bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesizing content models of employee turnover
Authors: Zimmerman Ryan D. , Swider Brian W. , Boswell Wendy R.
Published: August 2018

To identify a set of broad factors that reflect the constructs measured in three content models of employee turnover, we hypothesized 19 scales would reduce to five factors related to employee job‐search behavior and actual turnover decisions: one's affect toward the organization, work environment, instrumental attachment, extraorganizational ties, and sense of obligation. Using a sample of 888 staff members from a large university, the factor structure was confirmed. Multivariate regression results also indicated one's work environment, instrumental attachment, and sense of obligation were significantly and negatively related to both job search and turnover, with work environment and instrumental attachment exhibiting the strongest effects. Extraorganizational ties were only significantly and negatively related to job search. Interestingly, affect toward the organization was not significantly related to either job search or turnover. Path analyses indicated the effects of four of the factors on turnover were fully mediated by job search, with instrumental attachment the sole factor that was only partially mediated. Our model provides a foundation for future researchers to test the uniqueness of new predictors of turnover, as well as guidance to practitioners regarding where resources might be best utilized in curbing turnover.
CTBP1/CYP19A1/estradiol axis together with adipose tissue impacts over prostate cancer growth associated to metabolic syndrome
Authors: Massillo Cintia , Dalton Guillermo Nicolás , Porretti Juliana , Scalise Georgina Daniela , Farré Paula Lucía , Piccioni Flavia , Secchiari Florencia , Pascuali Natalia , Clyne Colin , Gardner Kevin , De Luca Paola , De Siervi Adriana
Published: August 2018

Metabolic syndrome (MeS) increases prostate cancer (PCa) risk and aggressiveness. C‐terminal binding protein 1 (CTBP1) is a transcriptional co‐repressor of tumor suppressor genes that is activated by low NAD+/NADH ratio. Previously, our group established a MeS and PCa mice model that identified CTBP1 as a novel link associating both diseases. We found that CTBP1 controls the transcription of aromatase (CYP19A1), a key enzyme that converts androgens to estrogens. The aim of this work was to investigate the mechanism that explains CTBP1 as a link between MeS and PCa based on CYP19A1 and estrogen synthesis regulation using PCa cell lines, MeS/PCa mice and adipose co‐culture systems. We found that CTBP1 and E1A binding protein p300 (EP300) bind to CYP19A1 promoter and downregulate its expression in PC3 cells. Estradiol, through estrogen receptor beta, released CTBP1 from CYP19A1 promoter triggering its transcription and modulating PCa cell proliferation. We generated NSG and C57BL/6J MeS mice by chronically feeding animals with high fat diet. In the NSG model, CTBP1 depleted PCa xenografts showed an increase in CYP19A1 expression with subsequent increment in intratumor estradiol concentrations. Additionally, in C57BL/6J mice, MeS induced hypertrophy, hyperplasia and inflammation of the white adipose tissue, which leads to a proinflammatory phenotype and increased serum estradiol concentration. Thus, MeS increased PCa growth and Ctbp1, Fabp4 and IL‐6 expression levels. These results describe, for the first time, a novel CTBP1/CYP19A1/Estradiol axis that explains, in part, the mechanism for prostate tumor growth increase by MeS.
Exosomes play roles in sequential processes of tumor metastasis
Authors: Li Keyu , Chen Yonghua , Li Ang , Tan Chunlu , Liu Xubao
Published: August 2018

Overwhelming evidence demonstrates that exosomes, a series of biologically functional small vesicles of endocytic origin carrying a variety of active constituents, especially tumor‐derived exosomes, contribute to tumor progression and metastasis. This review focuses on the specific multifaceted roles of exosomes in affecting sequenced four crucial processes of metastasis, through which cancer cells spread from primary to secondary organs and finally form macroscopic metastatic lesions. First, exosomes modulate the primary tumor sites to assist cancer growth and dissemination. In this part, five main biological events are reviewed, including the transfer of oncogenic constituents, the recruitment and activation of fibroblasts, the induction of angiogenesis, immunosuppression and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) promotion. In Step 2, we list two recently disclosed mechanisms during the organ‐specific homing process: the exosomal integrin model and exosomal epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)/miR‐26/hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) model. Subsequently, Step 3 focuses on the interactions between exosomes and pre‐metastatic niche, in which we highlight the specific functions of exosomes in angiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis, immune modulation and metabolic, epigenetic and stromal reprogramming of pre‐metastatic niche. Finally, we summarize the mechanisms of exosomes in helping the metastatic circulating tumor cells escape from immunologic surveillance, survive in the blood circulation and proliferate in host organs.
The role of TCF3 as potential master regulator in blastemal Wilms tumors
Authors: Kehl Tim , Schneider Lara , Kattler Kathrin , Stöckel Daniel , Wegert Jenny , Gerstner Nico , Ludwig Nicole , Distler Ute , Tenzer Stefan , Gessler Manfred , Walter Jörn , Keller Andreas , Graf Norbert , Meese Eckart , Lenhof Hans‐Peter
Published: August 2018

