bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction of thermal sensation using low-cost infrared array sensors monitoring system
Authors: Wu Yuxin , Liu Hong , Li Baizhan , Kosonen Risto
Published: October 2019

Using skin temperature to predict thermal comfort typically results in higher accuracy of thermal comfort prediction compared to other methods, however, such nonintrusive thermo-graphic cameras with high resolution/accuracy are more expensive compared to the thermistors with single point. Thus, a low-cost (and low resolution) thermal camera MLX90640 was studied in this study to predict individual thermal comfort, and compared with the prediction results from high accuracy thermocouple at single point of somewhere of localized body skin. Results show that the low-cost (low resolution) infrared camera (MLX90640) with accuracy of ± 2 °C and resolution of 32 × 24 pixels is able to be used to predict thermal sensation with a performance better than skin temperature measure system including thermocouples at different points of skin with an accuracy of ±0.15 °C. And the performance of infrared camera (MLX90640) is as good as the performance of environmental air temperature sensor with accuracy of ±0.10 °C. Thus, the usage of low-cost (and low resolution) thermal camera to predict individual thermal comfort worth to be further studied.
Sociopolitical Externalities Impacting Worker Health in Washington State’s Cannabis Industry
Authors: Ehrlich Trecia , Simpson Christopher , Busch Isaksen Tania
Published: October 2019

Objectives

The legalization of the production, sale, and possession of cannabis in Washington State in 2012 not only created the framework for a new legal industry, but also for a new regulated labor sector. In addition to typical occupational health and safety hazards associated with chemical and physical exposures, the transition from an illicit to a regulated workplace, the inconsistency between state and federal law, and the production of a unique psychoactive commodity crop that maintains value in the illicit marketplace creates a unique work environment with workplace concerns that are political, economic, and social in nature.

Methods

We conducted a combination of semistructured key informant interviews targeted toward employers, focus groups that engaged employees, and an online survey with cannabis business owners and employees to identify concerns relating to worker health and safety.

Results

In addition to physical and chemical hazards related to their workplace, workers described health concerns that were a result of social, economic, and political forces facing the transitioning cannabis industry and resulting from an inconsistency between state and federal law. Important themes that emerged from these data included the legal and regulatory environment that the cannabis industry faces, cannabis as an agricultural good, crime, gender, cannabis consumption in the workplace, changing worker demographics, and emerging technologies in this rapidly evolving industry.

Conclusions

The unique sociopolitical challenges for occupational health and safety that we identified among cannabis workers in Washington State are especially relevant as other states and nations follow the example of Washington State in legalizing the widespread commercial cultivation, sale, and use of cannabis. As other states and nations legalize, it will be important for employers, public health practitioners, and regulators to recognize how transitioning from an illicit to a legal marketplace impacts worker health. Further, understanding the challenges that result in transitioning a cannabis workforce may be extrapolated in the future to better understand how transitioning other goods and services from an unregulated to a regulated marketplace may impact worker health.
Postoperative Venous Thromboembolism Prophylaxis Utilizing Enoxaparin Does Not Increase Bleeding Complications After Abdominal Body Contouring Surgery
Authors: Vasilakis Vasileios , Klein Gabriel M , Trostler Michael , Mukit Muntazim , Marquez Jocellie E , Dagum Alexander B , Pannucci Christopher J , Khan Sami U
Published: October 2019

Background

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) chemoprophylaxis warrants an individualized, risk-stratified approach, and constitutes a relatively controversial topic in plastic surgery.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine the safety of a 7-day postoperative enoxaparin regimen for VTE prophylaxis compared with a single preoperative dose of heparin in abdominal body contouring surgery.

Methods

This single-institution pre-post study investigated the safety of a 7-day enoxaparin postoperative regimen in abdominal body contouring procedures performed by a single surgeon from 2007 to 2018. Four procedures were included: traditional panniculectomy, abdominoplasty, fleur-de-lis panniculectomy, and body contouring liposuction. Group I patients received a single dose of 5000 U subcutaneous heparin in the preoperative period, and no postoperative chemical prophylaxis was administered. Group II patients received 40 mg subcutaneous enoxaparin in the immediate preoperative period, then once daily for 7 days postoperatively.

Results

A total of 195 patients were included in the study, 66 in Group I and 129 in Group II. The groups demonstrated statistically similar VTE risk profiles, based on the 2005 Caprini risk-assessment model. There were no statistically significant differences in the 2 primary outcomes: postoperative bleeding and VTE events. Group I patients had higher reoperation rates (22.7% vs 10.1%, P = 0.029), which was secondary to higher rates of revision procedures.

Conclusions

A 7-day postoperative course of once-daily enoxaparin for VTE risk reduction in abdominal body contouring surgery does not significantly increase the risk of bleeding. Implementation of this regimen for postdischarge chemoprophylaxis, when indicated following individualized risk stratification, is appropriate.

Level of Evidence: 4
Central Tunnel Technique and Fat Grafting for Surgical Correction of Inverted Nipples and Introduction of a Treatment Algorithm
Authors: Kalaaji Amin , Dreyer Stine , Jönsson Vanja , Schnegg Jakob , Orejuela Ileana , Maric Ivana , Vadseth Line
Published: October 2019

Background

Inverted nipples are prevalent in 3% to 10% of women and can often cause functional, psychological, and aesthetic problems.

