bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Microarray Analysis of circRNA Expression Pattern in Corneal Neovascularization
Authors: Zhou Yun-Fan , Shi Lian-Jun , Yao Jin , Sun Ya-Nan , Shan Kun , Jiang Qin , Yan Biao 
Published: August 2019

Purpose:
To identify differentially expressed circular RNAs (circRNAs) in corneal neovascularization.

Methods:
We established an alkali burn-induced corneal neovascularization model and performed circRNA expression profiling to identify differentially expressed circRNAs between avascular corneas and vascularized corneas. Gene ontology enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analyses of the host genes of dysregulated circRNAs were performed to determine the related biological modules and pathological pathways. Real-time polymerase chain reactions were performed to detect the expression pattern of circRNAs in the clinical samples. In vitro experiments were performed to determine the role of circRNAs in vascular endothelial angiogenic effects.

Results:
Two hundred twenty-nine circRNAs were differentially expressed between avascular corneas and vascularized corneas. The host genes of dysregulated circRNAs were targeted to cell cycle (biologic process), cytoplasm (cellular component), and protein binding (molecular function). Rap1 signaling was identified as the most enriched signaling pathway. Clinical studies showed that the human ortholog of cZFP609 and cKifap3 was dysregulated in the vascularized human corneas. cKifap3 silencing facilitated vascular endothelial angiogenic effects by regulating endothelial cell proliferation, migration, and tube formation.

Conclusions:
This study suggests that circRNAs are involved in the pathogenesis of corneal neovascularization. cZFP609 and cKifap3 may serve as promising targets for the treatment of corneal neovascularization.
In Vitro Evaluation of the Feasibility of Slit-Lamp Nd:YAG Laser Descemetorhexis
Authors: Dragnea Diana C. , Ní Dhubhghaill Sorcha , Bourgonje Vincent J.A. , Dapena Isabel , Oellerich Silke , Melles Gerrit R.J. , Lavy Itay 
Published: August 2019

Purpose:
To evaluate in vitro the feasibility and tissue effects of using a slit-lamp neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser to create a central descemetorhexis in human donor corneas.

Methods:
Twelve human donor corneas ineligible for transplantation were divided into 2 groups, A and B. Group A: 2 “healthy” corneas, which were used to validate the laser parameters; group B: 10 corneas with endothelial guttae, which were used to perform a 4-mm descemetorhexis. Slit-lamp photography, light microscopy, corneal endothelial microscopy, Scheimpflug imaging, optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging, and histological staining were performed to visualize the efficacy of slit-lamp Nd:YAG laser removal of Descemet membrane and to assess potential tissue damage to the overlying stroma and peripheral endothelium.

Results:
In all corneas, an Nd:YAG laser 4-mm central descemetorhexis could be consistently performed. The total energy required ranged from 1143 to 2784 mJ. Side effects such as stromal pitting and corneal swelling were observed.

Conclusions:
Creating a central descemetorhexis with a slit-lamp Nd:YAG laser proved feasible in vitro. This new technical approach might open the door to a customized in vivo “descemetorhexis-only” treatment for Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy eyes, while avoiding the risks associated with intraocular surgery.
Antecolic reconstruction is associated with a lower incidence of delayed gastric emptying compared to retrocolic technique after Whipple or pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Qiu Jianguo , Li Ming , Du Chengyou 
Published: August 2019

Abstract

Background:
The aim of present study is to investigate the relationship between the antecolic (AC) route of gastrojejunostomy (GJ) after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) or duodenojejunostomy (DJ) reconstruction after pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy (PPPD), and the incidence of delayed gastric emptying (DGE).

Methods:
An electronic search of 4 databases to identify all articles comparing AC and retrocolic (RC) reconstruction after PD or PPPD was performed.

Results:
Fifteen studies involving 2270 patients were included for final pooled analysis. The overall incidence of DGE was 27.2%. Meta-analysis results showed AC group had lower incidence of DGE (odds ratio, 0.29; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.16–0.52, P < .0001) and shorter hospital length of stay (weight mean difference, −3.29; 95% CI, −5.2 to −1.39, P = .0007). Days until to liquid and solid diet in the AC group were also significantly earlier than that in the RC group (P = .0006 and P < .0001). There was no difference in operative time, incidence of pancreatic fistula and bile leakage, and mortality, respectively.