Wilms tumors are the most common type of pediatric kidney tumors. While the overall prognosis for patients is favorable, especially tumors that exhibit a blastemal subtype after preoperative chemotherapy have a poor prognosis. For an improved risk assessment and therapy stratification, it is essential to identify the driving factors that are distinctive for this aggressive subtype. In our study, we compared gene expression profiles of 33 tumor biopsies (17 blastemal and 16 other tumors) after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. The analysis of this dataset using the Regulator Gene Association Enrichment algorithm successfully identified several biomarkers and associated molecular mechanisms that distinguish between blastemal and nonblastemal Wilms tumors. Specifically, regulators involved in embryonic development and epigenetic processes like chromatin remodeling and histone modification play an essential role in blastemal tumors. In this context, we especially identified TCF3 as the central regulatory element. Furthermore, the comparison of ChIP‐Seq data of Wilms tumor cell cultures from a blastemal mouse xenograft and a stromal tumor provided further evidence that the chromatin states of blastemal cells share characteristics with embryonic stem cells that are not present in the stromal tumor cell line. These stem‐cell like characteristics could potentially add to the increased malignancy and chemoresistance of the blastemal subtype.

Along with TCF3, we detected several additional biomarkers that are distinctive for blastemal Wilms tumors after neoadjuvant chemotherapy and that may provide leads for new therapeutic regimens.
The role of elective and emergency cesarean delivery in maternal postpartum anhedonia, anxiety, and depression
Authors: Zanardo Vincenzo , Giliberti Lara , Giliberti Elia , Volpe Francesca , Straface Gianluca , Greco Pantaleo
Published: August 2018

Objective

To compare levels of anhedonia, anxiety, and depression in women following elective and emergency cesarean delivery.

Methods

An observational study was conducted between January 1, 2015, and May 31, 2017, among Italian women who delivered healthy neonates at term at the Policlinico Abano Terme, Italy, by vaginal, elective cesarean delivery (ElCD) or emergency cesarean (EmCD) delivery. The women completed the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), including specific factors within each category, 2 days post‐delivery to measure postpartum depressive symptomatology.

Results

Of the 2234 women enrolled in the study, 1702 (76.2%) had a vaginal delivery and 532 (23.8%) a cesarean delivery, of which 264 (11.8%) were emergency and 268 (12.0%) were elective. Mean EPDS scores (P=0.075) and the number of women with EPDS scores >12 (P=0.718) were comparable among the delivery groups. However, mean anxiety factor scores were significantly higher in the ElCD group (P=0.031), and conversely, mean anhedonia factor scores were significantly higher in the EmCD group (P=0.001).

Conclusion

Postpartum depressive symptomatology of women who have had a cesarean delivery was characterized by higher levels of anxiety after ElCD and by higher levels of anhedonia after EmCD.
Phosphomimetic Mutation Destabilizes the Central Core Domain of Human p53
Authors: Luwang Johnson Wahengbam , Natesh Ramanathan
Published: August 2018

Transcriptional activity of p53 is modulated by various posttranslational modifications. Earlier studies have reported that Aurora B phosphorylation of p53 leads to loss of its transcriptional activity, subsequently leading to its ubiquitin‐mediated proteasomal degradation. To decipher the fate of structural and functional stature of p53 upon phosphorylation by Aurora B, we have generated five phosphomimetic mutants of p53 core domain and characterized their biophysicochemical properties. Our biophysical studies show that the T211E, S215E, and S269E mutants are thermally unstable and show a higher propensity toward aggregation than WT with the loss of DNA binding except for S183E. These results indicate structural and functional destabilization of p53 upon phosphomimetic substitution, which provides a molecular basis toward understanding the process that drives the fate of p53 upon phosphorylation by Aurora B kinase. © 2018 IUBMB Life, 70(10):1023–1031, 2018
Malic enzyme 2 as a potential therapeutic drug target for cancer
Authors: Sarfraz Iqra , Rasul Azhar , Hussain Ghulam , Hussain Syed Makhdoom , Ahmad Matloob , Nageen Bushra , Jabeen Farhat , Selamoglu Zeliha , Ali Muhammad
Published: August 2018

Reprogrammed metabolic profile is a biochemical fingerprint of cancerous cells, which represents one of the “hallmarks of cancer.” The aberrant expression pattern of enzymatic machineries orchestrates metabolic activities into a platform that ultimately promotes cellular growth, survival, and proliferation. The NADP(+)‐dependent mitochondrial malic enzyme 2 (ME2) has been widely appreciated due to its function as a provider of pyruvate and reducing power to the cell for biosynthesis of fatty acids and nucleotides along with maintenance of redox balance. Multiple lines of evidences have indicated that ME2 is a bonafide therapeutic target and novel biomarker which plays critical role during tumorigenesis. The objective of this review is to provide an update on the cancer‐specific role of ME2 in order to explore its potential for therapeutic opportunities. Furthermore, we have discussed the potential of genetic and pharmacological inhibitors of ME2 in the light of previous research work for therapeutic advancements in cancer treatment. It is contemplated that additional investigations should focus on the use of ME2 inhibitors in combinational therapies as rational combinations of metabolic inhibitors and chemotherapy may have the ability to cure cancer. © 2018 IUBMB Life, 70(11):1076–1083, 2018
I Will Just SWH It: The Learning Lens of Teachers as They Engage in the Exploration of Argument‐Based Inquiry
Authors: Hand Brian , Norton‐Meier Lori
Published: August 2018

