bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Arterial spin labeling perfusion changes of the frontal lobes in children with posterior fossa syndrome
Authors: Yecies Derek , Shpanskaya Katie , Jabarkheel Rashad , Maleki Maryam , Bruckert Lisa , Cheshier Samuel H. , Hong David , Edwards Michael S. B. , Grant Gerald A. , Yeom Kristen W.
Published: October 2019

OBJECTIVE

Posterior fossa syndrome (PFS) is a common complication following the resection of posterior fossa tumors in children. The pathophysiology of PFS remains incompletely elucidated; however, the wide-ranging symptoms of PFS suggest the possibility of widespread cortical dysfunction. In this study, the authors utilized arterial spin labeling (ASL), an MR perfusion modality that provides quantitative measurements of cerebral blood flow without the use of intravenous contrast, to assess cortical blood flow in patients with PFS.

METHODS

A database of medulloblastoma treated at the authors’ institution from 2004 to 2016 was retrospectively reviewed, and 14 patients with PFS were identified. Immediate postoperative ASL for patients with PFS and medulloblastoma patients who did not develop PFS were compared. Additionally, in patients with PFS, ASL following the return of speech was compared with immediate postoperative ASL.

RESULTS

On immediate postoperative ASL, patients who subsequently developed PFS had statistically significant decreases in right frontal lobe perfusion and a trend toward decreased perfusion in the left frontal lobe compared with controls. Patients with PFS had statistically significant increases in bilateral frontal lobe perfusion after the resolution of symptoms compared with their immediate postoperative imaging findings.

CONCLUSIONS

ASL perfusion imaging identifies decreased frontal lobe blood flow as a strong physiological correlate of PFS that is consistent with the symptomatology of PFS. This is the first study to demonstrate that decreases in frontal lobe perfusion are present in the immediate postoperative period and resolve with the resolution of symptoms, suggesting a physiological explanation for the transient symptoms of PFS.
Feasibility of fast brain diffusion MRI to quantify white matter injury in pediatric hydrocephalus
Authors: Isaacs Albert M. , Shimony Joshua S. , Morales Diego M. , Castaneyra-Ruiz Leandro , Hartman Alexis , Cook Madison , Smyser Christopher D. , Strahle Jennifer , Smyth Matthew D. , Yan Yan , McAllister James P. , McKinstry Robert C. , Limbrick David D.
Published: October 2019

OBJECTIVE

Traditionally, diffusion MRI (dMRI) has been performed in parallel with high-resolution conventional MRI, which requires long scan times and may require sedation or general anesthesia in infants and young children. Conversely, fast brain MRI permits image acquisition without the need for sedation, although its short pulse sequences, susceptibility to motion artifact, and contrast resolution have limited its use to assessing ventricular size or major structural variations. Here, the authors demonstrate the feasibility of leveraging a 3-direction fast brain MRI protocol to obtain reliable dMRI measures.

METHODS

Fast brain MRI with 3-direction dMRI was performed in infants and children before and after hydrocephalus treatment. Regions of interest in the posterior limbs of the internal capsules (PLICs) and the genu of the corpus callosum (gCC) were drawn on diffusion-weighted images, and mean diffusivity (MD) data were extracted. Ventricular size was determined by the frontal occipital horn ratio (FOHR). Differences between and within groups pre- and posttreatment, and FOHR-MD correlations were assessed.

RESULTS

Of 40 patients who met inclusion criteria (median age 27.5 months), 15 (37.5%), 17 (42.5%), and 8 (20.0%) had posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus (PHH), congenital hydrocephalus (CH), or no intracranial abnormality (controls), respectively. A hydrocephalus group included both PHH and CH patients. Prior to treatment, the FOHR (p < 0.001) and PLIC MD (p = 0.027) were greater in the hydrocephalus group than in the controls. While the mean gCC MD in the hydrocephalus group (1.10 × 10−3 mm2/sec) was higher than that of the control group (0.98), the difference was not significant (p = 0.135). Following a median follow-up duration of 14 months, decreases in FOHR, PLIC MD, and gCC MD were observed in the hydrocephalus group and were similar to those in the control group (p = 0.107, p = 0.702, and p = 0.169, respectively). There were no correlations identified between FOHR and MDs at either time point.

CONCLUSIONS

The utility of fast brain MRI can be extended beyond anatomical assessments to obtain dMRI measures. A reduction in PLIC and gCC MD to levels similar to those of controls was observed within 14 months following shunt surgery for hydrocephalus in PHH and CH infants. Further studies are required to assess the role of fast brain dMRI for assessing clinical outcomes in pediatric hydrocephalus patients.
Mature teratoma splitting the brainstem in a newborn: case report
Authors: Pratt Li-tal , Shiran Shelly I. , Precel Ronit , Ben-Sira Liat , Malinger Gustavo , Cagnano Emanuela , Kozyrev Danil A. , Constantini Shlomi , Roth Jonathan
Published: October 2019

Mature teratomas (MTs) of the posterior fossa are extremely rare. The authors present a case of a prenatal diagnosis of an MT splitting the brainstem. Representative images as well as the clinical and surgical course are presented. Literature regarding “split brainstem” and MT of the posterior fossa is discussed.
Faktor Risiko Kejadian Demam Berdarah Dengue (DBD) di Kabupaten Indramayu
Authors: Akbar Hairil , Maulana Syaputra Eko
Published: October 2019

