bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peri‐operative delineation of non‐melanoma skin cancer margins in vivo with handheld reflectance confocal microscopy and video‐mosaicking
Authors: Flores E. , Yélamos O. , Cordova M. , Kose K. , Phillips W. , Lee E.H. , Rossi A. , Nehal K. , Rajadhyaksha M.
Published: February 2019

Background

The surgical removal of non‐melanoma skin cancers (NMSCs) is guided by the pathologic examination of margins. However, the preparation of histopathology is time consuming, labour‐intensive and requires separate laboratory infrastructure. Furthermore, when histopathology indicates positive margins, patients must return for re‐excisions. Reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) with a new video‐mosaicking approach can noninvasively delineate margins directly on patients and potentially guide surgery in real‐time, augmenting the traditional approaches of histopathology.

Objective

To assess a new peri‐operative RCM video‐mosaicking approach for comprehensive delineation of NMSC margins on patients in vivo.

Methods

Thirty‐five patients undergoing Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) in the Mohs surgery unit at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY were included in the study. RCM imaging was performed before and after the first staged excision by acquiring videos along the surgical margins (epidermal, peripheral and deep dermal) of each wound, which were subsequently processed into video‐mosaics. Two RCM evaluators read and assessed video‐mosaics, and subsequently compared to the corresponding Mohs frozen histopathology.

Results

Reflectance confocal microscopy videos and video‐mosaics displayed acceptable imaging quality (resolution and contrast), pre‐operatively in 32/35 (91%) NMSC lesions and intra‐operatively in 29/35 lesions (83%). Pre‐operative delineation of margins correlated with the histopathology in 32/35 (91%) lesions. Intra‐operative delineation correlated in 10/14 (71%) lesions for the presence of residual tumour and in 18/21 (86%) lesions for absence. Sensitivity/specificity were 71%/86% and 86%/81% for two RCM video‐mosaic evaluators, and overall agreement was 80% and 83% with histopathology, with moderate inter‐evaluator agreement (k = 0.59, P ≤ 0.0002).

Conclusions

Peri‐operative RCM video‐mosaicking of NMSC margins directly on patients may potentially guide surgery in real‐time, serve as an adjunct to histopathology, reduce time spent in clinic and reduce the need for re‐excisions. Further testing in larger studies is needed.
Assessment of the efficacy and safety of platelet poor plasma gel as autologous dermal filler for facial rejuvenation
Authors: Doghaim Noha Nabil , El‐Tatawy Rania Ahmed , Neinaa Yomna Mazid El‐Hamd
Published: February 2019

Background

The popularity of dermal fillers has grown rapidly in the last few years for facial rejuvenation. Plasma gel is an autologous gelatinous material that is prepared from the patient's own platelet poor plasma.

Objective

To evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of plasma gel injection as a dermal filler for facial rejuvenation.

Patients and Methods

The current study was carried out on 52 females presented with facial aging divided into two groups: Group A included 34 females with facial wrinkles, and Group B included 18 females with tear trough deformity. After taking written informed consent, they received two sessions of plasma gel injections at 2‐week interval and followed up monthly for 3 months. They were assessed clinically before treatment sessions and at the end of follow‐up period.

Results

Both studied groups showed immediate significant clinical improvement after plasma gel injection that maintained till the end of follow‐up period. This finding was confirmed by significant reduction in the mean values of Wrinkle Severity Rating Scale (WSRS) in Group A and Tear Trough Rating Scale (TTRS) in group B, and significant improvement of skin homogeneity and texture in both groups. In general, the reported side effects were minimal and transient.

Conclusion

Autologous platelet poor plasma gel injection seems to be a cost‐effective, safe, well‐tolerated, and minimally invasive technique producing significant aesthetic correction of facial wrinkles and tear trough deformity.
Shifting Imperial Strategies in Contemporary Latin America: The U.S. Empire and Venezuela under Hugo Chávez
Authors: Gill Timothy M.
Published: February 2019

Some scholars have shown how the U.S. has deployed several traditional, imperial strategies to maintain global power, including military interventions, support for proxy governments, economic coercion, and the exercise of hegemony. In many countries, though, these strategies cannot effectively work. Some countries have elected leaders that defy U.S. influence, and, in middle‐income countries, the U.S. cannot use economic coercion. The U.S. also cannot militarily invade all countries that possess anti‐American governments. How, then, does the U.S. aim to confront and control anti‐American governments in the contemporary world? I examine U.S. foreign policy towards Venezuela under Hugo Chávez, who recurrently challenged U.S. global power during his time in office. Through interviews with U.S. state elites, who developed policy towards Venezuela, and through analysis of U.S. diplomatic cables, I show how the U.S. has moved away from traditional, imperial modalities and towards new imperial techniques aimed at frustrating political processes within particular countries, as well as containing their global influence. These techniques include pressuring the federal judiciary, utilizing state agencies to fund and support opposition political parties and NGOs, seeking to terminate particular pieces of legislation, and eliminating eligibility for global leadership positions. These efforts do not immediately aim to displace existing governments, but, in the least, they aim to frustrate the domestic efforts of particular governments, and ultimately cultivate conditions favorable for the political opposition to eventually attain political power.
Religious Variability in the Relationship Between Masculinity and Father Involvement
Authors: Shafer Kevin , Petts Richard J. , Renick Andrew J.
Published: February 2019

