bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation of miRNA expression with intensity of neuropathic pain in man
Authors: Tavares-Ferreira Diana , Lawless Nathan , Bird Emma V , Atkins Simon , Collier David , Sher Emanuele , Malki Karim , Lambert Daniel W , Boissonade Fiona M
Published: June 2019

Background

Peripheral nerve injury causes changes in expression of multiple receptors and mediators that participate in pain processing. We investigated the expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) – a class of post-transcriptional regulators involved in many physiological and pathophysiological processes – and their potential role in the development or maintenance of chronic neuropathic pain following lingual nerve injury in human and rat.

Methods

We profiled miRNA expression in Sprague-Dawley rat and human lingual nerve neuromas using TaqMan® low-density array cards. Expression of miRNAs of interest was validated via specific probes and correlated with nerve injury-related behavioural change in rat (time spent drinking) and clinical pain (visual analogue scale (VAS) score). Target prediction was performed using publicly available algorithms; gene enrichment and pathway analysis were conducted with MetaCore. Networks of miRNAs and putative target genes were created with Cytoscape; interaction of miRNAs and target genomes in rat and human was displayed graphically using CircosPlot.

Results

rno-miR-138 was upregulated in lingual nerve of injured rats versus sham controls. rno-miR-138 and rno-miR-667 expression correlated with behavioural change at day 3 post-injury (with negative (rno-miR-138) and positive (rno-miR-667) correlations between expression and time spent drinking). In human, hsa-miR-29a was downregulated in lingual nerve neuromas of patients with higher pain VAS scores (painful group) versus patients with lower pain VAS scores (non-painful). A statistically significant negative correlation was observed between expression of both hsa-miR-29a and hsa-miR-500a, and pain VAS score.

Conclusions

Our results show that following lingual nerve injury, there are highly significant correlations between abundance of specific miRNAs, altered behaviour and pain scores. This study provides the first demonstration of correlations between human miRNA levels and VAS scores for neuropathic pain and suggests a potential contribution of specific miRNAs to the development of chronic pain following lingual nerve injury. Putative targets for candidate miRNAs include genes related to interleukin and chemokine receptors and potassium channels.
A Meta-analysis of the Types and Outcomes of Conservative Excisional Surgery for Recalcitrant or Infected Diabetic Toe Ulcers
Authors: Yammine Kaissar , Assi Chahine
Published: June 2019

Although they occur frequently, diabetic toe ulcers (DTUs) are poorly investigated. Long-term antibiotics or toe amputation are the usual indications for complicated DTU treatment. Some authors reported good to excellent results following conservative surgery (CS) for recalcitrant or infected wounds; yet no systematic review has been published. Seven studies, comprising 290 patients with 317 ulcers, met the inclusion criteria of this meta-analysis. Three types of CS were found: resection arthroplasty of the interphalangeal joint, toe-sparing bone excision (internal pedal amputation), and distal Symes amputation. The meta-analytical results were as follows: healing rate of 98.3%, healing time of 6.8 ± 3.9 weeks, recurrence rate of 2.3%, wound dehiscence/recurrent infection rate of 6.4%, skin necrosis rate of 2.8%, and revision surgery rate of 7.4%. Subgroup analyses showed no significant differences in outcomes between recalcitrant ulcers and infected ulcers nor between surgery types. Significance was found in relation to ulcer location; when compared with the hallux, DTU on the lesser toes demonstrated better outcomes. Compared with the reported overall results of standard of care associated with antibiotics or toe amputation of complicated DTUs in the literature, CS seems to be a better option for the treatment of recalcitrant or infected DTUs.

Levels of Evidence: Level III
Identity negotiation of older people in a mobility context: The case of train journeys
Authors: Welté Jean-Baptiste
Published: June 2019

This research sets out to understand the process of identity negotiation undertaken by older people. The limitations associated with the ageing process are increasing. Older people must also negotiate with regard to the social image of ageing. They encounter this identity negotiation in an emblematic manner in mobility contexts. The research, conducted on the basis of an ethnographic methodology of train journeys, identifies four identity-negotiation strategies for older people, based on stoic fatalism, opportunistic acceptance, empowering appropriation and similar adequacy. These four strategies may be adopted by a single person during the same journey. They are then discussed in relation to the concept of successful ageing.
Use of Amulet in behavioral change for geriatric obesity management
Authors: Batsis John A , Zagaria Alexandra B , Halter Ryan J , Boateng George G , Proctor Patrick , Bartels Stephen J , Kotz David
Published: June 2019

Background

Obesity in older adults is a significant public health concern. Weight-loss interventions are known to improve physical function but risk the development of sarcopenia. Mobile health devices have the potential to augment existing interventions and, if designed accordingly, could improve one’s physical activity and strength in routine physical activity interventions.

Methods and results

We present Amulet, a mobile health device that has the capability of engaging patients in physical activity. The purpose of this article is to discuss the development of applications that are tailored to older adults with obesity, with the intention to engage and improve their health.

