bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“… They don’t really listen to people”
Authors: Creswick Helen , Dowthwaite Liz , Koene Ansgar , Perez Vallejos Elvira , Portillo Virginia , Cano Monica , Woodard Christopher
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The voices of children and young people have been largely neglected in discussions of the extent to which the internet takes into account their needs and concerns. This paper aims to highlight young people’s lived experiences of being online.

Design/methodology/approach

Results are drawn from the UnBias project’s youth led discussions, “Youth Juries” with young people predominantly aged between 13 and 17 years.

Findings

Whilst the young people are able to use their agency online in some circumstances, many often experience feelings of disempowerment and resignation, particularly in relation to the terms and conditions and user agreements that are ubiquitous to digital technologies, social media platforms and other websites.

Practical implications

Although changes are afoot as part of the General Data Protection Regulation (herein the GDPR) to simplify the terms and conditions of online platforms (European Union, 2016), it offers little practical guidance on how it should be implemented to children. The voices and opinions of children and young people are put forward as suggestions for how the “clear communication to data subjects” required by Article 12 of the GDPR in particular should be implemented, for example, recommendations about how terms and conditions can be made more accessible.

Originality/value

Children and young people are an often overlooked demographic of online users. This paper argues for the importance of this group being involved in any changes that may affect them, by putting forward recommendations from the children and young people themselves.
Viewpoint: the role of cancer resource center services on men's health
Authors: Rosenbaum Mark S. , Contreras Ramírez German
Published: July 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to develop a conceptual framework that clarifies the social supportive role of cancer resource center services in the lives of men with cancer and its impact on their perceived quality of life.

Design/methodology/approach

Personal reflections.

Findings

The authors put forth a conceptual framework which shows that men with cancer may perceive the availability of four types of social support from others present in a cancer resource center. The perceived availability of social support is posited to enhance their perceptions of their quality of life.

Research limitations/implications

The study yields propositions that may be empirically tested by services and health researchers in future studies. In addition, the research findings may not extend to terminally ill male cancer patients.

Practical implications

Given the health benefits associated with social support, health-care professionals, social workers and cancer center directors should encourage their male cancer patients to participate in cancer resource programing and activities.

Social implications

Cancer resource centers offer male cancer patients opportunities to enhance their quality of life beyond the use of pharmaceutical drugs or professional medical treatment. The health benefits may lower costs associated with medical expenses.

Originality/value

This study contributes to an emerging paradigm in services marketing. It is one of the first papers to focus on the socially supportive role that cancer resource center services may assume in the lives of men with cancer and those surviving the disease.
Hybrid active contour model and deep belief network based approach for brain tumor segmentation and classification
Authors: Ratna Raju Ayalapogu , Pabboju Suresh , Rajeswara Rao Ramisetty
Published: July 2019

Purpose

Brain tumor segmentation and classification is the interesting area for differentiating the tumorous and the non-tumorous cells in the brain and classifies the tumorous cells for identifying its level. The methods developed so far lack the automatic classification, consuming considerable time for the classification. In this work, a novel brain tumor classification approach, namely, harmony cuckoo search-based deep belief network (HCS-DBN) has been proposed. Here, the images present in the database are segmented based on the newly developed hybrid active contour (HAC) segmentation model, which is the integration of the Bayesian fuzzy clustering (BFC) and the active contour model. The proposed HCS-DBN algorithm is trained with the features obtained from the segmented images. Finally, the classifier provides the information about the tumor class in each slice available in the database. Experimentation of the proposed HAC and the HCS-DBN algorithm is done using the MRI image available in the BRATS database, and results are observed. The simulation results prove that the proposed HAC and the HCS-DBN algorithm have an overall better performance with the values of 0.945, 0.9695 and 0.99348 for accuracy, sensitivity and specificity, respectively.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed HAC segmentation approach integrates the properties of the AC model and BFC. Initially, the brain image with different modalities is subjected to segmentation with the BFC and AC models. Then, the Laplacian correction is applied to fuse the segmented outputs from each model. Finally, the proposed HAC segmentation provides the error-free segments of the brain tumor regions prevailing in the MRI image. The next step is to extract the useful features, based on scattering transform, wavelet transform and local Gabor binary pattern, from the segmented brain image. Finally, the extracted features from each segment are provided to the DBN for the training, and the HCS algorithm chooses the optimal weights for DBN training.

Findings

The experimentation of the proposed HAC with the HCS-DBN algorithm is analyzed with the standard BRATS database, and its performance is evaluated based on metrics such as accuracy, sensitivity and specificity. The simulation results of the proposed HAC with the HCS-DBN algorithm are compared against existing works such as k-NN, NN, multi-SVM and multi-SVNN. The results achieved by the proposed HAC with the HCS-DBN algorithm are eventually higher than the existing works with the values of 0.945, 0.9695 and 0.99348 for accuracy, sensitivity and specificity, respectively.

Originality/value

This work presents the brain tumor segmentation and the classification scheme by introducing the HAC-based segmentation model. The proposed HAC model combines the BFC and the active contour model through a fusion process, using the Laplacian correction probability for segmenting the slices in the database.
Vaginal ‘rejuvenation’ and cosmetic vaginal procedures
Authors:   RANZCOG Women's Health Committee
Published: July 2019

Background:

This statement was first developed by the Women's Health Committee in July 2008 and most recently reviewed in March 2019.