Objectives

The authors sought to treat inverted nipples and restore the aesthetic appearance of the nipple while minimizing ductal disruption, preserving the ability to breast-feed, and reducing recurrence rates.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed on a total of 161 inverted nipples in 86 consecutive patients who underwent correction of inverted nipples at Oslo Plastic Surgery Clinic. Mean age at operation was 28.7 years and mean follow-up period was 14 months. A novel technique with central tunnelization of the retracted fibers/ducts was employed in 39 patients (45%); partial incision of the center of the inversion through a tunnel in 31 patients (36%); and total cut of the lactiferous ducts in 16 patients (19%). Fat grafting was utilized as support in 14 patients (26 nipples). Postoperatively, nipples were suspended for 4 weeks with a manually constructed device.

Results

Most patients had moderate (grade 2, 40 patients) or severe (grade 3, 52 patients) nipple inversion. Infection occurred in 4 patients and 2 patients had local irritation. Recurrence was seen in 32 patients (55 nipples) after the first operation, in 6 patients (6 nipples) after the second operation, and in 1 patient (1 nipple) after the third operation.

Conclusions

The authors propose a treatment algorithm that addresses important therapeutic goals when treating inverted nipples. Clinical examination is crucial to determine the method to be employed. The new central tunnel method and fat grafting to support the nipple are promising, although additional follow-up is necessary.

Level of Evidence: 4
Determination of Thiafentanil in Plasma Using LC–MS
Authors: Cox Sherry , Bergman Joan , Allender Matthew C , Beckmen Kimberlee , Lance William
Published: October 2019

A new method of analysis has been developed and validated for the determination of thiafentanil in plasma. After protein precipitation, samples were separated on an XBridge BEH C18 column and quantified using mass spectrometry. The mobile phase was a mixture of water with 0.1% formic acid and acetonitrile with 0.1% formic acid (90:10). The standard curve ranged from 0.1 to 25 ng/mL. Intra- and Inter-assay variability for thiafentanil was less than 10%, and the average recovery was greater than 95%. The lower limit of quantification was 0.1 ng/mL. This is the first validated method for thiafentanil analysis in plasma.
Development of a Novel Thin-Layer Chromatographic Method of Screening the Red Beet (Beta vulgaris L.) Pigments in Alimentary Products
Authors: Łata Eliza , Fulczyk Agnieszka , Kowalska Teresa , Sajewicz Mieczysław
Published: October 2019

The aim of this study was to develop a thin-layer chromatographic method of qualitative analysis, aiming to confirm the presence of the red beetroot pigments in a given sample. The TLC system developed for this purpose consists of the precoated RP-18 F254s TLC plates and the acetonitrile + methanol + water + glacial acetic acid, 2:7:1:0.1 (v/v/v/v) mobile phase. With the use of this system, a striking horizontal separation of betacyanin pigments is obtained for both the red beetroot juice and the commercial betanin sample (with the left-to-right resolution distance of the two bands equal to ca. 6 mm), and a unique pattern of the two skewed chromatographic bands is observed. This striking phenomenon has been given a thorough consideration, and its tentative physicochemical justification was provided, based on analogical cases reported and extensively discussed in our earlier studies. Characteristic fingerprint obtained both for the beetroot juice and the commercial sample of betanin (resembling two slant butterfly wings) can prove very helpful for qualitative confirmation of the presence (or otherwise) of the betanin pigment in the red color juices and beverages, as it was demonstrated upon an example of elderberry juice with a confirmed fortification with the betanin pigment.
Sodium Selenium Enhances the Antioxidative Activities and Immune Functions of Apis mellifera (Hymenoptera: Apidae) and Increases the Selenium Content in Royal Jelly
Authors: Chi Xuepeng , Wei Wei , Zhang Weixing , Liu Zhenguo , Wang Hongfang , Xu Baohua
Published: October 2019

Selenium (Se), as an essential micronutrient, has been demonstrated to play an important role in life activities. In this study, we studied the effects of sucrose solutions containing sodium selenite on Apis mellifera (L.). We obtained the appropriate level of sodium selenite for A. mellifera by determining the life span by lab rearing, and then, we studied the effects of sodium selenite on antioxidant activity, phenol oxidase activity, development of the hypopharyngeal gland, Se content of body tissues and royal jelly (RJ), and related gene transcription levels for a bee colony. The results of lab rearing showed that a concentration of 0.57 mg/liter sodium selenium could extend life. After feeding the colony sodium selenium at concentrations of 0.3 mg/liter and 0.6 mg/liter, the results showed that 0.6 mg/liter sodium selenite could enhance the antioxidant and immune activity of 6-d-old larvae and 1-d-old and 9-d-old worker bees (P < 0.05), increase the Se content of body tissues (P < 0.05) and RJ (P < 0.05), and improve the expression of related genes (P < 0.05).
On the Pacific Salmon Treaty*
Authors: Jiang Shenzhe , Zhang Yuzhe
Published: October 2019

