bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Region-Tree-Based Approach for the Verification of Precipitation Forecasts
Authors: Hou Jinyi , Wang Ping
Published: February 2019

This paper describes a region-tree-based precipitation forecast verification approach, which is then used to assess the performance of a numerical model forecast at various scales. In this verification approach, the forecast and observation fields are first represented using region-tree structures. The verification approach consists of three procedures: calculation of spatial structural properties of the forecast and observation trees, matching the forecast tree with the observation tree, and deforming the forecast tree to resemble the observation tree. Based on these procedures, the tree-based verification approach aims at determining the spatial structural differences, displacement errors, and intensity errors between the forecast and the observation at different scales. The behavior of the proposed verification approach is investigated by applications to a standard verification dataset from the spatial forecast verification intercomparison project.
Populism, the International and Methodological Nationalism: Global Order and the Iran–Israel Nexus
Authors: Holliday Shabnam J
Published: February 2019

This article contends that the international is integral to populism. Thus, it calls for populism scholarship to embrace the interconnectivity between the domestic/internal and international/external. By borrowing from Global Historical Sociology, Global International Relations and Ernesto Laclau’s notion of populist discourse, the article puts forward a new conceptual framework for the study of populism that bridges the gap between Comparative Politics and International Relations. It shows how populist discourse simultaneously constructs several aspects of the social world: the actor who is articulating it and its relationship with its own population, that actor’s relationship with others in the international system, and global order. To illustrate its case, it examines populist discourses of Islamic Republic of Iran elites. Their discourses articulate the need to maintain the Islamic Republic’s legitimacy and populist credentials inside and outside Iran, delegitimise Israel, and construct global order. These discourses are grounded in a historical trajectory: the 1979 Revolution.
The Parson’s Country House Poem
Authors: Crow Andrea
Published: February 2019

This article demonstrates how early modern English poet-priest Robert Herrick uses verse form to examine tensions arising from food scarcity. I uncover Herrick’s creation of the “parsonage poem,” a subcategory of the country house poem through which he examines the impossible demands parsons faced in times of dearth. Living on agricultural tithes yet expected to redistribute food to feed their parishes, parsons struggled to measure resources and restrict consumption to make insufficient stores stretch further. Through careful manipulations of meter, rhyme, syntax, and syllable, Herrick articulates the unsustainability of the parson’s position and explores its relationship to declining rural communities.
Evidence for kinesio taping in management of myofascial pain syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Xue-Feng , Liu Lin , Wang Bin-Bin , Liu Xu , Li Ping
Published: February 2019

Objective:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of kinesio taping for managing myofascial pain syndrome in terms of pain intensity, pressure pain threshold, range of motion, muscle strength and disability.

Data sources:

PubMed, EBSCO, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and Physiotherapy Evidence Databases were searched from database inception to November 2018.

Methods:

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that used kinesio taping as the main treatment protocol for participants diagnosed with myofascial pain syndrome were included. Two reviewers independently screened articles, scored methodological quality using Cochrane risk-of-bias tool and extracted data. The primary outcomes were pain intensity, pressure pain threshold and range of motion at post-intervention and follow-up. The secondary outcomes were muscle strength and disability at post-intervention and follow-up.

Data synthesis:

Meta-analyses of 20 RCTs involving 959 patients showed that kinesio taping was more effective than other treatments in reducing pain intensity (mean difference (MD) = 1.06 cm, 95% confidence interval (CI): −1.66 to −0.46 cm, P = 0.006) and increasing range of motion (standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.26, 95% CI: 0.09 to 0.43, P = 0.003) at post-intervention. Kinesio taping was also superior to other non-invasive techniques in relieving pain intensity at follow-up (MD = −0.68 cm, 95% CI: −1.22 to −0.13 cm, P = 0.02). However, there was no detectable effect on disability or function.

Conclusion:

Statistical evidence showed that kinesio taping could be recommended to relieve pain intensity and range of motion for patients with myofascial pain syndrome at post-intervention.
Identification of aberrant gene expression during breast ductal carcinoma in situ progression to invasive ductal carcinoma
Authors: Song Guiqin , He Lang , Yang Xiaolin , Yang Yan , Cai Xiaoming , Liu Kang , Feng Gang
Published: February 2019

Objective

It has been reported that 80% of all breast carcinoma cases are invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC), and 45% to 78% of invasive breast carcinoma cases are associated with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). Therefore, it is important to gain insights into transcriptome changes that occur during DCIS progression to IDC.

Methods

We downloaded Gene Expression Omnibus databases GSE21422 and GSE3893, and performed differentially expressed gene (DEG) analysis and cluster analysis, followed by pathway enrichment analysis and Oncomine analysis.

Results

Twenty-six conserved DEGs were identified in both GSE21422 and GSE3893. These genes are mainly enriched in intermediate filament-based processes, immune responses, Staphylococcus aureus infection response, and phagosomes. Among them, FCGR2A, HLA-DRA, C3AR1, and FYB were reported to be involved in DCIS progression to IDC. High expression of HLA-DRA, C3AR1, and FYB in different types of breast cancer was validated using different Oncomine datasets. Moreover, elevated HLA-DRA and FYB levels were associated with breast cancer recurrence. Importantly, the overexpression of FYB was correlated with breast cancer metastasis.

