bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Colon polyp detection using linked color imaging compared to white light imaging: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Shinozaki Satoshi , Kobayashi Yasutoshi , Hayashi Yoshikazu , Sakamoto Hirotsugu , Sunada Keijiro , Lefor Alan Kawarai , Yamamoto Hironori
Published: December 2019

Background and Aim

Linked color imaging (LCI) is a novel image‐enhancing technology which enhances color differences between a colorectal lesion and surrounding mucosa with enough brightness to illuminate the wide colorectal lumen. The aim of this study is to compare colorectal polyp detection using LCI with that using white light imaging (WLI).

Methods

Randomized controlled trials and prospective studies comparing LCI with WLI for colorectal polyp detection were selected. Outcomes included overall polyp/adenoma detection and additional polyp detection at a second observation. Outcomes were documented by pooled risk ratios (RR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) using the Mantel‐Haenszel random effect model.

Results

Seven studies were included. LCI showed significant superiority for polyp and adenoma detection compared with WLI (RR 1.16, 95% CI 1.09–1.25, P < 0.001 for polyp detection; RR 1.26, 95% CI 1.14–1.39 P < 0.001 for adenoma detection). LCI significantly increased the number of polyps detected per patient compared with WLI (mean difference 0.27, 95% CI 0.01–0.53, P = 0.040). LCI significantly increased the number of adenomas detected per patient compared with WLI (mean difference 0.22, 95% CI 0.08–0.36, P = 0.002). LCI significantly increased the number of flat polyps detected per patient compared with WLI (mean difference 0.14, 95% CI 0.01–0.27, P = 0.040). LCI had a significantly higher rate of additional polyp detection compared with WLI in the right colon (RR 2.68, 95% CI 1.71–4.19, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Linked color imaging has significantly greater polyp and adenoma detection rates and detection rate of previously missed polyps compared with WLI. We recommend the initial use of LCI for routine colonoscopy.
Atherosclerosis: Beyond the lipid storage hypothesis. The role of autoimmunity
Authors: Cinoku Ilir I. , Mavragani Clio P. , Moutsopoulos Haralampos M.
Published: December 2019

Atherosclerosis has long been considered as a lipid storage disease. Recent data suggest that autoimmune mechanisms seem to be involved in the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis. The presence of activated endothelial vascular cells, neutrophils, macrophages, T and to a lesser extent B cells in atherosclerotic plaques, together with the proinflammatory cytokine burden suggest mobilization of both innate and adaptive immune pathways in atherosclerosis pathobiology. The development of antibodies to oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (ox‐LDL), the experimental induction of atherosclerosis either via the transfer of T cells or immunization with autoantigens such as β2 glycoprotein Ι (β2‐GPI) and heat shock proteins (HSP) further support the autoimmune nature of atherosclerosis. However, classical immunosuppressive and immune‐modulatory drugs, successfully used in the therapy of autoimmune rheumatic diseases have shown limited benefits so far in the treatment of atherosclerosis.
Aridity drives spatiotemporal patterns of masting across the latitudinal range of a dryland conifer
Authors: Wion Andreas P. , Weisberg Peter J. , Pearse Ian S. , Redmond Miranda D.
Published: December 2019

Masting, or the synchronous and irregular production of seed crops, is controlled by environmental conditions and resource budgets. Increasing temperatures and shifting precipitation regimes may alter the frequency and magnitude of masting, especially in species that experience chronic resource stress. Yet the effects of a changing climate on seed production are unlikely to be uniform across populations, particularly those that span broad abiotic gradients. In this study, we assessed the spatiotemporal patterns of masting across the latitudinal distribution of a widely distributed dryland conifer species, piñon pine Pinus edulis. We quantified seed cone production from 2004 to 2017 using cone abscission scars in 187 trees from 28 sites along an 1100 km latitudinal gradient to investigate the spatiotemporal drivers of seed cone production and synchrony across populations. Populations from chronically hot and dry areas (greater climatic water deficits and less monsoonal precipitation) tended to have greater interannual variability in seed cone production and smaller crop sizes. Mast years generally followed years with low vapor pressure deficits and high precipitation during key periods of the reproductive process, but the strength of these relationships varied across the region. Populations that received greater monsoonal precipitation were less sensitive to late summer vapor pressure deficits during seed cone initiation yet more sensitive to spring vapor pressure deficits during pollination. Spatially correlated patterns of vapor pressure deficit better predicted synchrony in seed cone production than geographic distance, and these patterns were conserved at distances up to 500 km. These results demonstrate that aridity drives spatiotemporal variability in seed cone production. As a result, projected increases in aridity are likely to decrease the frequency and magnitude of masting in these dry forests and woodlands. Declines in seed production may compound climatic limitations to recruitment and impede tree regeneration, with cascading effects for numerous wildlife species.
A classification framework for Bacillus anthracis defined by global genomic structure
Authors: Bruce Spencer A. , Schiraldi Nicholas J. , Kamath Pauline L. , Easterday W. Ryan , Turner Wendy C.
Published: December 2019

