bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epigenetic Reprogramming of Immune Cells in Women With PCOS Impact Genes Controlling Reproductive Function
Authors: Hiam Danielle , Simar David , Laker Rhianna , Altıntaş Ali , Gibson-Helm Melanie , Fletcher Elly , Moreno-Asso Alba , Trewin Adam J , Barres Romain , Stepto Nigel K
Published: August 2019

Context

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a chronic disease affecting reproductive function and whole-body metabolism. Although the etiology is unclear, emerging evidence indicates that the epigenetics may be a contributing factor.

Objective

To determine the role of global and genome-wide epigenetic modifications in specific immune cells in PCOS compared with controls and whether these could be related to clinical features of PCOS.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Participants

Women with (n = 17) or without PCOS (n = 17).

Setting

Recruited from the general community.

Main Outcome Measures

Isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells were analyzed using multicolor flow cytometry methods to determine global DNA methylation levels in a cell-specific fashion. Transcriptomic and genome-wide DNA methylation analyses were performed on T helper cells using RNA sequencing and reduced representation bisulfite sequencing.

Results

Women with PCOS had lower global DNA methylation in monocytes (P = 0.006) and in T helper (P = 0.004), T cytotoxic (P = 0.004), and B cells (P = 0.03). Specific genome-wide DNA methylation analysis of T helper cells from women with PCOS identified 5581 differentially methylated CpG sites. Functional gene ontology enrichment analysis showed that genes located at the proximity of differentially methylated CpG sites belong to pathways related to reproductive function and immune cell function. However, these genes were not altered at the transcriptomic level.

Conclusions

It was shown that PCOS is associated with global and gene-specific DNA methylation remodeling in a cell type–specific manner. Further investigation is warranted to determine whether epigenetic reprogramming of immune cells is important in determining the different phenotypes of PCOS.
Plasma Agouti-Related Protein Levels in Acromegaly and Effects of Surgical or Pegvisomant Therapy
Authors: Freda Pamela U , Reyes-Vidal Carlos , Jin Zhezhen , Pugh Mya , Panigrahi Sunil K , Bruce Jeffrey N , Wardlaw Sharon L
Published: August 2019

Context

GH activates agouti-related protein (AgRP) neurons, leading to orexigenic responses in mice. The relationship between serum GH and plasma AgRP, which has been shown to reflect hypothalamic AgRP, has not been evaluated in humans.

Objective

To test the hypothesis that central stimulatory actions of GH on hypothalamic AgRP could be reflected in plasma AgRP in acromegaly.

Methods

We studied 23 patients with active acromegaly before and for ≤2 years after surgical (n = 13) or GH receptor antagonist therapy with pegvisomant (n = 10), and 100 healthy subjects with morning fasting blood samples for AgRP, leptin, GH, and IGF-1 and anthropometric measurements.

Results

The plasma AgRP levels were higher in those with active acromegaly than in the matched healthy subjects [median, 100 pg/mL; interquartile range (IQR), 78 to 139 pg/mL vs median, 63 pg/mL; IQR, 58 to 67 pg/mL; P < 0.0001]. Plasma AgRP decreased from before to after surgery (median, 102 pg/mL; IQR, 82 to 124 pg/mL vs median, 63 pg/mL; IQR, 55.6 to 83 pg/mL; P = 0.0024) and from before to during pegvisomant therapy (median, 97 pg/mL; IQR, 77 to 175 pg/mL vs median, 63; IQR, 61 to 109 pg/mL; P = 0.006). The plasma AgRP level correlated with GH (r = 0.319; P = 0.011) and IGF-1 (r = 0.292; P = 0.002). In repeated measure analysis, AgRP was significantly associated with IGF-1.

Conclusions

Our data have provided evidence of a stimulatory effect of GH on plasma AgRP in humans. The levels were greater in active acromegaly and decreased in parallel with GH and IGF-1 decreases with acromegaly treatment. Data from mice suggest that AgRP may mediate some of the known effects of GH on energy metabolism. This warrants further study in patients with acromegaly and other populations.
Hypernatremic Hydrophobic Transient Adipsia Without Organic or Severe Psychiatric Disorder
Authors: Rodriguez Aleida , Fogelfeld Leon , Robertson Gary
Published: August 2019

Context

Psychogenic adipsic hypernatremia is an exceedingly rare and life-threatening condition, occurring in those with severe psychiatric disorders. Its diagnosis requires exclusion of congenital or acquired hypothalamic pathologic entities. We present the case of a patient who experienced transient severe hypernatremia without evidence of brain pathologic features or known psychiatric disease. In our patient, the transient adipsic hypernatremia had resulted from an episode of mild depression that resolved spontaneously.

Case Description

A 46-year-old healthy woman who had had three recurrent admissions within 1 month had presented for evaluation of intractable nausea and vomiting with a history of a recent episode of a depressive mood change. Each admission had shown substantial hypernatremia (maximum plasma sodium, 166 mEq/L) accompanied by a strong aversion to consuming water. The findings from the diagnostic evaluation showed elevated serum osmolality and lower than expected urine osmolality (urine osmolality range, 474–501 mOsm/kg). This finding, along with an MRI scan showing the presence of a normal posterior pituitary bright spot, suggested that the osmoregulation of her thirst and arginine vasopressin (AVP) secretion were both defective during the attack. The patient was evaluated by psychiatry. Mild depression was diagnosed, and the patient started treatment with mirtazapine, which she only took for a few days. The patient’s hypernatremia had completely recovered with resolution of her depression within 2 months.

