bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Individual time preferences and obesity
Authors: Soofi Moslem , Sari Ali Akbari , Rezaei Satar , Hajizadeh Mohammad , Najafi Farid
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Behavioral economic analysis of health-related behavior is a potentially useful approach to study and control non-communicable diseases. The purpose of this paper is to explore the time preferences of individuals and its impact on obesity in an adult population of Iran.

Design/methodology/approach

A structured questionnaire was completed by 792 individuals who were randomly selected from the participants of an ongoing national Prospective Epidemiological Research Studies in IrAN cohort study in West of Iran. The quasi-hyperbolic discounting model was used to estimate the parameters of time preferences and a probit regression model was used to explore the correlation between obesity and time preferences.

Findings

There was a statistically significant correlation between obesity and both the long-run patience and present-biased preferences of participants. Individuals with a low level of long-run patience were 10.2 percentage points more likely to be obese compared to individuals with a high level of long-run patience. The probability of being obese increased by 11 percentage points in present-biased individuals compared to future biased individuals.

Originality/value

The long-run patience and time inconsistent preferences were significant determinants of obesity. Considering the time-inconsistent preferences in the development of policies to change obesity-related behavior among adults might increase the success rate of the interventions.
Hybrids as potential mediators spreading non‐native genes: Comparison of survival, growth, and movement among native, introduced and their hybrid salmonids
Authors: Fukui Sho , Koizumi Itsuro
Published: November 2019

Comparing multiple fitness components and potential movement of wild hybrids with their parental species is necessary to fully understand the consequences of human‐mediated introgression, but studies tracking both parental species and their hybrids at the individual‐level are limited. Here, we compared growth, survival and movement of sympatric introduced brook trout (BT: Salvelinus fontinalis) and native white‐spotted charr (WSC: S. leucomaenis) with their hybrids (HYB) in a northern Japanese stream, using mark‐recapture data (1,087 marked individuals) collected over 4 years (2013–2016). The mark‐recapture data with a single cohort showed that HYB had a comparable or even higher growth rate to BT and WSC. In addition, there is no evidence that hybrid survival was lower than both parental species throughout the entire study period. Furthermore, HYB showed high mobility equivalent to WSC, while BT showed the lowest mobility. Although our previous studies have documented the reduction of BT distribution and lowered reproductive success of HYB, non‐native genes can pose a threat to native WSC via relatively high survival, growth and/or mobility of HYB.
Why reading is a challenge for U.S. L2 learners: The impact of cognitive, ecological, and psychological factors in L2 comprehension
Authors: Sparks Richard L.
Published: November 2019

Studies have shown that U.S. learners’ proficiency in reading and listening comprehension lags behind their ability to decode words. Recent studies have found that even after 3 years of high school L2 courses, U.S. students fail to develop minimal proficiency in reading comprehension. This paper suggests that while cognitive factors (word decoding and listening comprehension) explain the largest amount of variance in learners’ ability to comprehend text, this model, known as the Simple View of Reading, does not consider other factors that may contribute to reading achievement, especially in a largely monolingual English context. In contrast, the Component Model of Reading posits that reading ability is influenced not only by cognitive skills but also by factors in the ecological and psychological domains. In particular, the U.S. social context hampers primarily monolingual English speakers from becoming proficient in L2 oral language and L2 reading comprehension. Pedagogical recommendations are offered.
Refining the role of phenology in regulating gross ecosystem productivity across European peatlands
Authors: Koebsch Franziska , Sonnentag Oliver , Järveoja Järvi , Peltoniemi Mikko , Alekseychik Pavel , Aurela Mika , Arslan Ali Nadir , Dinsmore Kerry , Gianelle Damiano , Helfter Carole , Jackowicz‐Korczynski Marcin , Korrensalo Aino , Leith Fraser , Linkosalmi Maiju , Lohila Annalea , Lund Magnus , Maddison Martin , Mammarella Ivan , Mander Ülo , Minkkinen Kari , Pickard Amy , Pullens Johannes W. M. , Tuittila Eeva‐Stiina , Nilsson Mats B. , Peichl Matthias
Published: November 2019

The role of plant phenology as a regulator for gross ecosystem productivity (GEP) in peatlands is empirically not well constrained. This is because proxies to track vegetation development with daily coverage at the ecosystem scale have only recently become available and the lack of such data has hampered the disentangling of biotic and abiotic effects. This study aimed at unraveling the mechanisms that regulate the seasonal variation in GEP across a network of eight European peatlands. Therefore, we described phenology with canopy greenness derived from digital repeat photography and disentangled the effects of radiation, temperature and phenology on GEP with commonality analysis and structural equation modeling. The resulting relational network could not only delineate direct effects but also accounted for possible effect combinations such as interdependencies (mediation) and interactions (moderation). We found that peatland GEP was controlled by the same mechanisms across all sites: phenology constituted a key predictor for the seasonal variation in GEP and further acted as a distinct mediator for temperature and radiation effects on GEP. In particular, the effect of air temperature on GEP was fully mediated through phenology, implying that direct temperature effects representing the thermoregulation of photosynthesis were negligible. The tight coupling between temperature, phenology and GEP applied especially to high latitude and high altitude peatlands and during phenological transition phases. Our study highlights the importance of phenological effects when evaluating the future response of peatland GEP to climate change. Climate change will affect peatland GEP especially through changing temperature patterns during plant phenologically sensitive phases in high latitude and high altitude regions.
English medium instruction in higher education: Teacher perspectives on professional development and certification
Authors: Macaro Ernesto , Akincioglu Mustafa , Han Shuangmiao
Published: November 2019

