties. We survey recent advances in graphical security modeling with focus on the application of formal methods to the interpretation, (semi-)automated creation, and quantitative analysis of attack trees and their extensions. We provide a unified description of existing frameworks, compare their features, and outline interesting open questions.
A Survey on PCM Lifetime Enhancement Schemes
Authors: Rashidi Saeed , Jalili Majid , Sarbazi-Azad Hamid
Published: September 2019

Phase Change Memory (PCM) is an emerging memory technology that has the capability to address the growing demand for memory capacity and bridge the gap between the main memory and the secondary storage. As a resistive memory, PCM is able to store data based on its resistance values. The wide resistance range of PCM makes it possible to store even multiple bits per cell (MLC) rather than a single bit per cell (SLC). Unfortunately, PCM cells suffer from short lifetime. That means PCM cells could tolerate a limited number of write operations, and afterward they tend to permanently stick at a constant value.

Limited lifetime is an issue related to PCM memory; hence, in recent years, many studies have been conducted to prolong PCM lifetime. These schemes have vast variety and are applied at different architectural levels. In this survey, we review the important works of such schemes to give insights to those starting to research on non-volatile memories (NVMs). These schemes are not limited to PCM and are applicable on other NVM technologies due to the similarities between them and the generality of lifetime-prolonging schemes.
Designing Meaningful Products in the Digital Age
Authors: Orth Daniel , Thurgood Clementine , Hoven Elise Van Den
Published: September 2019

Devices such as phones, laptops and tablets have become central to the ways in which many people communicate with others, conduct business and spend their leisure time. This type of product uniquely contains both physical and digital components that affect how they are perceived and valued by users. This article investigates the nature of attachment in the context of technological possessions to better understand ways in which designers can create devices that are meaningful and kept for longer. Findings from our study of the self-reported associations and meaningfulness of technological possessions revealed that the digital contents of these possessions were often the primary source of meaning. Technological possessions were frequently perceived as systems of products rather than as singular devices. We identified several design opportunities for materialising the associations ascribed to the digital information contained within technological products to more meaningfully integrate their physical and digital components.
Evolution in the Anthropocene: Informing Governance and Policy
Authors: Jørgensen Peter Søgaard , Folke Carl , Carroll Scott P.
Published: September 2019

The Anthropocene biosphere constitutes an unprecedented phase in the evolution of life on Earth with one species, humans, exerting extensive control. The increasing intensity of anthropogenic forces in the twenty-first century has widespread implications for attempts to govern both human-dominated ecosystems and the last remaining wild ecosystems. Here, we review how evolutionary biology can inform governance and policies in the Anthropocene, focusing on five governance challenges that span biodiversity, environmental management, food and other biomass production, and human health. The five challenges are: ( a) evolutionary feedbacks, ( b) maintaining resilience, ( c) alleviating constraints, ( d) coevolutionary disruption, and ( e) biotechnology. Strategies for governing these dynamics will themselves have to be coevolutionary, as eco-evolutionary and social dynamics change in response to each other.
Miltefosine Rescue Treatment for Visceral Leishmaniasis Relapse Patient
Authors: Bastola Anup , Shrestha Mitesh , Chalise Bimal Sharma , Mishra Abhdesh Kumar , Devkota Lina
Published: September 2019

We report the first case of miltefosine rescue treatment carried out for visceral leishmaniasis (VL) relapse patient. Despite undergoing treatment regimens of liposomal amphotericin B (LAMB) 5 mg/kg (standard: 10 mg/kg) daily for 3 days during the first episode followed by LAMB 5 mg/kg stat and paromomycin 15 mg/kg IM for 10 days against the second episode, the patient suffered from a third relapse and was eventually treated with miltefosine 50 mg BID directly observed treatment for 28 days. Prior to treatment, the patient had a history of intermittent fever and vague abdominal pain for one week and epistaxis for 4 days. He had massive splenomegaly, tested positive for the rK39 test, and showed LD bodies in bone marrow aspirate. The patient tested negative for malaria and HIV. Upon treatment completion with miltefosine, the patient had clinically improved and showed no LD bodies in bone marrow.
Prevalence of Systemic Arterial Hypertension Diagnosed, Undiagnosed, and Uncontrolled in Elderly Population: SABE Study
Authors: Oliveira Isabela Martins , Duarte Yeda Aparecida de Oliveira , Zanetta Dirce Maria Trevisan
Published: September 2019

