bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of the Balanced Scorecard on Performance: Case Study of the Housing Bank for Trade and Finance
Authors: Khaled Sakhr Bani , Bani-Ahmad Audeh
Published: January 2019

This study aimed at identifying the extent of the use of the balanced scorecard in the Housing Bank for Trade and Finance, as was laid out in the Bank's plans. Therefore, employee and customer surveys were conducted to study both the internal Perspectives of operations, growth, and learning, and to measure customer satisfaction with the bank's services. The study also conducted an analysis of the financial performance compared to the index of the industry related to the Jordanian banks. After analyzing the data and hypotheses, the study found that the use of the balanced scorecard came in line with its strategic plans, and the financial performance of the bank was superior to the banking sector. The study recommends an increased use of balanced scorecards in order to sustain customer satisfaction.
The Quality of Regional Government and Firm Performance
Authors: Ricotta Fernanda
Published: January 2019

This paper examines the effect of the quality of regional government (QoG) on firm Total Factor Productivity (TFP) in a multi-country context. The analysis is based on comparable cross-country data of manufacturing firms operating in seven European countries. To disentangle internal from external productivity drivers, the multilevel approach is employed. Results show that firms’ characteristics are important but external factors also play a role. As regards the specific scope of this paper, the results provide evidence that institutional differences within countries do matter for firm performance. The attempts made to address endogeneity problems confirm the positive and significant impact of the quality of regional institutions on firm performance.
Population Aging Can Aggravate Air Pollution: Evidence from China
Authors: Shi Hui
Published: January 2019

Population, resources and environment have always attracted much attention from the society. Nowadays, pollution and population aging are urgent problems to be solved in China, and many scholars have found a strong correlation between pollution and aging. This paper constructs a KAYA model with aging variables, making an empirical analysis of the relationship between population aging and air pollution based on the panel data of 82 cities in China from 2011 to 2016. We found that population aging has a significant and positive impact on air pollution. 1% change of the population aging will lead to a 0.203% change in AQI. The deepening of China’s aging level will lead to ineffective improvement of air quality and even lead to more serious air pollution. Then we make the further analysis of the impact mechanism of population aging on air quality, the results show that population aging could have a positive impact on air pollution by improving labor productivity, promoting technological innovation, increasing fossil energy consumption and the household consumption, and changing the structure of household consumption. At last, in order to improve the air pollution under the background of population aging, we put forward the policy recommendations according to the conclusion of this paper.
Evolutionarily conserved roles of Caenorhabditis elegans perilipin in lipolysis
Authors: Kaššák Filip , Chughtai Ahmed A , Kostrouchová Marta
Published: January 2019

Neutral lipids and namely triacyl-glycerols (TAGs) are the prevalent excess energy storage molecules in all eukaryotic organisms. They are universally organized in active cytoplasmic organelles called lipid droplets (LDs) and their breakdown is performed and regulated in an evolutionarily conserved manner. In mammals, two distinct but inter-connected pathways are believed to mediate this catabolism: conventional cytoplasmic lipolysis with effector neutral lipases; and lipophagy, a specific kind of autophagy exploiting lysosomal acidic lipases. Central molecules in this regulation are LD-resident proteins, perilipins (PLINs). Our recent discovery of a sole PLIN orthologue in C. elegans offers a unique opportunity to study these regulatory pathways, provided that the interactive mechanisms are orthologous. To determine this, we employed classical genetics with genome editing tools and in vivo microscopy to provide three lines of evidence demonstrating the conserved role of the C. elegans perilipin. Firstly, we proved the common presence of a standard lipolytic apparatus on LDs. Next, we ascertained a functional connection between nematode PLIN-1 and the effector enzyme, hormone-sensitive lipase (HOSL-1). Finally, we identified lipophagy as a secondary lipolytic pathway, which is consistent with the mammalian model. Our data provide not only a proof of concept but also suggests interesting implications by questioning the physiological role of lipophagy in lipolysis.
Complication–simplification spiral in hygrothermal research
Authors: Hokoi Shuichi
Published: January 2019

The author reviewed reported studies related to his own hygrothermal research. The outline of the research is first described with respect to the thermal conductivity of a moist porous material, linearity and nonlinearity, extension of research object, and human thermal physiology and psychology, followed by the lessons learned from these studies. Finally, some proposals for future studies are provided, based on the obtained knowledge. This review is based on a spiral development of thought in an ideal direction, that is, a simplification–complication spiral.
The best and worst of 2018, and hopes and fears for 2019
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: January 2019

With public understanding growing every day about the need to address substance use disorders (SUDs) with the full array of health responses our nation deploys for other major illnesses, we hope to see great progress in the coming year. Progress should include dramatic expansion of all quality prevention, treatment services and medications, and recovery supports, with financial investment increased sufficiently to meet the need; full coverage of all SUD treatment services and medications by every state's Medicaid program and by Medicare; much stronger enforcement of federal and state requirements for parity in commercial insurance and Medicaid, including prohibitions on prior authorization, fail‐first, overly burdensome utilization review and inadequate reimbursement for care; availability of all effective and quality SUD treatment and medications at every level of the criminal justice system and throughout the child welfare system; and elimination of discriminatory barriers facing people still suffering or in recovery from SUD, including those with criminal histories, as they seek employment, housing, government benefits, the right to vote and other necessities of life.
Calculus and survivorship in medieval London: The association between dental disease and a demographic measure of general health
Authors: Yaussy Samantha L. , DeWitte Sharon N.
Published: January 2019

Objectives

Dental plaque is associated with a variety of systemic diseases and mortality risks in living populations. However, bioarchaeologists have not fully investigated the mortality risks associated with plaque (or its mineralized form, calculus) in the past. This study examines the relationship between survivorship and calculus in a medieval skeletal sample.