Conclusions

Using a team-science approach, Amulet has the potential, as an open-source mobile health device, to tailor activity interventions to older adults.
A Reflective Analysis of the Selection and Production of Instructional Material for Curriculum Delivery at the Primary Level in Postcolonial Guyana
Authors: Lashley Lidon
Published: June 2019

This study gazed upon curriculum delivery in postcolonial Guyana. The key focus was on the impact of effective curricula instructional materials on curriculum delivery. A descriptive survey method was employed to gather data and a sequential transformative strategy which embraced a mixed method approach was utilized to analyze and interpret the data. One hundred mainstream teachers were asked to respond to five questions on a questionnaire. The sample represents 13% of the entire teacher population at the University of Guyana and 25% of the primary level teacher population of the Faculty of Education and Humanities. These teachers were randomly stopped and asked the questions as they made their way to class on the Turkeyen Campus. These teachers have all acquired initial qualified teachers’ status and at least 2 years of mainstream teaching experience. The teachers indicated that they are limited in their use of technology in mainstream schools, as many schools do not have Information and Communication Technology (ICT) support and physical space is limited. Teachers stated that they produced at least 90% of the curricula instructional material they use in mainstream classrooms. They indicated that they sometimes have to self-fund the raw materials needed to produce the instructional materials necessary for effective curriculum delivery in mainstream schools. Teachers are expected to do this without either allotted planning or preparation time. The production of instructional materials, done independently with little support from the senior leadership of the mainstream schools, is sometimes neither adequate nor cater to the diverse needs of all learners especially learners with Special Education Needs and Disabilities.
Radiographic Evaluation of Minimally Invasive Instrumentation and Fusion for Treating Unstable Spinal Column Injuries
Authors: Cavanaugh Daniel , Usmani M. Farooq , Weir Tristan B. , Camacho Jael , Yousaf Imran , Khatri Vishal , Bivona Louis , Shasti Mark , Koh Eugene Y. , Banagan Kelley E. , Ludwig Steven C. , Gelb Daniel E.
Published: June 2019

Study Design:

Retrospective cohort.

Objective:

Facet fusion in minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) may reduce morbidity and promote long-term construct stability. The study compares the maintenance of correction of thoracolumbar (TL) trauma patients who underwent MISS with facet fusion (FF) and without facet fusion (WOFF) and evaluates instrumentation loosening and failure.

Methods:

TL trauma patients who underwent MISS between 2006 and 2013 were identified and stratified into FF and WOFF groups. To evaluate progressive kyphosis and loss of correction, Cobb angles were measured at immediate postoperative, short-term, and long-term follow-up. Evidence of >2 mm of radiolucency on radiographs indicated screw loosening. If instrumentation was removed, postremoval kyphosis angle was obtained.

Results:

Of the 80 patients, 24 were in FF and 56 were in WOFF group. Between immediate postoperative and short-term follow-up, kyphosis angle changed by 4.0° (standard error [SE] 1.3°) in the FF and by 3.0° (SE 0.4°) in the WOFF group. The change between immediate postoperative and long-term follow-up kyphosis angles was 3.4° (S.E 1.1°) and 5.2° (S.E 1.6°) degrees in the FF and WOFF groups, respectively. Facet fusion had no impact on the change in kyphosis at short term ( P = .49) or long term ( P = .39). The screw loosening rate was 20.5% for the 80 patients with short-term follow-up and 68.8% for the 16 patients with long-term follow-up. There was no difference in screw loosening rate. Fifteen patients underwent instrumentation removal—all from the FF group.

Conclusion:

FF in MISS does not impact the correction achieved and maintenance of correction in patients with traumatic spine injuries.
Communication Apprehension Across the Career Span
Authors: Marcel Mary
Published: June 2019

Working adults engage in a variety of communication activities for their entire careers. Yet relatively, little has been established regarding whether or how average communication anxiety levels change over time, especially after college. The purpose of this study was to test communication anxiety levels across the career span. Age, levels of work experience, frequency in making presentations, and levels of communication apprehension as measured by the Personal Report of Communication Apprehension (PRCA) were compared for college-educated adults, aged 20-72. They were also compared with mean PRCA scores developed by James McCroskey based on testing undergraduates. Levels of overall Communication Apprehension and Public Speaking Apprehension scores fell with age, years of full-time work, and frequency of making presentations. Only those reporting never presenting in the prior year had scores which aligned with McCroskey’s college student mean scores; all others were lower at the 0.000 level of significance.
Sign Me Up: The Factors Predicting Students’ Enrollment in an Early-Commitment Scholarship Program
Authors: Goldhaber Dan , Long Mark C. , Person Ann E. , Rooklyn Jordan , Gratz Trevor
Published: June 2019

We investigate factors influencing student sign-ups for Washington State’s College Bound Scholarship program and consider whether there is scope for the program to change college enrollment expectations. We find that student characteristics associated with signing the scholarship pledge closely parallel characteristics of low-income students who attend 4-year colleges, suggesting that signing the pledge is driven largely by preexisting expectations of college going. We also find evidence that student sign-up rates are lower than have been previously reported, which is important given the perception among program administrators that nearly all eligible students sign up.
The Impact of Multiple Risk Factors for Venous Thromboembolism and Its Implications for Management
Authors: George Anil P. , Kent Paul
Published: June 2019

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a rare multifactorial disorder in childhood with an annual incidence of about 0.07 to 0.14 per 10 000 children. A 15-year-old female with a body mass index of 48 kg/m2 who endorsed oral contraceptive use presented with clinical findings consistent with deep venous thrombosis along with the presence of a pulmonary embolism. Further workup revealed that the patient was heterozygous for factor V Leiden and homozygous for prothrombin G20210A mutations. There are no current pediatric guidelines for the antithrombotic management of patients with multiple risk factors for VTE. Two such risk factors, obesity and the use of estrogen-containing hormone contraceptives, have been implicated in adult VTE cases but have not been clearly delineated in pediatric patients. The need for guidance regarding the VTE management of these patients has become more apparent given the increasing incidence of childhood obesity and the number of adolescents using oral contraceptives. Additionally, thrombophilia testing remains controversial though testing may be indicated in asymptomatic first-degree relatives and in families with antithrombin, protein C, or protein S deficiencies. Given the increased incidence of multiple risk factors for VTE, there is also a need to develop a comprehensive risk assessment tool for pediatric patients at high risk of VTE.
Patient-Centered Approach to Develop the Patient’s Preferences for Prostate Cancer Care (PreProCare) Tool
Authors: Jayadevappa Ravishankar , Chhatre Sumedha , Gallo Joseph J. , Malkowicz S. Bruce , Schwartz J. Sanford , Wittink Marsha N.
Published: June 2019