Systemic arterial hypertension is the most prevalent chronic noncommunicable disease among older people. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of hypertension in the elderly and to analyze factors associated with diagnosed, undiagnosed, and uncontrolled hypertension. This is a cross-sectional study of data from the SABE study—Health, Well-Being, and Aging Survey—a multiple-cohort study, obtained in 2010, composed of a probabilistic sample representative of the population of the São Paulo city aged ≥60 years. Hypertension was self‐reported or defined by increased blood pressure. Multinomial regression assessed factors associated with diagnosis and lack of diagnosis of hypertension (reference: no hypertension), and logistic regression assessed factors associated with uncontrolled hypertension (reference: controlled). The prevalence of hypertension was 79.5%, and in 51% of individuals with the condition, hypertension was uncontrolled. Undiagnosed hypertension was associated with nonwhite skin color (OR: 1.89, CI: 1.11–3.19), being uninsured (OR: 1.77, CI: 1.04–3.03), overweight (OR: 2.38, CI: 1.09–5.19), higher education (OR: 0.46, CI: 0.22–1.94), and ≥1 chronic disease (OR: 0.28; CI: 0.13–0.58). Diagnosed hypertension was associated with age between 70 and 79 years (OR: 2.02, CI: 1.34–3.05), age ≥80 (OR: 2.73, CI: 1.72–4.31), nonwhite skin color (OR: 1.48, CI: 1.01–2.18), being uninsured (OR: 1.70, CI: 1.18–2.47), at least one medical consultation in the last year (OR: 1.86, CI: 1.06–3.25), obesity (OR: 2.50, CI: 1.61–3.88), and ≥1 chronic disease (OR: 2.81, CI: 1.94–4.08). Among those with hypertension, being uncontrolled was associated with widowhood (OR: 1.73, CI: 1.23–2.43), being uninsured (OR: 1.38, CI: 1.02–1.87), and female gender (OR: 0.61, CI: 0.43–0.87). The prevalence of hypertension was high in this population, and its diagnosis and control were associated with socioeconomic, demographic, and healthcare access factors.
Correlation of TSHR and CTLA-4 Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms with Graves Disease
Authors: Sun Weihua , Zhang Xiaomei , Wu Jing , Zhao Wendi , Zhao Shuangxia , Li Minglong
Published: September 2019

This study was designed to explore the association between Graves disease (GD) and thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor (TSHR) and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 (CTLA-4) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). We studied a total of 1217 subjects from a Han population in northern Anhui province in China. Six SNPs within TSHR (rs179247, rs12101261, rs2284722, rs4903964, rs2300525, and rs17111394) and four SNPs within CTLA-4 (rs10197319, rs231726, rs231804, and rs1024161) were genotyped via a Taqman probe technique using a Fluidigm EP1 platform. The TSHR alleles rs179247-G, rs12101261-C, and rs4903964-G were negatively correlated with GD, whereas the rs2284722-A and rs17111394-C alleles were positively correlated with GD. Analyzing TSHR SNPs at rs179247, rs2284722, rs12101261, and rs4903964 yielded 8 different haplotypes. There were positive correlations between GD risk and the haplotypes AGTA and AATA (OR=1.27, 95%CI=1.07‐1.50, P=0.005; OR=1.45, 95%CI=1.21‐1.75, P<0.001, respectively). There were negative correlations between GD risk and the haplotype GGCG (OR=0.56, 95%CI=0.46‐0.67, P<0.001). With respect to haplotypes based on SNPs at the TSHR rs2300525 and rs17111394 loci, the CC haplotype was positively correlated with GD risk (OR=1.32, 95%CI=1.08‐1.60, P=0.006). Analyzing CTLA-4 SNPs at rs231804, rs1024161, and rs231726 yielded four haplotypes, of which AAA was positively correlated with GD risk (OR=1.21, 95%CI=1.02‐1.43, P=0.029). Polymorphisms at rs179247, rs12101261, rs2284722, rs4903964, and rs17111394 were associated with GD susceptibility. Haplotypes of both TSHR and CTLA-4 were additionally related to GD risk.
Know Thy PDX Model
Authors: Meehan Terrence F.
Published: September 2019

Patient-derived tumor xenograft (PDX) models are frequently used to study cancer mechanisms and potential therapeutics, however, differences in tumor evolution between models and patients have called into question their clinical relevance. In this issue, Mer and colleagues describe the Xenograft Visualization and Analysis (Xeva) software tool that empowers pharmacogenomic analysis through integration of PDX model tumor–drug response with genetic data. By performing the largest PDX model meta-analysis of its kind, the authors demonstrate PDX models are robust platforms for cancer treatment studies. With a clear need for more integrative studies, Xeva is well placed to make more important contributions to pharmacogenomic discovery.

See related article by Mer et al., p. 4539
Phase II Study of the ALK5 Inhibitor Galunisertib in Very Low-, Low-, and Intermediate-Risk Myelodysplastic Syndromes
Authors: Santini Valeria , Valcárcel David , Platzbecker Uwe , Komrokji Rami S. , Cleverly Ann L. , Lahn Michael M. , Janssen Jan , Zhao Yumin , Chiang Alan , Giagounidis Aristoteles , Guba Susan C. , Gueorguieva Ivelina , Girvan Allicia C. , da Silva Ferreira Mariana , Bhagat Tushar D. , Pradhan Kith , Steidl Ulrich , Sridharan Ashwin , Will Britta , Verma Amit
Published: September 2019

Purpose:

Overactivation of TGF-β signaling is observed in myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and is associated with dysplastic hematopoietic differentiation. Galunisertib, a first-in-class oral inhibitor of the TGF-β receptor type 1 kinase (ALK5) has shown effectiveness in preclinical models of MDS and acceptable toxicity in phase I studies of solid malignancies.

Patients and Methods:

A phase II multicenter study of galunisertib was conducted in patients with very low-, low-, or intermediate-risk MDS by the Revised International Prognostic Scoring System criteria with hemoglobin ≤ 10.0 g/dL. Patients received oral galunisertib 150 mg twice daily for 14 days on/14 days off.

