bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tuberculosis Incidence Among Populations at High Risk in California, Florida, New York, and Texas, 2011–2015
Authors: Cherng Sarah T. , Shrestha Sourya , Reynolds Sue , Hill Andrew N. , Marks Suzanne M. , Kelly Jane , Dowdy David W.
Published: November 2018

Objectives. To illustrate the magnitude of between-state heterogeneities in tuberculosis (TB) incidence among US populations at high risk for TB that may help guide state-specific strategies for TB elimination.

Methods. We used data from the National Tuberculosis Surveillance System and other public sources from 2011 to 2015 to calculate TB incidence in every US state among people who were non–US-born, had diabetes, or were HIV-positive, homeless, or incarcerated. We then estimated the proportion of TB cases that reflected the difference between each state’s reported risk factor–specific TB incidence and the lowest incidence achieved among 4 states (California, Florida, New York, Texas). We reported these differences for the 4 states and also calculated and aggregated across all 50 states to quantify the total percentage of TB cases nationally that reflected between-state differences in risk factor–specific TB incidence.

Results. On average, 24% of recent TB incidence among high-risk US populations reflected heterogeneity at the state level. The populations that accounted for the greatest percentage of heterogeneity-reflective cases were non–US-born individuals (51%) and patients with diabetes (24%).

Conclusions. State-level differences in TB incidence among key populations provide clues for targeting state-level interventions.
Disparities in Hepatitis B Virus Infection and Immunity Among New York City Asian American Patients, 1997 to 2017
Authors: Tang Amy S. , Lyu Janice , Wang Su , He Qingqing , Pong Perry , Harris Aaron M.
Published: November 2018

Objectives. To measure disparities in hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and immunity among a high-risk patient population at a community health center in New York City.

Methods. We performed a retrospective chart review of 25 565 adults with HBV surface antigen, surface antibody, and total core antibody tests from 1997 to 2017. We categorized HBV test results by infection and immunity status and analyzed by demographic characteristics with χ2 and logistic regression analysis.

Results. Of 25 565 adults, 13.4% were currently infected, 52.1% were ever infected, 33.4% were immune from vaccination, and 14.5% were susceptible. Significant factors associated with ever infection were age, male sex, being China-born, limited English proficiency, having Medicaid or no insurance, and family history of HBV (P < .01).

Conclusions. Our study demonstrated a high burden of HBV infection among foreign-born Asian Americans seeking care at a community health center.

Public Health Implications. It is important to test patients at high risk for HBV infection with all 3 tests to identify those with current infection, risk for reactivation, or need for vaccination, and to assess the effectiveness of public health interventions.
Using Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity to Monitor Disparities in HIV, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis
Authors: Shover Chelsea L. , DeVost Michelle A. , Beymer Matthew R. , Gorbach Pamina M. , Flynn Risa P. , Bolan Robert K.
Published: November 2018

Objectives. To quantify sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) disparities in incidence of HIV, other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and viral hepatitis.

Methods. We performed a records-based study of 19 933 patients visiting a federally qualified health center in Los Angeles, California, between November 2016 and October 2017 that examined HIV, STIs, and viral hepatitis incidence proportions. We created multivariable logistic regression models to examine the association between incidence proportions and SOGI among people living with HIV and HIV-negative patients.

Results. Among those who were HIV-negative at baseline (n = 16 757), 29% tested positive for any STI during the study period, compared with 38% of people living with HIV. Stratified by birth sex, STI positivity was 32% among men and 11% among women. By SOGI, STI positivity was 35% among gay and bisexual cisgender men, 15% among heterosexual cisgender men, 11% among cisgender women, 25% among transgender women, 13% among gay and bisexual transgender men, 3% among heterosexual transgender men, and 26% among nonbinary people.

Conclusions. Stratifying by SOGI highlighted disparities that are obscured when stratifying by birth sex.

Public Health Implications. To monitor and reduce disparities, health jurisdictions should include SOGI data with infectious disease reporting.
Intravitreal Dexamethasone Implants versus Intravitreal Anti-VEGF Treatment in Treating Patients with Retinal Vein Occlusion: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Shi Qian , Gao Lixiong , Zhou Lijun , Tian Chunyu , Li Na , Shao Weiyang , Peng Xiujun
Published: November 2018

Background: Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is a common retinal venous disorder that causes vision loss. No specific therapy has been developed. Controversy exists regarding two treatments: intravitreal dexamethasone implants and anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). The goal of this study is to compare the effectiveness and safety of dexamethasone implants and anti-VEGF treatment for RVO.
Methods: The PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for studies comparing dexamethasone implants with anti-VEGF in patients with RVO. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central subfield thickness (CST), intraocular pressure changes, conjunctival haemorrhage, reduced VA, and macular oedema were extracted from the final included studies. RevMan 5.3 was used to conduct the quantitative analysis and bias assessment.
Results: Four articles assessing 969 eyes were included. The anti-VEGF treatment showed better BCVA improvement (mean difference [MD] = -10.59, P < 0.00001) and more CST decrease (MD = -86.71 μm, P = 0.02) than the dexamethasone implants. However, the dexamethasone implants required fewer injections. As for adverse effects, the dexamethasone implants showed significantly higher intraocular pressure (IOP) and more cataracts than the anti-VEGF treatment. No significant differences were found in conjunctival haemorrhage, reduced VA, and macular oedema.
Conclusions: Anti-VEGF treatment showed better functional and anatomical improvement with less risk of IOP elevation and cataract formation compared to dexamethasone implants. Thus, anti-VEGF treatment is the first choice for treating RVO patients.

