bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
G9a/GLP Complex Acts as a Bidirectional Switch to Regulate Metabotropic Glutamate Receptor-Dependent Plasticity in Hippocampal CA1 Pyramidal Neurons
Authors: Sharma Mahima , Sajikumar Sreedharan
Published: June 2018

Metabotropic glutamate receptor-dependent long-term depression (mGluR-LTD) is conventionally considered to be solely dependent on local protein synthesis. Given the impact of epigenetics on memory, the intriguing question is whether epigenetic regulation influences mGluR-LTD as well. G9a/GLP histone lysine methyltransferase complex is crucial for brain development and goal-directed learning as well as for drug-addiction. In this study, we analyzed whether the epigenetic regulation by G9a/GLP complex affects mGluR-LTD in CA1 hippocampal pyramidal neurons of 5–7 weeks old male Wistar rats. In hippocampal slices with intact CA1 dendritic regions, inhibition of G9a/GLP activity abolished mGluR-LTD. The inhibition of this complex upregulated the expression of plasticity proteins like PKMζ, which mediated the prevention of mGluR-LTD expression by regulating the NSF-GluA2-mediated trafficking of AMPA receptors towards the postsynaptic site. G9a/GLP inhibition during the induction of mGluR-LTD also downregulated the protein levels of phosphorylated-GluA2 and Arc. Interestingly, G9a/GLP inhibition could not impede the mGluR-LTD when the cell-body was severed. Our study highlights the role of G9a/GLP complex in intact neuronal network as a bidirectional switch; when turned on, it facilitates the expression of mGluR-LTD, and when turned off, it promotes the expression of long-term potentiation.
Combined Biomarkers Predict Acute Mortality Among Critically Ill Patients With Suspected Sepsis*
Authors: Kelly Brendan J. , Lautenbach Ebbing , Nachamkin Irving , Coffin Susan E. , Gerber Jeffrey S. , Fuchs Barry D. , Garrigan Charles , Han Xiaoyan , Bilker Warren B. , Wise Jacqueleen , Tolomeo Pam , Han Jennifer H.
Published: June 2018

Objectives:

Sepsis is associated with high early and total in-hospital mortality. Despite recent revisions in the diagnostic criteria for sepsis that sought to improve predictive validity for mortality, it remains difficult to identify patients at greatest risk of death. We compared the utility of nine biomarkers to predict mortality in subjects with clinically suspected bacterial sepsis.

Design:

Cohort study.

Setting:

The medical and surgical ICUs at an academic medical center.

Subjects:

We enrolled 139 subjects who met two or more systemic inflammatory response syndrome (systemic inflammatory response syndrome) criteria and received new broad-spectrum antibacterial therapy.

Interventions:

We assayed nine biomarkers (α-2 macroglobulin, C-reactive protein, ferritin, fibrinogen, haptoglobin, procalcitonin, serum amyloid A, serum amyloid P, and tissue plasminogen activator) at onset of suspected sepsis and 24, 48, and 72 hours thereafter. We compared biomarkers between groups based on both 14-day and total in-hospital mortality and evaluated the predictive validity of single and paired biomarkers via area under the receiver operating characteristic curve.

Measurements and Main Results:

Fourteen-day mortality was 12.9%, and total in-hospital mortality was 29.5%. Serum amyloid P was significantly lower (4/4 timepoints) and tissue plasminogen activator significantly higher (3/4 timepoints) in the 14-day mortality group, and the same pattern held for total in-hospital mortality (Wilcoxon p ≤ 0.046 for all timepoints). Serum amyloid P and tissue plasminogen activator demonstrated the best individual predictive performance for mortality, and combinations of biomarkers including serum amyloid P and tissue plasminogen activator achieved greater predictive performance (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve > 0.76 for 14-d and 0.74 for total mortality).

Conclusions:

Combined biomarkers predict risk for 14-day and total mortality among subjects with suspected sepsis. Serum amyloid P and tissue plasminogen activator demonstrated the best discriminatory ability in this cohort.
Small Finger to Ring Finger Ray Transposition: Modern Surgical Technique and Case-based Review of the Literature
Authors: Aliotta Rachel E. , Reyes Bryan A. , Bafus Blaine T.
Published: June 2018

Ray transposition for central digital amputation has been performed following traumatic injury to the hand for decades. Small finger to ring finger ray transposition has been well described in the literature, with good functional and aesthetic outcomes reported. Originally described by Bunnell, the fourth metacarpal can be disarticulated and the fifth metacarpal base transposed with reconstruction of the intermetacarpal ligament allowing progressive closure between the third and fifth rays. However, osteotomy-based transpositions are utilized placing the osteotomy at the level of the metacarpal, followed by transposition and fixation of the small finger to the base of the ring finger metacarpal; or, by making an intracarpal wedge-osteotomy of the hamate with subsequent radial translocation of the entire small finger ray. Recent literature has suggested the intracarpal wedge osteotomy to be superior technically, and with less postoperative complications. However, for this somewhat uncommon reconstructive procedure, no high-level evidence exists to determine which of these techniques is truly more favorable. Here, we present an interesting case of ray amputation and transposition following an isolated fourth metacarpal traumatic firearm injury, and comprehensive modern surgical technique. Upon review of the literature, small to ring finger ray transposition has been shown to have acceptable functional and aesthetic outcomes regardless of the osteotomy technique used, and should be considered when the nature of presenting injury and the patient’s lifestyle and postoperative expectations are appropriate.
Quetiapine Excretion Into Human Breast Milk
Authors: Yazdani-Brojeni Parvaneh , Tanoshima Reo , Taguchi Nobuko , Garcia-Bournissen Facundo , Wallach Izhar , Moretti Myla E. , Verjee Zulfikarali , Ito Shinya
Published: June 2018

Background

Risk assessment of the use of quetiapine during breastfeeding is challenging owing to a paucity of data.

