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This Interpretative Phenomenological study seeks to unravel the experiences of infertile women regarding societal violence in Jordan. By focusing on different types of community violence - physical, psychological, and emotional - The study aims to provide nuanced insights into the challenges these women confront. It also endeavors to identify contributing factors, including societal attitudes, cultural beliefs, and individual encounters, while informing policy and practice to mitigate this issue. Methods: Employing a qualitative approach, this study conducted semi-structured interviews with purposively sampled infertile women. Thematic analysis was utilized to uncover recurring patterns and themes, facilitating a comprehensive exploration of their experiences. Results: Five main themes were identified: How the surrounding people view me as an infertile woman; I am suffocated by their questions; they interfere in the smallest details; I got burned and turned to ashes, and I have no right to complain; The problem of childbearing and the treatment plan is a matter for me and my husband only; and who supports me and what do I want from those around me? Implications: This study's implications are significant for policy and practice. By foregrounding the prevalent violence faced by infertile women, it underscores the urgency of interventions. Raising awareness, providing education, and extending support can counteract societal stigma and violence. Creating a more compassionate societal fabric can ensure a safer, more inclusive environment for these women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This Interpretative Phenomenological study seeks to unravel the experiences of infertile women regarding societal violence in Jordan. By focusing on different types of community violence - physical, psychological, and emotional - The study aims to provide nuanced insights into the challenges these women confront. It also endeavors to identify contributing factors, including societal attitudes, cultural beliefs, and individual encounters, while informing policy and practice to mitigate this issue. Methods: Employing a qualitative approach, this study conducted semi-structured interviews with purposively sampled infertile women. Thematic analysis was utilized to uncover recurring patterns and themes, facilitating a comprehensive exploration of their experiences. Results: Five main themes were identified: How the surrounding people view me as an infertile woman; I am suffocated by their questions; they interfere in the smallest details; I got burned and turned to ashes, and I have no right to complain; The problem of childbearing and the treatment plan is a matter for me and my husband only; and who supports me and what do I want from those around me? Implications: This study's implications are significant for policy and practice. By foregrounding the prevalent violence faced by infertile women, it underscores the urgency of interventions. Raising awareness, providing education, and extending support can counteract societal stigma and violence. Creating a more compassionate societal fabric can ensure a safer, more inclusive environment for these women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study focuses on the examination of the combustion behavior of Iraqi LPG-air mixtures, flame propagation, and the tulip flame phenomenon in tubes. A new experimental facility was designed and constructed, featuring a complete setup comprising a combustion chamber unit, ignition unit, fuel injection and control unit, mixture preparation unit, and flame imaging unit. The combustion process was initiated through ignition by an electric spark, and both experimental measurements and numerical simulations were conducted using various turbulence models, including the realizable k-e model, the k-e model, and the Launder Sharma k-e model. The study aimed to compare and validate the numerical results with empirical observations, specifically focusing on flame propagation velocity, peak pressures, and tulip flame formation. The investigation revealed that the k-e model exhibited the closest agreement with experimental findings, accurately capturing flame propagation dynamics and tulip flame formation. However, discrepancies were noted in the numerical simulations, attributed to the absence of a wrinkling factor in the laminar combustion model, leading to smoother flame boundaries compared to experimental flames. The research highlighted the influence of turbulence on flame propagation beyond the tulip flame zone, necessitating further inquiries and model refinements to improve predictive capabilities. The findings affirm the appropriateness of the k-e model in simulating the combustion process and provide valuable information for optimizing combustion efficiency andmitigating pollutant emissions. Future investigations will be essential to enhance turbulence models and advance the understanding of flame dynamics in confined environments. The comprehensive analysis of flame behavior presented in this study contributes to the advancement of combustion science and engineering, offering potential applications in various industrial and environmental settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beta thalassemia major (βTM) represents the most severe form of beta-thalassemia that is recessively inherited. The study started from January 2021 to October 2021 by collecting blood samples from a seventy-five (75) transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia major., 38 males and 37 females were registered at the center for thalassemia and inherited blood disorders, Shaheed Hemin teaching hospital, Sulaymaniyah, Kurdistan Iraq. Patients were divided into three groups. Each group included 25 patients whose ages ranged from (2 - 10), (11- 20) and (21 - 30) years, respectively. And 15 healthy subjects. Hematological parameters' ranges in βTM groups were mostly different from healthy controls group, where the present study showed a significant decrease (P ≤ 0.05) in values Hb, RBCs, HCT, MCV, MCH, and MCHC, in the patient group, compared with the control group. Also, Activated immune responses were detected and indicated by elevated levels of serum Interleukin- 6 IL-6 and IL-1β in patients with βTM. Mean serum levels of adipokines plasminogen, and Hipcidin were significantly higher (P ≤ 0.01) in βTM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this manuscript, we report a successful synthesis and characterization of pure ZnO (ZO), Mn/Ni (ZMNO), and Mn/Co (ZMCO) co-doped ZnO nanoparticles which were prepared using low-cost and simple sol–gel auto-combustion method. These nanoparticles were analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier-transform infra-red (FTIR) spectroscopy for structural properties, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) along with energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy for morphological analysis, and UV–Vis and photoluminescence spectroscopy for optical investigations. XRD and FTIR measurements substantiated that each sample is crystallized in the single-phase polycrystalline wurtzite hexagonal geometry of ZnO nanoparticles. The average crystallite size inferred from XRD spectra is found to be in the decreasing order of ~ 39 nm (ZO), ~ 38 nm (ZMNO), and ~ 37 nm (ZMCO), along with a significant reduction in the optical bandgap from 3.26 to 3.04 to 2.86 eV. The SEM images show that the nanostructures in the prepared samples are arranged in an agglomerated spherical patterns, while the EDX spectra signify the presence of Zn, Mn, Ni, Co, and O elements in the synthesized samples with their substantial percentage. The dielectric constant of all samples decline with frequency hence exhibits typical dielectric dispersion. AC conductivity of the samples increased with increasing frequency but decreased while doping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the past two decades, digital played a prominent role in bringing about tangible development in several fields, especially banking. As it provided new