bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Assessing whether cancer stage is needed to evaluate measures of hospital surgical performance
Authors: Lavery Jessica A. , Lipitz‐Snyderman Allison , Li Diane G. , Bach Peter B. , Panageas Katherine S. 
Published: May 2019

AbstractRational, aims, and objectivesWhile public reports of hospital‐level surgical quality measures are becoming increasingly common in health care, a comprehensive national assessment of surgical quality across multiple cancer sites has yet to be developed. Fee‐for‐service (FFS) Medicare claims present a potential resource from which to measure outcomes following cancer surgery given the national scope of patients and providers. However, due to the administrative nature of the data, clinical cancer information such as stage is not recorded. Leveraging the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) registry linked to FFS Medicare claims to analyse outcomes for patients whom we ultimately know stage information, we determined whether Medicare claims are suitable for measuring provider quality following cancer surgery by assessing the extent to which the lack of stage information modifies assessments of provider performance.MethodsWe identified patients aged 66 and older undergoing cancer surgery between 2011 and 2013 from SEER‐Medicare. We compared the changes in the risk‐standardized rates (RSRs), decile rankings, and c‐statistics with and without risk adjustment for cancer stage for three measures of hospital performance: 30‐day mortality, surgical complications, and unplanned readmissions.ResultsThe RSR changed by at most 11.4% for mortality and by less than 4% for complications and readmissions, indicating that measures of hospital performance were stable with and without adjustment for stage. The relative performance of hospitals was also stable, as demonstrated by fewer than 20% of hospitals changing decile rank. The c‐statistic declined by less than 2% across all measures, indicating that model fit was not substantially worsened without this information.ConclusionThese findings support the use of FFS Medicare claims for hospital‐level analyses of short‐term outcomes following cancer surgery. Quality reporting based on these analyses can be used to help patients choose among hospitals and for evaluating policies to improve surgical cancer care.
LABOR LAWS AND CORPORATE INVESTMENT
Authors: Marciukaityte Dalia 
Published: May 2019

AbstractIn the United States, the costs of unionized labor are higher in states without right‐to‐work (RTW) laws. I show that unionized firms located in these states invest less. These firms have about 4 percentage point lower capital expenditures (normalized by net property, plant, and equipment) than other firms. I confirm these findings by examining a natural experiment created by the adoption of RTW laws in Oklahoma and examining union certification elections using regression discontinuity design.
Improving the three‐dimensional printability of taro paste by the addition of additives
Authors: Huang Meng‐sha , Zhang Min , Bhandari Bhesh , Liu Yaping 
Published: May 2019

AbstractThe aim of this study was to explore the 3D printing ability of taro paste affected by five different food additives (sodium alginate [SA], sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, xanthan gum, guar gum, and whey protein). Rheological tests indicated that all samples showed shear‐thinning behavior and the apparent viscosity, storage modulus G′, and loss modulus G″ were all improved. The texture and moisture distribution were also affected by different additives. Samples added with SA exhibited the best performance on printing behavior with smooth outlook and less dimensional variability of printed cuboids (−0.76%, −0.60%, −0.50% in length, width, and height, respectively). Taking printing time and quality of printed cuboids into account, a nozzle diameter of 0.84 mm, a nozzle moving speed of 25 mm/s, and a extrusion rate of 13 mm3/s were considered to be the suitable parameters.Practical ApplicationsCompared with the normal food mixed system for 3D printing, the results indicated that taro–gum mixtures showed shear‐thinning behavior, apparent viscosity, printing behavior with smooth outlook, and less dimensional variability of printed cuboids were all improved, which is hopeful for further application in 3D food printing.
Three‐dimensional damage morphologies of thermomechanically deformed sintered nanosilver die attachments for power electronics modules
Authors: AGYAKWA P. , DAI J. , LI J. , MOUAWAD B. , YANG L. , CORFIELD M. , JOHNSON C.M. 
Published: May 2019