Demam Berdarah Dengue (DBD) merupakan salah satu masalah kesehatan di negara berkembang dan global. Penyakit DBD dikenal juga dengan istilah Dengue Haemoragic Fever (DHF), merupakan penyakit infeksi akut menular kepada manusia melalui perantara gigitan nyamuk Aedes yang mengandung virus dengue. Tujuan penelitian untuk mengetahui faktor risiko kejadian demam berdarah dengue (DBD) di Kabupaten Indramayu. Jenis penelitian ini adalah penelitian observasional analitik dengan menggunakan rancang bangun case control study. Populasi pada penelitian ini seluruh penduduk yang tinggal di Kabupaten Indramayu. Sampel penelitian terdiri dari sampel kasus dan kontrol yang terdiri dari 34 kasus dan 68 kontrol sehingga total keseluruhan sampel sebanyak 102 sampel. Teknik pengambilan sampel dipilih secara simple random sampling. Analisis data menggunakan uji statistik simple logistic regression. Hasil penelitian yaitu praktek 3M di rumah (p=0,020, OR=2,778; 95% CI:1,174-6,574) dan kebiasaan mengantung pakaian (p=0,015, OR=3,470; 95% CI:1,271-9,472) merupakan faktor risiko kejadian demam berdarah dengue (DBD) di Kabupaten Indramayu. Perlunya masyarakat melakukan upaya pencegahan penyakit DBD seperti mempraktekkan 3M di rumah, serta berperilaku hidup bersih dan sehat.
Perbandingan Kadar Eosinofil dan Netrofil Mukosa Hidung pada Pasien Pasca Trakeostomi di Makassar
Authors: Tenri Sanna Andi
Published: October 2019

Trakeostomi adalah tindakan membuat lubang pada dinding anterior trakea untuk mengatasi sumbatan jalan napas.Penelitian ini bertujuan melihat kadar eosinofil dan netrofil mukosa hidung pada pasien pasca trakeostomi di Makassar.  Penelitian ini dilakukan uji klinik pada 14 pasien pasca trakeostomi kurang dari 6 minggu, derajat kesadaran baik (GCS 15), sehingga dapat dilakukan pemeriksaan kerokan hidung. Pemeriksaan kerokan mukosa hidung bertujuan untuk mengetahui adanya sel eosinofil dan netrofil pada sekret mukosa hidung pasien pasca trakeostomi.Data analisis dengan menggunakan uji statistik chi-square. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan terdapat sel-sel inflamasi kerokan mukosa hidung yaitu eosinofil dan netrofil yang meningkat terutama pada minggu ke enam, namun tidak terdapat hubungan yang bermakna secara statistik (p>0,05)
The use of information and communication technology in supervising open and distance learning PhD students
Authors: Zvavahera Promise , Masimba Fine
Published: October 2019

Even though open and distance learning (ODL) using Information and Communication Technologies can be applied across disciplines and at various levels, this paper focuses on the supervision of PhD students studying through the Open and Distance Learning mode of education using Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). Taking into account the fact that higher education institutions are always striving to increase the quality of supervision and throughput of doctoral programmes, the study highlights how Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) can mitigate these challenges. The study was carried out in 10 Zimbabwean universities to evaluate the levels of preparedness of universities, supervisors and PhD students in using information and communication technology during their studies. Purposive sampling was used focusing on PhD students studying through ODL, local universities offering PhD programmes experienced, PhD supervisors, the Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education officials and officials from the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Science and Technology Development. Students, universities and supervisors were not fully prepared to do their work using ICTs due to various reasons. Some of the reasons given were that some universities did not have the required infrastructure and facilities in place. Some of the supervisors and students lacked basic computer skills and this affected the quality of supervision and slowness in giving feedback. The lack of internet availability and poor connectivity were also cited as challenges especially with the prevailing load shedding. The study recommends universities to invest in ICTs infrastructure since higher education transcends geographical boundaries.
College News Vol. 9(3)
Authors: Parvin Rukhsana
Published: October 2019

Abstract not available

J Enam Med Col 2019; 9(3): 200-201
Forsight “Russia”: Future of Technology, Economy and Individual
Authors: Maslov G. A.
Published: October 2019

The article is devoted to review of the fifth St. Petersburg International Economic Congress that was held on April 3, 2019. The topical issues of modern technological transformations, the economic development of Russia and a number of other subjects were discussed in the Congress. Participants have proposed not only new theoretical ideas, but also concrete measures of economic policy that can be implemented in practice.
THEORY OF COLLECTIVE ACTION: RULES TRANSFORMATION
Authors: Skarzhinskaya E. M. , Tzurikov V. I.
Published: October 2019