Funding:

The development and review of this statement was funded by RANZCOG.
Classification of drug‐induced hERG potassium‐channel block from electrocardiographic T‐wave features using artificial neural networks
Authors: Morettini Micaela , Peroni Chiara , Sbrollini Agnese , Marcantoni Ilaria , Burattini Laura
Published: July 2019

Background

Human ether‐à‐go‐go‐related gene (hERG) potassium‐channel block represents a harmful side effect of drug therapy that may cause torsade de pointes (TdP). Analysis of ventricular repolarization through electrocardiographic T‐wave features represents a noninvasive way to accurately evaluate the TdP risk in drug‐safety studies. This study proposes an artificial neural network (ANN) for noninvasive electrocardiography‐based classification of the hERG potassium‐channel block.

Methods

The data were taken from the “ECG Effects of Ranolazine, Dofetilide, Verapamil, and Quinidine in Healthy Subjects” Physionet database; they consisted of median vector magnitude (VM) beats of 22 healthy subjects receiving a single 500 μg dose of dofetilide. Fourteen VM beats were considered for each subject, relative to time‐points ranging from 0.5 hr before to 14.0 hr after dofetilide administration. For each VM, changes in two indexes accounting for the early and the late phases of repolarization, ΔERD30% and ΔTS/A, respectively, were computed as difference between values at each postdose time‐point and the predose time‐point. Thus, the dataset contained 286 ΔERD30%‐ΔTS/A pairs, partitioned into training, validation, and test sets (114, 29, and 143 pairs, respectively) and used as inputs of a two‐layer feedforward ANN with two target classes: high block (HB) and low block (LB). Optimal ANN (OANN) was identified using the training and validation sets and tested on the test set.

Results

Test set area under the receiver operating characteristic was 0.91; sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and precision were 0.93, 0.83, 0.92, and 0.96, respectively.

Conclusion

OANN represents a reliable tool for noninvasive assessment of the hERG potassium‐channel block.
Climate change, migration and human rights in Bangladesh: Perspectives on governance
Authors: Naser Mostafa Mahmud , Swapan Mohammad Shahidul Hasan , Ahsan Reazul , Afroz Tanzim , Ahmed Sabrina
Published: July 2019

Bangladesh experiences some of the most severe impacts of climate change, with impacts already evident in the coastal regions. Recent data shows that around 32% of the coastal communities in Bangladesh are affected by climate‐induced hazards each year. In 2011, 64% among them were displaced locally and 27% were displaced to other locations in Bangladesh. It requires comprehensive and viable polices and planning to meet the challenges of managing a large number of displaced people. In this context, this paper reviews and investigates the effectiveness of current governance frameworks to address migration of affected communities. It argues that migration can be an effective way to cope with environmental shocks. Finally, it discusses policy imperatives for effective protection of people displaced by climate risks with a special reference to adopting a human rights‐based approach in law and policy making for climate‐induced migration.
Survival and specific outcome of sickle cell disease patients after renal transplantation
Authors: Gérardin Christel , Moktefi Anissa , Couchoud Cécile , Duquesne Alyette , Ouali Nacera , Gataut Philippe , Karras Alexandre , Anglicheau Dany , Lefaucheur Carmen , Figueres Lucile , Albano Laetitia , Lionet Arnaud , Novion Marine , Ziliotis Marie‐Julia , Louis Magali , Del Bello Arnaud , Matignon Marie , Dahan Karine , Habibi Anoosha , Galacteros Frederic , Bartolucci Pablo , Grimbert Philippe , Audard Vincent
Published: July 2019

The prognosis of sickle cell disease (SCD) patients who need dialysis is poor, but experience with kidney transplantation is limited. This study assessed the characteristics of 36 SCD patients undergoing renal transplantation. Immediate post‐surgical complications occurred in 25% of cases. Cytomegalovirus and bacterial infections were frequently observed. Twelve patients died after a median follow‐up period of 17·4 months. Overall patient survival was significantly lower in SCD than in the control group without significant difference for overall death‐censored graft survival. Our data suggest that renal transplantation should be systematically considered in SCD patients with end‐stage renal disease.
Pharmacology of bisphosphonates in pain
Authors: Tzschentke Thomas M.
Published: July 2019

The treatment of pain, in particular, chronic pain, remains a clinical challenge. This is particularly true for pain associated with severe or rare conditions, such as bone cancer pain, vulvodynia, or complex regional pain syndrome. Over the recent years, there is an increasing interest in the potential of bisphosphonates in the treatment of pain, although there are few papers describing antinociceptive and anti‐hypersensitizing effects of bisphosphonates in various animal models of pain. There is also increasing evidence for clinical efficacy of bisphosphonates in chronic pain states, although the number of well‐controlled studies is still limited. However, the mechanisms underlying the analgesic effects of bisphosphonates are still largely elusive. This review provides an overview of preclinical and clinical studies of bisphosphonates in pain and discusses various pharmacological mechanisms that have been postulated to explain their analgesic effects.