This department focuses on literacy leaders, including school and instructional leaders, teachers, and external partners, who are working to improve outcomes for adolescent and adult learners in a wide range of education settings. Columns investigate the challenges and complexities inherent in such work and share lessons learned, impactful strategies and approaches, and promising pathways forward.
Practitioner Research: Inquiry That Impacts Adolescent and Adult Literacy Learning and Teaching
Authors: Marsh Josephine Peyton , Gonzalez Deborah
Published: August 2018

This forum highlights research that literacy teachers, students, and others can explore, use, or adapt as they provide literacy instruction and develop related programs and research agendas.
Congenital absence of the portal vein: translated version
Authors: Sanada Yukihiro , Mizuta Koichi
Published: August 2018

Congenital portosystemic shunt (CPS) is classified into type I (congenital absence of the portal vein) and type II, depending on the presence or absence of the intrahepatic portal vein. Reports still exist on cases in which psychiatric diseases or mental retardation was diagnosed or cases in which diagnosis and treatment are not performed until severe pulmonary complications occur, indicating the need to recognize CPS. Herein, we reviewed epidemiology, etiology, classification, symptom, diagnosis, and treatment based on clinical view points of CPS. For clinical view points, classification according to (1) the presence or absence of the intrahepatic portal venous system (IPVS) and (2) the extrahepatic or intrahepatic of shunt sites, facilitates the understanding of pathophysiological conditions and is useful in selecting a treatment for symptomatic CPS. Radiological and pathological examinations are important in IPVS evaluations, and IPVS evaluations are currently essential to make diagnoses by portography with balloon occlusion and liver biopsy. Symptomatic CPS (hepatic nodular lesions, portosystemic encephalopathy, and pulmonary complications, etc.) is an indication of treatment by shunt closure, but an indication of treatment for asymptomatic CPS is the challenge going forward.
Ridge preservation following tooth extraction using mineralized freeze‐dried bone allograft compared to mineralized solvent‐dehydrated bone allograft: A randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Corning Patrick J. , Mealey Brian L.
Published: August 2018

Background

Freeze dried bone allograft (FDBA) and solvent dehydrated bone allograft (SDBA) are both commonly used in alveolar ridge preservation. Previous studies have suggested SDBA may have advantages over FDBA due to a unique processing method. The primary objective of this study was to histologically compare the healing outcome between FDBA and SDBA when used for ridge preservation. Changes in morphometric ridge parameters were evaluated as a secondary outcome.

Methods

Forty‐four patients requiring extraction and ridge preservation were randomized into two groups: FDBA (control group) or SDBA (test group). Patients returned 12 weeks post‐extraction and ridge preservation for implant placement. A bone core was taken in the planned implant osteotomy site and evaluated histomorphometrically to determine the percentage of vital bone, residual graft material, and connective/other tissue. Changes in clinical ridge dimensions were also evaluated for patients in both treatment groups.

Results

The FDBA group showed a mean of 24.08% vital bone, 22.96% residual graft material, and 52.95% CT/other. The SDBA group showed a mean of 27.19% vital bone, 23.38% residual graft material, and 49.41% CT/other. No statistical differences were found between groups in the mean outcomes for histologic parameters or in dimensional change of the alveolar ridge.

Conclusion

This study provides the first histologic comparison between the wound healing of FDBA and SDBA over a 12‐week healing period in a ridge preservation application. The findings suggest no significant benefit or drawback with the use of either FDBA or SDBA when comparing histomorphometric parameters or clinical dimensional changes.
Effects of early‐successional shrubland management on breeding wood thrush populations
Authors: Schlossberg Scott , King David I. , Destefano Stephen , Hartley Mitch
Published: August 2018

In forested landscapes, creation of habitat for early‐successional shrubland birds is controversial because of perceived conflicts with the conservation of mature‐forest birds. Nonetheless, many mature‐forest birds, especially fledglings, readily use early‐successional stands during the post‐breeding period. This suggests that for mature‐forest birds, creating habitat for early‐successional birds could involve a tradeoff: reduced abundance and nest survival due to the loss of nesting habitat versus enhanced fledgling survival in early‐successional stands. Our research addressed the effects of the creation of early‐successional habitat for shrubland birds on wood thrushes (Hylocichla mustelina) in western Massachusetts, USA. We compared wood thrush abundance, nest success, fecundity, and post‐fledging survival in landscapes with high (∼20%) or low (∼1%) cover of early‐successional stands suitable for shrubland birds. We found no differences in nest success, fecundity, and post‐fledging survival between the 2 types of landscapes. Abundance of breeders, however, was significantly greater on the sites with high cover of early‐successional habitat. We conclude that in forested landscapes, creation of early‐successional habitat at levels recommended for the conservation of shrubland birds is compatible with viable wood thrush populations. © 2018 The Wildlife Society.
Sustained quality‐of‐life improvements over 10 years after deep brain stimulation for dystonia
Authors: Hogg Elliot , During Emmanuel , E. Tan Echo , Athreya Kishore , Eskenazi Jonathan , Wertheimer Jeffrey , Mamelak Adam N. , Alterman Ron L. , Tagliati Michele
Published: August 2018

Background: Little is known about the quality of life of people with dystonia and DBS beyond 5 years. The objectives of this study were (1) to examine the long‐term quality‐of‐life outcomes in a large cohort of people with dystonia and DBS, (2) to determine the incidence of stimulation‐induced parkinsonism, and (3) to elucidate the potential long‐term cognitive impact of DBS in this cohort.

