bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic factors of inhospital death in elderly patients: a time-to-event analysis of a cohort study in Martinique (French West Indies)
Authors: Godaert Lidvine , Bartholet Seendy , Dorléans Fréderique , Najioullah Fatiha , Colas Sebastien , Fanon Jean-Luc , Cabié André , Césaire Raymond , Dramé Moustapha
Published: January 2018

Objective

The primary objective was to identify predictive factors of inhospital death in a population of patients aged 65 years or older hospitalised with Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) infection. The secondary aim was to develop and validate a predictive score for inhospital death based on the predictors identified.

Design

Longitudinal retrospective study from January to December 2014.

Setting

University Hospital of Martinique.

Participants

Patients aged ≥65 years, admitted to any clinical ward and who underwent reverse transcription PCR testing for CHIKV infection.

Outcome

Independent predictors of inhospital death were identified using multivariable Cox regression modelling. A predictive score was created using the adjusted HRs of factors associated with inhospital death. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to determine the best cut-off value. Bootstrap analysis was used to evaluate internal validity.

Results

Overall, 385 patients aged ≥65 years were included (average age: 80±8 years). Half were women, and 35 (9.1%) died during the hospital stay. Seven variables were found to be independently associated with inhospital death (concurrent cardiovascular disorders: HR 11.8, 95% CI 4.5 to 30.8; concurrent respiratory infection: HR 9.6, 95% CI 3.4 to 27.2; concurrent sensorimotor deficit: HR 7.6, 95% CI 2.0 to 28.5; absence of musculoskeletal pain: HR 2.6, 95% CI 1.3 to 5.3; history of alcoholism: HR 2.5, 95% CI 1.1 to 5.9; concurrent digestive symptoms: HR 2.4, 95% CI 1.2 to 4.9; presence of confusion or delirium: HR 2.1, 95% CI 1.1 to 4.2). The score ranged from 0 to 25, with an average of 6±6. The area under the curve was excellent (0.90; 95% CI 0.86 to 0.94). The best cut-off value was a score ≥8 points, with a sensitivity of 91% (82%–100%) and specificity of 75% (70%–80%).

Conclusions

Signs observed by the clinician during the initial examination could predict inhospital death. The score will be helpful for early management of elderly subjects presenting within 7 days of symptom onset in the context of CHIKV outbreaks.
Communication about the impending death of patients with cancer to the family: a nationwide survey
Authors: Mori Masanori , Morita Tatsuya , Igarashi Naoko , Shima Yasuo , Miyashita Mitsunori
Published: January 2018

Objectives

Explanation about the impending death of imminently dying patients with cancer is important for their families. However, little is known about how clinicians explain impending death and how families perceive the explanation. We aimed to clarify bereaved families’ perception of the need for improvements in the explanation about impending death and to explore the factors contributing to the need.

Methods

In a nationwide survey of 818 bereaved families of patients with cancer admitted to inpatient hospices in Japan, we evaluated family-perceived need for improvements in the explanation about impending death and families’ experiences of the explanation.

Results

Among all the participants (n=516, 63%), 35 (6.8%), 123 (24%) and 297 (58%) families felt that much/considerable, some and no improvements were needed, respectively. Independent determinants of the need were a younger patient age (OR=0.97; 95% CI 0.95 to 0.99; P=0.009); not receiving an ‘explicit explanation about physical signs of impending death’ (OR=0.67; 95% CI 0.51 to 0.88; P=0.004); not receiving an ‘explanation of how long the patient and family could talk’ (OR=0.67; 95% CI 0.51 to 0.88; P<0.001); receiving an ‘excessive warning of impending death’ (OR=1.45; 95% CI 1.03 to 2.03; P=0.033) and having a feeling of ‘uncertainty caused by vague explanations about future changes’ (OR=1.77; 95% CI 1.38 to 2.27; P<0.001).