LINKED ARTICLES

This article is part of a themed issue on The molecular pharmacology of bone and cancer‐related bone diseases. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v178.9/issuetoc
The time frame of home‐range studies: from function to utilization
Authors: Péron Guillaume
Published: July 2019

As technological and statistical innovations open new avenues in movement ecology, I review the fundamental implications of the time frame of home‐range studies, with the aim of associating terminologies consistently with research objectives and methodologies. There is a fundamental distinction between (a) extrapolations of stationary distributions, associated with long time scales and aiming at asymptotic consistency, and (b) period‐specific techniques, aiming at specificity but typically sensitive to the sampling design. I then review the difference between function and utilization in home‐range studies. Most home‐range studies are based on phenomenological descriptions of the time budgets of the study animals, not the function of the visited areas. I highlight emerging trends in automated pattern‐recognition techniques for inference about function rather than utilization.
Cancer therapy with major histocompatibility complex‐deficient and interferon β‐producing myeloid cells derived from allogeneic embryonic stem cells
Authors: Umemoto Satoshi , Haruta Miwa , Sakisaka Masataka , Ikeda Tokunori , Tsukamoto Hirotake , Komohara Yoshihiro , Takeya Motohiro , Nishimura Yasuharu , Senju Satoru
Published: July 2019

We previously established a method to generate myeloid cells with a proliferative capability from pluripotent stem cells and designated them iPS‐ML. Human iPS‐ML cells share features with physiological macrophages including the capability to infiltrate into cancer tissues. We observed therapeutic effects of human iPS‐ML cells expressing interferon β (iPS‐ML/interferon (IFN)‐β) in xenograft cancer models. However, assessment of host immune system‐mediated therapeutic and adverse effects of this therapy is impossible by xenograft models. We currently evaluated the therapeutic effects of a mouse equivalent of human iPS‐ML/IFN, a mouse embryonic stem (ES) cell‐derived myeloid cell line producing IFN (ES‐ML/IFN). The ES‐MLs producing IFN‐β (β‐ML) and IFN‐γ (γ‐ML) and originating from E14 ES cells derived from the 129 mouse strain (H‐2b) were generated, and the MHC (H‐2Kb, Db, and I‐Ab) genes of the ES‐ML/IFN were disrupted using the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CAS9 method. We used the ES‐ML/IFN to treat allogeneic BALB/c mice (H‐2d) transplanted with Colon26 cancer cells. Treatment with β‐ML but not with γ‐ML cells repressed the growth of colon cancer in the peritoneal cavity and liver. The transferred ES‐ML/IFN infiltrated into cancer tissues and enhanced infiltration of T cells into cancer tissues. ES‐ML/IFN therapy increased the number of immune cells in the lymphoid organs. Sensitization of both cancer antigen‐specific CD8+ T cells and natural killer (NK) cells were enhanced by the therapy, and CD8+ T cells were essential for the therapeutic effect, implying that donor MHC‐deficient β‐ML exhibited a therapeutic effect through the activation of host immune cells derived from allogeneic recipient mice. The results suggested the usefulness of HLA‐deficient human iPS‐ML/IFN‐β cells for therapy of HLA‐mismatched allogeneic cancer patients.
Functional analysis of novel RUNX2 mutations identified in patients with cleidocranial dysplasia
Authors: Hordyjewska‐Kowalczyk Ewa , Sowińska‐Seidler Anna , Olech Ewelina M. , Socha Magdalena , Glazar Renata , Kruczek Anna , Latos‐Bieleńska Anna , Tylzanowski Przemko , Jamsheer Aleksander
Published: July 2019

RUNX2 (Runt‐related transcription factor 2) is a master regulator of osteoblast differentiation, cartilage and bone development. Pathogenic variants in RUNX2 have been linked to the Cleidocranial dysplasia (CCD), which is characterized by hypoplasia or aplasia of clavicles, delayed fontanelle closure, and dental anomalies. Here, we report 11 unrelated Polish patients with CCD caused by pathogenic alterations located in the Runt domain of RUNX2. In total, we identified eight different intragenic variants, including seven missense and one splicing mutation. Three of them are novel: c.407T>A p.(Leu136Gln), c.480C>G p.(Asn160Lys), c.659C>G p.(Thr220Arg), additional three were not functionally tested: c.391C>T p.(Arg131Cys), c.580+1G>T p.(Lys195_Arg229del), c.652A>G p.(Lys218Glu), and the remaining two: c.568C>T p.(Arg190Trp), c.673C>T p.(Arg225Trp) were previously reported and characterized. The performed transactivation and localization studies provide evidence of decreased transcriptional activity of RUNX2 due to mutations targeting the Runt domain and prove that impairment of nuclear localization signal (NLS) affects the subcellular localization of the protein. Presented data show that pathogenic variants discovered in our patients have a detrimental effect on RUNX2, triggering the CCD phenotype.
Seasonal patterns of biodiversity in Mediterranean coastal lagoons
Authors: Bellino Alessandro , Mangano Maria Cristina , Baldantoni Daniela , Russell Bayden Dwight , Mannino Anna Maria , Mazzola Antonio , Vizzini Salvatrice , Sarà Gianluca
Published: July 2019

Aim

Understanding and quantifying the seasonal patterns in biodiversity of phytobenthos, macro‐zoobenthos and fishes in Mediterranean coastal lagoons, and the species dependence upon environmental factors.

Location

The study was carried out in the “Stagnone di Marsala e Saline di Trapani e Paceco,” the largest coastal lagoon system in the central Mediterranean Sea (Sicily, Italy), a Special Protection Area located along one of the central ecological corridors joining Africa and Europe.

