bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chemoprevention with Enalapril and Aspirin in Men1(+/T) Knockout Mouse Model
Authors: Manoharan Jerena , Fendrich Volker , Di Fazio Pietro , Bollmann Carmen , Roth Silvia , Joos Barbara , Mintziras Ioannis , Albers Max B. , Ramaswamy Annette , Bertolino  Philippe , Zhang Chang X. , Slater Emily P. , Bartsch Detlef K. , Lopez-Lopez Caroline L.
Published: July 2018

Pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasias (pNEN) are the most common cause of death in adult patients with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1). So far, only few chemopreventive strategies (e.g., with somatostatin analogues) have been evaluated for MEN1 associated pNENs. In this experimental study on 75 Men1(+/T) knockout mice, the effect of aspirin (n = 25) and an inhibitor of angiotensin-I converting enzyme (enalapril, n = 25) compared to controls (n = 25) were evaluated as single chemopreventive strategies for pNENs after 6, 9, 12, 15, and 18 months. After each study period, mice were sacrificed and the resected pancreata were evaluated by histopathological analysis, immunostaining, and real-time PCR. PNEN size and number was measured. Aspirin and enalapril lead to a pNEN size reduction of 80% (167,518 vs. 838,876 µm2, p < 0.001) and 79% (174,758 vs. 838,876 µm2, p < 0.001) compared to controls. Furthermore, aspirin and enalapril treatment resulted in a significant reduction of the number of pNENs by 33%, (p = 0.04) and 41% (p = 0.002) respectively. The apoptosis marker caspase 3 revealed a higher positive expression in pNEN of treated Men1(+/T) mice. Immunostaining of VEGF in pNEN detected a downregulation of its expression in treated Men1(+/T) mice compared to the control group. REL A transcript was significantly downregulated in 18-months treated enalapril Men1(+/T) mice, but not in aspirin-treated Men1(+/T) mice. There was no significant difference in the Ki-67 index. Using a transgenic mouse model that imitates human MEN1, this study provides first evidence that aspirin and enalapril are effective chemopreventive agents that aid in the progression of pNENs.
Liraglutide Reduces Postprandial Hyperlipidemia by Increasing ApoB48 (Apolipoprotein B48) Catabolism and by Reducing ApoB48 Production in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Vergès Bruno , Duvillard Laurence , Pais de Barros Jean Paul , Bouillet Benjamin , Baillot-Rudoni Sabine , Rouland Alexia , Sberna Anne-Laure , Petit Jean-Michel , Degrace Pascal , Demizieux Laurent
Published: July 2018

Objective—

Treatment with liraglutide, a GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) agonist, has been shown to reduce postprandial lipidemia, an important feature of diabetic dyslipidemia. However, the underlying mechanisms for this effect remain unknown. This prompted us to study the effect of liraglutide on the metabolism of ApoB48 (apolipoprotein B48).

Approach and Results—

We performed an in vivo kinetic study with stable isotopes (D
8
-valine) in the fed state in 10 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus before treatment and 6 months after the initiation of treatment with liraglutide (1.2 mg/d). We also evaluated, in mice, the effect of a 1-week liraglutide treatment on postload triglycerides and analysed in vitro on jejunum, the direct effect of liraglutide on the expression of genes involved in the biosynthesis of chylomicron. In diabetic patients, liraglutide treatment induced a dramatic reduction of ApoB48 pool (65±38 versus 162±87 mg;
P
=0.005) because of a significant decrease in ApoB48 production rate (3.02±1.33 versus 6.14±4.27 mg kg
-1
d
-1
;
P
=0.009) and a significant increase in ApoB48 fractional catabolic rate (5.12±1.35 versus 3.69±0.75 pool d
-1
;
P
=0.005). One-week treatment with liraglutide significantly reduced postload plasma triglycerides in mice and liraglutide, in vitro, reduced the expression of ApoB48, DGAT1 (diacylglycerol O-acyltransferase 1), and MTP (microsomal transfer protein) genes.

Conclusions—

We show that treatment with liraglutide induces a significant reduction of the ApoB48 pool because of both a reduction of ApoB48 production and an increase in ApoB48 catabolism. In vitro, liraglutide reduces the expression of genes involved in chylomicron synthesis. These effects might benefit cardiovascular health.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT02721888.
HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) Metrics and Atherosclerotic Risk in Women
Authors: El Khoudary Samar R. , Ceponiene Indre , Samargandy Saad , Stein James H. , Li Dong , Tattersall Matthew C. , Budoff Matthew J.
Published: July 2018

Objective—

HDL-C (high-density lipoprotein cholesterol) may not always be cardioprotective in postmenopausal women. HDL particles (HDL-P) via ion-mobility may better reflect the antiatherogenicity of HDL. Objectives were (1) to evaluate associations of HDL-C and ion-mobility HDL-P with carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) and carotid plaque separately and jointly in women; and (2) to assess interactions by age at and time since menopause.

Approach and Results—

Analysis included 1380 females from the MESA (Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis; age: 61.8±10.3; 61% natural-, 21% surgical-, and 18% peri-menopause). Women with unknown or early menopause (age at nonsurgical menopause ≤45 years) were excluded. Adjusting for each other, higher HDL-P but not HDL-C was associated with lower cIMT (
P
=0.001), whereas higher HDL-C but not HDL-P was associated with greater risk of carotid plaque presence (
P
=0.04). Time since menopause significantly modified the association of large but not small HDL-P with cIMT; higher large HDL-P was associated with higher cIMT close to menopause but with lower cIMT later in life. The proatherogenic association reported for HDL-C with carotid plaque was most evident in women with later age at menopause who were >10 years postmenopausal.

