bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying community priorities for neighborhood livability: Engaging neighborhood residents to facilitate community assessment
Authors: Reyes David , Meyer Karen
Published: October 2019

Identifying community‐driven priorities to improve health outcomes is crucial toward achieving health equity. Seldom are communities experiencing health disparities included in community health assessment (CHA) and health improvement planning efforts (Pennel, McLeroy, Burdine, Matarrita‐Cascante, & Wang, 2017). The purpose of this project was to conduct a CHA using a socio‐ecological framework and community engagement (CE) process. In this paper we describe an exemplar engaging local residents as community facilitators to assess indicators of neighborhood livability, challenges and lessons learned, and implications for public health and community/public health nursing. Community residents were trained to facilitate focus groups and participated in analyzing these data. Data analysis yielded five neighborhood livability indicators and priorities reflecting the social determinants of health. Engaging community residents as stakeholders in CHA and health improvement planning is critical for identifying structural factors affecting neighborhood livability and priorities to improve health and well‐being. Public health and health care system partnerships employing inclusive CE practices are necessary to improve overall population health outcomes. Public health nursing's role as strategy and system leaders can contribute toward the success of these cross‐sector partnerships with diverse communities and populations.
Unravelling the structure and function of the petal appendages in the tribe Schwenckieae (Solanaceae)
Authors: Paucar J. O. A. , Isaias R. M. S. , Stehmann J. R.
Published: October 2019

The tribe Schwenckieae (Solanaceae) is characterised by the presence of appendages on the corolla, a diagnostic trait for the group. These appendages constitute a median distal projection of the three‐lobed petal and occur in the genera Melananthus and Schwenckia but are absent in Heteranthia.

We investigated the micromorphology and anatomical structure of the appendages and lateral petal lobes of Schwenckia americana (two varieties), S. angustifolia, S. curviflora and S. novaveneciana, and Melananthus fasciculatus. We also performed histochemical tests to determine if the appendages are involved in the production of volatiles, acting as a fragrance secretory structure (osmophore).

The appendages have a uniseriate epidermis, whose cells store phenolics and lipids. The parenchyma is starch‐rich just prior to anthesis in all species studied. The sensory test and anatomical analyses identified scent‐secreting tissues, not only in the appendages, but also in the lateral petal lobes, whose cells are papillose with a sculptured surface. The α‐naphthol p‐phenylenediamine (NADI) reaction detected volatile (essential oils) compounds in S. americana var. americana and S. americana var. angustifolia.

We demonstrated the secretory tissues and the production of lipids in the corolla appendages of Schwenckia and Melananthus, which indicate their osmogenic function and probable scent emission to attract pollinators.
Genetic structure and population diversity in the wheat sharp eyespot pathogen Rhizoctonia cerealis in the Willamette Valley, Oregon, USA
Authors: Liu J. , Mundt C. C.
Published: October 2019

Wheat sharp eyespot, caused by the soilborne basidiomycete fungus Rhizoctonia cerealis group D subgroup I (AG‐DI), is a common disease of wheat stems that has increased in global importance in recent years. The disease caused a severe and extensive epidemic throughout the Willamette Valley of Oregon in 2014 and has remained one of the most important wheat diseases in this region subsequently. The population structure of this pathogen is still not well understood. In this study, 572 pure cultures of R. cerealis AG‐DI were isolated from five commercial fields and two experimental fields in the Willamette Valley, Oregon, in the spring of 2017 and 2018. Population structure studies were conducted using six microsatellite markers. Polymorphisms were observed at all six loci, and all seven subpopulations showed moderate gene and genotype diversity. Most of the loci were in Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium in the subpopulations, the entire population combined over locations and five of seven subpopulations were in gametic equilibrium, and the AMOVA and Mantel’s test demonstrated no differentiation among subpopulations. Though direct evidence is currently lacking, these results suggest that the sexual stage of the pathogen may be having a significant impact on pathogen population structure, and that the presence of basidiospores could be contributing to the extensive spread of this disease in the Willamette Valley in recent years.
Ethnic differences in singleton preterm birth in England and Wales, 2006‐12: Analysis of national routinely collected data
Authors: Li Yangmei , Quigley Maria A. , Macfarlane Alison , Jayaweera Hiranthi , Kurinczuk Jennifer J. , Hollowell Jennifer
Published: October 2019

Background

Data recorded at birth and death registration in England and Wales have been routinely linked with data recorded at birth notification since 2006. These provide scope for detailed analyses on ethnic differences in preterm birth (PTB).

Objectives

We aimed to investigate ethnic differences in PTB and degree of prematurity in England and Wales, taking into account maternal sociodemographic characteristics and to further explore the contribution of mother's country of birth to these ethnic differences in PTB.

Methods

We analysed PTB and degree of prematurity by ethnic group, using routinely collected and linked data for all singleton live births in England and Wales, 2006‐2012. Logistic regression was used to adjust for mother's age, marital status/registration type, area deprivation and mother's country of birth.

Results

In the 4 634 932 births analysed, all minority ethnic groups except ‘Other White’ had significantly higher odds of PTB compared with White British babies (ORs between 1.04‐1.25); highest odds were in Black Caribbean, Indian, Bangladeshi and Pakistani groups. Ethnic differences in PTB tended to be greater at earlier gestational ages. In all ethnic groups, odds of PTB were lower for babies whose mothers were born outside the UK.