Materials and methods

Our sample (n = 1,098) from four medieval London cemeteries, c. 1000–1540 CE, includes people who died under attritional (normal) and catastrophic (famine and plague) conditions. The associations between age and the presence of dental calculus on the permanent left first mandibular molar are assessed using binary logistic regression and Kaplan–Meier survival analysis.

Results

The regression results indicate a significant negative relationship between age and calculus presence for individuals of all ages who died under normal mortality conditions and for adults who died under both normal and catastrophic conditions. Survival analysis reveals decreased survivorship for people of all ages with calculus under normal mortality conditions. Similarly, during conditions of catastrophic mortality, adult males with calculus suffered reduced survivorship compared to males without it, though there was no difference in survivorship between adult females with and without calculus.

Conclusions

These results suggest that, as in modern populations, calculus accumulation in the inhabitants of medieval London reflects a greater risk of premature death. The evaluation of calculus, a potential measure of underlying frailty, in the context of a demographic measure of general health suggests that it might provide insights into health in past populations.
Unusual Attractive Au–π Interactions in Small Diacetylene‐Modified Gold Clusters
Authors: Iwasaki Mitsuhiro , Shichibu Yukatsu , Konishi Katsuaki
Published: January 2019

It is well known that alkynes act as π‐acids in the formation of complexes with metals. We found unprecedented attractive Au–π interactions in diacetylene‐modified [core+exo]‐type [Au8]4+ clusters. The 4‐phenyl‐1,3‐butadiynyl‐modified cluster has unusually short Au–Cα distances in the crystal structure, revealing the presence of attractive interactions between the coordinating C≡C moieties and the neighboring bitetrahedral Au6 core, which is further supported by IR and NMR spectra. Such weak interactions are not found in mono‐acetylene‐modified clusters, which indicates that they are specific for diacetylenic ligands. The attractive Au–π interactions are likely associated with the low energy of the π* orbital in the diacetylenic moieties, into which the valence electrons of the gold core may be back donated. The [Au8]4+ clusters show clear red‐shifts of >10 nm with respect to the corresponding mono‐acetylenic clusters in UV/Vis absorption bands, which indicates substantial electronic perturbation effects of the Au–π interactions.
Polybismuthide Anions as Ligands: The Homoleptic Complex [(Bi7)Cd(Bi7)]4− and the Ternary Cluster [(Bi6)Zn3(TlBi5)]4−
Authors: Lichtenberger Niels , Massa Werner , Dehnen Stefanie
Published: January 2019

We present the results from a reactivity study of the binary anion (TlBi3)2− towards Group 12 metal compounds MPh2 (M=Zn, Cd, Hg) to gain access to coordination compounds of polycyclic polypnictide molecules such as Bi73− or Bi113−. The coordination chemistry of these polybismuthide cages has been unprecedented to date, while it has been known for a long time for the lighter Group 15 anions Pn73− (Pn=P, As, Sb). The use of (TlBi3)2−, previously shown to release Tl under certain conditions in situ, resulted in the formation of the first heterometallic polyanion in which a nortricyclane‐type polybismuthide coordinates a transition‐metal atom, [(Bi7)Cd(Bi7)]4−. Reactions with the lighter Group 12 metal precursor yielded the uncommon ternary cluster [(Bi6)Zn3(TlBi5)]4−, most likely representing a reaction intermediate, and at the same time hinting at the formation of the nortricyclane‐shaped cage. Quantum‐chemical studies provide deeper insight into the stability trends of the [(E7)M(E7)]4− anion family and reveal a complex bonding situation in [(Bi6)Zn3(TlBi5)]4−, which features both localized and multi‐center bonding.
Effects of time delays on the therapeutic outcomes of intravenous thrombolysis for acute ischemic stroke in the posterior circulation: An observational study
Authors: Huang Qiang , Song Hai‐qing , Ma Qing‐feng , Song Xiao‐wei , Wu Jian
Published: January 2019

Objectives

We aim to demonstrate the effects of time delays on the therapeutic outcomes of intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) in acute posterior circulation stroke (PCS) patients.

Methods

Consecutive PCS cases treated with IVT alone were retrospectively examined. The primary end point was set to be a favorable outcome (modified Rankin Scale [mRS] ≤2) at 3 months, and angiographic recanalization was set to be the secondary outcome.