Conclusions

This study revealed the molecular characteristics associated with progression from DCIS to IDC. It also identified potential biomarkers for DCIS progression to IDC, which will aid breast cancer diagnosis and prevention.
Factors Associated With Knowledge and Comfort Providing Palliative Care: A Survey of Pediatricians in Mexico
Authors: Zuniga-Villanueva Gregorio , Ramirez-GarciaLuna Jose Luis , Weingarten Kevin
Published: February 2019

Background:

Lack of education and training in palliative care has been described to be one of the most important barriers to pediatric palliative care implementation.

Objective:

To examine what factors determine the degree of knowledge and level of comfort Mexican pediatricians have providing pediatric palliative care.

Methods:

A questionnaire that assessed palliative care concepts was developed and applied online to Mexican pediatricians, both generalists and specialists.

Results:

A total of 242 pediatricians responded. The majority had not received palliative care education (92.6%) and felt uncomfortable discussing palliative needs with patients and families (92.1%). The mean score of the questionnaire was 6.8 (±1.4) of 10 correct answers. Knowledge in palliative care was associated with exposure to oncologic patients ( P = .01) and previous palliative care education ( P = .02) but inversely related to the pediatrician’s age ( P = .01). Comfort addressing patient’s palliative care needs was associated with knowledge in palliative care ( P < .01), exposure to oncologic patients ( P = .03), and previous education in palliative care ( P = .02).

Conclusions:

Although Mexican pediatricians have basic knowledge of palliative care concepts, they do not feel comfortable addressing palliative care needs, suggesting that the main barrier for implementing palliative care is not the lack of knowledge but rather feeling uncomfortable when addressing these issues with patients and families. Educational programs should incorporate strategies that could help physicians develop comfort in approaching palliative care patients.
Lymphogranuloma venereum presenting as penile ulcer in two HIV-negative gay men
Authors: Davies Stephen C , Shapiro Jane , Comninos Nicholas B , Templeton David J
Published: February 2019

An epidemic of lymphogranuloma venereum among men who have sex with men (MSM) has persisted in Australia for over a decade and virtually all diagnoses are made from rectal samples. We discuss two cases of human immunodeficiency virus-negative MSM who presented with a penile ulcer. The diagnosis can be made by ensuring a swab of any such ulcer is tested for Chlamydia trachomatis.
Karl Jaspers and Karl Popper: the shared legacy
Authors: Walker Chris
Published: February 2019

Jaspers and Popper have nothing in common beyond the legacy of Immanuel Kant’s philosophy. Popper dismisses Jaspers ‘existentialism’ as nihilistic and historicist; Jaspers never cites Popper. Jaspers describes Kant as ‘the philosopher for me’; Popper is an unorthodox Kantian whose critical rationalism put the finishing touch to Kant. For Kant, knowledge is not a simple copy of reality, but begins with reason’s questioning. Jaspers and Popper too insist that theory has priority over observation. For Jaspers, ‘there is already theory in every fact’; for Popper, ‘every statement has the character of a theory’. Science begins with metaphysical Ideas which become scientific when tested in experience. They differ in Popper’s rejection of induction in favour of falsification, while Jaspers tacitly accepts induction.
Grieving College Students Use of Social Media
Authors: Varga Mary Alice , Varga Matt
Published: February 2019

The purpose of this study was to examine the use of social media among grieving college students. A total of 508 students participated in a survey about their experiences with grieving a loss, the grief effects they experienced, and their use of social media. Approximately 79% of participants experienced a loss within their lifetime and reported having emotional, cognitive, and physical grief effects. Of these participants, 43% used social media to communicate their grief. Participants who reported emotional, cognitive, and physical grief effects were more likely to communicate their grief on social media. Furthermore, 108 open-ended comments about social media use were analyzed and categorized according to The Bereavement and Social Media Use Continuum. Findings indicate that 60% of participants reported using social media in a limited capacity followed by 39% of participants who used social media in a vast capacity. Implications and recommendations for future research are also provided.
Consumer Information Potpourri: Instructional and Operational Variability Among Passenger Vehicle Automated Systems
Authors: Wright Timothy J. , Svancara Austin M. , Horrey William J.
Published: February 2019

Even owners of the most advanced vehicles often have little understanding of the available in-vehicle technology. Accessible safety-critical information and standard instructional and operational components are potential routes to increase drivers’ knowledge. This article presents a review of information obtained from automobile manufacturers’ websites and operator manuals aimed toward passenger vehicle automated system consumers. This review revealed target areas for researchers, manufacturers, and policy makers to consider. Systems offering comparable functionality varied greatly in their nomenclature, type of feedback provided to drivers, and the accessibility of information about the systems. Also, information pertaining to systems limits was difficult to obtain.
Maxillary Pneumosinus Dilatans Presenting With Proptosis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Alatar Abdullah A , AlSuliman Yazeed A , Alrajhi Maha S , Alfawwaz Fahad S
Published: February 2019

Background:

Pneumosinus dilatans (PSD) is a rare pathological paranasal sinus expansion. This condition is usually symptomatic or cosmetically apparent, requiring surgical intervention. Multiple hypotheses have been postulated as to the cause of this condition; however, the precise cause and pathogenesis remain obscure.

