bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of polymer modified cementitious coatings on chloride‐induced corrosion of steel in concrete
Authors: Brenna Andrea , Beretta Silvia , Berra Mario , Diamanti Maria Vittoria , Ormellese Marco , Pastore Tommaso , Pedeferri MariaPia , Bolzoni Fabio
Published: November 2019

The paper deals with the study of the effect of polymer modified cementitious mortars on chloride‐induced corrosion of steel reinforcement in concrete. Nowadays, many results obtained by standard and short‐term tests are available in the literature. The paper reports more than 15 years exposure testing on two commercial coatings, with different polymer/cement ratio. The effect of coatings on corrosion initiation and propagation has been studied by the monitoring of corrosion potential and corrosion rate of rebars in concrete subjected to chloride ponding; chloride profiles, coating adhesion, water content, and corrosion morphology have been also analyzed. It was demonstrated that polymer modified cementitious mortars can delay corrosion initiation caused by chloride penetration into concrete. Owing to high resistivity of coated concrete, corrosion rate is reduced. The protective effect is more pronounced as the polymer content increases from 0.35 to 0.55. The results have been elaborated to estimate the possible increase of service life gained with this additional protection method, compared with other solutions.
Investigation of mechanical and thermal properties of nano SiO2/hydrophobic silica aerogel co‐doped concrete with thermal insulation properties
Authors: Al Zaidi I. Kadum , Demirel Bilal , Atis Cengiz D. , Akkurt Fatih
Published: November 2019

Lightweight concretes with thermal insulation properties and good compressive strength can be produced by the replacement of normal aggregate of cement mixture with low‐density materials. In this study, sand in a cement mixture has been replaced totally with silica aerogel powder as well as replacement of cement with fly ash. Furthermore, nano silica and silica‐fume were added and incorporated into the concrete matrix. The most obvious finding to emerge from this study was that a lighter sample with no sand contributed to the lowest thermal insulation reduction by 58% of the reference sample and reduction in density to 22.8%, with reduced compressive strength of 27.11 MPa at 28 days. Obtaining of a lighter concrete by using aerogel, a chance of reduced building cooling and heating energy consumption and enhanced indoor comfort with the reduction of mold and condensation on buildings wall was obtained.
Expected‐value bias in routine third‐trimester growth scans
Authors: Drukker L. , Droste R. , Chatelain P. , Noble J. A. , Papageorghiou A. T.
Published: November 2019

Objectives

Operators performing fetal growth scans are usually aware of the gestational age of the pregnancy, which may lead to expected‐value bias when performing biometric measurements. We aimed to evaluate the incidence of expected‐value bias in routine fetal growth scans and assess its impact on standard biometric measurements.

Methods

We collected prospectively full‐length video recordings of routine ultrasound growth scans coupled with operator eye tracking. Expected value was defined as the gestational age at the time of the scan, based on the estimated due date that was established at the dating scan. Expected‐value bias was defined as occurring when the operator looked at the measurement box on the screen during the process of caliper adjustment before saving a measurement. We studied the three standard biometric planes on which measurements of head circumference (HC), abdominal circumference (AC) and femur length (FL) are obtained. We evaluated the incidence of expected‐value bias and quantified the impact of biased measurements.

Results

We analyzed 272 third‐trimester growth scans, performed by 16 operators, during which a total of 1409 measurements (354 HC, 703 AC and 352 FL; including repeat measurements) were obtained. Expected‐value bias occurred in 91.4% of the saved standard biometric plane measurements (85.0% for HC, 92.9% for AC and 94.9% for FL). The operators were more likely to adjust the measurements towards the expected value than away from it (47.7% vs 19.7% of measurements; P < 0.001). On average, measurements were corrected by 2.3 ± 5.6, 2.4 ± 10.4 and 3.2 ± 10.4 days of gestation towards the expected gestational age for the HC, AC, and FL measurements, respectively. Additionally, we noted a statistically significant reduction in measurement variance once the operator was biased (P = 0.026). Comparing the lowest and highest possible estimated fetal weight (using the smallest and largest biased HC, AC and FL measurements), we noted that the discordance, in percentage terms, was 10.1% ± 6.5%, and that in 17% (95% CI, 12–21%) of the scans, the fetus could be considered as small‐for‐gestational age or appropriate‐for‐gestational age if using the smallest or largest possible measurements, respectively. Similarly, in 13% (95% CI, 9–16%) of scans, the fetus could be considered as large‐for‐gestational age or appropriate‐for‐gestational age if using the largest or smallest possible measurements, respectively.

Conclusions

During routine third‐trimester growth scans, expected‐value bias frequently occurs and significantly changes standard biometric measurements obtained. © 2019 the Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Urethroplasty with balloon catheterization in fetal lower urinary tract obstruction: observational study of 10 fetuses
Authors: Dębska M. , Koleśnik A. , Kretowicz P. , Olędzka A. , Rebizant B. , Gastoł P. , Dębski R.
Published: November 2019

Objective

To present the preliminary outcomes of fetal urethroplasty using a coronary angioplasty balloon catheter in lower urinary tract obstruction (LUTO).

