bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Copy number variation in plasma as a tool for lung cancer prediction using Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) classifier
Authors: Yu Daping , Liu Zhidong , Su Chongyu , Han Yi , Duan XinChun , Zhang Rui , Liu Xiaoshuang , Yang Yang , Xu Shaofa
Published: November 2019

Background

The main cause of cancer death is lung cancer (LC) which usually presents at an advanced stage, but its early detection would increase the benefits of treatment. Blood is particularly favored in clinical research given the possibility of using it for relatively noninvasive analyses. Copy number variation (CNV) is a common genetic change in tumor genomes, and many studies have indicated that CNV‐derived cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) from plasma could be feasible as a biomarker for cancer diagnosis.

Methods

In this study, we determined the possibility of using chromosomal arm‐level CNV from cfDNA as a biomarker for lung cancer diagnosis in a small cohort of 40 patients and 41 healthy controls. Arm‐level CNV distributions were analyzed based on z score, and the machine‐learning algorithm Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) was applied for cancer prediction.

Results

The results showed that amplifications tended to emerge on chromosomes 3q, 8q, 12p, and 7q. Deletions were frequently detected on chromosomes 22q, 3p, 5q, 16q, 10q, and 15q. Upon applying a trained XGBoost classifier, specificity and sensitivity of 100% were finally achieved in the test group (12 patients and 13 healthy controls). In addition, five‐fold cross‐validation proved the stability of the model. Finally, our results suggested that the integration of four arm‐level CNVs and the concentration of cfDNA into the trained XGBoost classifier provides a potential method for detecting lung cancer.

Conclusion

Our results suggested that the integration of four arm‐level CNVs and the concentration from of cfDNA integrated withinto the trained XGBoost classifier could become provides a potentially method for detecting lung cancer detection.

Key points

Significant findings of the study:

Healthy individuals have different arm‐level CNV profiles from cancer patients.

Amplifications tend to emerge on chromosome 3q, 8q, 12p, 7q and deletions tend to emerge on chromosome 22q, 3p, 5q, 16q, 10q, 15q.

What this study adds:

CfDNA concentration, arm 10q, 3q, 8q, 3p, and 22q are key features for prediction.

Trained XGBoost classifier is a potential method for lung cancer detection.
Genomic regions influencing intramuscular fat in divergently selected rabbit lines
Authors: Sosa‐Madrid Bolívar S. , Hernández Pilar , Blasco Agustín , Haley Chris S. , Fontanesi Luca , Santacreu María A. , Pena Romi N. , Navarro Pau , Ibáñez‐Escriche Noelia
Published: November 2019

Intramuscular fat (IMF) is one of the main meat quality traits for breeding programmes in livestock species. The main objective of this study was to identify genomic regions associated with IMF content comparing two rabbit populations divergently selected for this trait, and to generate a list of putative candidate genes. Animals were genotyped using the Affymetrix Axiom OrcunSNP Array (200k). After quality control, the data involved 477 animals and 93 540 SNPs. Two methods were used in this research: single marker regressions with the data adjusted by genomic relatedness, and a Bayesian multiple marker regression. Associated genomic regions were located on the rabbit chromosomes (OCU) OCU1, OCU8 and OCU13. The highest value for the percentage of the genomic variance explained by a genomic region was found in two consecutive genomic windows on OCU8 (7.34%). Genes in the associated regions of OCU1 and OCU8 presented biological functions related to the control of adipose cell function, lipid binding, transportation and localisation (APOLD1, PLBD1, PDE6H, GPRC5D and GPRC5A) and lipid metabolic processes (MTMR2). The EWSR1 gene, underlying the OCU13 region, is linked to the development of brown adipocytes. The findings suggest that there is a large component of polygenic effect behind the differences in IMF content in these two lines, as the variance explained by most of the windows was low. The genomic regions of OCU1, OCU8 and OCU13 revealed novel candidate genes. Further studies would be needed to validate the associations and explore their possible application in selection programmes.
Aromatase inhibitors and selective estrogen receptor modulators: Unconventional therapies for functional hypogonadism?
Authors: Awouters Marijke , Vanderschueren Dirk , Antonio Leen
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Functional hypogonadism increases in prevalence due to aging as well as an overall increase of obesity. Aromatase inhibitors (AIs) and selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) could be an alternative for testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), but have not yet been established as common clinical practice.

Methods

We conducted a thorough search of the literature published between 2009 and 2018. Only RCTs published in English were included. We assessed the impact of AIs and SERMs on gonadal steroids, sexual function and semen parameters, body composition and glucose homeostasis, physical function, bone mineral density (BMD), anemia, as well as potential adverse effects.

Results

Twelve RCTs were included, with a total number of 645 patients. A total of 145 men were included in RCTs comparing AIs versus placebo or TRT and 476 men in RCTs with SERMs versus placebo or TRT. One RCT compared AIs versus SERMs in 24 men. Inclusion criteria were heterogenic. Most studies only included a small number of patients (range 11‐256) and follow‐up time was relatively short (6 weeks to 12 months). AIs as well as SERMs increased serum testosterone levels. Overall, there was no effect on sexual symptoms nor on semen parameters. Following aromatase inhibition, only minimal improvement of body composition and physical function was observed in some of the trials, but spinal BMD decreased. SERMs only induced a small improvement in body composition. The effect of SERMs on physical function and on BMD was not assessed. No major adverse effects occurred.