Case report and Methods:

An 11-year-old boy presented with right eye bulging and was subsequently found to have PSD of the maxillary sinus. A search was conducted of the PubMed electronic database, using the keywords “pneumosinus dilatans,” “pneum(oco)ele,” “pneum(oc)ele,” “pneum(atoco)ele,” and “air cyst.” Articles published in English were reviewed.

Results:

The literature review identified 29 cases of PSD involving the maxillary sinus. The mean age of presentation was 25 years old. Only the right maxillary sinus was affected in 16 cases, followed by the bilateral sinuses in 7 cases and the left sinus in 6 cases. In 5 cases, all paranasal sinuses, along with the maxillary sinus, were expanded. The most common presenting symptom was facial swelling, which was found in 55% of the cases, followed by proptosis and pain. Computed tomography is the gold standard radiological method for diagnosing PSD.

Conclusions:

Pneumosinus dilatans is a rare condition that is usually symptomatic and requires surgical intervention. The etiology of the disease is attributed to multiple hypotheses, but more studies are needed to explore this condition further.
The OECD and IELS: Redefining early childhood education for the 21st century
Authors: Auld Euan , Morris Paul
Published: February 2019

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has unveiled plans to move into the field of early childhood education through the introduction of the International Early Learning Study (IELS), a new comparative test of five-year olds that is being piloted in three nations. This article explores the dynamics of this new project and serves three purposes. First, we situate IELS within the OECD’s broader agenda in education governance, and with regard to its existing comparative assessments, namely the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA). Second, we identify the main commentaries and critiques of the OECD’s activity and assessments, specifically relating to PISA. In the concluding section we anticipate a possible future when such tests are established in the early childhood education sector and reflect on its possible impact. We argue that the advent of comparative testing of five-year olds heralds an attempt to introduce a new paradigm for early childhood education, one which stresses cognitive skills and children’s role as future sources of human capital.
A Complexity Approach to Treatment of Tense and Agreement Deficits: A Case Study
Authors: De Anda Stephanie , Blossom Megan , Abel Alyson D.
Published: February 2019

The present case study describes a complexity approach to the treatment of tense and agreement deficits in a child (SC, age 3 years and 11 months, male) with a delay in morphosyntax. We investigate whether it is possible to elicit target treatment structures (auxiliary BE in questions) in a child who does not attempt them spontaneously. Furthermore, we ask whether such elicitation promotes accuracy in target form production and generalization to less complex forms as predicted by complexity accounts. Intervention consisted of a play-based drilled task eliciting the target structure. The intervention was effective in eliciting the intervention target, as SC demonstrated increased production of the target and decreased number of prompts required to elicit the target. SC made moderate gains in the spontaneous use of the proposed generalization structures. This preliminary case study demonstrates that a complexity approach may be feasible for treatment of morphosyntax and provides support for future treatment efficacy studies.
Initial experience with the novel EmboTrap II clot-retrieving device for the treatment of ischaemic stroke
Authors: Valente Iacopo , Nappini Sergio , Renieri Leonardo , Pedicelli Alessandro , Lozupone Emilio , Colosimo Cesare , Mangiafico Salvatore , Limbucci Nicola
Published: February 2019

Introduction

We report our experience with the novel stent-type clot-retrieval device EmboTrap II for the revascularization of large artery occlusions in acute ischaemic stroke.

Materials and methods

Twenty-nine patients with acute ischaemic stroke due to large artery occlusion underwent mechanical thrombectomy with the new EmboTrap II in two Italian centres. Clinical, procedural and radiological data were collected. Angiographic results and neurological outcomes were analysed.

Results

Only large vessel occlusions were included. Intravenous thrombolysis was administered in 72% of patients. Successful reperfusion (TICI 2b-3) was obtained in 76% of patients treated exclusively with EmboTrap II. No device-related permanent complications occurred.

Conclusion

In our experience, mechanical thrombectomy with EmboTrap II is safe and effective. Reperfusion rate was comparable to that obtained with other stent retrievers.
Transvenous Approach for the Treatment of cerebral Arteriovenous Malformations (TATAM): Study protocol of a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Fahed Robert , Darsaut Tim E , Mounayer Charbel , Chapot René , Piotin Michel , Blanc Raphaël , Mendes Pereira Vitor , Abud Daniel G , Iancu Dana , Weill Alain , Roy Daniel , Nico Lorena , Nolet Suzanne , Gevry Guylaine , Raymond Jean
Published: February 2019

Background

Transvenous embolisation is a promising technique but the benefits remain uncertain. We hypothesised that transvenous embolisation leads to a higher rate of arteriovenous malformation angiographic occlusion than transarterial embolisation.

Methods

The Transvenous Approach for the Treatment of cerebral Arteriovenous Malformations (TATAM) is an investigator initiated, multicentre, prospective, phase 2, randomised controlled clinical trial. To test the hypothesis that transvenous embolisation is superior to transarterial embolisation for arteriovenous malformation obliteration, 76 patients with arteriovenous malformations considered curable by up to two sessions of endovascular therapy will be randomly allocated 1:1 to treatment with either transvenous embolisation (with or without transarterial embolisation) (experimental arm) or transarterial embolisation alone (control arm). The primary endpoint of the trial is complete arteriovenous malformation occlusion, assessed by catheter cerebral angiography. Complete occlusions will be confirmed at 3 months, while incompletely occluded arteriovenous malformations, considered treatment failures, will then be eligible for complementary treatments by surgery, radiation therapy, or even transvenous embolisation. Standard procedural safety outcomes will also be assessed. Patient selection will be validated by a case selection committee, and participating centres with limited experience in transvenous embolisation will be proctored.