opportunities for entrepreneurship and promoted creativity and innovation activities, and was adopted as a tool to confront financial crises. A sample of individuals working in commercial banks listed in the Iraq Stock Exchange was selected. The coefficient of determination (R2 ) and least squares modeling were used to test the hypotheses of the study and using the statistical programs (SPSS), (SMART PLS).A set of conclusions has been reached, including the existence of a significant negative effect of digital finance in financial crises. Based on the conclusions, a set of recommendations were presented, the most important of which is the need to adopt digital finance to overcome challenges and face financial crises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between emotional intelligence and nurse–nurse collaboration among registered nurses in Jordan. Design: This study used a cross‐sectional, quantitative survey design to query 342 nurses who worked in two hospitals in Jordan. Methods: We used Arabic versions of valid, reliable instruments to measure emotional intelligence and nurse–nurse communication. Findings: A total of 311 questionnaires were returned (91% response rate). Nurses' emotional intelligence was positively and significantly correlated with the nurse–nurse collaboration subscales. The results also indicated a statistically significant mean difference in communication subscale scores by gender and nursing unit. Conclusions: The present study demonstrated that nurse–nurse collaboration is linked to benefits for nurses in terms of improved job satisfaction, better nurse retention, improved quality of patient care, and enhanced healthcare efficiency and productivity. This suggests that improving nurse–nurse collaboration may have spillover effects of benefits, not only for nurses but for patients, organizations, and the overall healthcare system. Clinical Relevance: Building an environment that encourages collaboration among nurses can greatly impact the performance of nurses and its benefit to nurses. Encouraging employees to participate in activities and to collaborate in making this an integral part of their evaluation will contribute to improving the teamwork in patient care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study focuses on structural, optical, morphological, photocatalytic, antibacterial, and antibiofilm activities of bimetallic Ag-Zr nanoparticles (NPs) decorated on graphene oxide nanosheets. The bimetallic Ag-Zr NPs were prepared using biological synthesis and were characterized by various characterization techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) along with EDX, UV-Vis, and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy for their structural, morphological, and optical analysis. The photocatalytic activity was measured using the degradation of a well-known methylene blue (MB) organic dye under sunlight irradiation, while the antibacterial activity was tested against human pathogenic bacteria viz. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The results revealed that the Ag-Zr NPs exhibited significantly enhanced photocatalytic and antibacterial activity with low MICs as compared to individual Ag or Zr nanoparticles. Furthermore, the nanoparticles significantly inhibited biofilm formation, with up to a 71% reduction in biofilm formation at a highest sub-MIC. The enhanced activities were attributed to the synergistic effect of the bimetallic nanoparticles and the graphene oxide support at very low concentration. This study suggests that the bimetallic Ag-Zr nanoparticles decorated on graphene oxide (Ag-Zr/GO) could be a promising material for various applications such as wastewater treatment, antibacterial and antibiofilm agents. • We report a biosynthesis of GO based Ag-Zr bimetallic nanoparticles. • XRD, FTIR, HRTEM and Raman confirmed fcc and monoclinic structure for Ag and Zr. • The SEM images showed spherical nature and EDX verified Ag, Zr, C, and O elements. • Ag-Zr NPs and Ag-Zr/GO nanocomposite showed 72% and 90% MB degradation. • Both samples have better antibacterial and antibiofilm activity against MRSA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The present study was designed to test the level of some cardiac hormones like endothelin-1 and Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) in serum of heart diseases patients compare with control group. This study was conducted on heart diseases patients in Cardiac Care Unit (C.C.U.) in Salah- Aldin General Hospital in Tikrit City-Salah-Aldin governorate. The study, began in 31 Desember 2018 to 1 st September 2019 and included 90 subjects divided in two groups,the first group was (10) apparently healthy subjects10 male and 10 female, while the second group was 80 patients with different heart diseases (20 Heart Failure (HF) 10 male and 10 female, 20 Myocardial Infarction (MI) 10 male and 10 female, 20 Unstable Angina (UA) 10 male and 10 female, 20 Stable Angina (SA) 10 male and 10 female, were attended from Salah - Aldin General Hospital. Blood samples was collected from patients and healthy subjects and then serum separated for testing. The results of this study showed there were a high significant increasing (P≤ 0.01) in the concentration of endothelin-1 and Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) in all Heart disease groups as compared with control healthy subjects and the highest concentration of endothelin-1 was found in heart failure group, while the highest concentration of ANP was found in myocardial infarction group. Material and methods: Venous blood samples were collected from the vein from all patients and healthy subjects at study entry and after a 20-min period and serum was separated by centrifugation at 1500 g for 10 min at 4 C° for hormonal testing. Endothelin-1 and Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) hormones concentration in serum of heart diseases patients was estimated depends on kit procedure is an Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) from Bioassay Technology, China. Results: There was a high significant increasing (P ≤ 0.01) in the concentration of endothelin-1 in all heart disease groups as compared with control healthy subjects and the highest concentration of endothelin-1 was found in heart failure group, ANP There was a high significant increasing (P ≤ 0.01) in the concentration of ANP in all Heart disease groups as compared with control healthy subjects, the highest concentration of (ANP ng/ml) was found in Myocardial infarction group. Conclusion: Serum endothelin-1 and Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) hormone concentration were significantly increased (P ≤ 0.01) in all Heart diseases groups as compared with control healthy subjects. This finding suggests that endothelin may be a marker of rapid coronary artery disease progression and may also have a pathogenic role in this process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: This study aimed to examine the relationship between Emotional intelligence (EI) and intent to stay and to identify their correlates among nurses. Background: EI plays a significant role in nurses' practice, relationships, behaviours and decisions. Methods: A descriptive, cross‐sectional study was conducted with a sample of 280 registered nurses working in a public, a private and a university hospital in Jordan. A self‐administered questionnaire was used to collect data from the participants. Results: EI was significantly correlated with nurses' intent to stay (r =.427, p <.01). Some of the nurses' socio‐demographic and work‐related characteristics were found to predict EI and intent to stay. Conclusion: The findings of the study came with a supportive knowledge about the positive impacts of EI on nurses' intent to stay. Improving both EI and intent to stay among nurses is important because it could have positive effects on organisations' decisions, policymaking process, quality of care, employee commitment and satisfaction. Implications for Nursing Management: Nurse managers should pay attention to the EI of nurses during recruitment considering various determinants of EI identified in the current study. Additionally, nurse managers might want to strengthen factors associated with more stay intent among their staff. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer polymerization of chloroprene on the surface of silica nanoparticles was performed to obtain polychloroprene-grafted-silica nanoparticles (PCP- g -SiO 2 NPs). These particles were dispersed in a commercial polychloroprene matrix to obtain PCP nanocomposites with different silica core loadings (1, 5, 10, and 25 wt%). Two different chain graft densities were studied ("low," 0.022 ch/nm2 and "high," 0.21 ch/nm2) as a function of the grafted polymer molecular mass. The cured samples showed significant improvement in the mechanical properties of the PCP rubber nanocomposites as compared to the unfilled PCP as measured by standard tensile and dynamic mechanical analysis even with low silica content. The mechanical properties of the nanocomposites were notably enhanced when the graft density was low and grafted molecular masses were high. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Small-Angle X-ray Scattering (SAXS) were used to analyze the dispersion states of the grafted nanoparticles which confirmed the correlation between high grafted chain lengths and improved dispersion states and mechanical properties. Image 1 • Polychloroprene grafted nanoparticles were prepared with precise control of graft density, molar mass and dispersity. • Correlations were made between dispersion state in an industrial rubber andmechanical properties. • High molar mass grafts and low chain density provided the best dispersion and largest improvements in mechanical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate if adolescence confers additional risk for preterm delivery in multifetal gestations.Methods: This is a retrospective review of all twin and triplet deliveries from 8/2008 to 12/2012 at two Detroit Hospitals. Outcomes in adolescent mothers aged 19 or younger (n = 59) were compared with adult controls aged 20-34 (n = 350).Results: Mean gestational age at delivery in adolescents was 31.3 (SD: 5.8) weeks versus 34.2 (SD: 4.3) weeks in adults (p < .001). On multivariable analysis, adolescence was associated with preterm delivery (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 2.3; 95% confidence intervals [95% CI], 1.1-4.7, p = .02) and early-preterm delivery (aOR, 2.2; 95% CI 1.2-4; p = .01). Adjusted rates of preterm and early-preterm delivery were markedly higher in adolescents compared with controls. Being an adolescent was also a significant risk factor for iatrogenic preterm delivery (aOR, 2.4; 95% CI 1.1-5.5; p = .04).Conclusions: Adolescents pregnant with twins or triplets deliver 3 weeks, on average, before adults and are at markedly increased risk of preterm and early-preterm delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The proton, neutron and matter density distributions, the corresponding size radii and elastic electron scattering form factors of one-proton8B and two-proton 17Ne halo nuclei are calculated. The theoretical technique used to fulfill calculations is by assuming that both nuclei under study are composed of two main parts; the first is the compact core and the second is the unstable halo part. The single-particle radial wavefunctions of harmonic-oscillator (HO) and Woods-Saxon (WS) potentials are used to study core and halo parts, respectively. And other approach is studied by using HO potential for both core and halo parts, but using two HO size parameters for both supposed parts. The long tail behavior which is the main characteristic of halo nuclei are well produced for both 8B and 17Ne. The calculated size radii are in general in good agreement with the available experimental data. The electron scattering form factors of the C0+C2 and C0 components are also calculated for 8B and 17Ne, respectively and compared with corresponding stable 10B and 20Ne nuclei. For 8B calculations, the core-polarization (CP) effects are taken into account by using Tassie and Bohr-Mottelson models. The contribution from model-space (MS) part C2 component is taken through pwt interaction. The results of the calculated charge form factors are left for the planned electron-radioactive ion beam colliders where the study of skin or halo on the charge form factors are going to be studied. PACS number(s): 21.10.Gv, 21.10.Ky, 21.60.Cs, 25.30.Bf [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pressure application to the lumbar spine is an important assessment and treatment method of low back pain. However, few studies have characterized brain activation patterns in response to mechanical pressure. The objective of this study was to map brain activation associated with various levels of mechanical pressure to the lumbar spine in healthy subjects. Fifteen healthy subjects underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scanning while mechanical pressure was applied to their lumbar spine with a custom-made magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-compatible pressure device. Each subject received three levels of pressure (low/medium/high) based on subjective ratings determined prior to the scan using a block design (pressure/rest). Pressure rating was assessed with an 11-point scale (0 = no touch; 10 = max pain-free pressure). Brain activation differences between pressure levels and rest were analyzed. Subjective pressure ratings were significantly different across pressure levels (p < 0.05). The overall brain activation pattern was not different across pressure levels (all p > 0.05). However, the overall effect of pressure versus rest showed significant decreases in brain activation in response to the mechanical stimulus in regions associated with somatosensory processing including the precentral gyri, left hippocampus, left precuneus, left medial frontal gyrus, and left posterior cingulate. There was increase in brain activation in the right inferior parietal lobule and left cerebellum. This study offers insight into the neural mechanisms that may relate to manual mobilization intervention used for managing low back pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVES: Infective endocarditis (IE) remains a life-threatening disease, despite the improvement in diagnostic and therapeutic measures. We reviewed our outcomes for all adults who underwent surgery for endocarditis at our centre. METHODS: Between January 1995 and December 2013, 801 patients [586 men (73%)] underwent surgery for IE. Mean age was 60 ± 14.7 years. Native endocarditis (NE) was present in 372 patients (46%), and 379 (47%) patients had active IE. The mean follow-up period was 4.6 4.75 years (maximum 20 years). RESULTS: Single-valve endocarditis was present in 551 (69%) patients (392 aortic and 159 mitral). Multivalve involvement was present in 250 (31%) patients. Preoperative stroke was present in 149 (19%) patients, while 62 (8%) patients were on dialysis prior to surgery. Valve repair was possible in 122 (15%) patients, while 679 (85%) patients underwent valve replacement. Mechanical valves were used in 312 (39%) patients. Aortic homografts were used in 84 (10%) patients. Earlymortality occurred in 64 (8%) patients. Overall survival at 5, 10 and 20 years was 68%, 45% and 8.4%, respectively. Postoperative stroke occurred in 16 (2%) patients, while 59 (7%) patients required new dialysis postoperatively. Multivariate analysis revealed active IE (P = 0.002), preoperative dialysis (P = 0.007), previous coronary artery bypass grafting (P = 0.001), root abscess (P = 0.006) and tricuspid valve or multivalve involvement (P = 0.002) to be predictors of early mortality. The need for dialysis (P < 0.001), previous coronary artery bypass grafting (P < 0.001) andmitral valve (P = 0.002) and tricuspid valve/multivalve involvement (P < 0.001) were significant predictors of late mortality. CONCLUSIONS: Active IE is associated with high perioperative mortality especially with multivalve and aortic root involvement. Preoperative stroke has no impact on perioperative mortality. Long-term survival for those who survived the immediate postoperative period is satisfactory, and mechanical valves are associated with the best long-term survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