Conclusion

AIs are not recommended as treatment for functional hypogonadism because of insufficient efficacy as well as a decrease in BMD. SERMs might be an alternative for TRT, but more research is needed to evaluate their effect on hypogonadal signs and symptoms, as well as on their long‐term safety profile.
RETURNS TO DEBT AND EQUITY IN FARM PRODUCER ORGANIZATIONS
Authors: GRASHUIS Jasper
Published: November 2019

While the capital structure irrelevance proposition is the point of departure in corporate finance, it is unknown if debt‐or‐equity decisions matter to farm producer organizations. To inform decisions of capital acquisition, a panel study is conducted to estimate the relationships of different types of debt (current, long‐term) and equity (allocated, unallocated) to the financial performance of 707 farm producer organizations in the United States during the 2005–2011 period. Using 3,120 observations, the panel analysis indicates net sales in period t is increased by $1.97, $9.59, and $4.01 with an addition of $1 in current debt, allocated equity, or unallocated equity in period t‐1. Furthermore, the magnitude of the positive relationship of an additional dollar of allocated (unallocated) equity to net income is estimated at $0.32 ($0.14). We thus reject the notion managers and directors of farm producer organizations should decide to use debt or equity with a coin toss.
Macrophages reprogram after ischemic stroke and promote efferocytosis and inflammation resolution in the mouse brain
Authors: Zhang Wenting , Zhao Jingyan , Wang Rongrong , Jiang Ming , Ye Qing , Smith Amanda D. , Chen Jun , Shi Yejie
Published: November 2019

Aims

Blood‐borne monocytes/macrophages infiltrate the brain in massive numbers after ischemic stroke, but their impact on poststroke brain injury and recovery remains elusive. This study examined the transcriptomic changes in monocytes/macrophages after ischemic stroke and the functional implications of these changes, particularly with regards to the contribution of these cells to the phagocytic clearance of dead/dying cells (efferocytosis) in the poststroke brain.

Methods

We performed whole‐genome RNA sequencing on the monocyte/macrophage population sorted from mouse brain and peripheral blood 5 days after permanent focal cerebral ischemia. In addition, the spatial and temporal profiles of macrophage efferocytosis were examined in vivo by immunohistochemistry 3‐7 days after brain ischemia.

Results

Robust transcriptomic changes occurred in monocytes/macrophages upon infiltrating the poststroke brain. Functional enrichment analysis revealed a transcriptome of brain macrophages that strongly favored efferocytic activity. A large number of efferocytosis‐related genes were upregulated in brain macrophages, the products of which are essential components involved in various steps of efferocytosis, such as chemotaxis, recognition of dead cells, engulfment, and processing of phagosomes. The efferocytic activity of brain macrophages were verified by immunohistochemistry, wherein Iba1‐labeled microglia/macrophages effectively cleared apoptotic neurons in the infarct during the subacute stage after brain ischemia. We also identified PPARγ and STAT6 as potential upstream regulators that shaped this proefferocytic and inflammation‐resolving transcriptome of macrophages in the poststroke brain.

Conclusion

Macrophages play a crucial role in the phagocytic clearance of dead neurons after ischemic stroke and promote the resolution of inflammation in the brain. Molecular therapies that enhance macrophage efferocytic capability may be promising treatments for ischemic stroke by facilitating inflammation resolution, brain repair, and recovery of neurological functions.
The impact of conductive hearing loss on balance
Authors: Horowitz Gilad , Ungar Omer J. , Levit Yael , Himmelfarb Mordechai , Handzel Ophir
Published: November 2019

Background

Balance is a complex process involving the coordinated activities of multiple sensory, motor and biomechanical components. Balance function may be disturbed in subjects suffering from hearing loss but the impairment has been attributed to the pathology underlying the hearing loss.

Aim

The purpose of the study was to investigate the possible interference of simulated conductive hearing loss with the ability to maintain postural balance.

Methods

Twenty normal‐hearing subjects, 20‐30 years old, underwent the computerised dynamic posturography test battery before and after plugging their external ear canals with earplugs, thus simulating a 40dB conductive hearing loss.

Results

Eighteen females and two males were tested before and after plugging their ear canals. Average CHL was 40 ± 4.9dB. The composite equilibrium score was significantly diminished after plugging the ears with an average sway score of 73.5% (P < .05, T = 2.27). The fourth test condition was specifically affected with an average sway score of 72.85% with earplugs (P < .05, T = 2.37).

Conclusions

Conductive hearing loss has a negative effect on balance. This can be theoretically explained by the association between hearing loss and saccular dysfunction.
Long‐term follow‐up of patients undergoing standardized bicycle exercise stress testing: new recommendations for grading of exercise capacity are clinically relevant
Authors: Lindow Thomas , Brudin Lars , Elmberg Viktor , Ekström Magnus
Published: November 2019

Introduction

A new grading of exercise capacity during bicycle stress testing has been proposed in Sweden based on the new reference material (‘the Kalmar material’), which has not been validated. We aimed to examine the prognostic information of the new grading of exercise capacity during exercise stress testing.