Discussion

The TATAM trial is a transparent research framework designed to offer a promising but still unvalidated treatment to selected arteriovenous malformation patients. Clinical Trial Registration-URL: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov . Unique identifier: NCT03691870.
Minding the Gap: Using an Applied Research Center to Improve Student Learning
Authors: Smell Adrianna , Packard Josh
Published: February 2019

Universities are under increasing pressure both internally and externally to demonstrate student learning outcomes generally and in the liberal arts and social sciences specifically. Internally, students and others often complain about the lack of direct connection between what they learn in the classroom and what happens, or what they perceive happens, in the real world. In addition, universities are often required to demonstrate to state and federal authorities the value of liberal arts and social science education. In this study, we use in-depth interviews to demonstrating the value of an Applied Research Center (ARC) to help communicate value to stakeholders, close learning gaps, and foster university-community partnerships. Our findings suggest that an ARC can play an integral role in reinforcing student learning outcomes, increasing student career success, and establish disciplinary value to a variety of constituents.
Frailty Questionnaire Is Not a Strong Prognostic Factor for Functional Outcomes in Hip or Knee Arthroplasty Patients
Authors: Meessen Jennifer M. T. A. , Fiocco Marta , Leichtenberg Claudia S. , Vliet Vlieland Thea P. M. , Slagboom P. Eline , Nelissen Rob G. H. H.
Published: February 2019

Introduction:

Up to 33% and 25% of patients with end-stage hip and knee osteoarthritis (OA) are considered frail by the Groningen Frailty Indicator (GFI). This study aims to assess whether frail patients have lower functional gains after arthroplasty and to assess GFI as a tool to discriminate between good and adverse change score.

Materials and Methods:

Patients with end-stage hip/knee OA scheduled for arthroplasty were recruited from the Longitudinal Leiden Orthopaedics Outcomes of Osteo-Arthritis Study. Functional outcome was measured as change score on the Hip Osteoarthritis Outcome Score/Knee Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS/KOOS), by subtracting preoperative score from 1-year postsurgery score and then dichotomized based on a cutoff of 20 points. For each HOOS/KOOS subscale, 3 models were estimated: GFI univariate (model 1), GFI and baseline score (model 2), and baseline score univariate (model 3). A receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to assess the discriminative ability of each model.

Results:

Eight hundred five patients with end-stage hip OA (31.4% frail) and 640 patients with end-stage knee OA (25.4% frail) were included. Frail patients were older, had a higher body mass index, had more comorbidities, and lived more often alone. Persons considered frail by GFI had significant lower baseline score; however, except for “function in sports and recreation” and “quality of life,” change scores were similar in frail and nonfrail persons. The discriminatory value of GFI was negligible for all HOOS/KOOS subscales. Baseline score, however, was adequate to discriminate between total knee arthroplasty patients with more or less than twice the minimally clinically important difference on KOOS symptoms subscale (area under the curve = 0.802).

Discussion/Conclusion:

Although frail patients with OA have lower functioning scores at baseline, the change scores on HOOS/KOOS subscales are similar for both frail and nonfrail patients. Exploring other heath assessements may improve patient-specific outcome prediction.
Asymmetric Fixed-effects Models for Panel Data
Authors: Allison Paul D.
Published: February 2019

Standard fixed-effects methods presume that effects of variables are symmetric: The effect of increasing a variable is the same as the effect of decreasing that variable but in the opposite direction. This is implausible for many social phenomena. York and Light showed how to estimate asymmetric models by estimating first-difference regressions in which the difference scores for the predictors are decomposed into positive and negative changes. In this article, I show that there are several aspects of their method that need improvement. I also develop a data-generating model that justifies the first-difference method but can be applied in more general settings. In particular, it can be used to construct asymmetric logistic regression models.
Malglycemia is associated with poor outcomes in pediatric and adolescent hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients
Authors: Sopfe Jenna , Pyle Laura , Keating Amy K. , Campbell Kristen , Liu Arthur K. , Wadwa R. Paul , Verneris Michael R. , Giller Roger H. , Forlenza Gregory P.
Published: February 2019