The authors examine the mathematical modeling of methods for the coordination of collective action in the self-organization and self-governance mode. It is assumed that members of the collective create aggregate income whose value grows, as each member invests more effort. The goal pursued by each member of the collective is to maximize personal gains. As we established in the first part of the study, the lack of universal interpersonal trust prevents members of a uniform (unstructured) collective from overcoming a non-effective, Nash equilibrium outcome. Alternative options for structuring the collective were considered, such as creating small groups (coalitions) of agents sharing mutual trust within each group. The strategy of such coalition, aimed at maximizing coalitional gains rather than personal, leads to greater investment of effort by each coalition member, which in turn produces greater aggregate gains for the entire collective. We have shown that in order to secure stability of a coalition structure, first, stimuli for each coalition member are needed such that imply redistribution of quasi-rent to their benefit, and second, control must be exercised on the efforts of the agents. As models demonstrate, members of the collective left outside coalitions or forming small coalitions with a low share taken together (in aggregate) gains, have weaker stimuli for investment. The potential of increasing such stimuli and thereby increasing aggregate gains may be furnished by another, stronger hierarchic-shaped structure – provided transactional costs are sufficiently low. In order to realize this potential, entitlements to residual income must be concentrated in the hands of a single largest coalition or a number of largest coalitions, while banning all other members of the collective from receiving such income. The income of each agent is defined by the terms of the stimulating contract. We have proposed a general design of such a stimulating contract, creating all prerequisites for achieving equilibrium outcome, with Pareto-dominates equilibrium outcomes for other collective structuring options.
The Roles of Variety-Seeking in The Satisfaction-Destination Intentional Loyalty Relationship: An Empirical Test of Vietnamese Citizens Visits to Beach Cities
Authors: Le Chi Cong , Pham Hong Chuong , Lai Phi Hung
Published: October 2019

This study explores and tests the different and combined roles of variety-seeking in the satisfaction-destination intentional loyalty relationship in order to explain the consumption behaviour of Vietnamese beach visitors. A sample of 812 Vietnamese visitors participated in this study. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was applied in order to test the relationship between the constructs, and to evaluate their reliability and the validity. As expected, the findings highlight the importance of incorporating the roles of variety-seeking in the satisfaction - destination intentional loyalty relationship. Specifically, variety-seeking is found to negatively moderate the direct effect of the visitor satisfaction-loyalty relationship.
Climate Change and Land Use Change of Rural Households in The Red River Delta, Vietnam
Authors: Luu Bich Ngoc
Published: October 2019

Climate change (CC) and its impacts on the socio-economy and the development of communities has become an issue causing very special concern. The rise in global temperatures, in sea levels, extreme weather phenomena, and salinization have occurred more and more and have directly influenced the livelihoods of rural households in the Red River Delta – one of the two regions projected to suffer strongly from climate change in Vietnam. For farming households in this region, the major and traditional livelihoods are based on main production materials as agricultural land, or aquacultural water surface Changes in the land use of rural households in the Red River Delta during recent times was influenced strongly by the Renovation policy in agriculture as well as the process of industrialization and modernization in the country. Climate change over the past 5 years (2005-2011) has started influencing household land use with the concrete manifestations being the reduction of the area cultivated and the changing of the purpose of land use.
Toinen reitti yliopistoon
Authors: Haltia Nina , Lahtomaa Mervi
Published: October 2019

Opiskelijavalintauudistuksen tavoite on saada nuoret sujuvasti opintoihin, mutta tärkeää on turvata tutkintomahdollisuudet myös aikuisille. Toinen reitti yliopistoon -hankkeen työpaketissa kehitetään elinikäisen oppimisen reittiä yliopistojen tutkintokoulutukseen. Saavutettavuus, työelämälähtöisyys ja yhteistyö yliopistojen kesken ovat kehittämisen tärkeitä ulottuvuuksia.
Biogas Production Optimization from POME by Using Anaerobic Digestion Process
Authors: Shakib Nazmus , Rashid Mamunur
Published: October 2019

The aim of this research is to optimize Biogas production from palm oil mill effluent (POME) with organic loading rate (OLR), carbon-to-nitrogen (C / N) ratio and pH using anaerobic processes. This study explores the potential of POME in anaerobic digestion with the perspective to develop a constructive process to treat POME and it can significantly contribute to biogas production. Design of Experiment (DoE) is used to determine the inputs (OLR, C/N, pH) for conducting research to achieve outputs (biogas production). Based on Central Composite Design (CCD), 5 levels of inputs for pH, C/N, and OLR are obtained. The findings of data analysis from Response Surface Methodology (RSM) shows that pH of 6.9, C/N of 30, and OLR of 6 VSS g/L.d have contributed to obtaining 3.8 L/day biogas production from POME. Treating POME anaerobically has proven to be successful because it is value-effective and environmentally friendly. The consequences of the research outcome in terms of environmental pollution are huge. The study suggests implementing a pilot scale study for producing required data is needed in developing economic scale POME treatment plant.
Bioconcentration of Cadmium and Nickel in Mud Clams (Polymesoda expansa) at Sungai Balok, Pahang
Authors: Yaakub Nadzifah , Rohalin Wan marlin , Nordin Radhiah Hani
Published: October 2019