While traditional masculinity and fathering behaviors are seemingly associated, few studies have considered the conditions under which masculine norms may influence fathers’ behavior. Religiosity is an important factor to consider, given its association with both the endorsement of traditional gender attitudes and father involvement. This paper addresses the independent effects of traditional masculine norms and religiosity on fathering behaviors and considers whether religiosity moderates the relationship between masculinity and men's parenting behaviors. Using a national sample of fathers with children aged 2–17 in the United States, the results suggest that masculinity is negatively associated with father involvement, while religiosity is positively associated with father involvement. Yet, both highly masculine and highly religious fathers are more likely to engage in harsh discipline. Moreover, results suggest that religiosity attenuates the negative relationship between masculinity and active father involvement, while exacerbating the positive relationship between masculinity and harsh punishment.
To what extent can maternal inherited immunity acquired from a crustacean‐enhanced diet improve the performance and vitality of the offspring and enhance profitability of European Sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax)?
Authors: Abdel‐Rahim Mohamed M. , Mansour Abdallah T. , Mona Mohamed H. , El‐Gamal Mona M. , El Atafy Mohamed M.
Published: February 2019

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of maternal inherited immunity acquired from crustacean‐enhanced diets on the vitality and profitability of sea bass offspring. Newly hatched larvae produced from three groups of broodstock were evaluated. The broodstock were fed (a) a basal diet (BD), (b) a Palaemon‐supplemented diet (PSD), and (c) an Artemia‐supplemented diet (ASD) for 42 days. A total of 400,000 larvae at 3 days posthatch (DPH) produced from each treatment were stocked in larval rearing tanks at 40 larvae/L for 42 days. Survival (%) was improved by 37 and 9.96% in the groups fed ASD and PSD compared with the control group. The growth, swim bladder (%), and condition factor all significantly (p ≤ 0.05) improved in the postlarvae produced from broodstock enhanced with crustacean diets. Compared with the BD group, the serum lysozyme activities of the fish groups fed ASD and PSD increased by 45.6 and 11.7%, respectively. Sea bass fry (90DPH) produced from broodstock fed ASD showed the best tolerance to salinity/temperature stress tests. Furthermore, the profitability improved in ASD and PSD compared with the BD group. In conclusion, sea bass broodstock enhanced with Artemia biomass produced offspring of superior quality with less cost and greater profit margins.
Care as an Alternative to Euthanasia? Reconceptualizing Veterinary Palliative and End‐of‐life Care
Authors: Hurn Samantha , Badman‐King Alexander
Published: February 2019

Palliative care is routinely offered to humans in the United Kingdom, while euthanasia remains illegal. The converse is true for nonhuman animals (henceforth animals). Indeed, euthanasia is widely accepted as the appropriate course of action for “suffering” animals, and for those whose behaviors or suspected ill health are thought to pose a threat to others. This article details examples of nonhuman death at a multi‐faith ashram whose members vehemently oppose all forms of killing on religious grounds. Through exploring their efforts in palliative care for animals, and their emphasis on natural death as a means of respecting the sanctity of life, the practical, emotional, and theoretical viability of caring for, instead of killing, other animals at the ends of their lives is considered. In the process, normative distinctions between different categories of animals, (including humans), and different approaches to end of life care (palliative care, euthanasia, natural death) are called into question. Indeed, paying mindful attention to the diverse ways in which individual animals are cared for as they die reveals the potential violence inherent in both palliative care leading to natural death, and euthanasia, blurring perceptions of good and bad death in both veterinary and human medicine.
Exploring infant signing to enhance responsive parenting: Findings from the INSIGHT study
Authors: Paul Ian M. , Hohman Emily E. , Birch Leann L. , Shelly Amy , Vallotton Claire D. , Savage Jennifer S.
Published: February 2019

Responsive parenting is a promising framework for obesity prevention, yet attempts to date have largely relied on parents accurately interpreting their child's cues. Infant signing or “baby sign language” could enhance these interventions by improving bidirectional parent–child communication during the preverbal and emerging language years. In a clinical trial testing, a responsive parenting intervention designed for obesity prevention, we pilot tested a brief intervention at age 40 weeks with a subset of participating dyads that taught the signing gesture of “all done” to improve parental recognition of satiety. In addition, we surveyed all participating mothers at child age 18 months on the use of infant signing gestures in the prior year. Two hundred twenty‐eight mothers completed the survey including 72 responsive parenting group mothers that received the signing instructions. A majority of mothers, 63.6%, reported teaching their infant signs in the prior year, and 61.4% of infants were using signs to communicate at 18 months (median signs = 2). The signs for “more” and “all done” were used by over half of study participants and were the most common signs used. Other signs related to eating or drinking were commonly used. Signing intervention group infants were more likely to use the sign for “all done” than controls (63.9% vs. 45.5%; P = 0.01), but there was no difference between groups with regard to the use of the sign for “more” (56.9% vs. 51.3%; P = 0.43). Signing is commonly used by parents of young children and holds potential to improve parental responsiveness and obesity prevention efforts.
Optical fluorescence imaging in oral cancer and potentially malignant disorders: A systematic review
Authors: Tiwari Lalima , Kujan Omar , Farah Camile S.
Published: February 2019

Objectives

This study aimed to systematically review the efficacy of direct optical fluorescence imaging as an adjunct to comprehensive oral examination in the clinical evaluation, risk assessment and surgical management of oral cancer and potentially malignant disorders.

