bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The effects of volume of interest delineation on MRI-based radiomics analysis: evaluation with two disease groups
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Zhong Liming , Zhang Bin , Zhang Lu , Du Haiyan , Lu Lijun , Zhang Shuixing , Yang Wei , Feng Qianjin 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background
Manual delineation of volume of interest (VOI) is widely used in current radiomics analysis, suffering from high variability. The tolerance of delineation differences and possible influence on each step of radiomics analysis are not clear, requiring quantitative assessment. The purpose of our study was to investigate the effects of delineation of VOIs on radiomics analysis for the preoperative prediction of metastasis in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and sentinel lymph node (SLN) metastasis in breast cancer.

Methods
This study retrospectively enrolled two datasets (NPC group: 238 cases; SLN group: 146 cases). Three operations, namely, erosion, smoothing, and dilation, were implemented on the VOIs accurately delineated by radiologists to generate diverse VOI variations. Then, we extracted 2068 radiomics features and evaluated the effects of VOI differences on feature values by the intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC). Feature selection was conducted by Maximum Relevance Minimum Redundancy combined with 0.632+ bootstrap algorithms. The prediction performance of radiomics models with random forest classifier were tested on an independent validation cohort by the area under the receive operating characteristic curve (AUC).

Results
The larger the VOIs changed, the fewer features with high ICCs. Under any variation, SLN group showed fewer features with ICC ≥ 0.9 compared with NPC group. Not more than 15% top-predictive features identical to the accurate VOIs were observed across feature selection. The differences of AUCs of models derived from VOIs across smoothing or dilation with 3 pixels were not statistically significant compared with the accurate VOIs (p > 0.05) except for T2-weighted fat suppression images (smoothing: 0.845 vs. 0.725, p = 0.001; dilation: 0.800 vs. 0.725, p = 0.042). Dilation with 5 and 7 pixels contributed to remarkable AUCs in SLN group but the opposite in NPC group. The radiomics models did not perform well when tested by data from other delineations.

Conclusions
Differences in delineation of VOIs affected radiomics analysis, related to specific disease and MRI sequences. Differences from smooth delineation or expansion with 3 pixels width around the tumors or lesions were acceptable. The delineation for radiomics analysis should follow a predefined and unified standard.
Bayesian smoothed small-areas analysis of urban inequalities in fertility across 1999–2013
Authors: León-Gómez Brenda Biaani , Gotsens Mercè , Marí-Dell’Olmo Marc , Domínguez-Berjón Ma. Felicitas , Luque-Fernandez Miguel Ángel , Martin Unai , Rodríguez-Sanz Maica , Pérez Gloria 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background
Since the 2008 economic crisis in Spain, overall fertility has continued to decrease, while urban inequalities have increased. There is a general lack of studies of fertility patterns in small-areas of Spanish cities. We explored the effects of the economic crisis on fertility during three time periods in urban settings in Spain.

Methods
We studied the distribution of fertility rates among women (15–49 years) from Spain and low-middle income countries (LIC) who were living in 13 Spanish cities. We mapped fertility and the MEDEA socioeconomic deprivation index in small-areas, and analyzed age-related trends in fertility rates. We performed an ecological regression analysis of fertility and the deprivation index in two pre-crisis periods (1999–2003 and 2004–2008) and one crisis period (2009–2013). Fertility rates were calculated and smoothed using the hierarchical Bayesian model (BYM).

Results
Higher fertility was generally associated with socioeconomic deprivation, with adjustment for the mothers’ age and nationality. While Spanish citizens tended to delay childbearing throughout the three study periods, fertility increased among Spanish adolescents from deprived urban areas during the economic crisis. There was a general decline in fertility among immigrants after the crisis, especially in southern cities. Overall, fertility appeared to be stable, with higher fertility in more deprived areas.