Methods

The coastal lagoon system was selected as a model ecosystem to investigate the seasonal variations in biodiversity indices and dominance–diversity relationships in phytobenthos, macro‐zoobenthos and fishes, and how seasonal variations in temperature, salinity, depth, inorganic and organic suspended matter affect the abundance of the species constituting these communities. Models of ecosystem structure, describing the interactions among functional groups and environmental variables, were also developed using confirmatory path analysis and artificial neural networks to exemplify their application in predicting temperature‐driven alterations.

Results

Wide seasonal variations in biodiversity indices and dominance–diversity relationships across the communities of the coastal lagoon system were observed, driven by the dynamics in climate and resource availability. The effects of the environmental variables on taxon abundances varied in relation to the community, with the widest responses elicited in phytobenthos and fishes. Temperature was the main variable affecting taxon abundances in macro‐zoobenthos and was also the major driver of shallow water ecosystem structure.

Main conclusions

This research shed light on the seasonal variations in biodiversity of Mediterranean coastal lagoons, elucidating also the tight dependence of phytobenthos, macro‐zoobenthos and fish diversity upon environmental factors. The findings and the methodological approach proposed may be crucial in developing models able to predict future climate‐driven alterations in communities inhabiting these important and threatened ecosystems.
An evidence‐based approach to developing low‐carbohydrate diets for type 2 diabetes management: A systematic review of interventions and methods
Authors: Turton Jessica , Brinkworth Grant D. , Field Rowena , Parker Helen , Rooney Kieron
Published: July 2019

Aim

To identify core diet and delivery components of low‐carbohydrate (CHO) diets that have demonstrated efficacy for type 2 diabetes (T2D) management.

Materials and methods

MEDLINE, Pre‐MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and the Cochrane Library of Controlled Trials databases were systematically searched from inception until August 18, 2018. Primary intervention studies of low‐CHO diets (≤130 g/d or 26% total energy intake [TEI]) were included. Content analysis was performed on the low‐CHO diet protocols classified as safe and effective for T2D management.

Results

A total of 41 studies published between 1963 and 2018 were included, of which 40 were classified as safe and effective for inclusion in the primary analysis. Thirteen studies (13/40) were on very‐low‐CHO diets (<50 g/d), 14/40 included low‐CHO diets (≤130 g/d or 26% TEI), and 13/40 were adapted according to participant progress. Thirty‐one studies reported a total energy prescription, of which 18/31 encouraged ad libitum intakes. Twenty studies reported a prescribed dietary fat amount, of which 18/20 were unrestricted or high‐fat (>35% TEI). Twenty‐six studies reported a prescribed dietary protein amount, of which 22 were unrestricted or were high‐protein (>25% TEI). The types of dietary CHO, fat and protein recommended were predominantly whole foods. Common delivery methods reported were dietician and/or physician involvement, moderate to high frequency of contact (≥1 session/month) and use of participant self‐monitoring.

Conclusions

Multiple approaches for developing and delivering a low‐CHO diet intervention for T2D management are safe and effective. A comprehensive set of core dietary components to consider in the formulation of low‐CHO diet protocols were identified for use in clinical practice and to inform evidence‐based guidelines for T2D management.
Predation differentially structures immature mosquito populations in stormwater ponds
Authors: Holmes Christopher J. , Cáceres Carla E.
Published: July 2019

1. Understanding the factors underlying the abundance and distribution of species requires the consideration of a complex suite of interacting biotic and abiotic factors operating on multiple spatial and temporal scales. Larval mosquitoes inhabiting small human‐constructed ponds represent a unique opportunity to investigate the relative importance of these structuring mechanisms while simultaneously generating applied knowledge on mosquito control.

2. A multi‐year field survey of 32 stormwater ponds was conducted in central Illinois (Champaign County). From each pond, data were collected on pond structure type and hydroperiod, the presence/absence of cattails (Typha spp.), and measures of total nitrogen, phosphorus, and organic carbon, and chlorophyll a. The communities of crustacean zooplankton and aquatic insects were characterised, and these taxa were assigned into two main groups: predators and competitors of larval mosquitoes. Structural equation modelling was used to explore the direct and indirect effects of these biotic and abiotic factors on larval density for three species of culicine mosquitoes (Culex pipiens, Culex restuans, and Aedes vexans).

3. Hydroperiod had an indirect negative effect on C. pipiens density. However, this effect was mediated by predator density; more permanent ponds had more predators, which therefore reduced the density of C. pipiens larvae. Aedes vexans density was positively correlated with predator density. No predictor variables were found that explained variation in C. restuans density.

4. This study show that the relative importance of these biotic and abiotic factors varies among species of culicine mosquitoes inhabiting stormwater ponds.
Arthropod carrion influences plant choice, oviposition, and cannibalism by a specialist predator on a sticky plant
Authors: Nelson Peter N. , Burrack Hannah J. , Sorenson Clyde E.
Published: July 2019

1. Dead arthropods, entrapped by trichomes on plant surfaces, are an underappreciated form of plant‐provided food. Specialist predatory arthropods able to manoeuvre on plants covered in trichomes facultatively scavenge on the alternative food resource, increasing their abundance and reducing plant damage by herbivores.

2. This protective mutualism dependent on arthropod carrion has been demonstrated in several plant species, but the mechanisms driving the increase in predator abundance have not been identified. Through a series of greenhouse and laboratory experiments, the effect of arthropod carrion on predator behaviour was assessed.