Conclusions

Nearly a third of the bereaved families perceived some need to improve the explanation about impending death. To better help patients/families prepare for their end-of-life, clinicians should recognise and explain various impending death signs; find a balance between detailed explanation and excessive warning and address how long they could talk in the remaining time.
Simplified monitoring and warning system against rainfall-induced shallow slope failures
Authors: Wang Chien-Chih , Chang Wen-Jong , Huang An-Bin , Chou Shih-Hsun , Chien Yu-Chun
Published: January 2018

A system that involves the use of a low-cost microelectromechanical system (MEMS)-based sensor stick and soil-water characteristic curve (SWCC) inferred from grain-size distribution was developed to assess the factor of safety against rainfall-induced shallow slope failure. The system allows water content at multiple depths to be monitored in the field. The corresponding suction and factor of safety against infinite slope failure are derived based on the estimated SWCC. The new system circumvents the use of tedious and often costly field as well as laboratory procedures while providing a quantitative slope stability assessment on a real-time basis. The paper introduces the background of the new development and describes the application of the sensor stick system in a field test.
High Speed Area Optimized Hybrid DA Architecture for 2D-DTCWT
Authors: Divakara S. S. , Patilkulkarni Sudarshan , Raj Cyril Prasanna
Published: January 2018

In this paper, hybrid architecture for DTCWT computation is designed and implemented on FPGA based on DA algorithm. The distributive arithmetic (DA) algorithm is combined with multiplexer based algorithm to optimize the resource utilization on configurable logic block (CLB). The filter coefficients of DTCWT are quantized, rounded to its nearest integer for DTCWT computation and the loss in rounding and quantization is limited to 0.5[Formula: see text]dB as compared with software implementation. The parallel architecture designed computes row elements simultaneously and pipelined architecture is designed to compute column elements. The proposed architecture is modeled using Verilog and implemented on Xilinx FPGA. The design operates at a maximum frequency of 496[Formula: see text]MHz and consumes power less than 0.2[Formula: see text]W.
China’s Security and Economic Engagement in West Africa: Constructive or Destructive?
Authors: Asante Richard
Published: January 2018

Chinese officials tend to claim that Chinese economic and security activities in Africa are based on the principles of equality and mutual benefits (win-win), thus they are generally beneficial to the nation-building and development of African countries. Drawing on the case study of Ghana, this article argues that China’s commitment to enhancing the capacity of national security agencies, fighting against piracy, strengthening maritime security, and promoting intelligence sharing in West Africa have been, in general, constructive. However, anti-Chinese sentiments mainly triggered by the involvement of Chinese migrants in illegal gold mining activities in Ghana and other West African countries have been destructive, with serious security ramifications for not only Ghana, but also the entire region that has a history of violent conflicts closely related to extraction of natural resources.
The antihelminthic moxidectin enhances tonic GABA currents in rodent hippocampal pyramidal neurons
Authors: Spampanato Jay , Gibson Anne , Dudek F. Edward
Published: January 2018

Macrocyclic lactones (MLs) are commonly used treatments for parasitic worm and insect infections in humans, livestock, and companion animals. MLs target the invertebrate glutamate-activated chloride channel that is not present in vertebrates. MLs are not entirely inert in vertebrates, though; they have been reported to have activity in heterologous expression systems consisting of ligand-gated ion channels that are present in the mammalian central nervous system (CNS). However, these compounds are typically not able to reach significant concentrations in the CNS because of the activity of the blood-brain barrier P-glycoprotein extrusion system. Despite this, these compounds are able to reach low levels in the CNS that may be useful in the design of novel “designer” ligand-receptor systems that can be used to directly investigate neuronal control of behavior in mammals and have potential for use in treating human neurological diseases. To determine whether MLs might affect neurons in intact brains, we investigated the activity of the ML moxidectin (MOX) at native GABA receptors. Specifically, we recorded tonic and phasic miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents (mIPSCs) in ex vivo brain slices. Our data show that MOX potentiated tonic GABA currents in a dose-dependent manner but had no concomitant effects on phasic GABA currents (i.e., MOX had no effect on the amplitude, frequency, or decay kinetics of mIPSCs). These studies indicate that behavioral experiments that implement a ML-based novel ligand-receptor system should take care to control for potential effects of the ML on native tonic GABA receptors.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY We have identified a novel mechanism of action in the mammalian central nervous system for the antihelminthic moxidectin, commonly prescribed to animals worldwide and currently being evaluated for use in humans. Specifically, moxidectin applied to rodent brain slices selectively enhanced the tonic GABA conductance of hippocampal pyramidal neurons.
Septic Pulmonary Emboli and Renal Abscess Caused by Staphylococcus aureus in an HIV-Infected Patient
Authors: Medina-Piñón Isaí , Reyes-Mondragón Alan Ledif , Martínez-Reséndez Michel Fernando , Camacho-Ortiz Adrián
Published: January 2018