Conclusions—

Elevated HDL-C may not always be cardioprotective in postmenopausal women. The cardioprotective capacity of large HDL-P may adversely compromise close to menopause supporting the importance of assessing how the menopause transition might impact HDL quality and related cardiovascular disease risk later in life.
Transcription Factor
Zhx2
Deficiency Reduces Atherosclerosis and Promotes Macrophage Apoptosis in Mice
Authors: Erbilgin Ayca , Seldin Marcus M. , Wu Xiuju , Mehrabian Margarete , Zhou Zhiqiang , Qi Hongxiu , Dabirian Keeyon S. , Sevag Packard René R. , Hsieh Wei , Bensinger Steven J. , Sinha Satyesh , Lusis Aldons J.
Published: July 2018

Objective—

The objective of this study was to determine the basis of resistance to atherosclerosis of inbred mouse strain BALB/cJ.

Approach and Results—

BALB/cJ mice carry a naturally occurring null mutation of the gene encoding the transcription factor
Zhx2
, and genetic analyses suggested that this may confer resistance to atherosclerosis. On a hyperlipidemic low-density lipoprotein receptor null background, BALB/cJ mice carrying the mutant allele for
Zhx2
exhibited up to a 10-fold reduction in lesion size as compared with an isogenic strain carrying the wild-type allele. Several lines of evidence, including bone marrow transplantation studies, indicate that this effect of
Zhx2
is mediated, in part, by monocytes/macrophages although nonbone marrow–derived pathways are clearly involved as well. Both in culture and in atherosclerotic lesions, macrophages from
Zhx2
null mice exhibited substantially increased apoptosis.
Zhx2
null macrophages were also enriched for M2 markers. Effects of
Zhx2
on proliferation and other bone marrow–derived cells, such as lymphocytes, were at most modest. Expression microarray analyses identified >1000 differentially expressed transcripts between
Zhx2
wild-type and null macrophages. To identify the global targets of
Zhx2
, we performed ChIP-seq (chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing) studies with the macrophage cell line RAW264.7. The ChIP-seq peaks overlapped significantly with gene expression and together suggested roles for transcriptional repression and apoptosis.

Conclusions—

A mutation of
Zhx2
carried in BALB/cJ mice is responsible in large part for its relative resistance to atherosclerosis. Our results indicate that
Zhx2
promotes macrophage survival and proinflammatory functions in atherosclerotic lesions, thereby contributing to lesion growth.
Mild Hypothermia in Cardiogenic Shock Complicating Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Fuernau Georg , Beck Johannes , Desch Steffen , Eitel Ingo , Jung Christian , Erbs Sandra , Mangner Norman , Lurz Philipp , Fengler Karl , Jobs Alexander , Vonthein Reinhard , de Waha-Thiele Suzanne , Sandri Marcus , Schuler Gerhard , Thiele Holger
Published: July 2018

Background:

Experimental trials suggest improved outcome by mild therapeutic hypothermia for cardiogenic shock after acute myocardial infarction. The objective of this study was to investigate the hemodynamic effects of mild therapeutic hypothermia in patients with cardiogenic shock complicating acute myocardial infarction.

Methods:

Patients (n=40) with cardiogenic shock undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention without classic indications for mild therapeutic hypothermia underwent randomization in a 1:1 fashion to mild therapeutic hypothermia for 24 hours or control. The primary end point was cardiac power index at 24 hours; secondary end points included other hemodynamic parameters and serial measurements of arterial lactate.

Results:

No relevant differences were observed for the primary end point of cardiac power index at 24 hours (mild therapeutic hypothermia versus control: 0.41 [interquartile range, 0.31–0.52] versus 0.36 [interquartile range, 0.31–0.48] W/m
2
;
P
=0.50; median difference, −0.025 W/m
2
; 95% CI, −0.12 to 0.06). Similarly, all other hemodynamic measurements were not statistically different. Arterial lactate levels at 6, 8, and 10 hours were significantly higher in patients in the mild therapeutic hypothermia group with a slower decline (
P
for interaction=0.03). There were no differences in 30-day mortality (60% versus 50%; hazard ratio, 1.27; 95% CI, 0.55–2.94;
P
=0.55).

Conclusions:

In this randomized trial, mild therapeutic hypothermia failed to show a substantial beneficial effect on cardiac power index at 24 hours in patients with cardiogenic shock after acute myocardial infarction.