Conclusions

In England and Wales, Black Caribbean, Indian, Bangladeshi, Pakistani and Black African babies all have significantly increased odds of being born preterm compared with White British babies. Bangladeshis apart, these groups are particularly at risk of extremely PTB. In all ethnic groups, the odds of PTB are lower for babies whose mothers were born outside the UK. These ethnic differences do not appear to be wholly explained by area deprivation or other sociodemographic characteristics.
Intradermal reactivity to two concentrations of pollen extracts in atopic dogs
Authors: Layne Elizabeth A.
Published: October 2019

Background

Intradermal test (IDT) is used widely for determination of allergens to include in allergen‐specific immunotherapy (AIT). The optimal concentration of allergen solutions used for testing has not been established in atopic dogs. Inadequate concentrations could lead to falsely negative test results and lack of inclusion of important allergens in AIT.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To compare IDT reactivity to two concentrations of five pollen extracts and determine the effect on ASIT prescription.

Animals

Atopic dogs (n = 67) had IDT results including all of the allergens of interest.

Methods and materials

Medical records from a veterinary teaching hospital were reviewed for all atopic dogs undergoing IDT over a three year period. In addition to the hospital's standard IDT concentration of 1,000 PNU/mL for pollen allergens, five pollen allergens of higher concentration (3,000–8,000 PNU/mL) had been added at the beginning of that period. The IDT scores for the standard test concentration of each of the five allergens were compared to the scores for the higher concentration.

Results

Positive reactions occurred much more commonly to the higher test concentration for each of the paired allergens (P < 0.05, chi‐square). The AIT formulation was different in 58% of the dogs from what it would have been without the higher concentration allergens.

Conclusions and clinical importance

The current standard IDT concentration of 1,000 PNU/mL for pollen allergens is likely too low, possibly resulting in inaccurate AIT formulations. This might explain treatment failures and the incorrect diagnosis of atopic‐like dermatitis. Further work is needed to establish optimal allergen test concentrations.
Whole-Genome Sequences of One Arthrobacter Strain and Three Pseudarthrobacter Strains Isolated from the Namib Desert
Authors: Buckley Elizabeth , Lee Kevin C. , Higgins Colleen M. , Seale Brent
Published: October 2019

We report here the draft genome sequences of one
Arthrobacter
sp. strain (NamB2) and three
Pseudarthrobacter
sp. strains (NamE2, NamB4, and NamE5) isolated from topsoil in the Namib Desert, Namibia. The assemblies contain between 29 (NamB2) and 68 (NamE5) contigs >200 bp and range from 3.26 Mb (NamB2) to 4.03 Mb (NamE2). One plasmid was identified in
Pseudarthrobacter
sp. strain NamE5.
Gall bladder torsion: a disease of the elderly
Authors: David Rowan , Traeger Luke , McDonald Christopher
Published: October 2019

We describe the case of a gall bladder torsion in an elderly female patient, which was discovered during laparoscopic exploration for presumed acute cholecystitis. The rising incidence of this relatively uncommon process can be attributed to increasing life expectancy. Gall bladder torsion typically manifests in septuagenarians and octogenarians of the female gender, as seen in the presented case. It is thought that local mesenteric redundancy predisposes to the development of mechanical organoaxial torsion along the gall bladder’s longitudinal axis involving the cystic duct and artery. Clinicians must have a high index of suspicion for gall bladder torsion, as a mimicker of acute cholecystitis, in the described patient demographic. Preoperative diagnosis is challenging with the vast majority of reported cases being diagnosed intraoperatively, and only five cases preoperatively. Prompt surgical intervention results in an overall mortality rate of approximately 5%, while a delay in diagnosis can lead to catastrophic patient outcomes.
Late-onset neonatal sepsis:Acinetobacterursingiias an infectious agent
Authors: Barros Mariana , Garrido Raquel , Tavares Ana , Cunha Manuel Sousa
Published: October 2019

The authors report a case of a premature male newborn admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit after an emergent caesarean due to maternal pre-eclampsia and foetal bradycardia at 32 weeks of gestational age and birth weight of 1440 g. There were no infection risk factors reported. On day 3 his clinical condition deteriorated, with tachycardia and subfebrile temperature and C-reactive protein at 1.25 mg/dL. Empirical antibiotics (flucloxacillin and gentamicin) were started, with no clinical improvement and C-reactive protein increasing to a maximum of 19 mg/dL (upper normal level of 1 mg/dL) after 3 days. Blood cultures from the third to the eighth day of life were positive forAcinetobacter ursingii. Targeted therapy was administered for 14 days with clinical and laboratorial improvement and he was discharged on the 28th day of life without any known sequelae.A. ursingiiis emerging as an infectious agent of late-onset sepsis in immunosuppressed neonates.
Complex anal fistula involving male genital tract: a new diagnostic entity
Authors: Alahmari Abdullah , Mansouri Majed , Alwaal Amjad
Published: October 2019