Methods

Studies adopting autofluorescence devices, evaluating the efficacy of comprehensive oral examination and optical fluorescence imaging in detection, visualisation or management of oral squamous cell carcinoma or oral potentially malignant disorders, as well as discriminating oral epithelial dysplasia from other mucosal lesions, were included in the literature search across bibliographic databases until October 2018.

Results

Twenty‐seven studies were found to be eligible for inclusion in qualitative analysis. Of these, only six studies demonstrated a low risk of bias across all domains of the methodological assessment tool (QUADAS‐2). Optical fluorescence imaging demonstrated positive results, with higher sensitivity scores, increased lesion detection and visualisation than comprehensive oral examination alone in the clinical evaluation of oral squamous cell carcinoma and oral potentially malignant disorders.

Conclusions

This review provides promising evidence for the utilisation of optical fluorescence imaging as an adjunct to comprehensive oral examination in varying clinical settings. It is important that devices utilising optical fluorescence imaging are viewed strictly as clinical adjuncts and not specifically as diagnostic devices.
Environmentally friendly methods for controlling pine pitch canker
Authors: Martín‐García J. , Zas R. , Solla A. , Woodward S. , Hantula J. , Vainio E. J. , Mullett M. , Morales‐Rodríguez C. , Vannini A. , Martínez‐Álvarez P. , Pinto G. , Alves A. , Amaral J. , Wingfield M. J. , Fourie G. , Steenkamp E. T. , Ahumada R. , Šerá B. , Sanz‐Ros A. V. , Raposo R. , Elvira‐Recuenco M. , Iturritxa E. , Gordon T. R. , Diez J. J.
Published: February 2019

Fusarium circinatumis a highly virulent invasive pathogen that causes the disease commonly known as pine pitch canker (PPC). On mature trees, the most common symptoms ofPPCinclude resin bleeding, resinous cankers, wilting of needles and dieback. In nurseries the main symptoms are yellowish needles, and wilting of foliage and shoots.PPCis considered one of the most important diseases of conifers globally and at least 60 species ofPinusalong withPseudotsuga menziesiiare known to be susceptible. Quarantine regulations are crucial to minimize the risk of new introductions into disease‐free countries. However, if these measures fail, implementation of environmentally friendly control methods is currently encouraged in an integrated management approach that minimizes the use of chemicals in forests. This review therefore summarizes current knowledge of biological control using endophytic fungi, bacteria and viruses, and other environmentally friendly methods to controlPPC, including thermotherapy, natural products with fungicidal effects, promoters of innate host resistance mechanisms and breeding for resistance. Key research gaps to be addressed for improvement of effective management of this disease are discussed.
The argument from agreement: How universal values undermine moral realism
Authors: Sauer Hanno
Published: February 2019

The most popular argument against moral realism is the argument from disagreement: if there are mind‐independent moral facts, then we would not expect to find as much moral disagreement as we in fact do; therefore, moral realism is false. In this paper, I develop the flipside of this argument. According to this argument from agreement, we would expect to find lots of moral disagreement if there were mind‐independent moral facts. But we do not, in fact, find much moral disagreement; therefore, moral realism is false. I defend the argument, explain the empirical evidence that supports it, and show what makes this challenge novel and powerful.
Effects of dietary L‐arginine supplementation to early pregnant mares on conceptus diameter—Preliminary findings
Authors: Aurich Jörg , Köhne Martin , Wulf Manuela , Nagel Christina , Beythien Elisabeth , Gautier Camille , Zentek Jürgen , Aurich Christine
Published: February 2019

Contents

The importance of the amino acid L‐arginine (ARG) for conceptus growth and litter size has been demonstrated in various species. L‐arginine is part of embryo‐derived polyamines, a substrate for nitric oxide synthase and stimulates protein synthesis by the embryo. In the present study, we have investigated whether dietary L‐arginine supplementation stimulates early conceptus growth in mares. Warmblood mares with singleton pregnancies received either an arginine‐supplemented diet (approximately 0.0125% of body weight, n = 12) or a control diet (n = 11) from days 15 to 45 after ovulation. Diameter of the embryonic vesicle (days 14, 17, 20 of pregnancy) and size of the embryo respective foetus (length and maximal diameter, days 25–45 of pregnancy at 5‐day intervals) were determined by transrectal ultrasound. At foaling, weight and size of the foal and the placenta were determined. Blood for determination of equine chorionic gonadotrophin (eCG) and progestin concentrations was collected repeatedly. Neither eCG nor progestin concentration in plasma of mares differed between groups at any time. No effects of arginine treatment on diameter of the embryonic vesicle between days 14 and 20 of pregnancy were detected. Diameter of the embryo/foetus on days 40 to 45 of pregnancy strongly tended to be enhanced by arginine supplementation (p = 0.06). Weight and size of neither the foal nor placenta at birth differed between groups. In conclusion, L‐arginine supplementation was without negative effects on early equine embryos and may support embryonic growth at the beginning of placentation.
Resynchronization of ovulation with new and reused intravaginal progesterone‐releasing devices without previous pregnancy diagnosis in Bos taurus indicus cows subjected to timed‐artificial insemination
Authors: de Oliveira Danilo Amadori Martins , Kozicki Luiz Ernandes , Gaievski Francisco Romano , Pedrosa Victor Breno , Weiss Romildo Romualdo , Segui Márcio Saporski , Bergstein‐Galan Tácia Gomes
Published: February 2019