Clinical Trial Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01890317.
Hox gene expression profiles during embryonic development of common sole
Authors: Kavouras Menelaos , Malandrakis Emmanouil E. , Golomazou Eleni , Konstantinidis Ioannis , Blom Ewout , Palstra Arjan P. , Anastassiadis Konstantinos , Panagiotaki Panagiota , Exadactylos Athanasios
Published: July 2018

Common sole (Solea solea) aquaculture production is based mostly on wild-caught breeders. Recently, the successful reproduction of first-generation fish that were reared in captivity was accomplished. A consistent good quality and quantity of produced eggs throughout the year, and of next-generation broodstock, is important for reducing the overall cost of production.Hoxgenes play a pivotal role in normal embryonic development and alterations of their temporal expression level may be important for egg viability. Expression profile analysis of fivehoxgenes (hoxa1a,hoxa2a,hoxa2b,hoxb1aandhoxb1b) involved in early embryonic development and ofhoxa13a, which is involved in late stages, was carried out. Results revealed a premature and/or maternal expression ofhoxa13ain sole embryos, and the detection ofhoxa2aandhoxa2bgenes as members of paralog group 2. Principal Component Analysis ofhoxgene expression in 54 ± 6 hours post fertilization embryos coming from wild-caught broodstock and a first-generation one reared in the hatchery, unveiled that these broodstocks are clearly distinct. In addition, their pairwise comparison revealed significant differences in the expression levels ofhoxb1aandhoxb1bgenes.Hoxgene regulation during embryonic development could give valuable insight into rearing sole broodstocks with different origin in concert, and also into gaining a steady mass production of eggs, either in quality or quantity, all year round.
“She Has Them Coming to Judaism”: Tradition and Jewish Affinity in Jewish Wills of Seventeenthcentury Livorno
Authors: Melcer-Padon Nourit
Published: July 2018

From its inception, the Jewish community in Livorno enjoyed a unique status, encouraging former conversos to settle there. In Livorno they could live openly as Jews. Thus, it is most interesting to study their attitude to their cultural heritage, according to the wills left by several of the Sephardi community’s prominent members. A linguistic analysis of phrases used by three testators is particularly revealing in assessing their positions regarding Judaism. Their words reflect anxiety and determination: a realization of hardships encountered by New Christians on their way to Judaism, and a further realization that only few will adhere to it.
Middle Stone Age Technologies in Mozambique: A Preliminary Study of the Niassa and Massingir Regions
Authors: Bicho Nuno , Cascalheira João , Haws Jonathan , Gonçalves Célia
Published: July 2018

Southeast Africa has become an important region for understanding the development of the Middle Stone Age (MSA) and Anatomically Modern Humans. Due to its location between east and southern Africa, Mozambique is a key region for evaluating the development of Homo sapiens and the MSA across Africa. Here, we present the first results of lithic analyses of MSA assemblages collected during survey and testing in the Niassa and Massingir regions of Mozambique in 2014-2016. We were able to locate close to 200 new Stone Age surface sites. Data show that raw material use is different in the two areas. The lithic assemblages from both areas show the use of centripetal technology, but in Massingir, Levallois points, the respective cores and blade technology are frequent, they are almost absent in the northern region.
Nomenclatural revision of Ficus sect. Americanae (Moraceae): typification of Ficus americana and allied species
Authors: PEDERNEIRAS LEANDRO CARDOSO , ROMANIUC-NETO SERGIO , MANSANO VIDAL DE FREITAS
Published: July 2018

Ficus sect. Americanae has ca. 160 accepted species and approximately 650 binomials in the neotropical region, many of which do not have a clearly designated holotype, lectotype, or neotype. In the present study, we revised all names of F. americana and allied species. With this, we designated a neotype for F. rojasi and lectotypes for the 22 following names: Ficus americana subsp. subapiculata, F. anacardiifolia, F. aureo-brunnea, F. bunquensis, F. chiribiquetensis, F. chiriquiana, F. coerulescens, F. corpulenta, F. cundinamarcensis, F. fresnoensis, F. eugeniifolia, F. jacquiniifolia, F. liebmanniana, F. maitin, F. maroana, F. martinii, F. microclada, F. oblanceolata, F. oerstediana, F. prinoides, F. splendens, and F. umbonigera.
Effect of Process- and Outcome-Based Financial Incentives on Weight Loss Among Prediabetic New York Medicaid Patients: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: VanEpps Eric M. , Troxel Andrea B. , Villamil Elizabeth , Saulsgiver Kathryn A. , Zhu Jingsan , Chin Jo-Yu , Matson Jacqueline , Anarella Joseph , Roohan Patrick , Gesten Foster , Volpp Kevin G.
Published: July 2018

Purpose:

To determine whether different financial incentives are effective in promoting weight loss among prediabetic Medicaid recipients.

Design:

Four-group, multicenter, randomized clinical trial.

Setting and Participants:

Medicaid managed care enrollees residing in New York, aged 18 to 64 years, and diagnosed as prediabetic or high risk for diabetes (N = 703).

Intervention:

In a 16-week program, participants were randomly assigned to one of 4 arms: (1) control (no incentives), (2) process incentives for attending weekly Diabetes Prevention Program sessions, (3) outcome incentives for achieving weekly weight loss goals, and (4) combined process and outcome incentives.

Measures:

Weight loss over a 16-week period; proportion who completed educational sessions; proportion who met weight loss goals.

Analysis and Results:

No intervention arm achieved greater reduction in weight than control (outcome incentive −6.6 lb [−9.1 to −4.1 lb], process incentive −7.3 lb [−9.5 to −5.1 lb], combined incentive −5.8 lb [−8.8 to −2.8 lb], control −7.9 lb [−11.1 to −4.7 lb]; all P > .29). Session attendance in the process incentive arm (50%) was significantly higher than control (31%; P < .0001) and combined incentive arms (28%; P < .0001), but not significantly higher than the outcome incentive arm (38%).

