bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radiogenomic analysis of vascular endothelial growth factor in patients with diffuse gliomas
Authors: Sun Zhiyan , Li Yiming , Wang Yinyan , Fan Xing , Xu Kaibin , Wang Kai , Li Shaowu , Zhang Zhong , Jiang Tao , Liu Xing
Published: October 2019

Objective

To predict vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression in patients with diffuse gliomas using radiomic analysis.

Materials and methods

Preoperative magnetic resonance images were retrospectively obtained from 239 patients with diffuse gliomas (World Health Organization grades II–IV). The patients were randomly assigned to a training group (n = 160) or a validation group (n = 79) at a 2:1 ratio. For each patient, a total of 431 radiomic features were extracted. The minimum redundancy maximum relevance (mRMR) algorithm was used for feature selection. A machine-learning model for predicting VEGF status was then developed using the selected features and a support vector machine classifier. The predictive performance of the model was evaluated in both groups using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, and correlations between selected features were assessed.

Results

Nine radiomic features were selected to generate a VEGF-associated radiomic signature of diffuse gliomas based on the mRMR algorithm. This radiomic signature consisted of two first-order statistics or related wavelet features (Entropy and Minimum) and seven textural features or related wavelet features (including Cluster Tendency and Long Run Low Gray Level Emphasis). The predictive efficiencies measured by the area under the curve were 74.1% in the training group and 70.2% in the validation group. The overall correlations between the 9 radiomic features were low in both groups.

Conclusions

Radiomic analysis facilitated efficient prediction of VEGF status in diffuse gliomas, suggesting that using tumor-derived radiomic features for predicting genomic information is feasible.
Determinants of modern contraceptive use among postpartum women in two health facilities in urban Ghana: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Coomson Jonathan Ian , Manu Abubakar
Published: October 2019

Background

Postpartum contraception is important for spacing and limiting childbirth. Although the use of modern contraception has been shown to reduce maternal and child morbidities and mortalities, postpartum women have one of the highest unmet needs for family planning. Inter-birth intervals less than 24 months have adverse effects on both the mother and the child, yet very limited empirical evidence exist on contraceptive use among postpartum women in Ghana. This study sought to determine the prevalence and determinants of modern contraceptive use among postpartum women in the Tema Metropolis, Ghana.

Methods

A facility-based cross-sectional survey was conducted among 320 postpartum women with babies aged between three and 15 months. Participants were recruited from child welfare clinics in two government health facilities in the Tema metropolitan area using a simple random sampling technique. Data were analyzed using STATA version 15. Chi-square and multiple logistic regressions techniques were used to examine associations between postpartum contraceptive use and key independent variables. Statistical significance was set at p = 0.05. Adjusted odds ratios and their 95% confidence intervals were used to assess the strength of association.

Results

The prevalence rate of modern contraceptive use among postpartum women was 26.3%. Postpartum contraceptive use was significantly associated with past contraceptive use [AOR = 7.7 (95%CI: 3.4–17.5)]; return of menses [AOR = 4.3 (95%CI: 1.7–11.3)]; resumption of sexual activity [AOR = 4.7 (95%CI: 1.4–15.4)]; discussion of family planning with male partner [AOR = 3.1 (95%CI: 1.03–9.2)]; male partners’ approval of modern contraception [AOR = 18.1 (95%CI: 6.3–51.6)]; family planning counselling received during antenatal care [AOR = 3.5 (95%CI: 1.3–9.9)] and knowledge of at least one modern methods of contraception available at the health facility [AOR = 4.7 (95%CI: 1.9–11.5)].

Conclusions

Postpartum contraceptive uptake is low among women in the Tema area. Factors that influence modern contraceptive uptake among postpartum women include past modern contraceptive use, resumption of sexual activity and menstruation, male partner involvement in contraception, family planning counselling during antenatal care and knowledge of the modern methods of contraception available at the health facility. Strengthening family planning education and counselling during antenatal care and using a multi-prong strategy to engage men as partners in family planning will improve postpartum contraceptive uptake.
Testing the relationship between financial sector output, employment and economic growth in North Cyprus
Authors: Cavusoglu Behiye , Ibrahim Saifullahi Sani , Ozdeser Huseyin
Published: October 2019

Sound and efficient functioning of financial systems is critical to the economic prosperity of any economy. This paper investigates the tripartite relationship between financial sector output, employment and economic growth in North Cyprus. Using relevant time series data analysis (within the framework of structural breaks and VECM), we found that financial sector output in North Cyprus is sensitive to both internal and external shocks in that its economy is well linked with the global economy, in spite of the political isolation sustained since the bifurcation of Cyprus into North and South. The study further documents evidence of the neutrality hypothesis in the finance-growth nexus. The underlying variables were weakly connected in the short-run. However, economic growth responded to the short-run shocks and handled the equilibrating process of reverting to the long-run trend and thus, the demand following hypothesis is confirmed in the long-run.
A review of accelerometer-derived physical activity in the idiopathic inflammatory myopathies
Authors: Oldroyd Alexander , Little Max A. , Dixon William , Chinoy Hector
Published: October 2019

Background

The idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs) are a group of rare conditions characterised by muscle inflammation (myositis). Accurate disease activity assessment is vital in both clinical and research settings, however, current available methods lack ability to quantify associated variation of physical activity, an important consequence of myositis.