Bioaccumulation of heavy metals in mollusc is one of the crucial topics in environmental pollution, toxicology and food safety as it gives great impact on the ecosystem and human health. This study was conducted to identify the level of Cadmium (Cd) and Nickel (Ni) in the soft tissues of mud clams (Polymesoda expansa) and in water samples at Sungai Balok, Pahang. The mud clams and water samples were collected from five sampling stations in Sungai Balok. Sampling was carried out during dry season (May 2018) and wet season (January 2019). The mud clams’ tissues were digested and  analysed with inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The obtained results revealed that the mean level of Cd and Ni in tissues of mud clams during wet season (0.127±0.104 and 0.909±0.482)mg/kg were higher compared to dry season (0.031±0.014 and 0.245±0.106)mg/kg respectively. Both of Cd and Ni concentrations in the mud clams were found below the limits stated by FAO/WHO (1984), MFA (1983) and FSANZ (2002). There was no significance different (p<0.05) between Cd and Ni in both seasons. Meanwhile, the concentration of Cd in water samples from Balok river during both seasons were the same, which were (0.0001±0.001)mg/kg respectively, whereas for Ni, the concentration in dry and wet season were slightly different with value of 0.0088±0.001mg/kg and in Jan 2019 is 0.0062±0.001ppm. All the water samples from both seasons had Cd and Ni concentrations within Malaysia’s National Water Quality Standard NWQS limits.
Patterns of interaction between social movements and participatory institutions in the Brazilian policy subsystems
Authors: Faria Claudia , Silva Luis Henrique
Published: October 2019

In the post-constitution period, up to 2013, a consensus was established in Brazil about the idea and practice of social participation. The study agenda on the subject was no longer focused on social movements but, rather, on the analysis of the dynamics of civil society and formal arenas of participation that embrace representatives of civil society and state. The shift marked the institutionalist turn in the studies of social participation in Brazil. Large demonstrations against the ongoing austerity policies in Brazil, as in other countries, mark an inflection in this study agenda. Social participation within the participatory institutions has been criticised, and a new turn has emerged. By recognizing those changes, this paper comparatively describes and explains if, how and to what extent different patterns of participation are mixed in order to guarantee social rights in health, housing, and policies for women policy subsystems in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais.
AVALIAÇÃO DE DESEMPENHO E A SUA APLICABILIDADE COMO INSTRUMENTO DE GESTÃO NO SETOR PÚBLICO
Authors: Melazo Juliana Rodrigues , Carvalho João Francisco Sarno , Silva Sheldon William
Published: October 2019

O tema da Avaliação de Desempenho (AD) constitui um assunto relevante no cenário organizacional moderno, dada sua importância no contexto das políticas de administração de recursos humanos, ligadas ao poder público. Esse estudo foi guiado pelo seguinte questionamento: como a avaliação de desempenho, aplicada pelas chefias nesta fundação nos últimos dois anos, foi utilizada como instrumento de gestão? Desse modo, este estudo teve como objetivo analisar a utilização da AD na administração pública do governo do estado de Minas Gerais, em uma das suas fundações. Para galgar o objetivo proposto, foram utilizados dois tipos de questionários direcionados para 10 (dez) chefias atuantes na fundação pesquisada, 180 (cento e oitenta) servidores efetivos, 33 (trinta e três) comissionados avaliados. Nesta etapa buscou-se entender, junto a quem aplica o instrumento de avaliação, qual a percepção de utilidade da ferramenta para a sua gestão e verificar se o instrumento é aplicado de forma satisfatória para essa finalidade. As análises dos dados quantitativos foram realizadas por meio de estatística descritiva. Dos resultados aferidos e das informações geradas, percebe-se que a utilização de metodologias inovadoras não é, de forma isolada, suficiente para garantir a aplicabilidade e a efetividade de qualquer instrumento gerencial. Sugere-se, dessa forma, a realização de práticas de ações de gestão do conhecimento recorrentes sobre a importância do processo em questão e os benefícios alcançados pela sua aplicação de modo correto.
Hierarchical Patch Dynamics Perspective in Farming System Design
Authors: Merot Anne , Belhouchette Hatem
Published: October 2019

Farming systems are complex and include a variety of interacting biophysical and technical components. This complexity must be taken into account when designing farming systems to improve sustainability, but more methods are needed to be able to do so. This article seeks to apply the Hierarchical Patch Dynamics theory (HPD) to farming systems to understand farming system complexity and be better able to support farming system re-design. A six-step framework is proposed to adapt the HPD theory to farming system analysis by taking into account (i) spatial and temporal interactions and (ii) field and management diversity. This framework was applied to a vineyard case study. The result was a hierarchical formalization of the farming system. The HPD framework improved understanding and enabled the formalization of (i) the hierarchical structure of the farming system, (ii) the interactions between structure and processes and (iii) scaling up and down from field to farm scale. HPD theory proved to be successful in analyzing farming system complexity at the farm scale. The framework can help with specific aspects of farming system design, such as how to change the scale of study or determining which scale should be used when choosing indicators for crop management and integrating multi-scale constraints and processes.
Influence of Organic Amendment on Soil Respiration and Maize Productivity in a Semi-Arid Environment
Authors: Lamptey Shirley , Xie Junhong , Li Lingling , Coulter Jeffrey A. , Jagadabhi Padma Shanthi
Published: October 2019