Methods

We included 10 consecutive male fetuses diagnosed with LUTO caused by presumed isolated posterior urethral valves (PUVs), who underwent urethroplasty with a balloon catheter in our center between 2015 and 2018. During urethroplasty, the fetal urethra was dilated using a balloon catheter (diameter, 0.014 inches; balloon size, 2 × 9 mm) inserted under ultrasonographic guidance via an 18‐gauge needle introduced into the fetal bladder.

Results

Mean gestational age at the time of urethroplasty was 17.8 (range, 16.5–20.4) weeks. All fetuses survived the procedure without any complications and there was no case of preterm prelabor rupture of the membranes. The procedure was successful in 5/10 (50%) fetuses, while in the other five (50%), we were unable to insert the balloon catheter into the urethra. In the five successfully treated cases, mean gestational age at delivery was 38 (range, 36–40) weeks and presence of PUVs was confirmed after birth. All five neonates micturated spontaneously and presented with normal urine output after birth. During the follow‐up period, the parameters of kidney function were within normal limits in two neonates, whereas signs of impaired renal function were seen in another two. The other was diagnosed with renal insufficiency and required kidney transplant with bladder sparing at 2 years of age.

Conclusions

Urethroplasty with a balloon catheter is a new prenatal treatment option for fetuses with PUVs. By restoring fetal micturition, the procedure can preserve normal urinary bladder and kidney function. Although data on its efficacy and potential to differentiate the etiology of LUTO are sparse, a significant advantage of this method is its safety for the fetus and the mother. Even if the neonates develop renal insufficiency, they may be eligible for kidney transplant with connection to their own bladder, without the need for urostomy. Copyright © 2019 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Impurity and Danger: Excerpt from Cape Calypso
Authors: Hemer Oscar
Published: November 2019

This chapter assumes that the globally resurging nationalism, identity politics and xenophobia may be explicated by the conceptual dichotomy Purity-Impurity. South Africa is an especially apt case for such analysis. Twenty-five years after the transition, its inhabitants are still divided according to the apartheid categories and very modest progress has been made in breaking former barriers and changing attitudes. Yet, whereas apartheid was one of the foremost applications of a “politics of purity”, the Western Cape has also historically been one of the epicentres of creolisation. By means of an experimental cross-genre (literary and academic) approach, the apartheid vision of “separate development” is here interrogated as suppressed creolisation. The chapter is an abbreviated excerpt from a forthcoming diptych on creolisation vs. racialisation in South Africa.
Arbeitslosigkeit, soziale Netzwerke und gesundheitliche Ungleichheiten
Authors: Krug Gerhard , Brandt Stefan , Gamper Markus , Knabe André , Klärner Andreas
Published: November 2019

Arbeitslosigkeit führt zu Beeinträchtigungen der physischen und psychischen Gesundheit.
Soziale Netzwerke und gesundheitliche Ungleichheiten im jungen und mittleren Erwachsenenalter
Authors: von der Lippe Holger , Reis Olaf
Published: November 2019

In der Literatur werden relevante Zusammenhänge zwischen unterschiedlichen Phänomenen im Lebenslauf junger und mittlerer Erwachsener vermutet: zwischen sozialen und gesundheitlichen Ungleichheiten, biografischen Übergängen (Transitionen), sozialen Beziehungsnetzen und individuellem Gesundheitsverhalten. Viele der hier denkbaren Zusammenhänge sind jedoch noch nicht hinreichend erforscht. Aus einer soziologischen und psychologischen Perspektive berichten wir über verschiedene Lebenslauftheorien der Entwicklung Erwachsener in ihren sozialen Beziehungsgefügen und diskutieren die Passung dieser Theorien für Gesundheit und Gesundheitsverhalten. Wir stellen einigen exemplarische Studien zur gesundheitlichen Bedeutung sozialer Netzwerke in biografischen Anpassungssituation (wie z. B. Paarbildung, Scheidung, Auszug der erwachsenen Kinder) junger und mittlerer Erwachsener vor und schließen, dass nach aktueller Forschungslage Mediatoreffekte sozialer Netzwerke für den Einfluss sozialer Ungleichheiten auf Gesundheit am wahrscheinlichsten sind. Die Forschungslage ist jedoch nicht gefestigt, sodass weitere empirische wie theoretische Anstrengungen als notwendig erachtet werden. Wir schlagen sieben methodologische Konsequenzen für zukünftige Forschungsbemühungen vor.
A European perspective of the cost effectiveness of facial composite tissue allotransplantation
Authors: Borg Tiffanie-Marie , Yalamanchili Seema , Ghali Shadi , Myers Simon , Holmes Simon , Ghanem Ali
Published: November 2019

Background

Facial composite tissue allotransplantation (CTA) may be considered in cases of severe facial injury. To date, no reports have analysed the cost of potential facial CTA in the UK. The aims of this study were to establish (1) the cost implications without facial CTA, necessitating multiple reconstructive procedures in cases with severe facial deformities, and (2) if facial CTA would be cost-effective in the UK given recent European and North American published cost analyses.

Methods

Hospital episodes’ data from two potential candidates for facial CTA were used to calculate cost of treatment. In these cases, severe facial trauma was managed by multiple disciplinary teams performing numerous conventional reconstructive procedures. One case served as an indicator of the cost of primary reconstruction during the immediate post-traumatic episode, from admission until first discharge. The other served as an indicator of the accumulative cost of care following primary reconstruction from first discharge to six years later. Costs incurred served as a guide for the cost of standard reconstruction in the UK. These were compared with the costs of similar reconstructive procedures performed in the USA. This was used with data reporting the cost of facial CTA in the USA and France to predict the cost of facial CTA in the UK.