Conclusions:
AC route of GJ after PD or DJ after PPPD is associated with a lower incidence of DGE. However, the preferred route for GJ or DJ reconstruction remains to be investigated in well-powered, randomized, controlled trial.
Urethral diverticular with broadly squamous metaplasia in a patient with urethral diverticular calculi
Authors: Sun Yi , Tang Cai , Bai Yun-jin , Li Na , Yang Lu , Wei Qiang , Wei Xin , Shen Hong 
Published: August 2019

Abstract

Rationale:
There are already several reports concerning the occurrence of urethral diverticulum (UD) in female patients, but only rarely has a article describing UD combined with UD calculi or squamous carcinoma been published. Moreover, a case with squamous carcinoma and UD calculi at the same time has never been reported, making this the first case report about this condition.

Patient concerns:
A 43-year-old woman presented to the gynaecology department with a complaint of a hard mass beneath the anterior vaginal wall.

Diagnoses:
Transvaginal ultrasound (TVU) revealed a UD.

Interventions:
We performed a standard urethral diverticular excision. Intraoperatively, we identified and removed a stone from the diverticulum. The intraoperative finding of a stone challenged the diagnosis of UD, with subsequent histological examination of biopsy tissue from the mass demonstrating broadly squamous metaplasia.

Outcomes:
The broadly squamous metaplasia predominantly originated from the stone, and the stone was entirely removed. No complications occurred during the whole follow-up period. Moreover, after the 12-month follow-up, there was no diverticular recurrence or carcinoma metastasis.

Lessons:
UD calculi may be considered a risk factor for female urethra squamous metaplasia, which with the potential of squamous carcinoma, so patients will be advised to treat this condition immediately.
Diagnosis accuracy of Raman spectroscopy in colorectal cancer
Authors: Zheng Qiang , Kang Weibiao , Chen Changyu , Shi Xinxin , Yang Yang , Yu Changjun 
Published: August 2019

Abstract

Background:
The clinical significance of Raman spectroscopy (RS) in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients still remains underestimated. We performed this meta-analysis to elucidate the diagnostic value in CRC patients.

Methods:
We systematically searched electronic databases for published articles. Fixed effect model and random effect model were used to calculate the pooled sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic accuracy, positive likelihood ratio (PLR), negative likelihood ratio (NLR), diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) and positive posttest probability (PPP) of CRC. Meta-regression and subgroup analysis were conducted to assess potential source of heterogeneity. We also used Egger linear regression tests to assess risk of publication bias.

Results:
Thirteen studies had been included (679 patients: 186 with premalignant lesions and 493 with malignant lesions). The pooled sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic accuracy, PLR, NLR, DOR and PPP for CRC screening using RS were 0.94 (0.92–0.96), 0.94 (0.88–0.97), 0.96 (0.94–0.98), 16.44 (7.80–34.63), 0.062 (0.043–0.090), 263.65 (99.03–701.96) and 86%, respectively.

Conclusion:
RS is a potentially useful tool for future CRC screening. It also offers potentially early detection for CRC patients.
Association between the persistent organic pollutants and polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Li Yan , Zhang Mei-wei , Wang Ying-ji 
Published: August 2019

Abstract

Background:
Current evidence concerning the association between persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is inconsistent. The aim of the present systematic review and meta-analysis is to evaluate the role of POPs in PCOS.

Methods:
Databases including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and CNKI will be searched to identify qualified studies. All qualified studies regarding the association between POPs and PCOS will be included. The primary outcome of the present study is POPs levels in serum of subjects. Pooled analysis with corresponding 95% confidence intervals will be performed.

Results:
The comprehensive analysis and quantitative assessment will provide a better understanding of POPs concentrations in patients with PCOS.

Conclusion:
This meta-analysis and systematic review will generate evidence of the association between POPs and PCOS.