Objectives. To describe the development of our Patient Preferences for Prostate Cancer Care (PreProCare) tool to aid patient-centered treatment decision among localized prostate cancer patients. Methods. We incorporated patient and provider experiences to develop a patient preference elicitation tool using adaptive conjoint analysis. Our patient-centered approach used systematic literature review, semistructured patient interviews, and provider focus groups to determine the treatment attributes most important for decision making. The resulting computer-based PreProCare tool was pilot tested in a clinical setting. Results. A systematic review of 56 articles published between 1995 and 2015 yielded survival, cancer recurrence, side effects, and complications as attributes of treatment options. We conducted one-on-one interviews with 50 prostate cancer survivors and 5 focus groups of providers. Patients reported anxiety, depression, treatment specifics, and caregiver burden as important for decision making. Providers identified clinical characteristics as important attribute. Input from stakeholders’ advisory group, physicians, and researchers helped finalize 15 attributes for our PreProCare preference assessment tool. Conclusion. The PreProCare tool was developed using a patient-centered approach and may be a feasible and acceptable preference clarification intervention for localized prostate cancer patients. The PreProCare tool may translate into higher participant engagement and self-efficacy, consistent with patients’ personal values.
What difference does democratic local governance make? Guggenheim museum initiatives in Abu Dhabi and Helsinki
Authors: Ponzini Davide , Ruoppila Sampo , Jones Zachary M
Published: June 2019

Recent debates regarding urban policy mobilities have shed light on the transfer and adaptation of similar sets of measures and projects. However, limited attention has been given to the local decision-making processes and to how democratic or autocratic modes of governance affect the adaptation. This paper focuses on the transnational spreading of brand museums and cultural institutions as part of leisure-and-tourism-oriented urban regeneration strategies. The Guggenheim Foundation has been most active in this regard since the late 1990s with the Bilbao narrative de-contextualised and circulating internationally, luring new localities to establish the museum. The paper compares two fairly similar Guggenheim museum initiatives in situations differing radically in political and planning terms in Abu Dhabi, UAE and Helsinki, Finland – respectively, the capital of a sheikdom and the capital of a democratic country – asking what difference the mode of governance has made in the re-contextualisation of the projects. The comparison shows that the democratic governance generated a high degree of collective intelligence, involved multiple stakeholders and allowed critical evaluations beneficial in decreasing the risk-proneness, emphasising the site-specificity and bargaining for the city’s benefit. The authors call for a more nuanced understanding of the local governance within the re-contextualisation process of such initiatives and for further research regarding the transnational strategies of ‘auxiliary institutions’.
Differential expression of Plg-RKT and its effects on migration of proinflammatory monocyte and macrophage subsets
Authors: Thaler Barbara , Baik Nagyung , Hohensinner Philipp J. , Baumgartner Johanna , Panzenböck Adelheid , Stojkovic Stefan , Demyanets Svitlana , Huk Ihor , Rega-Kaun Gersina , Kaun Christoph , Prager Manfred , Fischer Michael B. , Huber Kurt , Speidl Walter S. , Parmer Robert J. , Miles Lindsey A. , Wojta Johann
Published: June 2019

Membrane-bound plasmin is used by immune cells to degrade extracellular matrices, which facilitates migration. The plasminogen receptor Plg-RKT is expressed by immune cells, including monocytes and macrophages. Among monocytes and macrophages, distinct subsets can be distinguished based on cell surface markers and pathophysiological function. We investigated expression of Plg-RKT by monocyte and macrophage subsets and whether potential differential expression might have functional consequences for cell migration. Proinflammatory CD14++CD16+ human monocytes and Ly6Chigh mouse monocytes expressed the highest levels of Plg-RKT and bound significantly more plasminogen compared with the other respective subsets. Proinflammatory human macrophages, generated by polarization with lipopolysaccharide and interferon-γ, showed significantly higher expression of Plg-RKT compared with alternatively activated macrophages, polarized with interleukin-4 and interleukin-13. Directional migration of proinflammatory monocytes was plasmin dependent and was abolished by anti–Plg-RKT monoclonal antibody, ε-amino-caproic acid, aprotinin, and the aminoterminal fragment of urokinase-type plasminogen activator. In an in vivo peritonitis model, significantly less Ly6Chigh monocyte recruitment was observed in Plg-RKT−/− compared with Plg-RKT+/+ mice. Immunohistochemical analysis of human carotid plaques and adipose tissue showed that proinflammatory macrophages also exhibited high levels of Plg-RKT in vivo. Our data demonstrate higher expression of Plg-RKT on proinflammatory monocyte and macrophage subsets that impacts their migratory capacity.
Shock-induced Stoneley waves in carbonate rock samples
Authors: Li Ning , Wang Kewen , Wu Hongliang , Feng Qingfu , Fan Huajun , Smeulders David
Published: June 2019