Conclusion

A mild mood disorder can cause transient dysregulation of the thirst mechanism and AVP secretion through not yet identified mechanisms.
Hyperinsulinemia: An Early Indicator of Metabolic Dysfunction
Authors: Thomas Dylan D , Corkey Barbara E , Istfan Nawfal W , Apovian Caroline M
Published: August 2019

Hyperinsulinemia is strongly associated with type 2 diabetes. Racial and ethnic minority populations are disproportionately affected by diabetes and obesity-related complications. This mini-review provides an overview of the genetic and environmental factors associated with hyperinsulinemia with a focus on racial and ethnic differences and its metabolic consequences. The data used in this narrative review were collected through research in PubMed and reference review of relevant retrieved articles. Insulin secretion and clearance are regulated processes that influence the development and progression of hyperinsulinemia. Environmental, genetic, and dietary factors are associated with hyperinsulinemia. Certain pharmacotherapies for obesity and bariatric surgery are effective at mitigating hyperinsulinemia and are associated with improved metabolic health. Hyperinsulinemia is associated with many environmental and genetic factors that interact with a wide network of hormones. Recent studies have advanced our understanding of the factors affecting insulin secretion and clearance. Further basic and translational work on hyperinsulinemia may allow for earlier and more personalized treatments for obesity and metabolic diseases.
Residual Tumor Confers a 10-Fold Increased Risk of Regrowth in Clinically Nonfunctioning Pituitary Tumors
Authors: Maletkovic Jelena , Dabbagh Asmaa , Zhang Dongyun , Zahid Abdul , Bergsneider Marvin , Wang Marilene B , Linetsky Michael , Salamon Noriko , Yong William H , Vinters Harry V , Heaney Anthony P
Published: August 2019

Objective

We evaluated tumor recurrence and regrowth rates following endoscopic transnasal transsphenoidal (TNTS) surgical removal in a consecutive series of clinically nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas (CNFTs).

Design

Retrospective chart review of clinical, biochemical, and sellar MRI findings in all TNTS surgeries in patients with CNFT, performed by a single surgeon, between 2008 and 2015 (n = 280).

Patients

Ninety-three patients met eligibility criteria, with complete clinical, biochemical, and imaging follow-up for a 3-year minimum.

Results

Of 85 patients who were not irradiated, 3-month postsurgical MRI demonstrated no residual tumor in 58 of 85 (68.2%), equivocal findings in 12 of 85 (14.1%), and definite residual tumor in 15 of 85 (17.6%) patients. Six of 85 (7.1%) demonstrated tumor regrowth by 3 years, and 2 further patients demonstrated true tumor recurrence at 3 and 6 years after surgery, respectively, for a total recurrence rate of 9.4% (8 of 85). Eight of the 93 patients were irradiated between 3 months and 4 years after pituitary surgery. In 3 patients with tumor regrowth, 2 exhibited residual tumor and 1 had no residual findings at the 3-month postoperative imaging. Overall, Ki-67 labeling index or Knosp grading did not predict recurrence.

Conclusion

Tumor recurrence at 3 years was low (1 of 58; 1.7%) if the 3-month postoperative MRI showed no residual tumor. The findings support a less frequent imaging schedule for this group. Patients with definite residual tumor visible at 3 months harbor the greatest risk for tumor growth, but regrowth does not occur in all patients (6 of 15; 40%).
MGMT Promoter Methylation and Parathyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Storvall Sara , Ryhänen Eeva , Heiskanen Ilkka , Vesterinen Tiina , Bensch Frank V , Schildt Jukka , Kytölä Soili , Karhu Auli , Arola Johanna , Schalin-Jäntti Camilla
Published: August 2019

Context

Parathyroid carcinoma (PC) is extremely rare. Prognosis is poor, with no known evidence-based systemic therapies. We previously reported complete remission in a patient with metastasized parathyroid carcinoma and high tumor MGMT promoter methylation status who was treated with temozolomide.

Objective

To study MGMT promoter methylation status in an additional set of aggressive parathyroid tumors.

Design/Setting

The study included 12 patients: 7 with sporadic and 5 with familial primary hyperparathyroidism (two of the latter carried a CDC73 gross deletion). Patient 9 is the previously described patient with PC and high MGMT methylation status. Her daughter (patient 12) had surgery for severe primary hyperparathyroidism due to atypical parathyroid adenoma during pregnancy. Eleven patients thus had PC and one had atypical parathyroid adenoma. MGMT promoter methylation status was determined from DNA extracted from primary (n = 10) or metastatic (n = 2) tumors. A mean methylation level >20% was considered high. Patient 11 had metastatic PC and received temozolomide cycles.

Results

Only the previously published patient (patient 9) had high tumor MGMT promoter methylation status. This was not a characteristic of the atypical parathyroid adenoma of the daughter (patient 12). Patient 11 (CDC73 intragenic deletion) has disseminated PC, low MGMT promoter methylation, and stable disease on follow-up after temozolomide treatment.