Methods

A pharmacokinetic study was conducted in lactating women who were taking quetiapine. The primary endpoint was to determine quetiapine concentration profiles in milk and estimated infant exposure levels. Multiple milk and a single blood quetiapine concentrations were determined using a highly sensitive liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectroscopy method.

Results

Nine subjects receiving fast-release quetiapine (mean dose, 41 mg/d) were analyzed at steady state. The mean milk/plasma drug concentration ratio at 2-hour postdose was 0.47 (SD, 0.50; range, 0.13–1.67). The mean milk concentration of each patient was 5.7 ng/mL (SD, 4.5; range, 1.4–13.9 ng/mL). The mean infant quetiapine dose via milk per body weight relative to weight-adjusted maternal dose was 0.16 % (SD, 0.08; range, 0.04%–0.35%).

Conclusions

Infant exposure levels to quetiapine via milk are predicted to be very small.
The Natural History and Rehabilitative Outcomes of Hearing Loss in Congenital Cytomegalovirus: A Systematic Review
Authors: Fletcher Kyle T. , Horrell Erin M. Wolf , Ayugi John , Irungu Catherine , Muthoka Maria , Creel Liza M. , Lester Cathy , Bush Matthew L.
Published: June 2018

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to examine the literature regarding the natural history and rehabilitative outcomes of sensorineural hearing loss from congenital cytomegalovirus infections.

Data Sources and Study Eligibility Criteria:

A systematic search was performed in PubMed, PsychINFO, CINAHL, and Web of Science to identify peer-reviewed research. Eligible studies were those containing original peer-reviewed research in English addressing either the natural history or rehabilitative outcomes of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) in congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV).

Study Appraisal and Synthesis Methods:

Two investigators independently reviewed all articles and extracted data. Bias was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration's tool and the Newcastle-Ottawa Assessment Scale.

Results:

Thirty-six articles were reviewed. Universal screening identifies 0.2 to 1% of newborns with cCMV infection. SNHL ranged from 8 to 32% of infants and was more prevalent in symptomatic versus asymptomatic cases. Nine to 68% of hearing loss occurs in a late or delayed fashion. In 7 to 71% of cases hearing loss is progressive. Cochlear implantation (CI) is a viable option for patients with cCMV associated hearing loss and leads to improvements in hearing and language. There is limited literature comparing rehabilitation outcomes in cCMV and non-cCMV CI recipients.

Conclusion:

Late onset and progressive hearing loss is seen in children who develop hearing loss from cCMV. Frequent audiologic follow-up is necessary considering the natural history of cCMV hearing loss. Universal screening should be pursued due to the number of asymptomatic children, at birth, who develop late onset/delayed hearing loss. CI is an effective means of improving speech and language in this population.
Incidence of Intralabyrinthine Schwannoma: A Population-based Study Within the United States
Authors: Marinelli John P. , Lohse Christine M. , Carlson Matthew L.
Published: June 2018

Objective:

To describe the incidence of intralabyrinthine schwannoma (ILS) utilizing the Rochester Epidemiology Project (REP), a unique medical consortium in the United States that covers a complete population of all ages in a well-defined geographic area over the past half-century.

Patients:

All patients with ILS diagnosed between January 1, 1966 and December 31, 2016 in Olmsted County, Minnesota, identified using the REP medical records-linkage system.

Main Outcome Measures:

Incidence of ILS.

Results:

Fourteen incident cases of ILS were identified in Olmsted County since 1966—a period spanning 5.9 million person-years. Over the past decade, the incidence rate of ILS was 0.81 per 100,000 person-years and 1.1 over the last 5 years. Since 1966, the cumulative incidence rate of ILS over the past 50 years was 0.26 per 100,000 person-years. The median age at diagnosis was 60 years (interquartile ranges, 39–70). Incidence increased with age: over the last 5 years, those aged 60 to 69 exhibited an incidence rate of 2.7 per 100,000 person-years and those 70+ displayed a rate of 4.1. All patients had varying levels of asymmetrical sensorineural hearing loss with 64% of patients presenting with class D hearing. Four (29%) patients had a history of sudden sensorineural hearing loss, five (36%) reported imbalance and/or vertigo, and four (29%) reported aural fullness. Three of the 14 (21%) patients had neurofibromatosis type 2.

Conclusion:

The incidence of ILS exceeds 1 per 100,000 person-years with modern diagnostic imaging. The rising incidence of ILS in recent years most likely reflects improved capacity for disease detection rather than a true increase in tumor development. Given the reputability of the REP consortium, these data suggest that ILS comprises a more common entity than previously considered.
BAHA Skin Complications in the Pediatric Population: Systematic Review With Meta-analysis
Authors: Shapiro Scott , Ramadan Jad , Cassis Adam
Published: June 2018

Objective:

Compare the incidence of skin and surgical site complications for children undergoing percutaneous and transcutaneous bone conduction implant (pBCI and tBCI) surgery via systematic review and meta-analysis of the available data.

Data Sources:

1) Search of PubMed, Web of Science, and EBSCOhost databases from January 2012 to April 2017. 2) References of studies meeting initial criteria.

Study Selection:

Inclusion criteria were studies that involved patients less than 18 years old undergoing tBCI or pBCI surgery with a BI300 implant and reported skin complications, implant loss, and need for revision surgery. Exclusion criterion was use of a previous generation implant.

Data Extraction:

Implants used, number of patients, age, surgical technique, Holgers score, incidence of skin complication, implant loss, and reoperation. Bias assessment performed with the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale.