RAFT polymerization and surface-initiated RAFT polymerization (SI-RAFT) of chloroprene was studied. The SI-RAFT polymerization rate of chloroprene was found to be slower than free solution RAFT polymerization, and further regulated by the graft density of grafted polymers. The resulting polychloroprene-grafted silica nanoparticles were directly crosslinked to obtain matrix-free polychloroprene nanocomposites that showed good nanoparticle dispersion and superior mechanical properties compared with unfilled polychloroprene rubber. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For unresectable intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC), we previously showed that pre-therapy CT volumetric enhancement (VE) associates with biological (e.g., degree of stromal infiltration and necrosis, genetic mutations, and infiltrating lymphocytes) and clinical outcomes. Further, we showed that a change in VE following radiotherapy (RT) is prognostic. Here, we integrated these baseline and post-treatment imaging features to appraise their joint prognostic value. We retrospectively identified 112 patients (54% female, median age 63 years) who received definitive RT (78% photon, 22% proton; median biologically effective [BED 10 ] dose 86 Gy, interquartile range [IQR] 75-98 Gy) with triple phase CT imaging at diagnosis, prior to RT, and following RT. A technology company's multimodality tumor tracking software was used to quantify tumor VE ≥1 standard deviation of that of healthy parenchyma on each scan. Based on prior work, each patient was stratified into (1) low/high VE at baseline (cutpoint: 32% VE) and (2) VE-based response/non-response to RT (cutpoint: 26% decrease in VE). Overall survival (OS) and local failure-free survival (LFFS) following RT were assessed using the Kaplan-Meier method. Cox analyses were performed to include the 2 radiomic markers and traditional covariates of survival. Concordance indices (C-index) were used to evaluate model performance. At a median follow up of 74 months, 46% failed locally and 85% died. The 2-year OS and LFFS were 40% (95% confidence interval [CI], 30-49%) and 26% (CI, 18-34%), respectively. At baseline, median VE was 25% (IQR 14-45%); VE was categorized as low in 43% and high in 57%. Following RT, median change in VE was +3% (IQR -7% to +176%); change was categorized as non-response for 56% and response in 44%. On multivariable analysis for OS, Stage IV disease (hazard ratio [HR] 2.11, CI 1.35-3.31; P =0.001) was associated with poorer survival. High VE (HR 0.38, CI 0.24-0.59; P <0.001) and VE-based response to RT (HR 0.19, CI 0.12-0.32; P <0.001) were each independently associated with longer survival (C-index 0.77). For LFFS, Stage IV disease (HR 1.61, CI 1.03-2.52; P =0.036) was associated with shorter latency to local failure/death, while high VE (0.40, 95% CI 0.26-0.62; P <0.001) and VE-based response to RT (HR 0.29, CI 0.18-0.46; P <0.001) were associated with longer latency (C-index 0.74). Median OS stratified by cohort is shown in Table 1. For ICC patients treated with definitive RT, VE measured on pre-therapy imaging and pre/post-RT imaging each independently had greater predictive value than conventional patient and disease factors. These metrics, with their biological and clinical associations, may help personalize therapeutic approaches for ICC. External model validation is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Testicular germ-cell tumors (GCT) are highly curable. A multidisciplinary approach, including cisplatin-based chemotherapy has resulted in cure in the majority of patients with GCT. Thus, the life expectancy of survivors will extend to many decades post-diagnosis. Late treatment toxicities associated with cisplatin-based chemotherapy may impact their future health. Objective: To systematically evaluate evidence regarding the long-term toxicity of cisplatin in GCT survivors. Evidence acquisition: We carried out a critical review of PubMed/Medline in February 2017 according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) statement. Identified reports were reviewed according to the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) criteria. Eighty-three publications were selected for inclusion in this analysis. Evidence synthesis: Included reports evaluated long-term toxicities of cisplatin-based chemotherapy in GCT survivors. Studies reporting neuro- and ototoxicity, secondary malignancies, cardiovascular, renal and pulmonary toxicities, hypogonadism and infertility were found. Seven studies (8%) reported genetic underpinnings of long-term toxicities and 3 (4%) and 14 (19%) studies correlated long-term toxicities with circulating platinum levels and cumulative dose of cisplatin, respectively. Significant risks for long-term toxicities associated with cisplatin and platinum-based regimens were reported. The cumulative dose of cisplatin and circulating platinum were reported as risk factors. Several single-nucleotide polymorphisms identified patients susceptible to cisplatin compared with wild-type individuals. Conclusions: GCT survivors cured with cisplatin-based chemotherapy are at risk for long-term side-effects. Detection of single-nucleotide polymorphisms could be a valuable tool for predicting long-term toxicities. Patient summary: Herein, this article summarizes the available evidence of long-term toxicity of cisplatin-based chemotherapy in GCT survivors and provide insights from Indiana University. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Design: Cross-sectional study.Objective: The aim of this study was to determine whether low back pain (subacute and chronic) is related to differences in brain volume.Summary Of Background Data: Inconsistent findings have been reported about the effect of chronic low back pain on brain volume, and the effect of subacute low back pain on brain volume has not been sufficiently investigated.Methods: A total of 130 participants were included (23 subacute and 68 chronic low back pain; 39 healthy controls). The main outcome measure was whole and regional brain volume. Clinical outcome measures included pain duration, pain intensity, fear avoidance belief questionnaire, Oswestry Disability Index, and Beck's Depression Inventory.Results: Decrease in brain volume in several regions was observed in chronic low back pain when compared with health subjects; however, after correcting for multiple comparisons, no significant differences were detected between any of the three groups in whole-brain volume. Regionally, we detected less gray matter volume in two voxels in the middle frontal gyrus in chronic low back pain participants compared with healthy controls. None of the clinical outcome measures were correlated with brain volume measurements.Conclusion: Low back pain (subacute or chronic) is not related to significant differences in brain volume after correction for multiple comparisons. The effect size was too small to detect possible subtle changes unless much larger sample sizes are examined, or it is possible that low back pain does not affect brain volume.Level Of Evidence: 5. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT The preparation of well-defined polyisoprene-grafted silica nanoparticles (PIP- g-SiO2 NPs) was investigated. Surface initiated reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer (SI-RAFT) polymerization was used to polymerize isoprene from the surface of 15 nm silica NPs. A high temperature stable trithiocarbonate RAFT agent was anchored onto the surface of particles with controllable graft densities. The polymerization of isoprene mediated by silica anchored RAFT with different densities were investigated and compared to the polymerization mediated by free RAFT agents. The effects of different temperatures, initiators, and monomer feed ratios on the kinetics of the SI-RAFT polymerization were also investigated. Using this technique, block copolymers of polyisoprene and polystyrene on the surface of silica particles were also prepared. The well-defined synthesized PIP- g-SiO2 NPs were then mixed with a polyisoprene matrix which showed a good level of dispersion throughout the matrix. These tunable grafted particles have potential applications in the field of rubber nanocomposites. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 1493-1501 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Individuals from disadvantaged communities are among the millions of uninsured Americans gaining insurance under the Affordable Care Act. The extent to which health insurance can mitigate the effects of the social determinants of health on cancer care is unknown.Methods: This study linked the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results registries to US Census data to study patients diagnosed with the 4 leading causes of cancer deaths between 2007 and 2011. A county-level social determinant score was developed with 5 measures of wealth, education, and employment. Patients were stratified into quintiles, with the lowest quintile representing the most disadvantaged communities. Logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate associations and cancer-specific survival.Results: A total of 364,507 patients aged 18 to 64 years were identified (134,105 with breast cancer, 106,914 with prostate cancer, 62,606 with lung cancer, and 60,882 with colorectal cancer). Overall, patients from the most disadvantaged communities (median household income, $42,885; patients below the poverty level, 22%; patients completing college, 17%) were more likely to present with distant disease (odds ratio, 1.6; P < .001) and were less likely to receive cancer-directed surgery (odds ratio, 0.8; P < .001) than the least disadvantaged communities (median income, $78,249; patients below the poverty level, 9%; patients completing college, 42%). The differences persisted across quintiles regardless of the insurance status. The effect of having insurance on cancer-specific survival was more pronounced in disadvantaged communities (relative benefit at 3 years, 40% vs 31%). However, it did not fully mitigate the effect of social determinants on mortality (hazard ratio, 0.75 vs 0.68; P < .001).Conclusions: Cancer patients from disadvantaged communities benefit most from health insurance, and there is a reduction in disparities in outcome. However, the gap produced by social determinants of health cannot be bridged by insurance alone. Cancer 2017;123:1219-1227. © 2016 American Cancer Society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with constructing generalized 'fractional' power series representation for solutions of fractional order differential equations. We present a brief review of generalized Taylor's series and generalized differential transform methods. Then, we study the convergence of fractional power series. Our emphasis is to address the sufficient condition for convergence and to estimate the truncated error. Numerical simulations are performed to estimate maximum absolute truncated error when the generalized differential transform method is used to solve non-linear differential equations of fractional order. The study highlights the power of the generalized differential transform method as a tool in obtaining fractional power series solutions for differential equations of fractional order. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) has been described to be associated with HIV infection. It is commonly present at seroconversion, wherein there is high viral load along with low CD4 count. It has also been reported rarely as immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) associated with antiretroviral therapy (ART). A 21-year-old gentleman with vertically transmitted HIV was switched to second line anti-retroviral therapy 3 weeks prior to presentation (Baseline CD4: 8 cells/mm3, HIV-1 viral load: 820,265 copies/ml). He presented with 1 week history of progressive lower limbs weakness associated with reduced sensation, gradually ascended to involve upper limbs, with difficulty in swallowing. There was areflexia, loss of sensation in glove and stocking distribution, nasal speech and dysautonomia. Brain and spine magnetic resonance imaging showed no focal intracranial or intraspinal lesion. Cerebrospinal fluid examination (CSF) showed nil cell count with protein 0.83g/L, globulin positive, and a csf/serum glucose ratio of 0.46. Nerve conduction study showed prolonged F wave with sacral sparing and prolonged latency suggestive of demyelinating neuropathy. Patient diagnosed as GBS and received a 5-day course of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). He had respiratory failure that required mechanical ventilation, which gradually improved and extubated. CSF was negative for HSV, VZV, CMV, Zika virus, cryptocococcus, mycobacterium and anti-GQ1b antibodies. Repeated HIV-1 viral load: 995 copies/ml. The occurence of GBS is thought to be due to an autoimmune response against myelin sheath due to dysregulation triggered by HIV primary infection, which can also occur during IRIS. Risk factors for developing IRIS in our patient are HIV infection at younger age, rapid decline in HIV viral load, and low CD4 counts at baseline. It is crucial to differentiate GBS from other infectious causes of neuro-IRIS, thus appropriate treatment such as IVIG and plasma exchange can be administered early to prevent further disease progression and hasten recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A simple synthesis method of Cu 2 O@MIP nanocomposite for the development of an electrochemical biosensor for the detection of creatinine at a nanomolar scale. • Experimental design (DoE) was used for the optimization of amperometry parameter. • The detection limit was 22 nM, and the sensitivity was 2.16 µAnM−1cm−2. Creatinine (Crn) is an important biomarker for kidney function, and early detection could help to avoid end-stage renal disease. In this study, a label-free and ultra-selective platform was developed for Crn detection by modifying the screen-printed carbon electrode (SPCE) with the copper nanoparticle integrated with poly (methyl methacrylate- co -divinylbenzene) molecularly imprinted polymer (Cu 2 O@MIP) by the electrodeposition method. The synthesized Cu 2 O@MIP was investigated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), cyclic voltammetry, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). In addition, response surface methodology (RSM) is used to optimize the effects of potential and time intervals to increase its sensitivity. Under optimized conditions, Crn was determined in the presence of other interferences to be 2.16 AnM−1cm−2 and the limit of detection (LOD) was 22 nM. The sensor platform showed a response in the nanomolar range of 0–75 nM. The developed non-enzymatic electrochemical sensing responded well to Crn, and is highly specific without any significant compromise to non-specific macromolecules found in urine which presents a promising platform for the development of potable kidney disease detectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Using an animal model of preeclampsia induced by overexpression of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt-1), we previously showed that pravastatin prevents the development of a preeclampsia phenotype. Our objective is to determine whether pravastatin treatment may be explained by its effects on apoptotic/survival pathways in the placenta. Methods: Pregnant CD1 mice at day 8 of gestation (length of gestation 19 days) were randomly allocated to injection via tail vein with either adenovirus carrying sFlt-1 or adenovirus carrying the murine immunoglobulin G2α Fc fragment (mFc virus control group). Mice from the sFlt group were randomly assigned to receive pravastatin (5 mg/kg/d) in their drinking water from day 9 until killing (sFlt-1 + Pravastatin) or water (sFlt-1). The mFc control received water only. Mice were killed on day 18, and the placentas were collected. Protein mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway substrates were assayed using Bioplex Multiplex Immunoassay (Bio-Rad, Hercules, California). Data are reported as mean  ±  standard error of the mean or median (interquartile range) when appropriate. One-way analysis of variance followed by post hoc analysis was performed. Two-sided P value < .05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The sFlt-1 + Pravastatin mice had significantly higher placental protein concentrations of prosurvival/ antiapoptotic factors (activating transcription factor 2, pp38, phosphorylated c-jun N-terminal kinase, and phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase) and of heat-shock protein 27 and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, 2 factors crucial for embryonic and placental development during oxidative stress, compared to sFlt-1 mice (P  <  .05) and similar to the mFc control group. No differences were noted in substrates of the proapoptotic pp53 pathway. Conclusion: Pravastatin ability to prevent preeclampsia phenotype may be mediated through pleiotropic mechanisms involving a prosurvival/ antiapoptotic MAPK pathway in the placenta. Our results further support continued research in the role for statins in the prevention of preeclampsia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this retrospective review of 468 mothers with a multi-foetal pregnancy in Detroit, we describe the risk-profiles and the obstetrical, maternal and foetal outcomes of multi-foetal pregnancy in 59 (13%) adolescents. Overall, most mothers were African American, did not have private insurance and all were unmarried. For most mothers, this was their first pregnancy (59.3%) and their first delivery (69.5%). Almost 50% presented to triage at least once during their pregnancy. Anaemia (78%) and hypertensive disorders (18.6%) were common in this age group. The majority of adolescents delivered preterm as 81.4% were <37 weeks and 49% were <34 weeks. Furthermore, the majority of infants (79%) had low birth weights (median: 1975 g, range: 365–3405 g). This contemporary report emphasises the need for multidisciplinary prenatal management and specialist supervision, as multi-foetal pregnancies in adolescents pose real risks and impact obstetrical, maternal and neonatal outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Food safety is one of the major issues to fresh fruits and vegetables. The preservation of freshness quality of cherry tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) is relevant due to their economical impact. Under modified atmosphere (MA) (12% CO2 + 6% O2) cool storage conditions (7? C ± 1 and RH 90 ± 3%), some essential oils (black seed, fenugreek, cinnamon, spearmint, basil, and thyme) were used to treat, healthy and inoculated fruits with spoilage pathogens Alternaria alternata and Botrytis cinerea. The results indicated that fruits decay decreased in coated fruits treated with essential oils. However, as the storage period progressed, a general declining trend in all fruits quality parameters were observed for all treatments except for tomatoes treated with the essential oils, which, showing a lowest weight loss, firmness, Total Soluble Solids (TSS), pH, sugar fractions and antioxidant components (vitamin C., lycopene and phenolic fractions). The highest color changes were found in control group, inoculated fruits and untreated group. The obtained results suggested that essential plant oils may improve control decay of fruits, enhancement fruit shelf life and quality-related attributes on top of the well- documented antimicrobial protection during cold storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although colorectal cancer (CRC) screening guidelines recommend initiating screening at age 50 years, the percentage of cancer cases in younger patients is increasing. To the authors' knowledge, the national treatment patterns and outcomes of these patients are largely unknown. Methods: The current study was a population-based, retrospective cohort study of the nationally representative Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results registry for patients diagnosed with CRC from 1998 through 2011. Patients were categorized as being younger or older than the recommended screening age. Differences with regard to stage of disease at diagnosis, patterns of therapy, and disease-specific survival were compared between age groups using multinomial regression, multiple regression, Cox proportional hazards regression, and Weibull survival analysis. Results: Of 258,024 patients with CRC, 37,847 (15%) were aged <50 years. Young patients were more likely to present with regional (relative risk ratio, 1.3; P<.001) or distant (relative risk ratio, 1.5; P<.001) disease. Patients with CRC with distant metastasis in the younger age group were more likely to receive surgical therapy for their primary tumor (adjusted probability: 72% vs 63%; P<.001), and radiotherapy also was more likely in younger patients with CRC (adjusted probability: 53% vs 48%; P<.001). Patients younger than the recommended screening age had better overall disease-specific survival (hazards ratio, 0.77; P<.001), despite a larger percentage of these individuals presenting with advanced disease. Conclusions: Patients with CRC diagnosed at age <50 years are more likely to present with advanced-stage disease. However, they receive more aggressive therapy and achieve longer disease-specific survival, despite the greater percentage of patients with advanced-stage disease. These findings suggest the need for improved risk assessment and screening decisions for younger adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most expensive cancer in the United States. Episode-based bundled payments may be a strategy to decrease costs. However, it is unknown how payments are distributed across hospitals and different perioperative services. Methods: We extracted actual Medicare payments for patients in the fee-for-service Medicare population who underwent CRC surgery between January 2004 and Decembe 2006 (N = 105,016 patients). Payments included all service types from the date of hospitalization up to 1 year later. Hospitals were ranked from least to most expensive and grouped into quintiles. Results were case-mix adjusted and price standardized using empirical Bayes methods. We assessed the contributions of index hospitalization, physician services, readmissions, and postacute care to the overall variation in payment. Results: There is wide variation in total payments for CRC care within the first year after CRC surgery. Actual Medicare payments were $51,345 per patient in the highest quintile and $26,441 per patient in the lowest quintile, representing a difference of Δ = $24,902. Differences were persistent after price standardization (Δ = $17,184 per patient) and case-mix adjustment (Δ = $4,790 per patient). Payments for the index surgical hospitalization accounted for the largest share (65%) of payments but only minimally varied (11.6%) across quintiles. However, readmissions and postacute care services accounted for substantial variations in total payments. Conclusion: Medicare spending in the first year after CRC surgery varies across hospitals even after case-mix adjustment and price standardization. Variation is largely driven by postacute care and not the index surgical hospitalization. This has significant implications for policy decisions on how to bundle payments and define episodes of surgical CRC care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims and objectives This study explored how Jordanian nurses experienced the transition from home to host country to illuminate the elements of transformation. Background Much research has been conducted on topics such as the current international nursing shortage and the recruitment of nurses from various countries. International nurses have unique needs with regard to adapting to new host cultures and workplaces; furthermore, the literature has revealed little evidence of nurses' professional and personal experiences related to migration. Design A qualitative study was conducted, collecting data via individual interviews. Methods Twenty-five face-to-face and telephone interviews with Jordanian migrant