Keywords: dexamethasone intravitreal implant, anti-VEGF treatment, retinal vein occlusion, meta-analysis
DIFFICULTIES IN DIFFERENTIATED DIAGNOSIS OF LUNG CANCER AND INFLAMMATORY CHANGES IN LUNG TISSUE
Authors: Grigorievskaya Z. V. , Utkina V. L. , Byakhova V. А. , Petukhova I. N. , Bagirova N. S. , Tereshchenko I. V. , Dmitrieva A. I. , Grigorievsky E. D. , Dmitrieva N. V.
Published: November 2018

The differential diagnosis of pulmonary diseases is extremely difficult and requires high qualifications of the radiologist and clinician. The differential diagnosis is used to distinguish different lung diseases: nonspecific inflammatory lung diseases (empyema, abscess, pneumonia), tuberculosis, sarcoidosis, benign tumors, lung cancer, lymphogranulomatosis, metastatic changes, and inflammatory changes in lung tissue. We present a clinical case, in which the differential diagnosis between tumor and inflammatory changes in lung tissue allowed the choice of optimal treatment tactics.
THE VALUE OF PROGNOSTIC FACTORS FOR GLIOBLASTOMA TREATED WITH CONCURRENT THERMOCHEMORADIOTHERAPY
Authors: Ryabova A. I. , Novikov V. A. , Gribova O. V. , Startseva Zh. A. , Grigoriev E. G. , Glushchenko S. A. , Ponomaryova A. A. , Sirkashev V. A.
Published: November 2018

The treatment of patients with glioblastoma continues to be one of the greatest challenges. Glioblastoma is the most aggressive malignant primary brain tumor and is the most lethal among all cancers. Despite advances in the standard treatment, the prognosis for patients with glioblastoma remains poor, therefore, the development of novel treatment strategies is required.

Material and methods.Our study included 30 patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma, who underwent concurrent chemoradiotherapy and local hyperthermia.

Results.The median disease-free and overall survival rates were 9.6 months and 23 months, respectively. The analysis of clinical, molecular-genetic and prognostic factors related to treatment modality showed statistically significant differences in survival between patient groups representing different times for starting adjuvant therapy after surgery. The median disease-free survival was significantly higher in patients who received chemoradiotherapy with local hyperthermia within 6 weeks after surgery than in patients who started adjuvant treatment earlier. The overall survival rate was statistically higher in patients receiving a special treatment for tumor recurrence compared to that in patients receiving symptomatic therapy. The evaluation of molecular-genetic prognostic factors showed no statistically significant differences in survival among patients with methylated and nonmethylated MGMT promoter. The presence of IDH1 mutations was identified in only one case. Evaluation of prognostic factors does not allow identification of clinical and molecular biological factors that group patients with hypersensitivity to the proposed treatment regimen. However, high rates of overall and disease-free survival, even in patients with non-methylated MGMT, allow us to recommend this treatment modality for patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma.
Carcinoembryonic antigen BEFORE AND AFTER neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy IN PREDICTION OF pathological complete response in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer
Authors: Severskaya N. V. , Erygin D. V. , Aleksandrov Yu. V. , Minaeva N. G. , Dvinskikh N. Yu. , Novikov N. Yu.
Published: November 2018

Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is widely used to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment in patients with rectal cancer.

The aim of the studywas to investigate whether the CEA levels measured before and after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) can be used to predict pathological complete response (pCR) in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer.

Material and methods.179 patients with locally advanced rectal cancer were treated with nCRT followed by surgical treatment. The serum CEA level was measured before and 610 weeks after the completion of nCRT. Preand post nCRT CEA levels were compared with pCR. The factors associated with pCR were studied.

Results.pCR after nCRT was achieved in 12 % (22/179) patients. The incidence of pCR was higher in patients with normal (<5 ng/mL) pre-treatment CEA level (20 %vs8 %, p=0.019). In patients with the elevated pre-treatment CEA level (> 5 ng/mL), there were no significant differences in the incidence of pCR between cases with normalization and without normalization of CEA level after treatment (p=0.08). The maximum likelihood of pCR determined by the ROC curve was <2.8 ng/mL with pre-treatment CEA (31 %) and <1.8 ng/mL with post-treatment CEA (23 %). Well differentiated tumors (G1) had higher likelihood of pCR (46%) in patients with low pre-treatment CEA (<2.8 ng/mL).

Conclusion.Low CEA before and after nCRT is a predictor of pCR. Well differentiated tumors increase the probability of pCR after nCRT.
RISK FACTORS FOR RENAL CELL CARCINOMA
Authors: Zaridze D. G. , Mukeria A. F. , Shangina O. V.
Published: November 2018