Results:

Ten of 41 evaluable patients (24.4%; 95% confidence interval, 12.4–40.3) achieved hematologic improvement erythroid response by International Working Group (IWG) 2006 criteria. A total of 18 of 41 patients (43.9%) achieved erythroid response as per IWG 2000 criteria. Nine of 28 (32.1%) of transfusion-dependent patients had hematologic improvement. A total of 18 of 41 (44%) patients had a significant reduction in fatigue. Overall median duration of response was 90 days in all patients. Rigorous stem and progenitor flow cytometry showed that patients with an early stem cell differentiation block were more likely to respond to galunisertib. The most common treatment-emergent adverse events were grade 1 or 2 in 20 (49%) of 41 patients, including any-grade fatigue (8/41, 20%), diarrhea (7/41, 17%), pyrexia (5/41, 12%), and vomiting (5/41, 12%).

Conclusions:

In summary, galunisertib treatment has an acceptable safety profile and was associated with hematologic improvements in lower- and intermediate-risk MDS, with responses in heavily transfusion-dependent patients and in those with signs of an early stem cell differentiation block.
Altered Gene Expression along the Glycolysis–Cholesterol Synthesis Axis Is Associated with Outcome in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Karasinska Joanna M. , Topham James T. , Kalloger Steve E. , Jang Gun Ho , Denroche Robert E. , Culibrk Luka , Williamson Laura M. , Wong Hui-Li , Lee Michael K.C. , O'Kane Grainne M. , Moore Richard A. , Mungall Andrew J. , Moore Malcolm J. , Warren Cassia , Metcalfe Andrew , Notta Faiyaz , Knox Jennifer J. , Gallinger Steven , Laskin Janessa , Marra Marco A. , Jones Steven J.M. , Renouf Daniel J. , Schaeffer David F.
Published: September 2019

Purpose:

Identification of clinically actionable molecular subtypes of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is key to improving patient outcome. Intertumoral metabolic heterogeneity contributes to cancer survival and the balance between distinct metabolic pathways may influence PDAC outcome. We hypothesized that PDAC can be stratified into prognostic metabolic subgroups based on alterations in the expression of genes involved in glycolysis and cholesterol synthesis.

Experimental Design:

We performed bioinformatics analysis of genomic, transcriptomic, and clinical data in an integrated cohort of 325 resectable and nonresectable PDAC. The resectable datasets included retrospective The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) cohorts. The nonresectable PDAC cohort studies included prospective COMPASS, PanGen, and BC Cancer Personalized OncoGenomics program (POG).

Results:

On the basis of the median normalized expression of glycolytic and cholesterogenic genes, four subgroups were identified: quiescent, glycolytic, cholesterogenic, and mixed. Glycolytic tumors were associated with the shortest median survival in resectable (log-rank test P = 0.018) and metastatic settings (log-rank test P = 0.027). Patients with cholesterogenic tumors had the longest median survival. KRAS and MYC-amplified tumors had higher expression of glycolytic genes than tumors with normal or lost copies of the oncogenes (Wilcoxon rank sum test P = 0.015). Glycolytic tumors had the lowest expression of mitochondrial pyruvate carriers MPC1 and MPC2. Glycolytic and cholesterogenic gene expression correlated with the expression of prognostic PDAC subtype classifier genes.

Conclusions:

Metabolic classification specific to glycolytic and cholesterogenic pathways provides novel biological insight into previously established PDAC subtypes and may help develop personalized therapies targeting unique tumor metabolic profiles.

See related commentary by Mehla and Singh, p. 6
Fluorescence Lifetime-Based Tumor Contrast Enhancement Using an EGFR Antibody–Labeled Near-Infrared Fluorophore
Authors: Pal Rahul , Kang Homan , Choi Hak Soo , Kumar Anand T.N.
Published: September 2019

Purpose:

Imaging techniques for highly specific detection of cancer cells in vivo can have applications ranging from preclinical drug discovery studies to clinical cancer diagnosis and surgical therapy. Although fluorescence imaging using cancer-targeted antibodies has shown promise, nonspecific probe accumulation in tissue results in significant background fluorescence, reducing detection sensitivity using traditional intensity–based continuous-wave (CW) fluorescence imaging. Here we demonstrate that fluorescence lifetime (FLT) imaging can provide significant tumor contrast enhancement over CW intensity in preclinical models of human breast cancer.

Experimental Design:

Mice bearing MDA-MB-231 tumors were injected with anti-EGFR antibody conjugated to the fluorescent dye IRDye 800CW (anti-EGFR-800). Time domain fluorescence imaging was performed in vivo and in situ up to 48 hours after dye injection.

Results:

Mice injected with anti-EGFR-800 showed a significantly longer FLT (0.7 ± 0.03 ns) compared with the FLT of nonspecific probe uptake in liver (0.63 ± 0.05 ns), providing a dramatic improvement in sensitivity and specificity compared with CW intensity. IgG antibody–conjugated IRDye 800CW did not show an increased FLT compared with normal tissue, suggesting that the FLT increase of anti-EGFR-800 in tumors was associated with receptor expression. Using serial surgery, we show that FLT allows the detection of smaller residual tumors in the surgical bed than possible using CW intensity.