Methods

Data on all bicycle exercise tests performed at the Department of Clinical Physiology in Kalmar between May 2005 and October 2016 were cross‐linked with the Causes of Death Register (until 30 April 2019) and the National Patient Register (until 12 December 2017). Exercise capacity was graded based on predicted exercise capacity: ≥120% (good), 75 to <120% (normal), 70 to <75% (mildly reduced), 50 to <70% (moderately reduced) and <50% (severely reduced). Associations with all‐cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality and hospitalization for ischaemic heart disease (IHD) and heart failure were analysed using Cox regression.

Results

A total of 13 887 patients were followed a median of 7·7 years (interquartile range 5·0–10·8); 1809 patients died (546 from cardiovascular disease). Compared to normal exercise capacity, reduction of exercise capacity was strongly associated with increased all‐cause mortality [(hazard ratio; 95% confidence interval): mild (3·0; 2·6–3·5); moderate (4·4; 3·9–4·9); and severe reduction (8·5; 7·2–10·0)]. Reduced exercise capacity was also associated with increased risks of cardiovascular hospitalization and mortality.

Conclusion

Reduced exercise capacity is associated with increased all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality, as well as increased risk of future IHD and heart failure diagnosis and hospitalization. In patients with reduced exercise capacity, mortality is progressively increased with worsening grade of exercise capacity.
Cardiovascular changes in patients with mild‐to‐moderate chronic kidney disease compared with healthy subjects: a 5‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Asp Anna M. , Wallquist Carin , Rickenlund Anette , Hylander Britta , Jacobson Stefan H. , Caidahl Kenneth , Eriksson Maria J.
Published: November 2019

Background

There is limited knowledge about how cardiovascular parameters change over time in patients with mild‐to‐moderate chronic kidney disease (CKD). We studied several cardiovascular biomarkers over a 5‐year period in patients with mild‐to‐moderate CKD and in healthy controls.

Methods

Fifty‐four patients with CKD stages 2–3 and 54 controls were included. The CKD patients were closely monitored and well controlled for hypertension and other cardiovascular risk factors. Ambulatory blood pressure (BP) monitoring, ankle–brachial index (ABI), carotid and cardiac ultrasound (including measurement of the left ventricular mass index (LVMI)), and biochemical analyses were evaluated.

Results

Renal function decreased in both groups, with no significant difference in the change over time. In the CKD patients, none of the BP variables increased over time, but in the controls, average 24‐h and daytime systolic BP increased significantly. ABI increased slightly in the CKD patients (P<0·001), but not in the controls (P = 0·963), and phosphate had a significant positive effect on ABI. Although in the CKD patients, there was no significant increase over time in common carotid artery diameter (P = 0·274), there was a small but significant increase in the controls (P = 0·001). LVMI increased significantly over time in both groups.

Conclusions

In our study of patients with mild‐to‐moderate CKD, the progression of cardiovascular changes over time was relatively slow. Good BP control and treatment of other risk factors may have contributed to slow the progress of cardiovascular involvement, which emphasizes the importance of dedicated care in this population.
Histopathology‐guided mass spectrometry differentiates benign nevi from malignant melanoma
Authors: Lazova Rossitza , Smoot Katy , Anderson Heather , Powell Matthew J. , Rosenberg Arlene S. , Rongioletti Franco , Pilloni Luca , D'Hallewin Sara , Gueorguieva Ralitza , Tantcheva‐Poór Iliana , Obadofin Omobolade , Camacho Christine , Hsi Andy , Kluger Harriet H. , Fadare Oluwole , Seeley Erin H.
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Distinguishing benign nevi from malignant melanoma using current histopathological criteria may be very challenging and is one the most difficult areas in dermatopathology. The goal of this study was to identify proteomic differences, which would more reliably differentiate between benign and malignant melanocytic lesions.

Methods

We performed histolpathology ‐ guided mass spectrometry (HGMS) profiling analysis on formalin‐fixed, paraffin embedded tissue samples to identify differences at the proteomic level between different types of benign nevi and melanomas. A total of 756 cases, of which 357 cases of melanoma and 399 benign nevi, were included in the study. The specimens originated from both biopsies (376 samples) and tissue microarray (TMA) cores (380 samples). After obtaining mass spectra from each sample, classification models were built using a training set of biopsy specimens from 111 nevi and 100 melanomas. The classification algorithm developed on the training data set was validated on an independent set of 288 nevi and 257 melanomas from both biopsies and TMA cores.

Results

In the melanoma cohort, 239/257 (93%) cases classified correctly in the validation set, 3/257 (1.2%) classified incorrectly, and 15/257 (5.8%) classified as indeterminate. In the cohort of nevi, 282/288 (98%) cases classified correctly, 1/288 (0.3%) classified incorrectly, and 5/288 (1.7%) were indeterminate. HGMS showed a sensitivity of 98.76% and specificity of 99.65% in determining benign vs malignant.

Conclusion

HGMS proteomic analysis is an objective and reliable test with minimal tissue requirements, which can be a helpful ancillary test in the diagnosis of challenging melanocytic lesions.
Fine needle aspiration cytology of primary and metastatic gastrointestinal stromal tumour
Authors: Kapatia Gargi , Gupta Nalini , Saikia Uma Nahar , Gupta Parikshaa , Rohilla Manish , Gupta Ojas , Srinivasan Radhika , Rajwanshi Arvind , Dey Pranab
Published: November 2019

Aim

To explore the cytological spectrum of the gastrointestinal stromal tumour (GIST) including its metastatic sites.