Smoking, overweight, obesity, hypertension, occupational exposures to pesticides, specifically to trichloroethylene are considered causal risk factors for sporadic i.e. non-hereditary renal cell cancer (RCC). Some of these factors not only increase the risk of RCC but also affect the survival of patients. For example, in patients with RCC who continue smoking, the risk of dying from other causes is twice as high as in patient who quit smoking. The risk of second cancer is 5 times higher in patients who continue smoking 20 or more cigarettes per day than in non-smokers. The low penetrance polymorphism is an important factor in etiology of sporadic RCC, which contrary to high penetrance mutations is a common event. However, the risk associated with this type of inheritance is quite low. The majority of sporadic RCC have polygenic etiology. They develop as a result of combined effect of large number of low penetrance genetic susceptibility genes (genetic polymorphism). Environmental factors play a decisive role in causation of sporadic RCC. The interplay of exposures to environmental risk factors and genetic susceptibility of exposed individuals is believed to influence the risk of developing sporadic RCC. The studies in molecular epidemiology based on candidate gene approach have shown that polymorphisms of certain genes, for example glutathione-S-transferase family genes, are associated with RCC. The genome wide association studies identified about twenty loci with single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) affecting the risk of RCC. However the risk loci so far identified for RCC account for only about 10 % of the familial risk of RCC. The power of largest studies which include many thousands of observations allow to detect 80 % of the major common loci (with minor allele frequency – MAF>0.2) conferring risk ≥1.2. However, for detecting alleles with smaller effects and/or MAF<0.1, more studies with larger sample size are needed. By implication, variants with such profiles probably represent a much larger class of susceptibility loci for RCC and hence a large number of variants remain to be discovered. Future investigation of the genes targeted by the risk SNPs is likely to yield increased insight into biology of RCC and will lead to new approaches for prevention, early detection and treatment.
What We Talk about When We Talk about Soil Health
Authors: Stewart Ryan D. , Jian Jinshi , Gyawali Ayush J. , Thomason Wade E. , Badgley Brian D. , Reiter Mark S. , Strickland Michael S.
Published: November 2018

Core Ideas

Despite nationwide emphasis on soil health in the USA, current measurements lack consistency.

A meta‐analysis showed 8 of 42 soil health indicators reported >20% of time.

Only 13 indicators showed short‐term (1–3 yr timescale) responses to cover cropping.

Wide variation in soil sampling protocols suggests standardization is needed.

Translating soil health research across systems requires a common framework.

Despite a nationwide emphasis on improving soil health in the United States, current measurement protocols have little consistency. To survey assessment practices, we conducted a meta‐analysis of cover crop (n = 86) and no‐tillage (n = 106) studies and compiled reported indicators, cropping systems, and soil sampling protocols from each. We then analyzed which indicators significantly responded to cover crop usage after 1 yr and 2 to 3 yr. Our results showed that out of 42 indicators, only 8 were reported in >20% of studies. Thirteen indicators showed >10% relative response after 1 to 3 yr; the remainder lacked either sufficient observations or consistent results. Looking forward, we propose that emphasis should be placed on (i) pursuing dynamic indicators (e.g., aggregate stability), (ii) standardizing sampling protocols, and (iii) developing a common framework for information sharing. These efforts will generate new insight into soil health across systems, ultimately ensuring that soil health science is useful to producers and regulators.
Genetic Diversity of Sour Passion Fruit Revealed by Predicted Genetic Values
Authors: Rosado Renato D. S. , Rosado Luciana D. S. , Borges Leandro L. , Bruckner Claúdio H. , Cruz Cosme D. , dos Santos Carlos E. M.
Published: November 2018

Core Ideas

The sporophytic homomorphic self‐incompatibility system advanced the greatest diversity within populations.

The phenotypic correlation network facilitates rapid observation of the relationships among groups of variables related to vegetative vigor, incidence of leaf diseases, and physicochemical properties of passion fruit.

The correlation networks associated with the relative contribution of the variable can help in the selection of important variables.

Sour passion fruit (Passiflora edulis Sims) is a highly suitable crop for small farmers because of its high market value and short time to maturity. However, passion fruit breeding programs need to provide cultivars to producers with quality, disease resistance, and production improvements. The objective of this study was to assess the genetic diversity among and within improved populations of sour passion fruit (SPF) using predicted genetic values, select the most divergent accessions, and evaluate the relationships among groups of traits of vegetative vigor, incidence of leaf diseases, and physicochemical properties of fruits. Twenty‐three genotypes were selected and divided into five populations with variable numbers of accessions. Phenotypic data were transformed into genotypic values using mixed model restricted maximum likelihood‐best linear unbiased prediction. We tested the hypothesis that there is differentiation among populations and between their components and the accessions. Graphic dispersion of the genotypes around the centroids of five populations was performed. The Tocher method was used to group the accessions. The relative importance of the variables and correlation networks was evaluated. Populations showed genetic variability; the hybrid combinations involving the population I accessions 1 (B1 29 PL1), 2 (B1 41 PL3), 4 (B2 9 PL 3), 5 (B2 37 PL3), 10 (G1 B1 9), and 19 (BRS GA1) can be exploited in breeding programs to improve the quality of SPF. The correlation network facilitates the observation of the relationships among groups of traits and helps in the selection of variables when associated with the relative contribution.
Impact of Melaleuca quinquenervia Biochar on Phaseolus vulgaris Growth, Soil Nutrients, and Microbial Gas Flux
Authors: Velez Thelma I. , Moonilall Nall I. , Reed Stewart , Jayachandran Krishnaswamy , Scinto Leonard J.
Published: November 2018

Biochar has been heralded for improving soil quality, sequestering C, and converting organic residues into value‐added amendments. Biochar research in agricultural settings has been primarily conducted on acidic soils, with few studies evaluating biochar effects on alkaline soils. Given the rise of small‐scale, sustainable farmers experimenting with biochar in South Florida's alkaline, carbonaceous soil, this study sought to assess biochar use in South Florida using an invasive plant species as a feedstock. Melaleuca quinquenervia (Cav.) S.T. Blake biomass was converted into biochar to measure how application at two rates, 2 and 5% (w/w), affects plant growth, soil macro‐ and micronutrients, and microbial gas flux (CO2) in a potted greenhouse experiment using Phaseolus vulgaris L. Plant growth was inhibited with biochar addition at the 2 and 5% rates. Dry shoot, pod weight, and pod length decreased significantly between treatments (P < 0.001). Significant reductions in plant‐available P, Ca, Mg, Cu, and Zn were observed in the 5% biochar soil postharvest (P < 0.05). Compared with the control, addition of biochar at 2 and 5% rates significantly reduced CO2 flux during the growing season, but not at harvest (P < 0.01). Our results indicate that those considering biochar application in South Florida's alkaline soil should be cautious in selecting feedstock and temperature for biochar production. Biochar can be produced at lower temperatures to decrease pH, but the concomitant increase in volatile matter (VM) is of concern. Although CO2 flux may have decreased, the deleterious impacts of M. quinquenervia biochar (pH = 8.12, VM = 26.5%) on P. vulgaris production should not be dismissed.