Soil degradation and C emissions are a threat to sustainable agriculture in many arid and semi-arid areas. For sustainable agriculture, the influence of soil amendments on crop production and soil respiration has been a key focus of research. A three-year field study to assess how soil amendments influence soil properties, soil respiration (Rs), and yield of maize (Zea mays L.) was conducted. Treatments were: no amendment (NA), chemical fertilizer (CF), swine (Sus scrofa L.) manure (SM), maize stover (MS), and swine manure + chemical fertilizer (SC). Soil amendment (CF, SM, MS, and SC) consistently produced greatest grain yield and aboveground biomass, which averaged 38 and 34% greater than NA, respectively. No amendment reduced Rs by an average of 12% compared to amendment treatments. Enhanced grain yield with soil amendment resulted in increased carbon emission efficiency (CEE) with SC > MS > CF > SM > NA. Across years, SC decreased soil bulk density by 13% and increased CEE, soil total C, and soil hydraulic conductivity by 52, 19, and 21%, respectively, compared to NA. These results demonstrate the viability of swine manure + chemical fertilizer at 200 kg N ha−1 as a soil amendment for improved CEE and advancing sustainable maize production in semi-arid rainfed environments.
How Can We Assess Positive Welfare in Ruminants?
Authors: Mattiello Silvana , Battini Monica , De Rosa Giuseppe , Napolitano Fabio , Dwyer Cathy
Published: October 2019

Until now, most research has focused on the development of indicators of negative welfare, and relatively few studies provide information on valid, reliable, and feasible indicators addressing positive aspects of animal welfare. However, a lack of suffering does not guarantee that animals are experiencing a positive welfare state. The aim of the present review is to identify promising valid and reliable animal-based indicators for the assessment of positive welfare that might be included in welfare assessment protocols for ruminants, and to discuss them in the light of the five domains model, highlighting possible gaps to be filled by future research. Based on the existing literature in the main databases, each indicator was evaluated in terms of its validity, reliability, and on-farm feasibility. Some valid indicators were identified, but a lot of the validity evidence is based on their absence when a negative situation is present; furthermore, only a few indicators are available in the domains of Nutrition and Health. Reliability has been seldom addressed. On-farm feasibility could be increased by developing specific sampling strategies and/or relying on the use of video- or automatic-recording devices. In conclusion, several indicators are potentially available (e.g., synchronisation of lying and feeding, coat or fleece condition, qualitative behaviour assessment), but further research is required.
Thyroid Cancer after Exposure to Radioiodine in Childhood and Adolescence: 131I-Related Risk and the Role of Selected Host and Environmental Factors
Authors: Zupunski Ljubica , Ostroumova Evgenia , Drozdovitch Vladimir , Veyalkin Ilya , Ivanov Viktor , Yamashita Shunichi , Cardis Elisabeth , Kesminiene Ausrele
Published: October 2019

In this study, we expanded on a previously published population-based case-control study on subjects exposed to iodine-131 (131I) from Chernobyl fallout at age ≤18 years using improved individual 131I absorbed thyroid doses. We further studied the impact of iodine deficiency and other selected host risk factors on 131I-related thyroid cancer risk after childhood exposure. We included 298 thyroid cancer cases and 1934 matched controls from the most contaminated regions of Belarus and the Russian Federation. We performed statistical analysis using conditional logistic regression models. We found a statistically significant linear quadratic dose-effect association between thyroid cancer and 131I thyroid dose in the range up to 5 grays (Gy). Self-reported personal history of benign nodules, any thyroid disease except thyroid cancer, family history of thyroid cancer, increased body mass index, and deficient stable iodine status at the time of the accident were statistically significant risk factors (p < 0.05 for each factor) for thyroid cancer after adjustment for thyroid 131I dose effect. Subjects who received stable iodine supplementation in the years after the accident had a significantly lower 131I-related risk of thyroid cancer. Our findings are important for thyroid cancer prevention, and for further improvement of medical surveillance in the affected populations.
Unraveling the Heterogeneous Mutational Signature of Spontaneously Developing Tumors in MLH1−/− Mice
Authors: Gladbach Yvonne Saara , Wiegele Leonie , Hamed Mohamed , Merkenschläger Anna-Marie , Fuellen Georg , Junghanss Christian , Maletzki Claudia
Published: October 2019

Mismatch repair deficient (MMR-D) tumors exemplify the prototypic hypermutator phenotype. Owing to the high mutation rates, plenty of neo-antigens are present on the tumor cells’ surface, ideally shared among different cancer types. The MLH1 knock out mouse represents a preclinical model that resembles features of the human MMR-D counterpart. While these mice develop neoplasias in a sequential twin-peaked manner (lymphomas > gastrointestinal tumors (GIT)) we aimed at identification of underlying molecular mechanisms. Using whole-genome sequencing, we focused on (I) shared and (II) mutually exclusive mutations and describe the process of ongoing mutational events in tumor-derived cell cultures. The landscape of MLH1−/− tumors is heterogeneous with only a few shared mutations being detectable among different tumor entities (ARID1A and IDH2). With respect to coding microsatellite analysis of MMR-D-related target genes, partial overlap was detectable, yet recognizing shared antigens. The present study is the first reporting results of a comparison between spontaneously developing tumors in MMR-D driven tumorigenesis. Additionally to identifying ARID1A as potential causative mutation hotspot, this comprehensive characterization of the mutational landscape may be a good starting point to refine therapeutic concepts.
Pathophysiology of Atopic Dermatitis and Psoriasis: Implications for Management in Children
Authors: Chovatiya Raj , Silverberg Jonathan I.
Published: October 2019