To assess the productivity of oil- and gas-bearing carbonate reservoirs, acoustic waves are used to extract information on the reservoir properties. We performed shock-induced broadband linear acoustic wave experiments on fractured carbonate samples with different fracture apertures. Samples were prepared from a full-diameter carbonate rock core in which the aperture of a single fracture could be varied by means of spacers. Microseismograms were constructed from multiple wave experiments. We measured the wave speeds of different wave modes in the annulus along the cylindrical core sample and the transmission coefficient of the Stoneley wave over the fracture. We found that the transmission coefficient of the annulus Stoneley wave can directly be related to the fracture aperture and the fracture length. Comparison with a straightforward quasi-1D theory yielded best-fit values for fracture aperture and length that were in agreement with the actual values, for the fracture aperture determined by the size of the spacers. The values of the fracture length were not accurately predicted probably due to the underestimation of the fracture compliance in the experiment. The inversion method can be optimized for carbonate reservoir conditions to extract fracture data from Stoneley wave transmission and reflection coefficients.
Prestack Q compensation with sparse tau-p operators
Authors: Aharchaou Mehdi , Neumann Erik
Published: June 2019

The application of [Formula: see text] compensation to prestack marine data needs the proper removal of the water-layer time from the total traveltime, a process known as “time referencing.” To obtain the water-layer time, current industry practices use some form of normal moveout equation that requires subsurface velocities. We have derived a more straightforward and accurate formula for time referencing that does not require subsurface velocities and works under the same assumptions. The formula is based on a local angle decomposition via the tau-[Formula: see text] transform. Further complicating the [Formula: see text] compensation task in the prestack domain is the proper treatment of spatially aliased energy and high-frequency noise. We found out how time-slowness sparsity, used as a constraint for [Formula: see text] compensation, gives excellent immunity to incoherent noise and spatial aliasing, and we evaluate its role in accelerating the convergence rate for our iterative inversion algorithm.
Viscoacoustic least-squares reverse time migration using a time-domain complex-valued wave equation
Authors: Yang Jidong , Zhu Hejun
Published: June 2019

With limited recording apertures, finite-frequency source functions, and irregular subsurface illuminations, traditional imaging methods have been insufficient to produce satisfactory reflectivity images with high resolution and amplitude fidelity. This is because most traditional imaging approaches are commonly formulated as the adjoint instead of the inverse operator with respect to the forward-modeling operator. In addition, intrinsic attenuation introduces amplitude loss and phase dispersion during wave propagation. Without considering these effects, migrated images might be kinematically and dynamically incorrect. We have developed a viscoacoustic least-squares reverse time migration (LSRTM) method based on a time-domain complex-valued wave equation. According to the Born approximation, we first linearized the viscoacoustic wave equation and derived a demigration operator. Then, using the complex-valued Lagrange multiplier method, we derived the adjoint viscoacoustic wave equation and corresponding sensitivity kernel. With the forward and adjoint operators, a linear inverse problem is formulated to estimate the subsurface reflectivity model. A total-variation regularization scheme is introduced to enhance the robustness of our viscoacoustic LSRTM, and a diagonal Hessian is used as the preconditioner to accelerate the convergence. Three synthetic examples are used to demonstrate that our approach enables us to compensate attenuation effects, improve imaging resolution, and enhance amplitude fidelity in comparison with the adjoint imaging method.
Hotspot origin for asymmetrical conjugate volcanic margins of the austral South Atlantic Ocean as imaged on deeply penetrating seismic reflection lines
Authors: Reuber Kyle , Mann Paul , Pindell Jim
Published: June 2019

We have interpreted 27,550 km of deep-penetrating, 2D-seismic reflection profiles across the South Atlantic conjugate margins of Uruguay/Southern Brazil and Namibia. These reflection profiles reveal in unprecedented detail the lateral and cross-sectional, asymmetrical distribution of voluminous, postrift volcanic material erupted during the Barremian-Aptian (129–125 Ma) period of early seafloor spreading in the southernmost South Atlantic. Using this seismic grid, we mapped the 10–200 km wide, continental margin-parallel limits of seaward-dipping reflector (SDR) complexes — that are coincident with interpretations from previous workers using seismic refraction data from the South American and West African conjugate margins. Subaerially emplaced and tabular SDRs have rotated downward 20° in the direction of the mid-Atlantic spreading ridge and are up to 22 km thick near the limit of continental crust. The SDR package is wedge shaped and thins abruptly basinward toward the limit of oceanic crust where it transitions to normal, 6–8 km thick oceanic crust. We have developed a model for the conjugate rifted margins that combine diverging tectonic plates and northwesterly plate motion relative to a fixed mantle position of the mantle plume. Our model explains an approximately 30% higher volume of SDRs/igneous crust on the trailing Namibian margin than on the leading Brazilian margin during the syn- and postrift phases. Our model for volcanic margin asymmetry in the South Atlantic does not require a simple shear mechanism to produce the asymmetrical volcanic material distribution observed from our data and from previously published seismic refraction studies. Determining the basinward extent of the extended continental basement is crucial for understanding basin evolution and for hydrocarbon exploration. Although these conjugate margins have evolved asymmetrically, their proximity during the early postrift stage suggests a near-equivalent, early basin evolution and similar hydrocarbon potential. Understanding the tectonic and magnetic processes that produce these observed asymmetries is critical for understanding volcanic passive margin evolution.
Control of Precambrian-to-Paleozoic orogenic trends on along-strike variations in Early Cretaceous continental rifts of the South Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Reuber Kyle , Mann Paul
Published: June 2019