Core Ideas

South Florida invasive Melaleuca quinquenervia was used to make biochar.

Increasing rates of M. quinquenervia biochar reduced bean growth in calcareous soil.

A 5% (w/w) rate of M. quinquenervia biochar reduced available nutrients in soil.

Melaleuca quinquenervia biochar addition reduced soil respiration compared with the control.
BASKI FESHİNE İLİŞKİN ALMAN FEDERAL İŞ MAHKEMESİ KARARININ İNCELENMESİ
Authors: KAYIK AYDINALP Aslıhan
Published: November 2018

Baskı feshi işveren tarafından belirli bir işçinin işten çıkarılmasının, üçüncü kişiler, müşteriler, distribütörler, işverenin diğer çalışanları, işçi temsilcisi, bankalar, işyerini devralacak işveren ya da devlet kurumları tarafından hukuki ya da iktisadi zarar (örneğin; ilgili işçi ile beraber çalışmaktan kaçınma, fesih, grev ya da siparişlerin iptali gibi) verileceği tehdidi altında istenmesi halinde söz konusu olur. Baskı feshi, işçinin yetersizliğine, davranışlarına ve aynı zamanda işletmeye ilişkin sebeplere dayanan derhal feshin istisnası olmakla birlikte aynı zamanda süreli fesih olarak da açıklanabilir. Baskı feshinin “gerçek” ve “gerçek” olmayan baskı feshi olmak üzere iki türü mevcuttur. Gerçek olmayan baskı feshinde üçüncü kişilerin işverene uyguladığı baskı, feshin gerçek sebebi olmayıp, bilakis fesih işçinin feshe yol açan davranışlarına dayanmaktadır. Bu durumun aksine gerçek baskı feshinde üçüncü kişiler ya da işverenin diğer çalışanları, işçinin yetersizliğine ya da davranışlarına dayanan kanıtlanabilir bir fesih sebebi olmaksızın, işçinin işten çıkarılmasını istemektedir. Baskı feshinin uygulanma alanı bulduğu Almanya’da, Federal İş Mahkemesi’nin görüşüne göre bu durumda işletmeye ilişkin sebepler nedeniyle bir fesih söz konusudur. Gerçek baskı feshinin geçerliliği yargı kararlarıyla oluşturulmuş sıkı şartlara bağlanmıştır. İncelemeye konu kararda ise işçi, işyeri ve işi ile ilgili olmayan işlemiş olduğu bir suç nedeniyle, diğer işçiler tarafından işverene karşı yapılan baskı sonucu işten çıkarılmıştır. Çalışmamızda ilk olarak Federal İş Mahkemesi’nin kararı genel hatlarıyla incelenmiş olup akabinde Türk hukukunda baskı feshinin uygulanabilirliği değerlendirilmiştir.
Recent Applications of Silver Amalgam Electrodes for Analysis of Pharmaceuticals and Vitamins
Authors: Smarzewska Sylwia , Metelka Radovan , Baś Bogusław , Vytřas Karel
Published: November 2018

The features and applications of silver amalgam electrodes in electroanalysis of
pharmaceuticals and vitamins are summarized in this review. The state-of-the-art in the
preparation and construction of solid silver amalgam electrodes for prolonged and userfriendly
use is presented. Although not as widely spread as other electrode materials, silver
amalgam possesses a unique and viable combination of favorable electrochemical properties,
which are close to ideal mercury electrodes, non-toxic character, high durability and
mechanical stability, if properly prepared. Its capability of conducting the redox processes at
highly negative potentials is essential for the analysis of large number of bioactive organic
compounds. The review features also overview information for each application in drug or
vitamin analysis divided to the sections according to the construction variants of silver
amalgam electrodes.
The Structural Details of Aspirin Molecules and Crystals
Authors: Toader Ana Maria , Zarić Snezana D. , Zalaru Christina M. , Ferbinteanu Marilena
Published: November 2018

We revisit, in the key of structural chemistry, one of the most known and important drugs: the aspirin. Although apparently simple, the factors determining the molecular structure and supramolecular association in crystals are not trivial. We addressed the problem from experimental and theoretical sides, considering issues from X-ray measurements and results of first-principle reconstruction of molecule and lattices by ab initio calculations. Some puzzling problems can give headaches to specialists and intrigue the general public. Thus, the reported polymorphism of aspirin is disputed, a so-called form II being alleged as a result of misinterpretation. At the same time, were presented evidences that the structure of common form I can be disrupted by domains where the regular packing is changed to the pattern of form II. The problems appear even at the level of independent molecule: the most stable conformation computed by various techniques of electronic structure differs from those encountered in crystals. Because the energy difference between the related conformational isomers (computed as most stable vs. the experimental structure) is small, about 1 kcal/mol, comprised in the error bars of used methods, the unresting question is whether the modelling is imprecise, or the supramolecular factors are mutating the conformational preferences. By a detective following of the issue, the intermolecular effects were made responsible for the conformation of the molecule in crystal. The presented problems were gathered from literature results, debates, glued with modelling and analysis redone by ourselves, in order to secure the unitary view of the considered prototypic topic.
A Review of Drug Repositioning Based Chemical-induced Cell Line Expression Data
Authors: Wang Fei , Lei Xiujuan , Wu Fang-Xiang
Published: November 2018