This study aims to review studies that have collected accelerometer-derived physical activity data in IIM populations, and to investigate if these studies identified associations between physical and myositis disease activity.

Methods

A narrative review was conducted to identify original articles that have collected accelerometer-derived physical activity data in IIM populations. The following databases were searched from February 2000 until February 2019: Medline via PubMed, Embase via OVID and Scopus.

Results

Of the 297 publications screened, eight studies describing accelerometer use in 181 IIM cases were identified. Seven out of the eight studies investigated juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) populations and only one reported on an adult-onset population. Population sizes, disease duration, accelerometer devices used, body placement sites, and study duration varied between each study.

Accelerometer-derived physical activity levels were reduced in IIM cohorts, compared to healthy controls, and studies reported improvement of physical activity levels following exercise programme interventions, thus demonstrating efficacy.

Higher levels of accelerometer-derived physical activity measurements were associated with shorter JDM disease duration, current glucocorticoid use and lower serum creatine kinase. However, no clear association between muscle strength and accelerometer-derived physical activity measures was identified.

Conclusions

The use of accelerometer-derived physical activity in IIM research is in its infancy. Whilst knowledge is currently limited to small studies, the opportunities are promising and future research in this area has the potential to improve disease activity assessment for clinical and research applications.
Insight and psychosis: the next 30 years
Authors: David Anthony S.
Published: October 2019

Academic interest in the concept of insight in psychosis has increased markedly over the past 30 years, prompting this selective appraisal of the current state of the art. Considerable progress has been made in terms of measurement and confirming a number of clinical associations. More recently, the relationship between insight and involuntary treatment has been scrutinised more closely alongside the link between decision-making capacity and insight. Advances in the clinical and cognitive neurosciences have influenced conceptual development, particularly the field of ‘metacognition’. New therapies, including those that are psychologically and neurophysiologically based, are being tested as ways to enhance insight.
Treatment With 90Y/177Lu-DOTATOC in Patients With Metastatic Adrenocortical Carcinoma Expressing Somatostatin Receptors
Authors: Grisanti Salvatore , Filice Angelina , Basile Vittoria , Cosentini Deborah , Rapa Ida , Albano Domenico , Morandi Alessandra , Laganà Marta , Dalla Volta Alberto , Bertagna Francesco , Tiberio Guido M A , Volante Marco , Terzolo Massimo , Versari Annibale , Berruti Alfredo
Published: October 2019

Context

We investigated the role of Gallium 68 dodecanetetraacetic acid Tyr3-octreotide (68Ga-DOTATOC) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) in detecting somatostatin receptors (SSTRs) in 19 patients with metastatic adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) and explored the activity of yttrium-90/lutetium-177 (90Y/177Lu-DOTATOC) peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT).

Case description and methods

68Ga uptake in metastatic sites was scored in terms of intensity and anatomical uptake distribution of standard uptake value (SUV). Tissue expression of SSTR2A and SSTR5 was also evaluated by immunohistochemistry (IHC) on primary tumors. Eight (42%) patients displayed radiometabolic uptake of any-grade intensity with focal and limited distribution. Two (11%) patients displayed strong uptake in multiple lesions and were treated with PRRT. Both obtained an overall disease control lasting 4 and 12 months, respectively.

Conclusions

ACC can express SSTRs as detected by IHC and 68Ga-DOTATOC PET. SSTRs-based PRRT may represent a potential treatment opportunity for a minority of patients with advanced ACC. This treatment modality deserves further investigation.
Repurposing the aldose reductase inhibitor and diabetic neuropathy drug epalrestat for the congenital disorder of glycosylation PMM2-CDG
Authors: Iyer Sangeetha , Sam Feba S. , DiPrimio Nina , Preston Graeme , Verheijen Jan , Murthy Kausalya , Parton Zachary , Tsang Hillary , Lao Jessica , Morava Eva , Perlstein Ethan O.
Published: October 2019

Phosphomannomutase 2 deficiency, or PMM2-CDG, is the most common congenital disorder of glycosylation affecting over 1,000 patients globally. There are no approved drugs that treat the symptoms or root cause of PMM2-CDG. In order to identify clinically actionable compounds that boost human PMM2 enzyme function, we performed a multi-species drug repurposing screen using a first-ever worm model of PMM2-CDG followed by PMM2 enzyme functional studies in PMM2-CDG patient fibroblasts. Drug repurposing candidates from this study, and drug repurposing candidates from a previously published study using yeast models of PMM2-CDG, were tested for their effect on human PMM2 enzyme activity in PMM2-CDG fibroblasts. Of the 20 repurposing candidates discovered in the worm-based phenotypic screen, 12 are plant-based polyphenols. Insights from structure-activity relationships revealed epalrestat, the only antidiabetic aldose reductase inhibitor approved for use in humans, as a first-in-class PMM2 enzyme activator. Epalrestat increased PMM2 enzymatic activity in four PMM2-CDG patient fibroblast lines with genotypes R141H/F119L, R141H/E139K, R141H/N216I and R141H/F183S. PMM2 enzyme activity gains range from 30% to 400% over baseline depending on genotype. Pharmacological inhibition of aldose reductase by epalrestat may shunt glucose from the polyol pathway to glucose-1,6-bisphosphate, which is an endogenous stabilizer and coactivator of PMM2 homodimerization. Epalrestat is a safe, oral and brain penetrant drug that was approved 27 years ago in Japan to treat diabetic neuropathy in geriatric populations. We demonstrate that epalrestat is the first small molecule activator of PMM2 enzyme activity with the potential to treat peripheral neuropathy and correct the underlying enzyme deficiency in a majority of pediatric and adult PMM2-CDG patients.
Root mass may affect soil water infiltration more strongly than the incorporated residue
Authors: Oda Masato , Rasyid Burhanuddin , Omae Hide
Published: October 2019