The growth in academic subjects taught through English, in non‐Anglophone countries (English medium instruction, EMI) has been matched by growth in research into its desirability. Research has also indicated that EMI teachers need professional development (PD) to teach effectively. Although PD programmes are available, there is no consensus as to the competencies needed of an EMI teacher, nor of their certification. Our international survey explored teacher perspectives on proposed competencies in relation to the language challenges faced by EMI students and whether teachers believe certification is desirable. Teachers were keen to obtain certification at an international level thereby providing an aspect of programme quality assurance. However, they saw obstacles to obtaining competences beyond merely a threshold level of their own general language proficiency.
Pyrenoidal sequestration of cadmium impairs carbon dioxide fixation in a microalga
Authors: Penen Florent , Isaure Marie‐Pierre , Dobritzsch Dirk , Castillo‐Michel Hiram , Gontier Etienne , Le Coustumer Philippe , Malherbe Julien , Schaumlöffel Dirk
Published: November 2019

Mixotrophic microorganisms are able to use organic carbon as well as inorganic carbon sources and thus, play an essential role in the biogeochemical carbon cycle. In aquatic ecosystems, the alteration of carbon dioxide (CO2) fixation by toxic metals such as cadmium – classified as a priority pollutant – could contribute to the unbalance of the carbon cycle. In consequence, the investigation of cadmium impact on carbon assimilation in mixotrophic microorganisms is of high interest. We exposed the mixotrophic microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii to cadmium in a growth medium containing both CO2 and labelled 13C‐[1,2] acetate as carbon sources. We showed that the accumulation of cadmium in the pyrenoid, where it was predominantly bound to sulphur ligands, impaired CO2 fixation to the benefit of acetate assimilation. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM)/X‐ray energy dispersive spectroscopy (X‐EDS) and micro X‐ray fluorescence (μXRF)/micro X‐ray absorption near‐edge structure (μXANES) at Cd LIII‐edge indicated the localization and the speciation of cadmium in the cellular structure. In addition, nanoscale secondary ion mass spectrometry (NanoSIMS) analysis of the 13C/12C ratio in pyrenoid and starch granules revealed the origin of carbon sources. The fraction of carbon in starch originating from CO2 decreased from 73 to 39% during cadmium stress. For the first time, the complementary use of high‐resolution elemental and isotopic imaging techniques allowed relating the impact of cadmium at the subcellular level with carbon assimilation in a mixotrophic microalga.
Internal aeration and respiration of submerged tomato hypocotyls are enhanced by ethylene‐mediated aerenchyma formation and hypertrophy
Authors: Mignolli Francesco , Todaro Juan S. , Vidoz María L.
Published: November 2019

With the impending threat that climate change is imposing on all terrestrial ecosystems, the ability of plants to adjust to changing environments is, more than ever, a very desirable trait. Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) plants display a number of responses that allow them to survive under different abiotic stresses such as flooding. We focused on understanding the mechanism that facilitates oxygen diffusion to submerged tissues and the impact it has on sustaining respiration levels. We observed that, as flooding stress progresses, stems increase their diameter and internal porosity. Ethylene triggers stem hypertrophy by inducing cell wall loosening genes, and aerenchyma formation seems to involve programmed cell death mediated by hydrogen peroxide. We finally assessed whether these changes in stem morphology and anatomy are indeed effective to restore oxygen levels in submerged organs. We found that aerenchyma formation and hypertrophy not only increase oxygen diffusion toward the base of the plant, but also result in an augmented respiration rate. We consider that this response is crucial to maintain adventitious root development under such conditions and, therefore, making it possible for the plant to survive when the original roots die.
Pre‐clinical development of a cryopreservable megakaryocytic cell product capable of sustained platelet production in mice
Authors: Patel Ami , Clementelli Cara Marie , Jarocha Danuta , Mosoyan Gohar , Else Cindy , Kintali Manisha , Fong Helen , Tong Jay , Gordon Ronald , Gillespie Virginia , Keyzner Alla , Poncz Mortimer , Hoffman Ronald , Iancu‐Rubin Camelia
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

Platelet (PLT) transfusions are the most effective treatments for patients with thrombocytopenia. The growing demand for PLT transfusion products is compounded by a limited supply due to dependency on volunteer donors, a short shelf‐life, risk of contaminating pathogens, and alloimmunization. This study provides preclinical evidence that a third‐party, cryopreservable source of PLT‐generating cells has the potential to complement presently available PLT transfusion products.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

CD34+ hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells derived from umbilical cord blood (UCB) units were used in a simple and efficient culture system to generate a cell product consisting of megakaryocytes (MKs) at different stages of development. The cultures thus generated were evaluated ex vivo and in vivo before and after cryopreservation.

RESULTS

We generated a megakaryocytic cell product that can be cryopreserved without altering its phenotypical and functional capabilities. The infusion of such a product, either fresh or cryopreserved, into immune‐deficient mice led to production of functional human PLTs which were observed within a week after infusion and persisted for 8 weeks, orders of magnitude longer than that observed after the infusion of traditional PLT transfusion products. The sustained human PLT engraftment was accompanied by a robust presence of human cells in the bone marrow (BM), spleen, and lungs of recipient mice.