Drug repositioning is an important area of biomedical research. The drug repositioning studies
have shifted to computational approaches. Large-scale perturbation databases, such as the Connectivity
Map and the Library of Integrated Network-Based Cellular Signatures, contain a number of
chemical-induced gene expression profiles and provide great opportunities for computational biology
and drug repositioning. One reason is that the profiles provided by the Connectivity Map and the Library
of Integrated Network-Based Cellular Signatures databases show an overall view of biological mechanism
in drugs, diseases and genes. In this article, we provide a review of the two databases and their recent
applications in drug repositioning.
Computational Advances in the Label-free Quantification of Cancer Proteomics Data
Authors: Tang Jing , Zhang Yang , Fu Jianbo , Wang Yunxia , Li Yi , Yang Qingxia , Yao Lixia , Xue Weiwei , Zhu Feng
Published: November 2018

Background:

Due to its ability to provide quantitative and dynamic information on tumor genesis and
development by directly profiling protein expression, the proteomics has become intensely popular for characterizing
the functional proteins driving the transformation of malignancy, tracing the large-scale protein alterations
induced by anticancer drug, and discovering the innovative targets and first-in-class drugs for oncologic disorders.

Objective:

To quantify cancer proteomics data, the label-free quantification (LFQ) is frequently employed. However,
low precision, poor reproducibility and inaccuracy of the LFQ of proteomics data have been recognized as
the key “technical challenge” in the discovery of anticancer targets and drugs. In this paper, the recent advances
and development in the computational perspective of LFQ in cancer proteomics were therefore systematically
reviewed and analyzed.

Methods:

PubMed and Web of Science database were searched for label-free quantification approaches, cancer
proteomics and computational advances.

Results:

First, a variety of popular acquisition techniques and state-of-the-art quantification tools are systematically
discussed and critically assessed. Then, many processing approaches including transformation, normalization,
filtering and imputation are subsequently discussed, and their impacts on improving LFQ performance of
cancer proteomics are evaluated. Finally, the future direction for enhancing the computation-based quantification
technique for cancer proteomics are also proposed.

Conclusion:

There is a dramatic increase in LFQ approaches in recent year, which significantly enhance the
diversity of the possible quantification strategies for studying cancer proteomics.
CT-707 Overcomes Resistance of Crizotinib through Activating PDPK1- AKT1 Pathway by Targeting FAK
Authors: Liang Caixia , Zhang Ningning , Tan Qiaoyun , Liu Shuxia , Luo Rongrong , Wang Yanrong , Shi Yuankai , Han Xiaohong
Published: November 2018

Background:

Crizotinib established the position of anaplastic lymphoma kinase-tyrosine
kinase inhibitors (ALK-TKI) in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) while the therapy-
resistance hindered those patients from benefitting continuously from the treatment. CT-707 is
an inhibitor of ALK/focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and IGFR-1. H2228CR (crizotinib resistance, CR)
and H3122CR NSCLC cell lines were generated from the parental cell line H2228 (EML4-ALK,
E6a/b:A20, variant 3) and H3122(EML4-ALK, E13:A20, variant 1), respectively.

Methods:

We investigated the antitumor effects CT-707 exerted against H3122CR in vitro /vivo.

Results:

Importantly, our study provided evidence that CT-707 overcomes resistance to crizotinib
through activating PDPK1-AKT1 pathway by targeting FAK. Meanwhile, by using an in-vivo
H3122CR xenograft model, we found CT-707 inhibited tumor growth significantly without obvious
side effects.

Conclusion:

These findings indicate that CT-707 may be a promising therapeutic agent against crizotinib-
resistance in NSCLC.
Prevalence of Thyroid Diseases in an Occupationally Radiation Exposed Group: A Cross-Sectional Study in a University Hospital of Southern Italy
Authors: Vimercati Luigi , De Maria Luigi , Mansi Francesca , Caputi Antonio , Ferri Giovanni M. , Luisi Vito , Lovreglio Piero , Cannone Enza S.S. , Lorusso Pietro , Gatti Maria F. , Massagli Chiara R.S. , Triggiani Vincenzo
Published: November 2018

Background:

Thyroid diseases occur more frequently in people exposed to ionizing radiation,
but the relationship between occupational exposure to ionizing radiation and thyroid pathologies
still remains unclear.

Objective:

To evaluate the prevalence of thyroid diseases in healthcare workers exposed to low-level
ionizing radiation compared with a control group working at the University Hospital of Bari, Southern
Italy, and living in the same geographical area, characterized by mild iodine deficiency.

Methods:

We ran a cross-sectional study to investigate whether healthcare workers exposed to ionizing
radiation had a higher prevalence of thyroid diseases. Four hundred and forty-four exposed healthcare
workers (241 more exposed, or “A Category”, and 203 less exposed, or “B Category”) and 614 nonexposed
healthcare workers were enrolled during a routine examination at the Occupational Health
Unit. They were asked to fill in an anamnestic questionnaire and undergo a physical examination, serum
determination of fT3, fT4 and TSH, anti-TPO ab and anti-TG ab and ultrasound neck scan. Thyroid
nodules were submitted to fine needle aspiration biopsy when indicated.