Atopic dermatitis (AD) and psoriasis are chronic inflammatory skin diseases associated with a significant cutaneous and systemic burden of disease as well as a poor health-related quality of life. Here, we review the complex pathophysiology of both AD and psoriasis and discuss the implications for treatment with current state-of-the-art and emerging topical and systemic therapies. Both AD and psoriasis are caused by a complex combination of immune dysregulation, skin-barrier disruption, genetic factors, and environmental influences. Previous treatments for both diseases were limited to anti-inflammatory agents that broadly suppress inflammation. Emerging insights into relevant pathways, including recognition of the role of T-helper type 2 driven inflammation in AD and T-helper 1 and 17 driven inflammation in psoriasis, have led to a therapeutic revolution. There are a number of novel treatment options available for AD and psoriasis with many more currently under investigation.
Aggregate-Bitumen Interface Enhancement Mechanism of Utilization of Oil Shale Waste as Fine Aggregate in Open Grade Friction Course
Authors: Guo Wei , Guo Xuedong , Chen Xing , Li Yingsong , Li Zhun , Dai Wenting
Published: October 2019

Oil shale waste (OSW), as fine aggregate in the mixture (particle size less than 4.75 mm), can effectively improve the overall properties of open grade friction course (OGFC), but the reinforcement mechanism is not clear. Thus, a comprehensive investigation of the reinforcement mechanism of OSW as fine aggregate is essential to provide better understanding for promoting its engineering application. In this paper, the reinforcement mechanism of OSW was explored through numerical calculations and laboratory tests from three aspects: macroscopic mechanical characteristics of mixture, micromechanics of asphalt mortar containing OSW filler, and adsorption characteristics of OSW. Numerical simulation results showed that the aggregate with a particle size greater than 4.75 mm in OGFC is the skeleton, which is the main loading bearing aggregate, and the skeleton bears more than 85% of external loads. The beam bending test and indirect tensile test results illustrated that the introduction of OSW improves the shear resistance and flexure-tension resistance properties of asphalt mortar, which is beneficial the overall properties of OGFC. From the Brunauer Emmett Tell test and Scanning Electron Microscope test, it was known that OSW has large specific surface area, dense pore structure, and various mesoporous shapes, which means a larger adsorption area and stronger adsorption with asphalt binder. Three self-developed tests containing asphalt adsorption capacity test, infiltrated asphalt saturation test and aggregate-bitumen interface observation test manifested that the existence of “claws”-pointed synapses at OSW-bitumen interface is the main reason for the significant improvement of properties of asphalt mortar containing OSW filler.
Broadband Solar Energy Absorption in Plasmonic Thin-Film Amorphous Silicon Solar Cell
Authors: Khan Aimal Daud , Rehman Qandeel , Khan Adnan Daud , Subhan Fazal E. , Noman Muhammad , Ahmed Salman , Khan Haseeb Ahmad
Published: October 2019

Improving the light absorption in thin-film solar cell is essential for enhancing efficiency and reducing cost. Here, we propose an ultra-broadband amorphous silicon solar cell based on a periodic array of titanium ring-shaped metasurfaces, which achieves more than 90% absorptance in the visible range of the solar spectrum. The surface plasmon resonance supported by the nanoparticles together with the resonance induced by the metal–insulator–metal Fabry–Perot cavity leads to this broadband absorption. The impact of various materials of functional layers and the geometric structure of the nanoparticle on absorption performance is discussed in detail, and super broadband resonance is achieved after optimization. Moreover, the optimized solar cell is tested for different solar incidence angles and it is found that the structure exhibits high absorption efficiency even at large angles. Thus, the proposed solar cell design may be beneficial for most of the photovoltaic applications.
Wettability Control for Correct Thermophysical Properties Determination of Molten Salts and Their Nanofluids
Authors: Grosu Yaroslav , González-Fernández Luis , Nithiyanantham Udayashankar , Faik Abdessamad
Published: October 2019

Proper recording of thermophysical properties for molten salts (MSs) and molten salts based nanofluids (MSBNs) is of paramount importance for the thermal energy storage (TES) technology at concentrated solar power (CSP) plants. However, it is recognized by scientific and industrial communities to be non-trivial, because of molten salts creeping (scaling) inside a measuring crucible or a sample container. Here two strategies are proposed to solve the creeping problem of MSs and MSBNs for the benefit of such techniques as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and laser flash apparatus (LFA). The first strategy is the use of crucibles with rough inner surface. It was found that only nanoscale roughness solves the creeping problem, while micron-scale roughness does not affect the wetting phenomena considerably. The second strategy is the use of crucible made of or coated with a low-surface energy material. Both strategies resulted in contact angle of molten salt higher than 90° and as a result, repeatable measurements in correspondence to the literature data. The proposed methods can be used for other characterization techniques where the creeping of molten salts brings the uncertainty or/and unrepeatability of the measurements.
Impact of Zirconium on Freshwater Periphytic Microorganisms
Authors: Caroline Doose , Soizic Morin , Jacky Vedrenne , Claude Fortin
Published: October 2019