This paper studies the optimal design of the Pacific Salmon Treaty, which was signed by the U.S. and Canada in 1999 to share salmon on the Pacific coast. Moral hazard exists because countries may steal from each other. If a country’s observed output is suspiciously too high, the treaty either reduces the country’s future share, or asks the country to make a monetary transfer to its opponent. A calibrated version of our model shows that it is optimal for the U.S. to pay Canada $328.93 million every 30.78 years. Switching to the optimal contract improves the total welfare by 1.55%.
Danger to the Old Lady of Threadneedle Street? The Bank Restriction Act and the regime shift to paper money, 1797–1821
Authors: O'Brien Patrick K , Palma Nuno
Published: October 2019

The Bank Restriction Act of 1797 was the unconventional monetary policy of its time. It suspended the convertibility of the Bank of England's notes into gold, a policy that lasted until 1821. The current historical consensus is that it was a result of the state's need to finance the war, France’s remonetization, a loss of confidence in the English country banks, and a run on the Bank of England’s reserves following a landing of French troops in Wales. We argue that while these factors help us understand the timing of the suspension, they cannot explain its success. We deploy new long-term data that leads us to a complementary explanation: the policy succeeded thanks to the reputation of the Bank of England, achieved through a century of prudential collaboration between the Bank and the Treasury.
Genomic Basis of Convergent Island Phenotypes in Boa Constrictors
Authors: Card Daren C , Adams Richard H , Schield Drew R , Perry Blair W , Corbin Andrew B , Pasquesi Giulia I M , Row Kristopher , Van Kleeck Melissa J , Daza Juan M , Booth Warren , Montgomery Chad E , Boback Scott M , Castoe Todd A
Published: October 2019

Convergent evolution is often documented in organisms inhabiting isolated environments with distinct ecological conditions and similar selective regimes. Several Central America islands harbor dwarf Boa populations that are characterized by distinct differences in growth, mass, and craniofacial morphology, which are linked to the shared arboreal and feast-famine ecology of these island populations. Using high-density RADseq data, we inferred three dwarf island populations with independent origins and demonstrate that selection, along with genetic drift, has produced both divergent and convergent molecular evolution across island populations. Leveraging whole-genome resequencing data for 20 individuals and a newly annotated Boa genome, we identify four genes with evidence of phenotypically relevant protein-coding variation that differentiate island and mainland populations. The known roles of these genes involved in body growth (PTPRS, DMGDH, and ARSB), circulating fat and cholesterol levels (MYLIP), and craniofacial development (DMGDH and ARSB) in mammals link patterns of molecular evolution with the unique phenotypes of these island forms. Our results provide an important genome-wide example for quantifying expectations of selection and convergence in closely related populations. We also find evidence at several genomic loci that selection may be a prominent force of evolutionary change—even for small island populations for which drift is predicted to dominate. Overall, while phenotypically convergent island populations show relatively few loci under strong selection, infrequent patterns of molecular convergence are still apparent and implicate genes with strong connections to convergent phenotypes.
The Sequence of Physical and Cognitive Impairment and the Association with Mortality Among Unimpaired Older Mexican Adults
Authors: Downer Brian , Milani Sadaf , Wong Rebeca
Published: October 2019

Background

Many older adults become physically and cognitively impaired. However, it is unclear whether unimpaired older adults are more likely to become physically or cognitively impaired first and if this sequence impacts mortality risk.

Methods

Data came from the Mexican Health and Aging Study. The sample included 1,283 participants aged ≥60 years who were physically and cognitively unimpaired in 2001. Multinomial logistic regression was used to estimate probabilities of being unimpaired, cognitively impaired only, physically impaired only, or cognitively-physically impaired in 2003. Proportional hazard models were used to estimate mortality risk through 2015 according to physical and cognitive status in 2003.

Results

The probabilities for being unimpaired, physically impaired only, cognitively impaired only, and cognitively-physically impaired in 2003 were 0.45, 0.22, 0.19, and 0.13, respectively. Older age, female sex, and arthritis were associated with significantly greater probability of becoming physically impaired only than cognitively impaired only in 2003. Cognitive impairment only (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.42, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.09–1.85) in 2003 but not physical impairment only (HR = 1.22, 95% CI = 0.94–1.58) was associated with greater mortality than being unimpaired in 2003. Cognitively-physically impaired participants had higher mortality risk than participants who were physically (HR = 1.58, 95% CI = 1.18–2.12) or cognitively (HR = 1.36, 95% CI = 1.01–1.84) impaired only.