Conclusion
Increased unemployment and changes to government family policies may have contributed to delayed childbearing in Spain. For immigrants, more restrictive immigration policies may have played a crucial role in decreasing fertility rates. Reforming such policies will be key for better reproductive rights and improved fertility rates across all population cohorts in Spain.
Osteoblast behaviours on nanorod hydroxyapatite-grafted glass surfaces
Authors: Park So Jung , Gupta Kailash Chandra , Kim Hun , Kim Sukyoung , Kang Inn-Kyu 
Published: December 2019

Abstract

Background
The goal of this study is to obtain basic information to improve the bone adhesion of silica components, which are used as the main ingredient in glass ionomer cement (GIC). To achieve this, nanorod hydroxyapatite (nHA) was grafted to the surface of silica cover glass. Surface analysis confirmed nHA was joined to the glass surface and biocompatibility with osteoblasts was investigated.

Results
The grafting of nHA on the surface of slide cover glass (Glass) was confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and contact angle (θ) measurement. MC3T3-E1 cells were more stretched out on the nHA-grafted cover glass (Glass-nHA) in comparison to the Glass. In addition, the Glass-nHA was more bioactive in supporting the proliferation of MC3T3-E1 cells in comparison to cells seeded on the Glass.

Conclusion
The Glass-nHA was to be highly bioactive and this might be useful information for property modification of GIC.
Risk factor and symptoms of burnout in physiotherapists in the canton of Bern
Authors: Rogan Slavko , Verhavert Yanni , Zinzen Evert , Rey Fabienne , Scherer Aline , Luijckx Eefje 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background
Several studies have shown that the risk of burnout is high for people working in health professions. Many physiotherapists have either suffered from burn out personally or have seen colleagues suffer from it. In Switzerland, there is a lack of evidence concerning the risk factors and symptoms for burnout among physiotherapist.
The aim of this study was to empirically identify risk factors and symptoms of burnout in physiotherapists working in the canton of Bern.

Method
Based on interview guidelines, three semi-structured interviews with physiotherapists who experienced burn out themselves were conducted. The questions were divided into two main categories: risk factors and symptoms. For analysis, the interviews were transcribed and assigned to individual categories.

Results
High personal expectations and the pressure that comes with working on patients with chronic complaints were the most common answers from the participants. In this study these factors can be considered as important risk factors. In particular, emotional exhaustion and depression seem to be relevant burnout symptoms which lead to a decrease in personal performance.

Conclusion
In this study physiotherapists with burn out working in an acute care hospital tend to suffer from symptoms of emotional exhaustion and depersonalization. For physiotherapists, sensitization to symptoms and risk factors of burnout is essential in daily work as well as in education. The results of this study might be of interest for physiotherapist or physiotherapists students to prevent and sensitive them for burnout symptoms.
Succession study on forensically important Coleoptera from India: a preliminary study and its forensic implications
Authors: Singh Neha , Bala Madhu 
Published: December 2019

AbstractBackgroundColeoptera is the second most important group of entomofauna associated with decomposition, yet little is known about its role in decomposition and postmortem colonization of carcasses in India and other parts of the world. Consequently, a preliminary study was conducted to study the succession of forensically important Coleoptera using goat carrion as an animal model.ResultsFive decomposition stages were observed during the experiment. A total of 1174 adult coleopterans belonging to 21 species and seven families were collected during this study. Throughout faunal succession, Histeridae and Silphidae were the dominant Coleopteran families, and they occurred mainly during the bloated and decay stages of decomposition;Necrophila(Calosilpha)iopterawas the dominant species present from the bloated to dry stage of putrescence. Two species,Pachylister bellicusandSaprinus sternifossawere reported for the first time from India.ConclusionThis study provides baseline data regarding Coleopteran species associated with different decomposition stages, but more extensive studies need to be performed to develop a geographical database on arthropod succession from as many habitats as possible so that this kind of data can be used in forensic cases.
Inhibition of STAT3 signaling induces apoptosis and suppresses growth of lung cancer: good and bad
Authors: Kang Ju-Hee , Jang Yeong-Su , Lee Ha Jung , Lee Chang-Yong , Shin Dong Yun , Oh Seung Hyun 
Published: December 2019