Conclusion:

Process incentives increased session attendance, but when combined at half strength with outcome incentives did not achieve that effect. There were no significant effects of either process or outcomes incentives on weight loss.
Entrepreneurial Architecture
Authors: Arshi Tahseen , Burns Paul
Published: July 2018

In spite of the recognition that entrepreneurship and innovation are interlinked, very few studies have attempted to articulate this relationship. The aim of this article is to explain the nature of the relationship between entrepreneurship and innovation in large firms, arguing that entrepreneurship is an antecedent to innovation. The study employs a multidimensional entrepreneurial architecture (EA) framework for the first time and tests the effect of a battery of entrepreneurship measures on innovation output, which is reflected as degree and frequency of incremental and radical innovations.  Adopting a quantitative approach, data were collected from 400 corporate firms in Oman representing various sectors of the economy. The EA dimensions reflected through entrepreneurial culture, entrepreneurial structure, entrepreneurial strategies and entrepreneurial leadership were tested through measurement and structural modelling. The results confirmed that entrepreneurship is a precursor to innovation. The EA framework, through its four dimensions, creates a collaborative and complimentary intensity that promotes innovation outputs, which may not be possible from the isolated effects of individual factors. The present study extends the extant literature, explaining how these entrepreneurship measures synergistically impact varying levels of innovation output. It has practical implications for managers in large firms involved in promoting innovation. They can transform the existing organisational architecture into an EA, by transplanting these entrepreneurship measures and creating a framework that promotes innovation.
Efficacy and Safety of a Biosimilar Versus Branded Enoxaparin in the Prevention of Venous Thromboembolism Following Major Abdominal Surgery: A Randomized, Prospective, Single-Blinded, Multicenter Clinical Trial
Authors: Ramacciotti Eduardo , Ferreira Ubirajara , Costa Agenor José Vasconcelos , Raymundo Selma Regina O. , Correa João Antônio , Neto Salvador Gullo , Osvaldt Alessandro Bersch , Agati Leandro , Aguiar Valéria Cristina Resende , Davila Ronaldo , Caltabiano Tania Benevenuto , Magella Flávia Magalhães , Volpiani Giuliano Giova , Castelli Valter , Caffaro Roberto Augusto , DalAcqua Lucas Zeponi , Matheus Wagner Eduardo , Sato Debora Yuri , Russeff Gleison Juliano da Silva , de Souza Daniela Garcia , Pazetto Lucas Eduardo , de Lima Tiago Aparecido Maschio , Colnago Eloá Maria da Silva , Fugii Eliane Yumii , Mussalem Juliana Sekeres , Assao Vanessa Therumi , Toffoletto Odaly , Rodrigues Debora Garcia , Afiune Jorge Barros , Araujo Gilson Roberto
Published: July 2018

Several biosimilar versions of enoxaparin are already approved and in use globally. Analytical characterization can establish good quality control in manufacturing, but they may not assure similarity in clinical outcomes between biosimilar and branded enoxaparin. This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of biosimilar Cristália versus branded Sanofi enoxaparin in venous thromboembolism (VTE) prevention in patients undergoing major abdominal surgery at risk for VTE. In this randomized, prospective single-blind study, we compared Cristália enoxaparin (Ce), a biosimilar version, versus branded Sanofi enoxaparin (Se; at a dose of 40 mg subcutaneously per day postoperatively from 7 to 10 days) in 243 patients submitted to major abdominal surgery at risk for VTE for VTE prevention. The primary efficacy outcome was occurrence of VTE or death related to VTE. The principal safety outcomes were a combination of major bleeding and clinically relevant non-major bleeding. Bilateral duplex scanning of the legs was performed from days 10 to 14, and follow-ups were performed up to 60 days after surgery. The incidence of VTE was 4.9% in the Cristália group and 1.1% in the Sanofi group (absolute risk difference = 3.80%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −1.4%-9.0%) yielding noninferiority since the 95% CI does not reach the prespecified value Δ = 20%. Clinically significant bleeding occurred in 9.9% in the Cristália group and in 5.5% in the Sanofi group (n.s. ). In conclusion, this study suggests that 40 mg once daily of Ce, a biosimilar enoxaparin, is as effective and safe as the branded Sanofi enoxaparin in the prophylaxis of VTE in patients submitted to major abdominal surgery at risk for VTE.
Association of Platelet to Lymphocyte Ratio and Risk of 30-Day Postoperative Complications in Patients Undergoing Abdominal Aortic Surgical Repair
Authors: Lareyre Fabien , Carboni Joseph , Chikande Julien , Massiot Nicolas , Voury-Pons Audrey , Umbdenstock Emilien , Jean-Baptiste Elixène , Hassen-Khodja Réda , Raffort Juliette
Published: July 2018

Introduction:

The predictive value of the platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR) has been demonstrated in several cardiovascular diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the interest of the preoperative PLR as a predictor of 30-day postoperative outcome in patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) undergoing open or endovascular surgical repair.

Material and Methods:

Two hundred twenty-four consecutive patients with infrarenal AAA were retrospectively included and divided into 4 quartiles according to the value of the preoperative PLR: PLR < 91.5 (group I), 91.5 < PLR < 120.8 (group II), 120.8 < PLR < 163.3 (group III), and PLR > 163.3 (group IV).