Data Synthesis:

Twenty-two studies (14 tBCI, 8 pBCI) met criteria. Meta-analysis was performed using a random effects model. Cochran's Q score and I2 inconsistency were used to assess for heterogeneity. Overall estimated skin complication rate for tBCIs was 6.3% versus 30% for pBCIs (p = 4 × 10−12). Implant loss was 0% for tBCIs and 5.3% for pBCIs (p = 0.004). Reoperation rate was 3.0% and 6.2% for tBCIs and pBCIs respectively (p = 0.00002).

Conclusion:

There is strong evidence to suggest that in pediatric patients, the incidence of skin complications, implant loss, and rate of reoperation are higher for pBCIs compared with tBCIs. This information should be part of any discussion about BCI surgery on a pediatric patient.
Association of fatty liver index with the risk of incident cardiovascular disease and acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Olubamwo Olubunmi O. , Virtanen Jyrki K. , Voutilainen Ari , Kauhanen Jussi , Pihlajamäki Jussi , Tuomainen Tomi-Pekka
Published: June 2018

Background

Fatty liver disease (FLD) has been identified as constituting cardiometabolic risk. However, evidence on the association of fatty liver index (FLI) with cardiovascular disease (CVD) is largely cross-sectional, with limited evidence on the predictability of incident CVD, and specifically, acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Therefore, we aimed to investigate the prospective associations between fatty liver as estimated by FLI and incident CVD, and specifically AMI, in the Kuopio Ischaemic Heart Disease Risk Factor Study cohort.

Patients and methods

Our patients were 1205 middle-aged men free of CVD at baseline. The associations of baseline FLI with incident CVD and incident AMI were analyzed using multivariable-adjusted Cox regression models.

Results

During a median follow-up of 17 years, a total of 690 incident cases of CVD and 269 cases of AMI were recorded through Finnish registries. For incident CVD, for the high (FLI≥60) versus the low (≤30) FLI category, the hazard ratio (HR) was 1.77 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.46–2.14] in the minimally adjusted model. With increasing adjustment, the association was attenuated progressively. In the most adjusted model, the HR was 1.41 (95% CI: 1.10–1.79). For incident AMI, for the high FLI category, the HR was 1.65 (95% CI: 1.22–2.23) in the minimally adjusted model, but in most comprehensive models when we included metabolic factors, the HR was not significant (HR=1.136, 95% CI: 0.777–1.662).

Conclusion

FLI can predict incident CVD. However, the predictability of AMI using FLI is subject to interactions of metabolic factors. Individuals with FLI in the moderate to high category should be evaluated and monitored for subclinical or overt cardiovascular (including coronary) disease.
Cesarean Delivery Rates and Costs of Childbirth in a State Medicaid Program After Implementation of a Blended Payment Policy
Authors: Kozhimannil Katy B. , Graves Amy J. , Ecklund Alexandra M. , Shah Neel , Aggarwal Reena , Snowden Jonathan M.
Published: June 2018

Background:

Nearly half of US births are financed by Medicaid, and one-third of births occur by cesarean delivery, at double the cost of vaginal delivery. With the goal of reducing unnecessary cesarean use and improving value, in 2009 Minnesota’s Medicaid program introduced a blended payment rate for uncomplicated births (ie, a single facility or professional services payment regardless of delivery mode).

Objective:

We evaluated the effect of the blended payment policy on cesarean use and costs for Medicaid fee-for-service births.

Methods:

We identified births in Medicaid Analytic Extract files from 3 years before and after the 2009 payment change in Minnesota and in 6 control states. We used a quarterly interrupted time series approach to assess policy-related changes in study outcomes, comparing Minnesota to control states. Outcomes included cesarean delivery, childbirth hospitalization costs, and maternal morbidity.

Results:

Minnesota’s prepolicy cesarean rate (22.8%) decreased 0.27 percentage points per quarter after the policy for a total decrease of 3.24 percentage points, compared with control states (P=0.01). The cost of childbirth hospitalizations in Minnesota dropped by $425.80 at the time of the policy. Postpolicy, childbirth hospitalization costs continued to decrease in Minnesota relative to prepolicy by $95.04 per quarter, and declined more than control states (P<0.001). There were no significant policy effects on maternal morbidity.

Conclusions:

Implementation of a single, blended payment to facilities and clinicians for uncomplicated births mitigated trends toward greater use of cesarean and rising costs of childbirth hospitalization, without adverse effects on maternal morbidity.
Adverse Events and Reinterventions Following Pancreatic Endoscopic Sphincterotomy
Authors: Dufault Darin L. , Elmunzer B. Joseph , Cotton Peter B. , Williams April , Cote Gregory A.
Published: June 2018

Objectives

Pancreatic endoscopic sphincterotomy (PES) is an independent risk factor for short- and long-term adverse events (AEs) of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. We sought to measure PES-specific AEs and trends in the use of PES.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort of consecutive patients who underwent first-time PES between June 2008 and June 2015. Indications for PES were dichotomized: (1) structural pathology (chronic pancreatitis and local complications of acute pancreatitis) and (2) suspected sphincter pathology (idiopathic recurrent acute pancreatitis and sphincter of Oddi dysfunction). Rates of AEs and pancreatic orifice reinterventions were measured, with reintervention rates limited to those having a minimum of 12-month follow-up.

Results

Of 567 patients, 198 (34.9%) underwent PES for structural and 369 (65.1%) for suspected sphincter pathology. Rates of post–endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis and unplanned hospitalization were high when PES was originally performed for suspected sphincter pathology (12.6% and 14.6%, respectively). The overall reintervention rate was 28.9% and significantly greater for sphincter (41.7%) compared with structural pathology (13.5%, P = 0.005).