3. The predatorJalysus wickhamipreferredNicotiana tabacumplants augmented with arthropod carrion, spending significantly more time and laying more eggs on those plants than plants without arthropod carrion.

4. Under lowJ. wickhamidensities, arthropod carrion did not reduce egg cannibalism by adults. Under high densities, egg cannibalism byJ. wickhamiadults was reduced in the presence of arthropod carrion, but cannibalism by fifth instars was not.

5. Arthropod carrion may be utilised by a wide range of predatory arthropods that facultatively scavenge, and this research demonstrates its potential for influencing arthropod–plant and arthropod–arthropod interactions.
Migration matters: How migration is critical to contemporary human–environment geography
Authors: Jokisch Brad D. , Radel Claudia , Carte Lindsey , Schmook Birgit
Published: July 2019

Human migration plays a critical role in numerous contemporary environmental concerns including global climate change and environmental justice. This review characterizes the ways migration is critical to contemporary human–environment geography. We delineate four themes from the literature based on (a) how migration affects the environment; (b) how the environment and/or environmental events affect migration; (c) how migration produces uneven environmental benefits and burdens; and (d) how environmental displacement/dispossession produces migration and vice versa. We articulate five recommendations for a research agenda that integrates migration processes, recognizes migration as a heterogeneous process, and approaches human–environment interactions holistically and non‐deterministically.
Validation of the Oral Health Impact on Daily Life Questionnaire (OHIDL) among Hong Kong older adults
Authors: Liu Jian , Wong May Chun Mei , Lo Edward Chin Man
Published: July 2019

Background

The Oral Health Impact on Daily Life Questionnaire (OHIDL) was developed through a qualitative study to measure oral health‐related quality of life, including intensity and bother measurements, among older adults in Hong Kong. The instrument comprises 20 items divided into eight domains.

Objectives

This study describes the psychometric properties of the OHIDL and refines the instrument through validity and reliability testing.

Materials and methods

The OHIDL was administered to older adults who attended dental clinics for general dental treatments. Items with low discriminant ability were to be eliminated. Construct validity was assessed through convergent, divergent and factorial validity. Criterion validity was investigated by assessing the correlation between the measurements and the global questions. Reliability was assessed with Cronbach's alpha.

Results

In total, 306 participants (mean age: 69.6 years) completed the interviews. Two items for which over 90% of the participants reported no impact and two items with poor discriminant validity were eliminated. Both intensity and bother measurements demonstrated good construct and criterion validity, with the intensity measurement showing better performance being selected for the OHIDL to reduce the respondents’ burden. The intensity measurement also showed satisfactory internal consistency.

Conclusions

The refined OHIDL with 16 items in seven domains is valid and reliable in measuring the oral health impacts on daily life among Hong Kong older adults.
High‐Precision Cd Isotope Measurements of Soil and Rock Reference Materials by MC‐ICP‐MS with Double Spike Correction
Authors: Liu Meng‐Shu , Zhang Qun , Zhang Yingnan , Zhang Zhaofeng , Huang Fang , Yu Hui‐Min
Published: July 2019

This study presents a high‐precision Cd isotope measurement method for soil and rock reference materials using MC‐ICP‐MS with double spike correction. The effects of molecular interferences (e.g., 109Ag1H+, 94Zr16O+, 94Mo16O+ and 70Zn40Ar+) and isobaric interferences (e.g., Pd, In and Sn) to Cd isotope measurements were quantitatively evaluated. When the measured solution has Ag/Cd ≤ 5, Zn/Cd ≤ 0.02, Mo/Cd ≤ 0.4, Zr/Cd ≤ 0.001, Pd/Cd ≤ 5 × 10−5 and In/Cd ≤ 10−3, the measured Cd isotope data were not significantly affected. The intermediate measurement precision of pure Cd solutions (BAM I012 Cd, Münster Cd and AAS Cd) was better than ± 0.05‰ (2s) for δ114/110Cd. The δ114/110Cd values of soil reference materials (NIST SRM 2709, 2709a, 2710, 2710a, 2711, 2711a and GSS‐1) relative to NIST SRM 3108 were in the range of −0.251 to 0.632‰, the δ114/110Cd values of rock reference materials (BCR‐2, BIR‐1, BHVO‐2, W‐2, AGV‐2, GSP‐2 and COQ‐1) varied from −0.196‰ to 0.098‰, and that of the manganese nodule (NOD‐P‐1) was 0.163 ± 0.040‰ (2s, n = 8). The large variation in Cd isotopes in soils and igneous rocks indicates that they can be more widely used to study magmatic and supergene processes.
Solving Groundwater Flow Problems with Time Series Analysis: You May Not Even Need Another Model
Authors: Bakker Mark , Schaars Frans
Published: July 2019