Malglycemia (hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, and/or glycemic variability) in adult hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients is associated with increased infection, graft-versus-host disease, organ dysfunction, delayed engraftment, and mortality. Malglycemia has not been studied in pediatric HSCT recipients. This study aimed to characterize the incidence and consequences of malglycemia in this population. Medical records for a cohort of 344 patients, age 0 to 30 years, who underwent first HSCT from 2007 to 2016 at Children’s Hospital Colorado were retrospectively reviewed. Glucose data were analyzed in intervals and assessed for potential risk factors and associated outcomes. Malglycemia occurred in 43.9% of patients. Patients with a day 0 to 100 mean glucose of 100 to 124 mg/dL had a 1.76-fold (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.10-2.82; P = .02) increased risk of death and patients with a day 0 to 100 mean glucose ≥ 125 mg/dL had a 7.06-fold (95% CI, 3.84-12.99; P < .0001) increased risk of death compared with patients with a day 0 to 100 mean glucose < 100 mg/dL. For each 10 mg/dL increase in pre-HSCT glucose, there was a 1.11-fold (95% CI, 1.04-1.18; P = .0013) increased risk of post-HSCT infection. These adverse impacts of malglycemia occurred independent of transplant type, graft-versus-host disease, and steroid therapy. Malglycemia in the pediatric HSCT population is independently associated with significantly increased risk of morbidity and mortality. Further research is required to evaluate the utility of glucose control to mitigate these relationships and improve HSCT outcomes. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT03482154.
Identifying Cancer-Directed Surgeries in Medicare Claims: A Validation Study Using SEER-Medicare Data
Authors: Lavery Jessica A. , Lipitz-Snyderman Allison , Li Diane G. , Bach Peter B. , Panageas Katherine S.
Published: February 2019

Purpose

Medicare claims provide a rich data source for large-scale quality assessment because data are available for all beneficiaries nationally. For cancer surgery, the absence of information regarding site of cancer and date of diagnosis on an administrative claim necessitates testing to ensure accurate quality assessment and public reporting.

Methods

Using the SEER Medicare–linked database as the gold standard, we developed and tested an approach to identify cancer-directed surgeries from Medicare fee-for-service claims alone. Our analysis evaluated two questions: (1) Can we identify a large percentage of patients who underwent a cancer-directed surgery using only Medicare claims? (2) Of all patients identified as having undergone a cancer-directed surgery, what percentage had cancer? We evaluated this approach for 17 primary cancer sites.

Results

The number of Medicare beneficiaries diagnosed with their first cancer during the years 2011 to 2013 and who underwent cancer-directed surgery ranged from 45 patients (bones and joints) to 20,163 patients (breast). The percentage of cancer-directed surgeries identified using Medicare claims alone ranged from 62% (skin melanoma) to 94% (prostate). For all but three cancer sites (skin melanoma, thyroid, and urinary bladder), more than 80% of cancer-directed surgeries were identified using our approach. Of all surgeries identified, more than 90% were for patients with cancer.

Conclusion

Identifying patients who underwent a cancer-directed surgery from Medicare claims is feasible for many cancer sites, although careful consideration needs to be given to the validity of each site. Our findings support the use of Medicare claims for large-scale quality assessment of cancer surgery by disease site.
Neoplasm Risk Among Individuals With a Pathogenic Germline Variant in DICER1
Authors: Stewart Douglas R. , Best Ana F. , Williams Gretchen M. , Harney Laura A. , Carr Ann G. , Harris Anne K. , Kratz Christian P. , Dehner Louis P. , Messinger Yoav H. , Rosenberg Philip S. , Hill D. Ashley , Schultz Kris Ann P.
Published: February 2019

Purpose

DICER1 syndrome is an autosomal-dominant, pleiotropic tumor-predisposition disorder caused by pathogenic germline variants in DICER1. We sought to quantify risk, hazard rates, and the probability of neoplasm incidence accounting for competing risks (“cumulative incidence”) of neoplasms (benign and malignant) and standardized incidence ratios for malignant tumors in individuals with DICER1 pathogenic variation.

Patients and Methods

We combined data from three large cohorts of patients who carry germline pathogenic variation in DICER1. To reduce ascertainment bias, we distinguished probands from nonprobands. Neoplasm diagnoses were confirmed by review of pathology reports and/or central review of surgical pathology materials. Standardized cancer incidence ratios were determined relative to the SEER program, which does not capture all DICER1-associated neoplasms. For all malignancies and benign tumors (“neoplasms,” excluding type Ir pleuropulmonary blastoma and thyroid nodules), we used the Kaplan-Meier method and nonparametric cumulative incidence curves to estimate neoplasm-free survival.

Results

We calculated the age at first neoplasm diagnosis (systematically ascertained cancers plus DICER1-associated neoplasms pleuropulmonary blastoma, cystic nephroma, and nasal chondromesenchymal hamartoma) in 102 female and male nonproband DICER1 carriers. By age 10 years, 5.3% (95% CI, 0.6% to 9.7%) of nonproband DICER1 carriers had developed a neoplasm (females, 4.0%; males, 6.6%). By age 50 years, 19.3% (95% CI, 8.4% to 29.0%) of nonprobands had developed a neoplasm (females, 26.5%; males, 10.2%). After age 10 years, female risk was elevated compared with male risk. Standardized cancer incidence ratio analysis of 102 nonproband DICER1 carriers, which represented 3,344 person-years of observation, showed significant cancer excesses overall, particularly of gynecologic and thyroid cancers.