Material and methods

A total of 42 patients (45 sites) diagnosed with GIST or its metastases on fine needle aspiration cytology were studied over a period of 5 years. May‐Grünwald Giemsa‐ and haematoxylin and eosin‐stained smears were reviewed and analysed for the cytomorphological spectrum of GIST.

Results

Primary GIST alone was seen in 24 cases, E‐GIST in eight cases and metastasis in 11 cases (one patient showing metastasis at two distinct sites), whereas concurrent primary and metastatic lesions were noted in two cases. Amongst primary sites, the most commonly affected location was stomach (n = 22), followed by ileum (n = 2), duodenum (n = 1) and rectum (n = 1). Extra‐GIST was seen in retroperitoneum and pelvis (n = 3 each), omentum and mediastinum (n = 1 each). Fine needle aspiration cytology was done from 11 metastatic sites of GIST which included liver, gall bladder fossa, chest wall, and thigh. The classic spindle cell arrangement was the predominant cytological pattern. About 8.8% cases showed predominant epithelioid cell morphology and 15.5% cases had a mixed cytomorphology comprising of both spindle cell and epithelioid cell patterns. Nuclear pseudoinclusions, perinuclear vacuoles and multinucleation were seen in four cases. Immunocytochemistry on cell‐block sections for confirmation was performed in 18 cases and all these cases showed strong c‐KIT positivity.

Conclusion

In this largest case series of cytomorphological diagnosis of GIST, we describe the cytomorphology and immunocytochemistry of primary and metastatic GIST. GISTs with predominant epithelioid cell morphology may pose a diagnostic dilemma therefore in all suspected cases of GIST, immunocytochemistry for c‐KIT and/or DOG1 should be employed on cell‐block preparations to confirm the diagnosis of GIST.
Psychiatric hospitalization following psychosis onset: A retrospective cohort study using health administrative data
Authors: Rodrigues Rebecca , Beswick Adam , Anderson Kelly K.
Published: November 2019

Aim

There is limited evidence examining admissions in early psychosis. We sought to estimate the proportion of people with a psychiatric admission within 2 years of the first diagnosis of psychosis, and to identify associated risk factors.

Method

We constructed a cohort of incident non‐affective psychosis cases using health administrative data and identified the first psychiatric hospitalization after psychosis onset. We compared hospitalization rates across sociodemographic, clinical and service‐use factors.

Results

One in three patients had an admission within 2 years of first diagnosis. Younger age, migrant status, diagnosis of psychosis not otherwise specified, and prior substance use were associated with increased hospitalization rates, whereas family physician involvement in diagnosis was protective.

Conclusions

Adolescents, immigrants and people presenting with diagnostic instability or prior substance use issues may benefit from interventions aimed at reducing hospitalization risk. Increasing primary care access and utilization among youth with early psychosis may also reduce hospitalization rates.
Learning across silos: Design Factories as hubs for co‐creation
Authors: Björklund Tua A. , Keipi Teo , Celik Sine , Ekman Kalevi
Published: November 2019

Collaboration through innovation is central to the discussion of how today's universities can respond to new interdisciplinary challenges, competitive environments and stakeholder complexity. Innovation hubs represent a dynamic example of how the public sector, including higher education, is responding to the need for new methods and perspectives that foster desired intra‐institutional change. This study examines one of these types of platforms, the Design Factory Global Network originating at Aalto University, in order to shed light on key enablers and barriers to furthering collaborative efforts within higher education. Based on 25 in‐depth interviews with 17 Design Factories, including perspectives from students, staff and educators, the findings show that institutional policy fostering flexibility, securing a physical cross‐disciplinary and multi‐purpose collaborative space, upper level support and building community are all vital in ensuring design‐driven experimentation that contributes to the effectiveness of higher education.
Is the walk ratio a window to the cerebellum in multiple sclerosis? A structural magnetic resonance imaging study
Authors: Kalron A. , Menascu S. , Givon U. , Dolev M. , Achiron A.
Published: November 2019

Background and purpose

Existing research studies have demonstrated a relationship between magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) neuroimaging measures and walking speed in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). However, to date there are no data as to the brain structures involved in gait coordination and control in PwMS. Therefore, the aim of our study was to investigate the association between walk ratio, an indicator of gait coordination, and related brain structures in PwMS.

Methods

A brain MRI was performed by a 3.0‐T MR scanner in conjunction with a volumetric analysis based on three‐dimensional T1‐weighted images. Regions of interest were volumes of the hippocampus, amygdala, putamen, caudate, pallidum, thalamus, cerebellum and the corpus callosum regions. Walking speed and walk ratio, defined as step length divided by step rate, was measured whilst walking on an electronic walkway.

Results

In all, 343 PwMS (41.1 ± 13.4 years, 69.1% female, median Expanded Disability Status Scale 2.5) were included in the study. A significant association was found between the left cerebellum volume and walk ratio after controlling for age, gender, total cranial volume and disability; R2 = 0.379, P = 0.002. A similar association was found between the right cerebellum volume and walk ratio, R2 = 0.364, P = 0.002. No correlations were observed between walk ratio and the thalamus, basal ganglia, hippocampus, amygdala and the corpus callosum volumes. No association was found between walking speed and all brain measures.