Bacillus anthracis, the causative agent of anthrax, is a considerable global health threat affecting wildlife, livestock, and the general public. In this study, whole‐genome sequence analysis of over 350 B. anthracis isolates was used to establish a new high‐resolution global genotyping framework that is both biogeographically informative and compatible with multiple genomic assays. The data presented in this study shed new light on the diverse global dissemination of this species and indicate that many lineages may be uniquely suited to the geographic regions in which they are found. In addition, we demonstrate that plasmid genomic structure for this species is largely consistent with chromosomal population structure, suggesting vertical inheritance in this bacterium has contributed to its evolutionary persistence. This classification methodology is the first based on population genomic structure for this species and has potential use for local and broader institutions seeking to understand both disease outbreak origins and recent introductions. In addition, we provide access to a newly developed genotyping script as well as the full whole‐genome sequence analyses output for this study, allowing future studies to rapidly employ and append their data in the context of this global collection. This framework may act as a powerful tool for public health agencies, wildlife disease laboratories, and researchers seeking to utilize and expand this classification scheme for further investigations into B. anthracis evolution.
Springtail phylogeography highlights biosecurity risks of repeated invasions and intraregional transfers among remote islands
Authors: Baird Helena P. , Moon Katherine L. , Janion‐Scheepers Charlene , Chown Steven L.
Published: December 2019

Human‐mediated transport of species outside their natural range is a rapidly growing threat to biodiversity, particularly for island ecosystems that have evolved in isolation. The genetic structure underpinning island populations will largely determine their response to increased transport and thus help to inform biosecurity management. However, this information is severely lacking for some groups, such as the soil fauna. We therefore analysed the phylogeographic structure of an indigenous and an invasive springtail species (Collembola: Poduromorpha), each distributed across multiple remote sub‐Antarctic islands, where human activity is currently intensifying. For both species, we generated a genome‐wide SNP data set and additionally analysed all available COI barcodes. Genetic differentiation in the indigenous springtail Tullbergia bisetosa is substantial among (and, to a lesser degree, within) islands, reflecting low dispersal and historic population fragmentation, while COI patterns reveal ancestral signatures of postglacial recolonization. This pronounced geographic structure demonstrates the key role of allopatric divergence in shaping the region's diversity and highlights the vulnerability of indigenous populations to genetic homogenization via human transport. For the invasive species Hypogastrura viatica, nuclear genetic structure is much less apparent, particularly for islands linked by regular shipping, while diverged COI haplotypes indicate multiple independent introductions to each island. Thus, human transport has likely facilitated this species’ persistence since its initial colonization, through the ongoing introduction and inter‐island spread of genetic variation. These findings highlight the different evolutionary consequences of human transport for indigenous and invasive soil species. Crucially, both outcomes demonstrate the need for improved intraregional biosecurity among remote island systems, where the policy focus to date has been on external introductions.
They May Disapprove, but I Still Love You: Attachment Behaviors Moderate the Effect of Social Disapproval on Marital Relationship Quality
Authors: Bradford Angela B. , Drean Lauren , Sandberg Jonathan G. , Johnson Lee N.
Published: December 2019

The degree of approval for a relationship from one’s social network has been shown to predict relationship outcomes. Additional research has shown that attachment can buffer the negative effects of various factors (e.g., depression) on relationships. Using an actor–partner interdependence model in an SEM framework, we research the effects of disapproval from parents and friends for one’s relationship on marital relationship quality for self and partner in a sample of 858 married couples. We also examine whether each spouse’s attachment behaviors can moderate these effects. Results indicated that one’s own attachment behaviors moderate the effects of their own parents’ and friends’ disapproval on their self‐reported relationship quality for both men and women. Partner’s attachment behaviors moderate own friend’s disapproval on self‐reported relationship quality for men and women; additionally, the main effect of partner’s friends’ and parents’ disapproval became nonsignificant with that test. The findings provide evidence that attachment behaviors of both partners play a role in buffering the negative effects of the social network disapproval on relationship outcomes. Clinical implications are discussed.
Comparing GLM, GLMM, and GEE modeling approaches for catch rates of bycatch species: A case study of blue shark fisheries in the South Atlantic
Authors: Coelho Rui , Infante Paulo , Santos Miguel N.
Published: December 2019

Modeling and understanding the catch rate dynamics of marine species is extremely important for fisheries management and conservation. For oceanic highly migratory species in particular, usually only fishery‐dependent data are available which have limitations in the assumption of independence and if often zero‐inflated and/or overdispersed. We tested different modeling approaches applied to the case study of blue shark in the South Atlantic, by using generalized linear models (GLMs), generalized linear mixed models (GLMMs), and generalized estimating equations (GEEs), as well as different error distributions to deal with the presence of zeros in the data. We used fractional polynomials to deal with non‐linearity in some of the explanatory variables. Operational (set level) data collected by onboard fishery observers, covering 762 longline sets (1,014,527 hooks) over a 9‐year period (2008–2016), were used. One of the most important variables affecting catch rates is leader material, with increasing catches when wire leaders are used. Spatial and seasonal variables are also important, with higher catch rates expected toward temperate southern waters and eastern longitudes, particularly between July and September. Environmental variables, especially SST, also affect catches. There were no major differences in the parameters estimated with GLMs, GLMMs, or GEEs; however, the use of GLMMs or GEEs should be more appropriate due to fishery dependence in the data. Comparing those two approaches, GLMMs seem to perform better in terms of goodness‐of‐fit and model validation.
Biomass increases attributed to both faster tree growth and altered allometric relationships under long‐term carbon dioxide enrichment at a temperate forest
Authors: Kim Dohyoung , Medvigy David , Maier Chris A. , Johnsen Kurt , Palmroth Sari
Published: December 2019