SummaryA time‐lapse study of thermomechanical fatigue damage has been undertaken using three‐dimensional X‐ray computer tomography. Morphologies were extracted from tomography data and integrated with data from microscopy modalities at different resolution levels. This enables contextualization of some of the fine‐scale properties which underpin the large‐scale damage observed via tomography. Lateral views of crack development are presented, which show networks analogous to mud‐cracks. Crack fronts which develop in the most porous regions within the sintered attachment layer travel across the boundary into the copper substrate. The propagation characteristics of these cracks within the substrate are analysed. Evidence is provided of heterogeneous densification within the sintered joint under power cycling, and this is shown to play a major role in driving the initiation and propagation of the cracks. Examination of the texture (differing levels of X‐ray absorption) of virtual cross‐sectional images reveals the origins of the nonuniformity of densification. Finally, cracks within the sintered joint are shown to have a negligible impact on the conduction pathway of the joint due to their aspect ratio and orientation with respect to the assembly.Lay DescriptionThis paper concerns the use of three‐dimensional (3D) X‐ray tomography, a nondestructive technique, to perform cradle‐to‐grave studies of sintered nanosilver die‐attachments under operation. Sintered nanosilver die‐attachments have been proposed as a more reliable and environmentally friendly alternative to solder alloy joints for emerging power electronics module designs. However, their degradation mechanisms are not as well understood. This same sample‐study is about observing how the fine‐scale structure of a sintered attachment evolves and degrades over time. Using 3D tomography affords otherwise infeasible perspectives, such as virtual cross‐sections in the lateral plane of the attachment. These perspectives provide qualitative information which elucidates the degradation mechanisms. They demonstrate, for example, that the structure of the sintered attachment densifies under operation, and a consequence of this is the formation of shrinkage cracks in the most porous regions, much like mud‐cracks. Other imaging techniques (metallographic etching and scanning electron microscopy) have been used in correlation with 3D renderings of these cracks to analyse their propagation and reveal their relationship both with the internal structure of the sintered attachment itself, and the structure of the substrate to which it is joined. It is shown that the cracks develop within the sintered attachment layer and eventually cross over into the substrate. A comparison of two sintered attachments with contrasting bulk porosities allows the effect of initial bond quality on crack development to be examined.
How is alpha‐synuclein cleared from the cell?
Authors: Stefanis Leonidas , Emmanouilidou Evangelia , Pantazopoulou Marina , Kirik Deniz , Vekrellis Kostas , Tofaris George K. 
Published: May 2019

AbstractThe levels and conformers of alpha‐synuclein are critical in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's Disease and related synucleinopathies. Homeostatic mechanisms in protein degradation and secretion have been identified as regulators of alpha‐synuclein at different stages of its intracellular trafficking and transcellular propagation. Here we review pathways involved in the removal of various forms of alpha‐synuclein from both the intracellular and extracellular environment. Proteasomes and lysosomes are likely to play complementary roles in the removal of intracellular alpha‐synuclein species, in a manner that depends on alpha‐synuclein post‐translational modifications. Extracellular alpha‐synuclein is cleared by extracellular proteolytic enzymes, or taken up by neighboring cells, especially microglia and astrocytes, and degraded within lysosomes. Exosomes, on the other hand, represent a vehicle for egress of excess burden of the intracellular protein, potentially contributing to the transfer of alpha‐synuclein between cells. Dysfunction in any one of these clearance mechanisms, or a combination thereof, may be involved in the initiation or progression of Parkinson's disease, whereas targeting these pathways may offer an opportunity for therapeutic intervention.
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This article is part of the Special Issue “Synuclein”.
Nurses' practices in the preparation and administration of intramuscular injections in mental health: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Legrand Guillaume , Guiguet‐Auclair Candy , Viennet Hervé , Aumeran Claire , Reynaud Dominique , Badrikian Laurence , Debost‐Legrand Anne 
Published: May 2019