Conclusions

The likelihood of reintervention after PES is high, particularly when the primary indication is suspected sphincter pathology such as idiopathic recurrent acute pancreatitis. Further prospective studies are needed to clarify if and when this maneuver confers significant benefit to patients.
An Observational Cohort Feasibility Study to Identify Microvesicle and Micro-RNA Biomarkers of Acute Kidney Injury Following Pediatric Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Sullo Nikol , Mariani Silvia , JnTala Maria , Kumar Tracy , Woźniak Marcin J. , Smallwood Dawn , Pais Paolo , Westrope Claire , Lotto Attilio , Murphy Gavin J.
Published: June 2018

Objectives:

Micro-RNA, small noncoding RNA fragments involved in gene regulation, and microvesicles, membrane-bound particles less than 1 μm known to regulate cellular processes including responses to injury, may serve as disease-specific biomarkers of acute kidney injury. We evaluated the feasibility of measuring these signals as well as other known acute kidney injury biomarkers in a mixed pediatric cardiac surgery population.

Design:

Single center prospective cohort feasibility study.

Setting:

PICU.

Patients:

Twenty-four children (≤ 17 yr) undergoing cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass without preexisting inflammatory state, acute kidney injury, or extracorporeal life support.

Interventions:

None.

Measurements and Main Results:

Acute kidney injury was defined according to modified Kidney Diseases Improving Global Outcomes criteria. Blood and urine samples were collected preoperatively and at 6–12 and 24 hours. Microvesicles derivation was assessed using flow cytometry and NanoSight analysis. Micro-RNAs were isolated from plasma and analyzed by microarray and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Data completeness for the primary outcomes was 100%. Patients with acute kidney injury (n = 14/24) were younger, underwent longer cardiopulmonary bypass, and required greater inotrope support. Acute kidney injury subjects had different fractional content of platelets and endothelial-derived microvesicles before surgery. Platelets and endothelial microvesicles levels were higher in acute kidney injury patients. A number of micro-RNA species were differentially expressed in acute kidney injury patients. Pathway analysis of candidate target genes in the kidney suggested that the most often affected pathways were phosphatase and tensin homolog and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 signaling.

Conclusions:

Microvesicles and micro-RNAs expression patterns in pediatric cardiac surgery patients can be measured in children and potentially serve as tools for stratification of patients at risk of acute kidney injury.
SANTA-SIM: Simulating Viral Sequence Evolution Dynamics Under Selection and Recombination
Authors: Jariani Abbas , Warth Christopher , Deforche Koen , Libin Pieter , J Drummond Alexei , Rambaut Andrew , Matsen Frederick A , Theys Kristof
Published: June 2018

Simulations are widely used to provide expectations and predictive distributions under known conditions against which to compare empirical data. Such simulations are also invaluable for testing and comparing the behavior and power of inference methods. We describe SANTA-SIM, a software package to simulate the evolution of a population of gene sequences forwards through time. It models the underlying biological processes as discrete components: replication, recombination, point mutations, insertion-deletions, and selection under various fitness models and population size dynamics. The software is designed to be intuitive to work with for a wide range of users and executable in a cross-platform manner.
Engineered Microbes to Sense and Respond to Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli
Authors: Bete A. , Carter J. , Davis C. , Dong J. , Herrmann M. , Jesse H. , McDonald D. , Menart P. , Poole A. , Smith A.
Published: June 2018

Every year, Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC), the most common form of traveler’s diarrhea, affects thousands of military personnel deployed overseas. The goal of this research was to engineer non-pathogenic E. coli to sense ETEC, respond to its presence, and package the non-pathogenic E. coli in a cellulose matrix to enable environmental detection of ETEC. Two plasmids were created: ‘sense-respond’; and ‘packaging’. The sense-respond plasmid detected autoinducer 2 (AI-2), a quorum sensing molecule created by most ETEC strains, by expressing LsrR which switches on the Lsr promoter. Activation of the Lsr promoter expresses superfolder green fluorescent protein (sfGFP), indicating the presence of ETEC. The packaging plasmid expresses a fusion protein consisting of curli fibers and cellulose binding domains. These modified surface proteins permit the bacteria to bind to cellulose, encapsulating the sense-response module. This genetically engineered machine could be deployed in both the internal and external environment to detect ETEC.
Does Compliance Pay? Social Standards and Firm‐Level Trade
Authors: Distelhorst Greg , Locke Richard M.
Published: June 2018

What is the relationship between trade and social institutions in the developing world? The research literature is conflicted: Importing firms may demand that trading partners observe higher labor and environmental standards, or they may penalize higher standards that raise costs. This study uses new data on retailers and manufacturers to analyze how firm‐level trade responds to information about social standards. Contrary to the “race to the bottom” hypothesis, it finds that retail importers reward exporters for complying with social standards. In difference‐in‐differences estimates from over 2,000 manufacturing establishments in 36 countries, achieving compliance is associated with a 4% [1%, 7%] average increase in annual purchasing. The effect is driven largely by the apparel industry—a long‐term target of anti‐sweatshop social movements—suggesting that activist campaigns can shape patterns of global trade.
GENERALIZED FRAMEWORK FOR APPLYING THE KELLY CRITERION TO STOCK MARKETS
Authors: BYRNES TIM , BARNETT TRISTAN
Published: June 2018

We develop a general framework for applying the Kelly criterion to the stock market. By supplying an arbitrary probability distribution modeling the future price movement of a set of stocks, the Kelly fraction for investing each stock can be calculated by inverting a matrix involving only first and second moments. The framework works for one or a portfolio of stocks and the Kelly fractions can be efficiently calculated. For a simple model of geometric Brownian motion of a single stock we show that our calculated Kelly fraction agrees with existing results. We demonstrate that the Kelly fractions can be calculated easily for other types of probabilities such as the Gaussian distribution and correlated multivariate assets.
Emergency Rescue Vehicle Dispatch Planning Using a Hybrid Algorithm
Authors: Cao Jie , Han He , Jiang Yi-Ping , Wang Ya-Jing
Published: June 2018