Contents

The study aimed to evaluate pregnancy per artificial insemination (P/AI) of cows subjected to synchronization and resynchronization in ovulation protocols using intravaginal progesterone‐releasing insert (P4) before pregnancy diagnosis (PD) and the relationship of PR with the diameter of preovulatory follicles (ØPOF) before TAI. Cows (n = 378) were distributed into two groups: a resynchronization group with new devices (GRN; n = 185) and resynchronization group with used devices (GRU; n = 193). On Day 0, both groups received a new P4 and estradiol benzoate (EB). On D8, P4 removal + D‐cloprostenol + eCG + estradiol cypionate (EC) was done. On d10, TAI was conducted. On d32, cows were resynchronized and divided into two groups, GRN (n = 185) and GRU (n = 193). The GRN group received a new P4 + EB, and the GRU group received a used P4 + EB. On d40, the P4 was removed + PD. The non‐pregnant cows received D‐cloprostenol + eCG + EC. US was done again on d42 to determine ØPOF before the second TAI. The P/AI of the GRN and GRU groups after synchronization were 56.2% and 57.0% (p = 0.87), respectively, and those after resynchronization were 58.0% and 37.3% (p < 0.008), respectively. The P/AI of the GRN and GRU groups observed after TAI (synchronization + resynchronization) were 81.6% and 73.1%, respectively (p = 0.047). No difference (p = 0.067) in ØPOF between the pregnant and non‐pregnant cows in the GRN was found, whereas the GRU group showed a significant difference (p = 0.003). Resynchronization protocols optimized the P/AI in both groups. New intravaginal devices resulted in greater P/AI and P/AI accumulation in resynchronization as compared with the GRU; the ØPOF was related with P/AI.
Evaluating the contact rate between companion dogs during dog walking and the practices towards potential cases of rabies among dog owners in Japan
Authors: Kwan Nigel C. L. , Inoue Mai , Yamada Akio , Sugiura Katsuaki
Published: February 2019

This study aimed to examine the habits of dog walking in Japan using an internet survey of insured dog owners. About 96.4% of the respondents (n = 1,151) reported that they would take their dogs for a walk and they most frequently walk their dogs once or twice a day (75.9%) for 30 min to 1 hr (83.1%). The probability of a companion dog having contact with other dogs during dog walking was estimated to be 0.83 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.81–0.85), and the associated daily contact rate was estimated using log‐normal distribution with a mean of 2.73 (95% CI: 2.42–3.11) and a standard deviation (SD) of 6.39 (95% CI: 5.18–7.84). Multiple linear regression revealed that the contact rate is mainly influenced by the social behaviour of the owner and to a lesser degree by his/her demographic characteristics including the area of residence, the breed size of dog and the age of the owner. In addition, ten Likert items measured on a 5‐point scale were designed to assess the practices towards potential cases of rabies among dog owners. The respondents (n = 972) achieved a mean score of 2.99 (out of a full score of 4) with a SD of 0.90 in responding to situations related to dog bite incidents and injury from stray cat scratches during dog walking. They achieved a higher score in responding to situations related to sighting a stray or wild animal during dog walking and situations related to non‐specific clinical signs of rabies and bite injuries from stray dogs or wild animals during dog walking with a mean of 3.70 (SD = 0.58) and 3.84 (SD = 0.34), respectively. The level of best practice was also proved to be significantly associated with the demographic characteristics of the dog owner.
West African kenaf (Hibiscus Cannabinus L.) natural fiber composite for application in automotive industry
Authors: Abdullahi Tijjani , Harun Zawati , Othman Mohd Hafiz Dzarfan , Aminu Nasiru , Gabriel Oguntunde , Aminu Tijjani , Ibrahim Siti Aida , Kamarudin Noor Hasliza
Published: February 2019

The study of the kenaf core fiber – polymer composites was done by preparing a kenaf/polymer composite using polypropylene (PP) polymer matrix and Scona TPPP 9012 GA as coupling agent with Nigerian grown Kenaf natural fiber through hot pressing. The objective was to characterize the stability and bond strength of the polymer/fiber interface through morphological analysis by using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) as well as the characterization of thermal and mechanical properties of the composite. The result obtained shows an increment in tensile strength as a percentage of kenaf fiber increased to 30%, this trend continuous surprisingly, even at 50% kenaf fiber loading, which goes against the result obtained in previous literature. Thus, signifying the positive influence of Scona TPPP 9012 GA coupling agent. However, further analysis indicated that 40% kenaf fiber loading has a better chance to be considered suitable for use in the automotive structure.
The influence of layer thickness on the electrical property of metal-CNT (metal: Cu) composite
Authors: Mustofa Salim , Purwanto Patricius , Adi Wisnu Ari
Published: February 2019

The composite of Metal – MWCNT (Metal: Cu) were made by using solid-state reaction method for 1 hour at R.T. after mixing the Multiwalled - CNT (MWCNT) and Copper (Cu) powder with 3% weight of Cu. The result of electrical property measured using LCR meter indicated that the conductivities value of MWCNT/Cu was increased in proportion to the increase of layer thickness of composite and the increasing of frequency measurement. On the other hand, the capacitance value of the MWCNT/Cu composite sample was decreased by the increasing of frequency measurement. From the analysis of cole-cole plot, the MWCNT/Cu composite indicated the peak maximum at certainl frequency, which shows the possibility of achievable polarizability. We have measured the Raman spectra of MWCNT/Cu composites to evaluate the state of dispersion and the Cu-filler interactions reflected, by shifts changes of the peaks. All the Raman bands of the carbon nanotubes are seen at wave number around of 1326 cm-1 (D band), and a wave number around of 1617 cm-1 (second harmonic G band).
Análisis del paisaje en el Parque Arqueológico “Las Piedras del Tunjo”, mediante la caracterización vegetal arbórea
Authors: Díaz Santamaría William Ricardo
Published: February 2019