The majority of studies on biofilms have focused on autotrophic and bacterial taxa, without considering the potential effects on biofilm grazers. In this work, we investigated the effects of realistic environmental concentrations of zirconium (Zr) on periphyton algal growth and micromeiofauna biodiversity. Glass slides were submerged in a pond for four weeks to colonize biofilms and exposed for four weeks in aquaria to targeted Zr concentrations of 0, 1, and 10 nM, which were monitored over time (average measured concentrations were 0.2 ± 0.1, 0.5 ± 0.3, and 2.9 ± 0.3 nM Zr). The four-week exposure to the highest concentration (3 nM) affected the micromeiofauna structure of biofilms and modified the autotrophic biofilm structure by increasing the proportion of green algae and decreasing the abundance of cyanobacteria and brown algae. Rotifers and the ciliate Aspidisca cicada appeared to be the most sensitive organisms among the observed micromeiofauna. A toxic effect of Zr on rotifers could explain such results. Indirect effects, such as reduced food availability given the reduced algal growth in the presence of Zr, could also play a role in the changes of micromeiofauna community structure. These results are among the few published data on the effects of Zr.
DNA Methylation Markers for Pan-Cancer Prediction by Deep Learning
Authors: Liu Biao , Liu Yulu , Pan Xingxin , Li Mengyao , Yang Shuang , Li Shuai Cheng
Published: October 2019

For cancer diagnosis, many DNA methylation markers have been identified. However, few studies have tried to identify DNA methylation markers to diagnose diverse cancer types simultaneously, i.e., pan-cancers. In this study, we tried to identify DNA methylation markers to differentiate cancer samples from the respective normal samples in pan-cancers. We collected whole genome methylation data of 27 cancer types containing 10,140 cancer samples and 3386 normal samples, and divided all samples into five data sets, including one training data set, one validation data set and three test data sets. We applied machine learning to identify DNA methylation markers, and specifically, we constructed diagnostic prediction models by deep learning. We identified two categories of markers: 12 CpG markers and 13 promoter markers. Three of 12 CpG markers and four of 13 promoter markers locate at cancer-related genes. With the CpG markers, our model achieved an average sensitivity and specificity on test data sets as 92.8% and 90.1%, respectively. For promoter markers, the average sensitivity and specificity on test data sets were 89.8% and 81.1%, respectively. Furthermore, in cell-free DNA methylation data of 163 prostate cancer samples, the CpG markers achieved the sensitivity as 100%, and the promoter markers achieved 92%. For both marker types, the specificity of normal whole blood was 100%. To conclude, we identified methylation markers to diagnose pan-cancers, which might be applied to liquid biopsy of cancers.
Promoting OPD Patient Satisfaction through Different Healthcare Determinants: A Study of Public Sector Hospitals
Authors: Hussain Abid , Asif Muhammad , Jameel Arif , Hwang Jinsoo , Sahito Noman , Kanwel Shahida
Published: October 2019

Patient satisfaction is a core tool for measuring the performance of the hospitals as well as the service provider and the services that they are providing to the patients. The aim of this research is to evaluate how information received, medical equipment, distance from the hospital, and physical infrastructure influenced patient satisfaction at public hospitals in Southern Punjab, Pakistan. An exploratory research technique was used. We distributed 700 questionnaires through a random method, and 579 provided proper responses. A confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and a regression analysis were used for the data analysis. The study results illustrated that medical equipment, information received, distance from the hospital, and physical infrastructure had significantly positive impacts (p = 0.001) on patient satisfaction. To promote higher level of satisfaction, there is a need to take appropriate steps for improvement.
Determinants of Decoupling Economic Output from Carbon Emission in the Transport Sector: A Comparison Study of Four Municipalities in China
Authors: Wang Qiang , Wang Shasha , Li Rongrong
Published: October 2019

Quantitative analysis on decoupling between economic output, carbon emission, and the driving factors behind decoupling states can serve to make the economy grow without increasing carbon emission in China’s transport sector. In this work, we investigate the decoupling states and driving factors of decoupling states in the transport sector of China’s four municipalities (Beijing, Shanghai, Tianjin, and Chongqing) through combining the Tapio decoupling approach with the decomposition technique. The results show that (i) the decoupling state of Beijing, Shanghai, and Tianjin improved; Beijing stabilized in weak decoupling; Shanghai and Tianjin appeared to have strong decoupling, but the decoupling state of Chongqing deteriorated from decoupling to negative decoupling. (ii) The energy-saving effect was the primary contributor to decoupling in these four municipalities, promoting transport’s economic growth strongly decouple from carbon emission. The economic scale effect was not optimized enough in Chongqing, facilitating expansive coupling, and expansive negative decoupling emerged. But it had a rather positive impact on decoupling process in Beijing, Shanghai and Tianjin, promoting economic growth to weakly decouple from carbon emission. (iii) The carbon-reduction effect promoted strong decoupling, which emerged in Shanghai’s transport sector, more so than in the other three municipalities, in which weak decoupling emerged. Finally, several relevant policy recommendations were offered to promote the decoupling of carbon emission from economic growth and low-carbon transport.
Comment on: “Wnt Binding Affinity Prediction for Putative Frizzled-Type Cysteine-Rich Domains”
Authors: Musso Orlando
Published: October 2019

Dear Editor, [...]
The Systemic–Evolutionary Theory of the Origin of Cancer (SETOC): A New Interpretative Model of Cancer as a Complex Biological System
Authors: Mazzocca Antonio
Published: October 2019