Conclusions:

Our data suggest that FLT can significantly enhance tumor contrast using fluorescently labeled antibodies, thereby accelerating the efficient clinical application of these probes for margin assessment in image-guided surgery and for highly specific detection of tumor receptors in vivo.
Systematic Surgical Assessment of Deceased-Donor Kidneys as a Predictor of Short-Term Transplant Outcomes
Authors: Tierie Elise L. , Roodnat Joke I. , Dor Frank J.M.F.
Published: September 2019

Background: Short-term kidney graft dysfunction is correlated with complications and it is associated with a decreased long-term survival; therefore, a scoring system to predict short-term renal transplant outcomes is warranted. Aim: The aim of this study is to quantify the impression of the organ procurement surgeon in correlation with the following kidney transplant outcomes: immediate graft function (IGF), delayed graft function (DGF), and primary nonfunction (PNF). Results are compared to factors associated with the 1-year outcome. Methods: A regional prospective pilot study was performed using deceased-donor organ assessment forms to be filled out by procurement surgeons after procurement. Data were gathered on kidney temperature, perfusion, anatomy, atherosclerosis, and overall quality. Results: Included were 90 donors who donated 178 kidneys, 166 of which were transplanted. Variables that were significantly more prevalent in the DGF-or-PNF group (n = 65) are: large kidney size (length, p = 0.008; width, p = 0.036), poor perfusion quality (p = 0.037), lower diuresis (p = 0.039), fewer hypotensive episodes (p = 0.003), and donation-after-circulatory-death donors (p = 0.017). Multivariable analysis showed that perfusion quality and kidney width significantly predicted the short-term outcome. However multivariable analysis of long-term outcomes showed that the first measured donor creatinine, kidney donor risk index, IGF vs. DGF+PNG, and kidney length predicted outcomes. Conclusions: Results show that short-term graft function and 1-year graft function indeed are influenced by different variables. DGF and PNF occur more frequently in kidneys with poor perfusion and in larger kidneys. A plausible explanation for this is that these kidneys might be insufficiently washed out, or even congested, which may predispose to DGF. These kidneys would probably benefit most from reconditioning strategies, such as machine perfusion. A scoring system including these variables might aid in decision-making towards allocation and potential reconditioning strategies.
Gut It Out: Laxative Abuse Mimicking Distal Renal Tubular Acidosis
Authors: Sidler Marius , Mohebbi Nilufar , Hoorn Ewout J. , Wagner Carsten A.
Published: September 2019

Background: Distal renal tubular acidosis (dRTA) can be inherited or acquired. Case Presentation: Here, we describe the case of a 45-year-old female patient with non-anion gap metabolic acidosis, hypokalemia, and alkaline urine. She had a history of rheumatoid arthritis and kidney stones and failed to acidify urine upon the fludrocortisone and furosemide test. Therefore, the diagnosis of dRTA secondary to an autoimmune disease was made. A kidney biopsy was examined for markers of acid-secretory intercalated cells. Surprisingly, no obvious difference in the relative number of acid-secretory intercalated cells or in the distribution of major proteins involved in acid secretion was found. Furthermore, increasing doses of potassium citrate failed to correct the hypokalemia and acidosis. Since these findings were rather atypical for autoimmune dRTA, alternative causes of her hypokalemia and metabolic acidosis were sought. The patient was found to chronically consume laxatives, which can also cause kidney stones and may result in a false-positive urinary acidification test. Conclusion: Chronic laxative abuse may mimic dRTA and should therefore be considered in unexplained hypokalemia with non-anion gap metabolic acidosis.
Personal and Interpersonal Drivers that Contribute to the Intention to Use Gerontechnologies
Authors: De Regge Melissa , Van Baelen Freek , Beirão Gabriela , Den Ambtman Anouk , De Pourcq Kaat , Dias Joana Carmo , Kandampully Jay
Published: September 2019

Background: Over the past few years, various new types of technologies have been introduced, which have been tailored to meet the specific needs of older adults by incorporating gerontological design principles (i.e., “gerontechnologies“). However, it has been difficult to motivate older adults to adopt and use these new technologies. Therefore, it is crucial to better understand not only the role of personal drivers but also the family influences on older adults. Objective: This research goes beyond traditional technology acceptance theories by investigating the role of personal (e.g., inherent novelty seeking) and interpersonal drivers (e.g., influence of family) in stimulating older adults to use gerontechnologies. Nine hypotheses, building on traditional and new technology acceptance theories, were developed and tested. Methods: This research applies a cross-sectional study design. Therefore, a face-to-face survey instrument was developed building on a qualitative pilot study and validated scales. Three hundred and four older adults (minimum age = 70 years) were willing to participate as well as one of their family members. Structural equation modeling was applied to analyze the hypothesized conceptual model. Results: Our results extend the seminal technology acceptance theories by adding personal (i.e., inherent novelty seeking p = 0.017) and interpersonal drivers. More specifically, it was found that the attitude toward gerontechnologies was influenced by family tech savviness (i.e., people who often use technology), as this relationship is fully mediated through the social norms of older adults (p = 0.014). The same was found for older adults’ trust in the family member’s technology knowledge (p ≤ 0.001). Here, the relationship with older adults’ attitude toward gerontechnologies was partially mediated by the older adults’ trust in technology. Conclusion: This study identified important personal and interpersonal drivers that influence attitudes toward and intentions to use gerontechnologies. To foster technology acceptance among older adults, it was found that it is important to strengthen the trust in and the attitude toward gerontechnologies. Furthermore, family members’ knowledge and beliefs in technology were the keys to promoting the actual use of gerontechnologies among older adults. Furthermore, the families’ trust in gerontechnologies and the provision of access to technology can improve their attitudes toward technology and usage intentions for the older relative.
A New Oxygen Uptake Measurement Supporting Target Selection for Endobronchial Valve Treatment
Authors: Welling Jorrit B.A. , Klooster Karin , Charbonnier Jean-Paul , Van Rikxoort Eva M. , Barends Clemens R.M. , Kerstjens Huib A.M. , Ten Hacken Nick H.T. , Hartman Jorine E. , Slebos Dirk-Jan
Published: September 2019