Conclusions

The walk ratio should be considered when evaluating and assessing PwMS presenting with ataxia. Furthermore, it is also hypothesized that a low walk ratio indicates a lower cerebellum volume in the MS population.
Machine learning and asset allocation
Authors: Routledge Bryan R.
Published: November 2019

Investors have access to a large array of structured and unstructured data. We consider how these data can be incorporated into financial decisions through the lens of the canonical asset allocation decision. We characterize investor preference for simplicity in models of the data used in the asset allocation decision. The simplicity parameters then guide asset allocation along with the usual risk aversion parameter. We use three distinct and diverse macroeconomic data sets to implement the model to forecast equity returns (the equity risk premium). The data sets we use are (a) price‐dividend ratios, (b) an array of macroeconomic series, and (c) text data from the Federal Reserve's Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meetings.
Impact of self‐reflection and awareness‐raising on novice French learners’ pronunciation
Authors: Meritan Camille , Mroz Aurore
Published: November 2019

Developing intelligible pronunciation is an important goal for language learners. Although it can be fostered through explicit instruction in communicative‐based courses, instructors need practical solutions to address their learners’ pronunciation individually. This one‐semester quasi‐experimental mixed methods study of 60 Generation Z novice French learners examined whether and how self‐reflection could be an effective learning strategy and an efficient complement in supporting the development of intelligible production of two phonological aspects (/y/‐/u/ and mandatory liaisons). Results of pre/post production tests for a treatment group (explicit instruction with self‐reflections) and a comparison group (explicit instruction only) were compared and responses to guided, open‐ended self‐reflections framed by the Awareness Continuum theory served to document students’ learning process. Self‐reflection resulted in significant production gains, particularly for learners who applied their attention and (multi‐)linguistic background to raise their phonological awareness.
Relationship between bovine carotid artery grafts for hemodialysis access and human leukocyte antigen sensitization
Authors: Dyer‐Kindy Lindsay M. , Heelan Gladden Alicia A. , Gralla Jane , McCormick Nicole D. , Jenks Colin , Cooper James , Kennealey Peter T.
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Bovine carotid artery (BCA) Artegraft is a biologic graft that can be utilized as a conduit for permanent hemodialysis access and has been shown to outperform polytetrafluoroethylene grafts. However, concern regarding immunologic sensitization may limit the use of BCA in the transplant candidate. Panel reactive antibody (PRA) is an immunological test utilized in transplant recipient selection whereas increases in PRA limit access to transplantation. The purpose of our study was to determine whether BCA graft placement was adversely associated with increases in PRA.

Methods

Of patients listed for kidney transplant at our institution, we identified 10 patients who underwent BCA placement for hemodialysis access and a matched cohort of 10 patients who underwent native arteriovenous fistula (AVF) creation between 2014 and 2017. The PRA value nearest to the surgery date was compared to postsurgery PRA value for the BCA and AVF patients using a paired t test. Presurgery PRAs were also compared to the maximum PRA at 0 to 6, 6 to 12, 12 to 18, and 18 to 24 months postsurgery.

Findings

Prior to the dialysis access operation, the mean PRA was 14.1% ± 23.5% vs. 17.1% ± 29.0% (P = 0.76) and the median postsurgery follow‐up time was 16 and 15 months for BCA and AVF cohorts, respectively. There were no statistically significant differences between presurgery and postsurgery PRA for BCA and AVF patients, regardless of time interval postsurgery. The difference in presurgery/postsurgery PRA change between cohorts was not statistically significant for PRAs closest to surgery (0.2% ± 40.6% vs. 1.0% ± 2.8%, P = 0.95, at a median 4 and 3 months postsurgery, respectively) or when using the maximum in any postsurgery interval. Prior to their dialysis access surgery, there were 16 sensitizing events in 5 patients in the BCA group compared to 10 events in 5 patients in the AVF group (P = 0.20). Only 1 of the 10 patients in the BCA group had a clinically relevant and sustained increase in PRA following their dialysis access operation vs. no patients in the AVF group (P > 0.99). However, this patient had a known sensitizing event (blood transfusion) between the BCA surgery and the postoperative PRA. Three of 10 patients in the BCA cohort vs. 5 of 10 patients in the AVF cohort went on to have successful kidney transplants (P = 0.65).

Discussion

The utilization of BCA for dialysis access was not associated with statistically significant changes in PRA. These data suggest that implantation of BCA will not affect access to organ transplantation.
Feeding strategy, dietary overlap and resource partitioning among four mesopredatory catfishes of a tropical estuary
Authors: Maitra Saswata , Harikrishnan Mahadevan , Nidhin Balachandran
Published: November 2019