Discussion

The likelihood of becoming only physically or cognitively impaired over 2 years varies by demographic and health characteristics. The mortality risk for unimpaired older adults who become cognitively impaired only is similar to those who become physically impaired only. Research should determine if the sequence of cognitive and physical impairments is associated with other outcomes.
Impact of Different Sampling Schemes for Decision Making in Soil-Transmitted Helminthiasis Control Programs
Authors: Coffeng Luc E , Malizia Veronica , Vegvari Carolin , Cools Piet , Halliday Katherine E , Levecke Bruno , Mekonnen Zeleke , Gichuki Paul M , Sayasone Somphou , Sarkar Rajiv , Shaali Ame , Vlaminck Johnny , Anderson Roy M , de Vlas Sake J
Published: October 2019

Starting and stopping preventive chemotherapy (PC) for soil-transmitted helminthiasis is typically based on the prevalence of infection as measured by Kato-Katz (KK) fecal smears. Kato-Katz-based egg counts can vary highly over repeated stool samples and smears. Consequentially, the sensitivity of KK-based surveys depends on the number of stool samples per person and the number of smears per sample. Given finite resources, collecting multiple samples and/or smears means screening fewer individuals, thereby lowering the statistical precision of prevalence estimates. Using population-level data from various epidemiological settings, we assessed the performance of different sampling schemes executed within the confines of the same budget. We recommend the use of single-slide KK for determining prevalence of moderate-to-heavy intensity infection and policy decisions for starting and continuing PC; more sensitive sampling schemes may be required for policy decisions involving stopping PC. Our findings highlight that guidelines should include specific guidance on sampling schemes.
A retrospective study to determine the cefepime-induced neurotoxicity threshold in hospitalized patients
Authors: Lau Cindy , Marriott Deborah , Gould Michael , Andresen David , Reuter Stephanie E , Penm Jonathan
Published: October 2019

Objectives

Cefepime-induced neurotoxicity (CIN) has been demonstrated to be associated with cefepime plasma concentrations; however, the toxicity threshold remains unclear. The primary objective of this study was to identify the cefepime plasma trough concentration at which neurotoxicity occurs. Secondary objectives were to determine the incidence of CIN at a large tertiary institution and to identify patient factors associated with the development of CIN.

Methods

A retrospective review of all adult patients administered cefepime between October 2017 and May 2018 in a tertiary hospital was conducted to determine total incidence of CIN. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was constructed to review the sensitivity and specificity of using various cefepime trough plasma concentrations to predict the development of neurotoxicity. Cefepime plasma concentrations were measured using ultra-HPLC. A regression was conducted to identify patient factors associated with CIN.

Results

In total, 206 patients were administered 259 courses of cefepime, with an overall CIN incidence of 6% (16/259 courses). A total of 64 courses had a cefepime trough concentration measured (24.7%). A cefepime trough concentration of 36 mg/L provided the best differentiation between patients who experienced neurotoxicity and those who did not. No other patient covariates were identified to be significantly associated with neurotoxicity occurring.

Conclusions

A cefepime trough plasma concentration ≥36 mg/L appears to be the most sensitive and specific cut-off to predict CIN occurring. No patient factors were associated with the development of CIN when accounting for cefepime trough plasma concentrations.
Rediscovery of the sponge crab Cryptodromia fallax (Latreille in Milbert, 1812) (Decapoda: Brachyura: Dromiidae) at Mauritius, with the description of a new genus and the confirmation of an unusual seaweed-carrying camouflage mode
Authors: McLay Colin L
Published: October 2019

Cryptodromia fallax (Latreille in Milbert, 1812) has been serendipitously found again on the island of Mauritius, almost 200 yrs after its discovery. The new material provides new information about the structure of the female sternum, providing stronger evidence that a new genus, Alcockdromiagen. nov., is required. Observations show that this crab cuts out and carries pieces of seaweed in the manner of a paraglider, rather than pieces of sponge normally carried by dromiid crabs. The crab uses Ulva lactuca Linnaeus, a green alga, and Lobophora variegata (J.V. Lamouroux), a brown alga. This discovery shows that the last two prehensile dromiid pereopods, which are used to carry soft camouflage, are multi-purpose, having only minor structural differences allowing them to carry seaweeds.
Refugees and Guesthood in Turkey
Authors: Abdelaaty Lamis
Published: October 2019

Even as Turkey took in over 3 million Syrians at great expense, Turkish officials were referring to these individuals as guests rather than refugees. Despite significant legal developments in the country, and particularly the formalization of a temporary-protection regime, this choice of labels reveals the influence of underlying political trends on Turkish policymaking regarding refugees. This article compares Turkey’s reactions to the Syrian inflow with its responses to previous refugee groups, including Iraqis in 1988, Bosnians in 1992, Kosovars in 1998 and Chechens starting 1999. In so doing, it demonstrates that the refusal to designate certain populations as asylum seekers or refugees enables Turkey to opt in or out of what might otherwise appear to be generally applicable, national-level policies. Through these strategic semantics, policymakers retain a freedom to manoeuvre in response to international and domestic political incentives.
Fit for Purpose in Action: Design, Implementation, and Evaluation of the National Internet Flu Survey
Authors: Dever Jill A , Amaya Ashley , Srivastav Anup , Lu Peng-Jun , Roycroft Jessica , Stanley Marshica , Stringer M Christopher , Bostwick Michael G , Greby Stacie M , Santibanez Tammy A , Williams Walter W
Published: October 2019

Researchers strive to design and implement high-quality surveys to maximize the utility of the data collected. The definitions of quality and usefulness, however, vary from survey to survey and depend on the analytic needs. Survey teams must evaluate the trade-offs of various decisions, such as when results are needed and their required level of precision, in addition to practical constraints like budget, before finalizing the design. Characteristics within the concept of fit for purpose (FfP) can provide the framework for considering the trade-offs. Furthermore, this tool can enable an evaluation of quality for the resulting estimates. Implementation of a FfP framework in this context, however, is not straightforward.