Background: Adequate target lobe selection for endobronchial valve (EBV) treatment in patients with severe emphysema is essential for treatment success and can be based on emphysema destruction, lobar perfusion, lobar volume, and collateral ventilation. As some patients have >1 target lobe for EBV treatment, we were interested whether we could identify the least functional lobe. Objectives: The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between endoscopic lobar measurement of oxygen uptake, lobar destruction, and vascular volume, and whether this could help in identifying the least functional lobe and thus optimal target for EBV treatment. Method: We prospectively included patients who were scheduled for EBV treatment in our hospital. A customized gas analysis setup was used to measure lobar O2 uptake after lobar balloon occlusion. Quantitative CT analysis was performed to assess the degree of emphysematous destruction and lobar arterial and venous volumes. Results: Twenty-one (5 male/16 female) patients with emphysema (median age 63 years, FEV1 25% of predicted, residual volume 234% of predicted) were included, and 49 endoscopic lobar measurements were performed. A lower O2 uptake significantly correlated with a higher degree of emphysematous lobar destruction (Spearman’s ρ: 0.39, p < 0.01), and lower arterial and venous vascular volumes of the lobes (–0.46 and –0.47, respectively; both p < 0.001). Conclusions: Endoscopic measurement of lobar O2 uptake is feasible in patients with emphysema. Measurement of lobar O2 uptake helped to identify the least functional lobe and can be used as additional tool for EBV target lobe selection.
Reduced Cerebellar Size at Term-Equivalent Age Is Related to a 17% Lower Mental Developmental Index in Very Preterm Infants without Brain Injury
Authors: Hammerl Marlene , Zagler Michaela , Griesmaier Elke , Janjic Tanja , Gizewski Elke Ruth , Kiechl-Kohlendorfer Ursula , Neubauer Vera
Published: September 2019

Introduction: Cerebellar injury is increasingly recognized as a relevant complication of premature birth. However, the prevalence of reduced cerebellar growth and its consequences for neurodevelopmental outcome in preterm infants without overt brain injury remain to be defined in detail. The aim of this study was to assess the transcerebellar diameter (TCD) at term-equivalent age (TEA) in very preterm infants without brain injury and to evaluate whether TCD is related to neurodevelopmental outcome in this population. Methods: Very preterm infants underwent magnetic resonance imaging at TEA. Infants with any grade of supra- or infratentorial brain injury were excluded. TCD was measured and categorized using existing cut-off values as normal TCD and mild or severe TCD reduction. Psychomotor Developmental index (PDI) and Mental Developmental index (MDI) were assessed using Bayley Scales of Infant Development II and III at a corrected age of 2 years. Results: A total of 166 infants with a mean gestational age of 29.9 ± 1.8 weeks and a mean birth weight of 1,317 ± 393 g were included. Mean TCD of girls was significantly lower compared to the mean TCD of boys (p = 0.004). TCD reduction was present in 8 infants (4.8%). Infants with a mild TCD reduction achieved lower mean MDI than infants with normal TCD (p = 0.021). Discussion: We found that reduced TCD was associated with a 17% lower mean MDI at a corrected age of 2 years. Thus, TCD at TEA may be used as an imaging marker for adverse cognitive outcome in the apparently low-risk group of preterm infants without brain injury.
Diálogos com Fernando Peixoto ou inquietações em torno do binômio entre arte e política
Authors: Ramos Rosangela Patriota
Published: September 2019

Este artigo visa apresentar momentos importantes da trajetória artística do diretor, ator e escritor Fernando Peixoto (1937-2012). Com esse intuito, serão abordadas suas atividades na cidade de Porto Alegre, onde iniciou sua vida teatral, e na sequência a consolidação de sua trajetória política e profissional, na cidade de São Paulo, no Teatro Oficina, no Theatro São Pedro e na Othon Bastos Produções Artísticas, além de espetáculos não vinculados a companhias específicas.
Jorge Andrade
Authors: Rosa Carlos Gontijo
Published: September 2019

Este artigo trata da presença do autor Jorge Andrade no texto dramático A moratória. São elencados para a discussão conceitos da teoria bakhtiniana que entende o autor enquanto uma figura textualmente marcada. Para tanto, são aventadas a biografia do autor, entrevistas e o romance autobiográfico Labirinto como marcos de comparação da escrita do dramaturgo e construção de seu espaço biográfico, no qual todos estes discursos são colocados em diálogo.
O Centro Popular de Cultura de Santo André e sua proposta de um teatro proletário
Authors: Takara Jacqueline Da Silva
Published: September 2019

A pesquisa sobre o Centro Popular de Cultura (CPC) de Santo André tem o objetivo de resgatar sua história por meio de suas principais fontes teóricas e documentais, publicadas sobretudo no final dos anos de 1990, além de entrevistas e periódicos como o News Seller e o Diário do Grande ABC. Além disso, pretende-se investigar suas proposições estéticas e políticas, comparando-as com a experiência do CPC da União Nacional dos Estudantes (UNE) e suas críticas posteriores.
AT1AA (Angiotensin II Type-1 Receptor Autoantibodies)
Authors: Piazza Maria , Seccia Teresa Maria , Caroccia Brasilina , Rossitto Giacomo , Scarpa Riccardo , Persichitti Perla , Basso Daniela , Rossi Gian Paolo
Published: September 2019