We present three male patients who had a rare presentation of anal fistula reaching the genital tract. Patient 1: a 44-year-old diabetic man presented initially to urology clinic complaining of penile and scrotal masses increasing in size for 6 months. Patient 2: a 67-year-old diabetic man presented with chronic sinus discharge from the scrotum. Patient 3: a 37-year-old diabetic man who presented with chronic sinus draining pus-like material from the scrotum for 1 year. Patients 1 and 2: following diagnosis of perianal fistula by MRI fistulography, complete excision of the fistula was done. This required tracking the fistula surgically, a perineal midline incision to release the fistula and excision of the fistula opening in the anal canal. The patients were doing well postoperative and no recurrence of fistula at 1-year follow-up. Patient 3: he refused surgical intervention. Penile mass or scrotal discharge has not been reported to be caused by fistula-in-ano.
The Anthropology of Islam in Europe: A Double Epistemological Impasse
Authors: Fadil Nadia
Published: October 2019

This article reviews the main trends in the anthropological scholarship of Islam in Europe by examining this body of work through the lens of what I call a double epistemological impasse. The first impasse refers to the historical marking of Islam as Europe's Other, and the second one concerns anthropology's discomfort with the epistemological claim making of monotheistic religious traditions. The literature is organized into three key figures (the Muslim as migrant, as Islamist, and as ethical subject), and through these figures, this article attempts to unearth how this double impasse has affected and informed anthropological scholarship on Islam in Europe.
Transcription profiling in the liver of undernourished male rat offspring reveals altered lipid metabolism pathways and predisposition to hepatic steatosis
Authors: Lecoutre Simon , Montel Valérie , Vallez Emmanuelle , Pourpe Charlène , Delmont Anne , Eury Elodie , Verbanck Marie , Dickes-Coopman Anne , Daubersies Pierre , Lesage Jean , Laborie Christine , Tailleux Anne , Staels Bart , Froguel Philippe , Breton Christophe , Vieau Didier
Published: October 2019

Clinical and animal studies have reported an association between low birth weight and the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in offspring. Using a model of prenatal maternal 70% food restriction diet (FR30) in the rat, we previously showed that maternal undernutrition predisposes offspring to altered lipid metabolism in adipose tissue, especially on a high-fat (HF) diet. Here, using microarray-based expression profiling combined with metabolic, endocrine, biochemical, histological, and lipidomic approaches, we assessed whether FR30 procedure sensitizes adult male offspring to impaired lipid metabolism in the liver. No obvious differences were noted in the concentrations of triglycerides, cholesterol, and bile acids in the liver of 4-mo-old FR30 rats whichever postweaning diet was used. However, several clues suggest that offspring’s lipid metabolism and steatosis are modified by maternal undernutrition. First, lipid composition was changed (i.e., higher total saturated fatty acids and lower elaidic acid) in the liver, whereas larger triglyceride droplets were observed in hepatocytes of undernourished rats. Second, FR30 offspring exhibited long-term impact on hepatic gene expression and lipid metabolism pathways on a chow diet. Although the transcriptome profile was globally modified by maternal undernutrition, cholesterol and bile acid biosynthesis pathways appear to be key targets, indicating that FR30 animals were predisposed to impaired hepatic cholesterol metabolism. Third, the FR30 protocol markedly modifies hepatic gene transcription profiles in undernourished offspring in response to postweaning HF. Overall, FR30 offspring may exhibit impaired metabolic flexibility, which does not enable them to properly cope with postweaning nutritional challenges influencing the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver.
Path Correction of the Boom Road‐Header in Coal Mining Based on State Estimation
Authors: Qu Yuanyuan , Cheng Xin , Zhang Minjun , Fu Shichen , Wu Miao
Published: October 2019

Trajectory planning and tracking control algorithm based on a position and orientation deviation model are proposed to achieve path correction for the mining boom road‐header working underground. The proposed strategy is assessed to be feasible and potentially practicable by simulations, from which the following statements are summarized. Firstly, trajectory planning is necessary since different trajectories correspond to different scenarios about undesirable excavation space, slipping level, and power consumption. Secondly, using the proposed tracking control algorithm, the road‐header is guided back onto the expected path in limited adjusting steps, with smoothly varying rotation speeds of the driving wheels and regularly reducing pose errors. Lastly, it shows that by implying the SVD‐unscented Kalman filtering in the tracking control, the adverse impacts of process and measurement noises are appeased obviously. This research provides an advisable modeling and valuable simulation for the road‐header to achieve robotic operation underground.
Modified Antipredatory Particle Swarm Optimization for Dynamic Economic Dispatch with Wind Power
Authors: Chen Kai , Han Li , Wang Shuhuan , Lu Junjie , Shi Liping
Published: October 2019

A modified antipredatory particle swarm optimization (MAPSO) algorithm with evasive adjustment behavior is proposed to solve the dynamic economic dispatch problem of wind power. The algorithm adds the social avoidance inertia weight to the conventional antipredatory particle swarm optimization (APSO) speed update formula. The size of inertia weight is determined by the distance between the global worst particle and other particles. After normalizing the distance, the inertia weight is controlled within the ideal range by using the characteristics of sigmoid function and linear decreasing method, which improves the ability of particles to avoid the worst solution. Then, according to the characteristics of the acceleration coefficient which can adjust the local and global searching ability of particles, acceleration coefficients of nonlinear change strategy is proposed to improve the searching ability of the algorithm. Finally, the proposed algorithm is applied to several benchmark functions and power grid system models, and the results are compared with those reported using other algorithms, which prove the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed algorithm.
Change of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Levels following Vitrectomy in Eyes with Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Chen Hui-Jin , Ma Zhi-Zhong , Li Ying , Wang Chang-Guan
Published: October 2019