This Brief Report includes a single-finding that is reported with descriptions of an unexpected observation. Crop residue incorporation increases stable soil pores and soil water infiltration, consequently, reduces surface water runoff and soil erosion. However, to our knowledge, quantitative study for the relation between incorporated residue and infiltration rate has not been conducted. In this study, we examined the relationship between the quantity of crop residue of the prior crop and the water infiltration rate. We grew corn, rose grass, and okra in crop rotation under greenhouses and measured the water infiltration rate at the time of ridge making. A strong correlation was found between the quantity of applied residue and the soil water infiltration rate ( r = 0.953), although there were outliers in the case of no prior crop. By contrast, aboveground biomass of the prior crop showed a stronger correlation with water infiltration rate (r = 0.965), without outliers. Previous studies have revealed the logistical relation between plant root mass and soil erosion. Our data also show a positive relationship between resistance to erosion and root mass when assuming that aboveground biomass is proportional to the underground biomass. The result also showed that the effect of the prior crop root mass disappears within the next crop period. This suggests that maintaining a large root mass is crucial for reducing soil erosion.
Preliminary assessment of the utilization of durian peel liquid smoke as a natural preservative for mackerel
Authors: Faisal Muhammad , Gani Asri , Mulana Farid
Published: October 2019

Background: Durian peel is a type of biomass waste that contains cellulose, hemicelluloses, and lignin. The pyrolysis of these compounds results in production of liquid smoke which can be used as a natural preservative to replace current synthetic preservatives. This research assessed the ability of liquid smoke produced during pyrolysis of durian peel to preserve fish.

Methods: Dry durian peel waste underwent batch reactor pyrolysis at 340°C and 380°C, resulting in production of liquid smoke (grade 3), charcoal, and tar. This liquid smoke was then distilled at 190°C to produce grade 1 liquid smoke, which was used to preserve mackerel. The preservation process was conducted by soaking the mackerel samples in liquid smoke at 0.5, 1, 2, and 3% concentration levels followed by observations every 6 hours. Tests to determine the total volatile base nitrogen (TVB-N) content, antibacterial quality of the liquid smoke and organoleptic quality of the fish were conducted in order to assess the preservation properties of the liquid smoke.

Results: Tests on the antibacterial effects showed that the liquid smoke inhibited the growth of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus on fish even at low concentrations. At 54 hours, the TVB-N values remained below 30 mg nitrogen/g, indicating that the fish was still safe for human consumption. Results from the organoleptic tests showed that the concentration of liquid smoke influenced the preservation effects.

Conclusions: At a concentration of 2–3%, the fish samples possessed acceptable flavor, taste, color and texture for up to 48 hours of soaking. However, the best conditions were obtained with a 3% concentration of liquid smoke (produced with 340°C pyrolysis), as the fish was still considered acceptable for up to 42 hours.
MetaDEGalaxy: Galaxy workflow for differential abundance analysis of 16s metagenomic data
Authors: Thang Mike W.C. , Chua Xin-Yi , Price Gareth , Gorse Dominique , Field Matt A.
Published: October 2019

Metagenomic sequencing is an increasingly common tool in environmental and biomedical sciences.  While software for detailing the composition of microbial communities using 16S rRNA marker genes is relatively mature, increasingly researchers are interested in identifying changes exhibited within microbial communities under differing environmental conditions. In order to gain maximum value from metagenomic sequence data we must improve the existing analysis environment by providing accessible and scalable computational workflows able to generate reproducible results.

Here we describe a complete end-to-end open-source metagenomics workflow running within Galaxy for 16S differential abundance analysis. The workflow accepts 454 or Illumina sequence data (either overlapping or non-overlapping paired end reads) and outputs lists of the operational taxonomic unit (OTUs) exhibiting the greatest change under differing conditions. A range of analysis steps and graphing options are available giving users a high-level of control over their data and analyses. Additionally, users are able to input complex sample-specific metadata information which can be incorporated into differential analysis and used for grouping / colouring within graphs.  Detailed tutorials containing sample data and existing workflows are available for three different input types: overlapping and non-overlapping read pairs as well as for pre-generated Biological Observation Matrix (BIOM) files.

Using the Galaxy platform we developed MetaDEGalaxy, a complete metagenomics differential abundance analysis workflow. MetaDEGalaxy is designed for bench scientists working with 16S data who are interested in comparative metagenomics. 