This paper describes the emergency rescue vehicle transportation network within the entire rescue period, and imitates rescue vehicle to select rescue route and to allocate emergency resource. The presented emergency rescue vehicle dispatch model seeks to minimize rescue time as the first objective function, minimize delay cost as the second objective function and maximize lifesaving utility as the last objective function in disaster response operations. To solve the proposed multiple objective model, a hybrid algorithm named nondominated sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA-II) with ant colony algorithm and a NSGA-II with random crossover and mutation, which can find better initial solution, are presented. In order to further prove the validity of the model and algorithm, a more complicated case is cited. Computational results are reported to illustrate the performance of the proposed model and algorithm. Statistical analysis confirms that the proposed random crossover and mutation operator outperforms the original crossover and mutation operator. The sensitivity analysis proves which parameter is more important for objective function values.
Dynamics of single-field inflation in the framework of holographic f(T) gravity
Authors: Chattopadhyay Surajit , Pasqua Antonio , Radinschi Irina , Beesham Aroonkumar
Published: June 2018

In the work reported in the present paper, we have considered the inflationary dynamics inspired by holographic Ricci dark energy (HRDE) with the energy density [Formula: see text] in the framework of [Formula: see text] gravity. We have considered a [Formula: see text]-gravity model in linear form, which is sourced by a canonical scalar field due to the HRDE. We have investigated an inflationary Universe in this framework through slow-roll formalism. We also studied the scalar spectral index [Formula: see text] and tensor-to-scalar ratio [Formula: see text], which have come out to be in agreement with WMAP[Formula: see text]BAO[Formula: see text][Formula: see text] and Planck 2015 data.
Ethanol addition for morphology regulation of TiO2 nanorod arrays towards efficient hole-conductor-free perovskite solar cells
Authors: Wang Yijie , Li Yingxiu , Guo Zhirang , Liu Wei , Zhang Rui , Chu Liang , Li Xing’ao
Published: June 2018

TiO2 nanorod arrays (NAs) were synthesized with different morphology based on ethanol addition in the TiO2 precursors for efficient hole-conductor-free perovskite solar cells (PSCs). The morphology and optical properties of samples based on TiO2 NAs prepared with a different amount of ethanol added in TiO2 precursors were analyzed. The results indicated that ethanol addition in TiO2 precursors help regulate the morphology of TiO2 NAs and improve the photovoltaic performance of the PSCs based on TiO2 NAs. Finally, the carbon-based PSCs with 96[Formula: see text]nm TiO2 NAs in diameter by 1[Formula: see text]mL of ethanol addition achieved the optimal performance with a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 11.86%. The results can offer inspiration for performance improvement of PSCs based on TiO2 NAs.
Electrical properties of Y-type hexaferrite
Authors: Sahu Bibhuti B. , Patri S. K. , Behera Banarji , Maharana B.
Published: June 2018

The polycrystalline sample of Ba2Mg2Fe[Formula: see text]O[Formula: see text] was prepared by solid-state reaction technique. Room-temperature X-ray diffraction (XRD) has confirmed the formation of rhombohedral structure. The electrical properties of the sample were studied in wide ranges of temperatures and frequencies. The impedance analysis indicates the presence of bulk effect. The bulk resistance of the material decreases with rise in temperature and exhibits NTCR behavior. This compound also exhibits the temperature-dependent non-Debye type of relaxation phenomena. The presence of non-Debye type of relaxation has been confirmed by the complex impedance analysis. The variation of DC conductivity (bulk) with temperature demonstrates that the compound exhibits Arrhenius type of electrical conductivity. The activation energy of the compound is found to be 0.55[Formula: see text]eV in high-temperature region.
Doctor Who and the politics of casting
Authors: Jowett Lorna
Published: June 2018

This article argues that while long-running science fiction series Doctor Who (1963–89, 1996, 2005–present) has started to address a lack of diversity in its casting, there are still significant imbalances. Characters appearing in single episodes are more likely to be colourblind cast than recurring and major characters, particularly the title character. This is problematic for the BBC as a public service broadcaster but is also indicative of larger inequalities in the television industry. Examining various examples of actors cast in Doctor Who, including Pearl Mackie who plays companion Bill Potts, the article argues that while steady progress is being made – in the series and in the industry – colourblind casting often comes into tension with commercial interests and more risk-averse decision-making.
A Criminological Review on ʽCornering the Marketʽ Practice in Securities Trading in Capital Market (a Study in Indonesia)
Authors: SUFM Dasco Ahmad , Aldyan Arsyad , Pujiyono Pujiyono
Published: June 2018

This article regards criminological study on ʽcornering the marketʽ practice in securities trading in capital market. Cornering the Market can be considered as creating a pseudo or misleading representation because when the actors do their action creates a representation that securities trading seems to be active and to increase dramatically, viewed from the condition of trading volume market, leading to the increase in the price of securities due to purchasing in large volume and eventually resulting in the decrease due to selling in large volume by the actors of Cornering the Market. In Indonesia, Cornering the Market practice is a crime, the manipulation crime in securities trade. It breaks the provision of Articles 91 and 92 of Republic of Indonesia’s Law Number 8 of 1995 about Capital Market and Article II.9 of Regulation Number II-A about Equity Stock Trading. Considering the provision of Article 104 of Law Number 8 of 1995 about Capital Market, Cornering the Market practice can be threatened with 10-years imprisonment and fine of IDR 15.000.000.000,00 (fifteen billions rupiah).
Centros de política y movilización de conocimiento en el campo de la educación en Argentina
Authors: Gorostiaga Jorge M. , Palamidessi Mariano I. , Aberbuj Claudia M.
Published: June 2018