PROSPERO registration number:
PROSPERO CRD42019126373
Poor glycemic control and associated factors among diabetic patients in Ethiopia; A Systemic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Teklehaimanot Berhane Fseha , Berhe Abadi kidanemariam , Welearegawi Gebrehiwot Gebremariam 
Published: August 2019

AbstractIntroductionThe major global public health problems now days are diabetes especially the burden is high in low income countries including Ethiopia due to the limited resource for screening and early diagnosis of the diabetes. To prevent diabetic complications including organ damage and micro vascular complications blood glucose level should be maintained at an optimum level. However there was no pooled national picture on poor glycemic control and its associated factors.MethodsDifferent data base searching engine including PubMed, Google scholar, the Cochrane library, MEDLINE,, HINARY and African journal online (AJOL) were used. The Joanna Briggs Critical Appraisal Tools and Newcastle Ottawa scale for assessing the quality of cross sectional studies were used for quality assessment. The meta-analysis was conducted using STATA 14 software. I2 statistic and egger weighted regression were used to assess heterogeneity and publication bias.ResultsA total of 134 studies were identified from different database searching engines and other sources. After removing for duplication, absence of abstract and review of the full text 12 studies were including in the meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of poor glycemic control among diabetic patients in Ethiopia is 64.72% with 95% confidence interval 63.16-66.28%. The sub group analysis of poor glycemic control among diabetic patients in different region of the country shows consistent and high prevalence of poor glycemic control ranging from 62.5% in Tigray region to 65.6% in Oromia region of the country. Residence, dyslipidemia and diet adherence were significantly association with poor glycemic control among diabetic patients in Ethiopia.ConclusionThe prevalence of poor glycemic control among diabetic patients was high in Ethiopia and consistent across different regions of the country. The most important factors associated with poor glycemic factor among diabetic patients were being rural residence, having dyslipidemia and not adhering to dietary plan.
ArrowSAM: In-Memory Genomics Data Processing Using Apache Arrow
Authors: Ahmad Tanveer , Ahmed Nauman , Peltenburg Johan , Al-Ars Zaid 
Published: August 2019

AbstractThe rapidly growing size of genomics data bases, driven by advances in sequencing technologies, demands fast and cost-effective processing. However, processing this data creates many challenges, particularly in selecting appropriate algorithms and computing platforms. Computing systems need data closer to the processor for fast processing. Traditionally, due to cost, volatility and other physical constraints of DRAM, it was not feasible to place large amounts of working data sets in memory. However, new emerging storage class memories allow storing and processing big data closer to the processor. In this work, we show how the commonly used genomics data format, Sequence Alignment/Map (SAM), can be presented in the Apache Arrow in-memory data representation to benefit of in-memory processing and to ensure better scalability through shared memory objects, by avoiding large (de)-serialization overheads in cross-language interoperability. To demonstrate the benefits of such a system, we propose ArrowSAM, an in-memory SAM format that uses the Apache Arrow framework, and integrate it into genome pre-processing pipelines including BWA-MEM, Picard and Sambamba. Results show 15x and 2.4x speedups as compared to Picard and Sambamba, respectively. The code and scripts for running all workflows are freely available at https://github.com/abs-tudelft/ArrowSAM.
MCL-1 inhibition by selective BH3 mimetics disrupts mitochondrial dynamics in iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes
Authors: Rasmussen Megan L. , Taneja Nilay , Neininger Abigail C. , Wang Lili , Shi Linzheng , Knollmann Bjorn C. , Burnette Dylan T. , Gama Vivian 
Published: August 2019

SummaryMCL-1 is a well characterized inhibitor of cell death that has also been shown to be a regulator of mitochondrial dynamics in human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs). We used cardiomyocytes derived from hPSCs (hPSC-CMs) to uncover whether MCL-1 is crucial for cardiac function and survival. Inhibition of MCL-1 by BH3 mimetics, resulted in the disruption of mitochondrial morphology and dynamics as well as disorganization of the actin cytoskeleton. Interfering with MCL-1 function affects the homeostatic proximity of DRP-1 and MCL-1 at the outer mitochondrial membrane, resulting in decreased functionality of hPSC-CMs. BH3 mimetics targeting MCL-1 are promising anti-tumor therapeutics. Cardiomyocytes display abnormal functional cardiac performance even after caspase inhibition, supporting a non-apoptotic activity of MCL-1 in hPSC-CMs. Progression towards using BCL-2 family inhibitors, especially targeting MCL-1, depends on understanding not only its canonical function in preventing apoptosis, but also in the maintenance of mitochondrial dynamics and function.
Robust scheduling in two-stage assembly flow shop problem with random machine breakdowns: integrated meta-heuristic algorithms and simulation approach
Authors: Tadayonirad Sahar , Seidgar Hany , Fazlollahtabar Hamed , Shafaei Rasoul 
Published: August 2019