CONCLUSION

This is a proof‐of‐principle study demonstrating the creation of a cryopreservable megakaryocytic cell product which releases functional PLTs in vivo. Clinical development of such a product is currently being pursued for the treatment of thrombocytopenia in patients with hematological malignancies.
Two-step potassium hydroxide etching to enhance aspect ratio in trench fabrication
Authors: Ekinci Huseyin , Dey Ripon K. , Cui Bo
Published: November 2019

Among various grating structure fabrication techniques, potassium hydroxide (KOH) wet anisotropic etching of Si(110) wafers offers low cost and impressive aspect ratio over large areas with high etch uniformity. The aspect ratio is ultimately limited by lateral etching that constantly widens the trenches. In this paper, the authors demonstrated a method to double the achievable aspect ratio using two-step KOH etching. After first KOH etching, the grating structure was grown with a thermal oxide; and after removing the oxide from the trench bottom using reactive ion etching, a second KOH etching was carried out with the original trench sidewall protected by the thermal oxide. The authors achieved the highest anisotropy [etching rate ratio of (110) and (111)] of 247 with 50 wt. % KOH at room temperature. Using the two-step KOH etching, it is possible to increase the aspect ratio by more than a factor of 2 while keeping the trench width almost unchanged.
Significant Improvement in Diagnosis of Hepatitis C Virus Infection by a One-Step Strategy in a Central Laboratory: an Optimal Tool for Hepatitis C Elimination?
Authors: López-Martínez Rosa , Arias-García Andrea , Rodríguez-Algarra Francisco , Castellote-Bellés Laura , Rando-Segura Ariadna , Tarraso Guillermo , Vargas-Accarino Elena , Montserrat-Lloan Isabel , Blanco-Grau Albert , Caballero-Garralda Andrea , Ferrer-Costa Roser , Pumarola-Sunye Tomas , Buti-Ferret Maria , Esteban-Mur Rafael , Quer Josep , Casis-Saez Ernesto , Rodríguez-Frías Francisco
Published: November 2019

The remarkable effectivity of current antiviral therapies has led to consider the elimination of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. However, HCV infection is highly underdiagnosed; therefore, a global strategy for eliminating it requires improving the effectiveness of HCV diagnosis to identify hidden cases.
Analysis of CA Content and CPSF6 Dependence of Early HIV-1 Replication Complexes in SupT1-R5 Cells
Authors: Zila Vojtech , Müller Thorsten G. , Laketa Vibor , Müller Barbara , Kräusslich Hans-Georg
Published: November 2019

The HIV-1 capsid performs essential functions during early viral replication and is an interesting target for novel antivirals. Thus, understanding molecular and structural details of capsid function will be important for elucidating early HIV-1 (and retroviral in general) replication in relevant target cells and may also aid antiviral development. Here, we show that HIV-1 capsids stay largely intact during transport to the nucleus of infected T cells but appear to uncoat upon entry into the nucleoplasm. These results support the hypothesis that capsids protect the HIV-1 genome from cytoplasmic defense mechanisms and target the genome toward the nucleus. A protective role of the capsid could be a paradigm that also applies to other viruses. Our findings raise the question of how reverse transcription of the HIV-1 genome is accomplished in the context of the capsid structure and whether the process is completed before the capsid is uncoated at the nuclear pore.
Misoprostol knowledge and distribution in Mexico City after the change in abortion law: a survey of pharmacy staff
Authors: Weaver Greta , Schiavon Raffaela , Collado Maria Elena , Küng Stephanie , Darney Blair G
Published: November 2019

Objective

First-trimester abortion is widely available in Mexico City since legalisation in 2007, but few data exist surrounding pharmacy staff knowledge and sales practices. We describe misoprostol availability, whether a prescription is required, and knowledge of the legal status of abortion and uses for misoprostol among pharmacy staff in Mexico City.

Methods

Data were collected from 174 pharmacies in Mexico City. One employee at each pharmacy was asked about availability, need for prescription, indications for misoprostol, and sociodemographic information. Our primary outcome was availability of misoprostol. We used descriptive and bivariate statistics to compare knowledge and practices by type of pharmacy and staff gender.

Patients and public involvement

No patients were involved in this study.

Results

Of the 174 pharmacies, 65 were chain and 109 small independent. Misoprostol was available at 61% of sites. Only 49% of independent pharmacies sold misoprostol, compared with 81.5% of chain pharmacies (p<0.05). Knowledge of indications for misoprostol use was similar. The majority (80%) of respondents knew that abortion was legal in Mexico City, and 44% reported requiring a prescription for sale of misoprostol, with no significant difference between male and female staff or by pharmacy type.

Conclusions

Availability, requirement of a prescription, and knowledge of indications for use of misoprostol varies among pharmacies, resulting in differential access to medical abortion. Pharmacies may be a good place to target education for pharmacy staff and women about safe and effective use of misoprostol for abortion.
Significantly increased risk of all-cause mortality among cardiac patients feeling lonely
Authors: Christensen Anne Vinggaard , Juel Knud , Ekholm Ola , Thrysøe Lars , Thorup Charlotte Brun , Borregaard Britt , Mols Rikke Elmose , Rasmussen Trine Bernholdt , Berg Selina Kikkenborg
Published: November 2019

Objective

To explore whether living alone and loneliness 1) are associated with poor patient-reported outcomes at hospital discharge and 2) predict cardiac events and mortality 1 year after hospital discharge in women and men with ischaemic heart disease, arrhythmia, heart failure or heart valve disease.