Increases in atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations are expected to lead to increases in the rate of tree biomass accumulation, at least temporarily. On the one hand, trees may simply grow faster under higher CO2concentrations, preserving the allometric relations that prevailed under lower CO2concentrations. Alternatively, the allometric relations themselves may change. In this study, the effects of elevated CO2(eCO2) on tree biomass and allometric relations were jointly assessed. Over 100 trees, grown at Duke Forest, NC, USA, were harvested from eight plots. Half of the plots had been subjected to CO2enrichment from 1996 to 2010. Several subplots had also been subjected to nitrogen fertilization from 2005 to 2010. Allometric equations were developed to predict tree height, stem volume, and aboveground biomass components for loblolly pine (Pinus taedaL.), the dominant tree species, and broad‐leaved species. Using the same diameter‐based allometric equations for biomass, it was estimated that plots with eCO2contained 21% more aboveground biomass, consistent with previous studies. However, eCO2significantly affected allometry, and these changes had an additional effect on biomass. In particular,P. taedatrees at a given diameter were observed to be taller under eCO2than under ambient CO2due to changes in both the allometric scaling exponent and intercept. Accounting for allometric change increased the treatment effect of eCO2on aboveground biomass from a 21% to a 27% increase. No allometric changes for the nondominant broad‐leaved species were identified, nor were allometric changes associated with nitrogen fertilization. ForP. taeda, it is concluded that eCO2affects allometries, and that knowledge of allometry changes is necessary to accurately compute biomass under eCO2. Further observations are needed to determine whether this assessment holds for other taxa.
The association of thinking styles with research agendas among academics in the social sciences
Authors: Santos João M. , Horta Hugo , Zhang Li‐fang
Published: December 2019

Research agendas are understudied, despite being key to academic knowledge creation. The literature suggests that the ways that academics determine their research agendas are conditioned by individual, organisational and environmental characteristics. This study explores the cognitive aspects of academics' research agendas in the social sciences by using a theory on thinking styles as an analytical framework. The results suggest that the research agendas of academics in the social sciences are significantly associated with their thinking styles. These findings aid understanding of how academics set their research agendas. This study also represents an important landmark in research on thinking styles, focusing on academic research work as a potential venue for further studies. The findings are relevant for policymakers, research funding agencies, university administrators and academics because they have implications for academic research development processes, outcomes, and for research and academic identity socialisation during doctoral studies.
Living with epidermolysis bullosa: Daily challenges and health‐care needs
Authors: Kearney Sandra , Donohoe Ann , McAuliffe Eilish
Published: December 2019

Background & Objective

Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is the term used for a group of genetic skin fragility disorders. For those living with EB, pain represents a constant challenge, with blistering and tasks such as changing dressings, adding to the distress. This paper focuses on describing and exploring the health‐care needs of children, adults and families who are affected by EB. The specific aim of the paper is to identify the needs of the EB population with a view towards informing the development of a community liaison service to support adults living with EB and the parents/carers of children living with EB.

Setting and Participants

Interviews with six adults and the parents of eight children with EB were conducted. The data were analysed thematically. All participants were resident on the island of Ireland and are therefore reflecting on services in this geographic region.

Results

Participants’ needs were grouped into five themes: support managing physical health‐care issues; access to community/home‐based services; EB‐specific information and psychosocial support; effective interaction with health‐care professionals; and advice regarding benefits and entitlements.

Discussion and Conclusions

This article represents the health‐care needs and preferences of a broad spectrum of those with EB, highlighting the need for a comprehensive service regardless of the severity of the condition.
Synthesis and characterization of sol gel derived nontoxic CZTS thin films without sulfurization
Authors: Amrit Pratyay , Jain Surbhi , Tomar Monika , Gupta Vinay , Joshi Bhawana
Published: December 2019

Recently, great attention has been paid to the development of earth rich and nonhazardous Copper Zinc Tin Sulfide (CZTS–Cu2ZnSnS4) thin films for application in photovoltaic devices owing to its high absorption coefficient over the visible and infrared region. However, sulfurization process is an indispensable step in growing stoichiometric thin film using conventional physical vapor deposition. Hence, it is imperative to devise a liquid based technique without intentional sulfurization for the optimum quality growth of CZTS thin films. In the current work, layer‐by‐layer sol‐gel deposition technique was utilized to grow high quality CZTS thin films without sulfurization and their structural and optical characteristics were investigated using XRD studies and UV‐visible spectroscopy respectively. The morphology and chemical composition of the prepared CZTS films are estimated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis respectively. Highly absorbing and crystalline CZTS films have been successfully grown in the present work which could be further utilized as an absorber layer in photovoltaic applications.
Infants’ reasoning about samples generated by intentional versus non‐intentional agents
Authors: Attisano Elizabeth , Denison Stephanie
Published: December 2019