Time series analysis is a data‐driven approach to analyze time series of heads measured in an observation well. Time series models are commonly much simpler and give much better fits than regular groundwater models. Time series analysis with response functions gives insight into why heads vary, while such insight is difficult to gain with black box models out of the artificial intelligence world. An important application is to quantify the contributions to the head variation of different stresses on the aquifer, such as rainfall and evaporation, pumping, and surface water levels. Time series analysis may be applied to answer many groundwater questions without the need for a regular groundwater model, such as what is the drawdown caused by a pumping station? Or, how long will it take before groundwater levels recover after a period of drought? Even when a regular groundwater model is needed to solve a groundwater problem, time series analysis can be of great value. It can be used to clean up the data, identify the major stresses on the aquifer, determine the most important processes that affect flow in the aquifer, and give an indication of the fit that can be expected. In addition, it can be used to determine calibration targets for steady‐state models, and it can provide several alternative calibration methods for transient models. In summary, the overarching message of this paper is that it would be wise to do time series analysis for any application that uses measured groundwater heads.
Three criteria for radiological response on survival in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma treated with lenvatinib
Authors: Kaneko Shun , Tsuchiya Kaoru , Kurosaki Masayuki , Kirino Sakura , Inada Kento , Yamashita Koji , Osawa Leona , Hayakawa Yuka , Sekiguchi Shuhei , Watakabe Keiya , Okada Mao , Wang Wan , Shimizu Takao , Higuchi Mayu , Takaura Kenta , Maeyashiki Chiaki , Tamaki Nobuharu , Yasui Yutaka , Takeguchi Takaya , Takeguchi Yuko , Nakanishi Hiroyuki , Itakura Jun , Takahashi Yuka , Himeno Yoshiro , Izumi Namiki
Published: July 2019

Aim

Lenvatinib (LEN) is a newly approved, multikinase inhibitor for treating unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma. In the present study, we investigated the impact of three different criteria for evaluating radiological objective response (OR) on overall survival in real‐world data.

Methods

Consent for LEN therapy was obtained from 51 patients from April 2018 to March 2019. A total of 40 patients who received a minimal cumulative duration of 4 weeks of LEN were included in the analysis. Enhanced computed tomography scan was performed at baseline and every 4–8 weeks after LEN administration. Overall survival and OR were assessed with three different evaluations, as follows: Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors 1.1, modified Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors, and Choi criteria.

Results

The average observation period for all participants after LEN introduction was 209.4 ± 77.5 days. The Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors 1.1, modified Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors, and Choi criteria identified 10 of 40 (25.0%), 15 of 40 (37.5%), and 18of 40 (45.0%) patients with OR, respectively. The median overall survival in progressive disease evaluated by each criterion was 227 days. This result was significantly shorter than OR. Furthermore, the cumulative duration of LEN administration (>150 days) represented a significant prognostic factor (HR 0.160. 95% CI 0.039–0.646, P = 0.001).

Conclusion

The Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors 1.1, modified Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors, and Choi criteria were useful therapeutic evaluation methods in LEN therapy for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma. LEN's appropriate effect evaluation and management might lead to a better prognosis.
High incidence of MYC rearrangement in human immunodeficiency virus‐positive plasmablastic lymphoma
Authors: Miao Lanfang , Guo Na , Feng Yanfen , Rao Huilan , Wang Fang , Huang Qitao , Huang Yuhua
Published: July 2019

Aims

MYC rearrangements are the main cytogenetic alterations in plasmablastic lymphoma (PBL). We aimed to investigate the relationship between MYC rearrangement and the clinicopathological features of PBL.

Methods and results

MYC rearrangements assessed in 13 unpublished single‐centre PBL cases, and an additional 85 cases from the literature, with reported MYC rearrangement information individualised by patient, were reviewed. In Asia, PBL was much less commonly diagnosed in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐positive patients (27% versus 84%, P = 0.000), with older age (median age at diagnosis: 52 years versus 44 years, P = 0.046) and a lower EBV infection rate (56.8% versus 81.8%, P = 0.049), than in non‐Asian regions. Overall, MYC rearrangements were identified in 44 of 98 (44.9%) PBL cases, and IGH was the partner in almost all available cases (30/31, 96.8%), as confirmed with a MYC–IGH fusion probe. The MYC rearrangement rate in HIV‐positive cases (33/55, 60.0%) was significantly higher than that in HIV‐negative cases (11/38, 28.9%, P = 0.003). Patients with MYC rearrangement showed a trend towards an inferior median survival time (9.6 months versus 15.7 months, P = 0.122) and 2‐year overall survival (17% versus 32%, P = 0.238).

Conclusions

MYC rearrangement was frequently identified in PBL patients, and IGH was the partner gene in an overwhelming majority of MYC rearrangements. In addition, the MYC rearrangement rate was significantly higher in HIV‐positive PBL patients than that in HIV‐negative patients. MYC rearrangement may play an important role in the pathogenesis of HIV‐positive PBL, but further studies are required to understand the underlying mechanisms.
Dermoscopy of primary cutaneous B‐ and T‐cell lymphomas and pseudolymphomas presenting as solitary nodules and tumors: a case‐control study with histopathologic correlation
Authors: Navarrete‐Dechent Cristián , del Puerto Constanza , Abarzúa‐Araya Álvaro , Molgó Montserrat , Geller Shamir , Andreani Sebastián , Cury‐Martins Jade , Sanches Jose A. , Montoya Javier , González Sergio , Uribe Pablo
Published: July 2019

Background

Primary cutaneous lymphomas (PCLs) and pseudolymphomas presenting as single pink‐red nodules/tumors are highly unspecific and include a wide differential diagnosis.

Objective

To describe the dermoscopic characteristics of PCL/pseudolymphoma.