Results:

The AAA diameter was similar among the groups (54.9 mm vs 58.6, 57.5, and 58.7 mm; P = .4655). The proportion of symptomatic AAA and the procedural characteristics did not differ. Patients from group I and IV had significantly higher rates of all-cause postoperative complications compared to group II and III (55.4% and 64.3% vs 39.3% and 46.4%, respectively; P = .0478). The all-cause mortality tended to be higher in group I and IV (7.1% and 8.9% vs 0% and 3.6%, respectively; P = .1305).

Conclusion:

Extreme values of PLR are associated with a higher risk of complications following AAA surgical repair, suggesting its interest as a biomarker to evaluate the surgical risk.
Link for Schools: A System to Prevent Trauma and Its Adverse Impacts
Authors: Immerfall Sally J. , Ramirez Marizen R.
Published: July 2018

School-age children experience trauma at alarming rates. Children’s ability to attend, concentrate, and participate in the educational process can be adversely impacted by trauma. How can school staff, especially school nurses, best listen, support, and encourage a student with trauma in their lives? Link for Schools is an evidence-informed intervention program that provides information and training for school staff. Link provides tools for listening or responding to a traumatized student with a focus on the principles of trauma-informed care, psychological first aid, and elements of motivational interviewing. Link-trained staff are better equipped to develop a relationship with a student, but future research is recommended to supports its evidence base.
Electrophysiological and Behavioral Evidence of Reduced Binaural Temporal Processing in the Aging and Hearing Impaired Human Auditory System
Authors: Vercammen Charlotte , Goossens Tine , Undurraga Jaime , Wouters Jan , van Wieringen Astrid
Published: July 2018

A person’s ability to process temporal fine structure information is indispensable for speech understanding. As speech understanding typically deteriorates throughout adult life, this study aimed to disentangle age and hearing impairment (HI)-related changes in binaural temporal processing. This was achieved by examining neural and behavioral processing of interaural phase differences (IPDs). Neural IPD processing was studied electrophysiologically through steady-state activity in the electroencephalogram evoked by periodic changes in IPDs over time, embedded in the temporal fine structure of acoustic stimulation. In addition, behavioral IPD discrimination thresholds were determined for the same stimuli. To disentangle potential effects of age from those of HI, both measures were applied to six participant groups: young, middle-aged, and older persons, with either normal hearing or sensorineural HI. All participants passed a cognitive screening, and stimulus audibility was controlled for in participants with HI. The results demonstrated that HI changes neural processing of binaural temporal information for all age-groups included in this study. These outcomes were revealed, superimposed on age-related changes that emerge between young adulthood and middle age. Poorer neural outcomes were also associated with poorer behavioral performance, even though the behavioral IPD discrimination thresholds were affected by age rather than by HI. The neural outcomes of this study are the first to evidence and disentangle the dual load of age and HI on binaural temporal processing. These results could be a valuable first step toward future research on rehabilitation.
甲骨拼缀十则
Authors: 吴丽婉
Published: July 2018

摘要

文中收录十则缀合的甲骨, 每则缀合从甲骨形态、字体分类等方面说明缀合的理由并解释卜辞意思, 卜辞内容包括商代的贡纳、祭祀、田猎、疾病、战争、吉凶等事项, 为研究商史提供一些更完整更丰富的材料。
Chinese Herbal Medicine Versus Other Interventions in the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Yu Ao , Adelson David , Mills David
Published: July 2018

Diabetes affects 422 million people and directly caused 4.9 million deaths according to the global report on diabetes in 2014. Type 2 diabetes accounts for 90% of people with diabetes around the world. Chinese herbal medicine treatment for diabetes has more than 2000-year history in China. An increasing number of people around the world are trying to manage type 2 diabetes with Chinese herbal medicine. However, there is a lack of evidence to decide if Chinese herbal medicine is effective and safe when compared with other interventions for the treatment of type 2 diabetes We identified 58 randomized controlled trials involving 6637 participants with type 2 diabetes with trial periods lasting from 8 weeks to 1 year (average 12 weeks). We extracted data following a predefined hierarchy. A total of 132 different Chinese herbal medicines were examined. We included studies comparing Chinese herbal medicine with other interventions and excluded trials that did not satisfy the inclusion criteria. We evaluated primary outcomes of trials in accordance with the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Intervention. Fifty-six out of 58 studies reported evidence that Chinese herbal medicines were effective at controlling blood sugar, insulin resistance, and traditional Chinese medicine clinical symptoms for patients with type 2 diabetes. And outcome variables are summarized. However, the evidence is limited because of the quality of the studies. Well-designed long-term studies with large samples and multiple centers as well as standardization and quality control will be required to determine if Chinese herbal medicine treatment is effective and safe for type 2 diabetes.
Correlates of business survival: empirical evidence on youth-owned micro and small enterprises in Urban Ethiopia
Authors: Woldehanna Tasssew , Amha Wolday , Yonis Manex B.
Published: July 2018