Purpose
In real manufacturing systems, schedules are often disrupted with uncertainty factors such as random machine breakdown, random process time, random job arrivals or job cancellations. This paper aims to investigate robust scheduling for a two-stage assembly flow shop scheduling with random machine breakdowns and considers two objectives makespan and robustness simultaneously.

Design/methodology/approach
Owing to its structural and algorithmic complexity, the authors proposed imperialist competitive algorithm (ICA), genetic algorithm (GA) and hybridized with simulation techniques for handling these complexities. For better efficiency of the proposed algorithms, the authors used artificial neural network (ANN) to predict the parameters of the proposed algorithms in uncertain condition. Also Taguchi method is applied for analyzing the effect of the parameters of the problem on each other and quality of solutions.

Findings
Finally, experimental study and analysis of variance (ANOVA) is done to investigate the effect of different proposed measures on the performance of the obtained results. ANOVA's results indicate the job and weight of makespan factors have a significant impact on the robustness of the proposed meta-heuristics algorithms. Also, it is obvious that the most effective parameter on the robustness for GA and ICA is job.

Originality/value
Robustness is calculated by the expected value of the relative difference between the deterministic and actual makespan.
Impact of critical chain project management and product portfolio management on new product development performance
Authors: Luiz Octaviano Rojas , Souza Fernando Bernardi de , Luiz João Victor Rojas , Jugend Daniel , Salgado Manoel Henrique , Silva Sergio Luis da 
Published: August 2019

Purpose
This study aims to analyze the relationship between the adherence to critical chain project management (CCPM) practices and the new product development performance, in terms of the results of product development programs and product portfolio management (PPM).

Design/methodology/approach
A survey was conducted with 79 innovative companies operating in Brazil. Data were analyzed using correlation analysis and non-parametric tests.

Findings
Significant and positive correlations were found between CCPM adoption and the performance factors proposed. The adoption of CCPM offered stronger correlation with PPM performance than with the adoption of traditional methods. The results further indicate a possible indirect contribution of CCPM practices to the product development program by means of PPM improvement.

Originality/value
This study deepens the knowledge of the joint study between project management and new product development, by bringing empirical evidence that the adoption of specific practices suggested by CCPM is used by organizations with superior performance. Moreover, the results broaden CCPM literature by attesting that companies do not necessarily have to apply the CCPM approach in a formal and explicit way to obtain the performance results given. The analyses still have practical value when indicating which CCPM practices should be prioritized by managers seeking high performance in PPM.
Barriers to frontline manager support for high-trauma workers
Authors: Kellner Ashlea Kate , Townsend Keith , Loudoun Rebecca , Wilkinson Adrian 
Published: August 2019

Purpose
Exposure to high-trauma work has been associated with negative outcomes for individuals and organisations. Support for these employees can buffer and protect against mental health problems. Frontline managers (FLMs) are well placed to provide for employee support needs but are often not effective in doing so. The purpose of this paper is to identify and understand barriers to provision of four different types of social support as identified by House (1981) by FLMs to employees in a high-trauma workplace.

Design/methodology/approach
This qualitative study investigates three Australian ambulance service organisations, including 72 interviews.

Findings
Nine barriers to support are identified that can obstruct the provision of optimum employee support. These relate to the FLM themselves, the workplace context and employee-centric factors.

Research limitations/implications
This paper is a single industry case study; further complexity may exist in other high-trauma industries. Future research should consult policy makers to develop strategies to address the barriers to FLM support.