The current experiments investigate how infants use goal‐directed action to reason about intentionally sampled outcomes in a probabilistic inference paradigm. Older infants and young children are flexible in their expectations of sampling: They expect random samples to reflect population statistics and non‐random samples to reflect an agent's preferences or goals (Kushnir, Xu, & Wellman, 2010; Xu & Denison, 2009). However, more recent work shows that probabilistic inference comes online at approximately 6 months (Denison, Reed, & Xu, 2013; Kayhan, Gredebäck, & Lindskog, 2017; Ma & Xu, 2011; Wellman, Kushnir, Xu, & Brink, 2016), and thus, these sampling assumptions can be investigated at the age probabilistic reasoning first emerges. Results indicate that 6‐month‐old infants expect a human agent to sample in accord with their goal and do not expect the same of an unintentional agent—a mechanical claw. By 9.5 months, infants expect the mechanical claw to sample in accord with random sampling. These results suggest that infants use goals to make inferences about intentional sampling, under appropriate conditions at 6 months, and they have expectations of the kinds of samples a mechanical device should obtain by 9.5 months.
Influence of grain interior and grain boundaries on transport properties of scandium‐doped calcium zirconate
Authors: Ding Yushi , Li Ying , Huang Wenlong
Published: December 2019

Calcium zirconate‐based protonic conductors are currently the most promising electrolyte for high‐temperature hydrogen sensors, however, protonic conductors exhibit mixed protons, oxygen vacancies and electron‐holes conduction above 700°C, and the protons transport number is significantly influenced by the atmosphere. Therefore, the relationship between protons transport number and oxygen/water vapor partial pressure should be established to improve the veracity of the hydrogen sensor. Herein, CaZr0.9Sc0.1O3‐α perovskite oxides are prepared and the influence of grain interior and grain boundaries on transport properties is systematically investigated by using with defect chemistry theory. And the relationship between protons transport number and oxygen/water vapor partial pressure should be obtained. The results indicate that the dominant conduction carriers of CaZr0.9Sc0.1O3‐α were protons in Ar and reductive atmospheres at 500°C‐800°C, and the conductivity () and transport number () of holes are remarkably increased with increasing oxygen partial pressure. In addition, protons, oxygen vacancies and electron‐holes transport properties of grain interior and grain boundaries in scandium‐doped calcium zirconate reveal that grains can effectively block oxygen vacancies transport at 550°C‐800°C, but grains cannot block the holes transport. Therefore, the oxygen vacancies trend to transport through grain boundaries.
Real‐world outcomes of ventricular tachycardia catheter ablation with versus without intracardiac echocardiography
Authors: Field Michael E. , Gold Michael R. , Reynolds Matthew R. , Goldstein Laura , Lee Stephanie Hsiao Yu , Kalsekar Iftekhar , Coplan Paul , Wong Charlene , Khanna Rahul , Winterfield Jeffrey R.
Published: December 2019

Introduction

By providing real‐time monitoring of catheter‐tissue interface and for complications, intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) during catheter ablation for ventricular tachycardia (VT) may improve outcomes. To test this hypothesis, we compared 12‐month readmission rates (all‐cause, cardiovascular [CV]‐related, and VT‐related), repeat ablation, and complications among patients with VT with structural heart disease undergoing ablation with versus without ICE.

Methods and results

Using the 2008‐2017 IBM MarketScan Commercial and Medicare Supplemental databases, patients with a history of implantable cardioverter defibrillator/cardiac resynchronization therapy (ICD/CRT‐D) who underwent VT ablation with and without ICE use were identified. Propensity matching was performed and regression analysis was used to compare outcomes. After matching, 1324 patients were identified (ICE: 662; non‐ICE: 662). The rate of 12‐month VT‐related readmission (18.13% vs 22.51%; P < .05) and repeat VT ablation (14.35% vs 19.34%; P = .02) postindex discharge were lower among patients in the ICE group compared with the non‐ICE group, with a 24% lower risk of 12‐month VT‐related readmission (odds ratio [OR], 0.76; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.58‐0.99) and a 30% lower risk of repeat ablation (OR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.52‐0.93) vs non‐ICE group. The 12‐month all‐cause (44.56% vs 43.20%; P = .62) and CV‐related readmissions (35.20% vs 32.93%; P = 0.38) and complication rates were not significantly different between the two groups.

Conclusions

VT ablation using ICE was associated with a lower likelihood of 12‐month VT‐related readmission and repeat ablation compared with non‐ICE patients.
Clinical and patient‐centred long‐term results of root coverage using the envelope technique in a private practice setting: 10‐year results—A case series
Authors: Petsos Hari , Eickholz Peter , Raetzke Peter , Nickles Katrin , Dannewitz Bettina , Hansmeier Ulrich
Published: December 2019

Aim

Evaluation of long‐term results after connective tissue graft (CTG) using the envelope technique and the effect on patient‐centred outcomes (Oral Health Impact Profile: OHIP) in a private practice setting.