Staphylococcus aureus is a common cause of bacteremia in the general population and can lead to serious metastatic infection particularly in immunocompromised persons. However, prompt diagnosis and management can result in favorable outcomes. In the following case report, the clinical course of an HIV-infected man is presented; he developed bloodstream infection (BSI) and associated complications: septic pulmonary embolism, right renal abscess, and ipsilateral renal vein thrombosis. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was identified as the cause of sepsis and successfully treated with surgery and antimicrobials. Intravenous vancomycin was the primary therapy, followed by oral linezolid after resolution of bacteremia.
Effect of the Prodegradant-Additive Plastics Incorporated on the Polyethylene Recycling
Authors: Aldas Miguel , Paladines Andrea , Valle Vladimir , Pazmiño Miguel , Quiroz Francisco
Published: January 2018

The effect of degraded plastic with prodegradants on the polyethylene properties was studied. First, the mixture of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) with 5 wt.% prodegradant (oxo-degradable) additive was prepared by melt processing using a mixer chamber. Then, the degradation of the mixtures was evaluated by exposing the oxo-degradable LDPE in a Xenon arc chamber for 300 hours. The degraded material was characterized by infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) assessing the carbonyl index and the hydroperoxide band. Then, different percentages of degraded material (1, 5, 10, 20, and 50 wt.%) were incorporated into the neat LDPE. Mechanical and rheological tests were carried out to evaluate the recycling process of these blends. Also, the feasibility of the blends reprocessing was determined by analysing the melt flow index for each heating process and shear stress applied. It was evidenced that the increment of the content of the degraded material in the neat LDPE decreased the mechanical strength and the processability of blends due to the imminent thermal degradation. All the test results showed that the incorporation of degraded material causes a considerable reduction in the matrix properties during the reprocessing. Nevertheless, at low concentrations, the properties of the oxo-degradable LDPE–LDPE blends were found to be similar to the neat LDPE.
Hot Topics and Challenges of Regenerative Nanoceria in Application of Antioxidant Therapy
Authors: Li Changyan , Shi Xiangcheng , Shen Qiudi , Guo Chen , Hou Zepeng , Zhang Jun
Published: January 2018

As a new antioxidant, nanoceria is of significant importance in applications of medical and biological fields. In comparison with conventional organic antioxidants, nanoceria has multienzyme mimetic activity by Ce4+/Ce3+ redox cycle. This unique regenerative/autocatalytic property has been widely used in the aspects of free-radical scavenger, radiation protection, oxidative-stress-related disease, drug delivery, biosensor, tissue engineering, cancer biomarker, and anti-inflammatory. This paper reviews the latest breakthrough of nanoceria as an antioxidant in applications of medical and biological fields on the base of the authors’ research works on resistance to oxidation and cytotoxicity. The challenges of nanoceria encountered in applications in medical and biological fields are commented as well.
Permutation Entropy and Signal Energy Increase the Accuracy of Neuropathic Change Detection in Needle EMG
Authors: Dostál O. , Vysata O. , Pazdera L. , Procházka A. , Kopal J. , Kuchyňka J. , Vališ M.
Published: January 2018