Methods: Fifty‐four subjects with dystonia and DBS for more than 5 years were contacted via social media and were offered to complete a quality‐of‐life survey comparing current‐day life and life prior to DBS. The primary study outcomes were the Short Form survey, a parkinsonian symptoms questionnaire, the Telephone Montreal Cognitive Assessment, and the Measurement of Every Day Cognition.

Results: Thirty‐seven of 54 subjects consented to the study. Average age was 39.7 ± 16.6 years, 16 were female, and 23 were DYT1+. Average time from implantation was 10.5 years. Average total Short Form survey scores improved, from 43.7 pre‐DBS to 69.5 current day (P < 0.0005). Mean total self‐reported parkinsonian symptom score was 13.8 ± 14.7, with worsening balance and hypophonia the most common. Average Telephone Montreal Cognitive Assessment was 20.1 ± 1.6, with 3 of 29 scores (10.3%) in the impaired range (score of 18 or less). Average total Every Day Cognition score was 1.25 ± 0.35, with 3 subjects (10.3%) scoring in the range of impaired cognition (>1.81).

Conclusions: DBS for dystonia results in long‐term quality‐of‐life improvements that persist on average 10 years or more after surgery. The prevalence of stimulation‐induced parkinsonism and cognitive impairment is low. © 2018 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Patient self‐reported utility of hand surgery online patient education materials
Authors: Roberts Heather J. , Zhang Dafang , Earp Brandon E. , Blazar Philip , Dyer George S.M.
Published: August 2018

Objective: Online patient education materials in orthopaedic surgery are consistently written above the recommended grade level. However, no algorithmic measure of readability has been validated in a medical context. The primary objective of the present study was to determine whether Flesch–Kincaid readability scores correlate with patient self‐reported utility of online education materials from the American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH).

Methods: This was a prospective survey study of 35 patients with one of five common upper extremity diagnoses. Study outcomes included self‐reported utility, understandability, clarity, novelty and scope of the information of the ASSH online patient education material. Flesch–Kincaid Grade Level and Flesch Reading Ease were calculated for each article and correlated with self‐reported utility.

Results: The majority of patients found the articles useful, understandable and clear. Self‐reported utility was not correlated with Flesch–Kincaid Grade Level (ρ = 0.017) or Flesch Reading Ease (ρ = −0.020). Patients with high school education or below found the articles less useful and more difficult to understand than those with post‐secondary education.

Conclusions: Flesch–Kincaid readability scores do not correlate with self‐reported utility of ASSH online patient education materials. In the evaluation of these materials, metrics other than algorithmic readability scores should be considered.
What is the most effective verbal instruction for correctly contracting the pelvic floor muscles?
Authors: Ben Ami Noa , Dar Gali
Published: August 2018

Aims

The purpose of the present study was to compare the effectiveness of four different verbal instructions in correctly contracting pelvic floor muscles (PFMs), examined as a displacement of the pelvic floor by transabdominal ultrasound.

Methods

Fifty‐six female undergraduate physiotherapy students, mean age 24.2 ± 2.5 years, participated in the study. A 6 MHz 35‐mm curved linear array ultrasound transducer (Mindray M5) was placed in the transverse plane, suprapubically over the lower abdomen and angled at 15‐30° from the vertical depending. The participants were randomly divided into two groups: posterior and anterior. Each group received four different verbal instructions as to how to correctly contract the PFMs. Only one verbal instruction differed between the groups: “squeeze the anus” (posterior group) compared with “stop the flow of urine” (anterior group).

Results

In the posterior group, 27 participants (90%) performed a correct contraction compared with 17 participants (65%) in the anterior group, thus demonstrating a statistically significant difference in favor of the “anus” instruction (P = 0.025). Forty‐seven participants (84%) exhibited a downward movement during the verbal instruction combining transversus abdominis contractions with breathing, that is, “take a moderate breath in, let the breath out then draw in and lift your pelvic floor.”

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that the most effective verbal instruction for correctly contracting the PFMs among 56 physiotherapy students was the posterior instruction of “squeezing the anus.” The majority (90%) of participants succeeded in correctly contracting the PFMs.
The business case for sustainability in retrospect:A Scandinavian institutionalism perspective on the role of expert conferences in shaping the emerging “CSR and corporate sustainability space”
Authors: Breitbarth Tim , Schaltegger Stefan , Mahon John
Published: August 2018

This paper is concerned with the rise and, in retrospect, successful “positioning” of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and corporate sustainability as a management idea. It answers to calls that more research is required into the “business case for sustainability,” especially the link between rhetoric and reality. We allow for a narrative‐driven and dynamic perspective to frame the analysis of the discourse, rhetoric, and arguments in use during the emergence of “modern CSR” in Europe in the early 2000s. On the one hand, it shows that the European Union/Commission acted as an “enabler” of business case rhetoric. On the other hand, empirical evidence from two expert conferences series in Germany 2004–2008 leads to the conclusion that a wide coalition of interested parties continuously and progressively filled, shaped, and energized the early “CSR and corporate sustainability space” with presenting CSR as a rationale and progressive (management) idea.
Social skills interventions for survivors of pediatric brain tumors: A review and reformulation
Authors: Willard Victoria W.
Published: August 2018