MetaDEGalaxy builds on momentum within the wider Galaxy metagenomics community with the hope that more tools will be added as existing methods mature.
Health professional-delivered obesity prevention interventions during the first 1,000 days: A systematic review of external validity reporting
Authors: Hennessy Marita , Heary Caroline , Laws Rachel , Van Rhoon Luke , Toomey Elaine , Wolstenholme Hazel , Byrne Molly
Published: October 2019

Background: Childhood obesity prevention interventions delivered by health professionals during the first 1,000 days of life show some evidence of effectiveness, particularly in relation to behavioural outcomes. External validity refers to how generalisable interventions are to populations or settings beyond those in the original study. The degree to which external validity elements are reported in such studies is unclear however. This systematic review aimed to determine the extent to which childhood obesity interventions delivered by health professionals during the first 1,000 days report on elements that can be used to inform generalizability across settings and populations.

Methods: Eligible studies meeting study inclusion and exclusion criteria were identified through a systematic review of 11 databases and three trial registers. An assessment tool based on the RE-AIM (Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, Maintenance) framework was used to assess the external validity of included studies. It comprised five dimensions: reach and representativeness of individuals, reach and representativeness of settings, implementation and adaptation, outcomes for decision making maintenance and/or institutionalisation. Two authors independently assessed the external validity reporting of 20% of included studies; discrepancies were resolved, and then one completed assessments of the remaining studies.

Results: In total, 39 trials involving 46 interventions published between 1999 and 2019 were identified. The majority of studies were randomized controlled trials (n=24). Reporting varied within and between dimensions. External validity elements that were poorly described included: representativeness of individuals and settings, treatment receipt, intervention mechanisms and moderators, cost effectiveness, and intervention sustainability and acceptability.

Conclusions: Our review suggests that more emphasis is needed on research designs that consider generalisability, and the reporting of external validity elements in early life childhood obesity prevention interventions. Important gaps in external validity reporting were identified that could facilitate decisions around the translation and scale-up of interventions from research to practice.
Things We Do for No Reason™: Lumbar Punctures in Low‐Risk Febrile Infants with Bronchiolitis
Authors: Berk Justin , Biondi Eric , Tamma Pranita D , Herzke Carrie
Published: October 2019

Inspired by the ABIM Foundation's Choosing Wisely® campaign, the “Things We Do for No Reason™” (TWDFNR) series reviews practices that have become common parts of hospital care but may provide little value to our patients. Practices reviewed in the TWDFNR series do not represent “black and white” conclusions or clinical practice standards but are meant as a starting place for research and active discussions among hospitalists and patients. We invite you to be part of that discussion.
Collaborative Human–UAV Search and Rescue for Missing Tourists in Nature Reserves
Authors: Zheng Yu-Jun , Du Yi-Chen , Sheng Wei-Guo , Ling Hai-Feng
Published: October 2019

The authors present a highly complex search-planning problem in which unmanned aerial vehicles and humans collaborate to minimize the expected time at which human rescuers reach a target who is missing. They propose an evolutionary algorithm that uses biogeography-inspired operators to find an optimal or near-optimal solution within an acceptable time.
PARÂMETROS QUALITATIVOS DE MORANGUEIROS DE DIAS NEUTROS PRODUZIDOS EM CULTIVO SEM SOLO
Authors: Costa Savana Irribarem , Ferreira Letícia Vanni , Benati Jorge Atílio , Cantillano Rufino Fernando Flores , Antunes Luis Eduardo Correa
Published: October 2019

O cultivo do morangueiro sem solo apresenta inúmeras vantagens, como facilidade de manejo, redução de doenças radiculares, redução dos custos da lavoura, fornecimento adequado de água e nutrientes, entre outros. Entretanto, há poucas informações sobre pós-colheita de morangos produzidos fora do solo. Assim, o objetivo do presente trabalho foi comparar a qualidade de frutas de diferentes cultivares de dias neutros de morangueiro, em cultivo sem solo recirculante. O experimento foi realizado na Embrapa Clima Temperado, em Pelotas, RS, entre 2015 e 2016. Avaliou-se teor de sólidos solúveis, acidez titulável, relação sólidos solúveis acidez titulável, potencial hidrogeniônico, firmeza da polpa, tamanho das frutas e coloração. Estudou-se quatro cultivares de morangueiro de dias de neutros: Albion, Aromas, Monterey e San Andreas. A qualidade das frutas foi influenciada pelo fator cultivar, bem como pelo clima. Em sistema de cultivo sem solo recirculante, a qualidade dos morangos varia de acordo com a cultivar utilizada.
Deutschland: ein Land der Mieter? Die Rolle von Erwartungen über zukünftige Immobilienpreisentwicklungen
Authors: Gohl Niklas , Haan Peter , Michelsen Claus , Weinhardt Felix
Published: October 2019