El Parque Arqueológico “Las Piedras del Tunjo” es considerado como un área de gran relevancia ancestral para la región. Las manifestaciones rupestres le han dado la importancia patrimonial que lo hacen resaltar a nivel nacional. Sin embargo, su funcionalidad contempla otros aspectos, además del cultural. El hecho que sea considerado como parte de la Estructura Ecológica Principal para el municipio de Facatativá y para el departamento de Cundinamarca, así como un lugar de recreación para los habitantes de la región, le otorgan una relevancia mayor. El presente estudio analiza el paisaje del parque arqueológico, enfatizando en las especies vegetales arbóreas y su significancia frente a la multifuncionalidad del lugar. Se constituye de esta manera en una herramienta para la planificación y la configuración de espacios que posibiliten la articulación de los ámbitos cultural, recreativo y ecosistémico.
Evaluación del efecto sobre el metabolismo hídrico de la ciudad Bogotá como respuesta al cambio en el modelo de gestión del agua en los años 90
Authors: Ivanova Yulia , Domínguez Calle Efraín Antonio , Sarmiento Armando
Published: February 2019

Durante la decada de los noventa, Colombia y, en particular, la ciudad de Bogotá ha experimentado cambios en sus modelos de la gestión del recurso hídrico. En este artículo se calculó la huella hídrica de Bogotá para evaluar la incidencia de los cambios de modelo de gestión sobre el consumo del líquido y los vertimientos de aguas en la capital de la república. Como resultado, se obtuvo que la ciudad, entre 1993 y 2008, logró disminuir sus consumos en un 40% a pesar de su progresivo crecimiento y de que el decrecimiento de la presión sobre el recurso hídrico es una respuesta a los cambios administrativos, legislativos y culturales adelantados en Bogotá durante el periodo de tiempo mencionado. No obstante, el tema de manejo de vertimientos resultó ser un eslabón crítico, ya que la huella hídrica gris representa el 55,8% de la huella total de la capital, en la cual los aportes de vertimientos en la cuenca del río Tunjuelo resaltan como el mayor contaminante.
Sostenibilidad del Balneario El Rodadero, Santa Marta, Colombia
Authors: Sánchez Sánchez Luz Mery
Published: February 2019

La sostenibilidad en las dimensiones ambiental, sociocultural y económica; la subsidiariedad, la equidad, la eficiencia en la prestación de los servicios públicos y en la promoción del desarrollo económico local; la transparencia, el compromiso cívico y la ciudadanía, en especial las mujeres y los pobres, al igual que la seguridad de las personas y su ambiente, en conjunto con la unión y asociación de los grupos de interés públicos y privados, en forma vertical y horizontal, se constituyen en los principios de gobernabilidad urbana básicos establecidos por la Organización de las Naciones Unidas (ONU) (2005). En el ámbito turístico, es la brújula que debe direccionar la conversión de un destino turístico a uno sostenible, complementado con los lineamientos dados en el Programa 21 de la ONU, los Criterios Globales de Turismo Sostenible, la Carta Mundial de Turismo Sostenible +20 y la Organización Mundial del Turismo (OMT). Desde este contexto teórico, se determinan los factores de riesgo que pueden afectar la sostenibilidad del balneario El Rodadero, a partir de la descripción de los indicadores establecidos en la Norma Técnica Sectorial de Turismo- Destinos de Playa -Requisitos de Sostenibilidad (NTS-TS-001-2). Los datos provienen de la observación directa, y de algunos resultados de las encuestas aplicadas a turistas, empresarios, residentes, e informes de investigaciones relacionadas y boletines técnicos.
La autoestima, la extraversión y el resentimiento como variables predictoras del bienestar subjetivo
Authors: Murillo Muñoz Javier Alonso , Salazar Castillo Manuel Alberto
Published: February 2019

Estudio correlacional cuyo objetivo fue establecer la relación de las variables autoestima, extraversión y resentimiento con la satisfacción vital y la felicidad, identificando si las primeras podrían predecir las últimas. La muestra de 1207 residentes en el departamento del Valle del Cauca (Colombia) se obtuvo de manera no probabilística mediante la técnica de bola de nieve. Los resultados mostraron una relación positiva de la autoestima y la extraversión y negativa, del resentimiento, con los dos componentes del bienestar  (satisfacción vital y felicidad). Las tres variables emergieron como sus predictoras. Los resultados indicaron una relación más estrecha de la autoestima con la satisfacción vital y de la extraversión y el resentimiento, con la felicidad. Los factores disposicionales (autoestima, extraversión y resentimiento) tuvieron mayor peso que las variables sociodemográficas, en la explicación de varianza.
La comunicación científica y la política pública: ¿Es posible una política pública basada en la evidencia?
Authors: López López Wilson
Published: February 2019

Editorial
Students’ Views on the Acceptability of Government Databases for the Identification of Persons: A Pilot Study
Authors: Przygodzki-Lionet Nathalie , Mignol Marine , Cadet Fabien
Published: February 2019