The Early Cretaceous (135–130 Ma) continental rupture of Western Gondwana to form the South American and African plates closely paralleled the elongate trends of Precambrian and Paleozoic orogenic belts. These orogenic belts were produced as a result of the Neoproterozoic convergent and strike-slip assembly of Gondwana that redeformed during later, Paleozoic orogenic events. Continued continental rifting led to the formation of conjugate, South Atlantic volcanic passive margins whose widths vary from 55 to 180 km. Along-strike variations in crustal stretching, as measured from deep-penetration seismic reflection profiles, correlate with parallel and oblique orientations of rifts relative to the trend of the orogenic, basement fabric. Where orogenic fabric trends parallel to the north–south South Atlantic rift direction such as in the Dom Feliciano orogenic belt of Uruguay and Brazil and the Kaoko Uruguay/Brazil and Kaoko orogenic belt of Namibia, we observe narrow (55–90 km) rift zones with modest continental beta factors of 2.5–3.5 because smaller amounts of rifting were needed to stretch the weaker and parallel, orogenic, basement fabric. Where the basement fabric trends near-orthogonally to the north–south South Atlantic rift direction such as in the Salado suture of Southern Uruguay and the Damara Belt of Namibia, we observe wider (185–220 km) rift zones with higher beta factors of 4.3–5 because greater amounts of stretching were needed to rupture the orthogonal, orogenic, basement fabric. The rift-oblique Gariep Belt intersects the South Atlantic continental rupture at an intermediate angle (30°) and exhibits a predicted intermediate beta factor of 4.0. A compilation of published beta factors from 36 other rifted margins worldwide supports the same basement-trend-degree of stretching relationship that we have developed — with rift-parallel margins having lower beta factors in a range of 1.3–3.5 and rift-orthogonal or oblique margins having higher beta factors in a range of 4–8.
Correlation Between Differentiation of Adrenocortical Zones and Telomere Lengths Measured by Q-FISH
Authors: Nonaka Keisuke , Aida Junko , Takubo Kaiyo , Yamazaki Yuto , Takakuma Shoichiro , Kakizaki Mototsune , Matsuda Yoko , Ishikawa Naoshi , Ishiwata Toshiyuki , Chong Ja-Mun , Arai Tomio , Sasano Hironobu
Published: June 2019

Context

Adrenocortical zonation is associated with a markedly complex developmental process, and the pathogenesis and/or etiology of many disorders of adrenocortical zonal development have remained unknown. Cells from the three adrenocortical zones are morphologically and functionally differentiated, and the mature stage of cell development or senescence has been recently reported to be correlated with telomere length. However, the telomere length of each adrenocortical zonal cell has not yet been studied in human adrenal glands.

Objective

We aimed to study the telomere lengths of adrenocortical parenchymal cells from three different zones of the adrenal glands present during childhood, adolescence, and adulthood.

Methods

Adrenal glands of 30 autopsied subjects, aged between 0 and 68 years, were retrieved from pathology files. The normalized telomere to centromere ratio (NTCR), an index of telomere length, was determined in the parenchymal cells of the zona glomerulosa, zona fasciculata, and zona reticularis (ZR), using quantitative fluorescence in situ hybridization.

Results

NTCR of ZR cells was the longest, followed in decreasing order by that of zona glomerulosa and zona fasciculata cells in subjects aged 20 to 68 years, but no substantial differences in NTCR were detected among these three zones in the group <20 years of age. NTCR of ZR increased with age in subjects aged 20 to 68 years, whereas no important age-dependent changes in NTCR were detected in the group <20 years of age.

Conclusion

The telomere lengths for three zones in adrenal cortex were correlated with their differentiation in adulthood but not in childhood and adolescence.
Bone morphology is regulated modularly by global and regional genetic programs
Authors: Eyal Shai , Kult Shiri , Rubin Sarah , Krief Sharon , Felsenthal Neta , Pineault Kyriel M. , Leshkowitz Dena , Salame Tomer-Meir , Addadi Yoseph , Wellik Deneen M. , Zelzer Elazar
Published: June 2019

Bone protrusions provide stable anchoring sites for ligaments and tendons and define the unique morphology of each long bone. Despite their importance, the mechanism by which superstructures are patterned is unknown. Here, we identify components of the genetic program that control the patterning of Sox9+/Scx+ superstructure progenitors in mouse and show that this program includes both global and regional regulatory modules. Using light-sheet fluorescence microscopy combined with genetic lineage labeling, we mapped the broad contribution of the Sox9+/Scx+ progenitors to the formation of bone superstructures. Then, by combining literature-based evidence, comparative transcriptomic analysis and genetic mouse models, we identified Gli3 as a global regulator of superstructure patterning, whereas Pbx1, Pbx2, Hoxa11 and Hoxd11 act as proximal and distal regulators, respectively. Moreover, by demonstrating a dose-dependent pattern regulation in Gli3 and Pbx1 compound mutations, we show that the global and regional regulatory modules work in a coordinated manner. Collectively, our results provide strong evidence for genetic regulation of superstructure patterning, which further supports the notion that long bone development is a modular process.

This article has an associated ‘The people behind the papers’ interview.
AQUATIC EXERCISE FOR HEALTH: PROBING THE DEPTHS OF HIIT FOR CARDIOMETABOLIC TRAINING
Authors: Nagle Elizabeth F. , Sanders Mary E. , Becker Bruce E.
Published: June 2019

Apply It!
Fully covered self-expandable esophageal metallic stents in patients with inoperable malignant disease who survived for more than 6 months after stent placement
Authors: Bakheet Nader , Park Jung-Hoon , Hu Hong-Tao , Yoon Sung Hwan , Kim Kun Yung , Zhe Wang , Jeon Jae Yong , Song Ho-Young
Published: June 2019

Objectives:

To investigate the clinical outcomes of fully covered self-expanding metal stent (FCSEMS) placement in patients with malignant esophageal obstruction who survived longer than 6 months.