AT1AA (Angiotensin II type-1 receptor autoantibodies) were first detected in patients with primary aldosteronism (PA) because of aldosterone-producing adenoma (APA) with an in-house developed assay, but it remained unclear if they can be ascertained also with commercially available assays and if they have a functional role. Aims of our study were to investigate if (1) commercially available kits allow detection of raised AT1AA titer in APA; (2) this titer is normalized by adrenalectomy; and (3) AT1AA display any biological roles in vitro. We measured with 2 ELISA kits the AT1AA titer in serum of APA patients and its changes after adrenalectomy. We also investigated AT1AA bioactivity by using AT1-R (angiotensin type-1 receptor)–transfected Chinese hamster ovary and human adrenocortical carcinoma cells, and by measuring aldosterone synthase (
CYP11B2
) expression in human adrenocortical carcinoma cells after incubation with IgG. Both kits allowed detection of higher AT1AA levels in APA patients than in healthy subjects; surgical cure of PA did not decrease this titer at 1-month follow-up. Human adrenocortical carcinoma cells stimulation with IgG purified from sera of APA patients increased both
CYP11B2
expression and aldosterone release (+40% and +76%, respectively, versus healthy subjects). However, no detectable effect of IgG was seen in Chinese hamster ovary cells expressing AT1-R. These findings support the contentions that (1) the raised AT1AA titer does not seem to be a consequence of hyperaldosteronism as it did not normalize after its cure; (2) AT1AA act as weak stimulators of aldosterone biosynthesis, but this effect can be identified only by using a sensitive in vitro technique.
Effects of Antihypertensive Class on Falls, Syncope, and Orthostatic Hypotension in Older Adults
Authors: Juraschek Stephen P. , Simpson Lara M. , Davis Barry R. , Beach Jennifer L. , Ishak Anthony , Mukamal Kenneth J.
Published: September 2019

Hypertension treatment has been implicated in falls, syncope, and orthostatic hypotension (OH), common events among older adults. Whether the choice of antihypertensive agent influences the risk of falls, syncope, and OH in older adults is unknown. ALLHAT (Antihypertensive and Lipid-Lowering Treatment to Prevent Heart Attack Trial) was a randomized clinical trial that compared the effects of hypertension first-step therapy on fatal coronary heart disease or nonfatal myocardial infarction (1994–2002). In a subpopulation of ALLHAT participants, age 65 years and older, we determined the relative risk of falls, syncope, OH, or a composite based on Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and Veterans Affairs claims, using Cox regression. We also determined the adjusted association of self-reported atenolol use (ascertained at the 1-month visit for indications other than hypertension) on outcomes in Cox models adjusted for age, sex, and race. Among 23 964 participants (mean age 69.8±6.8 years, 45% women, 31% non-Hispanic black) followed for a mean of 4.9 years, we identified 267 falls, 755 syncopes, 249 OH, and 1157 composite claims. There were no significant differences in the cumulative incidences of events across randomized drug assignments. However, amlodipine increased risk of falls during the first year of follow-up compared with chlorthalidone (hazard ratio [95% CI]: 2.24 [1.06–4.74];
P
=0.03) or lisinopril (hazard ratio [95% CI]: 2.61 [1.03–6.72];
P
=0.04). Atenolol use (N=928) was not associated with any of the 3 individual or composite claims. In older adults, the choice of antihypertensive agent had no effect on risk of fall, syncope, or OH long-term. However, amlodipine increased risk of falls within 1 year of initiation. These short-term findings require confirmation.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00000542.
Low Educational Attainment is a Predictor of Adverse Outcomes in Patients With Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Kelli Heval M. , Mehta Anurag , Tahhan Ayman S. , Liu Chang , Kim Jeong Hwan , Dong Tiffany A. , Dhindsa Devinder S. , Ghazzal Bahjat , Choudhary Muaaz K. , Sandesara Pratik B. , Hayek Salim S. , Topel Matthew L. , Alkhoder Ayman A. , Martini Mohamed A. , Sidoti Arianna , Ko Yi‐An , Lewis Tene T. , Vaccarino Viola , Sperling Laurence S. , Quyyumi Arshed A.
Published: September 2019

Background

Educational attainment is an indicator of socioeconomic status and is inversely associated with coronary artery disease risk. Whether educational attainment level (
EAL
) among patients with coronary artery disease influences outcomes remains understudied.

Methods and Results

Patients undergoing cardiac catheterization had their highest
EAL
assessed using options of elementary/middle school, high school, college, or graduate education. Primary outcome was all‐cause mortality and secondary outcomes were a composite of cardiovascular death/non‐fatal myocardial infarction and non‐fatal myocardial infarction during follow‐up. Cox models adjusted for clinically relevant confounders were used to analyze the association of
EAL
with outcomes. Among 6318 patients (63.5 years, 63% men, 23% black) enrolled, 16%, 42%, 38%, and 4% had received graduate or higher, college, high school, and elementary/middle school education, respectively. During 4.2 median years of follow‐up, there were 1066 all‐cause deaths, 812 cardiovascular deaths/non‐fatal myocardial infarction, and 276 non‐fatal myocardial infarction. Compared with patients with graduate education, those in lower
EAL
categories (elementary/middle school, high school, or college education) had a higher risk of all‐cause mortality (hazard ratios 1.52 [95%
CI
1.11–2.09]; 1.43 [95%
CI
1.17–1.73]; and 95%
CI
1.26 [1.03–1.53], respectively). Similar findings were observed for secondary outcomes.