Conclusion

High MGMT promoter methylation status seems rare in PC. However, as demonstrated in other neuroendocrine tumors, some patients with disseminated PC might benefit from temozolomide. Demonstration of high methylation status could be a predictor of positive response to temozolomide treatment.
Whole-Exome Sequencing of Syndromic Adrenocortical Carcinoma Reveals Distinct Mutational Profile From Sporadic ACC
Authors: Nicolson Norman G , Healy James M , Korah Reju , Carling Tobias
Published: August 2019

Next-generation sequencing has provided genetic profiles of a large number of sporadic adrenocortical carcinomas (ACCs), but the applicability of these results to ACC cases associated with tumor predisposition syndromes is unclear. Although the germline features of these syndromes have been well described, the somatic mutational landscape of the tumors they give rise to is less clear. Our group obtained germline and tumor tissue from a pediatric patient who developed ACC during her first year of life, which was treated successfully. She was subsequently diagnosed with additional tumors later in childhood. Whole exome sequencing analysis was performed followed by in silico protein function prediction, revealing a probably deleterious germline TP53 L265P mutation. The somatic mutational burden was comparable between the index case and a previously published cohort of 40 sporadic cases, but the mutational spectrum was distinct in terms of raw base-change frequency as well as in a trinucleotide context-specific analysis. No canonical somatic genetic drivers of ACC were identified in the reported case, suggesting that syndromic adrenocortical tumors may represent a genetically distinct entity from sporadic tumors.
Neoadjuvant Treatment With Müllerian-Inhibiting Substance Synchronizes Follicles and Enhances Superovulation Yield
Authors: Kano Motohiro , Hsu Jennifer Y , Saatcioglu Hatice D , Nagykery Nicholas , Zhang LiHua , Morris Sabatini Mary E , Donahoe Patricia K , Pépin David
Published: August 2019

Müllerian-inhibiting substance (MIS), also known as anti-Müllerian hormone, is thought to be a negative regulator of primordial follicle activation. We have previously reported that treatment with exogenous MIS can induce complete ovarian suppression within 5 weeks of treatment in mice. To investigate the kinetics of the return of folliculogenesis following the reversal of suppression, we treated animals with recombinant human MIS (rhMIS) protein for 40 days in adult female Nu/Nu mice and monitored the recovery of each follicle type over time. Following cessation of MIS therapy, secondary, and antral follicles returned within 30 days, along with the normalization of reproductive hormones, including LH, FSH, MIS, and Inhibin B. Furthermore, 30 days following MIS pretreatment, the number of antral follicles were significantly higher than controls, and superovulation with timed pregnant mare serum gonadotropin and human chorionic gonadotropin stimulation at this time point resulted in an approximately threefold increased yield of eggs. Use of the combined rhMIS-gonadotropin superovulation regimen in a diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) mouse model, created by 4-vinylcyclohexene dioxide treatment, also resulted in a twofold improvement in the yield of eggs. In conclusion, treatment with rhMIS can induce a reversible ovarian suppression, following which a rapid and synchronized large initial wave of growing follicles can be harnessed to enhance the response to superovulation. Therapies modulating MIS signaling may therefore augment the response to current ovarian stimulation protocols and could be particularly useful to women with DOR or poor responders to controlled ovarian hyperstimulation during in vitro fertilization.
Urinary Bisphenols and Obesity Prevalence Among U.S. Children and Adolescents
Authors: Jacobson Melanie H , Woodward Miriam , Bao Wei , Liu Buyun , Trasande Leonardo
Published: August 2019

Bisphenol A (BPA) has been recognized as an endocrine disrupting chemical and identified as an obesogen. Although once ubiquitous, human exposure to BPA has been declining owing to its substitution with other bisphenols. Two structurally similar substitutes, bisphenol S (BPS) and bisphenol F (BPF), have raised similar concerns, although fewer studies have been conducted on these newer derivatives. We used data from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys from 2013 to 2016 to evaluate associations between BPA, BPS, and BPF and body mass outcomes among children and adolescents aged 6 to 19 years. Concentrations of BPA, BPS, and BPF were measured in spot urine samples using HPLC with tandem mass spectrometry. General obesity was defined as ≥95th percentile of the age- and sex-standardized body mass index (BMI) z-scores according to the 2000 US norms. Abdominal obesity was defined as a waist circumference/height ratio of ≥0.5. BPA, BPS, and BPF were detected in 97.5%, 87.8%, and 55.2% of urine samples, respectively. Log-transformed urinary BPS concentrations were associated with an increased prevalence of general obesity (OR, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.02 to 1.32) and abdominal obesity (OR, 1.13; 95% CI, 1.02 to 1.27). BPF detection (vs not detected) was associated with an increased prevalence of abdominal obesity (OR, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.01 to 1.64) and continuous BMI z-score (β = 0.10; 95% CI, 0.01 to 0.20). BPA and total bisphenols were not statistically significantly associated with general obesity, abdominal obesity, or any body mass outcome. These results suggest that BPA substitute chemicals are correlated with obesity in contemporary children.
Root gravity response module guides differential growth determining both root bending and apical hook formation
Authors: Zhu Qiang , Gallemí Marçal , Pospíšil Jiří , Žádníková Petra , Strnad Miroslav , Benková Eva
Published: August 2019

The apical hook is a transiently formed structure that plays a protective role when the germinating seedling penetrates towards the soil surface. Critical for proper bending is the local auxin maxima, which defines the concave (inner) side of the hook curvature. As no sign of asymmetric auxin distribution has been reported in embryonic hypocotyls prior to hook formation, the question about how auxin asymmetry is established in the early phases of seedling germination, is largely unanswered. Here, we analyzed the auxin distribution and expression of PIN auxin efflux carriers from early phases of germination, and show that bending of the root in response to gravity is the crucial initial cue that governs the hypocotyl bending required for the apical hook formation. Importantly, polar auxin transport machinery is established gradually after germination starts as a result of tight root-hypocotyl interaction and a proper balance between abscisic acid and gibberellins.
Diagnostic value of endoscopic ultrasound elastography for benign and malignant digestive system tumors
Authors: Lv Hongna , Zhu Guangchao , Zhou Long’an
Published: August 2019

Objective: To investigate the effect of endoscopic ultrasound real-time tissue elastography in differential diagnosis of benign and malignant digestive system tumors.