Results

A total of 95 PCS cases with IVT were recruited. The patients with favorable outcomes and those without favorable outcomes had similar baseline characteristics, except for significantly lower National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores (5 vs. 12, respectively; p < 0.001) and less hyperdense basilar artery signs in head CTs (26.5% vs. 70.4%, respectively; p < 0.001) for those with favorable outcomes. For patients with an onset‐to‐treatment time (OTT) of 0–90 min (n = 5), 91–180 min (n = 38), 181–270 min (n = 37), or ≧271 min (n = 15), the rate of favorable outcome was 100.0%, 71.1%, 67.6%, or 73.3%, respectively, and the Cochran–Armitage trend test showed no linear trend between the OTT and the clinical prognosis of IVT in PCS (p = 0.501) patients. In addition, the rates of recanalization were 100.0%, 68.4%, 64.9%, and 46.7%, and the Cochran–Armitage trend test suggested a linear trend between the OTT and recanalization (p = 0.046); that is, the proportion of PCS patients who underwent recanalization decreased with increasing OTTs. In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, after adjusting for confounding factors with p ≦ 0.20 in the univariate analysis, baseline NIHSS scores and hyperdense basilar artery signs were negatively associated with favorable outcomes, with odds ratios (OR) of 0.884 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.804–0.971; p = 0.010) and 0.208 (95% CI, 0.062–0.693; p = 0.011), respectively. In addition, there was a negative association between recanalization, OTTs (OR, 0.993, 95% CI, 0.987–0.999; p = 0.029), and baseline NIHSS scores (OR, 0.881, 95% CI, 0.802–0.967; p = 0.008).

Conclusion

Irrespective of stroke severity, the therapeutic effects of recanalization after IVT decreased significantly with longer time delays in PCS patients.
Chiroptical Properties of Twisted Acenes: Experimental and Computational Study
Authors: Bedi Anjan , Gidron Ori
Published: January 2019

Acenes that are twisted out of planarity are expected to display chiroptical properties. However, the effect of twisting on the chiroptical properties of acenes has not been investigated computationally or experimentally. Herein, we present a computational investigation of the chiroptical properties of anthracenes to pentacenes, combined with an experimental study using a series of helically locked acenes, twisted to different torsional angles in their enantiopure form. The lowest energy transition, which is relatively weak in acenes, becomes dominant in their circular dichroism spectra upon twisting. We find that the rotational strength of acenes consistently increases with increasing twist. The experimental data obtained from enantiopure tethered twistacenes show the same trend as the calculated result, with a strong Cotton effect and anisotropy factor, rendering twisted acenes as excellent chiroptical materials.
Interrogation of the Effect of Polymorphism of a Metal‐Organic Framework Host on the Structure of Embedded Pd Guest Nanoparticles
Authors: Butson Joshua D. , Kim Hyunjeong , Murugappan Krishnan , Saunders Martin , Buckley Craig E. , Silvester Debbie S. , Szilágyi Petra Á.
Published: January 2019

Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) are very promising host materials for nanoscale guest materials. However, some MOFs such as MIL‐53 are known to undergo phase transitions which can complicate the guest particle size control. In this study, Pd nanoparticles embedded in Al‐MIL‐53 were synthesised via (a) electrodeposition and (b) gas‐phase reduction. A thorough structural investigation revealed that each synthesis method most likely favoured a different phase of Al‐MIL‐53, presenting the possibility of MOF phase selection as a technique for size control of embedded nanoparticles. For the first time, we hereby report the use of pair distribution function analysis to successfully investigate the structure and morphology of guest particles embedded in a MOF host.
A Highly Stable Separator from an Instantly Reformed Gel with Direct Post‐Solidation for Long‐Cycle High‐Rate Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Jingna , Shi Xingyi , Boateng Bismark , Han Yupei , Chen Dongjiang , He Weidong
Published: January 2019

An efficient, scalable, and cost‐effective approach was developed to synthesize a hierarchically constructed polyvinylidene fluoride‐hexafluoropropylene (PVDF–HFP) separator from an instantly reformed solution. With partially dissolved PVDF–HFP as separator skeleton, the incorporation of warm PVDF–HFP solution in acetone led to a cross‐linked structure before N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone (NMP) was added to solidify the hierarchical inner‐bound structure of fresh PVDF–HFP. Owing to its hierarchical microporous structure, the separator exhibited remarkable wettability with a small contact angle of 18° and an electrolyte uptake of 114.81 %, leading to a high room‐temperature ionic conductivity of 3.27×10−3 S cm−1. The hierarchical structure provided short pathways for efficient ion transfer with more electrolyte trapped inside and small intervals between adjacent nanopores. The separator outperformed commercial separators, showing high rate capacities of 104.8 mAh g−1 at 5 C and 95 mAh g−1 at 10 C as well as unparalleled perfect capacity retention at 10 C after 1000 cycles.
Efficient and Hole‐Transporting‐Layer‐Free CsPbI2Br Planar Heterojunction Perovskite Solar Cells through Rubidium Passivation
Authors: Guo Yixin , Zhao Fei , Tao Jiahua , Jiang Jinchun , Zhang Jungang , Yang Jianping , Hu Zhigao , Chu Junhao
Published: January 2019

Recently, inorganic perovskite CsPbI2Br has gained much attention for photovoltaic applications owing to its excellent thermal stability. However, low device performance and high open‐voltage loss, which are the result of its intrinsic trap states, are hindering its progress. Herein, planar CsPbI2Br solar cells with enhanced performance and stability were demonstrated by incorporating rubidium (Rb) cations. The Rb‐doped CsPbI2Br film exhibited excellent crystallinity, pinhole‐free surface morphology, and enhanced optical absorbance. By using low‐cost carbon electrodes to replace the organic hole‐transportation layer and metal electrode, an excellent efficiency of 12 % was achieved with a stabilized efficiency of over 11 % owing to the suppressed trap states and recombination in the CsPbI2Br film. Additionally, the annealing temperature for the Rb‐doped CsPbI2Br film could be as low as 150 °C with a comparable high efficiency over 11 %, which is one of the best efficiencies reported for hole‐transporting‐layer‐free all‐inorganic perovskite solar cells. These results could provide new opportunities for high‐performance and stable inorganic CsPbI2Br solar cells by employing A‐site cation substitution.
Flow Cytometry Identifies a Spectrum of Maturation in Myeloid Neoplasms Having Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Differentiation
Authors: Hamadeh Fatima , Awadallah Amad , Meyerson Howard J. , Beck Rose C.
Published: January 2019