AbstractSignal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) modulates a variety of genes involved in the regulation of critical functions, including cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, angiogenesis, metastasis, and immunity. For many cancers, elevated levels of STAT3 signaling have been associated with a poor prognosis and the development of chemotherapy resistance. In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effects of a novel small-molecule inhibitor of STAT3, STX-0119, on the cell viability and survival of human lung cancer cells. STX-0119 inhibited activated STAT3 and the expression of STAT3-regulated oncoproteins such as c-Myc, cyclin D1, and survivin in lung cancer cells. STX-0119 also decreased the amount of STAT3 in the nuclear fraction as well as induced apoptosis of these lung cancer cell lines as evidenced by increases in apoptotic cells (Annexin V positive) and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) cleavage. The efficacy of STX-0119 in a mouse xenograft model was confirmed. However, a hematological side effect, which had not been previously reported, was observed. The level of white blood cells was significantly lowered when treated at the dose at which STX-0119 alone showed a significant tumor-suppressive effect. In conclusion, we suggest that STX-0119 may be a potent therapeutic agent against lung cancer. Consideration of the side effect suggests, it is necessary to study whether low-dose STX-0119 is effective for lung treatment with a combination of classic lung cancer therapeutics.
Prognostic value of different cardiac magnetic resonance imaging derived parameters in Egyptian patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction after successful reperfusion by primary percutaneous intervention
Authors: Kamal Diaa , S. Ibrahim Ahmed , Ahmed Nasr Merhan , S. Madkour Sherihan 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background
Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) is an extremely accurate and useful modality that can give much data about myocardial damage after acute myocardial infarction and consequently can give a good idea about long-term prognosis. Unfortunately, this modality is still underused in Egypt. We tried to assess the prognostic significance of different parameters derived from CMR in Egyptian patients presenting with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) treated by primary percutaneous intervention (PPCI). Twenty-five patients who presented with acute STEMI and were successfully reperfused by PPCI within 12 h from symptoms onset were included. CMR was performed 2–4 days after PPCI. Six months of long-term follow-up for major adverse cardiovascular events (re-infarction, new-onset heart failure and cardiac death) was done. CMR-derived parameters (edema volume, area at risk, infarction volume, infarction percentage, microvascular obstruction volume, microvascular obstruction percentage, myocardial salvage and myocardial salvage index) were analyzed in relation to incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE).

Results
Seven patients suffered from MACE. Univariate logistic regression analysis showed a significant correlation between edema volume (P = 0.04), area at risk (P = 0.05), infarction percentage (P = 0.05) and the occurrence of MACE. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that infarction percentage (P = 0.05) is the best parameter that can predict MACE.

Conclusion
Infarction percentage is potentially the most important prognosticator derived from CMR in Egyptian patients with acute STEMI successfully reperfused by PPCI.
Characterization of coumarins from Ipomoea mauritiana Jacq by LC-APCI-MS/MS analysis and evaluation of its anti-amnesic activity
Authors: C.T Sulaiman , M Deepak , A.R Sunil , K.R Lijini , Balachandran Indira 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background
Ipomoea mauritiana is one of the source plants of Vidari, an Ayurvedic drug used as Medhyarasayana (rejuvenating drug). In this current study, coumarins were separated from tuberous root of I. mauritiana and characterization of the coumarin fraction was done by LC-MS/MS analysis by atmospheric pressure chemical ionization method. Anti-amnesic activity was evaluated against scopolamine induced amnesia in Wistar rats.

Results
Mass spectroscopic characterization of coumarin fraction directed to the tentative identification of coumarins such as 7-hydroxy-6-methoxy coumarin, 7-hydroxycoumarin, 5-methoxy-6,7-furanocoumarin, 5,7-dimethoxycoumarin, and 6-hydroxy-7-methoxy-4-phenylcoumarin. Aqueous extract of I. mauritiana at a dose of 100 and 200 mg/kg showed significant anti-amnesic activity against scopolamine-induced changes in step through latency and working memory errors.

Conclusion
The findings of the study showed that I. mauritiana is a rich source of coumarins and possessed significant anti-amnesic activity. The study concluded the scientific basis of using I. mauritiana as rejuvenating drug in Ayurveda.

Graphical abstract
Residual Adrenal Function in Autoimmune Addison’s Disease—Effect of Dual Therapy With Rituximab and Depot Tetracosactide
Authors: Napier Catherine , Gan Earn H , Mitchell Anna L , Gilligan Lorna C , Rees D Aled , Moran Carla , Chatterjee Krishna , Vaidya Bijay , James R Andrew , Mamoojee Yaasir , Ashwell Simon , Arlt Wiebke , Pearce Simon H S 
Published: December 2019

Abstract

Context
In autoimmune Addison’s disease (AAD), exogenous glucocorticoid (GC) therapy is an imperfect substitute for physiological GC secretion. Patients on long-term steroid replacement have increased morbidity, reduced life expectancy, and poorer quality of life.