Results:

The prevalence of thyroid diseases was statistically higher in the exposed workers compared
to controls (40% vs 29%, adPR 1.65; IC95% 1.34-2.07). In particular, the thyroid nodularity prevalence
in the exposed group was approximately twice as high as that in the controls (29% vs 13%; adPR
2.83; IC95% 2.12-3.8). No statistically significant association was found between exposure to ionizing
radiation and other thyroid diseases.

Conclusion:

In our study, mild ionizing radiation-exposed healthcare workers had a statistically higher
prevalence of thyroid diseases than the control group. The results are likely due to a closer and more
meticulous health surveillance programme carried out in the ionising radiation-exposed workers, allowing
them to identify thyroid alterations earlier than non-exposed health staff.
Alveolar Ridge Preservation: A Histomorphometric Analysis
Authors: Schnutenhaus Sigmar , Götz Werner , Dreyhaupt Jens , Rudolph Heike , Luthardt Ralph G.
Published: November 2018

Objective:

This study presents the histomorphometric findings after tooth extraction with and without Alveolar Ridge Preservation (ARP) with a collagen cone filling the socket in combination with a collagen membrane covering the socket.

Materials and Methods:

In a controlled randomized clinical study, 10 patients were treated with the combination material after tooth extraction. In 10 patients, the extraction sockets were left to heal without further intervention. Soft tissue, new bone formation, bone quality and bone remodeling, blood flow vascularization, and inflammation were evaluated histomorphometrically. This was performed (semi-) quantitatively using a blinded protocol.

Results:

The statistical evaluation showed no significant difference for any parameter. When the combination material was used, more pronounced remodeling, increased osteoblast activity, and increased vascularization were demonstrated based on the histomorphometric findings. In contrast, there were reduced levels of osteogenesis and less mineralization. There was slightly more bundle bone in patients with ARP.

Conclusion:

The histomorphometric analysis of ARP with a combination material consisting of a collagen cone and a collagen membrane showed no significant differences in terms of new bone formation and bone quality. Descriptively, however, different manifestations were seen that might benefit from being documented using larger samples and being tested for clinical relevance.
Gevallen van eerwraak in Nederland en het beslissingsmodel van de strafrechter
Authors: Wiersinga Hermine
Published: November 2018

https://doi.org/10.21827/5a6b32515dec9
Health Insurance in the First 3 Months of Hemodialysis and Early Vascular Access
Authors: Lin Eugene , Mell Matthew W. , Winkelmayer Wolfgang C. , Erickson Kevin F.
Published: November 2018

Background and objectives

Patients without Medicare who develop ESKD in the United States become Medicare eligible by their fourth dialysis month. Patients without insurance may experience delays in obtaining arteriovenous fistulas or grafts before obtaining Medicare coverage.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

In this retrospective cohort study, we used a national registry to compare uninsured patients starting in-center hemodialysis with a central venous catheter between 2010 and 2013 with similar patients with Medicare or Medicaid. We evaluated whether insurance status at dialysis start influenced the likelihoods of switching to dialysis through an arteriovenous fistula or graft and hospitalizations involving a vascular access infection. We used multivariable logistic and Cox regression models and transformed odds ratios to relative risks using marginal effects.

Results

Patients with Medicare or Medicaid were more likely to switch to an arteriovenous fistula or graft by their fourth dialysis month versus uninsured patients (Medicare hazard ratio, 1.63; 95% confidence interval, 1.14 to 2.43; Medicaid hazard ratio, 1.23; 95% confidence interval, 1.12 to 1.38). There were no differences in rates of switching to arteriovenous fistulas or grafts after all patients obtained Medicare in their fourth dialysis month (Medicare hazard ratio, 1.17; 95% confidence interval, 0.97 to 1.42; Medicaid hazard ratio, 1.01; 95% confidence interval, 0.96 to 1.06). Patients with Medicare at dialysis start had fewer hospitalizations involving vascular access infection in dialysis months 4–12 (hazard ratio, 0.60; 95% confidence interval, 0.37 to 0.97).

Conclusions

Insurance-related disparities in the use of arteriovenous fistulas and grafts persist through the fourth month of dialysis, may not fully correct after all patients obtain Medicare coverage, and may lead to more frequent vascular access infections.
Effectiveness Assessment on Overseas Farm Land Investments in Ethiopia
Authors: Tefera Getamesay , Lu Prof. Xinhai
Published: November 2018

The wave of acquiring large-scale farmland investments for overseas both by the private and state-owned company after the 2007/2008 food and energy crisis has brought a lot of attention worldwide among scholars, media experts, and activist. Sooner or later this huge wave towards overseas large-scale farmland investment has raised a conflicting debate among scholars and developmental practitioners on its significance. In this study we investigate effectiveness levels of those overseas farmland investors, who acquire land in Ethiopia from 1995-2016, using time series data for said period collected from the databank of Ethiopian investment agency. We applied descriptive and inferential statistical analysis using E-views version-9. Finally, the findings indicate that effectiveness of overseas farmland investments for those projects that possess the license and that got the land is about 67.4 per cent. The regression result indicates as there is a significant relationship between origin of the investor’s country (0.0039) and farm land size (0.0000) with a P value less than 5 per cent. The result indicates and also substantiates those who perceive the activity as more of land acquisition that the investors are failed to invest appropriately after they possessed the land. Finally, the findings greatly contribute for policy makers and also for implementing appropriate land investment strategy in the whole.
Sustainable Development: Myth or Reality?
Authors: Gorbanyov Prof. Vladimir
Published: November 2018

The report “Our Common Future” gives a definition of sustainable development.