In this article, we provide the reader with a glimpse of a FfP framework in action for obtaining estimates on early season influenza vaccination coverage estimates and on knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, and barriers related to influenza and influenza prevention among civilian noninstitutionalized adults aged 18 years and older in the United States. The result is the National Internet Flu Survey (NIFS), an annual, two-week internet survey sponsored by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In addition to critical design decisions, we use the established NIFS FfP framework to discuss the quality of the NIFS in meeting the intended objectives. We highlight aspects that work well and other survey traits requiring further evaluation. Differences found in comparing the NIFS to the National Flu Survey, the National Health Interview Survey, and Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System are discussed via their respective FfP characteristics. The findings presented here highlight the importance of the FfP framework for designing surveys, defining data quality, and providing a set a metrics used to advertise the intended use of the survey data and results.
Near-infrared monitoring of the accretion outburst in the massive young stellar object S255-NIRS3
Authors: Uchiyama Mizuho , Yamashita Takuya , Sugiyama Koichiro , Nakaoka Tatsuya , Kawabata Miho , Itoh Ryosuke , Yamanaka Masayuki , Akitaya Hiroshi , Kawabata Koji , Yonekura Yoshinori , Saito Yu , Motogi Kazuhito , Fujisawa Kenta
Published: October 2019

We followed up the massive young stellar object S255-NIRS3 (= S255-IRS1b) during its recent accretion outburst event in the $K_{\rm s}$ band with Kanata/HONIR for four years after its burst and obtained a long-term light curve. This is the most complete near-infrared light curve of the S255-NIRS3 burst event that has ever been presented. The light curve showed a steep increase reaching a peak flux that was 3.4 mag brighter than the quiescent phase and then a relatively moderate year-scale fading until the last observation, similar to that of the accretion burst events such as EXors found in lower-mass young stellar objects. The behavior of the $K_{\rm s}$-band light curve is similar to that observed in 6.7 GHz class II methanol maser emission, with a sudden increase followed by moderate year-scale fading. However, the maser emission peaks appear 30–50 d earlier than that of the $K_{\rm s}$ band emission. The similarities confirmed that the origins of the maser emission and the $K_{\rm s}$-band continuum emission are common, as previously shown from other infrared and radio observations by Stecklum et al. (2016, Astronomer’s Telegram, 8732), Caratti o Garatti et al. (2017b, Nature Phys., 13, 276), and Moscadelli et al. (2017, A&A, 600, L8). However, the differences in energy transfer paths, such as the exciting/emitting/scattering structures, may cause the delay in the flux-peak dates.
“Looking Mexican”: Indigenous and non-Indigenous Latina/o Immigrants and the Racialization of Illegality in the Midwest
Authors: Gómez Cervantes Andrea
Published: October 2019

Immigration laws, judiciary hearings, and enforcement strategies produce the racialization of illegality, linking “illegality” to homogenized and stereotypical images of “Mexican,” “Hispanic,” and “Latina/o” origin. Immigration scholars have shown the transgressions produced by the racialization of illegality on Latina/o immigrants and non-immigrants who fit these stereotypes. How do Latina/o immigrants of different ethnic origins navigate the racialization of illegality? What strategies do they employ to manage risks associated with illegality? Through 61 interviews with Indigenous-origin and non-Indigenous Latina/o immigrants in Kansas between 2016 to 2019, this study examines the salience of race and the active role that the body plays within Latina/o immigrants’ experiences with the immigration regime. I find that immigrants actively employ the body as a resource to navigate illegality, particularly in a context where Latina/os make up a smaller share of a white-majority population. The racialization of illegality brings social divisions within Latina/o groups, reproducing centuries-old systems of oppression where whiteness is equated with protections given to citizens, while “looking Mexican” or “Hispanic” leaves Indigenous-origin immigrants and non-white Latina/os at the hands of immigration control. This research contributes to scholars’ call to further explore the role of race and the body in immigration processes.
The leaf miner Phyllocnistis populiella negatively impacts water relations in aspen
Authors: Wagner Diane , Wheeler Jenifer M , Burr Stephen J
Published: October 2019