Results

Analysis revealed a cost benefit for facial CTA in a UK context that would become apparent from the third year post-transplant onwards.

Conclusion

Facial CTA may therefore be a more cost-effective long-term reconstructive option for patients with severe facial defects.

Level of evidence: Level V, risk/prognostic study.
Effects of urease and nitrification inhibitors on soil N, nitrifier abundance and activity in a sandy loam soil
Authors: Fu Qingling , Abadie Maïder , Blaud Aimeric , Carswell Alison , Misselbrook Tom H. , Clark Ian M. , Hirsch Penny R.
Published: November 2019

Inhibitors of urease and ammonia monooxygenase can limit the rate of conversion of urea to ammonia and ammonia to nitrate, respectively, potentially improving N fertilizer use efficiency and reducing gaseous losses. Winter wheat grown on a sandy soil in the UK was treated with urea fertilizer with the urease inhibitor N-(n-butyl) thiophosphoric triamide (NBPT), the nitrification inhibitor dicyandiamide (DCD) or a combination of both. The effects on soil microbial community diversity, the abundance of genes involved in nitrification and crop yields and net N recovery were compared. The only significant effect on N-cycle genes was a transient reduction in bacterial ammonia monooxygenase abundance following DCD application. However, overall crop yields and net N recovery were significantly lower in the urea treatments compared with an equivalent application of ammonium nitrate fertilizer, and significantly less for urea with DCD than the other urea treatments.
Prognostic values of pretreatment neutrophil-to-lymphocyte and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratios in endometrial cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ni Liwei , Tao Jialong , Xu Jianhao , Yuan Xuya , Long Yuming , Yu Na , Wu Runhong , Zhang Yusong
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Elevated inflammatory markers, including neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), have been identified as poor predictors of survival in several malignancies. This meta-analysis was performed to quantify the effect of pretreatment NLR and PLR on the survival of patients with endometrial cancer (EC).

Methods

This review systematically searched for relevant publications in databases of PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library. Pooled hazard ratios (pHRs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were determined and used to explore the association between inflammatory markers and overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) in a random-effects model. Subgroup analysis, sensitivity analysis, and publication bias were also conducted in this meta-analysis.

Results

Nine articles comprising 3390 patients were included. NLR higher than the cutoff was associated with a shorter OS (pHR = 2.22, 95% CI 1.77–2.78) and poorer PFS (pHR = 1.81, 95% CI 1.35–2.41). Patients with elevated PLR had high risk of decreased OS (pHR = 1.99, 95% CI = 1.51–2.61) and unfavorable PFS (pHR = 2.02, 95% CI 1.45–2.80).

Conclusions

Elevated NLR and PLR during pretreatment are biomarkers of poor prognosis in patients with EC.
Optimal time allocation in active retirement
Authors: Sánchez-Romero Miguel , Prskawetz Alexia
Published: November 2019

We set up a lifecycle model of a retired scholar who chooses optimally the time devoted to different activities including physical activity, continued work and social engagement. While time spent in physical activity increases life expectancy, continued scientific publications increases the knowledge stock. We show the optimal trade off between these activities in retirement and its sensitivity with respect to alternative settings of the preference parameters.
Immediate, multiplexed and sequential genome engineering facilitated by CRISPR/Cas9 in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Li Zhen-Hai , Meng Hao , Ma Bin , Tao Xinyi , Liu Min , Wang Feng-Qing , Wei Dong-Zhi
Published: November 2019

A method called Cas-3P allowing for immediate, multiplexed and sequential genome engineering was developed using one plasmid expressing Cas9 and three marked plasmid backbones (P1, P2 and P3) for guide RNA (gRNA) expression. The three marked gRNA plasmid backbones were recurred in a P1–P2–P3 order for sequential gene targeting, without construction of any additional plasmid and elimination of gRNA plasmid by induction in each round. The efficiency of direct gRNA plasmid curing mediated by Cas-3P was more than 40% in sequential gene targeting. Besides, Cas-3P allowed single-, double- and triple-loci gene targeting with an efficiency of 75%, 36.8% and 8.2% within 3–4 days, respectively. Through three sequential rounds of gene targeting within 10 days, S. cerevisiae was optimized for the production of patchoulol by replacing one promoter, overexpressing three genes and disrupting four genes. The work is important for practical application in the cell factory engineering of S. cerevisiae.
Consensus-based technical recommendations for clinical translation of renal BOLD MRI
Authors: Bane Octavia , Mendichovszky Iosif A. , Milani Bastien , Dekkers Ilona A. , Deux Jean-Francois , Eckerbom Per , Grenier Nicolas , Hall Michael E. , Inoue Tsutomu , Laustsen Christoffer , Lerman Lilach O. , Liu Chunlei , Morrell Glen , Pedersen Michael , Pruijm Menno , Sadowski Elizabeth A. , Seeliger Erdmann , Sharma Kanishka , Thoeny Harriet , Vermathen Peter , Wang Zhen J. , Serafin Zbigniew , Zhang Jeff L. , Francis Susan T. , Sourbron Steven , Pohlmann Andreas , Fain Sean B. , Prasad Pottumarthi V.
Published: November 2019