In principle, the idea of sustainable development is extremely humane and noble, and it has no alternative. But at the same time this idea in the modern world looks very unrealistic. This is more a slogan than a scientific concept. Sustainable development of our planet is a global process, it is an ideal, because our planet is a single balanced geoecological system. However, today theoretically sustainable development can be achieved only in a small number of highly developed post-industrial countries. In developing countries, unfortunately, there can be no question of sustainable development. In other words, at the global level, it is not possible to achieve sustainable development in the near future.

There can be no sustainable development in a single country. But this does not mean that all countries without exception do not need to implement environmental protection activity. On the contrary, it is necessary to carry out such activities everywhere. But this will not be sustainable development, this will be local measures for the rational use of nature. But all these measures are of a local nature, they will not become global, which means that this will not be a sustainable development.

However, the term “sustainable development” has gained wide popularity, is humane in nature, so it may remain, but we should remember that this is just a conditional term, and in fact it is a rational use of nature on a local level.

Examples of sustainable development strategies and projects in a number of countries are given. It is shown that most of these projects are in essence projects on rational nature use in individual regions. The other part which concerns global problems, can be implemented only by developed countries, they also cannot be sustainable development projects.
Money, Exchange Rate, Prices and Output in Nigeria: A Test of the P-Star Model
Authors: Yaaba Baba N. , Ibrahim Abubakar, , Yakubu Shaba,
Published: November 2018

The search for robust model to predict inflation within a QTM framework gave birth to P-star model which has attracted less attention of researchers and practitioners in Nigeria. This study applied the methodology to high frequency Nigerian data from 1995M1 to 2018M6 to determine the validity of the model for Nigeria using error correction model (ECM). The result supports the working of the model but with slight modification. The modification centres on the incorporation of foreign price gap, (open economy view of inflation), reserve money (Friedmanic/monetarist view), price per litre of petroleum motor spirit (PMS) and output gap (Structuralist view). With this modification, P-star model proved to be a viable inflation forecasting alternative model for Nigeria. Consequently, the Central Bank of Nigeria is advised to consider adopting this modified version of the model to forecast inflation for Nigeria at least as a complimentary model to be used side-by-side with the existing forecasting model of the Bank. This will no doubt enhance the efficacy of the monetary policy of the Bank as such policies will be predicated on sufficient information, particularly on the future path of inflation.
How to make unforgeable money in generalised probabilistic theories
Authors: Selby John H. , Sikora Jamie
Published: November 2018

We discuss the possibility of creating money that is physically impossible to counterfeit. Of course, "physically impossible" is dependent on the theory that is a faithful description of nature. Currently there are several proposals for quantum money which have their security based on the validity of quantum mechanics. In this work, we examine Wiesner's money scheme in the framework of generalised probabilistic theories. This framework is broad enough to allow for essentially any potential theory of nature, provided that it admits an operational description. We prove that under a quantifiable version of the no-cloning theorem, one can create physical money which has an exponentially small chance of being counterfeited. Our proof relies on cone programming, a natural generalisation of semidefinite programming. Moreover, we discuss some of the difficulties that arise when considering non-quantum theories.
Relatorio Final de Avaliação do Projeto de Igual para Igual numa Intervenção em Rede: um estudo meta-avaliativo
Authors: Andretti Andrea Regina S. N. , Costa Maria Beatriz P. P. , Aguiar Glauco Da Silva
Published: November 2018

O objetivo deste artigo e o de apresentar uma meta-avaliação somativa no Relatorio de Avaliação Final do Projeto “De igual para igual numa intervencao em rede” cujo objetivo foi enfrentar os problemas da pobreza e da exclusao social no Concelho Municipal de Cuba em Portugal. A regiao do Concelho de Cuba vem sofrendo ao longo do tempo um processo natural de envelhecimento populacional e de despovoamento acentuado. E uma das regioes de Portugal que possui elevados indices de redução demografica. Isso e devido, nao apenas às reduzidas formas de ocupação da população residente, mas tambem de um impotente dinamismo econômico. A metodologia norteadora do estudo meta-avaliativo realizado foi pautada nos criterios de avaliação disseminados por Davidson, ou seja, Qualidade, Utilidade, Conduta, Credibilidade e Custo.  Ao final do estudo constatou-se que o Relatorio Final de Avaliação do Projeto cumpriu os criterios, com excecao do criterio Custo que nao estava presente.Palavras-chave: Meta-avaliação. Avaliação. Relatorio. Igualdade de Genero.
ANALISIS HUBUNGAN FAKTOR SOSIAL EKONOMI DENGAN PARTISIPASI ANGGOTA KELOMPOKTANI KELAS PEMULA PADA USAHATANI PADI SAWAH DI KECAMATAN SEKERNAN KABUPATEN MUARO JAMBI
Authors: Panjaitan Elliana Ester , Napitupulu Dompak , Nurfathiyah Pera
Published: November 2018