Background

Neoplasms derived from plasmacytoid dendritic cells (PDCs) are currently divided into two broad categories: mature PDC proliferations associated with myeloid neoplasms (MPDMN) and blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN); only BPDCN is recognized in the WHO 2016 classification of hematopoietic neoplasms. We present seven patients with high grade myeloid neoplasms (MNs), mostly acute leukemias, having a spectrum of PDC differentiation and not fitting with MPDMN or BPDCN.

Methods

We analyzed seven MN cases having increased myeloblasts and prominent CD56‐negative PDC proliferations comprising 5–26% of bone marrow or blood cellularity as measured by flow cytometry. The cases included five acute myeloid leukemia (three FAB M4 subtype, two unclassified), one mixed phenotype acute leukemia, and one case of unclassified MN.

Results

Six cases demonstrated immunophenotypic evidence of PDC differentiation from leukemic blasts, based on variable expression of CD34, CD45, CD123, and CD304 by the leukemic cells. Four cases had circulating PDC populations in blood. None of the cases met clinical or pathologic criteria for BPDCN. Morphologic review was available for four acute leukemia cases and demonstrated either nodular or interstitial infiltrates of PDCs. All cases had an aggressive clinical course, and three cases had FLT3 ITD mutation.

Conclusions

These cases demonstrate that high grade MNs, in particular AML, can exhibit PDC differentiation, with or without monocytic differentiation, in a manner distinct from MPDMN or BPDCN. The existence of MNs with immature PDC proliferations suggests that there is a broader spectrum of PDC‐associated neoplasms than currently recognized. © 2019 International Clinical Cytometry Society
Lessons from a modern carbonate sandbody – A personal experience of comparative sedimentology
Authors: Harris Paul (Mitch)
Published: January 2019

The notion that examination of modern environments can help one better decipher ancient deposits does not seem so unusual, but this view was incrementally developed through decades of studies that have shown just that. Presented here is a brief example of comparative sedimentology with emphasis placed on the lessons learned from the study of a modern ooid sandbody that heightens one's ability to describe and interpret analogous subsurface settings. Core transects and surface sediment mapping in the Joulters sandbody of Great Bahama Bank illustrate the three‐dimensional characteristics of an upward coarsening and shallowing cycle and highlight the internal complexity of a sandbody through time and space. This modern example graphically highlights difficulties in interpretation and correlation of grainstone cycles in analogous subsurface platform carbonate reservoirs.
Association of high circulating testosterone with increased glycaemic variability in type 2 diabetes: A cross‐sectional study in China
Authors: Ding Bo , Sun Rui , Zhai Xiao‐fang , Lu Ting‐ting , Cheng Liang , Li Feng‐fei , Hu Yun , Ma Jian‐hua
Published: January 2019

Background

Testosterone affects insulin resistance, but the effect of testosterone treatment on type 2 diabetes (T2D) remains controversial. We aimed to investigate the association between circulating total testosterone (TT) and glycaemic variability using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in patients with T2D.

Methods

A total of 248 men with T2D were enrolled in the study. Clinical characteristics and plasma for glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and C‐peptide assessment were collected. TT was measured using a chemiluminescent immunometric assay. All patients were subjected to a 3‐day CGM before making adjustments for hypoglycaemic therapy.

Results

TT positively correlated with the standard deviation of mean blood glucose (SDBG) (P < 0.05), especially in older patients. Linear regression analysis showed that SDBG was associated with HbA1c (β = 0.354, P < 0.001) and TT (β = 0.164, P = 0.008) after adjusting for age, duration of diabetes, body mass index, fasting/postprandial C‐peptide, and use of different hypoglycaemic drugs. The cut‐off value of TT for predicting glycaemic variability was 14.76 mmol/L according to receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. SDBG, the coefficient of variation, the incremental area under the curve of glucose (AUC) > 10 mmol/L, and AUC night were increased in the group with TT > 14.76 nmol/L (P < 0.01 for all variables). Body mass index and fasting/postprandial C‐peptide were lower in the group with TT > 14.76 nmol/L than in the group with TT ≤ 14.76 nmol/L (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Circulating TT levels should be assessed in patients with T2D in addition to HbA1c for predicting glycaemic variability. More frequent blood glucose monitoring or CGM is suggested for patients with T2D and high testosterone levels.