Mehr als die Hälfte aller Haushalte in Deutschland wohnen zur Miete – ein im internationalen Vergleich sehr hoher Wert. Bisherige Studien haben vor allen Dingen den regulatorischen Rahmen des Immobilienmarkts hervorgehoben, der Mietwohnungen in Deutschland systematisch begünstigt. Allerdings gibt es keine Studien, die diese Erklärungen empirisch eindeutig untermauern können: einige Arbeiten betonen die Bedeutung von fundamentalen Marktdaten wie die Einkommensentwicklung, demographische Faktoren oder den Zuzug in eine Region. Diese Studie greift einen Aspekt auf, der bislang nicht in der Literatur diskutiert wurde. Untersucht wird, ob und zu welchem Anteil die geringe Eigentümerquote in Deutschland durch pessimistische Erwartungen bezüglich zukünftiger Immobilienpreisentwicklungen erklärt werden kann – erwarten Mieter keine oder nur geringe Preissteigerungen, so sinkt die Attraktivität einer Investition in die eigenen vier Wände. Für die empirische Analyse werden Daten aus einer neuen, repräsentativen Befragung, erhoben im Rahmen des SOEP-IS, ausgewertet. Befragte ausländischer Herkunft sind optimistischer hinsichtlich der Immobilienpreisentwicklung. Sie erwarten langfristig einen signifikant höheren Preisanstieg. Dies legt nahe, dass die erheblich pessimistischeren Preiserwartungen der einheimischen Bevölkerung auch dazu führen, dass sie sich seltener als die Bevölkerung in anderen Ländern für selbstgenutztes Wohneigentum entscheiden.
The scenographic, costumed chorus, agency and the performance of matter: A new materialist approach to costume
Authors: Barbieri Donatella , Crawley Greer
Published: October 2019

This article presents the performativity of costume as generated through materially discursive iterative processes that embed meaning in the production itself through the analysis of the chorus costumes for the 2018 Opéra du Rhin production of Eugene Onegin. It argues that a new materialist approach can reveal the ethical concerns, around gender, toxic masculinity and compliance to reactionary social conventions, that lie at the core of this costuming of an opera chorus, particularly when perceived through the multiple forms that shape its distinct materializations over three successive acts. In addition, a focus on the agential actions of materials will draw attention to the work of the costume department, which to date has remained largely unaddressed by analytical approaches that are solely based on spectatorship, semiotics or phenomenological perspectives. Identifying the agential actions that materials perform enables the articulation of the costume specialist’s response to the performativity of materials. Adopting a new materialist approach, ‘costuming’ is found to be an evolving and relational form that emerges from a complex process of meaning-making that addresses, through a distribution of agency, how materials connect to wider concerns.
The impact of staff training and development on teachers’ productivity
Authors: Khan Sohail Imran , Abdullah Nabaz Nawzad
Published: October 2019

Training and Development has always been a driving force for enhancing the teachers’ productivity and performance. A training and development program provided by the employer is a sincere effort to provide opportunities to the employees to be acquainted with the variety of skills, information, attitude and conduct. With the ever-growing needs of modern education system, the education industry has to become more techno savvy, dynamic and updated. There is always requirement of skillful and talented manpower to take up this education industry to the heights of international standards. The primary objective of this research paper is to investigate the impact of staff training and development on their productivity and performance in classroom teaching and in their administrative work as well. It can also be viewed as on their overall productivity. The data collected was through structured questionnaire. 58 teachers were interviewed through the questionnaire. Statistical Software (SPSS Version 16) was used for analyzing the data. The study concludes that there exist positive and strong relations between training and development and productivity of the teachers of Kurdistan. The study further concluded stating positive correlation between productivity and other independent factors like Skills, Expertise, Morale, Enhancement, Potential, Job Knowledge and Proficiency. Technical/Technology training is the most suitable training program for the teachers of this region.
Development of wear-resistant coatings for automotive parts after processing in SHS conditions
Authors: Sereda Borys , Kruglyak Irina , Sereda Dmytro , Gaydaenko Alex , Kruglyak Dmytro
Published: October 2019

Methods of obtaining chromium-coated coatings are considered and technology for the formation of boron, silicon and titanium protected layers on steels under conditions of self-propagating high-temperature synthesis is presented. Using the methods of mathematical modeling, when obtaining wear-resistant coatings on machine parts in conditions of self-propagating high-temperature synthesis, optimal compositions of SHS mixtures have been developed. When tested in sliding friction conditions, the best abrasion resistance, among the coatings under consideration, are chromoaluminium-coated coatings. Their wear resistance is 4.8-5 times higher than in uncoated samples, chromoaluminosilicated and chromoalumotated in 2.1-3.5. The gas-transport method of coating with the help of SHS makes it possible to obtain steel 50 and U8A with increased physical and mechanical properties, without requiring high energy costs and time.
Continuing Medical Education Questions: October 2019
Authors: Sultan Shahnaz
Published: October 2019

Article Title: Primary Biliary Cholangitis and Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis
Agricultura sustentável
Authors: Vieira Márcia Gilmara Marian , Iza Oscar Benigno , Korz Camila , Fischer Jocimar
Published: October 2019

Esse artigo faz parte das atividades realizadas no projeto de extensão “Educação para Transformação: Meio Ambiente, Saúde e Gênero”, que tem como propósito fomentar sistemas sustentáveis de produção de alimentos e implementar práticas de produção orgânica que ajudem a manter a qualidade dos ecossistemas e a saúde da população no município de Itajaí, Santa Catarina. Com o intuito de promover a transição para uma agricultura sustentável, o objetivo que norteia este artigo é apresentar as diferentes estratégias adotadas, no ano 2018, pelos participantes para a dinamização e manutenção dos modos de produção orgânica com ênfase na agroecologia, nos espaços rurais e urbanos, para que as mulheres alcancem a autonomia e o empoderamento. A metodologia empregada é pautada em ações educativas de acordo com as propostas pedagógicas de educação, na perspectiva de Paulo Freire, inspirada no Círculo de Cultura. Segundo as mulheres, as atividades do projeto têm proporcionado uma transformação no modo de vida, autonomia financeira, valorização da agricultura familiar, segurança alimentar, saúde e consequentemente alcançando a felicidade e o bem-estar. Dessa forma, foi possível evidenciar a importância da participação das mulheres para o desenvolvimento e o fortalecimento da comunidade, favorecendo seu empoderamento e a ressignificação identitária.
Synthesis of Co3O4 Nano Aggregates by Co-precipitation Method and its Catalytic and Fuel Additive Applications
Authors: Janjua Muhammad Ramzan Saeed Ashraf
Published: October 2019