Harmonization of acquisition and analysis protocols is an important step in the validation of BOLD MRI as a renal biomarker. This harmonization initiative provides technical recommendations based on a consensus report with the aim to move towards standardized protocols that facilitate clinical translation and comparison of data across sites. We used a recently published systematic review paper, which included a detailed summary of renal BOLD MRI technical parameters and areas of investigation in its supplementary material, as the starting point in developing the survey questionnaires for seeking consensus. Survey data were collected via the Delphi consensus process from 24 researchers on renal BOLD MRI exam preparation, data acquisition, data analysis, and interpretation. Consensus was defined as ≥ 75% unanimity in response. Among 31 survey questions, 14 achieved consensus resolution, 12 showed clear respondent preference (65–74% agreement), and 5 showed equal (50/50%) split in opinion among respondents. Recommendations for subject preparation, data acquisition, processing and reporting are given based on the survey results and review of the literature. These technical recommendations are aimed towards increased inter-site harmonization, a first step towards standardization of renal BOLD MRI protocols across sites. We expect this to be an iterative process updated dynamically based on progress in the field.
Disagreement about logic from a pluralist perspective
Authors: Stei Erik
Published: November 2019

Logical pluralism is commonly described as the view that there is more than one correct logic. It has been claimed that, in order for that view to be interesting, there has to be at least a potential for rivalry between the correct logics. This paper offers a detailed assessment of this suggestion. I argue that an interesting version of logical pluralism is hard, if not impossible, to achieve. I first outline an intuitive understanding of the notions of rivalry and correctness. I then discuss a natural account of rivalry in terms of disagreement about validity claims and the argument from meaning variance that has been raised against it. I explore a more refined picture of the meaning of validity claims that makes use of the character-content distinction of classical two dimensional semantics. There are three ways in which pluralists can use that framework to argue for the view that different logics may be rivals but could nevertheless be equally correct. I argue that none of them is convincing.
Topical rapamycin reduces markers of senescence and aging in human skin: an exploratory, prospective, randomized trial
Authors: Chung Christina Lee , Lawrence Ibiyonu , Hoffman Melissa , Elgindi Dareen , Nadhan Kumar , Potnis Manali , Jin Annie , Sershon Catlin , Binnebose Rhonda , Lorenzini Antonello , Sell Christian
Published: November 2019

Aging is a major risk factor for the majority of human diseases, and the development of interventions to reduce the intrinsic rate of aging is expected to reduce the risk for age-related diseases including cardiovascular disease, cancer, and dementia. In the skin, aging manifests itself in photodamage and dermal atrophy, with underlying tissue reduction and impaired barrier function. To determine whether rapamycin, an FDA-approved drug targeting the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) complex, can reduce senescence and markers of aging in human skin, an exploratory, placebo-controlled, interventional trial was conducted in a clinical dermatology setting. Participants were greater than 40 years of age with evidence of age-related photoaging and dermal volume loss and no major morbidities. Thirty-six participants were enrolled in the study, and nineteen discontinued or were lost to follow-up. A significant (P = 0.008) reduction in p16INK4A protein levels and an increase in collagen VII protein levels (P = 0.0077) were observed among participants at the end of the study. Clinical improvement in skin appearance was noted in multiple participants, and immunohistochemical analysis revealed improvement in histological appearance of skin tissue. Topical rapamycin reduced the expression of the p16INK4A protein consistent with a reduction in cellular senescence. This change was accompanied by relative improvement in clinical appearance of the skin and histological markers of aging and by an increase in collagen VII, which is critical to the integrity of the basement membrane. These results indicate that rapamycin treatment is a potential anti-aging therapy with efficacy in humans.

Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03103893.
Induction of integration-free human-induced pluripotent stem cells under serum- and feeder-free conditions
Authors: Hamada Atsuko , Akagi Eri , Yamasaki Sachiko , Nakatao Hirotaka , Obayashi Fumitaka , Ohtaka Manami , Nishimura Ken , Nakanishi Mahito , Toratani Shigeaki , Okamoto Tetsuji
Published: November 2019

Human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) have shown great potential toward practical and scientific applications. We previously reported the generation of human dental pulp stem cells using non-integrating replication-defective Sendai virus (SeVdp) vector in feeder-free culture with serum-free medium hESF9. This study describes the generation of hiPSCs from peripheral blood mononuclear cells to increase the donor population, while reducing biopsy invasiveness. From 6-d-old primary culture of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) with IL-2, hiPSCs were established using SeVdp(KOSM)302L with recombinant Laminin-511 E8 fragments under serum-free condition. The established PBMC-derived hiPSCs showed pluripotency and differentiation ability both in vivo and in vitro. In addition, we evaluated microarray data from PBMC- and dental pulp–derived hiPSCs. These hiPSCs will be beneficial for characterizing the molecular mechanisms of cellular differentiation and may provide useful substrates for developing cellular therapeutics.
Mapping Seafloor Relative Reflectance and Assessing Coral Reef Morphology with EAARL-B Topobathymetric Lidar Waveforms
Authors: Wilson Nicholas , Parrish Christopher E. , Battista Tim , Wright C. Wayne , Costa Bryan , Slocum Richard K. , Dijkstra Jennifer A. , Tyler Matthew T.
Published: November 2019