Materials and Methods

Fifteen patients (11 female, mean age: 45.0 ± 8.88 years) underwent root coverage procedure using a CTG involving maxillary Miller class I teeth. Pre‐operatively, 3 and 120 ± 12 months after surgery, all patients were examined, completed OHIP questionnaire, and were asked to assess improvement and their satisfaction with the results of surgery. All procedures were performed by the same investigator.

Results

Recession depth at 3 months of 1.19 ± 0.93 mm was reduced to that of 0.63 ± 0.64 mm at 120 ± 12 months after surgery (p = .117). Recession width (−1.23 ± 2.27 mm) decreased as well (p = .117), while relative root coverage increased from 48.46 ± 32.18% at 3 months to 71.22 ± 30.86% at 120 months (p = .011). The number of cases with complete root coverage increased from two (15.4%) to six (40.0%) from 3 to 120 months (p = .046). OHIP score (12.07 ± 10.15) did not change after 10 years (12.13 ± 9.86, p = .889). Ten years after surgery, 12 patients (80%) reported they would make the decision again to undergo CTG transplantation.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of the study design with a high risk of bias in a practice setting, long‐term stability of recession reduction, OHIP and patient‐perceived satisfaction remained stable over 10 years.
Relationship between metformin use and vitamin B12 status in patients with type 2 diabetes in Japan
Authors: Sugawara Kenji , Okada Yuko , Hirota Yushi , Sakaguchi Kazuhiko , Ogawa Wataru
Published: December 2019

Aims/Introduction

Metformin therapy has been associated with vitamin B12 (VB12) deficiency, but information regarding this adverse effect in Asian populations is limited. We have now examined the relationship between metformin use and VB12 status in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Japan.

Materials and Methods

This cross‐sectional study was carried out with type 2 diabetes mellitus patients treated (Met group, n = 122) or not treated (control group, n = 63) with metformin. The primary end‐point was the difference in the serum concentration of homocysteine, a marker of VB12 activity, between the two groups. The serum concentrations of VB12, blood hemoglobin level and mean corpuscular volume were also compared between the groups. Subset analysis was carried out with individuals aged ≥70 years. The potential correlation between the daily dose or duration of metformin treatment and the other measured parameters was also examined.

Results

The level of homocysteine, as well as the VB12 level, hemoglobin concentration and mean corpuscular volume, did not differ significantly between the control and treated with metformin groups. The level of homocysteine was positively and that of VB12 negatively correlated with the daily dose of metformin. Among elderly individuals, the hemoglobin level was significantly lower in the treated with metformin group than in the control group, although the mean corpuscular volume was similar in the two groups.

Conclusions

The risk of VB12 deficiency during metformin treatment appears to be low in Japanese type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. However, high doses of metformin might result in a moderate decrease in the circulating VB12 level, as well as in anemia in elderly individuals.
Drying of ginger slices—Evaluation of quality attributes, energy consumption, and kinetics study
Authors: Osae Richard , Essilfie Gloria , Alolga Raphael N. , Bonah Ernest , Ma Haile , Zhou Cunshan
Published: December 2019

Ginger slices were dried with Freeze drier (FD), relative humidity convective drier (RHCD), infrared drier (IR), and microwave drier (MD) at a temperature of 60°C. The influence of the drying techniques on total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), antioxidant activities, ABTS (2,2‐azino‐bis‐(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid), DPPH (1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl), FRAP (Ferric reducing antioxidant power capacity), and CUPRAC (Cupric ion reducing capacity), rehydration ratio (RR), color, enzyme inactivation (polyphenol oxidase, PPO and peroxidase, POD), energy consumption rate (ECR), microstructure, volatile compounds (aroma profile), and drying kinetics were assessed. The results showed that FD‐ginger slices retained the highest antioxidant properties, ABTS (51.88 mgTE/g db), CUPRAC (95.51 mgTE/g db), DPPH (132.95 mgTE/g db), and FRAP (95.32 mgTE/g db), TPC (118.70 mg GAE/g db) and TFC (98.94 mg CE/g db), preserved microstructure and higher volatile compounds compared RHCD, IR, and MD. The RHCD‐ginger slices attained the highest RR (3.6), lowest ECR (7.88 kWh/kg), lowest PPO (17%), and POD (22%) residual activity with preserved color properties than FD, IR, and MD. RHCD also enhanced the drying kinetics and lessened the drying time compared to FD, IR, and MD. Page model best fitted the experimental results of drying kinetics (R2 > 0.99).