Methods:

From January 2002 to January 2018, 88 FCSEMS were placed in 64 patients (mean age 62.9 ± 11.6 years; 58 males) with inoperable malignant esophageal obstruction with or without esophago-respiratory fistula. Only patients who survived more than 6 months with FCSEMS in place were included. Data regarding technical and clinical success, complications, reinterventions, stent patency, and patient survival were obtained from a prospectively maintained hospital database.

Results:

The technical and clinical success rates were 100 % (64/64). During follow-up, the median dysphagia score significantly improved (3.09 ± 0.68 to 1.05 ± 0.60, p < 0.001). The complication rate was 48.8 %. Multivariate analysis revealed that only longer stenting duration was associated with complications [hazard ratio = 1.220, 95 % confidence interval (CI) (1.074–2.760), p = 0.039]. The median follow-up duration was 257 days (range, 181–969). The median stent patency duration was 289 days [95% CI (209.9–368.1)]. The median survival was 254 days [95% CI (219.7–288.3)].

Conclusions:

Our data suggest that esophageal FCSEMS placement is an effective option for patients with malignant dysphagia when survival longer than 6 months is expected. The rate of complications increases with time, and SEMS development is needed to keep up with the advancement in oncological treatment.

Advances in knowledge:

Fully covered esophageal self-expandable stent placement is effective in patients surviving more than 6 months, however, the rate of complications also increases.

SEMS development is needed to cope with the advancement in oncological treatment.
Rrp5 establishes a checkpoint for 60S assembly during 40S maturation
Authors: Khoshnevis Sohail , Liu Xin , Dattolo Maria D. , Karbstein Katrin
Published: June 2019

Even though the RNAs contained in the small (40S) and large (60S) ribosomal subunits are cotranscribed, their assembly proceeds largely separately, involving entirely distinct machineries. Nevertheless, separation of the two subunits, an event that is critical for assembly of the small subunit, is delayed until domain I of the large subunit is transcribed, indicating crosstalk between the two assembly pathways. Here we show that this crosstalk is mediated by the assembly factor Rrp5, one of only three proteins required for assembly of both ribosomal subunits. Quantitative RNA binding and cleavage data demonstrate that early on, Rrp5 blocks separation of the two subunits, and thus 40S maturation by inhibiting the access of Rcl1 to promote cleavage of the nascent rRNA. Upon transcription of domain I of 25S rRNA, the 60S assembly factors Noc1/Noc2 bind both this RNA and Rrp5 to change the Rrp5 RNA binding mode to enable pre-40S rRNA processing. Mutants in the HEAT-repeat domain of Noc1 are deficient in the separation of the subunits, which is rescued by overexpression of wild-type but not inactive Rcl1 in vivo. Thus, Rrp5 establishes a checkpoint for 60S assembly during 40S maturation to ensure balanced levels of the two subunits.
The Gut Microbiome in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Lessons Learned From Other Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Diseases
Authors: Knox Natalie C. , Forbes Jessica D. , Peterson Christy-Lynn , Van Domselaar Gary , Bernstein Charles N.
Published: June 2019

There is a growing appreciation for the role of the gut microbiome in human health and disease. Aided by advances in sequencing technologies and analytical methods, recent research has shown the healthy gut microbiome to possess considerable diversity and functional capacity. Dysbiosis of the gut microbiota is believed to be involved in the pathogenesis of not only diseases that primarily affect the gastrointestinal tract but also other less obvious diseases, including neurologic, rheumatologic, metabolic, hepatic, and other illnesses. Chronic immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs) represent a group of diseases that share many underlying etiological factors including genetics, aberrant immunological responses, and environmental factors. Gut dysbiosis has been reported to be common to IMIDs as a whole, and much effort is currently being directed toward elucidating microbiome-mediated disease mechanisms and their implications for causality. In this review, we discuss gut microbiome studies in several IMIDs and show how these studies can inform our understanding of the role of the gut microbiome in inflammatory bowel disease.
A Reference Architecture for Developing Resource-Limited Disease Surveillance Systems
Authors: Fatwanto Agung
Published: June 2019

In recent years, several countries have developed and implemented disease surveillance systems. These systems, eventhough having relatively similar functions, are adopting different approaches. Based on a preliminary study, an effective strategy for developing a disease surveillance system was proposed. This paper proposes a reference architecture for building a disease surveillance system based on the medical and technological perspective in the context of resource-limited environment.
Design of Decision Support System Selection of Beach Tourism Object in GunungKidul using Fuzzy AHP Method
Authors: Istianto Yudi , Sugiantoro Bambang
Published: June 2019

The tourism industry is currently one of the important assessments for a certain region. Gunungkidul has a lot of of beach tourism potentials until visitors are confused to choose the right beach. The purpose of this research is to analyze and apply Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process method in calculating the selection of beach tourism object in Gunungkidul with eight main criteria into a website.Multi Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) is a decision-making method to establish the best alternative of a number of alternatives based on several criteria that will be considered. One method of MCDM is the Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process method. Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process is a method of developing Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), which can describe unclear decisions and minimize uncertainty on AHP. Fuzzy approach, especially triangular fuzzy number to AHP scale, is expected to minimize uncertainty so that expected result was obtained more accurately.The decision support system for choosing a beach resort in Gunungkidul has been successfully built by applying the Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process method. The calculation of Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process method with the same computer result with manual calculation. The testing system was done using Black Box method by testing Alpha and Betha. From the results of system testing, it was known that the average result of the overall function score was 104 which was on rating scale 97.51 - 120 (Very Good).
Effect of napier grass supplemented with Gliricidia sepium, Sapindus rarak or Hibiscus rosa-sinensis on in vitro rumen fermentation profiles and methanogenesis
Authors: Yuliana P. , Laconi E. B. , Jayanegara A. , Achmadi S. S. , Samsudin A. A.
Published: June 2019