Methods: Forty-two patients with solid tumors of digestive system who were admitted to our hospital between October 2017 and October 2018 were selected. All patients were diagnosed by endoscopic ultrasound real-time tissue elastography. Elastography score was used. The strain ratios (SR) of the lesion and the surrounding control tissues were measured and compared.

Results: Lesions with elastography score no more than two points were evaluated as benign, while lesions with elastography score no less than three points were evaluated as malignant. The difference of the elastography score between the benign lesion group and malignant lesion group was statistically significant (P<0.05). The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of endoscopic ultrasound elastography in the diagnosis of malignant tumors of digestive system were 91.4%, 88.9% and 87.5%, respectively. The SR of the benign lesions ranged from 0.01 to 7.34, with a median SR of 7.33; the SR of the malignant lesions ranged from 1.01 to 47.66, with a median SR of 20.07. The SR of the benign lesions was significantly lower than that of the malignant lesions (P<0.05).

Conclusion: Elastography of benign and malignant tissues of digestive tract tumors has different image characteristics. Endoscopic ultrasound real-time tissue elastography is effective in differential diagnosis of digestive tract tumors as it can effectively determine whether a tumor is benign or malignant and improve diagnostic accuracy.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.35.5.1075

How to cite this:Lv H, Zhu G, Zhou L. Diagnostic value of endoscopic ultrasound elastography for benign and malignant digestive system tumors. Pak J Med Sci. 2019;35(5):1461-1465. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.35.5.1075

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Organizing and running bioinformatics hackathons within Africa: The H3ABioNet cloud computing experience
Authors: Ahmed Azza E. , Mpangase Phelelani T. , Panji Sumir , Baichoo Shakuntala , Souilmi Yassine , Fadlelmola Faisal M. , Alghali Mustafa , Aron Shaun , Bendou Hocine , De Beste Eugene , Mbiyavanga Mamana , Souiai Oussema , Yi Long , Zermeno Jennie , Armstrong Don , O'Connor Brian D. , Mainzer Liudmila Sergeevna , Crusoe Michael R. , Meintjes Ayton , Van Heusden Peter , Botha Gerrit , Joubert Fourie , Jongeneel C. Victor , Hazelhurst Scott , Mulder Nicola
Published: August 2019

The need for portable and reproducible genomics analysis pipelines is growing globally as well as in Africa, especially with the growth of collaborative projects like the Human Health and Heredity in Africa Consortium (H3Africa). The Pan-African H3Africa Bioinformatics Network (H3ABioNet) recognized the need for portable, reproducible pipelines adapted to heterogeneous computing environments, and for the nurturing of technical expertise in workflow languages and containerization technologies. Building on the network’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for common genomic analyses, H3ABioNet arranged its first Cloud Computing and Reproducible Workflows Hackathon in 2016, with the purpose of translating those SOPs into analysis pipelines able to run on heterogeneous computing environments and meeting the needs of H3Africa research projects. This paper describes the preparations for this hackathon and reflects upon the lessons learned about its impact on building the technical and scientific expertise of African researchers. The workflows developed were made publicly available in GitHub repositories and deposited as container images on Quay.io.
Pilgrimage Tourism: A Study on Palani Temple, Tamil Nadu
Authors: Aruljothi C , Ramaswamy S
Published: August 2019

India is a large country with great traditions, culture, and civilization. India has 4000 years of fertile civilized life with planned cities, monumental temples, mosques and churches,  palaces,  sculptures,  paintings  and  various artistic creations. These scenic beauties have made India one of the most famous tourist destinations in the world. The Tourism potential of any country mainly depends on its climate, scenery, historical monuments, arts, tradition, festivals  and  the  society.  If  any  place  or  area  or  spot possesses all these characters and potentials, we may call it  as  a  tourist  centre  or  pilgrim  centre.  Tamil  Nadu,  a southern State of India, is a land of charm with ancient traditions;  the  picturesque  land  of  Tamil  Nadu  has towering temples  with  magnificent  architecture  and sculptures,  art  galleries  and  heterogeneous  natural beauty, existing on the hills and mountains. Tamil Nadu is flooded with different cultural, spiritual and religious centres  like  Madurai,  Rameswaram,  Kanyakumari, Tanjavur,  Kumbakonam,  Trichy,  Kancheepuram, Chidambaram,  Tiruvannamalai  and  Palani.  Religious institutions like temples in Tamil Nadu have been playing a  multifaceted  role in  religious,  social,  economic  and cultural life of the Tamil community. Moreover, temples are  considered  as producers,  land  owners,  trustees,employers,  pilgrim  centres  and  institutions.    There  are studies  conducted  in  cultural  and  spiritual tourism centres, which focus on heritage, culture and the historical aspects.  But  studies  that  focus  on  economic  aspects  of such  centres  are  scanty.  With  this  background,  the authors have made an attempt to study the memories and reminiscence  of  150  Pilgrimage  tourists,  who  visited Palani Temple; one of the Six abodes  of Lord Muruga located in the Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu, with an objective  of  examining  the  social and  economic characteristics  of the pilgrimage  tourists;  and  identify their major problems and suggest ways and means for promoting  pilgrimage  tourism  in  Palani.  The  Primary data has been collected through interview schedules. The interview  schedule  was  pre-tested,  modified and  well- structured, and was used for obtaining information and data from the cultural-spiritual tourists, who are visiting the Palani temple. Secondary data in connection with the Palani temple were also gathered from the office of the Commissioner, Palani temple. Further, the authors have collected  data  and  information  from  150  tourists  who visited  the  Palani  temple  during  June-July  2011.  The tourists  were purposively selected in different spots in and  around the Palani  temple.  For  the  purpose  of analyzing the data, simple tools like ratio, percentage and average were used
O Sistema de Informação Geográfica em pesquisas sobre ambiente, atividade física e saúde
Authors: Lopes Adalberto Aparecido dos Santos , Hino Adriano Akira Ferreira , Moura Edilberto Nunes de , Reis Rodrigo Siqueira
Published: August 2019