Within the North American boreal forest, a widespread outbreak of the epidermal leaf miner Phyllocnistis populiella Cham. has damaged quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.) for nearly 20 years. In a series of experiments, we tested the effects of feeding damage by P. populiella on leaf water relations and gas exchange. Relative to insecticide-treated trees, the leaves of naturally mined trees had lower photosynthesis, stomatal conductance to water vapor, transpiration, water-use efficiency, predawn water potential and water content, as well as more enriched foliar δ13C. The magnitude of the difference between naturally mined and insecticide-treated trees did not change significantly throughout the growing season, suggesting that the effect is not caused by accumulation of incidental damage to mined portions of the epidermis over time. The contributions of mining-related stomatal malfunction and cuticular transpiration to these overall effects were investigated by restricting mining damage to stomatous abaxial and astomatous adaxial leaf surfaces. Mining of the abaxial epidermis decreased photosynthesis and enriched leaf δ13C, while increasing leaf water potential and water content relative to unmined leaves, effects consistent with stomatal closure due to disfunction of mined guard cells. Mining of the adaxial epidermis also reduced photosynthesis but had different effects on water relations, reducing midday leaf water potential and water content relative to unmined leaves, and did not affect δ13C. In the laboratory, extent of mining damage to the adaxial surface was positively related to the rate of water loss by leaves treated to prevent water loss through stomata. We conclude that overall, despite water savings due to closure of mined stomata, natural levels of damage by P. populiella negatively impact water relations due to increased cuticular permeability to water vapor across the mined portions of the epidermis. Leaf mining by P. populiella could exacerbate the negative effects of climate warming and water deficit in interior Alaska.
Implications of Generational and Age Metastereotypes for Older Adults at Work: The Role of Agency, Stereotype Threat, and Job Search Self-efficacy
Authors: Weiss David , Perry Elissa L
Published: October 2019

This study explored how age compared with generational metastereotypes (i.e., what people think other people believe about their age group/generation) affect older adults’ sense of agency and stereotype threat and, consequently, their job search self-efficacy. We conducted an experiment including N = 183 participants between 50 and 79 years of age, asking respondents to think about either age or generational metastereotypes. We then explored the extent to which these metastereotypes influenced participants’ job search self-efficacy through perceptions of agency and age-based stereotype threat. First, results demonstrate that the impact of age compared with generational metastereotypes on perceived agency and age-based stereotype threat was moderated by respondent age, such that effects were only significant for older adults (60–79 years) but not middle-aged adults (50–59 years). Second, among older adults, perceptions of agency and stereotype threat mediated the effect of metastereotypes on job search self-efficacy. Our results suggest that encouraging older adults to identify with their generational membership in contrast to their age may positively influence perceptions of their ability to find a job and ultimately their actual job search behaviors.
Identification of Arthrinium marii as Causal Agent of Olive Tree Dieback in Apulia (Southern Italy)
Authors: Gerin Donato , Nigro Franco , Faretra Francesco , Pollastro Stefania
Published: October 2019

Olive (Olea europaea L. var. sativa) is one of the most economically important tree crops grown in the Mediterranean basin. Arthrinium Kunze ex Fr. (teleomorph: Apiospora Sacc.) is a widespread fungal genus, and Arthrinium marii Larrondo & Calvo is a ubiquitous species, found in algae, soil, plants, and agricultural communities. A. marii was isolated from olive trees showing dieback from orchards located in Andria and in Fasano, Brindisi (Apulia, southern Italy) and identified based on morphological features and molecular analysis of four genomic regions (ITS, TUB2, TEF1, and LSU). Two-year-old olive plants artificially inoculated with three representative A. marii isolates showed complete dieback within 6 months, and the fungus was reisolated, satisfying Koch’s postulates. This is the first report of A. marii causing dieback on olive trees that could represent an important threat for olive cultivation.
Resilience to dominant genetic disease in the healthy elderly
Authors: Lacaze Paul , Sebra Robert , Riaz Moeen , Tiller Jane , Revote Jerico , Phung James , Parker Emily J , Orchard Suzanne G , Lockery Jessica E , Wolfe Rory , Strahl Maya , Wang Ying C , Chen Rong , Sisco Daniel , Arnold Todd , Thompson Bryony A , Buchanan Daniel D , Macrae Finlay A , James Paul A , Abhayaratna Walter P , Lockett Trevor J , Gibbs Peter , Tonkin Andrew M , Nelson Mark R , Reid Christopher M , Woods Robyn L , Murray Anne M , Winship Ingrid , McNeil John J , Schadt Eric
Published: October 2019

Here we describe genomic screening of the healthy elderly to identify those resilient to adult-onset genetic disease, despite being at exceptionally high genetic risk. We sequenced 13,131 individuals aged 70 or older (mean age 75 years) from the ASPirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly (ASPREE) trial. Participants had no prior history of cardiovascular disease, life-threatening cancer, persistent physical disability or dementia. We compared the prevalence of pathogenic variants in medically actionable autosomal dominant disease genes with that from the UK Biobank population, and assessed their clinical impact using personal medical history and adjudicated study outcomes during 4.5 years of follow-up. The frequency of pathogenic variants was less than reported among the younger UK Biobank population, suggesting these variants confer a survival disadvantage during the middle years of life. Yet we identified 141 individuals with pathogenic variants free of any associated disease up to average age 79.5 years. Further study of these elderly resilient individuals might help uncover genetic mechanisms that protect against the development of disease.
German Recommendations for Physical Activity and Physical Activity Promotion in Adults with Noncommunicable Diseases
Authors: Geidl Wolfgang , Abu-Omar Karim , Weege Mayra , Messing Sven , Pfeifer Klaus
Published: October 2019

Background

The objective of this study was to develop evidence-based recommendations for physical activity (PA) and PA promotion for German adults (18–65 years) with noncommunicable diseases (NCDs).