Purpose. To study the change of concentrations of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in vitreous cavity after vitrectomy in eyes with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). Methods. In this retrospective study, intravitreal fluid samples were taken at baseline (beginning of the vitrectomy) and postoperatively (several days later after vitrectomy) at the time of prophylactic injection of bevacizumab in forty-eight eyes of forty-eight patients with PDR. Postvitrectomy fluid samples were divided into four groups according to the time interval between the vitrectomy and the injection (group 1, 3–5 days; group 2, 6–10 days; group 3, 11–15 days; group 4, 16–21 days; twelve eyes in each group). Postvitrectomy fluid sample was paired with baseline sample for each eye. VEGF concentrations in the samples were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Recurrent vitreous hemorrhage and neovascular glaucoma within six months postvitrectomy were also analyzed. Results. Overall, the intravitreal VEGF level after vitrectomy (median, 36.95 pg/ml; range, 3.2–1,299.4 pg/ml) was significantly less than the VEGF level at baseline (median, 704.5 pg/ml; range, 30.6–1,981.1 pg/ml). Postoperative and baseline VEGF levels were significantly correlated (r = 0.499, p<0.01). Both the absolute value of postoperative VEGF concentrations and the postop/baseline VEGF ratios declined with time and dramatically decreased in groups 3 and 4. In only two eyes, the postoperative VEGF level was even higher than the baseline VEGF level (postop/baseline VEGF ratio >1), and recurrent vitreous hemorrhage developed within six months in these two eyes. Conclusions. After vitrectomy for PDR, intravitreal VEGF levels decreased substantially in the majority of patients, while persistent high-VEGF level occurred in a few individuals. Postoperative VEGF levels and postop/baseline VEGF ratio declined with time. The postop/preop VEGF ratio may serve as a predictor for late complications.
Appropriate Use of Transesophageal Echocardiogram for Infective Endocarditis: A Single Center Experience
Authors: Singh Robby , Naidu Moumita , Bader Yousef , Freeman David , Zughaib Marcel
Published: October 2019

Background. Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) is a valuable tool in healthcare today with its ease of use, ability to visualize important structures not seen on transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE), and the relatively lower cost of TEE, high yield, and no significant radiation exposure. The American Society of Echocardiography (ASE) has developed an appropriate use criteria for use of TTE and TEE, which outline various scenarios where a TEE is indicated as an initial diagnostic testing modality and when it is useful as an adjunctive test in hopes of decreasing inappropriate use. Using these criteria as a guide, we devised a quality assessment study to investigate how well TEEs performed at our institution fit the appropriate use criteria specifically for the diagnostic workup of infective endocarditis. Methods. A retrospective chart review was performed for all TEEs performed in 2017 with the indication of endocarditis. Baseline patient characteristics, presence of bacteremia, and the quality of the TTE preceding the TEE were noted, as well as whether a vegetation, abscess, or perforation was visualized. We also determined if there was a cardiology consultation placed prior to TEE and if the patient had met the definition for endocarditis as defined by the Duke criteria. Finally, we made note of the TEE findings and assessed whether the TEE met appropriate use criteria developed by the American Society of Echocardiography. Results. A total of 50 patients who underwent TEE with the indication of “endocarditis” were identified. 36% of the TTEs prior to the TEE were rated as good quality, 40% as adequate, 4% as fair, 4% as suboptimal, 12% as technically difficult, and 4% were not rated. Vegetations were visualized on 12% of TTEs, 6% of patients had a prosthetic valve, and 6% had a cardiac device. In 20% of the cases, there was no cardiology consultation prior to the TEE and in 20% of the cases, there was no documented bacteremia. 26% of patients met the Duke criteria for endocarditis prior to TEE. Only 36% of TEEs revealed evidence of infection and of the patients with no evidence of infection, only 38% met appropriate use criteria. Overall, only 56% of patients met appropriate use criteria for TEE. Conclusion. Transesophageal echocardiography is a valuable tool in a modern physician’s arsenal for managing a variety of diseases and conditions. However, the procedure is not without associated risks and its ease of use and widespread adoption has led to frequent questionable appropriateness of use of the test. Only 56% of the TEEs performed in our analysis met appropriate use. More awareness and education is needed for the appropriate use criteria for transesophageal echocardiography as outlined by the ASE to help reduce patient exposure to procedure related complications and to decrease medical costs on unnecessary procedures.
Robot-Assisted versus Laparoscopic-Assisted Gastrectomy among Gastric Cancer Patients: A Retrospective Short-Term Analysis from a Single Institution in China
Authors: Sun Li-Fei , Liu Kai , Su Xue-Shang , Wei Xuan , Chen Xiao-Long , Zhang Wei-Han , Chen Xin-Zu , Yang Kun , Zhou Zong-Guang , Hu Jian-Kun
Published: October 2019