AbstractBackgroundIntramuscular injections (IMIs) remain a frequent practice in mental health. Few studies have examined the issue of nurses' practices concerning IMI in this domain, and none considered specifically hygiene. Finally, no study appears to have looked at emergency situations and their possible influence on practices. The principal objective of our study was to assess the practices associated with IMI in mental health, especially the hygiene‐related practices. The secondary objectives were as follows: 1) to assess the practices for the preparation and administration of IMI in mental health for criteria other than hygiene and 2) to determine whether professional experience and emergency situations influence these practices.DesignSingle‐centre cross‐sectional study in a psychiatric Hospital and adherence to the STROBE guidelines.MethodsThe participating nurses all worked with inpatients, and all volunteered for the study. A self‐administered questionnaire was sent to all participants. The questionnaire included questions about knowledge and practices associated with IMI, some considered in two different situations: emergencies and planned injections. The distribution of the responses was tested by the chi‐squared test or Fisher's exact test, as appropriate, or by McNemar's chi‐squared test or Friedman's nonparametric chi‐squared test for matched data.ResultsResponse rate was 48.6%. Overall, 81% of nurses reported correct handwashing before preparation, 87.5% responded that the dorsogluteal site is currently recommended for IMI, and 74.6% that they did not know the "Z track" technique. In planned injections, 58.7% reported that the choice of needle was determined, at least in part, by the patient's body mass index. In emergency situations, adherence to guidelines was less frequent for all types of practices.ConclusionsThis study shows the need to improve practices for the frequently used procedure of IMI among mental health nurses.Relevance to clinical practiceBetter professional education appears necessary to develop optimal practices, especially in emergency situations.
Increasing incidence of oral cancer in Hong Kong—Who, where…and why?
Authors: Choi Siu‐Wai , Thomson Peter 
Published: May 2019

AbstractBackgroundOral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a lethal and deforming disease of rising incidence and global significance; 600 000 new cases are seen each year, including 40 000 in China. Despite advances in management, 50% of patients die within 5 years of diagnosis. Cancer is the leading cause of death in Hong Kong, with the Hong Kong Cancer Registry (HKCR) confirming a 2% increase in new cases each year, and oral SCC the tenth leading cause of cancer death in males. Strategies to improve clinical outcome require identification and early intervention in the “high‐risk” population. Unfortunately, demographic information is limited in HKCR making it difficult to undertake accurate population‐based studies. This study aimed to profile contemporaneous demographics of oral cancer within the Hong Kong population.MethodsFollowing local ethical approval, the Hong Kong Hospital Authority (HA) database was accessed to identify new cases of oral SCC diagnosed and treated during an 18‐year period (January 2000 to December 2017).ResultsA total of 6706 oral cavity SCC cases were identified: 4291 male and 2415 female patients (with a mean age of 64.14 years). A trend for increasing number of cases each year was seen, with most patients presenting to hospitals on the Kowloon Peninsula and Hong Kong Island. The tongue was the most commonly affected oral site in 3168 patients, with tonsil (863), buccal mucosa (539) and floor of mouth (409) less common. Mean survival time between initial diagnosis and death was 1.95 years; patients with hard palate and oropharyngeal SCC survived the shortest period, whilst labio‐buccal and vestibular cases exhibited significantly longer survival (P < 0.0001).ConclusionWhilst useful HA data are available regarding age, sex, site and outcome, there is a need for further improvement in demographic profiling to characterise the “high‐risk” oral cancer population in Hong Kong and to facilitate targeted early therapeutic intervention.
Gender‐Bashing in Adolescents: Structural Relations with Heterosexual Matrix, Racism/Xenophobia and Attitudes Toward Bullying
Authors: Carrera‐Fernández María V. , Cid‐Fernández Xosé M. , Almeida Ana , González‐Fernández Antonio , Rodríguez Castro Yolanda 
Published: May 2019