Practical implications
FLMs are critical support persons as they are well placed to provide many employee support needs. Emotional support is the foundation for facilitating all other types of support to employees but results here indicate it is often lacking for workers in high-trauma workplaces for a range of individual and organisational barriers that operate in isolation and combined.

Originality/value
This paper juxtaposes House’s (1981) support framework with study findings to provide a model of the barriers to optimal employee support. This model contributes to a reconceptualisation of the relationship between employee and direct manager that is particularly pertinent for high-trauma contexts.
The evolution of EU’s ‘self – presentation’: 1992-2016
Authors: Khalil Aliaa 
Published: August 2019

Purpose
This paper aims to investigate the ideological discourse in the EU's self-presentation, which will provide a new standpoint for scholars interested in analyzing the EU's foreign policy.

Design/methodology/approach
To understand how the EU perceives itself, the research investigates the Preamble of the Treaty of the European Union (Maastricht Treaty 1992) and its consolidated versions of 1997, 2002, 2006, 2008, 2010 and 2016. Investigation of the consolidated versions of the Maastricht treaty is important to understand how the Union came to develop the image of the Self throughout time and how the international context had affected EU’s self-image. The preambles are analyzed using the socio-cognitive approach to critical discourse analysis to examine the ideological discourse of self-presentation.

Findings
It can be concluded that the discourse used in the preamble reflects an ideological discourse used by the EU to present itself in positive ways. Such an ideological discourse emphasizes the differentiation between the in-group and out-group identification. Thus, it can suggest some implications that the EU holds a negative portray of the “Other” who do not hold the same characteristics, activities, goals, norms and values.

Originality/value
Understanding the possibility of such an ideological discourse can help researchers to adopt a new standpoint to analyze the EU’s foreign policy, which can help in providing new perspective for academic scholarly work.
The regional challenges affecting Kuwait’s national security
Authors: Alenezi Adnan 
Published: August 2019

Purpose
This study aims to scrutinize and analyze the regional challenges facing Kuwait and their impact on Kuwait’s national security since the outbreak of Arab Spring revolutions in 2011. These challenges are as follows: the Iranian threat, the Arab Spring revolutions and the recent Gulf crisis with Qatar.

Design/methodology/approach
The study adopts national interest approach, which focuses on a state’s economic, military and cultural objectives. According to this approach, a state seeks to achieve its own national interests. There are multiple national interests, but the ultimate goal is the survival and security of the state.

Findings
The study concludes that the Gulf countries, including Kuwait, are facing unprecedented challenges as a result of the dire consequences of the Arab Spring revolutions, the control of Houthi group on Yemen’s institutions and the repercussions of negotiations between 5 + 1 group (Russia, China, France, Britain, the USA + German) and Iran on the Iranian nuclear program. These developments are not in the interest of the Gulf countries in general and Kuwait in particular. The study recommends that Kuwait must adopt an external strategy based on achieving the regional balance with the countries of the region and dealing with different challenges according to its national interest.

Originality/value
The importance of the study stems from the fact that the Arab region witnessed many developments at the political, economic and social levels since the outbreak of the Arab Spring revolutions. These developments posed many threats to Arab countries such as the spread of terrorism, religious extremism, terrorist organizations and non-state actors. They also became a key determinant of foreign policy. Kuwait was affected by these developments. In addition, it faces threats affecting its national security such as the Iranian threat, the Arab Spring revolutions and the Gulf crisis with Qatar. The study addresses these threats and how Kuwait, as a small state, has dealt with such enormous ones.
Survey on technical efficiency in higher education: A meta‐fractional regression analysis
Authors: Villano Renato A. , Tran Carolyn‐Dung T. T. 
Published: August 2019

AbstractThere has been remarkable growth in the number of studies using data envelopment analysis (DEA) in research on higher education. Heterogeneous DEA models have been applied in assessing the performance of higher education institutions (HEIs), and the multi‐faceted production process of higher education has further motivated the extension and improvement of the DEA approach. The present study conducts a meta‐regression analysis of 109 published DEA applications in higher education at different levels of analysis to provide a better understanding of the relationship between the efficiency results and the attributes of the studies implemented in different nations.