The nano aggregates of cobalt oxide (Co3O4) are synthesized successfully by adopting simple a co precipitation approach. The product obtained was further subjected to the calcination process that not only changed it morphology but also reduces the size of individual particles of aggregates. The prepared nano aggregates are subjected to different characterization techniques such as electron microscopies (scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy) and X-ray diffraction and results obtained by these instruments are analyzed by different software. The characterization results show that, although the arrangement of particles is compact, several intrinsic spaces and small holes/ pores can also be seen in any aggregate of the product. The as synthesized product is further tested for catalytic properties in thermal decomposition of ammonium perchlorate and proved to be an efficient catalyst.
Equilibrium isotope effects of tritiated water in and over lithium chloride solution
Authors: Kondakova Julia V. , Khoroshilova Christina D. , Sazonov Alexey B.
Published: October 2019

Distribution of tritium between vapor and lithium chloride aqueous solutions at 30–80 °C has been studied with the aid of vacuum distillation technique. “Positive” H/T VPIE (separation ratio increases with solute concentration) was observed. This ratio depends linearly on the salt molality and decreases with temperature. The results are in agreement with theoretical estimates of “free” water – hydrate shell H/T isotope equilibrium constants done with DFT force field calculations and harmonic oscillator quantum statistics. Found growth of the separation ratio may be practically important for developing extractive distillation process to remove tritium from technological solutions and liquid wastes of nuclear industry.
Distribución espacial del uso/cubierta del suelo y degradación forestal en la reserva de la biosfera Sierra Gorda de Guanajuato
Authors: Pérez Vega Azucena , Rocha Álvarez Fernando , Rocha Álvarez Fernando , Regil García Héctor Hugo , Regil García Héctor Hugo
Published: October 2019

La reserva de la biosfera de la Sierra Gorda de Guanajuato (RBSGG) constituye, por su riqueza biológica, el área natural más importante del estado. Mediante interpretación visual de ortofotos y procesamiento de imágenes SPOT 5, se determinó el cambio de uso y cubierta del suelo. Se calculó el grado de degradación forestal (DF) por medio de la correlación del grado de conservación del arbolado y la información de biomasa aérea obtenida de lospuntos del Inventario Nacional Forestal y de Suelos, así como determinación de los cambios surgidos durante 2004-2011 e información de erosión del suelo. Para el total de las cubiertas vegetales naturales se observó que el 45% presenta una DF de moderada a muy alta, el 16% presenta un nivel bajo de DF y el 13% no presenta ninguna DF. El área de estudio cuenta con la categoría más alta en el Sistema de Áreas Naturales Protegidas del país, por lo que los resultados sugieren un muy deficiente uso y manejo de los recursos naturales en su interior.
Evaluación de desechos de la industria quesera para la producción de 2-fenil etanol
Authors: Conde-Báez Laura , Castro-Rosas J. , Villagómez-Ibarra J. R. , Páez-Lerma J. B. , Gómez-Aldapa C.
Published: October 2019

La industria quesera genera dos tipos de lactosuero, principalmente, dulce y ácido. Pocos son los estudios que han utilizado estos dos tipos de lactosuero para la producción de 2-feniletanol (2-FE); así como el análisis resonancia magnética nuclear (RMN) para determinar el porcentaje de α-β lactosa en cada tipo de lactosuero. Debido a ello, en este trabajo se evaluó la producción de 2-FE por Kluyveromyces marxianus utilizando lactosuero dulce (LD) y lactosuero ácido (LA). Se realizó el ajuste de los dos tipos de lactosuero a pH 4.8 y se pasteurizaron a 63 ºC/30 min con un inóculo inicial de K. marxianus (1 UFC/mL × 106 UFC/mL). La identificación y cuantificación de 2-FE se realizó por cromatografía de gases (CG). K. marxianus logró producir 2-FE en los dos tipos de lactosuero (LD y LA) en concentraciones máximas de 0.44 g/L y 0.32 g/L, respectivamente. Para LD se determinó un 82.35% de β-lactosa.
Política ambiental: uso y manejo del estiércol en la Comarca Lagunera
Authors: Acevedo Peralta Antonio Ismael , Leos Rodríguez Juan Antonio , Figueroa Viramontes Uriel , Romo Lozano José Luis
Published: October 2019