The feeding strategy, overlap and trophic interactions of four demersal catfishes inhabiting Cochin Estuary, Arius maculatus (n = 67), A. subrostratus (n = 63), A. arius (n = 21) and Mystus gulio (n = 69) were investigated through gut‐content analyses. The indices of relative importance revealed that the prey items in their stomachs were dominated by crustaceans except in A. arius where molluscs constituted the major prey item. The highest diet and niche breadth values (3.93, 0.36 respectively) were recorded in A. subrostratus, while the lowest was recorded in A. arius (2.64, 0.23 respectively). Pianka's overlap, calculated through null models constructed by Ecosim 7.0, revealed significant niche overlap between A. maculatus and A. subrostratus (O–0.91, P < 0.001), between A. maculatus and M. gulio (O–0.72, P < 0.05) and between A. subrostratus and M.gulio (O–0.64 P < 0.05). However, no overlap was recorded between A. arius and other species. The trophic niche breadth along with prey specific abundance confirmed that these fishes are highly specific feeders. The present results on trophic level status indicate that these catfishes are mid‐level carnivores that can be considered as moderate benthic mesopredators and are specialist feeders unlike most catfishes.
Effect of Refractance Window on dehydration of osmotically pretreated apple slices: Color and texture evaluation
Authors: Hernández Yossebann , Ramírez Cristian , Moreno Jorge , Núñez Helena , Vega Oscar , Almonacid Sergio , Pinto Marlene , Fuentes Lida , Simpson Ricardo
Published: November 2019

The objective of this research was to explore the advantages of apple slices dehydration (cv. Granny Smith) using a Refractance Window (RW) with and without osmotic dehydration as pretreatment and compared with conventional hot‐air drying considering the quality attributes such as color and texture. For pretreatment, the apple slices were osmotically dehydrated and coupled to a moderate electric field (9.3 V/cm) using a sucrose solution (45°Brix) at 40°C until an Aw = 0.95 was achieved. Then, apple slices (with and without pretreatment) were dehydrated using RW at 55, 75, and 95°C and compared with conventional hot‐air drying at 55°C as a control. The results showed that with dehydration using RW, both with and without pretreatment at 95°C, it was possible to achieve a similar quality of apple slices when compared with conventional hot‐air drying at 55°C, but with a significant reduction in processing time. Additionally, the dehydration process using RW presented anomalous diffusion behavior on apple slices with an α > 1.

Practical applications

Refractance Window (RW) is a technology used for dehydration of fruit and vegetables slices and pulp based on the refractance properties of wet materials. RW has reported promising results in processing time reduction as compared with conventional dehydration methods. In addition, the quality of the end products by RW is higher as compared with conventional drying methods. In this research, we have showed that the final product (dehydrated apple slices) using RW attained quality values (color and texture) similar to those obtained with osmotic dehydration (OD) coupled with moderate electric field (MEF)/hot‐air drying. However, the time spent by RW (50 min) was much lower than OD coupled with MEF/hot‐air drying (240 min). Then, the main advantage of RW is the capacity to dehydrate fruit and vegetables materials using temperatures around 100°C, which allow both, reduce processing time and also attain high‐quality retention.
Living in the Community With Dementia: Who Receives Paid Care?
Authors: Reckrey Jennifer M. , Morrison R. Sean , Boerner Kathrin , Szanton Sarah L. , Bollens‐Lund Evan , Leff Bruce , Ornstein Katherine A.
Published: November 2019

OBJECTIVES

Paid caregivers (eg, home health aides and personal care attendants) provide hands‐on care that helps individuals with dementia live in the community. This study (a) characterizes paid caregiving among community‐dwelling individuals with dementia and (b) identifies factors associated with receipt of paid care.

DESIGN

Cross‐sectional analysis.

SETTING

The 2015 National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS), a nationally representative study of Medicare recipients aged 65 years and older.

PARTICIPANTS

Community‐dwelling individuals with dementia (n = 899).

MEASUREMENTS

Paid and family caregiving support was determined by participant or proxy report of help received with functional tasks. Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine factors associated with receipt of paid care. NHATS population sampling weights were used to produce national paid caregiving prevalence estimates.

RESULTS

Only 25.5% of community‐dwelling individuals with dementia received paid care, and 10.8% received 20 hours or more of paid care per week. For those who received it, paid care accounted for approximately half of the 83 total caregiving hours (paid and family) that they received each week. Among the subgroup of individuals with advanced dementia (those with impairment in dressing, bathing, toileting, and managing medications and finances), nearly half (48.3%) received paid care. Multivariable analysis, adjusting for sociodemographic, family caregiving support, functional, and clinical characteristics, found that the odds of receiving paid care were higher among men (odds ratio [OR] = 1.91; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.24‐2.95), the unmarried (OR = 2.20; 95% CI = 1.31‐3.70), those with Medicaid (OR = 2.16; 95% CI = 1.27‐3.66), and those requiring more help with activities of daily living (ADLs) (OR = 1.32; 95% CI = 1.18‐1.48) and instrumental ADLs (OR = 1.29; 95% CI = 1.14‐1.46).

CONCLUSIONS

New ways of making paid caregiving more accessible throughout the income spectrum are required to support family caregivers and respect the preferences of individuals with dementia to remain living in the community. J Am Geriatr Soc 68:186–191, 2019
A rapid measurement method for structured surface in white light interferometry
Authors: LEI ZILI , LIU XIAOJUN , ZHAO LI , YANG WENJUN , CHEN CHENG , GUO XIAOTING
Published: November 2019

White light interferometry (WLI) is an effective and widely‐used technique for structured surface measurement. However, it requires multiframe interferograms with vertical scanning to realise large‐scale measurement, which is time consuming and computationally intensive. This paper proposes a rapid surface measurement method to realise surface recovery with a single interferogram by white light interferometry. First, the feasibility to solve the wrapped phase of a single white‐light interferogram by Hilbert transform is certified. Then, unwrapped phases against zero optical path difference position (OPD) are achieved by a zero optical path difference detection algorithm applied to unwrapping process, which provides efficient surface recovery. To ensure the accuracy of phase solution in the proposed method, the necessary number and width of the interference fringes in the interferogram are analysed and determined based on Hilbert transform and sampling analysis. Finally, measurement results of a standard step sample and a standard reticle template are presented, which prove the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method.