Este artículo describe los procesos de producción y movilización de conocimiento sobre educación por parte de dos centros de política en la Argentina durante la década de 2000. Se inscribe en las discusiones teóricas sobre el uso de conocimiento en los procesos de generación de políticas públicas y sobre el rol de los think tanks.  Los dos casos seleccionados se analizan en relación a la definición de sus agendas temáticas; el financiamiento y la conformación de sus equipos de trabajo; sus estrategias de producción y movilización del conocimiento; y las (dis)continuidades con la acción de centros de política en la década de 1990.
Minimally Invasive Direct Coronary Artery Bypass for the management of Anomalous Left Coronary Artery from the Right Coronary Sinus
Authors: Pawale Amit , Takahashi Mitsuko , Seetharam Karthik , Reddy Ramachandra C
Published: June 2018

Objective: Anomalous left coronary artery from the right coronary sinus (ALCA) is a known cause of sudden death. Surgical correction is recommended for all patients with interarterial course. We describe 2 patients who underwent surgical correction through an off pump- minimally invasive direct coronary artery bypass (MIDCAB) approach with good short and mid-term results.
Monitoring Left Atrial Pressure With a Useful Epidural Catheter
Authors: Arnaz Ahmet , Altun Dilek
Published: June 2018

Background: Left atrial pressure (LAP) monitoring provides a valuable option for management of hemodynamic status in pediatric congenital heart surgery during the postoperative period.Methods: We used a Perifix Soft Tip 701 filter set catheter (B. Braun Melsungen AG 34209 Melsungen, Germany), which is commonly used for continuous epidural anesthesia. The catheter was placed into the left atrium to provide LAP monitoring. The study included 33 children, who needed LAP monitoring during and post-surgery between January 2016 and September 2017. Patients retrospectively were reviewed for ease of catheter placement, effectivity, accurate LAP, postoperative stability, and complications after removal of the catheter, including bleeding, air embolism, or thromboembolic events.Results: Patients ranged in age from 2 days to 131.27 months (Mean 11.80 days ± 25.76 days). Fifteen patients were newborn. Of the newborn patients, 39.4% (N = 13) were female. Catheters successfully were implanted in all patients, and there were no procedural complications. Left atrial catheters were removed between 1 to 12 days, with an average of 3.55 days ± 3.39 days before chest tube removal. During follow-up, patients did not suffer complications, such as thrombus formation, catheter-related infection, systemic embolism or stroke. Also, after the catheter was withdrawn, patients did not suffer from bleeding, haemodynamic deterioration, catheter retention, or require the need for intervention. During the stay in ICU, catheter nonfunction was the most frequent complication at 12.1 percent (N = 4). Conclusion: This is a simple, easy, and safe technique for wide use in congenital cardiac surgery patients.
Successful Surgical Treatment of Giant Coronary Artery Aneurysm and Concomitant Coronary Artery Fistula to the Pulmonary Artery
Authors: Suzuki Keito , Kimura Naoyuki , Sezai Akira , Unosawa Satoshi , Taoka Makoto , Osaka Shunji , Tanaka Masashi
Published: June 2018

Giant coronary artery aneurysm (GCAA) combined with coronary artery fistula to the pulmonary artery (PA) is rare. A 79-year-old man was accidentally discovered with GCAA. He was operated on by use of aneurysmorrhaphy, and closure of the fistulae was performed. Because ischemic changes appeared, coronary artery bypass grafting was done. The postoperative course was uneventful, and the patient was discharged on postoperative day 14. We report here a case of GCAA with a size of 66 × 52 mm in diameter associated with a fistula formation into the PA. It is one of the largest sizes of GCAA that has occurred after fistula formation.
Physio-chemical investigation and analyses of contaminants in groundwater flow. Case study - Papalanto, Ifo local government area, South - Western Nigeria, Ogun State
Authors: OLORODE Oluwaseun Deborah , ADENEYE Samuel Olaolu , MORAKİNYO Aderonke Deborah , OYENEYİN Opeyemi Aliu , AKPOCHAFOR Michael Onoriode , OMOJOLA Akintayo Daniel
Published: June 2018

Objectives: Groundwater
is the primary source of drinking water for roughly, a third of the world’s
population, but highly vulnerable to pollution. A thorough research was carried
out to investigate the extent of groundwater contamination on four active
dumpsite and a control point at Papalanto, Abeokuta area, and South-Western
Nigeria. Methods: Domestic wells in the area facilitated the resources
for water chemistry. A total of five groundwater samples were collected from
wells located close to different dumpsite in the study area, to determine the
extent of groundwater contamination. Physio-chemical analysis was carried out
on the five water samples; the basic method adopted in the chemical analysis
includes titrimetric method, atomic absorption spectroscopy and calometric
method. Results: The results showed that water quality parameter like
temperature, pH, taste, odour, total solids, sulphate, copper, iron, zinc, cadmium
and chromium are in appropriate standard prescribed by WHO and NSDWQ. Other
physical parameters like color, turbidity, conductivity, total suspended
solids, total dissolved solid, total hardness, total alkalinity, total acidity,
calcium, magnesium, chloride, nitrite, manganese, lead, nickel, nitrate, have
higher values than the authorized standard value, which directly or indirectly
affect the water content found in the area for drinking purpose. These features
could be attributed to the possible activities of contaminants facilitated by
leachate plume from the dumpsite. Conclusions: The
study shows that the regolith aquifer in the area of study is highly vulnerable
to pollution from the refuse dumps. From the geophysical and physio-chemical
analysis carried out, the values of most parameters obtained in the water
samples collected at locations close to the leachate have been confirmed to be
higher than those collected at locations away from the leachate. Hence, the
groundwater near the leachate is confirmed contaminated.
Greater potentiality of sperm membrane bound fertility associated antigen to withstand oxidative stress ensuing improved sperm function of cryopreserved bull spermatozoa
Authors: Pande Megha , Srivastava N. , Kumar S. , Soni Y. K. , Kumar M. , Tyagi S. , Sirohi A. S. , Chand N. , . Omerdin , Arya S.
Published: June 2018