Teniendo en cuenta el creciente desarrollo que ha adquirido la contaminación ambiental, es necesario analizar las actividades en la cadena del estiércol, desde la recolección hasta la aplicación. El uso de estiércol como fertilizante es una de las prácticas más antiguas utilizadas en la agricultura; sin embargo, la aplicación continua incrementa el riesgo de contaminación. La aproximación es principalmente empírica y combina trabajo de campo con el análisis del marco regulatorio en México. Se encontró que una práctica común en la Comarca Lagunera es la aplicación en dosis de hasta 150 ton/ha, sin un tratamiento previo. Respecto a la regulación, el manejo del estiércol es muy puntual. No se han generado estímulos para dimensionar y disminuir el impacto ambiental que se deriva de las actividades pecuarias. Adoptar medidas establecidas en otros países es una buena opción,  un tratamiento y manejo adecuado del estiércol que disminuyan los problemas ocasionados.
Adaptation and reproducibility of a questionnaire to evaluate physical activity among the Comcáac (Seri) community of Sonora, Mexico
Authors: Lavandera-Torres Marcos , Esparza-Romero Julián
Published: October 2019

Physical activity questionnaire (PAQ) is the most widely used method for evaluation of physical activity (PA). The aim of this study was to adapt and evaluate reproducibility of a PAQ in Comcáac community of Sonora, Mexico. Adaptation of PAQ was conducted through interviews with key residents. Reproducibility was evaluated applying PAQ twice to 26 persons within 20 or more years old, using Spearman coefficient ρ and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). High correlations (p < 0.05) were found in total previous-year and previous-week recreational activities (ρ= 0.82 and ρ= 0.76, respectively). Correlations were equally high for occupational activities group related to craftwork manufacture (ρ= 0.96 and ρ= 0.74) and fishery activities (ρ= 0.93 and ρ= 0.78) for previous-year and previous-week, respectively. Adapted PAQ could be a useful tool to evaluate PA pattern in community and can be used in future research on association between PA, obesity and diabetes.
Migración, deterioro ambiental y cambio climático: hacia un modelo bajo la perspectiva del análisis regional
Authors: Ortiz-Paniagua Carlos Francisco , Felipe Pérez Beatriz I.
Published: October 2019

El cambio climático contribuye a complicar el panorama de la degradación ecológica y ambiental a escala global y trae consigo un incremento de los riesgos para las poblaciones humanas en distintos ámbitos. La migración se contempla como una opción, a menudo la única, realista ante distintos escenarios climáticos y de pérdida de calidad ambiental. Este artículo tiene como propósito proponer un modelo mediante índices para la identificación de regiones con potencial expulsor y receptor de poblaciones humanas. No se presenta evidencia empírica, sino más bien un planteamiento susceptible de ser instrumentado para tales fines. En términos metodológicos, el presente se ubica en la tipología exploratoria, descriptiva y documental, conformando un trabajo propositivo en técnicas de análisis regional para su posterior aplicación.
Producción estatal y tasas de natalidad y mortalidad en México: un análisis de sus relaciones de largo plazo y dinámicas
Authors: Lorenzo Valdés Arturo , Ruíz Porras Antonio
Published: October 2019

Se emplea un panel de indicadores anuales de las 32 entidades federativas mexicanas, durante el período 1993-2010, para estudiar las relaciones de largo plazo y las dinámicas de la producción, la natalidad y la mortalidad en México. El estudio usa pruebas de cointegración y de causalidad en el sentido de Granger para paneles, estimaciones de Mínimos Cuadrados Ordinarios Dinámicos (DOLS, por sus siglas en inglés) y modelos para panelesdinámicos. Los principales hallazgos son: 1) los indicadores cointegran; 2) la  relación de largo plazo estimada muestra que hay correlaciones negativas entre la producción y lanatalidad y entre la producción y la mortalidad; 3) hay causalidad de la mortalidad hacia la producción; 4) hay causalidad bidireccional entre la natalidad y la producción; y 5) los efectos de la mortalidad sobre la producción son mayores que los efectos de la natalidad sobre la producción.
Conocimiento tradicional de los hongos silvestres comestibles en la comunidad p'urhépecha de Comachuén, Nahuatzen, Michoacán
Authors: Servín Campuzano Luisa Sebastiana , Alarcón-Cháires Pablo Eulogio
Published: October 2019

Este trabajo reporta los conocimientos tradicionales (CTS) de hongos silvestres comestibles de la comunidad indígena de Comachuén, Nahuatzen, Michoacán; el objetivo fue documentar los mismos. Con metodologías de la etnomicología y la Educación Ambiental Popular (EAP), se realizaron entrevistas, historias de vida y talleres, así como colectas e identificación de hongos. Los resultados muestran la importancia y características de la taxonomía local en este grupo de organismos. De los 25 nombres comunes que se le dan a los hongos silvestres, tres son relevantes culturalmente. Se concluye que la comunidad posee amplios CTS con respecto a los hongos silvestres comestibles y que estos son importantes en su dieta en temporada de lluvias, por lo que la conjugación de estos y el conocimiento científico pueden utilizarse en planes de manejo que aseguren su conservación; así como la formulación de estatutos comunitarios para contribuir con su empoderamiento y manejo de su patrimonio biocultural.
Aspersiones foliares con nutrimentos vs. el rajado de nuez en nogal pecanero Carya illinoinensis
Authors: Salas-Rivera Ramiro , Valdez-Aguilar Luis Alonso , Lira-Saldívar Ricardo Hugo , Ibarra-Jiménez Luis , Cardenas-Flores Antonio
Published: October 2019