Methods

The PA recommendations were developed based on existing PA recommendations and using a three-phased process. In phase 1, systematic literature searches were conducted for current PA recommendations for seven chronic conditions (osteoarthrosis of the hip and knee, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, stable ischemic heart disease, stroke, clinical depression, and chronic non-specific back pain). In phase 2, the PA recommendations were evaluated on the basis of 28 quality criteria. High-quality recommendations were identified, and a content analysis was conducted on these recommendations. In phase 3, the findings of the content analysis were summarised, and PA recommendations for seven chronic conditions were deducted. The seven recommendations were then synthesised to generate generic German PA recommendations for adults with noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). In relation to the recommendations for PA promotion, a systematic literature review was conducted on papers that reviewed the efficacy/effectiveness of interventions for PA promotion in adults with NCDs.

Results

The German Recommendations for Physical Activity state that adults with NCDs should, over the course of a week, should do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic PA, or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic PA, or a combination of both. Furthermore, muscle-strengthening activities should be performed at least twice a week. The promotion of PA among adults with NCDs should be theory-based, specifically target PA behaviour, and be tailored to the respective target group. In this context, and as an intervention method, exercise referral schemes are one of the more promising methods of promoting PA in adults with NCDs.

Conclusion

The development of evidence-based recommendations for PA and PA promotion is an important step in terms of the initiation and implementation of actions for PA-related health promotion in Germany. The German Recommendations for PA and PA promotion inform adults affected by NCDs and health professionals on how much PA would be optimal for adults with NCDs. Additionally, the recommendations provide professionals entrusted in PA promotion the best strategies and interventions to raise low PA levels in adults with NCDs. The formulation of specific PA recommendations for adults with NCDs and their combination with recommendations on PA promotion is a unique characteristic of the German recommendations.
Diffusion Histology Imaging to Improve Lesion Detection and Classification in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Ye Zezhong , George Ajit , Wu Anthony T. , Niu Xuan , Lin Joshua , Adusumilli Gautam , Cross Anne H. , Sun Peng , Song Sheng-Kwei
Published: October 2019

Background

Diagnosing MS through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) requires extensive clinical experience and tedious work. Furthermore, MRI-indicated MS lesion locations rarely align with the patients’ symptoms and often contradict with pathology studies. Our lab has developed and modified a novel diffusion basis spectrum imaging (DBSI) technique to address the shortcomings of MRI-based MS diagnoses. Although primary DBSI metrics have been demonstrated to be associated with axonal injury/loss, demyelination and inflammation, a more detailed analysis using multiple DBSI-structural metrics to improve the accuracy of MS lesion detection and differentiation is still needed. Here we report that Diffusion Histology Imaging (DHI), an improved approach that combines a deep neural network (DNN) algorithm with improved DBSI analyses, accurately detected and classified various MS lesion types.

Methods

Thirty-eight multiple sclerosis patients were scanned with T2-weighted imaging (T2WI) using fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR), T1-weighted imaging (T1WI) using magnetization-prepared rapid acquisition with gradient echo (MPRAGE), magnetization transfer contrast (MTR) imaging and diffusion-weighted imaging. The imaging results identified 43,261 voxels from 91 persistent black hole (PBH) lesions, 89 persistent gray hole (PGH) lesions, 16 acute gray hole (AGH) lesions, 189 non-black hole (NBH) lesions and 113 normal-appearing white matter (NAWM) areas. Data extracted from these lesions were randomly split into training, validation, and testing groups with an 8:1:1 ratio. The DNN was constructed with 10 fully-connected hidden layers using TensorFlow 2.0 in Python. Batch normalization and dropout regularization were used for model optimization.

Results

Each MS lesion type had unique DBSI derived diffusion metric profiles. Based on these DBSI diffusion metric profiles, DHI achieved a 93.6% overall concordance with neurologist determinations of all five MS lesions, compared with 74.3% from conventional MRI (cMRI)-DNN model, 78.2% from MTR-DNN model, and 80% from DTI-DNN model. DHI also achieved greater performances on detecting individual MS lesion types compared to other models. Specifically, DHI showed great performances on prediction of PBH (AUC: 0.991; F1-score: 0.923), PGH (AUC: 0.977; F1-score: 0.823) and AGH (AUC: 0.987; F1-score: 0.887), which significantly outperformed other models.