O Sistema de Informação Geográfica (SIG) é uma ferramenta importante para o gerenciamento e análises de dados geográficos relacionados com políticas, programas e desfechos no contexto da atividade física e saúde. O objetivo desse estudo é descrever os métodos e a aplicação do SIG para avaliar o ambiente relacionado à atividade física e a saúde. Algumas etapas são essenciais para o emprego do SIG, incluindo desenvolvimento de conhecimentos fundamentais à operação da ferramenta, identificação e domínio dos programas computacionais adequados às características do projeto de pesquisa, aquisição dos dados espaciais, criação e análise de indicadores e por fim a representação das informações espaciais. As informações derivadas do SIG permitem uma exatidão nas análises relacionadas a comunidades amplas, como bairros e cidades. O emprego de receptor GPS (Global Positioning System) e acelerômetro, por exemplo, pode ampliar o detalhamento de informações sobre aonde, quem, quando e quais atividades físicas são realizadas. Além disto, informações obtidas por meio de observação sistemática e auto relatos podem adicionar aspectos sobre a qualidade dos locais em que as atividades físicas são realizadas. Conclui-se que o emprego de SIG, em conjunto com outros métodos, pode auxiliar a compreensão sobre o papel das mudanças ambientais e políticas públicas voltadas ao ambiente, sobre os níveis populacionais de atividade física, assim como propiciar evidências que auxiliem o planejamento de cidades mais saudáveis.
Quality Information Disclosure and Patient Reallocation in the Healthcare Industry: Evidence from Cardiac Surgery Report Cards
Authors: Yoon Tae Jung
Published: August 2019

This paper shows that quality information disclosure in the healthcare industry can have a negative impact on positive assortative matching between patients and healthcare providers.
The Computational Complexity of Integer Programming with Alternations
Authors: Nguyen Danny , Pak Igor
Published: August 2019

We prove that integer programming with three alternating quantifiers is NP-complete, even for a fixed number of variables. This complements earlier results by Lenstra [ 16 ] [Lenstra H ( 1983 ) Integer programming with a fixed number of variables. Math. Oper. Res. 8(4):538–548.] and Kannan [ 13, 14 ] [Kannan R ( 1990 ) Test sets for integer programs, ∀ ∃ sentences. Polyhedral Combinatorics (American Mathematical Society, Providence, RI), 39–47. Kannan R ( 1992 ) Lattice translates of a polytope and the Frobenius problem. Combinatorica 12(2):161–177.], which together say that integer programming with at most two alternating quantifiers can be done in polynomial time for a fixed number of variables. As a byproduct of the proof, we show that for two polytopes [Formula: see text], counting the projections of integer points in Q\P is #P-complete. This contrasts the 2003 result by Barvinok and Woods [ 5 ] [Barvinok A, Woods K ( 2003 ) Short rational generating functions for lattice point problems. J. Amer. Math. Soc. 16(4):957–979.], which allows counting in polynomial time the projections of integer points in P and Q separately.
Pricing and Matching with Forward-Looking Buyers and Sellers
Authors: Chen Yiwei , Hu Ming
Published: August 2019

Problem definition: We study a dynamic market over a finite horizon for a single product or service in which buyers with private valuations and sellers with private supply costs arrive following Poisson processes. A single market-making intermediary decides dynamically on the ask and bid prices that will be posted to buyers and sellers, respectively, and on the matching decisions after buyers and sellers agree to buy and sell. Buyers and sellers can wait strategically for better prices after they arrive. Academic/practical relevance: This problem is motivated by the emerging sharing economy and directly speaks to the core of operations management that is about matching supply with demand. Methodology: The dynamic, stochastic, and game-theoretic nature makes the problem intractable. We employ the mechanism-design methodology to establish a tractable upper bound on the optimal profit, which motivates a simple heuristic policy. Results: Our heuristic policy is: fixed ask and bid prices plus price adjustments as compensation for waiting costs, in conjunction with the greedy matching policy on a first-come-first-served basis. These fixed base prices balance demand and supply in expectation and can be computed efficiently. The waiting-compensated price processes are time-dependent and tend to have opposite trends at the beginning and end of the horizon. Under this heuristic policy, forward-looking buyers and sellers behave myopically. This policy is shown to be asymptotically optimal. Managerial implications: Our results suggest that the intermediary might not lose much optimality by maintaining stable prices unless the underlying market conditions have significantly changed, not to mention that frequent surge pricing may antagonize riders and induce riders and drivers to behave strategically in ways that are hard to account for with traditional pricing models.
Rare health conditions 26: fatal familial insomnia, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease and Gerstmann-Sträussler-Scheinker syndrome
Authors: Barber Chris
Published: August 2019

The purpose of this series is to briefly highlight a range of rare health conditions. Rare health conditions are those that affect no more and usually less than 1 person in every 2000 and many HCAs and nurses will encounter some of these conditions given the high number of these conditions.