The present study aims at mapping French students’ views regarding government databases. A set of realistic scenarios depicting a situation in which a government planned to create a new, more complete database on people, was created by varying the levels of diverse factors likely to have an impact of people’s views: (a) the current situation in the country (secure vs. insecure), (b) the type of information gathered, whether it was only demographic information or more complete information, (c) the possibility of access to personal information, and (d) the level of confidentiality of the data; that is, whether they have been coded and only public authorities can have access to them or other bodies such as trade companies can take and use them. Four qualitatively different positions were found: Totally negative attitude (30%), Depends on Guaranties (40%) and Tolerable in some cases (26%). Fourteen percent were undetermined. Left-wingers were most often of the idea that government databases were either unacceptable or at best tolerable, and Right-wingers and Centrists were most often of the idea that government databases could be acceptable to the essential condition that full confidentiality is guaranteed.
¿Los valores culturales afectan el bienestar humano? Evidencias desde los reportes de investigación
Authors: Gutiérrez-Carmona Andrés , Urzúa M. Alfonso
Published: February 2019

El bienestar ha sido estudiado ampliamente en las últimas décadas, y se le ha relacionado con múltiples variables. El presente artículo describe la relación entre el bienestar y los valores culturales, encontrada a través de la investigación empírica.  Se realizó una búsqueda bibliográfica en las bases de datos WoS y SCOPUS, considerando como palabras clave valores culturales y bienestar (cultural values & well-being). Los resultados son diversos y dan cuenta de la influencia del contexto cultural sobre el comportamiento del bienestar en los diferentes grupos humanos, dado que los niveles de bienestar se relacionan de forma diferente con múltiples variables, dependiendo del contexto sociocultural donde se hayan estudiado. Se espera, con esta revisión, poder contribuir a la comprensión de los valores culturales como mediadores en los niveles de bienestar del ser humano.
In situ studies of low temperature atomic level processing of GaN surfaces for atomic layer epitaxial growth
Authors: Rosenberg Samantha G. , Wagenbach Christa , Anderson Virginia R. , Johnson Scooter D. , Nepal Neeraj , Kozen Alexander C. , Woodward Jeffrey M. , Robinson Zachary R. , Munger Max , Joress Howie , Ludwig Karl F. , Eddy Charles R.
Published: February 2019

In situ synchrotron x-ray studies were employed to develop a fundamental understanding of the low temperature atomic level processes (ALPs) for GaN substrates to develop in situ methods for preparation of epitaxy ready surfaces. An emulated gallium flash-off (GFO) ALP, followed by a hydrogen clean ALP, and a subsequent nitridation ALP are studied as a function of temperature and number of cycles. The results demonstrate that ideal GFO ALP results are achieved at a higher temperature, 500 °C, and that only ten GFO ALP cycles are needed to remove the surface oxide and result in an ordered GaN surface. Continued GFO ALP cycles at 500 °C roughen the GaN surface. GFO ALP executed at 400 °C only roughens the surface, while executing the GFO ALP at 250 °C causes uneven surface features presumably due to the incomplete removal of the oxide. The hydrogen clean ALP generally roughens the surface at all three temperatures after 30 cycles of the GFO ALP. Further, the nitridation ALP executed after 30 cycles of the GFO ALP, at any of the above temperatures, has little effect since the surface of the GaN has been roughened beyond recovery. These results provide insight into optimal GaN substrate surface preparation at temperatures consistent with the low temperature atomic layer epitaxy process.
Closed Genome Sequences of Clinical Neisseria gonorrhoeae Strains Obtained from Combined Oxford Nanopore and Illumina Sequencing
Authors: White Richard C. , Torralba Manolito , Colt Kelly , Harrison Frank , Goglin Karrie , Nguyen Kevin , D’Souza Roshan , Bristow Claire C. , Ellis Olivia , Soge Olusegun O. , Klausner Jeffrey D. , Fouts Derrick E.
Published: February 2019

Neisseria gonorrhoeae
is the etiological agent of gonorrhea, the second most common notifiable disease in the United States. Here, we used a hybrid approach combining Oxford Nanopore Technologies MinION and Illumina MiSeq sequencing data to obtain closed genome sequences of nine clinical
N. gonorrhoeae
isolates.
Genome Resequencing of Laboratory Stocks of Burkholderia pseudomallei K96243
Authors: Wagley Sariqa , Scott Andrew E. , Ireland Philip M. , Prior Joann L. , Atkins Timothy P. , Bancroft Gregory J. , Studholme David J. , Titball Richard W.
Published: February 2019

We have resequenced the genomes of four
Burkholderia pseudomallei
K96243 laboratory cultures and compared them to the reported genome sequence that was published in 2004. Compared with the reference genome, these laboratory cultures harbored up to 42 single-nucleotide variants and up to 11 indels, including a 31.7-kb deletion in one culture.
Draft Genome Sequence of Porphyromonas gingivalis Strain 381 Okayama (381OKJP) Stock Culture
Authors: May Anthony C. , Maeda Hiroshi , Kurihara Hidemi , Miyamoto Manabu , Hongyo Hiroshi , Tanimoto Ichiro , Nagai Atsushi , Nishimura Fusanori , Murayama Yoji , Kato Keijiro , Kokeguchi Susumu , Cugini Carla
Published: February 2019

We report the draft genome sequence of
Porphyromonas gingivalis
strain 381 Okayama (381OKJP). The strain, obtained from the Socransky collection, has been used for experimentation since 1987.
Uncommon presentation of medication-related osteonecrosis of the mandible in a patient with metastatic prostate cancer
Authors: Thavarajah Meera , Jayaram Rahul
Published: February 2019