En el estado de Coahuila, México, se reportaron pérdidas económicas por rajado del fruto (RF) en nogal pecanero, probablemente relacionadas con carencias nutrimentales. Considerando lo anterior se evaluó la ocurrencia del RF en respuesta a fertilizaciones foliares en cultivares Wichita y Western. Para ello, se aplicaron macronutrimentos, micronutrimentos y una mezcla de ambos. A mediados del ciclo se estimó la ocurrencia de RF y se muestrearon hojas de ápices que soportaban nueces no rajadas o rajadas para determinar su contenido nutrimental. El RF solo se observó en el cv. Wichita y aunque las aspersiones mejoraron su nutrición, no hubo diferencias estadísticas en el porcentaje de nueces rajadas comparadas con un testigo. Finalmente, los foliolos de ápices con nueces rajadas presentaron mayor concentración de nitrógeno (N) y menor concentración de fierro (Fe) que aquellos con nueces no rajadas. Esto sugiere que el N y el Fe tienen una función importante en las causas del RF del pecanero.
Antimicrobial evaluation of plant essential oils against pathogenic microorganisms: In vitro study of oregano oil combined with conventional food preservatives
Authors: Evangelista-Martínez Zahaed , Reyes-Vázquez Nohemí , Rodríguez-Buenfil Ingrid
Published: October 2019

Essential oils (EO) are promising natural antimicrobial additives to control microbial pathogens. This study aims to investigate the antimicrobial activities of plant essential oils and to study the antimicrobial effect of oregano oil (OrO) in combination with food preservatives. The antimicrobial screening showed that Escherichia coli and Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Typhimurium (Salmonella ser. Typhimurium) appeared to be less susceptible to EO, whereas Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans were more affected. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Lethal Concentration (MLC) for laurel, cumin, oregano and rosemary oils showed values ranging from 0.078% to 1.25% (v/v). Also, synergic and viability effects of OrO combined with acetic acid (AcA) showed an additive effect against E. coli and C. albicans, while combination OrO + ascorbic acid (Asc) exhibited the same effect over Salmonella ser. Typhimurium and C. albicans. Therefore, oregano oil in combination with preservatives could be used to control the growth of pathogenic microorganisms for food preservation.
Epigenetic changes in fibroblasts drive cancer metabolism and differentiation
Authors: Mishra Rajeev , Haldar Subhash , Suchanti Surabhi , Bhowmick Neil A
Published: October 2019

Genomic changes that drive cancer initiation and progression contribute to the co-evolution of the adjacent stroma. The nature of the stromal reprogramming involves differential DNA methylation patterns and levels that change in response to the tumor and systemic therapeutic intervention. Epigenetic reprogramming in carcinoma-associated fibroblasts are robust biomarkers for cancer progression and have a transcriptional impact that support cancer epithelial progression in a paracrine manner. For prostate cancer, promoter hypermethylation and silencing of the RasGAP, RASAL3 that resulted in the activation of Ras signaling in carcinoma-associated fibroblasts. Stromal Ras activity initiated a process of macropinocytosis that provided prostate cancer epithelia with abundant glutamine for metabolic conversion to fuel its proliferation and a signal to transdifferentiate into a neuroendocrine phenotype. This epigenetic oncogenic metabolic/signaling axis seemed to be further potentiated by androgen receptor signaling antagonists and contributed to therapeutic resistance. Intervention of stromal signaling may complement conventional therapies targeting the cancer cell.
Prevalence and Factors Associated With Safe Infant Sleep Practices
Authors: Hirai Ashley H. , Kortsmit Katherine , Kaplan Lorena , Reiney Erin , Warner Lee , Parks Sharyn E. , Perkins Maureen , Koso-Thomas Marion , D’Angelo Denise V. , Shapiro-Mendoza Carrie K.
Published: October 2019

OBJECTIVES:

To examine prevalence of safe infant sleep practices and variation by sociodemographic, behavioral, and health care characteristics, including provider advice.

METHODS:

Using 2016 Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System data from 29 states, we examined maternal report of 4 safe sleep practices indicating how their infant usually slept: (1) back sleep position, (2) separate approved sleep surface, (3) room-sharing without bed-sharing, and (4) no soft objects or loose bedding as well as receipt of health care provider advice corresponding to each sleep practice.

RESULTS:

Most mothers reported usually placing their infants to sleep on their backs (78.0%), followed by room-sharing without bed-sharing (57.1%). Fewer reported avoiding soft bedding (42.4%) and using a separate approved sleep surface (31.8%). Reported receipt of provider advice ranged from 48.8% (room-sharing without bed-sharing) to 92.6% (back sleep position). Differences by sociodemographic, behavioral, and health care characteristics were larger for safe sleep practices (∼10–20 percentage points) than receipt of advice (∼5–10 percentage points). Receipt of provider advice was associated with increased use of safe sleep practices, ranging from 12% for room-sharing without bed-sharing (adjusted prevalence ratio: 1.12; 95% confidence interval: 1.09–1.16) to 28% for back sleep position (adjusted prevalence ratio: 1.28; 95% confidence interval: 1.21–1.35). State-level differences in safe sleep practices spanned 20 to 25 percentage points and did not change substantially after adjustment for available characteristics.

CONCLUSIONS:

Safe infant sleep practices, especially those other than back sleep position, are suboptimal, with demographic and state-level differences indicating improvement opportunities. Receipt of provider advice is an important modifiable factor to improve infant sleep practices.