Methods

A national cross-sectional survey including patients with known cardiac disease at hospital discharge combined with national register data at baseline and 1-year follow-up. Loneliness was evaluated using one self-reported question, and information on cohabitation was available from national registers. Patient-reported outcomes were Short Form-12, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and HeartQoL. Clinical outcomes were 1-year cardiac events (myocardial infarction, stroke, cardiac arrest, ventricular tachycardia/fibrillation) and all-cause mortality from national registers.

Results

A total of 13 443 patients (53%) with ischaemic heart disease, arrhythmia, heart failure or heart valve disease completed the survey. Of these, 70% were male, and mean age was 66.1 among women and 64.9 among men. Across cardiac diagnoses, loneliness was associated with significantly poorer patient-reported outcomes in men and women. Loneliness predicted all-cause mortality among women and men (HR 2.92 (95% CI 1.55 to 5.49) and HR 2.14 (95% CI 1.43 to 3.22), respectively). Living alone predicted cardiac events in men only (HR 1.39 (95% CI 1.05 to 1.85)).

Conclusions

A strong association between loneliness and poor patient-reported outcomes and 1-year mortality was found in both men and women across cardiac diagnoses. The results suggest that loneliness should be a priority for public health initiatives, and should also be included in clinical risk assessment in cardiac patients.
Nicotine-upregulated miR-30a arrests cell cycle in G1 phase by directly targeting CCNE2 in human periodontal ligament cells
Authors: Wu Lizheng , Yang Kuan , Gui Yajie , Wang Xiaojing
Published: November 2019

The consumption of nicotine via smoking tobacco has been reported to stimulate the occurrence and progression of periodontitis. Many studies have demonstrated that nicotine prevents the regeneration of periodontal tissues primarily by inhibiting the proliferation of human periodontal ligament (PDL) cells. However, the mechanisms underlying this process are still unclear. Therefore, we investigated whether nicotine-upregulated miR-30a inhibited the proliferation of human PDL cells by downregulating cyclin E2 (CCNE2), in vitro. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis revealed that nicotine upregulated the expression of miR-30a in human PDL cells. In addition, nicotine inhibited the proliferation of human PDL cells by inducing cell cycle arrest. To support this hypothesis, we showed that nicotine downregulated the expression of CCNE2 in human PDL cells, whereas inhibition of miR-30a restored CCNE2 expression that had been downregulated by nicotine. Furthermore, using luciferase reporter assays, we found that miR-30a directly interacts with the CCNE2 3′UTR. In conclusion, these findings indicate that nicotine-upregulated miR-30a inhibits the proliferation of human PDL cells by downregulating the expression of CCNE2.
Protective effect of nitronyl nitroxide against hypoxia-induced damage in PC12 cells
Authors: Luo Hongbo , Sun Wei , Shao Jin , Ma Huiping , Jia Zhengping , Jing Linlin
Published: November 2019

Hypoxia induces cellular oxidative stress that is associated with neurodegenerative diseases. HPN (4′-hydroxyl-2-substituted phenyl nitronyl nitroxide), a stable nitronyl nitroxide, has excellent free radical scavenging properties. The purpose of this study was to investigate the protective effects of HPN on hypoxia-induced damage in PC12 cells. It was shown that HPN significantly attenuated hypoxia-induced loss of cell viability, release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and morphological changes in PC12 cells. Moreover, hypoxic PC12 cells had increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), and expression of HIF-1α and VEGF, but had reduced levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), and HPN reversed these changes. HPN also inhibited hypoxia-induced cell apoptosis via suppressing the expression of Bax, cytochrome c, and caspase-3, and inducing the expression of Bcl-2. These results indicate that the protective effects of HPN on hypoxia-induced damage in PC12 cells is associated with the suppression of hypoxia-induced oxidative stress and cell apoptosis. HPN could be a promising candidate for the development of a novel neuroprotective agent.
Long noncoding RNA MALAT1 participates in the pathological angiogenesis of diabetic retinopathy in an oxygen-induced retinopathy mouse model by sponging miR-203a-3p
Authors: Yu Li , Fu Jinling , Yu Na , Wu Yazhen , Han Ning
Published: November 2019

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a devastating complication of diabetes. The aim of the present study is to investigate the exact role and mechanism of long noncoding RNA MALAT1 (MALAT1) in the progress of DR. An oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) mouse model and high glucose (HG) stimulated human retinal microvascular endothelial cells (HRMECs) were employed to mimic the pathological statues of DR. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and Western blot results showed that MALAT1, VEGFA, and HIF-1α levels were increased in DR retinal tissues and HG-stimulated HRMECs, whereas the expression of miR-203a-3p was decreased. Knockdown of MALAT1 or upregulation of miR-203a-3p both suppressed HG-induced proliferation, migration, and tube formation of HRMECs. A dual-luciferase reporter assay showed that miR-203a-3p could bind to the predicted seed regions of MALAT1 as evidenced by the reduced luciferase activity. Furthermore, enforced downregulation of miR-203a-3p abolished the suppressive effect of MALAT1 silencing on HRMEC cell migration and tube formation. In conclusion, these data demonstrated that MALAT1 may affect angiogenesis by sponging miR-203a-3p in DR, suggesting that MALAT1 may act as a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of DR.
Research Highlights
Authors: Libkin Leonid
Published: November 2019