An 82-year-old man with a background of prostate carcinoma and bony metastases presented with bilateral discharging neck fistulae. Two years prior to presentation, the patient had been treated with intravenous zoledronic acid for 1 year as part of chemotherapy. Intraoral examination revealed extensive bilateral medication-related osteonecrosis, with orocutaneous fistulae within the neck. Treatment comprised removal of loose necrotic bone sequestrae, debridement of the fistulae and long-term administration of antibiotics, vitamin E and pentoxifylline. Four weeks later, the orocutaneous fistulae had healed.
Endophthalmitis with bilateral deafness from disseminatedStreptococcus suisinfection
Authors: Rayanakorn Ajaree , Katip Wasan , Lee Learn Han , Oberdorfer Peninnah
Published: February 2019

Streptococcus suisis a Gram-positive cocci bacterium that are found mainly in pigs and can be transmitted to human through pigs or pork exposure. The disease is mainly found among occupations involving swine contact in western countries whereas in Asia the disease is usually contracted through raw pork consumption. In this case report, we present a case of a middle-aged Thai man who acquired the infection from raw pork consumption. He presented with endogenous endophthalmitis with infective spondylodiscitis, sepsis and meningitis and later developed blindness of the right eye and permanent bilateral hearing loss disseminated fromS. suisinfection. Our report suggests thatS. suisinfection be considered as a causative factor in patient presenting with established clinical symptoms and predisposing factors. Cultural habit of eating raw pork should be taken into account especially in Asian countries.
Knee strength, hop performance and self-efficacy at 4 months are associated with symmetrical knee muscle function in young athletes 1 year after an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction
Authors: Beischer Susanne , Hamrin Senorski Eric , Thomeé Christoffer , Samuelsson Kristian , Thomeé Roland
Published: February 2019

Objectives

We investigated whether patient demographics, 4-month patient-reported outcomes (PRO) and muscle function predicted young athletes regaining symmetrical muscle function in five tests of muscle function 1 year after ACL reconstruction.

Methods

We extracted data on patient demographics, PROs and the results of five tests of muscle function from a rehabilitation-specific register. Athletes were 15–30 years of age, involved in knee-strenuous sport and had undergone a primary ACL reconstruction. The primary outcome was achieving a Limb Symmetry Index of ≥90% for the battery of tests 1 year after ACL reconstruction. Patient demographics, muscle-function data and results for PROs at the 4-month follow-up were analysed.

Results

In all, 237 athletes (59% female; mean age 22±4 years) were included in the study. One year after ACL reconstruction, 26% (62/237) of the included athletes had achieved symmetrical muscle function. Univariable analysis showed that symmetrical muscle function was associated with present self-efficacy, OR 1.28 (95% CI 1.04 to 1.58, p=0.011), knee-extension strength, OR 1.73 (95% CI 1.28 to 2.34), knee-flexion strength, OR 1.39 (95% CI 1.07 to 1.81), vertical hop, OR 1.77 (95% CI 1.27 to 2.45), single-leg hop for distance, OR 1.98 (95% CI 1.24 to 3.17) and side hop, OR 1.64 (95% CI 1.15 to 2.33).

Conclusion

Symmetrical knee-extension and knee-flexion strength, a more symmetrical hop performance and higher present self-efficacy at an early stage all increased the odds of achieving symmetrical muscle function in young athletes 1 year after ACL reconstruction.
Progress towards using community context with clinical data in primary care
Authors: Angier Heather , Jacobs Elizabeth A , Huguet Nathalie , Likumahuwa-Ackman Sonja , Robert Stephanie , DeVoe Jennifer E
Published: February 2019

Community-level factors have significant impacts on health. There is renewed enthusiasm for integrating these data with electronic health record (EHR) data for use in primary care to improve health equity in the USA. Thus, it is valuable to reflect on what has been published to date. Specifically, we comment on: (1) recommendations about combining community-level factors in EHRs for use in primary care; (2) examples of how these data have been combined and used; and (3) the impact of using combined data on healthcare, patient health and health equity. We found publications discussing the potential of combined data to inform clinical care, target interventions, track population health and spark community partnerships with the goal of reducing health disparities and improving health equity. Although there is great enthusiasm and potential for using these data to inform primary care, there is little evidence of improved healthcare, patient health or health equity.
Qualitative study to identify the perception and challenges faced by the faculty of community medicine in the implementation of competency-based medical education for postgraduate students
Authors: Shrivastava Saurabh Rambiharilal , Shrivastava Prateek Saurabh
Published: February 2019

Objectives

To identify perception about the key aspects of competency-based medical education (CBME) among community medicine faculty members and to ascertain the various challenges faced by them during its implementation.

Methods

A descriptive qualitative study of 2 months’ duration was conducted among the faculty members of the community medicine department. Non-probability purposive sampling was employed in the study. Free listing was done initially to elicit the views of faculty members to meet the intended objectives. Visual Anthropac software was used to identify the salient variables using Smith’s Salience Score, and then pile sorting was done to identify the association between the salient variables.

Results

Three faculty members participated in the free listing and pile sorting. A total of 20 responses were obtained pertaining to the key aspects of CBME, of which 12 were identified as the salient variables depending on the cut-off value of 0.125 (Smith’s Salience Score) and subjected to pile sorting. Similarly, eight challenges were identified in the implementation of the programme during the free listing, and all were included in the second stage of pile sorting. Cognitive maps were drawn to understand the relationship between the key aspects of CBME and involved challenges separately.