Background and Objective. Needle electromyography can be used to detect the number of changes and morphological changes in motor unit potentials of patients with axonal neuropathy. General mathematical methods of pattern recognition and signal analysis were applied to recognize neuropathic changes. This study validates the possibility of extending and refining turns-amplitude analysis using permutation entropy and signal energy. Methods. In this study, we examined needle electromyography in 40 neuropathic individuals and 40 controls. The number of turns, amplitude between turns, signal energy, and “permutation entropy” were used as features for support vector machine classification. Results. The obtained results proved the superior classification performance of the combinations of all of the above-mentioned features compared to the combinations of fewer features. The lowest accuracy from the tested combinations of features had peak-ratio analysis. Conclusion. Using the combination of permutation entropy with signal energy, number of turns and mean amplitude in SVM classification can be used to refine the diagnosis of polyneuropathies examined by needle electromyography.
Synthesis and Performance Evaluation of Pulse Electrodeposited Ni-AlN Nanocomposite Coatings
Authors: Ali Kamran , Narayana Sivaprasad , Shakoor R. A. , Okonkwo Paul C. , Yusuf Moinuddin M. , Alashraf Abdullah , Kahraman Ramazan
Published: January 2018

This research work presents the microscopic analysis of pulse electrodeposited Ni-AlN nanocomposite coatings using SEM and AFM techniques and their performance evaluation (mechanical and electrochemical) by employing nanoindentation and electrochemical methods. The Ni-AlN nanocomposite coatings were developed by pulse electrodeposition. The nickel matrix was reinforced with various amounts of AlN nanoparticles (3, 6, and 9 g/L) to develop Ni-AlN nanocomposite coatings. The effect of reinforcement concentration on structure, surface morphology, and mechanical and anticorrosion properties was studied. SEM and AFM analyses indicate that Ni-AlN nanocomposite coatings have dense, homogenous, and well-defined pyramid structure containing uniformly distributed AlN particles. A decent improvement in the corrosion protection performance is also observed by the addition of AlN particles to the nickel matrix. Corrosion current was reduced from 2.15 to 1.29 μA cm−2by increasing the AlN particles concentration from 3 to 9 g/L. It has been observed that the properties of Ni-AlN nanocomposite coating are sensitive to the concentration of AlN nanoparticles used as reinforcement.
Effect of Nano-ppy/OMMT on the Physical and Electrochemical Properties of an Ionic Liquid Gel Polymer Electrolyte
Authors: Yang Shuo , Li Xuan , Yao Pei
Published: January 2018

A new type of nanopolypyrrole/organically modified montmorillonite-ionic liquid gel polymer electrolyte (ppy/OMMT-ILGPE) is prepared based on nanopolypyrrole/organically modified montmorillonite (ppy/OMMT), N-butyl-N- methylpyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (PP14TFSI), lithium-bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl) (LiTFSI), polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF), methyl methacrylate (MMA), and benzoyl peroxide (BPO) by an in situ method. The effect of nano-ppy/OMMT on the physical and electrochemical properties of an ionic liquid gel polymer electrolyte is demonstrated. The results show that nano-ppy/OMMT-ILGPE has a porous structure with a large surface area, and the diameter of the pores on the surface is approximately 1-2 μm. The Li+ transference number of 0.72 is achieved, and the ionic conductivity reaches up to 1.2 × 10−3 S/cm at room temperature. Nano-ppy/OMMT-ILGPE has good thermal stability and mechanical properties. Meanwhile, nano-ppy/OMMT-ILGPE has fine cycle performance in the Li|nano-ppy/OMMT-ILGPE|LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 coin cell. The good electrochemistry performance of nano-ppy/OMMT-ILGPE means that it can act as an ideal gel polymer electrolyte material for lithium ion batteries.
Evaluating Mismatch Repair Deficiency in Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma: Challenges and Recommendations
Authors: Hu Zishuo I. , Shia Jinru , Stadler Zsofia K. , Varghese Anna M. , Capanu Marinela , Salo-Mullen Erin , Lowery Maeve A. , Diaz Luis A. , Mandelker Diana , Yu Kenneth H. , Zervoudakis Alice , Kelsen David P. , Iacobuzio-Donahue Christine A. , Klimstra David S. , Saltz Leonard B. , Sahin Ibrahim H. , O'Reilly Eileen M.
Published: January 2018