Clinical trials registration: NCT03519529, ClinicalTrials.gov
Actor Constellation Games in Policy Implementation—The Case of Switzerland
Authors: Knoepfel Peter
Published: January 2019

This analytical essay deals with the policy resource organization which policy actors employ to influence policy implementation activities. We speak of games of actor constellations that potentially influence the content of policy implementation activities. In the last 50 years, the scope of these games has broadened due to their increasing complexity. Initially shaped as simple bilateral structures formed by policy targets and the state, these constellations have become trilateral, encompassing the policy beneficiaries and, subsequently, affected the third party groups as well as the supporting or opposing actors within the public administration. Based on imaginable and/or empirically existent cases, this contribution establishes thirteen types of actor constellation games which are presented with concrete examples.
Uptake of hydrophobic organic compounds, including organochlorine pesticides, polybrominated diphenyl ethers, and perfluoroalkyl acids in fish and blue crabs of the lower Passaic River, New Jersey, USA
Authors: Khairy Mohammed A. , Noonan Gregory O. , Lohmann Rainer
Published: January 2019

The bioavailability and bioaccumulation of sedimentary hydrophobic organic compounds (HOCs) is of concern at contaminated sites. Passive samplers have emerged as a promising tool to measure the bioavailability of sedimentary HOCs and possibly to estimate their bioaccumulation. We thus analyzed HOCs including organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins/furans (PCDD/Fs) in sediment, porewater, and river water using low-density polyethylene passive samplers and in 11 different finfish species and blue crab from the lower Passaic River. In addition, perfluorinated alkyl acids (PFAAs) were measured in grab water samples, sediment, and fish. Best predictors of bioaccumulation in biota were either porewater concentrations (for PCBs and OCPs) or sediment organic carbon (PBDEs and PFAAs), including black carbon (OCPs, PCBs, and some PCDD/F congeners)–normalized concentrations. Measured lipid-based concentrations of the majority of HOCs exceeded the chemicals’ activities in porewater by at least 2-fold, suggesting dietary uptake. Trophic magnification factors were >1 for moderately hydrophobic analytes (log octanol–water partitioning coefficient [KOW] = 6.5–8.2) with low metabolic transformation rates (<0.01 d−1), including longer alkyl chain PFAAs. For analytes with lower (4.5–6.5) and higher (>8.2) KOWs, metabolic transformation was more important in reducing trophic magnification. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:872–882. © 2019 SETAC
Coastal dune hydrology and its influence on maritime occupation sites (12–0.2 ka) in a semiarid island, San Miguel, California, USA
Authors: Peterson Curt D. , Erlandson Jon M.
Published: January 2019

Maritime occupation sites in upland dune settings (10–150 m elevation mean sea level) in San Miguel Island (37 km2 in size), located 40 km offshore of the south‐central California mainland, were analyzed for reported ages, component types, and distances from paleo‐shorelines around the island’s shelf platform. The occupation sites (dated ~12,200 to 200 cal B.P.) include numerous shell middens and lithic scatters. Some sites contain Paleocoastal stemmed points and chipped stone crescents, the latter believed to be used for hunting waterfowl. What prompted the site occupations in the semiarid dune‐covered coastal bluffs and interior‐plateaus that were located 10–150 m above and 1–4 km distant from age‐correlative paleo‐shorelines? Eolianite dune settings in San Miguel include ephemeral freshwater sources from: (a) vernal pond/wetlands in interior plateaus; (b) gullies or creeks in the dune‐covered bluff slopes; (c) springs exposed in current sea cliffs or canyons; and (d) pond/wetlands barraged by sand ramps on the windward bluff slopes and gully drainages. These freshwater features are proposed to have attracted humans and their hunting, shellfish processing, and plant gathering activities to upland localities, as now preserved above the island’s shelf platform that was submerged by the Holocene marine transgression.
Three Coaching Priorities for Enhancing Teacher Practice in Disciplinary Literacy Instruction in the English Language Arts
Authors: Di Domenico Paula , Elish‐Piper Laurie , Manderino Michael , L'Allier Susan K.
Published: January 2019

Discipline‐specific literacy instruction is key to supporting adolescents’ overall literacy development. Job‐embedded professional development that supports teachers’ discipline‐specific literacy instruction via instructional coaching is a promising approach to enacting disciplinary literacy instruction in English language arts (ELA) classrooms. Findings from a multiyear study of instructional coaching yielded three priorities that coaches can use as a guide when collaborating with ELA teachers: ensuring that collaboration is sustained over time, considering teachers’ knowledge to create a coaching plan, and adopting a distributed expertise approach to create a collaboration in which both coach and teacher have ownership in the process. Examples from the multiyear study and suggestions for coaches’ practice when working with ELA teachers are shared.
Signaling Crosstalk of FHIT, p53, and p38 in etoposide‐induced apoptosis in MCF‐7 cells
Authors: Khedri Azam , Khaghani Shahnaz , Kheirollah Alireza , Babaahmadi‐Rezaei Hossein , Shadboorestan Amir , Zangooei Mohammad , Afra Hajar Shokri , Meshkani Reza , Ghahremani Mohammad Hossein
Published: January 2019