This paper investigates the effects of person-, firm-, industry-, and business strategy-specific characteristics on the survival of youth-owned urban micro and small enterprises in Ethiopia. It employs nonparametric and semi-parametric methodologies using a retrospective data. The hazard rate reaches the highest point at business 2 years for micro enterprises and 4 years for small enterprises. Owner-, firm-, and industry-specific characteristics are important factors for micro and small enterprises’ (MSEs’) survival. Marketing and financial management strategies are playing a crucial role on extending MSEs’ survival duration. The study implies there should be more effective and longer period of support for micro than small enterprises.
МОРФОМЕТРИЧЕСКАЯ И ЦВЕТОВАЯ ХАРАКТЕРИСТИКА КИСЛОТОУСТОЙЧИВЫХ МИКОБАКТЕРИЙ КАК ОБЪЕКТОВ НА ЦИФРОВЫХ ИЗОБРАЖЕНИЯХ МОКРОТЫ, ОКРАШЕННОЙ ПО МЕТОДУ ЦИЛЯ-НИЛЬСЕНА
Authors: Narkevich Artem Nikolaevich , Vinogradov Konstantin Anatolevich
Published: July 2018

Цель. Изучение морфометрических и цветовых характеристик кислотоустойчивых микобактерий как объектов на цифровых изображениях мокроты, окрашенной по методу Циля-Нильсена.Материалы и методы. Использовались данные о 6 708 кислотоустойчивых микобактериях, выделенных на цифровых изображениях микроскопических препаратов мокроты, окрашенной по методу Циля-Нильсена. Анализ объектов производился по 97 цветовым и морфометрическим признакам.Результаты. Наименее важными параметрами кислотоустойчивых микобактерий, как объектов на цифровых изображениях, для параметризации являются: минимальное значение R, максимальное значение G, минимальное значение B, максимальное значение S и максимальное значение V, а наиболее информативными параметрами с точки зрения параметризации объектов являются: максимальное значение B, среднее значение V, минимальное значение H, минимальное значение V и максимальное значение Y и среднее значение H. В работе также представлены методики определения морфометрических характеристик кислотоустойчивых микобактерий при изменении разрешения цифровых изображений, на которых осуществляется поиск таких объектов, и изменении увеличения, при котором осуществляется микроскопия окрашенных образцов мокроты.Заключение. Учет полученных в результате исследования морфометрических и цветовых характеристик позволит осуществлять разработку алгоритмов сегментации цифровых микроскопических изображений мокроты, окрашенной по методу Циля-Нильсена, а также математических моделей распознавания объектов на данных изображениях.
АНАЛИЗ ДИНАМИКИ КЛИМАТИЧЕСКИХ ДАННЫХ НА ТЕРРИТОРИИ НП «БУЗУЛУКСКИЙ БОР»
Authors: Kozhakin Petr Alekseevich , Haziahmetov Rashit Muhametovich
Published: July 2018

Сегодня большое внимание уделяется изменению климатических условий в целом на планете и отдельных ее регионах, изучению динамики основных их компонентов в различных экосистемах и их влияние. Особо важно проследить данные изменения в аридных экосистемах и на границах распространения видов, изменение эдификаторов и ареалов (вредителей, болезней). Необходимо выявить экологические риски для особо охраняемых природных территорий, которым и является национальный парк.В статье приведена природно-климатическая характеристика федерального государственного учреждения «Национальный парк «Бузулукский бор»», который является уникальной экосистемой в степной зоне Южного Урала и южной границей распространения Сосны обыкновенной (Pinus sylvestris). Проведен анализ данных метеостанции «Боровая ЛОС» за последние сто лет среднегодовых показателей температуры, осадков и относительной влажности воздуха. В результате исследования отчетливо прослеживается тренд повышения температуры, осадков на территории бора. Колебания влажности за последние сто лет незначительные и наблюдается небольшая обратная корреляция между температурой и численностью осадков.
Evaluation of Internal Control and Risk Management Systems in the Audit of Groups of Companies
Authors: Резвых И. , Rezvyh I.
Published: July 2018

Th is article is devoted to the specifics of the auditor’s understanding of the activities of the group of companies and the assessment of the effectiveness of the internal control and risk management systems of the group. The article outlines the key stages of the audit, the audit procedures that are carried out when studying the activities of the group of companies and when evaluating internal control and risk management systems, suggests the forms of the auditor’s working documents to reflect the results of the evaluation.
Comparative Characteristics of Accounting of Labour Remuneration According to Russian and International Standards
Authors: Корчагина Л. , Korchagina L.
Published: July 2018

The article discusses the possibilities and problems of using the principles of International financial reporting standards in the practice of Russian organizations in the accounting of liabilities.
Modern Problems of Evaluating and Improving the Effectiveness of Professional Staff Development of the Organization
Authors: Свистунов Василий , Svistunov Vasiliy , Каштанова Екатерина , Kashtanova YEkatyerina
Published: July 2018

The article considers the existing shortcomings and problems in the process of evaluating and improving the eff ectiveness of professional staff development. The article gives the results of the authors analysis of accumulated domestic and foreign experience of increase of effi ciency of professional development of specialists and managers at all levels of management with the use of a wide palette of concepts and evaluation methods. The main issues aff ecting the quality of implementation of the process of enhancing professional development of personnel in modern organizations are formulated and analyzed. The key activities are identifi ed, the successful implementation of which helps to minimize operational risks from ineff ective implementation of processes evaluation of effectiveness and professional development of personnel in the organization.
Direct Support Professionals and Quality of Life of People With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Authors: Friedman Carli
Published: July 2018