Topobathymetric lidar is becoming an increasingly valuable tool for benthic habitat mapping, enabling safe, efficient data acquisition over coral reefs and other fragile ecosystems. In 2014, a novel topobathymetric lidar system, the Experimental Advanced Airborne Research Lidar-B (EAARL-B), was used to acquire data in priority habitat areas in the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI), spanning the 0–44-m depth range. In this study, new algorithms and procedures were developed for generating seafloor relative reflectance, along with a suite of shape-based waveform features from EAARL-B. Waveform features were then correlated with percent cover of coral morphologies, domed and branched, and total cover of hard and soft corals. Results show that the EAARL-B can be used to produce useful seafloor relative reflectance mosaics and also that the additional waveform shape-based features contain additional information that may benefit habitat classification—specifically, to aid in distinguishing among hard corals and their coral morphologies, domed and branched. Knowing the spatial extent of changes in coral communities is important to the understanding of resiliency of coral reefs under stress from human impacts.
Bioextractive Removal of Nitrogen by Oysters in Great Bay Piscataqua River Estuary, New Hampshire, USA
Authors: Bricker Suzanne B. , Grizzle Raymond E. , Trowbridge Philip , Rose Julie M. , Ferreira Joao G. , Wellman Katharine , Zhu Changbo , Galimany Eve , Wikfors Gary H. , Saurel Camille , Landeck Miller Robin , Wands James , Rheault Robert , Steinberg Jacob , Jacob Annie P. , Davenport Erik D. , Ayvazian Suzanne , Chintala Marnita , Tedesco Mark A.
Published: November 2019

Eutrophication is a challenge to coastal waters around the globe. In many places, nutrient reductions from land-based sources have not been sufficient to achieve desired water quality improvements. Bivalve shellfish have shown promise as an in-water strategy to complement land-based nutrient management. A local-scale production model was used to estimate oyster (Crassostrea virginica) harvest and bioextraction of nitrogen (N) in Great Bay Piscataqua River Estuary (GBP), New Hampshire, USA, because a system-scale ecological model was not available. Farm-scale N removal results (0.072 metric tons acre−1year−1) were up-scaled to provide a system-wide removal estimate for current (0.61 metric tons year−1), and potential removal (2.35 metric tons year−1) at maximum possible expansion of licensed aquaculture areas. Restored reef N removal was included to provide a more complete picture. Nitrogen removal through reef sequestration was ~ 3 times that of aquaculture. Estimated reef-associated denitrification, based on previously reported rates, removed 0.19 metric tons N year−1. When all oyster processes (aquaculture and reefs) were included, N removal was 0.33% and 0.54% of incoming N for current and expanded acres, respectively. An avoided cost approach, with wastewater treatment as the alternative management measure, was used to estimate the value of the N removed. The maximum economic value for aquaculture-based removal was $105,000 and $405,000 for current and expanded oyster areas, respectively. Combined aquaculture and reef restoration is suggested to maximize N reduction capacity while limiting use conflicts. Comparison of removal based on per oyster N content suggests much lower removal rates than model results, but model harvest estimates are similar to reported harvest. Though results are specific to GBP, the approach is transferable to estuaries that support bivalve aquaculture but do not have complex system-scale hydrodynamic or ecological models.
Case Report of Abdominal Lymphangioma
Authors: Desai Purvi D. , Surani Priyanka A. , Verma Ragini N. , Chauhan Binodini M.
Published: November 2019

We present a case of massive abdominal lymphangioma in a fetus diagnosed at 28 weeks of gestation. The lesion was located in the abdomen involving lower part of thorax and entire abdominal wall, extending down to the right gluteal region. Detailed structural anomaly scan was performed, growth of the fetus assessed and patient was managed expectantly till delivery.
Indo-Pacific Climate Modes in Warming Climate: Consensus and Uncertainty Across Model Projections
Authors: Zheng Xiao-Tong
Published: November 2019

Purpose of Review

Understanding the changes in climate variability in a warming climate is crucial for reliable projections of future climate change. This article reviews the recent progress in studies of how climate modes in the Indo-Pacific respond to greenhouse warming, including the consensus and uncertainty across climate models.

Recent Findings

Recent studies revealed a range of robust changes in the properties of climate modes, often associated with the mean state changes in the tropical Indo-Pacific. In particular, the intermodel diversity in the ocean warming pattern is a prominent source of uncertainty in mode changes. The internal variability also plays an important role in projected changes in climate modes.

Model biases and intermodel variability remain major challenges for reducing uncertainty in projecting climate mode changes in warming climate. Improved models and research linking simulated present-day climate and future changes are essential for reliable projections of climate mode changes. In addition, large ensembles should be used for each model to reduce the uncertainty from internal variability and isolate the forced response to global warming.
Interfacility patient sharing and Clostridioides difficile infection incidence in the Ontario hospital system: A 13-year cohort study
Authors: Brown Kevin A. , McGeer Allison , Schwartz Kevin L. , Diong Christina , Etches Jacob , Garber Gary , Johnstone Jennie , Langford Bradley , Daneman Nick
Published: November 2019

Objective:

Interfacility patient movement plays an important role in the dissemination of antimicrobial-resistant organisms throughout healthcare systems. We evaluated how 3 alternative measures of interfacility patient sharing were associated with C. difficile infection incidence in Ontario acute-care facilities.