Fragile histidine trail (FHIT) is a tumor suppressor in response to DNA damage which has been deleted in various tumors. However, the signaling mechanisms and interactions of FHIT with regard to apoptotic proteins including p53 and p38 in the DNA damage‐induced apoptosis are not well described. In the present study, we used etoposide‐induced DNA damage in MCF‐7 as a model to address these crosstalks. The time course study showed that the expression of FHIT, p53, and p38MAPK started after 1 hour following etoposide treatment. FHIT overexpression led to increase p53 expression, p38 activation, and augmented apoptosis following etoposide‐induced DNA damage compared to wild‐type cells. However, FHIT knockdown blocked p53 expression, delayed p38 activation, and completely inhibited etoposide‐induced apoptosis. Inhibition of p38 activity prevented induction of p53, FHIT, and apoptosis in this model. Thus, activation of p38 upon etoposide treatment leads to increase in FHIT and p53 expression. In p53 knockdown MCF‐7, the FHIT induction was hampered but p38 activation was induced in lower doses of etoposide. In p53 knockdown cells, inhibition of p38 induced FHIT expression and apoptosis. Our data demonstrated that the exposure of MCF‐7 cells to etoposide increases apoptosis through a mechanism involving the activation of the p38‐FHIT‐p53 pathway. Moreover, our findings suggest signaling interaction for these pathways may represent a promising therapy for breast cancer.
Overexpression of LINC00037 represses cervical cancer progression by activating mTOR signaling pathway
Authors: Yuan Li‐Yun , Qin Xiaomin , Li Lin , Zhou Jinting , Zhou Min , Li Xianxian , Xu Ying , Cheng Li , Xing Hui
Published: January 2019

Long non‐coding RNAs have been reported to play crucial roles in tumorigenesis including cervical cancer. LINC00037 has been identified as a significant regulator in several cancers. Our study was aimed to investigate the function of LINC00037 in cervical cancer progression. LINC00037 was significantly downregulated in human cervical cancer cells (HeLa, HCC94, HT‐3, Caski, and SiHa cells) compared with the ectocervical epithelial cells (End1/E6E7 cells). Overexpression of LINC00037 was able to inhibit cervical cancer cell proliferation, induce cell apoptosis, and restrain the cell migration/invasion capacity. Reversely, knockdown of LINC00037 exhibited an opposite process in vitro. mTOR has been recognized as an atypical serine/threonine kinase that is involved in regulating significant cellular functions. In our present study, we observed that the mTOR signaling pathway was strongly activated in human cervical cancer cells. Meanwhile, upregulation of LINC00037 contributed to the inactivation of mTOR signaling whereas downregulation of LINC00037 activated the pathway. Subsequently, in vivo animal models using SiHa cells were established and we proved that LINC00037 repressed cervical cancer progression via targeting the mTOR signaling pathway. All these findings implied that LINC00037 could regulate cervical cancer pathogenesis via mTOR signaling. In conclusion, a novel role of LINC00037 was manifested in cervical cancer progression.
β3‐adrenergic receptor activation plays an important role in the depressed myocardial contractility via both elevated levels of cellular free Zn2+ and reactive nitrogen species
Authors: Tuncay Erkan , Olgar Yusuf , Durak Aysegul , Degirmenci Sinan , Bitirim Ceylan Verda , Turan Belma
Published: January 2019

Role of β3‐AR dysregulation, as either cardio‐conserving or cardio‐disrupting mediator, remains unknown yet. Therefore, we examined the molecular mechanism of β3‐AR activation in depressed myocardial contractility using a specific agonist CL316243 or using β3‐AR overexpressed cardiomyocytes. Since it has been previously shown a possible correlation between increased cellular free Zn2+ ([Zn2+]i) and depressed cardiac contractility, we first demonstrated a relation between β3‐AR activation and increased [Zn2+]i, parallel to the significant depolarization in mitochondrial membrane potential in rat ventricular cardiomyocytes. Furthermore, the increased [Zn2+]i induced a significant increase in messenger RNA (mRNA) level of β3‐AR in cardiomyocytes. Either β3‐AR activation or its overexpression could increase cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) levels, in line with significant changes in nitric oxide (NO)‐pathway, including increases in the ratios of pNOS3/NOS3 and pGSK‐3β/GSK‐3β, and PKG expression level in cardiomyocytes. Although β3‐AR activation induced depression in both Na+‐ and Ca2+‐currents, the prolonged action potential (AP) seems to be associated with a marked depression in K+‐currents. The β3‐AR activation caused a negative inotropic effect on the mechanical activity of the heart, through affecting the cellular Ca2+‐handling, including its effect on Ca2+‐leakage from sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR). Our cellular level data with β3‐AR agonism were supported with the data on high [Zn2+]i and β3‐AR protein‐level in metabolic syndrome (MetS)‐rat heart. Overall, our present data can emphasize the important deleterious effect of β3‐AR activation in cardiac remodeling under pathological condition, at least, through a cross‐link between β3‐AR activation, NO‐signaling, and [Zn2+]i pathways. Moreover, it is interesting to note that the recovery in ER‐stress markers with β3‐AR agonism in hyperglycemic cardiomyocytes is favored. Therefore, how long and to which level the β3‐AR agonism would be friend or become foe remains to be mystery, yet.
Computed microtomography evaluation of calcium hydroxide‐based root canal dressing removal from oval root canals by different methods of irrigation
Authors: de Oliveira Renata L. , Guerisoli Danilo M. Z. , Duque Jussaro A. , Alcalde Murilo P. , Onoda Hélio K. , Domingues Felipe H. Fassina , Vivan Rodrigo R. , Duarte Marco A. H.
Published: January 2019