Conclusions

Low educational attainment is an independent predictor of adverse outcomes in patients undergoing angiographic coronary artery disease evaluation. The utility of incorporating
EAL
into risk assessment algorithms and the causal link between low
EAL
and adverse outcomes in this high‐risk patient population need further investigation.
Waidelotinae, a new subfamily of Pyrochroidae (Coleoptera: Tenebrionoidea) from Baltic amber of the Sambian peninsula and the interpretation of Sambian amber stratigraphy, age and location
Authors: BUKEJS ANDRIS , ALEKSEEV VITALII I. , POLLOCK DARREN A.
Published: September 2019

Waidelotus hoffeinsorum gen. et sp. nov. is described from Eocene Baltic amber and assigned to Waidelotinae subfam. nov. within family Pyrochroidae (Coleoptera). The new subfamily differs from the other subfamilies by the following combination of features: penultimate tarsomere of all tarsi deeply bilobed, antepenultimate tarsomere of each pro- and mesothoracic tarsus slightly bilobed, antepenultimate tarsomere of metathoracic tarsi slightly widened apically; pronotum laterally margined in basal half; eyes emarginate; pretarsal claws appendiculate; prosternal intercoxal process incompletely separating prothoracic coxae; pronotum with fine posterior submarginal groove; head without distinct constriction behind eyes; posterior pronotal pits absent; and elytral pubescence homogenous. It is the only authentic species of Pyrochroidae (Coleoptera) from Baltic amber, pending final placement of Palaeopyrochroa crowsoni Abdullah, 1965. Additionally, the available data on stratigraphy of amber-bearing strata on the Sambian peninsula, and the age and location of Eocene amberiferous forests are discussed. A middle Eocene (mostly Bartonian) age is interpreted for the extinct Central European resin-producing forests resulting in the Sambian amber deposits.
Intelligent Wind Retrieval from Chinese Gaofen-3 SAR Imagery in Quad Polarization
Authors: Shao Weizeng , Zhu Shuai , Zhang Xiaopeng , Gou Shuiping , Jiao Changzhe , Yuan Xinzhe , Zhao Liangbo
Published: September 2019

This study proposes the use of the artificial neural network for wind retrieval with ChineseGaofen-3(GF-3) synthetic aperture radar (SAR) data. More than 10 000 images acquired in wave mode and quad-polarization strip map were collected over global seas throughout the 2-yr mission. TheGF-3operated in a quad-polarization channel—vertical–vertical (VV), vertical–horizontal (VH), horizontal–horizontal (HH), and horizontal–vertical (HV). These images were collocated with winds from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts at a 0.125° grid. The newly released wind retrieval algorithm for copolarization (VV and HH) SAR included CMOD7 and C-SARMOD2. We developed an algorithm based on an artificial neural network method using the SAR-measured normalized radar cross section at quad-polarization channels, herein named QPWIND_GF. Simulations using the QPWIND_GF showed that the correlation coefficient of wind speed was 0.94. We then validated the retrieval wind speeds against the measurements at a 0.25° grid from the Advanced Scatterometer. A comparison showed that the root-mean-square error (RMSE) of wind speed was 0.74 m s−1, which was better than the wind speed obtained using state-of-the-art methods—including, for example, CMOD7 (RMSE 0.88 m s−1) and C-SARMOD2 (RMSE 1.98 m s−1). The finding indicated that the accuracy of wind retrieval fromGF-3SAR images was significantly improved. Our work demonstrates the advanced feasibility of an artificial neural network method for SAR marine applications.
The effects of ethnic identity and acculturation in mental health of immigrants: A literature review
Authors: Balidemaj Albina , Small Mark
Published: September 2019

Objectives:

The purpose of this literature review was to highlight the studies on mental health in relation to acculturation and ethnic identity and to identify research gaps. The results can be used to help inform future immigrant mental health workers and policy makers as well as provide information about the implications of immigrant mental health.

Methods:

The literature search was conducted electronically, directed by a variety of key words. The search focused on five areas of immigrant mental health importance: (1) acculturation; (2) acculturation and mental health; (3) ethnic identity; (4) ethnic identity and mental health; and (5) acculturation, ethnic identity and mental health. A total of 171 articles were examined and 110 were included in the review.

Results:

The information is presented in the following categories: acculturation; acculturation and mental health; ethnic identity; ethnic identity and mental health; and acculturation, ethnic identity and mental health. Research gaps are also presented.

Conclusion:

Overall, literature shows that acculturation, ethnic identity and mental health are closely related to one another affecting both, individuals and communities. This literature review will help to better inform practitioners who may encounter immigrants experiencing mental health issues due to acculturation and ethnic identity pressure. This review may also help policy makers identify specific obstacles that are not addressed in immigration policies which can affect the implementation of these policies. In addition, the information presented can be used as an instrument for researchers in the field. Despite the limited amount of information about immigrant mental health challenges, much work remains to fully support the affected individuals and their families.
Physical activity and mental health in India: A narrative review
Authors: Cherubal Aishwarya Gonzalez , Suhavana Balasubramanian , Padmavati Ramachandran , Raghavan Vijaya
Published: September 2019

Background:

Apart from its evident impact on physical health, physical activity also has a role to play in mental health. Individuals engaged in physical inactivity have been found to have higher morbidity and health care expenditure. In order to combat these issues and preserve mental health, interventions of exercise are typically advocated. This review aimed to assess the benefits of physical activity on common and severe mental disorders in the Indian context.