Background. The da Vinci robotic system was considered an effectively alternative treatment option for early gastric cancer patients in recent years. The aim of our study was to evaluate the safety and feasibility of robot-assisted gastrectomy in our center. Methods. This study included 33 patients who underwent robot-assisted gastrectomy (RAG) and 88 patients who underwent laparoscopic-assisted gastrectomy (LAG) between January 2016 and April 2018. Clinicopathological characteristics, surgical parameters, postoperative recovery, and the learning curves of RAG were evaluated. Results. Baseline characteristics between two groups were well balanced. The operation time of RAG was longer than that of LAG (333.1±61.4 min vs. 290.6±39.0 min, p=0.001), and the estimated blood loss was 62.4±41.2 ml in the RAG group and 77.7±32.3 ml in the LAG group (p=0.005), respectively. The mean number of examined lymph nodes in RAG was less than that in LAG (30.3±10.2 vs. 37.4±13.7, p=0.008). However, RAG had an advantage in the dissection of No. 9 lymph nodes (3.4±2.1 vs. 2.5±1.6, p=0.039). The incidence of postoperative complications was similar in both groups (p=0.735). There were no significant differences in terms of postoperative recovery between the two groups. The learning curve of RAG showed that the CUSUM value decreased from the 8th case, which suggested a rapid learning curve among experienced surgeons on LAG operations. Conclusions. RAG was safe and feasible for gastric cancer patients, with superiority in the dissection of No. 9 lymph nodes.
Cooperative Immune-Mediated Mechanisms of the HDAC Inhibitor Entinostat, an IL15 Superagonist, and a Cancer Vaccine Effectively Synergize as a Novel Cancer Therapy
Authors: Hicks Kristin C. , Knudson Karin M. , Lee Karin L. , Hamilton Duane H. , Hodge James W. , Figg William D. , Ordentlich Peter , Jones Frank R. , Rabizadeh Shahrooz , Soon-Shiong Patrick , Schlom Jeffrey , Gameiro Sofia R.
Published: October 2019

Purpose:

Immunotherapy has demonstrated clinical efficacy in subsets of patients with solid carcinomas. Multimodal therapies using agents that can affect different arms of the immune system and/or tumor microenvironment (TME) might increase clinical responses.

Experimental Design:

We demonstrate that entinostat, a class I histone deacetylase inhibitor, enhances the antitumor efficacy of the IL15 superagonist N-803 plus vaccine in 4T1 triple-negative breast and MC38-CEA colon murine carcinoma models. A comprehensive immune and gene-expression analysis was performed in the periphery and/or TME of MC38-CEA tumor–bearing mice.

Results:

Although N-803 plus vaccine induced peripheral CD8+ T-cell activation and cytokine production, there was no reduction in tumor burden and poor tumor infiltration of CD8+ T cells with minimal levels of granzyme B. For the first time, we demonstrate that the addition of entinostat to N-803 plus vaccine promoted significant tumor control, correlating with increased expression of genes associated with tumor inflammation, enhanced infiltration of activated CD8+ T cells with maximal granzyme B, T-cell responses to multiple tumor-associated antigens, increased serum IFNγ, reduction of regulatory T cells in the TME, and decreased expression of the checkpoint V-domain Ig suppressor of T-cell activation (VISTA) on multiple immune subsets.

Conclusions:

Collectively, these data demonstrate that the synergistic combination of entinostat, N-803, and vaccine elicits potent antitumor activity by generating a more inflamed TME. These findings thus form the rationale for the use of this combination of agents for patients harboring poorly or noninflamed solid carcinomas.
Identification of Areas for Improvement in the Management of Bone Metastases in Patients with Neuroendocrine Neoplasms
Authors: Lim Kok Haw Jonathan , Raja Hussain , D’Arienzo Paolo , Barriuso Jorge , McNamara Mairéad G. , Hubner Richard A. , Mansoor Wasat , Valle Juan W. , Lamarca Angela
Published: October 2019

Background: There is no global consensus on the optimal management of bone metastases (BMs) in neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs). Objectives: To review current management and outcomes of patients with BMs in NENs, in order to identify areas for improvement. Methods: A retrospective study of all patients with NENs, except Grade 3 lung NENs (April 2002 to March 2018) was conducted. Baseline characteristics, nature of BMs, treatment received and overall survival (OS) were evaluated. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 23.0/STATA v12. Results: Of 1,212 patients, 85 (7%) had BMs; median age 58 years. The majority had a gastro-entero-pancreatic primary (49%, n = 42) followed by lung (25%, n = 21), unknown primary (20%, n = 17), and “others” (6%, n = 5). Two-thirds (n = 57) had G1–2 neuroendocrine tumours, and 41% (n = 35) had functional tumours. Overall, 28% (n = 24) presented with synchronous BMs at first NEN diagnosis, and 55% (n = 47) developed BMs at the same time as other distant metastases. For the subpopulation of patients in whom BMs developed metachronously to other distant metastases (45%, n = 38), median time to development of BMs was 14.0 months. BMs were “widespread” in 61% (n = 52). Although only 22% (n = 19) reported symptoms at initial diagnosis of BMs, most (78%) developed symptoms at some time during the follow-up period (pain/hypercalcaemia 64%, skeletal-related events 20%). BMs were mainly managed with analgesia (44%, n = 37). Radiotherapy and bisphosphonates were used in 34% (n = 29) and 22% (n = 19) respectively. Surgery was rarely performed (2%, n = 2). Median OS from identification of BMs was 31.0, and 18.9 months from development of BMs-related symptoms. Conclusions: In this cohort study, most patients with BMs developed symptoms. The utility of radiotherapy and/or bisphosphonates should be prospectively and systematically explored further for its potential impact on patients’ quality of life and survival outcomes.
РУКАВНА РЕЗЕКЦІЯ ШЛУНКА У ХВОРИХ НА МОРБІДНЕ ОЖИРІННЯ: ВПЛИВ НА ПОКАЗНИКИ ЛІПІДОГРАМИ
Authors: Todurov I. M. , Perekhrestenko O. V. , Kalashnikov O. O. , Kosiuchno S. V. , Plehutsa O. I. , Yakimets V. M.
Published: October 2019

Мета: вивчити вплив рукавної резекції шлунка на показники ліпідограми у хворих на морбідне ожиріння з передопераційною дисліпідемією.