ABSTRACTBACKGROUNDThis study examined the combined influence of gender variables (specifically gender stereotypes, sexism, and genderism/transphobia) as well as racism/xenophobia and attitudes toward bullying roles on gender‐bashing.METHODSA trans‐cultural sample of 2410 Spanish and Portuguese students participated in the study (mean age = 15.13). Structural equation modeling and multiple group analyses were used to examine the relationships among variables.RESULTSThe model revealed a good fit with the data for the whole sample. Results showed that instrumentality, hostile sexism, genderism/transphobia, racism/xenophobia, and positive attitudes toward the bully were positively correlated with gender‐bashing. An inverse pattern was also observed: expressiveness, benevolent sexism, and positive attitudes toward the defender were negatively correlated with gender‐bashing. Overall, the eight variables explained 48% of the variance of gender‐bashing. Structural relationships among the assessed constructs were equivalent for girls and boys, and for Spain and Portugal.CONCLUSIONSThese results reveal the need to implement inclusive educational policies to improve school health, which promote expressiveness, egalitarian attitudes, and sexual and cultural diversity.
Dual Identity, Minority Group Pressure, and the Endorsement of Minority Rights: A Study among Sunni and Alevi Muslim in Western Europe
Authors: Cárdenas Diana 
Published: May 2019

AbstractResearch has found that migrants with strong dual identities (e.g., Muslim German) are more likely to endorse the rights of their minority group. This article aims to contribute to the literature by examining whether dual identity predicts stronger endorsement of minority rights when migrants perceive pressure to conform from their minority community. This is examined in two subgroups that tend to exert different pressures: Alevi and Sunni Muslims. Muslim migrants (n Sunni = 464; n Alevi = 235) in Germany and the Netherlands answered questions about dual identity, endorsement of Muslim rights, and perceived minority pressure. For Alevi Muslims, dual identity predicted greater minority rights as minority pressure increased. For Sunni Muslims, the opposite pattern was found, with dual identity predicting less minority rights as minority pressure increased. These findings highlight the importance of studying different minority communities, and their pressures, to understand the societal ramifications of dual identities.
The role of sarcopenia in patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: Prognostic marker or hyped parameter?
Authors: Hahn Felix , Müller Lukas , Stöhr Fabian , Mähringer‐Kunz Aline , Schotten Sebastian , Düber Christoph , Bartsch Fabian , Lang Hauke , Galle Peter R , Weinmann Arndt , Kloeckner Roman 
Published: May 2019

AbstractBackground & AimsSarcopenia has emerged as a prognostic parameter in numerous cancer entities. Current research favours its role as a determining factor for overall survival (OS) in patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC); however, it is unclear whether sarcopenia is a truly independent survival predictor if combined with established prognostic factors.MethodsBetween 1997‐2018, 417 patients with histopathologically confirmed ICC were referred to our centre, of whom 293 were included in this study. Cross‐sectional imaging, laboratory examinations and histopathological reports were retrospectively analysed. Psoas muscle index (PMI) as easy‐to‐measure marker of sarcopenia was calculated. Using optimal stratification, sex‐specific PMI cut‐offs were calculated and tested in hazard regression models against previously published risk factors—for the entire cohort, and within resected and non‐resected subgroups.ResultsMedian OS for patients with low respectively high PMI was 23.5 and 34.5 months in the resected subgroup (P = 0.008) and 5.1 and 7.8 months (P = 0.01) in the non‐resected subgroup. In multivariate hazard regression models for the entire cohort, low PMI exhibited independent predictive value (P = 0.01) as did translobar tumour spread (P = 0.005), extrahepatic extension (P = 0.03), tumour boundary type (P < 0.001), carbohydrate antigen 19‐9 (CA 19‐9) levels (P = 0.001), alkaline phosphatase levels (P = 0.001) and distant metastasis (P < 0.001). In subgroup analyses, low PMI remained predictive among non‐resected patients (P = 0.03), but lost its predictive value among resected patients (P = 0.15).ConclusionsPsoas muscle index strongly predicted OS in univariate analysis. However, addition of established risk factors eliminated its predictive value among resected patients. Thus, when resection is deemed oncologically reasonable, patients should not be excluded from surgery because of sarcopenia alone.
Comparison of FT‐IR spectra of bulk and acid insoluble organic matter in chondritic meteorites: An implication for missing carbon during demineralization
Authors: Kebukawa Yoko , Alexander Conel M. O'D. , Cody George D. 
Published: May 2019