Take a database conference paper and search for "in the real world" in it; chances are high you will find it. Of course what is real depends on one's perspective: for a pure theory paper it could be what one saw in a systems paper, for a systems paper it could be an issue that implementors of DBMSs had to deal with, and for the latter it may be what the customers need. But to sharpen our research tools, it helps tremendously to understand that the real "real world" is, and adjust our (sometimes very elaborate) techniques to address problems that actually occur.

A nice example of this is analyzing the computational complexity of database queries. Database theory has developed an arsenal of tools for this. We know that for many classes of queries, the complexity is roughly kDkO(kQk) for a database D and a query Q, where k k means size. Thus, much research went into the detailed analysis of the structure of queries that removes kQk from the exponent and replaces it by a small fixed constant. We have a very good theoretical understanding of such classes, but we know much less about their relationship with queries that real-world users write.
#8712;
Authors: Zhang Dan , McKenna Ryan , Kotsogiannis Ios , Bissias George , Hay Michael , Machanavajjhala Ashwin , Miklau Gerome
Published: November 2019

The adoption of differential privacy is growing but the complexity of designing private, efficient and accurate algorithms is still high. We propose a novel programming framework and system, ∈ktelo, for implementing both existing and new privacy algorithms. For the task of answering linear counting queries, we show that nearly all existing algorithms can be composed from operators, each conforming to one of a small number of operator classes. While past programming frameworks have helped to ensure the privacy of programs, the novelty of our framework is its significant support for authoring accurate and efficient (as well as private) programs.

We describe the design and architecture of the ∈ktelo system and show that ∈ktelo is expressive enough to describe many algorithms from the privacy literature. ∈ktelo allows for safer implementations through code reuse and allows both privacy novices and experts to more easily design new algorithms. We demonstrate the use of ∈ktelo by designing new algorithms offering state-of-the-art accuracy and runtime.
Entity Matching with Quality and Error Guarantees
Authors: Tao Yufei
Published: November 2019

Given two sets of entities X and Y , entity matching aims to decide whether x and y represent the same entity for each pair (x, y) ∈ X × Y . In many scenarios, the only way to ensure perfect accuracy is to launch a costly inspection procedure on every (x, y), whereas performing the procedure |X| · |Y | times is prohibitively expensive. It is, therefore, important to design an algorithm that carries out the procedure on only some pairs, and renders the verdicts on the other pairs automatically with as few mistakes as possible. This article describes an algorithm that achieves the purpose using the methodology of active monotone classification. The algorithm ensures an asymptotically optimal tradeoff between the number of pairs inspected and the number of mistakes made.
SIGCSE board initiatives
Authors: Decker Adrienne
Published: November 2019

With every election of a new SIGCSE board comes the challenge of continuing the work of the previous board while looking ahead to see what new and interesting things are on the horizon for the incoming board members. The SIGCSE 2019-2022 board comes in on the heels of a highly productive 2016-2019 board that not only completed a lot of work, but also launched an entirely new SIGCSE-sponsored conference!
ICER 2019 review
Authors: McCartney Robert , Petersen Andrew
Published: November 2019

The 15th International Computing Education Research conference was held from 12-14 August 2019 in Toronto, Canada. We had 151 attendees (including 70 first-timers and 46 students) from 13 countries; this was the highest attendance for an ICER outside of the US. We had a record number of paper submissions (137), of which 28 were accepted, for an acceptance rate of 20%.
Member spotlight
Authors: Miller Jeffrey
Published: November 2019

In this feature of the Bulletin, we highlight members of the SIGCSE community. In this issue, Bulletin co-editor Jeffrey Miller interviewed Amy J. Ko.
Estradiol regulates daily rhythms underlying diet-induced obesity in female mice
Authors: Omotola Oluwabukola , Legan Sandra , Slade Emily , Adekunle Ayooluwatomiwa , Pendergast Julie S.
Published: November 2019

The circadian system is a critical regulator of metabolism and obesity in males, but its role in regulating obesity in females is poorly understood. Because there are sex differences in the development of obesity and susceptibility to obesity-related disorders, we sought to determine the role of estrogens in regulating the circadian mechanisms underlying diet-induced obesity. When fed high-fat diet, C57BL/6J male mice gain weight, whereas females are resistant to diet-induced obesity. Here, we demonstrate that estradiol regulates circadian rhythms in females to confer resistance to diet-induced obesity. We found that ovariectomized females with undetectable circulating estrogens became obese and had disrupted daily rhythms of eating behavior and locomotor activity when fed a high-fat diet. The phase of the liver molecular circadian rhythm was also altered by high-fat diet feeding in ovariectomized mice. Estradiol replacement in ovariectomized females a fed high-fat diet rescued these behavioral and tissue rhythms. Additionally, restoring the daily rhythm of eating behavior in ovariectomized females with time-restricted feeding inhibited diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance. Together, these data suggest that the circadian system is a target for treating obesity and its comorbidities in women after menopause, when circulating levels of estrogens are too low to protect their circadian rhythms.
Critical Roles of Balanced Innate Lymphoid Cell Subsets in Intestinal Homeostasis, Chronic Inflammation, and Cancer
Authors: Wu Jing , Lv Xinping , Zhu Shan , Li Tete , Cheng Hang , Chen Jingtao
Published: November 2019

Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) comprise a recently identified subset of innate immune cells that are mainly localized to mucosa-associated tissues. Although they have not yet been fully characterized, they can generally be divided into ILC1s, ILC2s, and ILC3s. ILCs and their corresponding cytokines act as important mediators of the early stages of the immune response during inflammation, tissue repair, and the maintenance of epithelial integrity. Consequently, the dysregulation of ILC subsets might promote inflammation and cancer. Numerous studies have demonstrated that these cells play an important role in maintaining the microecological balance of the small intestine; however, their specific roles in mediating inflammation in this tissue and tumorigenesis remain unclear and controversial. In this review, we focus on recent progress that has helped to gain a better understanding of the role of ILCs in intestinal homeostasis, chronic inflammation, and cancer. Further focused research on the regulation and role of ILCs in intestinal homeostasis and pathology will help to reveal valuable diagnostic and therapeutic targets for the treatment of intestinal diseases.
Prevalence of Gastric and Small-Intestinal Mucosal Injury in Elderly Patients Taking Enteric-Coated Aspirin by Magnetically Controlled Capsule Endoscopy
Authors: Gao Feng , Chen Xue , Zhang Jie
Published: November 2019

Objective. To investigate aspirin-related gastric and small-intestinal mucosal injury in elderly patients by magnetically controlled capsule endoscopy (MCCE). Methods. Patients taking enteric-coated aspirin attending the outpatient department of Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, from September 2017 to July 2019 underwent MCCE to assess injury to the gastric and small-intestinal mucosa. The patients were divided into the elderly group (age≥60 years) and middle-aged group (45 years≤age<60 years), and their clinical data were evaluated. Results. Sixty-eight patients (34 per group) taking enteric-coated aspirin were recruited, and the elderly and middle-aged groups did not differ significantly in sex, history of smoking, history of alcohol consumption, body mass index, or accompanying diseases. In the elderly and middle-aged groups, the gastric Lanza scores were 2.0 (2.0, 3.0) and 2.0 (1.0, 3.0; P=0.192), the numbers of patients with small-intestinal mucosal injuries (at least one erosion and/or ulcer) were 30 (88.2%) and 15 (44.1%; P<0.001), the numbers of patients with more severe small-intestinal mucosal injuries (larger erosion and/or ulcer) were 11 (32.4%) and 3 (8.8%; P=0.033), the numbers of patients with ileal erosion were 22 (64.7%) and 8 (23.5%; P=0.001), and the durations of aspirin use were 30.0 (12.0, 120.0) and 10.5 (2.0–48.0) months (P=0.007), respectively. Conclusions. The rate of small-intestinal mucosal injury was significantly higher in elderly than in middle-aged patients taking enteric-coated aspirin, especially the rate of ileal erosion. MCCE enables the monitoring of aspirin-related gastric and small-intestinal mucosal injury in elderly patients, which can guide treatment decision making.
Causal Attributions as Correlates of Secondary School Students’ Academic Achievement
Authors: Ngunu Susan , Kinai Theresia , Ndambuki Philomena , Mwaura Peter
Published: November 2019

The purpose of this study was to establish the relationship between causal attributions and academic achievement. Weiner’s Model of Achievement Attribution guided this research. Five-hundred and eighty-five students (315 males, 270 females) participated in the study. The participants completed the Multidimensional Multiattributional Causality Scale (MMCS) while academic achievement was obtained from the participants’ academic records. Majority of the students attributed both success and failure to internal, uncontrollable, and unstable attributions. The results indicated that causal attributions were significantly correlated to academic achievement. Taking into account that students can form maladaptive causal attributions, the study made recommendations to the stakeholders on intervention measures.
Immunohistochemical Study Using Monoclonal VE1 Antibody Can Substitute the Molecular Tests for Apprehension of BRAF V600E Mutation in Patients with Non-small-Cell Lung Carcinoma
Authors: Karbel Hadeel Abdul Elah , Ejam Sura Salman , Naji Ali Zaki
Published: November 2019

In patients with non-small-cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC), the analysis of BRAF V600E mutation has become more and more applied since the introduction of many mutation-targeted medications. In this regard, the advantage of immunohistochemistry (IHC) as a reliable diagnostic test substitute to other molecular studies has not been approved yet. Objective. To examine the dependability of using immunohistochemical method utilizing monoclonal VE1 antibody in the detection of BRAF V600 E mutation in patients with non-small-cell lung carcinoma and compare the results there with that of polymerase chain reaction (SSCP-PCR). Materials and Methods. We retrospectively identified 53 patients of whom their histopathological diagnosis was non-small-cell carcinoma of different types. Evaluation of BRAF V600E mutation was assessed using polymerase chain reaction (SSCP-PCR) and IHC using VE1 antibody. This approach was applied to all cases under the study. Results. Among the 53 NSCLC samples, only 5 (9.3%) cases harbored BRAF V600E mutation, 80% were of adenocarcinoma type, and the rest (20%) was of squamous cell carcinoma. IHC analysis for VE1 was positive in 4 out of 5 (80%) BRAF-mutated tumors and negative in all nonmutated BRAF V600 E NSCLC. Conclusion. Our results revealed that VE1 antibody IHC analysis is a promising technique that can be used to detect BRAF V600-mutated NSCLC with relatively high specificity and sensitivity and might become a potential alternative to the current molecular biological methods that are in use for this purpose.
Placenta Accreta in a Woman with Childhood Uterine Irradiation: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Sasagasako Nanayo , Tani Hirohiko , Chigusa Yoshitsugu , Io Shingo , Mogami Haruta , Hamanishi Junzo , Horie Akihito , Kondoh Eiji , Sato Yukiyasu , Mandai Masaki
Published: November 2019