Fertility associated antigen (FAA) are more abundant in semen of bulls with high fertility. The objective was to investigate relationship of FAA, either membrane bound and/or in seminal plasma, with that of markers of oxidative stress, mitochondrial activity and acrosome integrity of live cells, in cryopreserved spermatozoa. Grouping of bulls was done by electrophoretic profiling of proteins from seminal plasma (SP), and sperm membrane (SM), based on presence/absence of the FAA in SP and/or SM or both. Group I had detectable FAA in both SP and SM; Group II, FAA detected only in SM; Group III, detectable FAA only in SP and Group IV, undetectable FAA in both SP and SM. At post-thaw stage, the lipid peroxide levels were significantly lower (p Lass Than 0.05) and the activity of primary free radical scavengers (superoxide dismutase and catalase) was significantly higher (p Lass Than 0.05) in Groups I and II. Correspondingly, Group I and II showed significantly higher (p Lass Than 0.05) per cent of acrosome intact live spermatozoa and sperm cells with functionally active mitochondria. Collectively, this study showed that the presence of FAA on the sperm membrane is related to greater protection against oxidative stress ensuing improved acrosome intact live-sperm cells with functional mitochondria.
Chazkel, Amy. Laws of Chance: Brazil’s Clandestine Lottery and the Making of Urban Public Life. Durham, NC: Duke University Press, 2011.
Authors: Loveless Megwen
Published: June 2018

In this dense historical analysis of the jogo do bicho, Amy Chazkel unearths the social, economic, juridical and criminal processes that both contested and helped to reinforce the popularity of illicit games of chance during Brazil’s First Republic.
Miceli, Sergio. Vanguardas em retrocesso. São Paulo: Companhia das Letras, 2012.
Authors: Gaiotto de Moraes Ricardo
Published: June 2018

O título aparentemente paradoxal, Vanguardas em retrocesso, desperta expectativas de leitura distintas, mas complementares. Depois de acompanhar os paratextos, tanto para quem leu outros livros de Sérgio Miceli, como Imagens negociadas ou Intelectuais à brasileira, quanto para quem é iniciante, a expressão “em retrocesso” adquire duas nuances: o estudo em retrospectiva do processo de formação dos artistas latino-americanos cujas obras costumam ser relacionadas às vanguardas históricas; a maneira como esse processo revela uma contradição flagrada na simbiose entre a produção artística modernizante e a agenda das oligarquias locais.
Ginzburg, Jaime. Literatura, violência e melancolia. Campinas: Editora Autores Associados, 2013.
Authors: Lehnen Leila
Published: June 2018

Literatura, violência e melancolia inquires whether literature can be effective in combating violence—defined as a material and historical human construct (8). The short, though not simple, answer is “yes.” Ginzburg’s most recent book thus proposes an activist vision of literature and, in more general terms, culture.
Villares, Lucia. Examining Whiteness: Reading Clarice Lispector through Bessie Head and Toni Morrison. London: Legenda Press, 2011.
Authors: Roncador Sonia
Published: June 2018

According to a number of cultural scholars, one of the most puzzling aspects of racial politics in Brazil has to do with the ability of elite Brazilians to reconcile mainstream ideologies of miscegenation and white supremacy. As Liv Sovik and John Norvell have argued, the hegemonic discourse of the nation’s morenidade (or brownness), which helped cover up the “uncomfortable” whiteness of an outnumbered elite in a mostly Afro-descendant country, has not prevented the same elite from exerting discriminatory practices to reproduce white privilege and social power.
Moreira, Paulo. Literary and Cultural Relations between Brazil and Mexico: Deep Undercurrents. New York: Palgrave Macmillan, 2013.
Authors: Saramago Victoria
Published: June 2018

In Literary and Cultural Relations between Brazil and Mexico: Deep Undercurrents, Paulo Moreira explores an often overlooked sub-domain in Latin American studies. In fact, one might initially ask how and why Brazil and Mexico are to be put side by side. After all, the two countries do not participate in well established areas of study in Latin America, like the South Cone, the Caribbean or the Amazonian region. Nevertheless, as Moreira shows, the two countries have been developing a broader set of exchanges than the insufficient number of comparative studies between them might suggest.
KÖYDE VE KENTTE YAŞAYAN ANNELERİN OKUL ÖNCESİ EĞİTİM KURUMLARINDAN BEKLENTİLERİ
Authors: Başal Handan Asude , Bağçeli Kahraman Pınar
Published: June 2018