Youth with brain tumors are at risk for late effects. Families report that survivors’ difficulties with peer relationships are among the most distressing and impactful on quality of life. As such, interventions have been designed to improve social functioning. The objective was to review the nine published social skills intervention studies for survivors of brain tumors with regard to study design, participation rates, skills targeted, assessment measures, and outcomes. Results of this review were used to discuss future directions, with a focus on alternative approaches to inclusion criteria (including developmental considerations and screening for weaknesses), intervention timing and modality.
The effects of the psychodrama in instilling empathy and self‐awareness: A pilot study
Authors: Dogan Turkan
Published: August 2018

This pilot study investigated the effects of psychodrama on the counseling skills (mainly empathy) and on increasing the self‐awareness of 23 counseling undergraduate students. Participants attended 12 psychodrama sessions over 3 months. Data were gathered by using the Empathic Tendency Scale and a personal information form. The study used the mixed method research design, which combines qualitative and quantitative methods. The quantitative aspect of the study involved the use of pretest–posttest experimental and control group design with random assignment, while the qualitative aspect utilized the methods of case study, observation, and interview. The quantitative and qualitative results showed that psychodrama increased students’ empathy, counseling skills, and self‐awareness.
Estimation on the Safe Storage Temperature of Nitrocellulose with Different Humectants
Authors: Wei Rui Chao , Huang Shen Shi , Wang Zhi , He Yu , Yuen Richard , Wang Jian
Published: August 2018

In order to estimate the safe storage temperatures of nitrocellulose (NC) with different humectants (water, ethanol, and isopropanol), non‐isothermal experiments were performed by a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC). Thermodynamic parameters were simulated by thermal safety software (TSS). Comparison of autocatalytic simulation and nth order simulation was conducted. Also, Kissiger‐Akahira‐Sunose (KAS) and Ozawa‐Flynn‐Wall (OFW) methods were employed to validate the simulated activation energy E, whose results indicated that the average E calculated by KAS and OFW methods is lower than that simulated by autocatalytic simulation. Finally, the critical temperatures of time to maximum rate (TMR) and time to conversion limit (TCL) were estimated. The results show that the critical temperature of pure NC is higher than that of NC with humectants, which indicates that NC with humectants possess a higher thermal instability at an identical temperature. In addition, to ensure the effectiveness of NC products, storage temperatures of pure NC and NC‐humectants were also simulated.
Nanostructure‐Enhanced Photoconductive Terahertz Emission and Detection
Authors: Yardimci Nezih Tolga , Jarrahi Mona
Published: August 2018

Photoconductive antennas are commonly used for terahertz wave generation and detection. However, their relatively low radiation power and detection sensitivity often place limitations on the signal‐to‐noise ratio and operation bandwidth of terahertz imaging and spectroscopy systems. Several different techniques are attempted to address these limitations. The most promising ones take advantage of the unique tools provided by nanotechnology. In this review, the recent nanotechnology‐enabled advances in photoconductive antennas, which use nanostructures, such as optical nanoantennas, plasmonic structures, and optical nanocavities, to increase the interaction of the optical pump beam with the photoconductive semiconductor, are discussed. All of these techniques are experimentally demonstrated to be efficient tools for enhancing the performance of photoconductive antennas for terahertz wave generation and detection.
The state‐of‐the‐art in software development effort estimation
Authors: Gautam Swarnima Singh , Singh Vrijendra
Published: August 2018

The software developers and researchers have been facing difficulties regarding software development effort estimation (SDEE) since 1960s. Both overestimation and underestimation are problematic for future software development. The software engineering field is continuously adapting new technologies and development methodologies, so there is always a requirement to have an accurate SDEE method that can cater the needs of continually growing software industry. The major purpose of this state‐of‐the‐art review is to provide an additional insight of existing SDEE studies while considering five points of reference: techniques used to construct models, strengths and weaknesses of different models, availability of benchmark data sets, data set characteristics, generalization ability of models. We have performed a comprehensive review of SDEE studies published in the period 1981‐2016. We have defined a new scheme of categorizing existing SDEE models. We have found that a majority of available data sets do not include complete information of projects, which misleads the direction of research. To compare SDEE models, we recommend to use same data sets while focusing on specific aspects of accuracy as none of SDEE studies has yet been able to compare all the existing models over same data sets while considering same aspects of accuracy.
Effects of Starch From Five Different Botanical Sources on the Fermentation and Gelatinization Properties of Starch–Gluten Model Doughs
Authors: Zhang Duqin , Mu Taihua , Sun Hongnan
Published: August 2018