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui partisipasi petani pada kelompok tani kelas pemula di Kecamatan Sekernan, untuk melihat hubungan faktor sosial ekonomi (pendidikan, luas lahan garapan, jumlah anggota keluarga, dan pendapatan) terhadap partisipasi anggota dalam kelompok tani pemula Di Kecamatan Sekernan Kabupaten Muaro Jambi.Penelitian ini dilakukan di Kecamatan Sekernan, lokasi penelitian ini dilakukan secara sengaja dengan pertimbangan Kecamatan Sekernan merupakan daerah sentra produksi tanaman padi sawah di Provinsi Jambi.Sampel pada penelitian ini adalah petani padi sawah kelas pemula.Data yang dihimpun dari penelitian ini adalah data primer dan data sekunder.Data yang diperoleh dari hasil penelitian akan disederhanakan dengan menggunakan tabulasi, kemudian dianalisis secara deskriptif melalui scoring dan persentase.Untuk melihat pengaruh tinggi atau rendah faktor sosial ekonomi denganpartisipasianggota kelompok tani kelas pemula pada usahatni padi sawah digunakan analisis statistik non parametrik melalui Uji Chi-Square (Siegel, 1997).Penelitian memperjelas bahwa tinggi rendahnya faktor sosial ekonomi berhubungan nyata dengan partisipasi anggota kelompok tani kelas pemula pada usahatani padi sawah di Kecamatan Sekernan Kabupaten Muaro Jambi.   Kata Kunci : Faktor  sosial ekonomi, Partisipasi anggota kelompok tani, Padi sawah
ANALISIS USAHATANI PADI SAWAH DAN USAHATANI KEDELAI DI KECAMATAN BERBAK KABUPATEN TANJUNG JABUNG TIMUR
Authors: Satryawan Dwi , Kernalis Emy , Arby Arnoldy
Published: November 2018

Penelitian ini bertujuanuntuk; 1) mengetahui kondisi usahatani padi sawah dan usahatani kedelai; 2) biaya, penerimaan dan pendapatan usahatani padi sawah dan usahatani kedelai; 3) kelayakan dari usahatani padi sawah dan usahatani kedelai di Kelurahan Simpang Kecamatan Berbak Kabupaten Tanjung Jabung Timur. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah observasi dan wawancara, dengan jumlahsampel 31 responden yang diambil secara acak sederhana. Sampel merupakan petani yang berusahatani padi sawah dan kedelai secara bergiliran dalam satu tahun.Penelitian ini dilakukan pada tanggal 24 Mei sampai dengan tanggal 24 Juni 2013.Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa dari rata-rata produksi 616,335 Kg per hektar pada usahatani padi sawah dan pada usahatani kedelai rata-rata produksi sebesar 1.113,592 Kg per hektar. Rata-rata pendapatan yang diperoleh dari usahatani padi sawah sebesar Rp. 470.494,01 per hektar dan dari usahatani kedelai adalah Rp. 3.105.018,63 per hektar. Dari usahatani padi sawah didapatkan pendapatan kerja petani sebesar Rp.1.981.662,01 per hektar, penghasilan kerja petani Rp. 3.153.177,16 per hektar serta pendapatan kerja keluarga sebesar Rp. 3.171.965,04 per hektar. Sedangkan pada usahatani kedelai, pendapatan kerja petani yang diperoleh adalah Rp.4.922.739,387 per hektar, penghasilan kerja petani Rp. 6.079.579,009 per hektar serta pendapatan kerja keluarga sebesar Rp. 6.116.135,613 per hektar. Dari analisa kelayakan menggunakan Revenue Cost Ratio, Benefit Cost Ratio dan Break Even Point dapat dikatakan bahwa usahatani padi sawah dan usahatani kedelai yang diusahakan petani menguntungkan dan layak untuk diusahakan serta dikembangkan. Kata Kunci :Usahatani,Pendapatan, Kelayakan
DAMPAK KRISIS EKONOMI TERHADAP PROFITABILITAS AGROINDUSTRI KERIPIK TEMPE DI KABUPATEN TEBO
Authors: Putra Dhikdaya Manggala , Napitupulu Dompak , Elwamendri Elwamendri
Published: November 2018

Penelitian ini ditunjukan untuk mengetahui seberapa besar pendapatan dan profitabilitas yang di peroleh agroindustri keripik tempe di Kabupaten Tebo sebelum dan saat krisis ekonomi. Pemilihan lokasi penelitian dengan dasar penetapan wilayah secara sengaja (Purposive) dengan pertimbangan lokasi penelitian merupakan daerah agroindustri keripik tempe dengan jumlah 32 unit yang terletak di Kabupaten Tebo. Penelitian dilakukan dari tanggal 16 Juni 2014 sampai tanggal 16 Juli 2014 dengan metode sensus. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa terjadi penurunan pendapatan saat krisis ekonomi yang dimana sebelum krisis ekonomi rata-rata pendapatan agroindustri keripik tempe sebesar Rp. 55.697.106/tahun dan saat krisis ekonomi rata-rata pendapatan sebesar Rp. 32.694.808/tahun dengan perbedaan pendapatan sebelum dan saat krisis ekonomi sebesar Rp. 23.002.298/tahun. hal itu mengakibatkan ikut menurunnya profitabilitas saat krisis ekonomi dimana rata-rata profitabilitas sebelum krisis ekonomi sebesar 4,80% /tahun dan saat krisis ekonomi sebesar 3,01%/tahun dengan perbedaan profitabilitas sebelum dan saat krisis ekonomi sebesar 1,79%/tahun. Selain itu digunakan analisis uji beda dua rata-rata antara pendapatan dan profitabilitas sebelum krisis ekonomi dan saat krisis ekonomi yang dimana didapat hasil pendapatan dan profitabilitas agroindustri keripik tempe sebelum krisis ekonomi lebih besar dibandingkan dengan pendapatan dan profitabilitas agroindustri saat krisis ekonomi.

Kata Kunci : Krisis Ekonomi, Profitabilitas, Agroindustri, Keripik Tempe