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are the “backbone” of long term services and supports (LTSS) in the United States (Bogenschutz, Hewitt, Nord, & Hepperlen, 2014, p. 317). This study examined the relationship between DSPs and people with intellectual and developmental disabilities' (IDD) quality of life. To do so, we utilized Personal Outcome Measures® interviews from over 1,300 people with IDD to examine the impact DSP change has at individual and organizational levels. We found DSP continuity is central to quality of life of people, including human security, community, relationships, choice, and goals. States cannot continue to provide near-poverty level reimbursement rates for DSPs and still ensure quality of life.
Transition to Adulthood as a Joint Parent-Youth Project for Young Persons With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Authors: Marshall Sheila K. , Stainton Tim , Wall Jessie M. , Zhu Ma , Murray John , Wu Siwei , El Bouhali Asmae , Parada Filomena , Zaidman-Zait Anat , Young Richard A.
Published: July 2018

Eight dyads (N = 16) residing in Western Canada participated in this investigation of how young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their parents jointly construct, articulate, and act on goals pertinent to the young adults' transition to adulthood. Using the action-project method to collect and analyze conversations and video recall data, cases were grouped representing the ways goal-directed projects brought relationship (n = 4), planning (n = 3) or both (n = 1) to the foreground as joint projects. Resources internal to the dyad such as emotional resources, and external to the dyad, facilitated formulation and pursuit of projects. Lack of external supports and limited parental knowledge about IDD hindered joint project formulation.
The Responsibility to Build Contexts That Enhance Human Functioning and Promote Valued Outcomes for People With Intellectual Disability: Strengthening System Responsiveness
Authors: Shogren Karrie A. , Luckasson Ruth , Schalock Robert L.
Published: July 2018

This article describes a model that systems can use to build contexts that enhance human functioning and promote valued outcomes for individuals with intellectual disability (ID). Our premise is that that systems have a responsibility to build contexts that enhance human functioning and promote valued outcomes for people with ID, and that this obligation can be met through the use of contextual analysis to deliberately design and implement support strategies that are responsive to identified contextual factors. The model employs a 2-step process to identify context-based independent and intervening variables and align support strategies with identified context-based influencing factors, disability policy goals, and associated outcome domains. We propose a number of indicators that can be used to assess the quality of a system's responsiveness based on their implementation of the model. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
ANALYSIS OF THE TIME COURSE OF A BRIDGE ABUTMENTS SETTLEMENT
Authors: Hruštinec Luboš
Published: July 2018

The paper deals with the time course of the bridge abutments settlement (consolidation of the subsoil) on the motorway D4 in Stupava, Slovakia. The bridge abutments are founded on an earth embankment 5.5 meters in height and a group of piles. Over 6 years of geotechnical monitoring after the construction of bridge abutments, there were measured settlements from 102 to 106 mm. The measured settlement of intermediate bridge piers was only up to 16 mm. Geotechnical calculations and analysis are focused on the comparison of the final settlements prognosis and its time course with the real measured values.
THE LOAD-DISPLACEMENT BEHAVIOUR OF GROUND ANCHORS IN FINE GRAINED SOILS
Authors: Chalmovský Juraj , Míča Lumír
Published: July 2018

Ground anchors represent an important structural element in the area of geotechnical engineering. Despite their extensive usage, a design process of these elements is usually performed using simple empirical and semi-empirical methods, neglecting several important influencing factors. This paper gives an analysis of the factor of non-uniform distribution of skin friction resulting in a progressive failure of ground anchors. First, the finite element method in combination with a material model involving regularized strain softening is utilized. Next, an experimental program, including several investigation anchor load tests, was carried out. The goal of this program was to confirm preliminary conclusions drawn from numerical studies and to obtain relevant data for further back analysis. After, there is then described a newly developed application based on the load transfer method, in which all the findings from numerical computations and experimental measurements are incorporated.
THE INTERACTION OF FLOODS WITH TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE
Authors: Vaníček Ivan , Vaníček Jiří
Published: July 2018

Current demands on transport infrastructure are very often associated with the terms of “sustainability, availability and affordability”. The first term directly refers to the basic principles of sustainable construction in transport infrastructure, primarily motorway and railways, and how they are related to a very significant consumption of land, energy and natural aggregates. This paper is focused on the other two terms, availability and affordability. These principles are intended to guarantee proper functioning of communication even in nonstandard situations such as natural hazards, most typically floods. To avoid a total collapse of transport infrastructure, the term robustness is often applied, recognizing that this term is not a substitute for another outcome – namely a more expensive structure. The paper shows the possibilities for elimination of the negative impact of floods on transport infrastructure as they relate to different types of interaction and different types of floods.
Cisnes, elefantes, medusas y rinocerontes. Las relaciones internacionales y sus animales
Authors: Carlos Izquierdo Javier de
Published: July 2018

El siglo XXI ha traído un proceso de cambio acelerado y sostenido en el tiempo, que plantea novedades y grandes incógnitas en el escenario mundial. Las relaciones internacionales ahora son más inestables y están sacudidas por crisis que con frecuencia son imprevistas. En este contexto la identificación precoz de los riesgos y la construcción de sociedades más resilientes ocupa ahora un lugar central. Por este motivo han surgido algunas herramientas que nos ayudan a reflexionar sobre las relaciones internacionales y sus acontecimientos más severos. En este documento presentamos algunos animales imaginarios que están siendo utilizados como metáforas por economistas, científicos o analistas políticos para analizar sucesos que podrían sobrevenir.
La diplomacia coercitiva como estrategia frente a Corea del Norte
Authors: Abad Quintanal Gracia
Published: July 2018