Wheat, corn, tapioca, sweet potato, and potato starches are independently mixed into starch–gluten model doughs containing 15% (w/w) vital gluten. Fermentation properties, including gas production, and retention capacities, are studied by recording dough height and gas release kinetics through rheofermentometer. Gelatinization properties are investigated by recording changes of heat transition and dynamic moduli with temperature using a differential scanning calorimeter and control stress rheometer, respectively. Wheat starch (WS)–gluten dough has the greatest total gas production (500 mL) and gas retention coefficient (87.6%), lowest viscosity, and highest dough structure hardening during gelatinization, while potato starch–gluten dough has the smallest total gas production (85 mL) and gas retention coefficient (82.1%), highest viscosity, and lowest structure hardening during gelatinization. In addition, the ultrastructure and freezable and non‐freezable water contents are determined to investigate the structural properties of the starch–gluten model doughs. WS–gluten dough shows the most consistent and uniform ultrastructure, and highest non‐freezable water content (42.60%) among all the starch–gluten model doughs. This suggests that WS–gluten dough exhibits a better processing performance compares to the other four starch–gluten model doughs.
An exploratory study on Turkish EFL learners’ readiness for autonomy and attitudes toward self‐access centers
Authors: Şenbayrak Mürüvvet , Ortaçtepe Deniz , Trimble Kimberly
Published: August 2018

This study investigated attitudes toward self‐access centers (SACs) and readiness for autonomous language learning among Turkish learners of English as a foreign language (EFL). It also explored whether learners’ attitudes toward the SACs and their readiness for autonomy were related to frequency of SAC use. The study was carried out with 250 Turkish EFL learners at a preparatory language school at a state university in Ankara, Turkey. The researchers employed a SAC attitude questionnaire and a learner autonomy readiness questionnaire to collect data. The results revealed a statistically significant difference between the attitudes of infrequent users and regular SAC users, suggesting that learners’ attitudes toward the SAC and the frequency of SAC use were interrelated. The findings of the study also show that Turkish EFL learners were ready to take responsibility for their own learning despite their inclination to accept the teacher's power and authority in the learning process. Additionally, the SAC users were not necessarily the autonomous learners who made decisions about their own learning. The findings suggest the necessity of training EFL learners for independent learning and raising their awareness about the advantages of SACs so as to increase the effective use of the centers.
“This worry machine”: The impact of executive orders on ELL teachers
Authors: Petrie Gina Mikel , Darragh Janine J.
Published: August 2018

This research study sought to answer the question: What are the immediate emotional impacts of recent executive orders on teachers of English language learners in the United States? Eight teachers of K–12 English language learners (ELLs) were interviewed in the weeks following the signing of Executive Orders 13,767 and 13,769 in 2017, which attempted to limit refugee resettlement and immigration. Through thematic analysis of the data, it was found that the executive orders set a process in motion in which ELLs were encouraged to feel fear. Teachers experienced emotion labor (Hochschild, ) as they attempted to buffer the messages of fear and mitigation of that emotion labor when they felt support from colleagues. The study concludes that teachers and school leaders should address ELLs’ experiences of fear arising from a context of anti‐immigrant sentiment and demonstrate care for those teachers who most closely work with them.
Space on Earth
Authors: Gaines J. R.
Published: August 2018

We are enjoying a renaissance in space travel with the emergence of several commercial rocket companies. These companies, such as SpaceX, Blue Origin and others have tremendous backlogs of trips to low earth orbit to deploy a wide range of satellites. Any device going to space needs to be tested on earth under conditions which simulate the hazardous environment it must endure. Accordingly, a fleet of thermal vacuum systems (TVAC) is being deployed globally to provide the proper test conditions. Contamination in these systems, from the components used to make devices like cubesats and planetary rovers, as well as poor vacuum cleanliness practices, emit enormous gas loads which may swap the vacuum system as well as create thin film deposits on surfaces within the test chamber. Strategies to mitigate these conditions are discussed.
Novel coatings for unique applications
Authors: Nielsen Lars Pleth
Published: August 2018

In the present article three different coatings systems are discussed based on reactive and non‐reactive sputtering processes utilizing HiPIMS, pulsed DC and DC magnetron sputtering. The HiPIMS platform was used to develop a very hard TiB2 coating with a low residual stress level. Pulsed DC magnetron sputtering was used to deposit 50 μm thick amorphous Al2O3 coating. Finally DC magnetron sputtering was used to deposit a Sr‐Ti‐O coating capable of releasing Sr facilitating accelerated bone formation and implant ingrowth.
Complexes of Trimethylalane with Bis[bis(pyrazolyl)methyl]‐Substituted Ligands
Authors: Flerlage Hannah , Krieck Sven , Görls Helmar , Westerhausen Matthias
Published: August 2018

Tetradentate 1,1,4,4‐tetrakis(pyrazolyl)butane (1a) with a flexible backbone and 4,6‐bis[bis(pyrazolyl)methyl]dibenzofuran (1b) with a rigid linker between the bis(pyrazolyl)methyl groups readily form the corresponding 1:2 adducts 2a and 2b with trimethylalane. Coordination of AlMe3 to the pyrazolyl bases shows a negligible influence on the aromatic character of these π‐systems. In solution only one set of resonances is observed for the pyrazolyl substituents verifying a fast exchange equilibrium of AlMe3 between the pyrazolyl Lewis bases.
Synthesis and Characterization of a μ‐Oxo‐Bridged Diferric Complex: An Attempt to Influence the Configuration by Changing the Spacer
Authors: Aschenbrenner Martin , Stammler Anja , Bögge Hartmut , Glaser Thorsten
Published: August 2018