Матеріали і методи. В основу дослідження покладено матеріали клінічного обстеження та хірургічного лікування 105 хворих на морбідне ожиріння (47 чоловіків та 58 жінок, середній вік – (41,8±12,4) року), яким було виконано рукавну резекцію шлунка.

Результати. Діагноз дисліпідемії до операції встановлено у 86 (81,9 %) хворих. Регулярне використання гіполіпідемічних препаратів у 44 (51,1 %) хворих до операції не привело до нормалізації чи суттєвого покращення показників ліпідограми. Виконання рукавної резекції шлунка забезпечило зниження середнього рівня загального холестерину в обстеженій популяції пацієнтів з (5,73±1,0) до (4,92±0,5) ммоль/л, тригліцеридів з (1,91±0,9) до (1,43±0,3) ммоль/л, регресії коефіцієнта атерогенності з 3,84±0,8 до 2,9±0,6 через 60 місяців після операції (р<0,05). Через 60 місяців після рукавної резекції шлунка дисліпідемію (у всіх – 2а типу) діагностовано у 15 (62,5 %) хворих основної групи з передопераційними порушеннями ліпідного обміну, в 9 (37,5 %) хворих показники ліпідограми нормалізувались у хворих на морбідне ожиріння, що свідчить про ефективність операційного втручання.

Висновки. Рукавна резекція шлунка є ефективною методикою корекції дисліпідемії у хворих на морбідне ожиріння. Виконання означеного втручання приводить до суттєвого та стійкого (протягом 5-річного терміну післяопераційного спостереження) зниження середнього рівня загального холестерину, тригліцеридів та коефіцієнта атерогенності.
Percepções de vida e perspectivas de futuro de usuários de drogas
Authors: Inoue Laryssa , Bellini Luana Cristina , Paiano Marcelle , Haddad Maria Do Carmo Lourenço , Marcon Sonia Silva
Published: October 2019

OBJETIVO: descrever as perspectivas de futuro de sujeitos que fazem uso abusivo de drogas e suas percepções sobre a vida antes e durante o tratamento para dependência química.MÉTODO: pesquisa descritiva-exploratória qualitativa realizada no Centro de Atenção Psicossocial - Álcool e Drogas. Foram ouvidos 28 sujeitos utilizando grupo focal. Os relatos foram submetidos à Análise Temática.RESULTADOS: emergiram três categorias: "O Viver inautêntico: percepções de vida antes do tratamento", "Reencontrando o caminho para o existir: percepções de vida durante o tratamento" e "Voltando a sonhar: perspectivas de futuro durante o tratamento".CONSIDERAÇÕES FINAIS: para compreender esse cenário, é necessário intervir no problema de forma intersetorial incluindo não apenas os serviços de saúde, mas também as demais instituições.
High Bars or Behind Bars? The Effect of Graduation Requirements on Arrest Rates
Authors: Larsen Matthew F.
Published: October 2019

This paper investigates the effect of high school graduation requirements on arrest rates with a specific focus on the number of required courses and the use of exit exams. Identifying variation comes from state-by-cohort changes in the laws governing high school graduation requirements from 1980 to 2010. Combining these law changes with arrest rates of young adults from the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Uniform Crime Reports, I find that the use of exit exams can reduce arrest rates by approximately 7 percent. Although it is difficult to parse out the exact mechanisms, additional exploration into heterogeneity by age and offense, as well as examination of labor market outcomes, suggest that these policies may have increased learning. Given the current debate around the use of exit exams, this paper provides evidence of beneficial effects on nonacademic outcomes. This paper also provides further evidence of the influence of education policy on crime.
Deity Representation: A Prototype Approach
Authors: May Ross W. , Fincham Frank D.
Published: October 2019

This research systematically evaluates via prototype analysis how conceptualizations of Western adult's monotheistic God are structured. Over 4 studies, using U.S. student and community samples of predominantly Christians, features of God are identified, feature centrality is documented, and centrality influence on cognition is evaluated. Studies 1 and 2 produced considerable overlap in feature frequency and centrality ratings across the samples, with “God is love” being the most frequently listed central feature. In Studies 3 (choice latency) and 4 (recall and recognition memory), the centrality of features influenced cognitive processes: central features were more quickly identified as features of God than peripheral features; were correctly recognized more often; and central features were correctly recalled more often than peripheral features. Results indicated that participants meaningfully judged centrality and that centrality affected cognition. Thus, the two criteria necessary for demonstrating deity representations adhere to a prototype structure were met. Implications and future directions are discussed.
A new species of Aphonopelma (Araneae: Mygalomorphae: Theraphosidae) from the Madrean pine-oak woodlands of northeastern Sonora, Mexico
Authors: HENDRIXSON BRENT E.
Published: October 2019