This 26th article will explore three of these rare conditions.
Effect of College Students’ Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy on Entrepreneurial Intention: Career Adaptability as a Mediating Variable
Authors: Qiao Xiaoping , Hua Jian-Hao
Published: August 2019

The aim of this study is to explore the relationship among college students’ entrepreneurial self-efficacy, career adaptability, and entrepreneurial intention. Based on the Theory of Planned Behavior（TPB）, this study adopted the entrepreneurial self-efficacy scale, career adaptability scale and entrepreneurial intention scale to investigate 1039 college students from a university in ShanDong province, China. The results indicated the following: (a) entrepreneurial self-efficacy of college student significantly and positively affected entrepreneurial intention; (b) entrepreneurial self-efficacy of college student significantly and positively affected career adaptability; (c) career adaptability significantly and positively affected entrepreneurial intention; and (d) career adaptability partially mediated the effect of entrepreneurial self-efficacy on entrepreneurial intention. The results of this study can serve as a reference for universities wishing to implement career education and provide entrepreneurship guidance.
Elimination of gatifloxacin from water: Treatment by electro-Fenton process and highlighting of a biological post-treatment
Authors: Arhoutane Mohamed Reda , Kaichouh Ghizlan , Yahya Muna Shueai , El Karbane Miloud , Chakchak Hind , El Kacemi Kacem
Published: August 2019

This study concerns the oxidative degradation and mineralization of gatifloxacin in aqueous solution at pH = 3 and in the presence of Fe2+ as catalyst Â using electro-Fenton (EF) process, with carbon felt as a cathode and platinum as an anode. The mineralization is evaluated by the chemical oxygen demand by assessing the applied current value and concentration of catalyst Fe2+. Some stable by-products of gatifloxacin have been identified using high-performance liquid chromatography and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. The second part of this paper concerns the study of the biodegradability in determining of BOD5/COD during the mineralization of gatifloxacin by EF in order to evaluate the possibility of coupling electro-Fenton process with the biological one. This leads to an efficient treatment of water contaminated by this antibiotic with lower cost.
K-10 montmorillonite: An efficient and reusable catalyst for selective oxidation of aldehydes in the presence of dioxygen
Authors: EL Amrani Ikram , Atlamsani Ahmed
Published: August 2019

A commercial montmorillonite clay catalyst, K-10 montmorillonite, was tested for catalytic oxidation of aldehydes in the presence of molecular oxygen under mild conditions. K-10 montmorillonite catalysed the oxidation of aldehydes with good activity and excellent selectivity toward the formation of the corresponding acids. The effects of the amount of catalyst, temperature and solvent on the catalytic activity were investigated. Remarkably, this catalyst was reusable without any appreciable loss in activity and selectivity.
Chemical characterization and antibacterial activity of the essential oils of Tetraclinis articulata (Vahl) from Morocco
Authors: Zerkani Hannou , Tagnaout Imane , Dirioiche Aziz , Adadi Imad , El Karkouri Jamila , Padzys Guy Stéphane , Zair Touriya
Published: August 2019

The objective of this study was to identify new bioactive substances through the phytochemical study and evaluation of the antibacterial activity of the essential oils of Tetraclinis articulata (Vahl). Harvested in April 2016, in the region of Khenifra (Middle Atlas-Morocco). Separate of hydrodistillation extracts of the three organs (branches, leaves and fruits) of Tetraclinis articulate were performed. The yields of essential oils are 0.92% for fruits; 0.41% for branches and 0.61% for leaves. The GC/MS analysis allowed the identification of 33 compounds in essential oil leaves, 20 compounds in excess fruits and 58 compounds in branches. The main compounds are bornyl acetate (38.54%) and α-pinene (6.71%) for leaves. α-pinene (22.12%); 13-epi-mannol (3.58%) and retinol (3.44%) for branches. Bornyl acetate (19.96%); α-pinene (12.47%) and retinol (11.98%) for fruits. The antibacterial properties of the essential oil of leaves of Tetraclinis articulata (Vahl) were tested in clinical bacterial strain. The essential oils inhibit the growth of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae at 1.2 µl/ml; 2.4 µl/ml and 9.7 µl/ml respectively. Indeed, the resistance of bacteria to antibiotics is known for its adverse effects on human health, to escape this problem, it is necessary to exploit the antibiotics from aromatic and medicinal plants.
A study of olive mill waste water removal by a biosorbent prepared by olive stones
Authors: Yassine Wafaa , Zyade Souad , Akazdam Said , Essadki Abdelhafid , Gourich Bouchaib , Benmessaoud Left Driss
Published: August 2019