This study examined the supplementation effects of gliricidia leaves(GL, Gliricidia sepium), lerak fruit(LF, Sapindus rarak), or hibiscusleaves(HL, Hibiscusrosa-sinensis) on in vitro rumen fermentation and methanogenesis and made a comparisonwith the Napier grass (NG, Pennisetum purpureum) grass. In vitro rumen fermentation was designed according to a randomized complete block design with four replications and seven treatments: NG, GL, LF, HL, NG 70% + GL 30%, NG 70% + LF 30%and NG 70% + HL 30%. The generated data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Duncan’s multiple range test and compared among treatment means.Addition of a plant containing saponin such as LF or HL to NG did not alter gas production after 24 and 48 h of incubation period in comparison to NG alone.The HLalone or blended with NGproduced the highest IVOMDduring the fermentation processas compared to other treatments (P<0.05). Adding LF supplement either singly or in combination significantly (P<0.05) reduced methane production in terms of %TVFA as compared to NG. Supplementation of LF plants has shifted VFA proportion towards more propionate and less acetate. The microbial population of LF, whether single or in combination had a tendency to reduce the rumen protozoa population but had no effect on methanogen population. It can be concluded that utilization of saponin-rich materials is particularly beneficial for reducing ruminal methane emission.
Measuring the sosial economic benefits of Jabres cattle keeping in Bantarkawung Sub-district, Brebes, Central Java, Indonesia
Authors: Haq M. S. , Budisatria I. G. S. , Panjono P. , Maharani D.
Published: June 2019

This study aimed to explore the socio-economic benefits of Jabres cattle as potential local livestock in two agro ecological zones, lowlands and middle zone in Bantarkawung Sub-District, Brebes, Central Java. The data were collected by Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) method, which is an approach to families or individuals to analyze the reality of their living conditions. This study involved 60 farmers which selected by purposive sampling based on three considerations. The analytical model used to test differences is the analysis of independent T-test. The result showed that the farmers in the middle zone are younger and most of their cattle keeping motivation are for livelihood. Meanwhile, the farmers in the low lands are older and most of their cattle keeping motivation is for saving only (2.90±0.31). This condition caused the socio-economic benefit difference between those locations where the value of net production (185±27 kg/y), added value (IDR 4.900.000±1.204.000), and total benefits (IDR 9.289.000±1.542.000) were higher in the medium land than in the lowlands. Based on these reasons, it can be concluded that middle zone farmers have more possibility to sustain their farm than those of lowlands farmers.
PERANCANGAN SISTEM PENGATURAN SUHU CAIRAN DENGAN METODE KONTROL FUZZY PADA DISPENSER KOPI INSTAN OTOMATIS
Authors: Yusuf Yusuf , Triwiyatno Aris , Setiyono Budi
Published: June 2019

Industri kopi yang semakin berkembang, maka semakin banyak juga teknologi yang dipakai didalamnya. Sudah banyak digunakan berbagai mesin kopi dari yang manual sampai full automatic. Pada mesin kopi  automatic yang biasa dijumpai di minimarket masih menggunakan sistem kontrol konvensional sehingga masih memakan banyak waktu dalam prosesnya. Oleh karena itu dibutuhkan suatu sistem pada mesin kopi otomatis untuk mendapatkan hasil yang lebih optimal. Pada penelitian ini merancang sebuah sistem kontrol suhu pada dispenser kopi instan otomatis menggunakan kontrol fuzzy yang dapat menghasilkan respon sistem untuk memenuhi kriteria performansi yang diinginkan. Sistem ini menggunakan dua buah heater masing-masing untuk kopi dan creamer. Proses pengontrolan heater menggunakan modul dimmer yang didalamnya terdapat rangkaian pengendali tegangan AC yang berfungsi untuk mengendalikan tegangan pada masing-masing pemanas. Alat dispenser kopi instan otomatis juga dapat memproses otomasi level menggunakan ball valve. Pengujian sistem pemanas menggunakan kontrol fuzzy yang diberi setpoint berbeda. Setelah dilakukan pengujian, respon sistem yang menghasilkan nilai waktu stabil terkecil adalah sistem yang menggunakan kontrol fuzzy dengan suhu 80oC. Sistem ini dapat memanaskan kopi dan creamer pada suhu awal 30oC dan suhu akhir 80oC . Waktu stabil pada respon sistem ini adalah 514,3 detik . Error pada respon sistem ini adalah 2,2oC suhu akhir.
PENGARUH SINAR ULTRAVIOLET DAN KOMPOSISI FLY ASH PADA BAHAN ISOLASI RESIN EPOKSI SILANE TERHADAP NILAI ARUS BOCOR DENGAN KONTAMINAN NH4Cl DAN AIR HUJAN
Authors: Hidayat Adhitya Fauzan , Hermawan Hermawan , Syakur Abdul
Published: June 2019