The pregnancies of childhood cancer survivors who have received uterine irradiation are associated with a high risk of several obstetrical complications, including placenta accreta. The present case was a 26-year-old pregnant woman with a history of myelodysplastic syndrome treated with umbilical cord blood transplantation following chemotherapy and total body irradiation at the age of 10. Despite every possible measure to prevent preterm labor, uterine contractions became uncontrollable and a female infant weighing 892 g was vaginally delivered at 27+4 weeks of gestation. Under the postpartum ultrasonographic diagnosis of placenta accreta, we selected to leave the placenta in situ. Although emergency bilateral uterine artery embolization was required, complete resorption of the residual placenta was accomplished on the 115th day postpartum. Our experience highlighted the following points. (1) The expectant management of placenta accreta arising in an irradiated uterus may not only fulfill fertility preservation, but may also reduce possible risks associated with cesarean hysterectomy. (2) Due to extreme thinning of and a poor blood supply to the myometrium, reaching an antepartum diagnosis of placenta accreta in an irradiated uterus is difficult. (3) The recurrence of placenta accreta in subsequent pregnancies needs to be considered after successful preservation of the uterus.
Organic Food Labeling and Advertising: A Tripartite Game Model between One Supplier and Two Heterogeneous Manufacturers
Authors: Wang Jun , Yao Song , Lu Xinman , Li Yu
Published: November 2019

The development of the organic food industry is of great significance to the environment and society as consumers increasingly prefer green and healthy food. However, certain production and investment problems must be solved. A tripartite game model is established in this study to investigate the labeling and advertising investment decisions in an organic food supply chain composed of one supplier and two heterogeneous manufacturers by the biform game approach. In addition, a subsidy mechanism is introduced to alleviate underinvestment. The results show that, first, the supplier will label if labeling cost is relatively low without considering advertising investment. Second, the supplier will not label if advertising investment is considered because of the “diffusion of responsibility” mentality, and both manufacturers will invest in advertising as a result of equilibrium in dominant strategies. Third, the advertising subsidy mechanism can achieve Pareto improvement and coordinate the supply chain. Finally, manufacturer heterogeneity will lead to differentiated subsidy strategies that the supplier can claim to give additional subsidies to the weak manufacturer, thereby weakening the “diffusion of responsibility” mentality.
Prevalence and Associated Factors of Violence against Hospital Staff at Amanuel Mental Specialized Hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Abate Ayalew , Abebaw Dessie , Birhanu Addis , Zerihun Aemero , Assefa Dawit
Published: November 2019

Background. Violence at the workplace has become an alarming phenomenon worldwide. The real size of the problem is largely unknown and recent information shows that the current knowledge is only the tip of the iceberg. The enormous cost of violence at the workplace for person and community at large is becoming more apparent. It could be physical, sexual, and verbal in nature and could be actual or threatened. Objectives. To access prevalence and associated factors of violence against hospital staff at Amanuel Mental Specialized Hospital Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Methods. An institution based cross-sectional study was employed in 2017. The data were collected using Workplace Violence in the Health Sector Country Case Study Questionnaire from 496 participants. Participants had been selected using simple random sampling technique and data were collected using a self-administered structured questionnaire. The collected data were entered into Epi-data version 3.1, and SPSS version 21 was used for Analysis. Binary logistic regression was fitted to identify factors associated with the outcome variable. Result. From 496 staff intended to have participated in this study, complete data were obtained from 435, making a response rate of 87.7%. This research showed high prevalence of violence and we have got that staff had been exposed to physical violence 36.8%, verbal violence 62.1%, and sexual violence 21.8 % over the past year, respectively. Age, sex, and contact with the patient were statistically significant variables (p<0.05). Conclusion and Recommendation. According to this study, majority of AMSH staff were violated by the patient they care.
Unusual Presentation with Orbital Mass in a Child with Precursor B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Sathitsamitphong Lalita , Natesirinilkul Rungrote , Choeyprasert Worawut , Charoenkwan Pimlak
Published: November 2019