Purpose: Immune checkpoint inhibition has been shown to generate profound and durable responses in mismatch repair deficient (MMR-D) solid tumors and has elicited interest in detection tools and strategies to guide therapeutic decision-making. Herein we address questions on the appropriate screening, detection methods, patient selection, and initiation of therapy for MMR-D pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and assess the utility of next-generation sequencing (NGS) in providing additional prognostic and predictive information for MMR-D PDAC.

Experimental Design: Archival and prospectively acquired samples and matched normal DNA from N = 833 PDAC cases were analyzed using a hybridization capture–based, NGS assay designed to perform targeted deep sequencing of all exons and selected introns of 341 to 468 cancer-associated genes. A computational program using NGS data derived the MSI status from the tumor-normal paired genome sequencing data. Available germline testing, IHC, and microsatellite instability (MSI) PCR results were reviewed to assess and confirm MMR-D and MSI status.

Results: MMR-D in PDAC is a rare event among PDAC patients (7/833), occurring at a frequency of 0.8%. Loss of MMR protein expression by IHC, high mutational load, and elevated MSIsensor scores were correlated with MMR-D PDAC. All 7 MMR-D PDAC patients in the study were found to have Lynch syndrome. Four (57%) of the MMR-D patients treated with immune checkpoint blockade had treatment benefit (1 complete response, 2 partial responses, 1 stable disease).

Conclusions: An integrated approach of germline testing and somatic analyses of tumor tissues in advanced PDAC using NGS may help guide future development of immune and molecularly directed therapies in PDAC patients. Clin Cancer Res; 24(6); 1326–36. ©2018 AACR.
Protective Effects of Let-7b on the Expression of Occludin by Targeting P38 MAPK in Preventing Intestinal Barrier Dysfunction
Authors: Liu Zhihua , Tian Yinghai , Jiang Yanqiong , Chen Shihua , Liu Ting , Moyer Mary Pat , Qin Huanlong , Zhou Xinke
Published: January 2018

Background/Aims: Let-7b was dramatically reduced after a dicer knockout of mice with intestinal barrier function injuries. This paper aims to investigate the molecular mechanism of let-7b by targeting p38 MAPK in preventing intestinal barrier dysfunction. Methods: A total of 186 patients were enrolled, with 93 in the control group and 93 in the PRO group. Only 158 patients completed the entire study, whereas the others either did not meet the inclusion criteria or refused to participate. To further verify the role of let-7b, intestinal epithelial conditional knockout (IKO) mice of mmu-let-7b model were established. Serum let-7b, zonulin, IL-6, and TNF-α concentrations were measured by ELISA or quantitative RT-PCR. Permeability assay was done by ussing chamber. The apoptotic cells were identified using an In Situ Cell Death Detection Kit. Protein was detected by western blot. Results: Probiotics can lower infection-related complications, as well as increase the serum and tissue let-7b levels. P38 MAPK was identified as the target of let-7b, as verified by NCM460 cells. P38 MAPK expression was increased, whereas tight-junction (TJ) proteins were significantly decreased in let-7b IKO mice (both P<0.05). Negative regulation of p38 MAPK molecular signaling pathways was involved in the protective effects of let-7b on intestinal barrier function. Conclusion: Let-7b was identified as a novel diagnosis biomarker or a potential treatment target for preventing intestinal barrier dysfunction.
O questionário como ferramenta de ensino de partículas modais alemãs
Authors: Aquino Marceli
Published: January 2018