Riset terhadap bahan isolator polimer yang lebih ringan dan dapat ditambahkan pengisi untuk memperbaiki kekuatan isolator masih menjadi sebuah riset, namun kondisi lingkungan akan mempengaruhi kinerja pada isolator polimer di luar ruangan. Pada penelitian ini dilakukan pengukuran arus bocor kondisi basah terhadap permukaan bahan isolator dengan metode pengukuran Inclaned-Planed Tracking (IEC 587:1984) dengan kontaminan NH4Cl dan air hujan. Sampel pengukuran menggunakan bahan isolasi resin epoksi yang terbuat dari campuran DGEBA dan MPDA dengan campuran bahan pengisi silicone rubber dan fly ash. Penuaan dipercepat dilakukan dalam kotak pengukuran yang terdapat paparan radiasi ultraviolet. Parameter yang dianalisa adalah sudut kontak, arus bocor lucutan pertama dan arus puncak. Hasil pengukuran menunjukkan semakin lama radiasi ultraviolet menyebabkan penurunan hidrofobik permukaan dan meningkatnya nilai arus bocor. Penggunaan polutan dengan nilai konduktivitas tinggi menyebabkan semakin tingginya arus bocor lucutan pertama dan arus puncak pada permukaan isolator. Didapatkan penggunaan komposisi pengisi terbaik terdapat pada sampel uji RTV23 dibandingkan RTV22 dan RTV24 dengan daya tahan sudut hidrofobik paling stabil sebesar 48.56% dan rata-rata kenaikan nilai arus bocor lucutan awal sebesar 31.16% dan arus puncak 10.76% terhadap penuaan radiasi ultraviolet.
APLIKASI MEDIA PEMASARAN PROPERTI DENGAN MENGGUNAKAN TEKNOLOGI AUGMENTED REALITY PADA PERANGKAT ANDROID
Authors: Faizin Ahmad Arif , Somantri Maman , Christyono Yuli
Published: June 2019

Bisnis properti mengalami perkembangan yang pesat setiap tahun, namun media promosi yang digunakan perusahaan masih menggunakan cara yang biasa, seperti menggunakan brosur yang hanya menampilkan gambar 2D saja. Dengan banyaknya kompetitor, konsumen menginginkan sesuatu yang unik dan berbeda untuk mengetahui informasi properti lebih detail dan lebih nyata. Augmented Reality merupakan teknologi yang tepat untuk memenuhi kebutuhan konsumen tersebut. Augmented Reality adalah teknologi yang menggabungkan dunia virtual dalam dunia nyata secara langsung. Oleh karena itu, dirancang sebuah aplikasi yang berfungsi sebagai profil perusahaan sekaligus menampilkan properti 3D dengan menggunakan teknologi Augmented Reality pada perangkat Android. Aplikasi ini dibuat menggunakan Unity3D untuk membuat Augmented Reality dan Android Studio untuk membuat company profile. Perancangan  aplikasi menggunakan Unified Modelling Language berupa diagram use case, diagram aktivitas, dan diagram kelas. Hasil pengujian menunjukkan setiap fitur dapat berjalan dengan baik. Objek 3D mulai tampil dengan jarak pendeteksian awal dari 20 cm sampai sekitar 105.9 cm. Sedangkan saat pelacakan, objek 3D masih dapat tampil dari jarak sekitar 6.8 cm sampai sekitar 242.2 cm. Berdasarkan sudutnya, objek 3D mulai tampil dengan sudut pendeteksian awal maksimal sekitar 56.2 derajat. Sedangkan saat pelacakan, objek 3D masih dapat tampil sampai sekitar 87.8 derajat.
OPTIMISASI PENEMPATAN KAPASITOR BANK UNTUK MEREDUKSI RUGI DAYA MENGGUNAKAN FLOWER POLLINATION ALGORITHM PADA JARINGAN AUXILIARY LOAD PT.PJB PEMBANGKITAN INDRAMAYU 3X330 MW
Authors: Wiratsongko Tito , Sukmadi Tejo , Handoko Susatyo
Published: June 2019

Pada pembangkit listrik, besarnya energi yang diperlukan untuk auxiliary load sendiri berkisar antara 1-10% dari produksi energi yang dihasilkan. Jenis beban pada jaringan auxiliary load di pembangkit listrik kebanyakan adalah berupa motor listrik, seperti: pompa uap  pengendali turbin, dan pompa sirkulasi air. Ada kecendrungan faktor daya rendah pada busbar beban di jaringan auxiliary load ( < 0,85), diakibatkan banyak nya konsumsi daya reaktif sehingga mengakibatkan tingginya rugi-rugi daya pada saluran. Pada penelitian ini, dibahas mengenai optimisasi penempatan kapasitor bank untuk mereduksi faktor daya menggunakan FPA. Metode optimasi ini terinspirasi dari proses penyerbukan bunga oleh serangga yang ada di alam semesta. Metode ini akan membangkitakan sekawanan serangga yang tiap-tiap individunya membawa nilai konfigurasi kapasitor yang berbeda satu sama lain. Nilai-nilai inilah yang nantinya akan diselesaikan oleh algoritma metode ini untuk mendapatkan nilai yang paling optimal. Hasil penelitian membuktikan bahwa dengan  menempatkan 53 kapasitor dengan total rating 1060  kVAR pada bus 24 , 26, 28, 30, 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, 44, 50, 52, 54, 56, 60, 62, dan 66 mampu menurunkan rugi daya aktif sebesar 22,6 kW dan rugi daya reaktif menurun sebesar 28,1 kVAR sehingga didapatkan penghematan sebesar $12.952,1681dalam kurun waktu 5 tahun.