The aim of this study was to evaluate the capacity of conventional irrigation, passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI), and Easy Clean for removing calcium hydroxide‐based root canal dressing from oval root canals. Thirty mandibular uniradicular incisors with oval canals were used, and subjected to chemical–mechanical preparation with Reciproc R40 instruments. The main canal was filled with a paste based on Ca(OH)2 P.A., iodoform and propylene glycol in the ratio of 3:1:1. The teeth were stored in 100% humidity at a temperature of 37°C for 14 days. Afterwards, the teeth were divided into three groups (n = 10) according to the method of irrigation used (conventional irrigation, PUI, and Easy Clean). The specimens were analyzed by computed microtomography at three time intervals: before placing the root canal dressing, with the root canal dressing in place, and after application of the irrigation methods for removing it. The data were submitted to Kruskal–Wallis and Dunn tests for analyzing the canal as a whole, and Friedman and Dunn for analyzing the root thirds. The results showed that conventional irrigation was less efficient for removing the root canal dressing in comparison with the methods that agitated the irrigant solution (p < .05). When the root canal was analyzed as a whole, Easy Clean, and PUI were similar (p > .05). In analysis of the thirds, Easy Clean was more efficient than conventional irrigation in all the thirds, while PUI showed this behavior only in the cervical third (p < .05). The authors concluded that in oval canals, none of the irrigation methods were capable of removing all the root canal dressing, however, the methods that agitated the irrigant solution were more efficient than conventional irrigation.
Cervical spine findings on MRI in people with neck pain compared with pain‐free controls: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Farrell Scott F. , Smith Ashley D. , Hancock Mark J. , Webb Alexandra L. , Sterling Michele
Published: January 2019

Background

There is uncertainty regarding the clinical significance of findings on MRI in patients with whiplash associated disorder (WAD) or nonspecific neck pain (NSNP).

Purpose

To compare the presence of cervical spine MRI findings in people with WAD or NSNP with pain‐free controls.

Study Type

Systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Population

Adults with WAD (n = 994), NSNP (n = 715), or pain‐free controls (n = 2323).

Field Strength

0.5T, 1.5T, and 3.0T.

Assessment

Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science, SCOPUS, and Cochrane CENTRAL databases were searched. Two independent reviewers identified studies for inclusion and extracted data. Risk of bias was assessed using the Quality Assessment Tool for Observational Cohort and Cross‐Sectional Studies. Overall quality of the evidence from meta‐analysis was assessed using the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach.

Statistical Tests

Meta‐analysis was performed using a random‐effects model to calculate odds ratios or standard mean differences (SMDs) for binary and continuous data.

Results

In total, 31 studies were included (eight comparing acute WAD to controls, 14 comparing chronic WAD to controls, 12 comparing chronic NSNP to controls) comprising 4032 participants. Rectus capitis posterior major cross‐sectional area was smaller in people with chronic NSNP than controls (two studies: SMD –1.18 [95% confidence interval [CI] –1.65, –0.71]). The remaining meta‐analysis comparisons showed no group differences in MRI findings. The quality of evidence was mostly low due to small sample sizes and high heterogeneity.

Data Conclusion

Given the typically low‐quality evidence, definitive conclusions cannot be drawn on the presence of MRI findings in individuals with WAD or NSNP compared with pain‐free controls.

Level of Evidence: 3

Technical Efficacy: Stage 3

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018.
High prevalence of enteric viruses associated with acute gastroenteritis in pediatric patients in a low‐income area in Vitória, Southeastern Brazil
Authors: Pratte‐Santos Rodrigo , Miagostovich Marize Pereira , Fumian Túlio Machado , Maciel Ethel Leonor , Martins Sara Angelino , Cassini Sérvio Túlio , Keller Regina
Published: January 2019

Acute gastroenteritis (AGE) is a significant cause of child mortality worldwide. In Brazil, despite the reduction in infant mortality achieved in recent years, many children still die because of undiagnosed AGE. The prevalence, viral load, and circulating genotypes of rotavirus A (RVA), human adenovirus (HAdV), and norovirus GII (NoV GII) were investigated in children with AGE during 12 months in Vitoria, Espírito Santo, Southeastern Brazil. Enteric viruses were detected in stool samples, quantified by quantitative polymerase chain reaction, sequenced, and compared phylogenetically. The overall prevalence was 93.3% (125/134). Cases of single infection (41.8%) and mixed infection (51.5%) were observed; in 21.6% of cases, all the three viruses were detected. RVA had the highest number of copies in all infections. Phylogenetic analysis revealed predominantly the presence of RVA genotype G3, followed by G2 and G9. HAdV clustered within subgroup C, but some samples harbored subgroups A, D, or F. All sequenced NoV‐positive samples clustered within the prevalent genotype GII.4. The high prevalence of RVA, HAdV, and NoV in diarrheal feces clarifies the etiology of AGE in this population, and the presence of RVA in vaccinated children reinforces the importance of monitoring programs to identify the causes of gastroenteritis and contribute to the reliability of diagnosis.
Enteral Docosahexaenoic Acid and Retinopathy of Prematurity: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Bernabe‐García Mariela , Villegas‐Silva Raúl , Villavicencio‐Torres Astrid , Calder Philip C. , Rodríguez‐Cruz Maricela , Maldonado‐Hernández Jorge , Macías‐Loaiza Denisse , López‐Alarcón Mardia , Inda‐Icaza Patricia , Cruz‐Reynoso Leonardo
Published: January 2019

Background

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a disorder of the retina of low‐birth‐weight preterm infants that potentially leads to blindness. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), is protective in experimental models, but its administration as part of parenteral nutrition has shown inconsistent results. We test the effect of enteral DHA to prevent ROP and/or severity and to reduce hospital stay.