AbstractPast studies of the various separable carbonaceous fractions have been unable to account for all of C in primitive chondrites. In particular, up to 20–50% of the C is lost during acid leaching of bulk samples even after the C in carbonates and soluble organic matter is accounted for. To try to better characterize the nature of this “missing C,” we have compared the bulk infrared (IR) absorption spectra of a number of primitive chondrites with those of their previously reported insoluble organic matter (IOM). The aliphatic C–H stretching bands, in particular, allow us to compare the molecular structures of bulk C with that of IOM. The spectral differences between bulk C and IOM reflect “missing C” phases that were lost during acid leaching, although we cannot completely exclude the possibility that the OM was modified after demineralization. Comparing IR spectra of bulk meteorite powder and IOM suggests that the missing C varies in its molecular structure, and that mildly thermally metamorphosed type 3 chondrites tend to be richer in an aliphatic fraction with lower CH2/CH3 ratios, relative to IOM, compared to aqueously altered carbonaceous chondrites (CI/CM/CR). The missing C is most likely released from acid‐labile functional groups, such as esters, acetals, and amides, during demineralization, although it cannot be ruled out that some fraction of the missing C is in small grains that are difficult to recover from suspension, or in water‐soluble compounds trapped in phyllosilicates.
The occurrence of red and yellow autumn leaves explained by regional differences in insolation and temperature
Authors: Renner Susanne S. , Zohner Constantin M. 
Published: May 2019

SummaryRed or yellow autumn leaves have long fascinated biologists, but their geographical concentration in trees in Eastern North America (ENA) has defied evolutionary explanations. In this review, anthocyanins and xanthophylls are discussed in relation to their occurrence in different regions of the Northern Hemisphere, phylogenetic distribution and photoprotective function during the breakdown of chlorophylls. Pigments in senescing leaves that intercept incident light and dissipate the absorbed energy extend the time available for nutrient resorption. Experiments with Arabidopsis have revealed greatest anthocyanin photoprotective function at low temperatures and high light intensities, and high‐resolution solar irradiation maps reveal that ENA and Asia receive higher irradiation than does Europe. In addition, ENA experiences higher temperature fluctuations in autumn, resulting in cold snaps during leaf senescence. Under common garden conditions, chlorophyll degradation occurs earlier in ENA species than in their European and East Asian relatives. In combination, strong solar irradiation, temperature fluctuations and, on average, 3‐wk shorter vegetation periods of ENA species favour investment in pigments to extend the time for nutrient resorption before abscission, explaining the higher frequency of coloured species in ENA compared to Europe. We end by outlining research that could test this new explanation of bright New England autumns.
N6‐methyladenosine regulatory machinery in plants: composition, function and evolution
Authors: Yue Hong , Nie Xiaojun , Yan Zhaogui , Weining Song 
Published: May 2019

SummaryN6‐methyladenosine (m6A) RNA methylation, one of the most pivotal internal modifications of RNA, is a conserved post‐transcriptional mechanism to enrich and regulate genetic information in eukaryotes. The scope and function of this modification in plants has been an intense focus of study, especially in model plant systems. The characterization of plant m6A writers, erasers and readers, as well as the elucidation of their functions, is currently one of the most fascinating hotspots in plant biology research. The functional analysis of m6A in plants will be booming in the foreseeable future, which could contribute to crop genetic improvement through epitranscriptome manipulation. In this review, we systematically analysed and summarized recent advances in the understanding of the structure and composition of plant m6A regulatory machinery, and the biological functions of m6A in plant growth, development and stress response. Finally, our analysis showed that the evolutionary relationships between m6A modification components were highly conserved across the plant kingdom.