Un repaso a la literatura, cada vez más amplia, sobre el conflicto con Corea del Norte nos lleva fácilmente a la conclusión de que frente a dicho Estado se han utilizado todas las estrategias posibles, pero ninguna ha resultado efectiva para lograr la solución del conflicto. Pues bien, en las páginas que siguen se tratará de mostrar cuáles han sido las estrategias utilizadas y, en la medida de lo posible, por qué han fracasado para, seguidamente plantear qué hay de novedoso en la que se está desarrollando actualmente. Por último se analizarán cuáles pueden ser las cuestiones clave para el éxito de la aproximación actual y se valorará hasta qué punto es posible que resulte finalmente fructífera.
Estereotipos científicos. Percepción del alumnado de un Centro de Adultos de Granada (España)
Authors: Serna Rosell Cayetana , Vílchez González José Miguel
Published: July 2018

Numerosas investigaciones han mostrado que la percepción social de la ciencia está impregnada de visiones ingenuas y estereotipos transmitidos por la sociedad. Aunque ya existen numerosos trabajos sobre este campo, la mayoría de estudios que respaldan la existencia de estereotipos científicos se han hecho en niños y adolescentes y en su mayoría han sido llevados a cabo en otros países. Este trabajo pretende reflejar cuál es la imagen de científico en un grupo de personas adultas residentes en Granada, España, a través del análisis de 88 dibujos utilizando la estrategia “Draw a scientist test”. Como novedad, se incluye un estudio piloto con el objetivo de comprobar si es posible cambiar este estereotipo científico mediante uso de fotografías. Los resultados evidencian una imagen estereotipada de comunidad científica que se muestra de forma similar en personas de diferentes edades, sexo, procedencia o nivel intelectual. Además, esta imagen es resistente al cambio.
Kajian Keberadaan Ojek Sebagai Angkutan Umum Paratransit di Kota Semarang (Studi Kasus: Koridor Jalan Kesatrian, Jalan Ngesrep Timur V dan Jalan Karangrejo Raya)
Authors: Pratiwi Ratna , Haryanto Ragil
Published: July 2018

The existence of “Ojeks” along Kesatrian Jatingaleh, Ngesrep Timur V Sumurboto and Karangrejo Raya Srondol Wetan are driven by the lack of public transport services in meeting the needs of people movement around those corridors. Due to public’s high interest on using “Ojeks”, then the existence of “Ojeks” become increasing and wide spreading characterized by the presence of “Ojeks” associations which locations are often considered unsuited and even interfere the traffic. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the presence of “Ojeks” as public transport which are currently growing so as not to cause traffic chaos and to achieve better transportation development in the future. This study employed a mix of quantitative and qualitative methodology. “Ojeks” operators respondents are determined by census method, while for purposive and incidental sampling technique are used to determine the sample of “Ojeks” association chairman and key persons which are government/academia and “Ojeks” users. Descriptive analysis was used as the analysis technique, which then verified for its validity by triangulation approach. The analysis showed that the presence of “Ojeks” will always be needed as the gap filler against the public transport services. “Ojeks” become main livelihood so as to meet the economic needs on the one hand. On the other or social needs, establishment of “Ojeks” associations serve to accommodate the aspirations and information among “Ojeks”members.
Pengaruh Eksistensi Bandara International Lombok Terhadap Perkembangan Permukiman di PKW Perkotaan Praya
Authors: Haryono Yuswan
Published: July 2018

Inequality development causes delays for Praya development. MP3EI, changed conditions of Urban Praya through the construction of Lombok International Airport (BIL) that is represented as Regional Activity Center. The development began to grow including the settlements sector. The purpose of this study is to assess the effect of the presence of BIL on the development of settlements in Praya urban with quantitative descriptive method; through the identification residential development from the aspects existence of BIL, pattern and shape of its range, physical and non-physical variables that affect and changes pattern and Structures space. The results showed, the development of urban settlements do not occurs due to the direct presence of BIL but influenced by the roads and utility networks. Praya urban image map in 2006 and 2012 showing the development of settlement that is shaped "Radial Continuous" and other territories form Praya urban scattered "Linear" following the road and utility grid, whereas the other territories near BIL does not show a significant development. According to the Patterns of change and Structure Space, the land price changes. The suburban area of Praya that is experiencing the development of road, the land prices have increased despite relatively less productive land.
Fenomena Lalu Lintas Simpang Bersinyal di Kota Bekasi (Studi Kasus: Simpang Tol Bekasi Timur)
Authors: Tama Yuanda Patria
Published: July 2018

The transportation’s problem that common in Indonesia is a limitation of road space and intersection that needed to conduct the traffic flow. An accident and degradation of intersection’s performance, it’s caused by the driver’s attitude which have a less concern to the traffic law. This research attempt to observe the driver violation which influences the characteristic of urban’s intersection to find out the phenomenon of traffic’s signal intersection. The strategy to design the intersection in East Bekasi highway for reducing driver violation by using the side friction factor that consists of extending the radius of junction sleeves, constructing lay bay in bus stop, demolition the street vendor, ojek base and public transportation. Also, the geometric intersection factor consists of installation signs, marka reparation, constructing the pedestrian facility, and specific stopping area for motorcycle, then the traffic’s characteristic factor consists of an intensive supervising by policeman, constructing the priority track to turn left on red and installation signs.