Conclusion

On employing the free listing and pile sorting methods, formulation of entrustable professional activities and their assessment using appropriate tools were the identified crucial areas in CBME, while the lack of sensitisation of stakeholders and inadequate planning were identified as the predominant challenges in the implementation of CBME.
Distal transradial access in the anatomical snuffbox for diagnostic cerebral angiography
Authors: Brunet Marie-Christine , Chen Stephanie H , Sur Samir , McCarthy David J , Snelling Brian , Yavagal Dileep R , Starke Robert M , Peterson Eric C
Published: February 2019

Background

The transradial approach for endovascular angiography and interventional procedures is superior to the traditional transfemoral approach in several metrics, including lower access-site complication rates, higher patient satisfaction, and lower hospital costs. Interventional cardiologists have begun to adopt the distal transradial approach (dTRA) for coronary interventions as it has an improved safety profile and improved procedural ergonomics. Adaptation of dTRA for neuroendovascular procedures promises similar benefit, but requires a learning curve.

Objective

To report the first use of dTRA for diagnostic cerebral angiography and demonstrate the feasibility and safety of a dTRA.

Methods

A retrospective review of our prospective institutional database of consecutive cases of cerebral DSA performed via dTRA between August 2018 and December 2018 was performed. Patient demographics, procedural and radiographic metrics, and clinical data were recorded.

Results

85 patients were identified with an average age of 53.8 years (range 18–82); 67 (78.8%) patients were female. 78 patients underwent successful dTRA diagnostic cerebral angiography, with a mean of five vessels catheterized and average fluoroscopy time of 12.0 min, or 2.6 min for each vessel. Seven patients required conversion to transfemoral access, with the most common reason being inability to advance the wire and radial artery spasm. There were no complications.

Conclusion

dTRA is associated with decreased rates of radial artery occlusion, ischemic hand events, as well as improved patient comfort, faster periprocedural management, and cost benefits. Our preliminary experience with dTRA for diagnostic cerebral angiography demonstrates excellent feasibility and safety in combination with relative efficiency.
Design Automation for Dilution of a Fluid Using Programmable Microfluidic Device--Based Biochips
Authors: Gupta Ankur , Huang Juinn-Dar , Yamashita Shigeru , Roy Sudip
Published: February 2019

Microfluidic lab-on-a-chip has emerged as a new technology for implementing biochemical protocols on small-sized portable devices targeting low-cost medical diagnostics. Among various efforts of fabrication of such chips, a relatively new technology is a programmable microfluidic device (PMD) for implementation of flow-based lab-on-a-chip. A PMD chip is suitable for automation due to its symmetric nature. In order to implement a bioprotocol on such a reconfigurable device, it is crucial to automate a sample preparation on-chip as well. In this article, we propose a dilution PMD algorithm (namely
DPMD
) and its architectural mapping scheme (namely generalized architectural mapping algorithm (
GAMA
)) for addressing fluidic cells of such a device to perform dilution of a reagent fluid on-chip. We used an optimization function that first minimizes the number of mixing steps and then reduces the waste generation and further reagent requirement. Simulation results show that the proposed
DPMD
scheme is comparative to the existing state-of-the-art dilution algorithm. The proposed design automation using the architectural mapping scheme reduces the required chip area and, hence, minimizes the valve switching that, in turn, increases the life span of the PMD-chip.
Natural killer cells contribute to mitochondrial dysfunction in response to placental ischemia in reduced uterine perfusion pressure rats
Authors: Vaka Venkata Ramana , McMaster Kristen M. , Cornelius Denise C. , Ibrahim Tarek , Jayaram Aswathi , Usry Nathan , Cunningham Mark W. , Amaral Lorena M. , LaMarca Babbette
Published: February 2019

Preeclampsia (PE) is characterized by new-onset hypertension during pregnancy and is associated with immune activation and placental oxidative stress. Mitochondrial dysfunction is a major source of oxidative stress and may play a role in the pathology of PE. We (Vaka VR, et al. Hypertension 72: 703–711, 2018. doi: 10.1161/HYPERTENSIONAHA.118.11290 .) have previously shown that placental ischemia is associated with mitochondrial oxidative stress in the reduced uterine perfusion pressure (RUPP) model of PE. Furthermore, we have also shown that placental ischemia induces natural killer (NK) cell activation in RUPP. Thus, we hypothesize that NK cell depletion could improve mitochondrial function associated with hypertension in the RUPP rat model of PE. Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into three groups: normal pregnant (NP), RUPP, and RUPP+NK cell depletion rats (RUPP+NKD). On gestational day ( GD) 14, RUPP surgery was performed, and NK cells were depleted by administering anti-asialo GM1 antibodies (3.5 µg/100 µl ip) on GD15 and GD17. On GD19, mean arterial pressure (MAP) was measured, and placental mitochondria were isolated and used for mitochondrial assays. MAP was elevated in RUPP versus NP rats (119 ± 1 vs.104 ± 2 mmHg, P = 0.0004) and was normalized in RUPP+NKD rats (107 ± 2 mmHg, P = 0.002). Reduced complex IV activity and state 3 respiration rate were improved in RUPP+NKD rats. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells treated with RUPP+NKD serum restored respiration with reduced mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS). The restored placental or endothelial mitochondrial function along with attenuated endothelial cell mitochondrial ROS with NK cell depletion indicate an important role of NK cells in mediating mitochondrial oxidative stress in the pathology of PE.