Materials and methods:

A Boolean search was carried out using both relevant keywords and MeSH terms. Articles were sourced from online databases including PubMed, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Database, PsycINFO and Google Scholar. All studies included in the review were peer-reviewed articles exclusively from India with Indian subjects reporting the relationship between physical activity and at least one mental health outcome including depression, anxiety, psychosis, stress, self-esteem and cognitive functioning.

Results:

Nineteen articles were found eligible for the narrative review. Out of these, 7 were cross-sectional studies and 12 were intervention studies.

Conclusion:

Existing literature from India has shown promising results towards the impact of physical activity in mental health disorders. However, more research is needed in the assessment of physical activity and physical activity interventions suitable to the Indian context. This review found that exercise and yoga are effective in reducing mean scores for both severe and common mental disorders. Yoga had a more significant impact on patients with schizophrenia than exercise or no intervention. To confirm that exercise is an effective add-on treatment, further research is required.
South Los Angeles Since the 1960s: Race, Place, and Class
Authors: Comandon Andre , Ong Paul
Published: September 2019

South Los Angeles embodies a complex history that captures the dynamics of spatial inequality. It is an area where some of the largest protests reacting to a system of racial oppression have imprinted a persistent image on the names South Central and Watts. This article analyzes how the stigma attached to the South Los Angeles area has translated to place specific forms of inequality. We take advantage of the consistency in the boundaries the Census used to collect data in the area from 1960 to 2016 to test hypotheses about the relative importance of race, place, and economic class in the Los Angeles region. The analysis revolves around three themes critical to furthering equality: housing, employment, and transportation. We find that the significance of place has changed significantly over the course of half a century without ever disappearing. In each of the themes we study, the significance of the factors we highlight changes, but South Los Angeles remains disadvantaged relative to the region.
Longitudinal Weight Outcomes From a Behavioral Lifestyle Intervention in Clinical Practice
Authors: Romanelli Robert J. , Huang Hsiao-Ching , Chopra Vidita , Ma Jun , Venditti Elizabeth M. , Sudat Sylvia , Greenwood Deborah A. , Pressman Alice R. , Azar Kristen M. J.
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this electronic health record (EHR)–based retrospective cohort study was to characterize a population of patients participating in a 12-month, lifestyle change program in a community-based health system and to examine longitudinal weight outcomes.

Methods

Program participants were identified in the EHRs of a health care delivery system across 18 sites between 2010 and 2017. Outcomes were mean weight change and proportion of patients with ≥5% weight loss through 24 months from program initiation.

Results

Among 4463 program participants, 3156 met study eligibility criteria, with a mean ± SD age of 53.5 ± 13.1 years; 77.7% were women. Mean baseline weight ± SD was 101.3 ± 23.8 kg. Three main cardiometabolic risk groups were identified: prediabetes/high risk for diabetes (47.3%), overweight/obese in the absence of elevated diabetes risk (27.2%), and existing diabetes (23.9%). Maximal mean weight loss was 3.9% at 6 months from baseline. At 12 and 24 months from baseline, mean weight loss was 3.2% and 2.3%, respectively, with 31% and 29% of participants attaining ≥5% weight loss. Long-term weight outcomes were similar across risk groups.

Conclusions

A lifestyle change program in a clinical practice setting is associated with modest weight loss, sustained through 24 months, among participants with a range of cardiometabolic risk factors. More than one-quarter of participants achieve ≥5% weight loss, regardless of cardiometabolic risk.
Esophageal Transit Times Vary with Underlying Comorbid Disease
Authors: Miles Anna , Bennett Kirany , Allen Jacqui
Published: September 2019

Objectives

Little is known about esophageal transit times (ETT) in relation to underlying comorbid disease or aspiration risk. Our study evaluated liquid ETT in patients relative to underlying comorbid disease and compared this with ETT in healthy adults. We examined whether prolonged ETT was associated with swallow risk.

Study Design

Prospective observational study.

Setting

Radiology department.

Subjects

Patients included those referred to speech pathology for a videofluoroscopic study of swallowing (VFSS) within a tertiary hospital.

Methods

A total of 617 patients (49% female; mean ± SD age, 77 ± 15 years) and 139 healthy adults (56% female; age, 59 ± 22 years) were included. All patients underwent a standardized VFSS with esophageal screening. Patients were categorized by chief underlying disorder: previous stroke (n = 207), other neurologic condition (n = 188), respiratory conditions (n = 91), or gastroenterology conditions (n = 131). All VFSSs were analyzed with objective measures. ETT and penetration‐aspiration scores were compared between groups.

Results

Advancing age was significantly associated with increased ETT (P <. 05). When controlling for age, mean 20‐mL ETT remained significantly different across groups: healthy adults, 11 seconds; stroke, 17 seconds; other neurologic condition, 15 seconds; gastroenterology, 14 seconds; and respiratory, 9 seconds (P <. 001). One‐third of patients aspirated; no healthy adults aspirated. Increasing ETT was associated with aspiration events (P <. 001).

Conclusions

Liquid ETTs differ among patients with different underlying primary diagnoses. Patients following stroke show significantly prolonged ETT and increased risk of aspiration. Prolonged ETT may influence symptom complaint and warrants consideration.