Conclusions

DHI significantly improves the detection and classification accuracy for various MS lesion types, which could greatly aid the clinical decisions of neurologists and neuroradiologists. The efficacy and efficiency of this DNN model shows great promise for clinical application.
Dissecting the association of C-reactive protein levels with PTSD, traumatic events, and social support
Authors: Carvalho Carolina Muniz , Wendt Frank R , Maihofer Adam X. , Stein Dan J. , Stein Murray B. , Sumner Jennifer A. , Hemmings Sian M. J. , Nievergelt Caroline M. , Koenen Karestan C. , Gelernter Joel , Belangero Sintia I , Polimanti Renato
Published: October 2019

Inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP) have been associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic experience, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. We investigated the association among CRP, PTSD, and traits related to traumatic events and social support using genome-wide data from the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium (30,000 cases and 170,000 controls), the UK Biobank (UKB; up to 117,900 individuals), and the CHARGE study (Cohorts for Heart and Aging Research in Genomic Epidemiology, 148,164 individual). Linkage disequilibrium score regression, polygenic risk scoring, and two-sample Mendelian randomization analyses were used to investigate genetic overlap and causal relationships. Genetic correlations of CRP were observed with PTSD (rg=0.16, p=0.026) and behavioral and emotional response to trauma, exposure to traumatic events, and the presence of social support (−0.28<rg<0.20; p<0.008). We observed a bidirectional association between CRP and PTSD (CRP→PTSD: β=0.065, p=0.015; PTSD→CRP: β=0.008, p=0.009). CRP also showed a negative association on the “felt loved as a child” trait (UKB, β=-0.017, p=0.008). Due to the known association of socioeconomic status (SES) on PTSD and social support, a multivariable MR was performed to investigate SES as potential mediator. We found that household income (univariate MR: β=-0.22, p=1.57×10−7; multivariate MR: β=-0.17, p=0.005) and deprivation index (univariate MR: β=0.38, p=1.63×10−9; multivariate MR: β=0.27, p=0.016) were driving the causal estimates of “felt loved as a child” and CRP on PTSD. The present findings highlight a bidirectional association between PTSD and CRP levels, also suggesting a potential role of SES in the interplay between childhood support and inflammatory processes with respect to PTSD risk.
Impact of a natural disaster on access to care and biopsychosocial outcomes among Hispanic/Latino cancer survivors
Authors: Rodriguez-Rabassa Mary , Hernandez Ruthmarie , Rodriguez Zindie , Colon-Echevarria Claudia B. , Maldonado Lizette , Tollinchi Nelmit , Torres Estefania , Mulero Adnil , Albors Daniela , Perez-Morales Jaileene , Flores Idhaliz , Jim Heather , Castro Eida M. , Armaiz-Pena Guillermo N.
Published: October 2019

Cancer is the leading cause of death in Puerto Rico (PR). Hurricane Maria (HM) and its aftermath lead to widespread devastation in the island, including the collapse of the healthcare system. Medically fragile populations, such as cancer survivors, were significantly affected. The goal of this study was to assess the impact of HM on barriers to care, emotional distress, and inflammatory biomarkers among cancer survivors in PR. This exploratory longitudinal study was conducted in health care facilities and community support groups from PR. Cancer survivors (n=50) and non-cancer participants (n=50) completed psychosocial questionnaires and provided blood samples that were used to assess inflammatory cytokines levels. Data were analyzed through descriptive, frequencies, correlational, and linear regression analyses. Cancer survivors that were affected by HM reported increased barriers in accessing medical care, which were directly associated with anxiety, perceived stress, and post-traumatic symptomatology. Moreover, being a cancer survivor, along with closeness in time from HM predicted more barriers to receiving health care. Several inflammatory cytokines, such as CD31, BDNF, TFF3, Serpin E-1, Vitamin D BP, VCAM-1, Osteopontin, Chitinase 3 like 1, MMP-9 and MIF were significantly upregulated in cancer survivors while BDNF, MMP9 and Osteopontin had significant positive correlations with barriers to care. HM significantly impacted Puerto Ricans psychosocial well-being. Cancer survivors had significant barriers to care and showed increased serum inflammatory cytokines, but didn’t show differences in anxiety, stress and post-traumatic symptoms compared to non-cancer participants.
Effects of combining constraint-induced movement therapy and action-observation training on upper limb kinematics in children with unilateral cerebral palsy: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Simon-Martinez Cristina , Mailleux Lisa , Jaspers Ellen , Ortibus Els , Desloovere Kaat , Klingels Katrijn , Feys Hilde
Published: October 2019

Modified constraint-induced movement therapy (mCIMT) improves upper limb (UL) motor execution in unilateral cerebral palsy (uCP). As these children also show motor planning deficits, action-observation training (AOT) might be of additional value. Here, we investigated the combined value of AOT to mCIMT on UL kinematics in children with uCP. Thirty-six children with uCP completed an UL kinematic evaluation after participating in a 9-day mCIMT camp wearing a splint for 6 hours/day. The experimental group (mCIMT+AOT, n=20) received 15 hours of AOT, i.e. video-observation and execution of unimanual tasks. The control group (mCIMT+placebo, n=16) watched biological-motion free videos and executed the same tasks. We examined changes in motor control (movement duration, peak velocity, time-to-peak velocity, and trajectory straightness) and movement patterns (using Statistical Parametric Mapping) during the execution of three unimanual, relevant tasks before the intervention, after and at 6 months follow-up. Adding AOT to mCIMT mainly affected movement duration during reaching, whereas little benefit is seen on UL movement patterns. mCIMT, with or without AOT, improved peak velocity and trajectory straightness, and proximal movement patterns. These results highlight the importance of including kinematics in an UL evaluation to capture changes in motor control and movement patterns of the proximal joints.