Design:

The cohort included adult acute-care facility stays of ≥3 days between April 2003 and March 2016. We measured 3 facility-level metrics of patient sharing: general patient importation, incidence-weighted patient importation, and C. difficile case importation. Each of the 3 patient-sharing metrics were examined against the incidence of C. difficile infection in the facility per 1,000 stays, using Poisson regression models.

Results:

The analyzed cohort included 6.70 million stays at risk of C. difficile infection across 120 facilities. Over the 13-year period, we included 62,189 new cases of healthcare-associated CDI (incidence, 9.3 per 1,000 stays). After adjustment for facility characteristics, general importation was not strongly associated with C. difficile infection incidence (risk ratio [RR] per doubling, 1.10; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.97–1.24; proportional change in variance [PCV], −2.0%). Incidence-weighted (RR per doubling, 1.18; 95% CI, 1.06–1.30; PCV, −8.4%) and C. difficile case importation (RR per doubling, 1.43; 95% CI, 1.29–1.58; PCV, −30.1%) were strongly associated with C. difficile infection incidence.

Conclusions:

In this 13-year study of acute-care facilities in Ontario, interfacility variation in C. difficile infection incidence was associated with importation of patients from other high-incidence acute-care facilities or specifically of patients with a recent history of C. difficile infection. Regional infection control strategies should consider the potential impact of importation of patients at high risk of C. difficile shedding from outside facilities.
Antimicrobial-resistant pathogens associated with pediatric healthcare-associated infections: Summary of data reported to the National Healthcare Safety Network, 2015–2017
Authors: Weiner-Lastinger Lindsey M. , Abner Sheila , Benin Andrea L. , Edwards Jonathan R. , Kallen Alexander J. , Karlsson Maria , Magill Shelley S. , Pollock Daniel , See Isaac , Soe Minn M. , Walters Maroya S. , Dudeck Margaret A.
Published: November 2019

Objective:

To describe common pathogens and antimicrobial resistance patterns for healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) among pediatric patients that occurred in 2015–2017 and were reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN).

Methods:

Antimicrobial resistance data were analyzed for pathogens implicated in central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs), catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs), ventilator-associated pneumonias (VAPs), and surgical site infections (SSIs). This analysis was restricted to device-associated HAIs reported from pediatric patient care locations and SSIs among patients <18 years old. Percentages of pathogens with nonsusceptibility (%NS) to selected antimicrobials were calculated by HAI type, location type, and surgical category.

Results:

Overall, 2,545 facilities performed surveillance of pediatric HAIs in the NHSN during this period. Staphylococcus aureus (15%), Escherichia coli (12%), and coagulase-negative staphylococci (12%) were the 3 most commonly reported pathogens associated with pediatric HAIs. Pathogens and the %NS varied by HAI type, location type, and/or surgical category. Among CLABSIs, the %NS was generally lowest in neonatal intensive care units and highest in pediatric oncology units. Staphylococcus spp were particularly common among orthopedic, neurosurgical, and cardiac SSIs; however, E. coli was more common in abdominal SSIs. Overall, antimicrobial nonsusceptibility was less prevalent in pediatric HAIs than in adult HAIs.

Conclusion:

This report provides an updated national summary of pathogen distributions and antimicrobial resistance patterns among pediatric HAIs. These data highlight the need for continued antimicrobial resistance tracking among pediatric patients and should encourage the pediatric healthcare community to use such data when establishing policies for infection prevention and antimicrobial stewardship.
Tea consumption and risk of diabetes in the Chinese population: a multi-centre, cross-sectional study
Authors: Chen Yaling , Li Wei , Qiu Shanhu , Vladmir Carvalho , Xu Xiaohan , Wang Xinling , Nian Xin , Chen Qingyun , Wang Qing , Tu Ping , Zhang Lihui , Yan Sunjie , Li Kaili , Chen Juan , Wu Hang , Wang Xuyi , Wang Xiaohang , Liu Jingbao , Cai Min , Wang Zhiyao , Wang Bei , Sun Zilin
Published: November 2019

The aim of the present study was to explore the influence of tea consumption on diabetes mellitus in the Chinese population. This multi-centre, cross-sectional study was conducted in eight sites from south, east, north, west and middle regions in China by enrolling 12 017 subjects aged 20–70 years. Socio-demographic and general information was collected by a standardised questionnaire. A standard procedure was used to measure anthropometric characteristics and to obtain blood samples. The diagnosis of diabetes was determined using a standard 75-g oral glucose tolerance test. In the final analysis, 10 825 participants were included and multiple logistic models and interaction effect analysis were applied for assessing the association between tea drinking with diabetes. Compared with non-tea drinkers, the multivariable-adjusted OR for newly diagnosed diabetes were 0·80 (95 % CI 0·67, 0·97), 0·88 (95 % CI 0·71, 1·09) and 0·86 (95 % CI 0·67, 1·11) for daily tea drinkers, occasional tea drinkers and seldom tea drinkers, respectively. Furthermore, drinking tea daily was related to decreased risk of diabetes in females by 32 %, elderly (>45 years) by 24 % and obese (BMI > 30 kg/m2) by 34 %. Moreover, drinking dark tea was associated with reduced risk of diabetes by 45 % (OR 0·55; 95 % CI 0·42, 0·72; P < 0·01). The results imply that drinking tea daily was negatively related to risk of diabetes in female, elderly and obese people. In addition, drinking dark tea was associated with decreased risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Why magnesium isotope fractionation is absent from basaltic melts under thermal gradients in natural settings
Authors: Xu Yingkui , Zhu Dan , Li Xiongyao , Liu Jianzhong
Published: November 2019