Practical application

One of the world's most consumed and used spices is ginger and due to its high moisture content, drying is normally used for its preservation. Therefore, to attain dried ginger of better quality, an effective, safe, efficient drier that can preserve product quality and reduce processing time, as well as energy consumption, is required for commercial purposes as a poor selection can have an adverse effect on the product quality. The outcome of the current investigation will offer a better understanding of various drying techniques and also provide more information on the selection of the best drying technique for drying ginger.
Impact of Baseline Fatigue on a Physical Activity Intervention to Prevent Mobility Disability
Authors: Glynn Nancy W. , Gmelin Theresa , Santanasto Adam J. , Lovato Laura C. , Lange‐Maia Brittney S. , Nicklas Barbara J. , Fielding Roger A. , Manini Todd M. , Myers Valerie H. , de Rekeneire Nathalie , Spring Bonnie J. , Pahor Marco , King Abby C. , Rejeski W. Jack , Newman Anne B. ,   for the Lifestyle Interventions and Independence for Elders Study Group
Published: December 2019

OBJECTIVES

Our aim was to examine the impacts of baseline fatigue on the effectiveness of a physical activity (PA) intervention to prevent major mobility disability (MMD) and persistent major mobility disability (PMMD) in participants from the Lifestyle Interventions and Independence for Elders (LIFE) study.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort of individuals aged 65 years or older undergoing structured PA intervention or health education (HE) for a mean of 2.6 years.

SETTING

LIFE was a multicenter eight‐site randomized trial that compared the efficacy of a structured PA intervention with an HE program in reducing the incidence of MMD.

PARTICIPANTS

Study participants (N = 1591) at baseline were 78.9 ± 5.2 years of age, with low PA and at risk for mobility impairment.

MEASUREMENTS

Self‐reported fatigue was assessed using the modified trait version of the Exercise‐Induced Feelings Inventory, a six‐question scale rating energy levels in the past week. Responses ranged from 0 (none of the time) to 5 (all of the time). Total score was calculated by averaging across questions; baseline fatigue was based on the median split: 2 or higher = more fatigue (N = 856) and lower than 2 = less fatigue (N = 735). Participants performed a usual‐paced 400‐m walk every 6 months. We defined incident MMD as the inability to walk 400‐m at follow‐up visits; PMMD was defined as two consecutive walk failures. Cox proportional hazard models quantified the risk of MMD and PMMD in PA vs HE stratified by baseline fatigue adjusted for covariates.

RESULTS

Among those with higher baseline fatigue, PA participants had a 29% and 40% lower risk of MMD and PMMD, respectively, over the trial compared with HE (hazard ratio [HR] for MMD = .71; 95% confidence interval [CI] = .57‐.90; P = .004) and PMMD (HR = .60; 95% CI = .44‐.82; P = .001). For those with lower baseline fatigue, no group differences in MMD (P = .36) or PMMD (P = .82) were found. Results of baseline fatigue by intervention interaction was MMD (P = .18) and PMMD (P = .05).

CONCLUSION

A long‐term moderate intensity PA intervention was particularly effective at preserving mobility in older adults with higher levels of baseline fatigue. J Am Geriatr Soc 68:619–624, 2020
The capsule of human Meissner corpuscles: immunohistochemical evidence
Authors: García‐Piqueras Jorge , Cobo Ramón , Cárcaba Lucía. , García‐Mesa Yolanda , Feito Jorge , Cobo Juan , García‐Suárez Olivia , Vega José A.
Published: December 2019

Meissner corpuscles are cutaneous mechanoreceptors that are usually located in the dermal papillae of human glabrous skin. Structurally, these sensory corpuscles consist of a mechanoreceptive sensory neuron surrounded by non‐myelinating lamellar Schwann‐like cells. Some authors have described a partially developed fibroblastic capsule of endoneurial or perineurial origin around Meissner corpuscles; however, others have noted that these structures are non‐encapsulated. As there is continuity between the periaxonic cells forming the sensory corpuscles and the cells of the nerve trunks, we used immunohistochemistry to examine the expression of endoneurial (CD34 antigen) or perineurial [Glucose transporter 1 (Glut1)] markers in human cutaneous Meissner corpuscles. We also investigated the immunohistochemical patterns of nestin and vimentin (the main intermediate filaments of the cytoskeleton of endoneurial and perineurial cells, respectively) in Meissner corpuscles. The most important finding from this study was that CD34‐positive cells formed a partial/complete capsule of endoneurial origin around most Meissner corpuscles, without signs of other perineurial Glut1‐positive elements. However, the cytoskeletal proteins of the capsular CD34‐positive cells did not include either nestin or vimentin, so the cytoskeletal composition of these cells remains to be established. Finally, the intensity of the immunoreactivity for CD34 in the capsule decreased with ageing, sometimes becoming completely absent in the oldest individuals. In conclusion, we report the first immunohistochemical evidence of the capsule of Meissner corpuscles in humans and demonstrate the endoneurial origin of the capsule.
Evolutionary trajectories of tooth histology patterns in modern sharks (Chondrichthyes, Elasmobranchii)
Authors: Jambura Patrick L. , Türtscher Julia , Kindlimann René , Metscher Brian , Pfaff Cathrin , Stumpf Sebastian , Weber Gerhard W. , Kriwet Jürgen
Published: December 2019