The tarantula spider genus Aphonopelma Pocock, 1901 has received considerable attention in recent years but the group’s diversity remains poorly understood in Mexico, particularly in the pine-oak woodlands of the Sierra Madre Occidental and associated Madrean “Sky Islands”. A pair of tarantulas discovered from an unsampled region in the Sierra de Bacadéhuachi (the westernmost range of the Sierra Madre Occidental) in northeastern Sonora was found to be closely related to four species from the Madrean “Sky Islands” in Arizona and New Mexico. An integrative approach for delimiting species (incorporating data from molecular phylogenetics, morphology, distributions, and breeding periods) suggests that the specimens from Sierra de Bacadéhuachi belong to an undescribed species that is herein named Aphonopelma bacadehuachi sp. nov. This new species adds to our knowledge of an increasingly diverse assemblage of Aphonopelma from the Madrean Pine-Oak Woodlands Hotspot. Collaborations between Mexican and American researchers are needed to accelerate discovery and description of the group’s remaining diversity, particularly in light of the many threats facing the ecoregion including habitat degradation and climate change.
Analytical Modeling of Carbon Nanoparticle-Based Symmetric p–n Junction
Authors: Majidi Mohammad , Ahmadi Mohammad Taghi , Rahmani Meisam
Published: October 2019

Outstanding physical and electrical properties such as quantum transport, high carrier mobility, excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, high surface area, good optical transparency, strong mechanical strength and easy fabrication make carbon nanoparticles appropriate on nanoelectronic
applications. Carbon nanoparticle based p–n junction, as a fundamental structure of nanoscale devices, is analytically presented in this study. The carbon nanoparticle p–n interface reveals an improved transport along the junction in comparison with
the conventional p–n junction. Controlling the doping of p–n junction based device partially permit the foundation of carbon nanoparticle based bipolar technology and can overcome application of current in silicon based technology. This paper analytically
demonstrates findings on electric field, space charge region width, scalar potential, built-in potential and transport along carbon nanoparticle based p–n junction. The uniqueness of this method is to create a well identified carbon nanoparticle based p–n
junction which opens new opportunities for researching high field transport limit in nanoscale devices.
Effect of Size Reduction on Structure, Magnetic Memory and Relaxation of La0.7Sr0.3MnO3 Nanowires
Authors: Datta Subarna , Ghosh Nilotpal , Ghosh Barnali
Published: October 2019

We have demonstrated here the study of memory effect, relaxation and interaction of hydrothermally grown La0.7Sr0.3MnO3 (LSMO-0.3) nanowires (NWs) and its bulk form synthesized by using polymeric precursor route. Magnetic relaxation measurement has been
performed and the analysis shows the existence of two relaxation times in both the cases. It has been observed that both the samples show signature of magnetic memory effect and prefer magnetized state. Curie temperature of La0.7Sr0.3MnO3 (LSMO-0.3) NWs is
decreased compared to its bulk form due to finite size effects.
A Combined Quality Function Deployment Approach for Determining the Quality Characteristics of Undergraduate Programs
Authors: Abdalla Sevgi
Published: October 2019

In this study, a combined approach of Quality Function Deployment (QFD) and the Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) has been used to extract and to determine the important quality characteristics of undergraduate programs. We have required to take advantage of the exploratory factor analysis
as a data/dimension reduction tool in order to improve the effectiveness of QFD, because of a great number of customer requirements. 10 latent factors (Academic Staff (AS), Physical Facilities (PF), Career Prospects (CP), The Competence of Canteen Facility (CCF), Scientific Research Activities
(SRA), Campus Design (CD), Club Activities (CA), Social Environment (SE), Physical Environment-Interior (PEI) and Adequate Library Services (ALS)) as students' requirements were determined after the implementation of EFA. The house of quality was constructed on basis of those 10 factors. Consequently,
the findings are going to provide insights and sentiments to researchers and managers in higher education system.
Electronic and Optical Properties of Indium Selenide Nanosheet Using First-Principle Calculations
Authors: Mezerh Hamza A. , Kadhim Kadhim J. , Jappor Hamad Rahman
Published: October 2019

Density functional theory (DFT) have been used to examine the electronic and optical, properties of two-dimensional (2D) indium selenide (InSe) nanosheet. Our calculations indicate that the energy band gap of InSe is indirect and equal to 1.53 eV. It can be seen that for the pristine
case, the majority and minority density of state (DOS) are fully symmetric. The optical properties are considered up to 36 eV. Our results established that the absorption starts in the visible region, while the peaks in the ultraviolet region. The refractive index value is 1.84 at zero photon
energy limit and increase to 2.31. The high refractive index allows this nanosheet to be utilized as an internal layer coating between the substrate and the ultraviolet absorbing layer. Additionally, we observed that the gained optical properties of InSe nanosheet are in the ultraviolet range
and the results are significant. It is expected that from these calculations to provide useful information for further experimental investigations of InSe nanosheet.
Resources and Influences: Parents in Leadership Positions in Low-/Mid-SES and High-SES Schools in Israel
Authors: Addi-Raccah Audrey
Published: October 2019