Bu
araştırmanın amacı köyde ve kentte yaşayan ve çocuğu okul öncesi eğitim almakta
olan annelerin okul öncesi eğitim kurumlarından beklentilerini incelemektir.
Araştırma genel tarama modelinde gerçekleştirilmiştir. Araştırmanın örneklemini
kentte anaokullarına devam eden 100 çocuğun annesi ile, zorunlu hizmet bölgesi
olan köylerde yaşayan ve çocukları okul öncesi eğitim almakta olan 100 anne
oluşturmuştur. Araştırmada annelerin okul öncesi eğitim kurumlarından
beklentilerini belirlemek amacıyla Şimşek ve İvrendi (2014) tarafından
geliştirilmiş olan “Ailelerin Okul Öncesi Eğitim Kurumlarından Beklentileri”
Ölçeği kullanılmıştır. Ayrıca araştırmada çocuğun cinsiyeti, annenin eğitim
durumu hakkında bilgi almak amacıyla Kişisel Bilgi Formu da kullanılmıştır. Araştırmada
köy ve kentte yaşayan annelerin okul öncesi eğitimden beklentilerini betimlemek
amacıyla tanımlayıcı istatistikler ve cinsiyetin köyde ve kentte yaşamanın
beklentiler üzerindeki etkisini belirlemek amacıyla t Testi ile anne eğitim
düzeyinin köyde ve kentte yaşamanın beklentiler üzerindeki etkisini belirlemek
için Tek Yönlü Varyans Analizi ve parametrik olmayan alt boyutlar için ise
Mann-Whitney U Testi ve Kruskall Wallis-H Testi kullanılmıştır. Araştırmadan
elde edilen bulgulara göre; annelerin köyde ve kentte yaşama durumlarına göre
okul öncesi eğitim kurumlarından beklentileri öğretmen, eğitim ve aile, okul
politikası, bilgilendirme boyutlarında ve toplamında gruplar arasında kentte
yaşayan annelerin lehine anlamlı bir farklılık bulunmuştur. Ayrıca annenin
eğitim durumunun okul öncesi eğitim kurumundan beklentisini farklılaştırdığı
saptanmıştır.
ORTAOKUL VE LİSE ÖĞRENCİLERİNİN PSİKOLOJİK DANIŞMA VE REHBERLİK İHTİYAÇLARI
Authors: Çetinkaya Yıldız Evrim , Derin Sümeyye , Boran Murat
Published: June 2018

Bu çalışmanın amacı,
ortaokul ve lise öğrencilerinin psikolojik danışma ve rehberlik ihtiyaçlarını
belirleyerek bu ihtiyaçların cinsiyet, okul düzeyi, sınıf düzeyi, ağırlıklı not
ortalaması, anne eğitim düzeyi, baba eğitim düzeyi ve ailenin aylık ortalama geliri
değişkenlerine göre farklılaşıp farklılaşmadığını ortaya koymaktır. Tarama
modeli kullanılarak yürütülen bu araştırmaya 2016 bahar döneminde İç Anadolu
Bölgesindeki bir şehirde devlet okullarına (1237 ortaokul, 621 lise) devam eden
1858 öğrenci (955 kız, 903 erkek) gönüllü olarak katılmıştır. Bulgular cinsiyet
açısından incelendiğinde kız öğrencilerin eğitsel rehberlik ihtiyacının erkek
öğrencilere göre anlamlı derecede fazla olduğu, mesleki ve kişisel rehberlik
ihtiyaçları açısından ise anlamlı bir farklılaşma olmadığı görülmüştür. Okul
düzeyi açısından lise öğrencilerinin eğitsel ve mesleki rehberlik
ihtiyaçlarının ortaokul öğrencilerine göre anlamlı düzeyde daha fazla olduğu
ancak kişisel rehberlik ihtiyacının okul düzeyi açısından anlamlı bir farklılaşma
göstermediği bulunmuştur. Bulgular ilgili alan yazın ışığında diğer değişkenler
de dikkate alınarak tartışılmış ve okullarda çalışan psikolojik danışmanlara
önerilerde bulunulmuştur.
GÖRME ENGELLİ ÇOCUKLARA SAHİP ANNE-BABALARIN KAYGI DÜZEYLERİNİN İNCELENMESİ
Authors: Avşaroğlu Selahattin , Çavdar İsmet
Published: June 2018

Bu
araştırmada, görme engelli çocuğa sahip ailelerin sürekli-durumluk
kaygılarının cinsiyet, eğitim
durumu, yaşadıkları yer, çocuğun başka bir yetersizliği olup olmaması, okul
öncesi eğitime devam etme durumu, Braille Alfabesinin bilip bilinmemesi ve
diğer kardeşlerin engelli olup olmaması değişkenleri arasında farklılaşma
durumları incelenmiştir. Araştırma grubu, 93’ü anne ve 69’u baba olmak üzere
toplam 162 ebeveynden oluşmuştur.  Araştırmada veriler, “Kişisel Bilgi Formu”, ve
Öner ve Le Compte (1983) tarafından Türkçeye uyarlanan “Durumluk-sürekli Kaygı
Envanteri” ile Konya ili merkez ilçelerinden toplanmıştır. Verilerin test
edilmesi işleminde, değişkenlere bağlı olarak t testi ve tek yönlü varyans
analizi kullanılmıştır. Varyans analizi sonucunda anlamlı çıkan sonuçlar
farklılaşmanın kaynağının belirlenmesinde Tukey testi kullanılmıştır. Araştırma
sonucuna göre; cinsiyet, eğitim durumu, başka bir engelin olup olmaması,  okul öncesi eğitime devam edip etmemesi,
Braille Alfabesine göre durumluk kaygıda anlamlı farklılıklar bulunmuştur. Yaşanılan
yer değişkeni, diğer kardeşlerin engelli olup olmaması değişkenlerinde ise
anlamlı farklılıkların olmadığı belirlenmiştir. Sürekli kaygı puanlarında ise
eğitim durumu, başka bir engelin olup olmaması, okul öncesi eğitimine devam
edip etmemesi değişkeni, diğer kardeşlerinde engelli olup olmaması değişkenleri
puan ortalamalarında anlamlı farklılıklar çıkmıştır. Cinsiyet ve Braille Alfabesi
değişkenleri puan ortalamalarına göre anlamlı farklılıkların olmadığı görülmüştür.