Methods

In this retrospective, case‐control study, we evaluated the dermoscopic features of patients with solitary PCL/pseudolymphoma tumors and compared them to a control group of non‐lymphomatous, nonpigmented, solitary tumors (e.g., basal cell carcinoma, amelanotic melanoma, etc).

Results

We included 14 patients with PCL/pseudolymphomas and 35 controls. T‐cell and B‐cell lymphoma proportions were 28.6% (n = 4) and 71.4% (n = 10), respectively. Compared to controls, most lymphomas presented dermoscopically with orange color (71.4% vs. 14.2%, P < 0.001), follicular plugs (85% vs. 2.8%, P < 0.001), and as  organized lesions (85% vs. 31.4%, P = 0.001). Coexistence of orange color and follicular plugs had an odds ratio (OR) of 2.8 (P < 0.001), highly suggestive of PCL . The kappa index for independent observers was 0.66, 0.49, 0.43 for orange background, follicular plugs, and organized lesion, respectively. Histopathologic correlation was performed in six PCL cases and showed dense diffuse and perifollicular lymphocytic infiltrate in all cases and keratin plugs in five of six cases, possibly correlating with the orange color and the follicular plugs, respectively.

Conclusion

Primary cutaneous lymphomas/pseudolymphomas present with characteristic dermoscopic findings irrespective of immunohistochemical subtype.
The impact of team‐based learning on students with different self‐regulated learning abilities
Authors: Lin Jian‐Wei
Published: July 2019

Team‐based learning (TBL) stresses applying knowledge rather than absorbing knowledge in class; studies have investigated the use of TBL and its merits in different teaching courses (e.g., medical science and business). TBL is most effective when students learn autonomously before class. However, the ability of autonomous learning is highly associated with the ability of self‐regulated learning (SRL); most importantly, not every student possesses good (or high) SRL ability. Nevertheless, few studies have compared the effectiveness of TBL in students with different SRL abilities. To address this issue, this study analyzed approximately 90 students, whose course teaching involves office application software (Microsoft Excel). This study also developed an online TBL system (called Online TBL) to facilitate performing TBL and to collect the learning behaviours of students with different (high or low) SRL abilities on each TBL stage. The analytical results show that compared with the low‐SRL students, the high‐SRL students were more prepared for class because they spent more reviewing material and had better scores on personal uploaded Excel and Individual Readiness Assurance Test. From the feedback of the peer evaluation, the results also show that the high‐SRL students received more credits than the low‐SRL students did. The questionnaire survey revealed that both low‐SRL and high‐SRL students had a favourable impression of TBL. Further discussion is given to explain the above results.
Enteromius thespesios (Teleostei: Cyprinidae): a new minnow species with a remarkable sexual dimorphism from the south‐eastern part of the Upper Congo River
Authors: Katemo Manda Bauchet , Snoeks Jos , Decru Eva , Bills Roger , Vreven Emmanuel
Published: July 2019

A new minnow species, Enteromius thespesios, is described from the south‐eastern part of the upper Congo River; that is, the Kalule Nord, the Luvilombo and the Chambeshi Rivers. Enteromius thespesios belongs to the group of the soft‐rayed species of Enteromius from the Congo Basin; that is, those with a weakly ossified, flexible last unbranched dorsal‐fin ray that lacks serrations along its posterior edge. Within this group, E. thespesios is most similar to E. humeralis, from which it is distinguished by a higher number of circumpeduncular scales and shorter anterior and posterior barbels. Enteromius thespesios is a rheophilic and territorial species. It exhibits a marked sexual dimorphism, with males having: a red band towards the distal edge of dorsal, caudal and, to a lesser degree, anal fin; nuptial tubercles; a longer snout; longer pectoral fins; a shorter anal fin. This study gives extensive consideration to sexual shape differences for a species of Enteromius and also briefly reviews the current knowledge of sexual dimorphism in the species of Enteromius from the Congo Basin. Some conservation issues related to the new species are also highlighted.
Low temperature plasma pretreatment enhances hot‐air drying kinetics of corn kernels
Authors: Li Shuai , Chen Shanshan , Liang Qing , Ma Zhongsu , Han Feng , Xu Yan , Jin Yi , Wu Wenfu
Published: July 2019

In this study, an efficient method for hot‐air drying of corn kernels was developed through a pretreatment of low temperature plasma. Corn kernels after plasma pretreatment were dried at 37.5, 45, and 52.5°C. It was found that the dried samples with plasma pretreatment presented shorter drying time and higher drying rate. After pretreatment power of 500 W for 30 s at 37.5°C, drying time was shortened by a maximum of 21.52%, and the drying rate was increased by 8.15%. The effective moisture diffusivity is in the range of 1.6107 – 1.9962, 2.8454 – 3.3600, 4.3237 – 4.7171 × 10−11m2s−1at drying temperature of 37.5, 45, and 52.5°C. Plasma pretreatment enhances the drying kinetics more effectively with lower activation energy 47.79 kJ mol−1in comparison with 54.82 kJ mol−1for the control group. Atomic force microscopy showed the plasma pretreatment can change the surface topography with some microholes, which explain how the plasma pretreatment can improve the drying process.