The μ‐oxo‐bridged diferric complex [(susanPr){FeIIICl(μ‐O)FeIIICl}](ClO4)2 was synthesized and characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, elemental analysis, FT‐IR, UV/Vis/NIR, and Mössbauer spectroscopies as well as magnetic and electrochemical measurements. The properties are compared to the corresponding values for the complex [(susan){FeIIICl(μ‐O)FeIIICl}](ClO4)2, which exhibits a central ethylene spacer, whereas [(susanPr){FeIIICl(μ‐O)FeIIICl}](ClO4)2 has a propylene spacer. Both complexes exhibit a trans configuration of the two terminal chloride ligands. This configuration induces more steric demand in the case of the propylene spacer, which results in a rotation of the two octahedral units along the Fe–(μ‐O)–Fe axis and a tilting of the Fe–N bonds of the diamine spacer. The iron bond lengths are only slightly elongated by the steric demand of the propylene spacer, which is reflected by almost no change in the Mössbauer spectrum. However, the UV/Vis/NIR spectra show a stronger ligand field for [(susanPr){FeIIICl(μ‐O)FeIIICl}](ClO4)2. The slightly longer iron bond lengths result in less electron donation, which is reflected by an anodic shift of 120 mV for the oxidation of the complex. This comparison provides more information on the variation of the properties of the diferric complexes by slight changes in the second coordination sphere.
Resolutions of nilpotent orbit closures via Coulomb branches of 3-dimensional $$ \mathcal{N}=4 $$ theories
Authors: Hanany Amihay , Sperling Marcus
Published: August 2018

Abstract

The Coulomb branches of certain 3-dimensional

$$ \mathcal{N}=4 $$

N
=
4

quiver gauge theories are closures of nilpotent orbits of classical or exceptional Lie algebras. The monopole formula, as Hilbert series of the associated Coulomb branch chiral ring, has been successful in describing the singular hyper-Kähler structure. By means of the monopole formula with background charges for flavour symmetries, which realises real mass deformations, we study the resolution properties of all (characteristic) height two nilpotent orbits. As a result, the monopole formula correctly reproduces (i) the existence of a symplectic resolution, (ii) the form of the symplectic resolution, and (iii) the Mukai flops in the case of multiple resolutions. Moreover, the (characteristic) height two nilpotent orbit closures are resolved by cotangent bundles of Hermitian symmetric spaces and the unitary Coulomb branch quiver realisations exhaust all the possibilities.
The dispirited case of gauged U(1)B − L dark matter
Authors: Escudero Miguel , Witte Samuel J. , Rius Nuria
Published: August 2018

Abstract

We explore the constraints and phenomenology of possibly the simplest scenario that could account at the same time for the active neutrino masses and the dark matter in the Universe within a gauged U(1)
B − L
symmetry, namely right-handed neutrino dark matter. We find that null searches from lepton and hadron colliders require dark matter with a mass below 900 GeV to annihilate through a resonance. Additionally, the very strong constraints from high-energy dilepton searches fully exclude the model for 150 GeV <

$$ {m}_{Z^{\prime }} $$

m

Z
′

< 3 TeV. We further explore the phenomenology in the high mass region (i.e. masses ≳

$$ \mathcal{O} $$

O

(1) TeV) and highlight theoretical arguments, related to the appearance of a Landau pole or an instability of the scalar potential, disfavoring large portions of this parameter space. Collectively, these considerations illustrate that a minimal extension of the Standard Model via a local U(1)
B − L
symmetry with a viable thermal dark matter candidate is difficult to achieve without fine-tuning. We conclude by discussing possible extensions of the model that relieve tension with collider constraints by reducing the gauge coupling required to produce the correct relic abundance.
Characterization of Re-admission and Emergency Department Visits within 90 Days Following Lower-Extremity Arthroplasty
Authors: Huerfano Elina , Gonzalez Della Valle Alejandro , Shanaghan Kate , Girardi Federico , Memtsoudis Stavros , Liu Jiabin
Published: August 2018

Background

Acute care events including emergency department (ED) visits and unscheduled inpatient re-admissions following lower-extremity arthroplasty are not fully understood.

Question/Purposes

The purpose of this study was to characterize acute care events occurring after discharge in patients who received a lower-extremity arthroplasty: the incidence, timing, and risk factors of inpatient admission and ED visits within 90 days of discharge.

Methods

The New York State Inpatient and Emergency Department Databases were used to identify patients who underwent elective total knee arthroplasty (TKA) or total hip arthroplasty (THA) from 2009 to 2013 (124, 234 and 76, 411 patients, respectively). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine the predictors of and the most frequent reasons for unscheduled acute care within 90 days of discharge.

Results

Unscheduled acute care was needed in 13.79% of patients (8.81% of inpatient re-admissions and 4.98% of ED visits), most often in the first week after discharge (61.05% of all inpatient re-admissions and 20.46% of all ED visits). Most of these visits were for musculoskeletal pain, peri-prosthetic joint or wound infection, cardiac complications, blood transfusion, psychiatric events, mechanical complications, and deep vein thrombosis. Predictors for the need for acute care after TKA included African American and Hispanic race or ethnicity, Medicaid coverage, and neuraxial anesthesia. Predictors for the need for acute care after THA included older age (over 85 years), African American race, and Medicaid coverage.