Conclusion

This work provides the first quantitative analysis of site-specific neoplasm risk and excess malignancy risk in 102 systematically characterized nonproband DICER1 carriers. Our findings inform DICER1 syndrome phenotype, natural history, and genetic counseling.
Ultraviolet B-induced Otx2 expression in lens epithelial cells promotes epithelial–mesenchymal transition
Authors: Yoshitomi Yasuo , Osada Hiromi , Satake Haruka , Kojima Masami , Saito-Takatsuji Hidehito , Ikeda Takayuki , Yoshitake Yoshino , Ishigaki Yasuhito , Kubo Eri , Sasaki Hiroshi , Yonekura Hideto
Published: February 2019

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation of eyes is a major risk factor for cataractogenesis, although the molecular mechanisms underlying in this process remain poorly understood and genes that are affected by UV radiation have not been fully identified. In this study, we examined the UV-related gene regulation in lens epithelial cells (LECs) of mouse eyes and investigated the molecular mechanisms of UV-triggered cataractogenesis. Forty-one genes were significantly upregulated in LECs following UVB exposure in vivo in two independent experiments. Among these, Otx2 was strongly upregulated in LECs, suggesting that it may act as an upstream regulator of UVB-induced changes in gene expression. Accordingly, Otx2 overexpression in LECs in vitro induced morphological changes in cell shapes. Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related molecules, such as TGFβ2, αSMA, and fibronectin were upregulated in Otx2-overexpressing LECs, concomitant with suppression of lens fiber cell marker genes, such as CRYAA and DNASEIIB. In vitro experiments suggested that UVB upregulated Otx2 through hydrogen peroxide generation. Aberrant upregulation of Otx2 in LECs following UV irradiation induces the EMT and alteration of the lens cell characters, likely contributing to cataractogenesis.
Mutation of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (mitf) in zebrafish sensitizes for glomerulopathy
Authors: Müller-Deile Janina , Schenk Heiko , Niggemann Philipp , Bolaños-Palmieri Patricia , Teng Beina , Higgs Alysha , Staggs Lynne , Haller Hermann , Schroder Patricia , Schiffer Mario
Published: February 2019

Different glomerular diseases that affect podocyte homeostasis can clinically present as nephrotic syndrome with massive proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, hyperlipidemia and edema. Up to now no drugs that specifically target the actin cytoskeleton of podocytes are on the market and model systems for library screenings to develop anti-proteinuric drugs are of high interest. We developed a standardized proteinuria model in zebrafish using puromycin aminonucleoside (PAN) via treatment in the fish water to allow for further drug testing to develop anti-proteinuric drugs for the treatment of glomerular diseases. We noticed that fish that carry the nacre-mutation show a significantly higher susceptibility for the disruption of the glomerular filtration barrier following PAN treatment, which results in a more pronounced proteinuria phenotype. Nacre zebrafish inherit a mutation yielding a truncated version of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor/ melanogenesis associated transcription factor (mitf). We hypothesized that the nacre mutation may lead to reduced formin expression and defects in cytoskeletal rearrangement. Based on the observations in zebrafish, we carried out a PAN treatment on cultured human podocytes after knockdown with MITF siRNA causing a rearrangement of the actin cytoskeleton.
External mechanical work done during the acceleration stage of maximal sprint running and its association with running performance
Authors: Matsuo Akifumi , Mizutani Mirai , Nagahara Ryu , Fukunaga Testuo , Kanehisa Hiroaki
Published: February 2019

How external mechanical work done during maximal acceleration sprint running changes with increasing running velocity and is associated with running performance remains unknown. This study aimed to elucidate them. In twelve young males, work done at each step over 50 m from the start was calculated from mechanical energy changes in horizontal anterior-posterior and vertical directions and was divided into that in each of braking (negWkapand negWv, respectively) and propulsive (posWkap and posWv, respectively) phases. The maximal running velocity (Vmax) appeared at 35.87±7.76 m and the time required to run 50 m (T50m) was 7.11±0.54 s. At 80% Vmax or higher, posWkap largely decreased and negWkap abruptly increased. The change in the difference between posWkap and |negWkap| (ΔWkap) at every step was relatively small at 70% Vmax or lower. Total work done over 50 m was 82.4±7.5 J/kg for posWkap, 36.2±4.4 J/kg for |negWkap|, 14.3±1.9 J/kg for posWv, and 10.4±1.2 J/kg for |negWv|. The total ΔWkap over 50 m was more strongly correlated with T50m (r=−0.946, P<0.0001) than the corresponding associations for the other work variables. These results indicate that in maximal sprint running over 50 m, work done during the propulsive phase in the horizontal anterior-posterior direction accounts for the majority of the total external work done during the acceleration stage, and maximizing it while suppressing work done during the braking phase is essential to achieve a high running performance.
In situquantification of individual mRNA transcripts in melanocytes discloses gene regulation of relevance to speciation
Authors: Wu Chi-Chih , Klaesson Axel , Buskas Julia , Ranefall Petter , Mirzazadeh Reza , Söderberg Ola , Wolf Jochen B. W.
Published: February 2019