nurses. Result This study showed that living and working in a host country changes the personal, social and professional attributes of migrant nurses. When nurses migrate, they encounter opportunities and significant challenges in their professional and personal lives. Although Jordanian nurses contributed their knowledge and skills to the UK healthcare system, they encountered enormous professional adaptation demands. Work setting discrepancies between source and host country are likely a major element behind the required nursing profession alteration. nurses' lives are transformed in terms of their personal and social networks in the host country. Conclusions Social transformation is an integral and inseparable part of engagement with professional organisation(s) in the host community. Professional integration likely has far-reaching effects and consequences involving not only the individual but also their home and host country families and their professional networks. Relevance to clinical practice To provide high-quality nursing care, we must learn about the transformation experience, expand our sense of who we are and gain a degree of control over how we perform our nursing roles when we move away from our home. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Increasing pressures to provide high-quality evidence-based cancer care have driven the rapid proliferation of clinical practice guidelines (CPGs). The quality and validity of CPGs have been questioned, and adherence to guidelines is relatively low. The purpose of this study was to critically evaluate the development process and scientific content of CPGs. METHODS CPGs addressing management of rectal cancer were evaluated. We quantitatively assessed guideline quality with the validated Appraisal of Guidelines Research & Evaluation (AGREE II) instrument. We identified 21 independent processes of care using the nominal group technique. We then compared the evidence base and scientific agreement for the management recommendations for these processes of care. RESULTS The quality and content of rectal cancer CPGs varied widely. Mean overall AGREE II scores ranged from 27% to 90%. Across the 5 CPGs, average scores were highest for the clarity of presentation domain (85%; range, 58% to 99%) and lowest for the applicability domain (21%; range, 8% to 56%). Randomized controlled trials represented a small proportion of citations (median, 18%; range, 13%-35%), 78% of the recommendations were based on low- or moderate-quality evidence, and the CPGs only had 11 references in common with the highest-rated CPG. There were conflicting recommendations for 13 of the 21 care processes assessed (62%). CONCLUSIONS There is significant variation in CPG development processes and scientific content. With conflicting recommendations between CPGs, there is no reliable resource to guide high-quality evidence-based cancer care. The quality and consistency of CPGs are in need of improvement. Cancer 2015;121:783-789. © 2014 American Cancer Society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photosynthetic picoeukaryotes (PPE) are recognized as major primary producers and contributors to phytoplankton biomass in oceanic and coastal environments. Molecular surveys indicate a large phylogenetic diversity in the picoeukaryotes, with members of the Prymnesiophyceae and Chrysophyseae tending to be more common in open ocean waters and Prasinophyceae dominating coastal and Arctic waters. In addition to their role as primary producers, PPE have been identified in several studies as mixotrophic and major predators of prokaryotes. Mixotrophy, the combination of photosynthesis and phagotrophy in a single organism, is well established for most photosynthetic lineages. However, green algae, including prasinophytes, were widely considered as a purely photosynthetic group. The prasinophyte Micromonas is perhaps the most common picoeukaryote in coastal and Arctic waters and is one of the relatively few cultured representatives of the picoeukaryotes available for physiological investigations. In this study, we demonstrate phagotrophy by a strain of Micromonas (CCMP2099) isolated from Arctic waters and show that environmental factors (light and nutrient concentration) affect ingestion rates in this mixotroph. In addition, we show size-selective feeding with a preference for smaller particles, and determine P vs I (photosynthesis vs irradiance) responses in different nutrient conditions. If other strains have mixotrophic abilities similar to Micromonas CCMP2099, the widespread distribution and frequently high abundances of Micromonas suggest that these green algae may have significant impact on prokaryote populations in several oceanic regimes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Considerable hospital-to-hospital variations in surgical outcomes have been reported across surgical procedures. However, it is unclear whether hospital quality rankings are consistent for noncancer and cancer operations. We investigated the differences in hospital performance for noncancer and cancer colorectal resections at 52 hospitals participating in the Michigan Surgical Quality Collaborative (MSQC). Study Design Patients undergoing colorectal resections between 2008 and 2012 were identified. Hierarchical risk-adjusted models were used to evaluate hospital level 30-day morbidity, major morbidity, extended length-of-stay (LOS > 75 th percentile), and mortality outcomes. Hospital performance, as ranked by observed-to-expected ratios, was compared by rank-order changes, interquartile ranges (IQR), and Spearman's correlations. Results Of the 19,990 colorectal resections, 7,292 (36.5%) were for cancer. We observed wide variations in all risk-adjusted 30-day outcomes between hospitals, but only weak correlations in cancer and noncancer performance within hospitals. Overall hospital performance in mortality after noncancer and cancer operations was not correlated (Spearman's rho: 0.02). Of the best performing hospitals in mortality after noncancer resections, 69% were reclassified to a worse quartile for cancer operations (median rank-change of 12.5 ranks [IQR 5 to 27]). Similarly, hospital performance in morbidity was only moderately correlated (rho: 0.59; p < 0.001). Of the hospitals with lowest morbidity rates for noncancer resections, 31% were reclassified. We noted a similar lack of relationship in major morbidity and extended LOS. Conclusions A hospital's performance ranking in risk-adjusted outcomes after noncancer colorectal resections does not correlate to its performance for cancer-related colorectal resections. Indication for operation should be considered when leveraging risk-adjusted hospital outcomes for quality improvement efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protists are traditionally described as either phototrophic or heterotrophic, but studies have indicated that mixotrophic species, organisms that combine both strategies, can have significant impacts on prey populations in marine microbial food webs. While estimates of active mixotroph abundances in environmental samples are determined microscopically by fluorescent particle ingestion, species identification is difficult. We developed SYBR-based qPCR strategies for three Antarctic algal species that we identified as mixotrophic. This method and traditional ingestion experiments were applied to determine the total mixotroph abundance in Antarctic water samples, to ascertain the abundance of known mixotrophic species, and to identify environmental variables that impact the distribution and abundance of these species. Despite differences in sampling locations and years, mixotroph distribution was strongly influenced by season. Environmental variables that best explained variation in the individual mixotroph species abundances included temperature, oxygen, date, fluorescence, conductivity, and latitude. Phosphate was identified as an additional explanatory variable when nutrients were included in the analysis. Utilizing culture-based grazing rates and qPCR abundances, the estimated summed impact on bacterial populations by the three mixotrophs was usually < 2% of the overall mixotrophic grazing, but in one sample, Pyramimonas was estimated to contribute up to 80% of mixotrophic grazing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Focused on data from Dagestan, with comparisons from Kabardino-Balkaria and Chechnya, the author surveys attitudes toward issues of gender and family among various practicing Muslims of the ethnically diverse population. He argues that for most women, their religious selfawareness is based on conventional koranic categories and spatial divisions, complementary to those of men. His survey research indicates that in the North Caucasus, while some Islamic leaders have attempted to legalize polygamy, far more women than men oppose this. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: It was recently discovered that symbiotic algae in the eggs of the salamander Ambystoma maculatum translocate fixed carbon from photosynthesis to developing embryos. Fixed carbon translocation was shown in embryos at one time point during development, however, it was unknown if fixed carbon translocation occurs throughout all developmental stages. Findings: In this study, fixed carbon translocation was measured in salamander eggs at six time points over the latter half of development. Fixed carbon translocation did not occur until the middle tailbud portion of development (stages 26-30), and translocation was measured in 20% or less of eggs sampled. Peak carbon translocation occurred during the late tailbud phase of development (stages 31-35), where as much as 87% of eggs sampled showed translocation, and average percent translocation was 6.5%. During the final stages of development, fixed carbon translocation declined, and translocation was not detected in embryos five days prior to hatching. Conclusions: The onset of fixed carbon translocation from Oophila to A. maculatum embryos during the second half of embryonic development is likely due to the corresponding settlement and concentration of Oophila in the inner egg envelope. In addition, carbon translocation ceases in late stage embryos as the inner egg envelope thins and ruptures in preparation for hatching. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Objective: The aim of this study is to estimate the overall rates of significant incontinent conduit-related complications and compare rates between conduit types. Methods: This was a retrospective review of 166 patients who underwent incontinent urinary diversion from April 1993 through April 2013. Patients were categorized by conduit type—ileal, sigmoid colon, and transverse colon. Significant conduit-related complications were assessed at 30 and 90days after surgery. Significant conduit-related complication was defined as any of the following: ureteral stricture, conduit leak, conduit obstruction, conduit ischemia, ureteral anastomotic leak, stent obstruction requiring intervention via interventional radiology procedure or reoperation, and renal failure. Results: A total of 166 patients underwent formation of an incontinent urinary conduit, most commonly during exenteration for gynecologic malignancy. There were 129 ileal, 11 transverse colon, and 26 sigmoid conduits. The overall significant conduit-related complication rate within 30days was 15.1%. Complication rates for ileal, transverse and sigmoid conduits were 14.7%, 0%, and 23.1%, respectively (Fisher's exact test, p =0.24). By 90days, the Kaplan–Meier estimated rates of significant complications were 21.8% overall, and 22.3%, 0%, and 28.9%, respectively, by conduit type (log-rank test, p =0.19). The most common significant conduit-related complications were conduit or ureteral anastomotic leaks and conduit obstructions. By 1 and 2years following surgery, the Kaplan–Meier estimated overall rate of significant conduit-related complication increased to 26.5% and 30.1%, respectively. Conclusions: Our study suggests that there are multiple appropriate tissue sites for use in incontinent conduit formation, and surgical approach should be individualized. Most significant conduit-related complications occur within 90days after surgery. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A numerical study of the performance of longitudinal fin exposed to wet air has been carried out using finite difference technique. The temperature distribution over the fin surface was determined by using a third-degree polynomial correlation for the relationship between dry bulb temperature and humidity ratio for the saturated air at relative humidity of (0, 25, 50 and 100)% and length of fin from (0.01 to 0.1)m. Also, fin efficiency, fin effectiveness and heat transfer have been calculated. The effect of the atmospheric pressure was also considered. The study showed that the fin effectiveness and fin efficiency of a fin in the case of fully wet fin was found to be smaller than those in the dry fin and the temperature gradient at the tip for a dry fin was greater than that for the wet fin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endometrial biology is characterized by programmed proliferation and differentiation that is synchronous with ovarian folliculogenesis to maximize the chance of pregnancy. Glycodelin-A, an endometrial secretory protein, promotes pregnancy mostly through immunomodulatory mechanisms. Glycodelin-A is repressed during the proliferative and early secretory phase and activated thereafter. Progesterone activates glycodelin via the Sp1 (Specificity Protein 1) transactivator. We identify a novel role for Kruppel-like transcription factor 11 (KLF11) as a glycodelin-A repressor. Although KLF11 bound 2 distinct regulatory elements, it regulated glycodelin promoter activity differentially through each element. Whereas KLF11 weakly activated glycodelin promoter activity via a region that also bound Sp1, the dominant effect of KLF11 was repression of promoter activity, messenger RNA (mRNA), and protein expression via a novel, specific binding element. KLF11 mediated this repression by recruiting the SIN3/histone deacetylase (HDAC) corepressor complex to the glycodelin promoter. KLF11 may solely, or by competing with Sp1, repress glycodelin-A levels and thereby influence its role in the endometrium. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Due to the current shifting regional paradigms in the Middle East brought on by the series of popular uprisings known as the Arab Spring, this article focuses on the issue of minority rights within modern Islamic theorizing. Evaluating the writings of Islamic intellectuals such as Tariq Ramadan, Abdullah Ahmed An-Na’im and Rashid Al-Ghannushi, the article finds that there are indeed constructs available within modern Islamic theorizing that can help resolve current minority problems within Arab societies, albeit with the addition of human rights discourse on citizenship and multiculturalism. Noting that minority–majority relations are a global problem, as seen through case studies of the United States and Europe, human rights discourse, cultural relativism and religion are explored, concluding that Islamic theorizing is a blend of the three. Turning to usul al fiqh, it is concluded that traditional Islamic approaches to minority rights fail to incorporate anything but religious minorities and those religious minorities are second-class citizens under shariah interpretation. The rise of the Ottoman millet system eventually helped shape the collective identity for minority groups, but it still placed sole emphasis on religious minorities and treated all minorities as unequal subjects under the sultanate. Building on the constructs of modern Islamic theorizing and expanding to include the concepts of multiculturalism and territorial citizenship, this article asserts that for minority–majority struggle to be solved, modernist Islamic theorists must transcend the traditional Islamic minority paradigm and instead promulgate citizenship as a basis for equality in society, applying new ijtihad for a fresh, integrative interpretation of minorities within Islam and the civil state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]