Objective
The objective of this article is to restore adrenocortical steroidogenic function in recent-onset AAD.

Design
An open-label, multicenter trial of immunotherapy and trophic stimulation in new-onset AAD was conducted. Serial measurement of serum and urine corticosteroids at baseline and throughout a 72-week follow-up period was performed.

Setting
This study was conducted at the

endocrine departments and clinical research facilities at 5 UK tertiary centers.

Patients
Thirteen participants (9 female, 4 male; age 19-64 years) were included with AAD confirmed by high adrenocorticotropin, low circulating cortisol (basal &lt; 100 nmol/L or post-tetracosactide &lt; 300 nmol/L), and positive serum 21-hydroxylase antibodies.

Intervention
All participants received dual therapy with B-lymphocyte–depleting immunotherapy (rituximab 1 g given twice) and repeated depot tetracosactide (1 mg on alternate days for 12 weeks).

Main Outcome Measure
Restoration of normal GC secretion (stimulated cortisol &gt; 550 nmol/L) at week 48 was the main outcome measure.

Results
Ten of 13 (77%) participants had detectable stimulated serum cortisol (26-265 nmol/L) at trial entry. Following intervention, 7 of 13 (54%) had an increase in stimulated cortisol measurement, with a peak response of 325 nmol/L at week 18 in 1 participant. Increased steroid metabolites, assayed by urine gas chromatography–mass spectrometry at week 12 and week 48, was detected in 8 of 13 (62%) individuals, reflecting an increase in endogenous steroidogenesis. Four of 13 had residual adrenal function at 72 weeks.

Conclusion
Combined treatment with rituximab and depot tetracosactide did not restore normal adrenal function. Nevertheless, adrenocortical plasticity is demonstrated in some patients, and this has the potential to be exploited to improve adrenal function.
Th1 Chemokines in Autoimmune Endocrine Disorders
Authors: Fallahi Poupak , Ferrari Silvia Martina , Ragusa Francesca , Ruffilli Ilaria , Elia Giusy , Paparo Sabrina Rosaria , Antonelli Alessandro 
Published: December 2019

AbstractContextThe CXC chemokine receptor CXCR3 and its chemokines CXCL10, CXCL9, and CXCL11 are implicated in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. Here, we review these chemokines in autoimmune thyroiditis (AT), Graves disease (GD), thyroid eye disease (TED), type 1 diabetes (T1D), and Addison’s disease (AAD).Evidence AcquisitionA PubMed review of the literature was conducted, searching for the above-mentioned chemokines in combination with AT, GD, TED, T1D, and AAD.Evidence SynthesisThyroid follicular cells in AT and GD, retroorbital cells in TED (fibroblasts, preadipocytes, myoblasts), β cells and islets in T1D, and adrenal cells in AAD respond to interferon-γ (IFN-γ) stimulation producing large amounts of these chemokines. Furthermore, lymphocytes and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) are in part responsible for the secreted Th1 chemokines. In AT, GD, TED, T1D, and AAD, the circulating levels of these chemokines have been shown to be high. Furthermore, these chemokines have been associated with the early phases of the autoimmune response in all the above-mentioned disorders. High levels of these chemokines have been associated also with the “active phase” of the disease in GD, and also in TED. Other studies have shown an association with the severity of hypothyroidism in AD, of hyperthyroidism in GD, with severity of TED, or with fulminant T1D.ConclusionThe reviewed data have shown the importance of the Th1 immune response in different endocrine autoimmune diseases, and many studies have suggested that CXCR3 and its chemokines might be considered as potential targets of new drugs for the treatment of these disorders.
Developing specialist nursing practice: participants' experiences of a nursing scholarship programme
Authors: Burch Jennie , Taylor Claire 
Published: December 2019