In this work, olive mill wastewater (OMW) such as dyes is very toxic even present as traces in industrial wastewater effluents. It may constitute a potential pollution source of ground waters and hence it has to be eliminated. Various low cost adsorbents have been studied for their applicability in treatment of different types of effluents. In this study, the potential of activated carbon derived from Olive Stones was studied for the removal of OMW. The biosorption of OMW from aqueous solutions by Olive Stones (OLS) as a low-cost, natural and eco-friendly biosorbent was investigated and by KOH and H3PO4 treated Olive Stones (AOLS). Biosorption kinetic data were properly fitted with the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The experimental isotherm data were analyzed using Langmuir, Freundlich isotherm equations. The best fit was obtained by the Langmuir model with a Langmuir maximum monolayer biosorption capacity of 189,83 mg/g for OMW. The biosorption was exothermic in nature (H° = -105,54 kJ/mol). The reaction was accompanied by a decrease in entropy. The Gibbs energy (G°) increased when the temperature was increased from 303 to 320 °K indicating a decrease in feasibility of biosorption at higher temperatures. The results have established good potentiality for the Olive Stones to be used as a sorbent for the removal of olive mill wastewater.
Pharmacognostic evaluation of Terminalia chebula standard extracts and finished products
Authors: Gunasekar Conjeevaram J. , Abu-Yousef Imad A. , Majdalawieh Amin F. , Narasimhan Srinivasan
Published: August 2019

The different commercial samples of Terminalia chebula (T. chebula) standard extracts and finished products were taken for elemental analysis studies and were evaluated by ICP-OES and compared with standard reference data. Trace elements are naturally occurring and its daily requirement as dietary supplement form is only a few milligrams and even micrograms. They are categorized as essential and non-essential, and that is based upon their biological action, diseases that occur due to their deficiency and toxicity due to overdose. Use of herbal medicines is now increasing worldwide because of their minimal side effects. In general, Haritaki (T. chebula) acts as a blood purifier and prevents haemorrhage. It is also used as an internal cleanser by removing harmful toxins and excess fats out of the body. It can strengthen the hair roots and enriches hair color. The elements were determined quantitatively using the modern technique of ICP-OES. The extracts undertaken for this study contains Ca as a primary elemental content, and its concentration is found to be as high as 144 mg/kg in comparison with other macro elements. Ca helps to overcome the problems of high blood pressure, heart attack, premenstrual syndrome, and colon cancer, besides its ability to keep the bones healthy and to reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Other essential elements such as Fe (2.0732 mg/kg), Zn (1.0235 mg/kg), and Mn (0.2500 mg/kg) were also present but not to an appreciable amount in the extracts of T. chebula. It was concluded that due to soil nature, climatic condition, time of harvest could be a detrimental factor while reviewing the elemental profile.
Antimicrobial resistance of Escherichia coli isolates from cattle in Eastern Algeria
Authors: Barour Djanette , Berghiche Amine , Boulebda Nadji
Published: August 2019

Background and Aim: Lack of information about the antibiotic resistance in commensal Escherichia coli from Algerian livestock prompted us to do this study to determine the different levels of antimicrobial susceptibility, antibiotic multidrug resistance (MDR) rates, and phenotypical patterns of E. coli strains isolated from healthy cattle to control the spread of animal-resistant strains to humans and the environment. Materials and Methods: A total of 198 cattle were sampled (swabbed in the rectum), reared in the farms of Souk Ahras, Tebessa, and Oum el Bouaghi governorates of Eastern Algeria. Isolation of E. coli strains was performed on MacConkey agar and then the different strains were identified to the species level using an API 20E identification kit. Antimicrobial susceptibility was determined using a panel of 13 antibiotic disks by disk diffusion method on Mueller-Hinton agar. The double-disk synergy test with cefotaxime and amoxicillin-clavulanate disks was used for the screening of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase phenotypes. For colistin susceptibility, the minimum inhibitory concentration was examined using broth microdilutions technique. Results: The results showed that among the 198 E. coli isolates, elevated resistance rates were observed for ampicillin (59.09%) and tetracycline (43.43%), and moderate resistance rates for cephalothin (16.16%), trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (15.15%), and amoxicillin/clavulanate (11.62%); however, low resistance rates were found for nalidixic acid (8.08%), ciprofloxacin (7.07%), kanamycin (6.56%), cefotaxime (4.54%), chloramphenicol (4.04%), nitrofurantoin (2.52%), cefoxitin (2.02%), gentamycin (1.01%), and no resistance to colistin. However, nine extended-spectrum β-lactamases producing E. coli strains were identified. Forty-four different patterns were determined, indicating a wide variety of resistance, ranging from one antimicrobial to a combination of 10. Analysis of coresistances revealed that 63 isolates (31.82%) were susceptible to all antibiotics used in the study, 42 isolates (21.21%) were resistant to one antibiotic, 43 isolates (21.72%) were resistant to two antibiotics, 24 isolates (12.12%) resistant to three antibiotics, 26 isolates (13.13%) were resistant for more than three agents, and 45 isolates (22.73%) were MDR (which means resistant to three or more families of antibiotics). Conclusion: This study demonstrates that commensal E. coli remains a potential source of antibiotic resistance in view of the high prevalence of antimicrobial resistance. The vast range of MDR phenotypes, especially extended-spectrum β-lactamases producing strains, emphasizes the urgent requirement to adopt measures to control the use of antimicrobials, in particular, by private veterinarians, as well as the strengthening of veterinary surveillance networks for antimicrobial resistance to control the spread of MDR bacteria from animals to humans and the environment.
ANÁLISE DA EFICIÊNCIA DO PROCESSO DE TRATAMENTO DE CORANTES PELO MÉTODO DE OXIDAÇÃO ANÓDICA
Authors: Mendes dos Reis Marco Aurélio , Henriques Amorim de Jesus Eleonora
Published: August 2019