Functional validation of candidate genes involved in adaptation and speciation remains challenging. We here exemplify the utility of a method quantifying individual mRNA transcripts in revealing the molecular basis of divergence in feather pigment synthesis during early-stage speciation in crows. Using a padlock probe assay combined with rolling circle amplification, we quantified cell type specific gene expression in the histological context of growing feather follicles. Expression of Tyrosinase Related Protein 1 (TYRP1), Solute Carrier Family 45 member 2 (SLC45A2) and Hematopoietic Prostaglandin D Synthase (HPGDS) was melanocyte-limited and significantly reduced in follicles from hooded crow explaining the substantially lower eumelanin content in grey vs. black feathers. The central upstream Melanocyte Inducing Transcription Factor (MITF) only showed differential expression specific to melanocytes - a feature not captured by bulk RNA-seq. Overall, this study provides insight into the molecular basis of an evolutionary young transition in pigment synthesis, and demonstrates the power of histologically explicit, statistically substantiated single-cell gene expression quantification for functional genetic inference in natural populations.
Does juvenile hormone prompt males to oxidative stress?
Authors: Martínez-Lendech Norma , Osorio-Beristain Marcela , Franco Bernardo , Pedraza-Reyes Mario , Obregón Armando , Contreras-Garduño Jorge
Published: February 2019

In invertebrates, it has been recently reported that secondary sexual characteristics (SSC) reflect the antioxidant defense of their bearers, but it is not known what physiological link maintains the honesty of those signals. Here, we use the damselfly Hetaerina americana to test whether Juvenile Hormone plays such a role. First, we analyzed whether oxidative damage is a real threat in natural damselfly populations by examining the accumulation of oxidized guanines as a function of age in males. Then, we injected paraquat (a pro-oxidant agent) and added the Juvenile Hormone analog Methoprene (JHa) to the experimental group and the JHa vehicle (acetone) to the control group, to determine whether JHa increases the levels of pro-oxidants and antioxidants. We found that DNA oxidation increased with age, and levels of hydrogen peroxide and superoxide dismutase, but not catalase or glutathione, were elevated in the JHa group compared to the control group. We propose that Juvenile Hormone is a mediator of the relationship between SSC and antioxidant capacity and based on the literature, we know that JHa suppresses immune response. We therefore suggest that Juvenile Hormone is a molecular mediator of the general health of males, which is reflected in their SSC.
Preparedness components of health systems in the Eastern Mediterranean Region for effective responses to dust and sand storms: a systematic review
Authors: Allahbakhshi Kiyoumars , Khorasani-Zavareh Davoud , Khani Jazani Reza , Ghomian Zohreh
Published: February 2019

Background:Dust and Sand Storm (DSS), according to estimates by global reports, will increase dramatically in the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR). Numerous health problems caused by DSS will be severely affected regions and vulnerable groups. This study aimed to identify the components of the preparedness of health systems for the DSS phenomenon in EMR.

Methods:In this systematic review, the peer-reviewed papers in four electronic databases, including Medline through PubMed, Scopus, ISI Web of Science and the Cochrane library, as well as available grey literature, were searched and selected. The research process was carried out by including papers whose results were related to the potential health effects caused by desert dusts in EMR. Was used the combination of three groups of keywords: the exposure factor, health effects as outcomes, and the countries located in EMR. The focus was on the PRISMA checklist, with no time limitations until December 2017. Finally, through 520 related citations, 30 articles were included. Descriptive and thematic content analyses were evaluated.

Results:The preparedness components were divided into three and ten main categories and subcategories, respectively. The three categories covered the areas of DSS hazard identification, planning and policy-making, and risk assessment.

Conclusions:Recognition of the health system preparedness factors for DSS in EMR will help policy-makers and managers perform appropriate measures when dealing with this hazard. More studies should be conducted to understand these factors in other parts of the world.

Registration:PROSPERO registration numberCRD42018093325.
Investigating colistin drug resistance: The role of high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatics
Authors: Aruhomukama Dickson , Sserwadda Ivan , Mboowa Gerald
Published: February 2019

Bacterial infections involving antibiotic resistant gram-negative bacteria continue to increase and represent a major global public health concern. Resistance to antibiotics in these bacteria is mediated by chromosomal and/or acquired resistance mechanisms, these give rise to multi-drug resistant (MDR) or extensive drug resistant (XDR) bacterial strains. Most recently, a novel acquired plasmid mediated resistance mechanism to colistin, an antibiotic that had been set apart as the last resort antibiotic in the treatment of infections involving MDR and XDR gram-negative bacteria, has been reported. Plasmid mediated colistin resistant gram-negative bacteria have been described to be pan-drug resistant, implying a state devoid of alternative antibiotic therapeutic options. This review describes the evolution of antibiotic resistance to plasmid mediated colistin resistance, and discusses the potential role of high-throughput sequencing technologies, genomics and bioinformatics towards improving antibiotic resistance surveillance, the search for novel drug targets and precision antibiotic therapy focused at combating colistin resistance, and antimicrobial resistance as a whole.
МЕТОДОЛОГИЯ ИДЕОЛОГО-ОБРАЗОВАТЕЛЬНОЙ ЛОГИСТИКИ В СТРУКТУРНОЙ ОЦЕНКЕ НАУЧНОГО ПОТЕНЦИАЛА ГОСУДАРСТВ
Authors: Zhitnov Evgeny Aleksandrovich
Published: February 2019