During their evolutionary history, modern sharks developed different tooth mineralization patterns that resulted in very distinct histological patterns of the tooth crown (histotypes). To date, three different tooth histotypes have been distinguished: (i) orthodont teeth, which have a central hollow pulp cavity in the crown, encapsulated by a prominent layer of dentine (orthodentine); (ii) pseudoosteodont teeth, which have their pulp cavities secondarily replaced by a dentinal core of porous dentine (osteodentine), encased by orthodentine; and (iii) osteodont teeth, which lack orthodentine and the whole tooth crown of which consists of osteodentine. The aim of the present study was to trace evolutionary trends of tooth mineralization patterns in modern sharks and to find evidence for the presence of phylogenetic or functional signals. High resolution micro‐computed tomography images were generated for the teeth of members of all nine extant shark orders and the putative stem group †Synechodontiformes, represented here by three taxa, to examine the tooth histology non‐destructively. Pseudoosteodonty is the predominant state among modern sharks and represents unambiguously the plesiomorphic condition. Orthodonty evolved several times independently in modern sharks, while the osteodont tooth histotype is only developed in lamniform sharks. The two shark orders Heterodontiformes and Pristiophoriformes showed highly modified tooth histologies, with Pristiophorus exhibiting a histology only known from batomorphs (i.e. rays and skates), and Heterodontus showing a histological difference between anterior and posterior teeth, indicating a link between its tooth morphology, histology and durophagous lifestyle. The tooth histotype concept has proven to be a useful tool to reflect links between histology, function and its taxonomic value for distinct taxa; however, a high degree of variation, especially in the pseudoosteodont tooth histotype, demonstrates that the current histotype concept is too simplistic to fully resolve these relationships. The vascularization pattern of the dentine might offer new future research pathways for better understanding functional and phylogenetic signals in the tooth histology of modern sharks.
Factors Influencing Low Sodium Intake in People with Non‐Dialysis Dependent Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Wright Hattie H. , Kickbusch Heidi , Swanepoel Elizabeth , Gray Nicholas
Published: December 2019

Objective

To evaluate dietary sodium intake in people with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and identify contributing factors to low sodium intake by applying the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) framework.

Design and Methods

Non‐dialysed people with CKD completed a 24‐hour urinary sodium excretion test and Scored Salt Questionnaire (SSQ). A survey including socio‐demographic information, Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire, Short Sodium Knowledge Survey and Dietary Sodium Restriction Questionnaire based on TPB measured the factors contributing to dietary adherence.

Results

Sixty‐three people [age: 71 (IQR: 64–77); 27% female] participated with 80% having high urinary sodium excretion [median: 134 mmol/day (111; 183)] but only 40% reported high sodium intake [SSQ score = 53 (39; 75)]. Overall sodium knowledge was high in 57% of participants although only 33% had seen a dietitian. There was a positive correlation between attitude towards a low‐sodium diet and subjective norm (social expectations), r = 0.44, p < 0.01; urinary sodium and the extent of perceived consequences of CKD (r = 0.26, p < 0.05); and the extent to which willpower was perceived as a barrier to adherence to dietary sodium restriction (r = 0.27, p < 0.05). Multiple regression analysis revealed taste of low‐salt foods (β = 8.9, p < 0.01) explained 26.4% of variance in dietary sodium intake (R2 = 0.264, F(12, 34), p < 0.01).

Conclusion

TPB successfully identified barriers to follow a low‐sodium diet in non‐dialysed people with CKD. Taste preferences, willpower, meeting social expectations and disease concern were identified as key contributing factors to adherence.
The geography of unsheltered homelessness in the city: Evidence from “311” calls in New York
Authors: Corinth Kevin , Finley Grace
Published: December 2019

We provide the first detailed evidence on the distribution of unsheltered homelessness within the city. We rely on “311” call data reporting unsheltered homeless individuals to New York City authorities, based on evidence that the distribution of calls reflects their actual locations. Centrality dominates an otherwise important role of median income in explaining variation in unsheltered homelessness across neighborhoods. Subway stations and restaurants are important as well. We also find that police respond more quickly to calls in more affluent and central neighborhoods. This suggests that the distribution of homelessness across neighborhoods could affect the city's overall response.
Effects of dietary γ‐aminobutyric acid supplementation on antioxidant status, blood hormones and meat quality in growing‐finishing pigs undergoing transport stress
Authors: Bi Chongpeng , Yin Jiajia , Yang Wei , Shi Baoming , Shan Anshan
Published: December 2019

γ‐Aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a natural nonprotein amino acid distributed in animals, plants and microbes. GABA is an inhibiting neurotransmitter which takes great effect in mammalian central nervous system. We carried out the research to study the influence of GABA on blood hormone concentrations, antioxidant status and meat quality in fattening pigs after transportation. The 72 pigs with a starting weight of approximately 32.67 ± 0.62 kg were randomly allocated to 2 groups based on dietary treatments, containing 6 replicates with 6 pigs in each. The pigs were fed dietary supplementation of GABA (0 or 30 mg/kg of diets) for 74 days. Twelve pigs were randomly selected from each group and assigned to the either 1 hr of transport (T group) or no transport (N group), resulting in two‐factor factorial design. Compared to the control, GABA supplementation increased average daily gain (ADG) (p < .01) and decreased feed–gain ratio (F/G) (p < .05). The pH45 min was lower and drip loss was greater in the longissimus muscles (LM) of post‐slaughter of transported pigs (p < .05). The pH45 min of 0/T group (group with 0 mg/kg GABA and transport) was significantly lower than the pH45 min of the 30/T group (diet × transport; p < .05). GABA supplementation significantly increased serum glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px) concentration (p < .05) before transportation. Following transport, pigs fed GABA had decreased concentrations of serum malonaldehyde (MDA), adrenal cortical hormone and cortisol (p < .05). The results indicate that feeding GABA significantly increased the growth performance of growing‐finishing pigs. The transportation model negatively impacted meat quality, antioxidant indexes and hormone parameters, but dietary supplementation of GABA could suppress the rise of drip loss of LM, ACTH and COR and suppress the drop of pH45 min of LM after transportation stress in growing‐finishing pigs. Feeding GABA alleviated transportation stress in pigs.
Preliminary investigation of serum cardiac troponin I in dogs with acute ischaemic stroke
Authors: Gonçalves R. , Sanchez‐Masian D. , Maddox T. W. , Dukes‐McEwan J.
Published: December 2019