Practical Application

The low temperature plasma pretreatment can improve the efficiency of corn kernels drying. Furthermore, it has potential application for reducing energy consumption in drying. The low temperature plasma pretreatment can be potentially applied in commercial drying.
Effects of Fumanet exercise on Korean older adults with mild dementia
Authors: Lee Sun Mi , Joung Jaewon , Shin Sung Hee
Published: July 2019

Aim

This study aimed to examine the effects of Fumanet exercise on cognitive function, walking ability, and depression in older adults with mild dementia.

Methods

A quasi‐experimental pre‐ and post‐test design with a non‐equivalent control group was used. Participants were 45 patients with mild dementia (experimental group = 22, control group = 23). In the experimental group, Fumanet exercise was performed 60 minutes per day, once per week for 8 weeks. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t test, Chi‐square, Fisher's exact test, and two‐way repeated measures analysis of variance.

Results

Gait ability in the experimental group was significantly improved compared with the control group (F = 9.08, P = .004). There were no significant differences in cognitive function or depression between the experimental and control groups. Although the intervention did not show a reduction in depression, participants exhibited a high participation rate and brighter mood with increasing sessions.

Conclusions

It was confirmed that Fumanet exercise is an effective nursing intervention to improve gait ability among older adults with mild dementia.
The use of noncultured regenerative epithelial suspension for improving skin color and scars: A report of 8 cases and review of the literature
Authors: Ren Jie , Liu Jianlan , Yu Nanze , Zhang Wenchao , Qian Hui , Liu Zhifei , Zhu Ningwen
Published: July 2019

Background

Regenerative Epithelial Suspension can lead to the restoration of wound and repigmentation, which can be gained by ReCell medical device to treat scar and depigmentation diseases.

Objectives

To report the effectivity of ReCell combined with microdermabrasion in scar and depigmentation diseases and review the literature of this new technology.

Methods

We gave a differential donor⁄recipient ratio of about 1:20‐30 with vitiligo, 1:40 with postburn construction, 1:80 with acne scar, and 1:120 with adult congenital melanocytic nevus, 1:80 with pediatrics, respectively. Photographs of patients before treatment and 3 months following the last treatment session were used to evaluate the effectivity.

Results

A total of 8 patients including vitiligo vulgaris, postburn reconstruction, acne scars, and congenital melanocytic nevi treated by ReCell technology combined with microdermabrasion showed significant improvement in skin texture and color. And 17 studies of the research on ReCell technology were totally included in the systematic review.

Conclusion

Our investigation showed that Regenerative Epithelial Suspension gained by ReCell technology combined with microdermabrasion may improve scar and depigmentation diseases.
Comparative study of rheological properties and preclinical data of porous polycaprolactone microsphere dermal fillers
Authors: Kim Jin‐Su , In Chang‐Hoon , Park Na‐Jeong , Kim Beom Joon , Yoon Hye‐Sung
Published: July 2019

Background

In this study, a physical properties test and preclinical evaluation were performed on two polycaprolactone (PCL)‐based dermal filler formulas.

Objective

This study was performed to compare the rheological characteristics, preclinical efficacy, and safety of a new PCL filler, SF‐01, with a licensed PCL filler.

Methods

First, the viscoelasticity of the PCL filler was evaluated. Next, hairless mice were injected with fillers and evaluated for efficacy with a folliscope and PRIMOSLITE. Histological evaluation was conducted for 6 months to evaluate safety.

Results

In this evaluation, SF‐01 was superior to a licensed PCL filler in initial volume increase rate and in vivo durability, and the migration of the injected filler was not confirmed. The elasticity (G*, G′) and viscosity (G′′) are also expected to be lower than those of a licensed PCL filler, thereby resulting in less foreign body sensation in the living body.

Conclusion

SF‐01 (porous PCL microsphere–based dermal filler) has been confirmed to be superior in durability and shape retention compared to the licensed PCL filler (nonporous PCL microsphere–based dermal filler), and the in vivo safety is equivalent.
Efficacy of liposome‐encapsulated 4‐n‐butylresorcinol and resveratrol cream in the treatment of melasma
Authors: Kwon Soon‐Hyo , Yang Ji Hoon , Shin Jung‐Won , Park Kyoung‐Chan , Huh Chang‐Hun , Na Jung‐Im
Published: July 2019

Backgrounds

We previously reported the efficacy of 0.1% 4‐n‐butylresorcinol (4nBR) cream in the treatment melasma and synergistic effect of 4nBR and resveratrol (RSV) to inhibit melanogenesis in vitro.

Aims

To evaluate efficacy and safety of a cream which contains liposome‐encapsulated 4nBR and RSV in the treatment of melasma.

Patients/Methods

A total of 21 female patients with melasma were treated with the cream for 4 weeks. At baseline, week 2, and week 4, melanin index (MI) of the lesional and preauricular nonlesional skin was measured and two blinded, independent dermatologists assessed the overall severity by 5‐point scale.

Results

The lesional MI was significantly decreased at weeks 2 and 4 compared with the baseline while no significant change in the nonlesional MI was observed throughout the study. The mean investigator's global assessment score was also significantly improved at weeks 2 and 4. In patient's self‐assessment, 8 (38.1%) and 11 (52.3%) patients answered moderate to significant improvement in their melasma at weeks 2 and 4, respectively. No serious adverse events were reported.

Conclusion

The cream containing liposome‐encapsulated 4nBR and RSV was shown to be effective and safe for the treatment of melasma with its effect appearing as early as 2 weeks.