Статья рассматривает основные проблемы, существующие практически в каждом государстве в образовательном и научно-исследовательском секторах. Обосновывается необходимость применения авторской теоретической модели идеолого-образовательной логистики в структурной оценке научного потенциала государств в международном аспекте. Предлагается рассмотреть конструктивно-системный анализ политики государства в управлении научно-интеллектуальным потенциалом, повышающим или ухудшающим целевые установки экономического роста в исследуемых странах. Уточняются новые механизмы и термины, основанные на идеолого-образовательной логистике, позволяющей изучить паритетность между развитием НИОКР и экономикой. Описаны основные тенденции национальных систем образования как фундамента, обеспечивающего рост интеллектуального капитала. Отмечена политико-идеологическая функция государства по обеспечению реализации качественного и конкурентоспособного НИОКР в международном аспекте.Цель – апробировать новую авторскую квалиметрическую модель, основанную на идеолого-образовательной логистике в структурной оценке научного потенциала государств в международном аспекте.Методология проведения работы – строилась на концептуальных подходах образовательного инжиниринга, педагогической логистике, а также на экономических и политических теориях.Результатом работы является то, что нам удалось определить основной инструментарий, используемый в различных государствах для повышения эффективности развития НИОКР в международном аспекте, а также создать новую квалиметрическую модель, позволяющую оценить научный потенциал государств.Область применения результатов: результаты исследования могут быть использованы в педагогической, экономической, политической деятельностях, где требуется определить уровень развития научного потенциала государства в международном аспекте.
РОЛЬ СОВРЕМЕННЫХ ИННОВАЦИОННЫХ ТЕХНОЛОГИЙ В ОБРАЗОВАТЕЛЬНОМ ПРОЦЕССЕ
Authors: Pavlova Irina Aleksandrovna , Tarasova Elena Vladimirovna
Published: February 2019

В последние годы в связи с реформами образования в нашей стране происходит поиск современных эффективных методик получения образования и воспитания. Новые потребности развивающегося российского общества невозможно обеспечить без существенной перестройки методик и технологий подготовки кадров высшей квалификации, реализуемых в соответствии с требованиями государственных стандартов. При этом в целях обеспечения соответствующего уровня подготовки обучающихся, и формирования специалиста с высшим образованием, обладающим всеми необходимыми компетенциями, требуется введение новых технологий обучения в процесс образования.Учитывая рост конкуренции на рынке образовательных услуг, подготовка специалистов не может ограничивать себя лишь традиционными лекциями, семинарами, практическими и лабораторными работами. Безусловно, традиционная методика обучения остается незаменимой в случае передачи теоретических знаний и концепций. Но формирование глубоких профессиональных навыков и умений требует иных подходов.Повышению качества подготовки специалистов поможет внедрение инновационных методов обучения. Современные методики обучения акцентируютсвое внимание на раскрытии творческого потенциала студентов, повышению их самостоятельности в изучении материала.В настоящее время процесс осуществления образования во многом связан с применением онлайн-обучения. Значительный информационный поток в сети Интернет и возможности технологий дистанционного обучения должны благоприятно сказываться на формировании итоговых навыков и умений. Только грамотно организованный процесс электронного обучения приведет к формированию квалифицированного специалиста. В данной статье рассматриваются вопросы актуальности, возможности и необходимости применения современных форм обучения в образовательном процессе.Цель – изучение вопросов, связанных с возможностью внедрения новых технологий и их активное использование в образовательном процессе.Метод или методология проведения работы: теоретические методы (анализ и синтез, сравнение, классификация, обобщение); методы эмпирического уровня (изучение литературы, документов и результатов деятельности, оценивание методики).Результаты: выявление ряда проблем, возникающих при внедрении активных форм обучения в образовательный процесс.Область применения результатов: результаты проведенного исследования могут быть учтены при организации образовательного процесса, с использованием активных форм обучения, как в учреждениях высшего образования, так и средне-специального.
РЕАЛИЗАЦИЯ ФИЛЬТРА КАЛМАНА ПРИ ОБРАБОТКЕ ДАННЫХ ОТ ДАТЧИКА УРОВНЯ ТОПЛИВА С ИСПОЛЬЗОВАНИЕМ ДОПОЛНИТЕЛЬНОЙ ИНФОРМАЦИИ ОТ НАВИГАЦИОННО-СВЯЗНОГО ТЕРМИНАЛА
Authors: Alekseev Nikolai Yurevich , Kudryavtsev Alexander Aleksandrovich , Asmolov Gennadiy Ivanovich , Lobov Oleg Pavlovich
Published: February 2019

Все измерительные приборы обладают некоторой погрешностью, составляющими которой могут быть внешние и внутренние воздействия. Это приводит к тому, что информация, считываемая с измерительных устройств, оказывается искаженной. Чем сильнее зашумлены данные, тем сложнее их обрабатывать. Одной из задач мониторинга параметров работы транспортных средств является измерение уровня топлива в баке, определение заправок и сливов, а также расчет расхода топлива. В данной статье рассматриваются данные от датчика уровня топлива с последующей обработкой этих данных.Цель – получение достоверных значений уровня топлива в баке транспортных средств с использованием фильтра Калмана.Метод или методология проведения исследования: в статье предложен метод фильтрации данных уровня топлива, подразумевающий использование данных от датчика топлива и дополнительной информации от навигационно-связного терминала.Результаты: получены отфильтрованные значения уровня топлива в баке транспортных средств.Область применения результатов: полученные результаты целесообразно применять в автотранспортных предприятиях для контроля расхода топлива транспортных средств.