Purpose: This study focused on parents’ involvement in their children’s schools through participation in collective leadership roles. Based on Bourdieu’s approach the current analysis examined the link between parents’ types of resources, types of involvement in schools, and their influences over different school domains while comparing parents from two socioeconomic status (SES) levels (low/mid and high). Research Design: Participants comprised 624 parents from 21 randomly selected elementary schools, of which 10 were of low-/mid-SES and 11 high-SES schools. Data were collected by a questionnaire and analyzed based on multivariate analysis of variance and multi-group structural equation modeling approach. Findings: It was found that for holding leadership roles in schools, parents activate diverse education-related resources. Once gaining a formal leadership role parents may feel a legitimate right to influence schools, mainly on issues related to school management domains such as fundraising. Although, some differences occurred between high-SES and low-/mid-SES schools, there was a similarity regarding parents’ leadership roles that may benefit schools by bridging between the schools and their environment. Conclusions: As schools become more heterarchical, parent leadership may be able to play an increasingly significant role in facilitating the school principal’s work and fostering school improvement. Accordingly, school principals need to support and encourage parent leadership, particularly in low-SES schools. For that purpose, educators must be more attentive, accepting and value the resources of parents of low-SES schools.
Single-Cell RNA-seq Identifies Cell Diversity in Embryonic Salivary Glands
Authors: Sekiguchi R. , Martin D. ,   Genomics and Computational Biology Core, Yamada K.M.
Published: October 2019

Branching organs, including the salivary and mammary glands, lung, and kidney, arise as epithelial buds that are morphologically very similar. However, the mesenchyme is known to guide epithelial morphogenesis and to help govern cell fate and eventual organ specificity. We performed single-cell transcriptome analyses of 14,441 cells from embryonic day 12 submandibular and parotid salivary glands to characterize their molecular identities during bud initiation. The mesenchymal cells were considerably more heterogeneous by clustering analysis than the epithelial cells. Nonetheless, distinct clusters were evident among even the epithelial cells, where unique molecular markers separated presumptive bud and duct cells. Mesenchymal cells formed separate, well-defined clusters specific to each gland. Neuronal and muscle cells of the 2 glands in particular showed different markers and localization patterns. Several gland-specific genes were characteristic of different rhombomeres. A muscle cluster was prominent in the parotid, which was not myoepithelial or vascular smooth muscle. Instead, the muscle cluster expressed genes that mediate skeletal muscle differentiation and function. Striated muscle was indeed found later in development surrounding the parotid gland. Distinct spatial localization patterns of neuronal and muscle cells in embryonic stages appear to foreshadow later differences in adult organ function. These findings demonstrate that the establishment of transcriptional identities emerges early in development, primarily in the mesenchyme of developing salivary glands. We present the first comprehensive description of molecular signatures that define specific cellular landmarks for the bud initiation stage, when the neural crest–derived ectomesenchyme predominates in the salivary mesenchyme that immediately surrounds the budding epithelium. We also provide the first transcriptome data for the largely understudied embryonic parotid gland as compared with the submandibular gland, focusing on the mesenchymal cell populations.
Using instrumental variables to estimate the attributable fraction
Authors: Dahlqwist Elisabeth , Kutalik Zoltán , Sjölander Arvid
Published: October 2019

In order to design efficient interventions aimed to improve public health, policy makers need to be provided with reliable information of the health burden of different risk factors. For this purpose, we are interested in the proportion of cases that could be prevented had some harmful exposure been eliminated from the population, i.e. the attributable fraction. The attributable fraction is a causal measure; thus, to estimate the attributable fraction from observational data, we have to make appropriate adjustment for confounding. However, some confounders may be unobserved, or even unknown to the investigator. A possible solution to this problem is to use instrumental variable analysis. In this work, we present how the attributable fraction can be estimated with instrumental variable methods based on the two-stage estimator or the G-estimator. One situation when the problem of unmeasuredconfounding may be particularly severe is when assessing the effect of low educational qualifications on coronary heart disease. By using Mendelian randomization, a special case of instrumental variable analysis, it has been claimed that low educational qualifications is a causal risk factor for coronary heart disease. We use Mendelian randomization to estimate the causal risk ratio and causal odds ratio of low educational qualifications as a risk factor for coronary heart disease with data from the UK Biobank. We compare the two-stage and G-estimator as well as the attributable fraction based on the two estimators. The plausibility of drawing causal conclusion in this analysis is thoroughly discussed and alternative genetic instrumental variables are tested.
University Incubation System for Research Commercialisation: The Case of Taiwan and Malaysia
Authors: Ng Boon-Kwee , Chen Shih-Hsin , Wong Chan-Yuan , Chandran Vgr
Published: October 2019

This article examines the performance of university research commercialisation in Taiwan and Malaysia and specifically discusses the role of incubation intermediaries. Through case study and patent analysis, this article draws lessons from Taiwan and further discusses the mechanisms in place for the successful commercialisation of university research. Lessons from the case offer insights for Malaysia on how university incubation intermediaries can be reorganised to promote better commercialisation outcomes. The Taiwanese experience illustrates that in the right institutional settings—and particularly with the presence of innovative science and technology parks—university incubators tend to promote favourable commercialisation outcomes. More importantly, the ability of university incubators to source for external knowledge and risk capital support positions them to be more effective as intermediaries. Other key success factors include establishing an adequate intellectual property management system and having adequate human resources equipped with intellectual property knowledge. This article further deliberates policy implications.