Background: In recognising the difficulties that many nurses face in developing their knowledge and skills to specialist level, alongside the continued demand for specialist nursing roles, it is essential to find ways to build the next generation of specialist nurses. A specially designed nursing scholarship programme was devised to address this issue. Feedback from the scholars' perspective is presented to demonstrate the benefits and enablers of, as well as barriers to, undertaking such a programme. Methods: Six scholars were each interviewed at the beginning and end of their scholarship periods, and 12 semi-structured interviews were completed and summarised. Data were examined using thematic analysis. Findings: Examination of the interview data revealed which key aspects of the scholarship programme the scholars believed had helped develop their specialist nursing practice. Factors that enabled the development of clinical, academic and specialist skills, as well as perceived improvements in personal attributes, were identified. The main barriers highlighted were lack of knowledge, experience and confidence. The benefits of this scholarship programme were evident, with all six feeling ready to be a specialist nurse and to secure a specialist role at the end of the programme. Conclusions: Through a carefully planned and supported educational and clinical programme, it is possible to develop specialist nurses for the future. For this development to occur, it is essential to have supportive colleagues and a structured programme designed to develop the necessary skills and attributes required in a specialist nursing role.
The Public Choice Perspective
Authors: Buchanan James M. 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
La Public Choice non può essere considerata un metodo (almeno nel significato usuale del termine), e neanche un insieme di strumenti.
Essa è una «prospettiva » sulla politica che emerge dall'estensione e applicazione di strumenti e metodi economici alle decisioni non di mercato. I suoi due principali elementi sono costituiti dall'aspetto dello scambio e dal postulato delYhomo oeconotnicus.
Il paradigma dello scambio, quando si superi l'ipotesi dello scambio semplice tra due individui e si tenga conto dello scambio complesso che ha luogo quando i partecipanti alia trattativa sono piu numerosi, consente di studiare tutti i processi di accordo volontario tra individui. È su di esso, piuttosto che sul paradigma oggi prevalente della massimizzazione, che dovrebbe concentrarsi l'attenzione degli economisti.
Da questo mutamento di prospettiva nell'ambito d'indagine della teoria economica, deriva che non si puo individuare una precisa linea di confine tra «economia » e «politica” e, quindi, neanche tra settore privato e settore pubblico.
Sulla base del paradigma dello scambio, gli economisti non sono tenuti a limitare le loro indagini al comportamento individuale nell'ambito del mercato, ma possono estenderlo all'azione collettiva, considerandola come processo di scambio complesso tra i membri della collettività.
Dalla visione della politica come attività di scambio emerge naturalmente la prospettiva costituzionale. Per migliorare il sistema politico è necessario migliorare le « regole », la struttura entro cui ha luogo il giuoco politico, senza limitarsi a suggerire che il miglioramento possa essere rinvenuto nella selezione di agenti moralmente superiori. Un giuoco è descritto dalle sue regole, e un giuoco migliore è prodotto soltanto mediante un mutamento di regole.
Il secondo aspetto della Public Choice, il postulato di comportamento noto come homo oeconotnicus, è parte del patrimonio intellettuale della teoria economica e sulla sua base generazioni di economisti hanno studiato il mercato, senza però pensare (salvo qualche anticipazione), fino ad epoca recente, ad applicarlo alia politica.
Quando si assume che gli individui che operano nell'ambito politico siano motivate da interessi personali, come negli altri aspetti del loro comportamento, l'obiettivo costituzionale diventa quello di costruire istituzioni che limitino
Comportamento dei soggetti e regolamentazione nella teoria della politica economica
Authors: Palmerio Giovanni 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Models of economic policy are usually based on the «targets-tools» scheme. They concentrate on the tools which regulate aggregate demand such as fiscal policy, monetary and credit policy, exchange-rate policy. But they overlook the reactions of the agents of the economic system, and particularly of organized social groups, to economic policies; they overlook the decision-making process of government and of the public entities which put in practice economic policies; and they do not consider the supply factors.
Analyzing these points, this article shows how the reactions of the agents can be embodied in an analytical model. It shows also how basic the analysis of the governmental decision-making process is to evaluate the efficiency and the impact of economic policies. Finally it shows how largely supply is determined by legal and administrative factors. In conclusion, regulation (or deregulation) is a very important instrumental variable which needs to be embodied into the models of economic policy.