The Systemic–Evolutionary Theory of Cancer (SETOC) is a recently proposed theory based on two important concepts: (i) Evolution, understood as a process of cooperation and symbiosis (Margulian-like), and (ii) The system, in terms of the integration of the various cellular components, so that the whole is greater than the sum of the parts, as in any complex system. The SETOC posits that cancer is generated by the de-emergence of the “eukaryotic cell system” and by the re-emergence of cellular subsystems such as archaea-like (genetic information) and/or prokaryotic-like (mitochondria) subsystems, featuring uncoordinated behaviors. One of the consequences is a sort of “cellular regression” towards ancestral or atavistic biological functions or behaviors similar to those of protists or unicellular organisms in general. This de-emergence is caused by the progressive breakdown of the endosymbiotic cellular subsystem integration (mainly, information = nucleus and energy = mitochondria) as a consequence of long-term injuries. Known cancer-promoting factors, including inflammation, chronic fibrosis, and chronic degenerative processes, cause prolonged damage that leads to the breakdown or failure of this form of integration/endosymbiosis. In normal cells, the cellular “subsystems” must be fully integrated in order to maintain the differentiated state, and this integration is ensured by a constant energy intake. In contrast, when organ or tissue damage occurs, the constant energy intake declines, leading, over time, to energy shortage, failure of endosymbiosis, and the de-differentiated state observed in dysplasia and cancer.
Physical Mapping of Stem Rust Resistance Gene Sr52 from Dasypyrum villosum Based on ph1b-Induced Homoeologous Recombination
Authors: Li Huanhuan , Dong Zhenjie , Ma Chao , Tian Xiubin , Qi Zengjun , Wu Nan , Friebe Bernd , Xiang Zhiguo , Xia Qing , Liu Wenxuan , Li Tianya
Published: October 2019

Wheat stem rust caused by Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici (Pgt) had been a devastating foliar disease worldwide during the 20th century. With the emergence of Ug99 races, which are virulent to most stem rust resistance genes deployed in wheat varieties and advanced lines, stem rust has once again become a disease threatening global wheat production. Sr52, derived from Dasypyrum villosum and mapped to the long arm of 6V#3, is one of the few effective genes against Ug99 races. In this study, the wheat–D. villosum Robertsonian translocation T6AS·6V#3L, the only stock carrying Sr52 released to experimental and breeding programs so far, was crossed with a CS ph1b mutant to induce recombinants with shortened 6V#3L chromosome segments locating Sr52. Six independent homozygous recombinants with different segment sizes and breakpoints were developed and characterized using in situ hybridization and molecular markers analyses. Stem rust resistance evaluation showed that only three terminal recombinants (1381, 1380, and 1392) containing 8%, 22%, and 30% of the distal segment of 6V#3L, respectively, were resistant to stem rust. Thus, the gene Sr52 was mapped into 6V#3L bin FL 0.92–1.00. In addition, three molecular markers in the Sr52-located interval of 6V#3L were confirmed to be diagnostic markers for selection of Sr52 introgressed into common wheat. The newly developed small segment translocation lines with Sr52 and the identified molecular markers closely linked to Sr52 will be valuable for wheat disease breeding.
Extracellular Matrix Remodeling of Adipose Tissue in Obesity and Metabolic Diseases
Authors: Ruiz-Ojeda Francisco Javier , Méndez-Gutiérrez Andrea , Aguilera Concepción María , Plaza-Díaz Julio
Published: October 2019

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a network of different proteins and proteoglycans that controls differentiation, migration, repair, survival, and development, and it seems that its remodeling is required for healthy adipose tissue expansion. Obesity drives an excessive lipid accumulation in adipocytes, which provokes immune cells infiltration, fibrosis (an excess of deposition of ECM components such as collagens, elastin, and fibronectin) and inflammation, considered a consequence of local hypoxia, and ultimately insulin resistance. To understand the mechanism of this process is a challenge to treat the metabolic diseases. This review is focused at identifying the putative role of ECM in adipose tissue, describing its structure and components, its main tissue receptors, and how it is affected in obesity, and subsequently the importance of an appropriate ECM remodeling in adipose tissue expansion to prevent metabolic diseases.
Temporal Effects of Quercetin on Tight Junction Barrier Properties and Claudin Expression and Localization in MDCK II Cells
Authors: Gamero-Estevez Enrique , Andonian Sero , Jean-Claude Bertrand , Gupta Indra , Ryan Aimee K.
Published: October 2019

Kidney stones affect 10% of the population. Yet, there is relatively little known about how they form or how to prevent and treat them. The claudin family of tight junction proteins has been linked to the formation of kidney stones. The flavonoid quercetin has been shown to prevent kidney stone formation and to modify claudin expression in different models. Here we investigate the effect of quercetin on claudin expression and localization in MDCK II cells, a cation-selective cell line, derived from the proximal tubule. For this study, we focused our analyses on claudin family members that confer different tight junction properties: barrier-sealing (Cldn1, -3, and -7), cation-selective (Cldn2) or anion-selective (Cldn4). Our data revealed that quercetin’s effects on the expression and localization of different claudins over time corresponded with changes in transepithelial resistance, which was measured continuously throughout the treatment. In addition, these effects appear to be independent of PI3K/AKT signaling, one of the pathways that is known to act downstream of quercetin. In conclusion, our data suggest that quercetin’s effects on claudins result in a tighter epithelial barrier, which may reduce the reabsorption of sodium, calcium and water, thereby preventing the formation of a kidney stone.