Conclusion

We identified demographic and procedure-related variables associated with an increased risk of ED visits and inpatient re-admissions after TKA or THA. Understanding these variables will contribute to improved care quality.
A Bayesian hierarchical model for analyzing methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing data
Authors: Zhang Minzhe , Li Qiwei , Xie Yang
Published: August 2018

Background

The recently emerged technology of methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeRIP‐seq) sheds light on the study of RNA epigenetics. This new bioinformatics question calls for effective and robust peaking calling algorithms to detect mRNA methylation sites from MeRIP‐seq data.

Methods

We propose a Bayesian hierarchical model to detect methylation sites from MeRIP‐seq data. Our modeling approach includes several important characteristics. First, it models the zero‐inflated and over‐dispersed counts by deploying a zero‐inflated negative binomial model. Second, it incorporates a hidden Markov model (HMM) to account for the spatial dependency of neighboring read enrichment. Third, our Bayesian inference allows the proposed model to borrow strength in parameter estimation, which greatly improves the model stability when dealing with MeRIP‐seq data with a small number of replicates. We use Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) algorithms to simultaneously infer the model parameters in a de novo fashion. The R Shiny demo is available at the authors' website and the R/C++ code is available at https://github.com/liqiwei2000/BaySeqPeak.

Results

In simulation studies, the proposed method outperformed the competing methods exomePeak and MeTPeak, especially when an excess of zeros were present in the data. In real MeRIP‐seq data analysis, the proposed method identified methylation sites that were more consistent with biological knowledge, and had better spatial resolution compared to the other methods.

Conclusions

In this study, we develop a Bayesian hierarchical model to identify methylation peaks in MeRIP‐seq data. The proposed method has a competitive edge over existing methods in terms of accuracy, robustness and spatial resolution.
Factor structure and measurement invariance of a neuropsychological test battery designed for assessment of cognitive functioning in older Mexican Americans
Authors: Gavett Brandon E. , Stypulkowski Katie , Johnson Leigh , Hall James , O'Bryant Sid E.
Published: August 2018

Introduction

The present study sought to investigate the measurement invariance of commonly used neuropsychological tests in an ethnically (Hispanic vs. non‐Hispanic) and linguistically (Spanish vs. English) diverse sample.

Methods

Participants were 736 middle‐aged and older adults (MAge = 62.1, SD = 9.1) assessed at baseline. Measurement invariance testing was performed using multiple‐group confirmatory factor analysis.

Results

A five‐factor model (memory, attention/executive functioning/processing speed, language, visuospatial, and motor) fit the data well (CFI = 0.979, RMSEA = 0.047) and the composite reliability of the factors ranged from .76 (visuospatial) to .97 (motor). The five‐factor model was found to possess strict measurement invariance for ethnicity and language without a decrement in fit compared to a strong (scalar) invariance model (ΔCFI = .000, ΔRMSEA = .002).

Discussion

These results indicate that a five‐factor model is suitable for estimating cognitive functioning in Mexican Americans and non‐Hispanic whites without bias by ethnicity or language.
A systematic review of structural MRI biomarkers in autism spectrum disorder: A machine learning perspective
Authors: Pagnozzi Alex M. , Conti Eugenia , Calderoni Sara , Fripp Jurgen , Rose Stephen E.
Published: August 2018

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects approximately 1% of the population and leads to impairments in social interaction, communication and restricted, repetitive behaviours. Establishing robust neuroimaging biomarkers of ASD using structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an important step for diagnosing and tailoring treatment, particularly early in life when interventions can have the greatest effect. However currently, there is mixed findings on the structural brain changes associated with autism. Therefore in this systematic review, recent (post‐2007), high‐resolution (3 T) MRI studies investigating brain morphology associated with ASD have been collated to identify robust neuroimaging biomarkers of ASD. A systematic search was conducted on three databases; PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus, resulting in 123 reviewed articles. Patients with ASD were observed to have increased whole brain volume, particularly under 6 years of age. Other consistent changes observed in ASD patients include increased volume in the frontal and temporal lobes, increased cortical thickness in the frontal lobe, increased surface area and cortical gyrification, and increased cerebrospinal fluid volume, as well as reduced cerebellum volume and reduced corpus callosum volume, compared to typically developing controls. Findings were inconsistent regarding the developmental trajectory of brain volume and cortical thinning with age in ASD, as well as potential volume differences in the white matter, hippocampus, amygdala, thalamus and basal ganglia. To elucidate these inconsistencies, future studies should look towards aggregating MRI data from multiple sites or available repositories to avoid underpowered studies, as well as utilising methods which quantify larger‐scale image features to reduce the number of statistical tests performed, and hence risk of false positive findings. Additionally, studies should look to perform a thorough validation strategy, to ensure generalisability of study findings, as well as look to leverage the improved image resolution of 3 T scanning to identify subtle brain changes related to ASD.
The ASA at 60: Advocacy in an Age of Tyranny
Authors: Pitcher M. Anne
Published: August 2018

Although the sixtieth anniversary of the ASA’s founding offers an occasion to celebrate the association’s accomplishments, it also coincides with a historical moment of resurgent authoritarianism, growing intolerance, and renascent nativism. Democratic institutions in the United States and abroad are under attack; bigotry, injustice, and incivility have become re-energized. This article reflects on the discourses, spaces, and technologies employed by Africans to contest the multiple expressions of political exclusion on the continent over the last sixty years. It finds inspiration and lessons that might guide us as we develop our own forms of political advocacy in this illiberal age.