O tratamento de água contaminada com compostos orgânicos é realizado por meio da coagulação química e tratamento biológico seguido de adsorção em carbono ativado, sendo métodos ineficientes para os microcontaminantes encontrados em águas de abastecimento e efluentes. A este respeito, nos últimos anos, têm sido importante intervir em diferentes níveis no tratamento, tais como rearranjo do processo, atualização de tecnologia e desenvolvimento de novas tecnologias para processos mais eficazes, tais como processos de oxidação eletroquímica. Neste trabalho, foi feito o estudo da degradação dos corantes sintéticos Ácido Vermelho 8, Ácido Azul 113 e Ácido Amarelo 17. O estudo foi realizado utilizando um volume de 200 ml de solução a 100 ppm de corante, utilizando o anodo DDB (Diamante Dopado de Boro) e cátodo aço inox, ambos com 10 cm2 de área. O tratamento eletroquímico proposto apresentou-se promissor na remoção dos corantes sintéticos utilizados.
AGRICULTURA METROPOLITANA E RESILIÊNCIA NA HINTERLÂNDIA RURAL DO RIO DE JANEIRO
Authors: Da Silva Machado Felipe
Published: August 2019

O estudo discute como diferentes graus de interação rural-urbana no Grande Rio de Janeiro resultam em diversidade multifuncional, resiliência da agricultura e inovação rural. A Região Metropolitana do Rio de Janeiro está localizada no Sudeste industrializado do Brasil e possui a segunda maior área metropolitana do país. Em algumas áreas rurais, a agricultura especializada fornece produtos agrícolas para a área metropolitana, aproveitando os benefícios de mercados próximos de uma forma clássica. Em outras áreas, as atividades agrícolas e não agrícolas são combinadas, desafiando a lógica linear da mudança rural. A complexidade da agricultura nessa região metropolitana brasileira contribui para compreensão do rural periférico, contrapondo a visão de espaço inerte e sujeito a interferências e ações externas. O estudo argumenta que o espaço rural também pode ser visto através da sua dinâmica e resiliência que contribuem em configurações espaciais complexas, onde as ações dos atores sociais criam formas de ordenamento espacial adaptadas ao novo cenário da mudança regional.
AVALIAÇÃO DAS CARACTERÍSTICAS AMBIENTAIS DE OCORRÊNCIAS DAS FEIÇÕES EROSIVAS LINEARES NOS LIMITES DEPRESSÃO-CUESTA - ANALÂNDIA (SP)
Authors: Stefanuto Estêvão Botura , Lupinacci Cenira Maria
Published: August 2019

As áreas de contato entre as depressões de borda de bacias sedimentares e os relevos cuestiformes, quando combinadas a intenso uso agrícola, podem sofrer processos erosivos lineares. Portanto, objetiva-se discutir a evolução de feições erosivas lineares, a partir de suas interações com a litologia, os solos, a declividade e o uso da terra em setor de transição depressão-cuesta localizado em Analândia (SP). Buscando atingir o objetivo, utilizou-se um conjunto de técnicas cartográficas a fim de mapear cada uma das variáveis consideradas. Através da metodologia utilizada, constatou-se uma expressiva associação das feições erosivas à litologias arenosas e a solos espessos e pouco espessos. Os sulcos e ravinas apresentaram incidência considerável na classe de declividade de 5 a 12%, a qual, teoricamente, é avaliada como adequada a diversos tipos de uso da terra. Ainda em relação ao uso da terra, as feições erosivas lineares correlacionaram-se às áreas de pasto limpo e vegetação arbórea, fato teoricamente inesperado. Dessa forma, é possível afirmar que as características geomorfológicas do contato cuesta-depressão, junto a um intenso uso da terra, podem estar dinamizando os processos erosivos lineares em diversificadas condições físicas, algumas destas consideradas de baixa potencialidade para o desenvolvimento desses processos.
60 ANOS DA PRIMEIRA GRANDE OBRA “CONTRA AS SECAS” NO ESTADO DA BAHIA: AÇUDE PÚBLICO JACURICI
Authors: Lima João Fernando Souza , Pertile Noeli
Published: August 2019

O presente trabalho tem por objetivo analisar o processo de implantação do Açude Público Jacurici no município de Itiúba, que representou a primeira grande intervenção do governo federal no estado da Bahia, sob o contexto das “obras contra as secas”. Executada pelo Departamento Nacional de Obras Contra as Secas (DNOCS) no período 1948-1958, a implantação do referido açude resultou em grandes repercussões socioespaciais e importantes alterações na paisagem do município, entre as quais, a formação do povoado Rômulo Campos, originado em função das obras de construção da barragem. Para esta analise, será feita uma contextualização histórica da problemática da seca, em seus diferentes aspectos, bem como das políticas voltadas para a região do semiárido do Nordeste, durante o século XX. Para obtenção das informações que serão apresentadas, além de uma extensa pesquisa bibliográfica, foi realizado Trabalho de Campo com o objetivo de entrevistar antigos moradores do local e outros agentes envolvidos. Os resultados desta pesquisa revelaram os impactos derivados desta grande intervenção, bem como a importância do açude para a população beneficiada; além do abandono do projeto de irrigação criado na década de 1970 para o fortalecimento da economia do município.