Methods

This was a double‐blind parallel clinical trial. Preterm infants (n = 110; 55 per group) with birth weight <1500 g but ≥1000 g were recruited in a neonatal intensive care unit. Infants were randomized to receive 75 mg of DHA/kg/d (DHA group) or high oleic sunflower oil (control group) for 14 days by enteral feeding. The effect of DHA was evaluated on any stage of ROP, severe ROP (stage ≥3) incidence, and hospital stay. Groups were compared with relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI), Fisher's exact test, Student'st‐test, or Mann‐Whitney U‐test, as appropriate. Logistic regression was applied to adjust for confounders.

Results

There was no difference between the DHA and control groups in ROP risk (RR for DHA = 0.79; 95% CI, 0.49–1.27;P= 0.33). However, patients who received DHA showed lower risk for stage 3 ROP (RR for DHA = 0.66; 95% CI, 0.44–0.99;P= 0.03). After adjusting for confounders, this decreased risk remained significant (adjusted odds ratio = 0.10; 95% CI, 0.011–0.886;P= 0.04). Hospital stay was similar between groups.

Conclusion

Enteral DHA may reduce the incidence of stage 3 ROP.
Raman analysis of strained graphene grown on dewetted cobalt
Authors: Amato Giampiero , Beccaria Federico , Landini Elisabetta , Vittone Ettore
Published: January 2019

Graphene grows onto cobalt by means of diffusion of carbon atoms during the isothermal stage of exposure to hydrocarbon precursor, followed by precipitation during cooling. This method, largely applied with nickel catalyst, is known to produce continuous, but not uniform, layers with the concurrent presence of mono‐ and poly‐graphene areas. With the aid of Raman mapping of graphene still lying onto its catalyst, we are able to consider the possible origins for the observed distortions of the phonon modes with respect to the well‐known picture of the monolayer material. Optical effects, doping, the presence of multilayered islands, and strain are kept into account. It is shown that some observations can be interpreted in terms of the occurrence of isotropic strain with the uniaxial component superimposed at the metal discontinuities. Strain is proposed to originate from the difference between the thermal expansion coefficients of graphene and cobalt. The present paper shows that inhomogeneities in graphene grown onto catalysts with high C solubility are not always directly related to excess of precipitation. The observation of strain in as‐grown graphene opens the possibility of tailoring the electronic density of states via strain engineering directly during growth.
Comprehensive multimodal surgical treatment of end‐stage lower extremity lymphedema with toe management: The combined Charles,’ Homan’s, and vascularized lymph node transfer (CHAHOVA) procedures
Authors: Ciudad Pedro , Agko Mouchammed , Huang Tony C. T. , Manrique Oscar J , Chang Wei‐Ling , Nicoli Fabio , Maruccia Michele , Lo Torto Federico , Chen Hung‐Chi
Published: January 2019

Background

End‐stage lower extremity lymphedema (LEL) poses a particularly formidable challenge to surgeons as multiple pathological processes are at work. Because single modality treatment is often unsuccessful, we devised a comprehensive multimodal surgical treatment. The aim of this study is to share the technical considerations and examine the clinical outcomes of this combined approach.

Methods

Between 2013 and 2017, patients with International Society of Lymphology stage III, who underwent the combination treatment of Charles,’ Homan’s procedure with toe management and vascularized lymph node transfer (CHAHOVA), were included in this retrospective study. Outcomes evaluated were limb size, number of infectious episodes, compression garment usage, and rate of complications.

Results

A total of 68 patients were included. With a mean follow‐up of 29 months, the overall circumference reduction rate for the upper thigh and the rest of the extremity was 67.4% (48.2‐88.2%) and 98.1% (88‐100%), respectively. During the follow‐ups, 2 (2.9%) patients experienced episodes of cellulitis and the average number of yearly infections decreased from 4.2 to 1.2 episodes per person. All patients were able to discontinue compression therapy without recurrence of lymphedema. Nine (13.2%) patients reported minor complications.

Conclusion

The combine CHAHOVA in a single‐stage procedure is an effective and safe approach in the end‐stage LEL.
Northern goshawk space use and resource selection
Authors: Moser Brian W. , Garton Edward O.
Published: January 2019

Northern goshawk (Accipiter gentilis) space use is influenced by a number of variables. We used satellite platform transmitter terminals (PTTs) and the Argos system on male (n = 7) and female (n = 12) goshawks to estimate space use in northern Idaho, USA, during 2004–2006. Goshawk home ranges were larger in our study than those in the southwestern United States and comparable to those in more northern latitudes. Male breeding‐season home ranges (5,146 ± 826 ha) were 33% larger than female home ranges (3,859 ± 815 ha). Female home ranges increased >2‐fold during the nonbreeding season. Breeding‐season home range sizes were a function of nesting success and the proportions of cover types within the home range. Male goshawks selected home ranges with smaller proportions and patches of moderately closed forests, and greater edge associated with openings. Female goshawks selected home ranges with smaller proportions and patches of openings, and greater edge densities associated with moderately closed and closed‐canopy forests. Neither male nor female goshawks selected home ranges with greater proportions of closed‐canopy forest than what was available within the study area. Habitat selection estimates differed between actual home range boundaries and nest buffers used as surrogate home ranges. We recommend researchers use actual home ranges when estimating second‐order habitat selection for goshawks. © 2019 The Wildlife Society.