Lay Description

As an effective and widely‐used technique for structured surface measurement, white light interferometry (WLI) has the major advantage to measure noncontinuous surfaces using the short coherence length of a wide bandwidth source. However, frequently vertical scanning is required to get series of white light interferograms at different axial positions for surface recovery by recovered algorithms. The vertical scanning process is complicated and time consuming. This paper proposes a fast and efficient method to realise rapid surface measurement using only a single‐frame interferogram based on WLI. First, the feasibility of using only one single white light interferogram to solve wrapped phases by Hilbert transform (HT) is discussed. Next, unwrapping process and zero optical path difference（OPD） detection algorithms are combined to unwrap phases against zero OPD position, which makes the structured surface recovery much easier. After that, the feasible number and width of interference fringes are determined based on sampling analysis and HT to guarantee the reliability and accuracy of phase solution in the proposed method. Finally, the accuracy and efficiency of this method is verified by measurement experiments of a standard step sample and a standard reticle template.
Factors Associated With Primary Family Caregivers’ Perceptions on Quality of Family‐Centered Care in Mental Health Practice
Authors: Hsiao Chiu‐Yueh , Lu Huei‐Lan , Tsai Yun‐Fang
Published: November 2019

Purpose

This study aimed to examine the quality of family‐centered care perceived by primary family caregivers and its influencing factors in mental healthcare practice.

Design

A cross‐sectional, correlational study.

Methods

A convenience sample of 121 mental health nurses and 164 primary family caregivers of patients with schizophrenia was recruited from acute psychiatric wards and chronic psychiatric rehabilitation wards in three psychiatric hospitals in Taiwan. Structured questionnaires for mental health nurses were designed to examine nurses’ attitudes toward schizophrenia and the importance of families in nursing care. Primary family caregivers were assessed to determine their perceptions of quality of family‐centered care. At least one primary family caregiver of patients was matched to a nurse who took major responsibility for the patient during the hospitalization. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics, Pearson’s product‐moment correlations, independent t‐test, one‐way analysis of variance, and stepwise regression analyses.

Results

Quality of family‐centered care perceived by primary family caregivers regarding the provision of general and specific information, as compared to enabling and partnership, coordinated and comprehensive care, and respectful and supportive care, was relatively inadequate. Younger and more educated primary family caregivers, having relatives with schizophrenia in acute wards, less supportive nurses’ attitudes toward schizophrenia, and the importance of family in nursing care were correlated with poor primary family caregivers’ perceptions of quality of family‐centered care. Nurses’ supportive attitudes toward schizophrenia and chronic psychiatric rehabilitation wards where patients received care were key factors in determining better quality of family‐centered care.

Conclusions

Findings provide a platform for the development of effective continuing education and training programs to equip mental health nurses with supportive attitudes toward mental illness and an integration of the family in nursing care, which will ultimately improve mental health care for families experiencing mental health problems.

Clinical Relevance

Efforts in professional training to address stigma and encourage a family‐centered approach into recovery‐oriented practice for practicing mental healthcare providers, including mental health nurses, are recommended.
Cause Lawyers, Political Violence, and Professionalism in Conflict
Authors: McEvoy Kieran
Published: November 2019

This article examines how cause lawyers in conflicted and authoritarian societies balance their professional responsibilities as lawyers with their commitment to a political cause. It is drawn from extensive interviews with both lawyers and political activists in a range of societies. It focuses on the challenges for lawyers in managing relations with violent politically‐motivated clients and their movements. Using the notion of ‘legitimation work', it seeks to examine the complex, fluid, and contingent understandings of legal professionalism that is developed in such contexts, offering three overlapping ‘ideal types’ of cause lawyers in order to better understand the meaning of legal professionalism in such sites: (a) struggle lawyers (b) human rights activists and (c) a ‘pragmatic moral community'. The article concludes by re‐examining how law is imagined in the legitimation work of cause lawyers in such settings and how that work is remembered in the transition from violence.
Reading Foucault: An Ongoing Engagement
Authors: Garland David
Published: November 2019

This article is a contribution to the occasional series dealing with a major book that has influenced the author. Previous contributors include Stewart Macaulay, John Griffith, William Twining, Carol Harlow, Geoffrey Bindman, Harry Arthurs, André‐Jean Arnaud, Alan Hunt, Michael Adler, Lawrence O. Gostin, John P. Heinz, Roger Brownsword, Roger Cotterrell, Nicola Lacey, and Carol J. Greenhouse.
Witnesses/Bystanders: The Tragic Fruits of Passivity, the Power of Bystanders, and Promoting Active Bystandership in Children, Adults, and Groups
Authors: Staub Ervin
Published: November 2019