Orbital involvement is one of the extramedullary manifestations in acute leukemia. It is common in acute myeloid leukemia, but rare in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). We described a 3-year-old girl who presented with progressive proptosis of the right eye and was later diagnosed with precursor B-cell ALL. Initial blood count showed Hb 6.9 g/dL, WBC 42,000/mm3, lymphoblast 50%, and platelet count 185,000/mm3. Bone marrow aspiration revealed 90% lymphoblasts with positivity for CD10, CD19, CD20, CD22, and HLA-DR markers. Computed tomography (CT) scan of the brain and orbit revealed a homogeneous enhancing mass involving the right orbit with intracranial extension. The cytogenetic study showed 46,XX chromosomes. After 4 weeks of induction chemotherapy for very high-risk ALL, although the bone marrow was in remission, the proptosis was partially resolved. CT scan confirmed a decrease in size of the right orbital mass and degree of intracranial extension. Unfortunately, the patient abandoned the treatment after the induction chemotherapy. The actual incidence of orbital involvement in ALL is unknown. Previous case reports describe diverse manifestations of orbital involvement in ALL. The involvement may be unilateral or bilateral, may occur at first diagnosis or at relapse, and may be seen in isolation or with other systemic symptoms. There is no standard treatment protocol. Chemotherapy with or without radiotherapy is generally suggested. The role of upfront hematopoietic stem cell transplantation remains inconclusive. The previously reported prognosis of ALL with orbital involvement is poor.
Genetic Approach for Multiobjective Optimization of Epicyclical Gear Train
Authors: Daoudi Kaoutar , Boudi El Mosthapha , Abdellah Mohsine
Published: November 2019

The determination of optimal design of the planetary gear train with a lightweight, a short center distance, and a high efficiency is an important issue in the preliminary design of power transmission systems. Conventional and traditional methods have been widely used in optimization. They are deterministic and limited to solve some mechanical problems with several variables and constraints. Therefore, some optimization methods have been developed, such as the nonconventional method, the genetic algorithm (GA). This paper describes a multiobjective optimization for the epicyclical gear train system using the GA. It is aimed to obtain the optimal dimensions for epicyclical gear components like a module, number of teeth, the tooth width, the shaft diameter of the gears, and a performed efficiency under the variation of operating mode of PGT system. The problem is formulated under the satisfaction of assembly and balance constraints, bending strength, contact strength of teeth, and other dimension conditions. The mathematical model and all steps of the GA are presented in detail.
The Impact of Progressive Visual Field Constriction on Reading Ability in an Inherited Retinal Degeneration
Authors: Jolly Jasleen K. , Couldridge-Smith Clare E. , Xue Kanmin , MacLaren Robert E.
Published: November 2019

Background: The ability to read is an important factor in the quality of life. Choroideremia is an inherited retinal degeneration presenting with gradual, progressive constriction of the central visual field, providing a useful disease model to investigate the impact of the visual field on reading ability.Objective: The aim of this study was to provide practical guidance on the usefulness of measuring reading ability in patients.Method: The Radner Reading Test was administered to 33 patients (65 eyes with choroideremia). To quantify the residual retinal area, the patients underwent microperimetry and imaging. The visual angle subtended by the largest letter read by each subject was calculated using Emsley’s Model Eye.Results: A minimum of 1 letter must be seen to allow the eye to read, with preservation of foveal sensitivity. The relationship between reading speed and acuity varies with the visual field. The reading speed is higher in eyes with an intact fovea (p < 0.001 right eye, p = 0.06 left eye). Qualitative analysis of the direction of the intact retina did not indicate any directional impact on measurements.Conclusions: In order to read, an eye must have enough retinal width close to the fovea to see at least 1 full letter. Direction of print does not impact the ability to read, allowing results from different languages to be combined in clinical trials.
Long-Term Survival after Invasive or Conservative Strategy in Elderly Patients with non-ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Kvakkestad Kristin Marie , Gran Jon Michael , Eritsland Jan , Holst Hansen Charlotte , Fossum Eigil , Andersen Geir Øystein  , Halvorsen Sigrun
Published: November 2019

Background: The optimal management of elderly patients with non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) is still discussed. We aimed to study short- and long-term survival in NSTEMI patients ≥75 years managed with an invasive or a conservative strategy. Methods: NSTEMI patients admitted to Oslo University Hospital Ulleval during 2005–2011 were included consecutively in a prospective registry. Vital status until December 31, 2013, was obtained from the Norwegian Cause of Death Registry. Patients ≥75 years were identified, and 30-day and 7-year survival were analyzed. Logistic- and Cox regression was used to estimate OR and hazard ratio (HR) for death in the invasive versus conservative group, adjusting for registered confounders. Results: There were 2,064 NSTEMI patients ≥75 years (48.2% women); 1,200 (58.1%) were treated with an invasive strategy, and were younger, more likely to be male and previously revascularized compared to 864 (41.9%) patients treated conservatively (p < 0.0001 for all). Survival at 30-day was 94.9% in the invasive and 76.6% in the conservative group. For 30-day survivors, 7-year survival was 47.4% (95% CI 42.9–51.8) and 11.6% (95% CI 8.3–15.6), respectively. After multivariate adjustment, an invasive strategy was associated with lower long-term risk (adjusted HR [aHR] 0.49 [95% CI 0.41–0.59]). Actual revascularization was associated with lower risk of long-term mortality compared to angiography only (aHRPCI 0.73 [95% CI 0.59–0.90], aHRCABG 0.43 [95% CI 0.28–0.65]). Conclusion: In this real-life cohort of NSTEMI patients ≥75 years, 30-day survival was 95%, and 7-year survival was 47% with an invasive strategy. Revascularized patients had a superior long-term prognosis. With a conservative strategy, short- and long-term survival was lower, probably due to selection bias and unmeasured confounding.