Laboratory experiments have shown that thermal gradients in silicate melts can lead to isotopic fractionation; this is known as the Richter effect. However, it is perplexing that the Richter effect has not been documented in natural samples as thermal gradients commonly exist within natural igneous systems. To resolve this discrepancy, theoretical analysis and calculations were undertaken. We found that the Richter effect, commonly seen in experiments with wholly molten silicates, cannot be applied to natural systems because natural igneous samples are more likely to be formed out of partially molten magma and the presence of minerals adds complexity to the behaviour of the isotope. In this study, we consider two related diffusion-rate kinetic isotope effects that originate from chemical diffusion, which are absent from experiments with wholly molten samples. We performed detailed calculations for magnesium isotopes, and the results indicated that the Richter effect for magnesium isotopes is buffered by kinetic isotope effects and the total value of magnesium isotope fractionation can be zero or even undetectable. Our study provides a new understanding of isotopic behaviour during the processes of cooling and solidification in natural magmatic systems.
From Tradition to Community: The Rise of Contemporary Knowledge in Late Imperial China
Authors: Vedal Nathan
Published: November 2019

This article examines the emergence of a new emphasis on contemporary specialized knowledge in sixteenth-century China. During this period, sources of authority such as antiquity and the court came to lose their elevated status. As a result, scholars increasingly saw the expertise of a contemporary disciplinary community as a superior standard for validating knowledge. This trend appeared in scholarly collaboration and the citation of contemporaries, as well as new kinds of paratextual materials such as lists of works cited and literature reviews. These findings on new intellectual communities in the sixteenth century call for a reassessment of the better-documented shifts in East Asian intellectual culture from the mid-eighteenth century to the present.
LIKELIHOOD INFERENCE ON SEMIPARAMETRIC MODELS WITH GENERATED REGRESSORS
Authors: Matsushita Yukitoshi , Otsu Taisuke
Published: November 2019

Hahn and Ridder (2013, Econometrica 81, 315–340) formulated influence functions of semiparametric three-step estimators where generated regressors are computed in the first step. This class of estimators covers several important examples for empirical analysis, such as production function estimators by Olley and Pakes (1996, Econometrica 64, 1263–1297) and propensity score matching estimators for treatment effects by Heckman, Ichimura, and Todd (1998, Review of Economic Studies 65, 261–294). The present article studies a nonparametric likelihood-based inference method for the parameters in such three-step estimation problems. In particular, we apply the general empirical likelihood theory of Bravo, Escanciano, and van Keilegom (2018, Annals of Statistics, forthcoming) to modify semiparametric moment functions to account for influences from plug-in estimates into the above important setup, and show that the resulting likelihood ratio statistic becomes asymptotically pivotal without undersmoothing in the first and second step nonparametric estimates.
Principles and practices of risk assessment in mental health jail diversion programs
Authors: Desmarais Sarah L. , Lowder Evan M.
Published: November 2019

Eligibility criteria for participation in mental health jail diversion programs often specify that, to be diverted, a candidate must not pose a level of threat to public safety that cannot be managed in the community. Risk assessment tools were developed to increase consistency and accuracy in estimates of threat to public safety. Consequently, risk assessment tools are being used in many jurisdictions to inform decisions regarding an individual’s appropriateness and eligibility for mental health jail diversion and the strategies that may be successful in mitigating risk in this context. However, their use is not without controversy. Questions have been raised regarding the validity and equity of their estimates, as well as the impact of their use on criminal justice outcomes. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the science and practice of risk assessment to inform decisions and case planning in the context of mental health jail diversion programs. Our specific aims include: (1) to describe the process and components of risk assessment, including differentiating between different approaches to risk assessment, and (2) to consider the use of risk assessment tools in mental health jail diversion programs. We anchor this review in relevant theory and extant research, noting current controversies or debates and areas for future research. Overall, there is strong theoretical justification and empirical evidence from other criminal justice contexts; however, the body of research on the use of risk assessment tools in mental health jail diversion programs, although promising, is relatively nascent.
Colorimetric assay for detecting mechanical damage to weed seeds
Authors: Schutte Brian J. , Rashid Abdur , Wood Joseph B. , Marquez Israel
Published: November 2019