Objectives

To describe the incidence of elevated serum cardiac troponin I in dogs with acute ischaemic strokes, to evaluate its prognostic value in these patients and characterise a possible relationship between cardiac troponin I elevation in dogs with ischaemic strokes and underlying cardiac dysfunction.

Materials and Methods

Prospective study of 18 dogs with acute ischaemic stroke diagnosed by MRI of the brain. Serum cardiac troponin I concentration, trans‐thoracic echocardiography and six‐lead electrocardiography were performed and findings were compared between dogs with good and poor outcome.

Results

Serum cardiac troponin I was increased in 17 dogs (median 0.95 ng/mL; range 0.146 to 153). Focal hyperechoic regions of myocardium were visible in two dogs using trans‐thoracic echocardiography and presumed to represent acute infarcts. A significant association was found between cardiac troponin I and creatinine concentrations. No difference in cardiac troponin I concentrations was detected between dogs that experienced good and poor outcomes. Clinically important cardiac dysfunction was identified in two dogs.

Clinical Significance

Cardiac troponin I is commonly elevated in patients diagnosed with acute ischaemic stroke but, in this small study population, did not have prognostic value. Larger studies (recruiting a study population of 98 dogs for a power of 0.8 and a 0.05 alpha/critical value) would aid in further investigation of these preliminary results.
Insomnia does not affect heart rate changes when young adults watch humorous films: An exploratory study
Authors: Altena Ellemarije , Bastien Célyne H. , Sanz‐Arigita Ernesto J. , Daviaux Yannick , Bioulac Stéphanie , Micoulaud‐Franchi Jean‐Arthur , Taillard Jacques , Philip Pierre
Published: December 2019

Emotional reactivity in insomnia is affected both subjectively and on a physiological level for negative emotional material, but little is known about reactions to positive stimuli. We here investigated whether in younger adult insomnia patients, presentation of short humorous films would lead to heart rate decreases during and after film viewing, as compared to heart rate changes when falling asleep. Investigating 20 participants with DSM‐5‐diagnosed insomnia and 18 participants without insomnia, we found that heart rate decreased when falling asleep, increased when watching humorous films and returned to normal values afterwards for all participants. Film‐related heart rate increases were strongly related to humour ratings of the films. No differences were found between those with and without insomnia on subjective ratings of the films, film‐related heart rate changes or when falling asleep. We conclude that the experience of positive daily life stimuli in younger adults is not affected by insomnia in our study, despite insomnia having a known more profound effect on negative stimuli. Future studies exploring insomnia‐related autonomous nervous system responses combining different neurophysiological modalities should confirm our findings.
Theory of Mind and Language in Childhood Epilepsy
Authors: Bailey Katharine , Im‐Bolter Nancie
Published: December 2019

We examined theory of mind (ToM; mental state understanding) and language in children with epilepsy (EP; n = 10; mean age = 9.92, SD = 2.34) and with typical development (TD; n = 20; mean age = 10.05, SD = 2.08). The EP group demonstrated worse ToM compared to the TD group (t(28) = −1.11, p = .28, d = .44) but differences did not persist when controlling for language. Syntactic language was correlated with ToM in the EP group (rho (10) = .79, p < .01). This study confirms language is important for ToM in a group of children with a neurological disorder and indicates that children with epilepsy are at risk for difficulties in understanding the mental states of others due to their language deficits. This may help to explain the social difficulties these children have with their peers.
Genital nevus lipomatosus cutaneous superficialis: A diagnostic challenge in a pediatric patient
Authors: Liu Regina , Arzeno Julia , Lonowski Sarah , Smart Chandra , Cheng Carol
Published: December 2019

Nevus lipomatosus cutaneous superficialis (NLCS) is an idiopathic hamartomatous condition characterized by the presence of mature adipose tissue in the dermis. We report a case of NLCS initially misdiagnosed as condyloma acuminata in a 14‐year‐old boy. This case highlights classic clinical and histologic features of NLCS. The case presented here underscores the need for a high degree of clinical suspicion in diagnosing NLCS and in differentiating benign anogenital lesions from sexually transmitted conditions to avoid unnecessary work‐up and undue emotional stress.