I briefly describe my experiences that gave rise to a life‐long motivation to work on these issues. I then discuss the roots of extreme violence by groups, focusing on passivity by witnesses/bystanders that allows the evolution of increasing violence, including genocide. As an example, I discuss the genocide in Rwanda, and describe work I and my associates have done there to help with healing and reconciliation after the genocide of 1994, and to prevent future violence. I then discuss reasons for bystander passivity and the power of bystanders to make a difference. I describe ways of generating caring, helping/active bystandership, first through positive socialization of children, in the home and in classrooms, and then the development of caring and helping in people who have suffered, “altruism born of suffering.” I then describe interventions based on research that promote active bystandership: the training of police officers to prevent or stop unnecessary harmful behavior by fellow officers, with a successful example in New Orleans; the training of students to stop fellow students from harming others; an intervention in Amsterdam to improve relations between ethnic Dutch and Muslims after intense violence there. In the latter instance, the city government was the primary active bystander. I mention my colleagues’ and my theory and research on constructive (vs. blind) patriotism, and the special relevance of different forms of patriotism in the United States under the Trump Presidency.
Spatiotemporal mechanisms of coexistence in an European mammal community in a protected area of southern Italy
Authors: Mori E. , Bagnato S. , Serroni P. , Sangiuliano A. , Rotondaro F. , Marchianò V. , Cascini V. , Poerio L. , Ferretti F.
Published: November 2019

Assessing the spatiotemporal overlap amongst animal species living in sympatry helps to shed light on mechanisms of interspecific coexistence. We analysed the spatiotemporal coexistence in a predator–prey system through multiyear camera trapping, in a mountainous protected area of southern Italy (January 2012–January 2017). Temporal activity patterns and their interspecific overlap, as well as spatial overlap, were estimated for a top predator, that is the wolf Canis lupus, three species of wild ungulates, four mesocarnivores, one small herbivore, livestock and humans. A wide nocturnal temporal overlap was detected between the wolf and almost all the other species (71–91%). The highest temporal (91%) and spatial (63%) overlaps were reported between the wolf and the red fox Vulpes vulpes. For wolf‐ungulate pairs, the highest temporal overlap (88%) was reported for the wild boar Sus scrofa, its local main prey. Considering all the other species pairs, spatial overlap was low (i.e. lower than 45%), whereas temporal overlap was substantial (71–91%). Our findings support a significant role of interspecific spatial partitioning in shaping coexistence amongst considered species, which might be influenced by differences in spatial distribution of different food resources.
Methodology for spatio‐temporal predictions of traffic counts across an urban road network and generation of an on‐road greenhouse gas emission inventory
Authors: Ganji Arman , Shekarrizfard Maryam , Harpalani Aakash , Coleman Jesse , Hatzopoulou Marianne
Published: November 2019

On‐road emission inventories in urban areas have typically been developed using traffic data derived from travel demand models. These approaches tend to underestimate emissions because they often only incorporate data on household travel, not including commercial vehicle movements, taxis, ride hailing services, and other trips typically underreported within travel surveys. In contrast, traffic counts embed all types of on‐road vehicles; however, they are only conducted at selected locations in an urban area. Traffic counts are typically spatially correlated, which enables the development of methods that can interpolate traffic data at selected monitoring stations across an urban road network and in turn develop emission estimates. This paper presents a new and universal methodology designed to use traffic count data for the prediction of periodic and annual volumes as well as greenhouse gas emissions at the level of each individual roadway and for multiple years across a large road network. The methodology relies on the data collected and the spatio‐temporal relationships between traffic counts at various stations; it recognizes patterns in the data and identifies locations with similar trends. Traffic volumes and emissions prediction can be made even on roads where no count data exist. Data from the City of Toronto traffic count program were used to validate the output of various algorithms, indicating robust model performance, even in areas with limited data.
Gingival crevicular fluid levels of SLIT3 are increased in periodontal disease
Authors: Zhong Wei , Peng Youmei , Yue Erli , Huang Bin , Zhang Wei , Zhao Zhe , Jiang Jinhua , Wang Qingduan , Zhao Hongyu
Published: November 2019

This study aims to investigate the levels of SLIT3 in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) of healthy and periodontal disease subjects, and their correlations to periodontal disease. A total of 45 periodontal patients and 45 periodontally healthy volunteers were enrolled. The clinical parameters, radiographic bone loss and the levels of SLIT3, receptor activator of NF‐κB ligand (RANKL) and osteoprotegerin (OPG) in GCF were measured. The prevalences of Porphyromonas gingivalis, Treponema denticola, and Tannerella forsythia in subgingival plaque were also analyzed. The expression of SLIT3 and RANKL was detected in the periodontium of experimental periodontitis in rats and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced mouse macrophage. The total amounts and concentrations of SLIT3 and RANKL were significantly higher in periodontitis than those in healthy, while the level of OPG was significantly lower (p < .05). Significant positive correlations were observed between the level of GCF SLIT3 and clinical attachment level and radiographic bone loss (p < .05). There existed a significant positive correlation between SLIT3 and RANKL (p < .05). Increased expression of SLIT3 and RANKL was observed in the periodontium of periodontal rats. SLIT3 expression was induced by LPS stimulation in macrophages. These results suggest that SLIT3 may act as a diagnostic indicator of periodontal disease and should be further investigated.