Weed seeds with mechanical damage are more susceptible to mortality in soil than nondamaged seeds. In this study we introduce a colorimetric assay to distinguish mechanically damaged weed seeds from nondamaged weed seeds. Our objectives were to 1) compare steepates from mechanically damaged seeds against steepates from nondamaged seeds for their capacities to reduce resazurin—a nontoxic, water-soluble dye that changes color and light absorbance properties in response to pH; and 2) use light absorbance data from steepate-resazurin solutions to create classification trees for distinguishing damaged from nondamaged weed seeds. Species in this study included barnyardgrass, curly dock, junglerice, kochia, oakleaf datura, Palmer amaranth, spurred anoda, stinkgrass, tall morningglory, and yellow foxtail. Seeds of each species were subjected to mechanical damage treatments that collectively represented a range of damage severities. Damaged and nondamaged seeds were individually soaked in water to produce steepates that were combined with resazurin. Light absorbance properties of steepate-resazurin solutions indicated that for all species except kochia, damaged seeds reduced resazurin to greater extents than nondamaged seeds. Prediction accuracy rates for classification trees that used absorbance values as predictor variables were conditioned by species and damage type. Prediction accuracy rates were relatively low (66% to 86% accurate) for lightly damaged seeds, especially grass weed seeds. Prediction accuracy rates were high (91% to 99% accurate) for severely damaged seeds of specific broadleaf and grass weeds. Steepate-resazurin solutions that successfully separated seeds took no more than 32 h to produce. The results of this study indicate that the resazurin assay is a method for quickly distinguishing damaged from nondamaged weed seeds. Because rapid assessments of seed intactness may accelerate the development of tactics for reducing the number of weed seeds in soil, we advocate further development of resazurin assays by laboratories studying methods for weed seedbank depletion.
Long working hours and change in body weight: analysis of individual-participant data from 19 cohort studies
Authors: Virtanen Marianna , Jokela Markus , Lallukka Tea , Magnusson Hanson Linda , Pentti Jaana , Nyberg Solja T. , Alfredsson Lars , Batty G. David , Casini Annalisa , Clays Els , DeBacquer Dirk , Ervasti Jenni , Fransson Eleonor , Halonen Jaana I. , Head Jenny , Kittel France , Knutsson Anders , Leineweber Constanze , Nordin Maria , Oksanen Tuula , Pietiläinen Olli , Rahkonen Ossi , Salo Paula , Singh-Manoux Archana , Stenholm Sari , Suominen Sakari B. , Theorell Töres , Vahtera Jussi , Westerholm Peter , Westerlund Hugo , Kivimäki Mika
Published: November 2019

Objective

To examine the relation between long working hours and change in body mass index (BMI).

Methods

We performed random effects meta-analyses using individual-participant data from 19 cohort studies from Europe, US and Australia (n = 122,078), with a mean of 4.4-year follow-up. Working hours were measured at baseline and categorised as part time (<35 h/week), standard weekly hours (35–40 h, reference), 41–48 h, 49–54 h and ≥55 h/week (long working hours). There were four outcomes at follow-up: (1) overweight/obesity (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2) or (2) overweight (BMI 25–29.9 kg/m2) among participants without overweight/obesity at baseline; (3) obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2) among participants with overweight at baseline, and (4) weight loss among participants with obesity at baseline.

Results

Of the 61,143 participants without overweight/obesity at baseline, 20.2% had overweight/obesity at follow-up. Compared with standard weekly working hours, the age-, sex- and socioeconomic status-adjusted relative risk (RR) of overweight/obesity was 0.95 (95% CI 0.90–1.00) for part-time work, 1.07 (1.02–1.12) for 41–48 weekly working hours, 1.09 (1.03–1.16) for 49–54 h and 1.17 (1.08–1.27) for long working hours (P for trend <0.0001). The findings were similar after multivariable adjustment and in subgroup analyses. Long working hours were associated with an excess risk of shift from normal weight to overweight rather than from overweight to obesity. Long working hours were not associated with weight loss among participants with obesity.

Conclusions

This analysis of large individual-participant data suggests a small excess risk of overweight among the healthy-weight people who work long hours.
Association of the prognostic model iSEND with PD-1/L1 monotherapy outcome in non-small-cell lung cancer
Authors: Park Wungki , Mezquita Laura , Okabe Naoyuki , Chae Young Kwang , Kwon Deukwoo , Saravia Diana , Auclin Edouard , Planchard David , Caramella Caroline , Ferrara Roberto , Agte Sarita , Oh Michael , Mudad Raja , Jahanzeb Mohammad , Suzuki Hiroyuki , Besse Benjamin , Lopes Gilberto
Published: November 2019

Background

Accessible biomarkers are needed for immunotherapy in advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We previously described a multivariate risk prediction model, the iSEND, which categorises advanced NSCLC patients treated with nivolumab into Good, Intermediate or Poor groups. This model was developed by using only clinical and analytical variables (sex, ECOG-performance status, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio [NLR] and post-treatment delta NLR).

Methods

An international database of 439 patients who received post-platinum PD-1/L1 monotherapies was collected for validation. Performance of the iSEND to different PD-L1 groups was compared by using time-dependent positive predictive value (PPV) for their mortality events.

Results

Median follow-up was 18.2 months (95% CI: 15.9–19.6). The overall survival of the iSEND Good (HR = 0.31, 95% CI: 0.22–0.43, p < 0.0001) was superior to the iSEND Poor. Time-dependent PPV for mortality of iSEND Poor was superior to PD-L1 = 0% group at 12 (75 vs. 53%, p = 0.01) and 18 months (85 vs. 46%, p = 0.03). However, female gender did not independently associate with better outcome in the validation cohort.

Conclusion

The iSEND model is associated with the outcome of post-platinum PD-1/L1 monotherapy in advanced NSCLC patients. The iSEND Poor demonstrated a superior performance to PD-L1 = 0% in negative prognostication. Prospective investigation and modelling with other significant parameters in a larger cohort are warranted.