Este trabalho teve a intenção de investigar sobre o processo de tomada de decisão quanto às funções comunicativas das partículas modais (doravante PM), frente a diferentes contextos. Nesse sentido, aplicamos um questionário online em alemão. Para a coleta de dados foi solicitado a 62 participantes alemães nativos e não nativos que selecionassem dentre um conjunto de orações (contendo ou não PMs) as que proporcionariam interpretações adequadas para contextos pré-estabelecidos. Os resultados apontam que os participantes nativos tiveram maior facilidade em selecionar as opções esperadas nas tarefas apresentadas, porém as reflexões sobre as decisões tomadas foram desafiadoras para ambos os grupos. Portanto, a análise de dados indica deficiências na compreensão da função e complexidade modal das PMs. Assim, além de investigar as decisões tomadas pelos dois grupos, procuramos oferecer ferramentas para o ensino das PMs em aulas de alemão.
Investigating Vision
Authors: Staubermann Klaus
Published: January 2018

This article draws a historic trajectory for the study of colour perception at Edinburgh University through the examination of three key pieces of scientific apparatus and their uses. It traces the development of colour, perception and skills research at Edinburgh University from the 1850s to 1950s. Starting point of the narrative is the advent of Wilhelm Wundt’s laboratory method from Leipzig, its inherent limitations and Edinburgh psychologists’ response to it. Through the analysis of some of the key instruments and their use for colour perception and skills research and teaching the article aims to understand the establishment of the department of psychology at Edinburgh University, and more broadly, scientific instruments as tools for understanding the formation and development of research and teaching schools.
New species of Creagrutus (Ostariophysi; Characiformes; Characidae) from the Rio Xingu drainage, Brazil
Authors: NETTO-FERREIRA ANDRE L. , MOREIRA CRISTIANO R.
Published: January 2018

Creagrutus yudja is described from the Rio Xingu basin, Brazil. It is distinguished from its congeners by the lack of infraorbital 6, the shallower body (13.7–19.2% of SL), the presence of 34–36 perforated lateral line scales, and the presence of 4–6 post-anal scales. The inclusion of the new species on the available, morphology-based phylogenetic study of Creagrutus placed C. yudja as the sister-species of C. nigrotaeniatus, but the clade including those species is not recovered as sister to the pair C. cracentis + C. maxillaris, suggesting independent modifications of the dentition pattern typical of Creagrutus to a condition similar to the plesiomorphic characid condition within the genus.
Polypedates smaragdinus Blyth, 1852—a senior subjective synonym of Rhacophorus maximus Günther, 1858
Authors: OHLER ANNEMARIE , DEUTI KAUSHIK
Published: January 2018

After more than 160 years, the onomatophores (name-bearing types) of Polypedates smaragdinus Blyth, 1852 were located in the collection of the ZSI (Kolkata, India). This allowed to study the specimens, to identify them and to propose an allocation of this nomen to the taxon Rhacophorus maximus. To stabilize nomenclatural and taxonomic issues, a lectophoront (lectotype) is designated for Polypedates smaragdinus Blyth, 1852 and described. A formal synonymy list is given. The species currently known as Rhacophorus maximus Günther, 1864 should now bear the nomen Rhacophorus smaragdinus (Blyth, 1852).
Improvements and Applications in Climate Data Analysis for Determining Reference Rainfall Years
Authors: Albright Cara Melissa , Schramm Harrison
Published: January 2018

Inference about time series in weather data can be made in several ways. Current practice focuses on computing summary measures, such as mean and variance, or constructing a reference year from small subsets of data derived from multiple years. Some applications require the selection of an instance of observed data over a fixed time frame, typically a year or more, for modeling. In addition, many current methods do not include rainfall as a parameter of interest. This paper reviews and refines existing methods for determining a reference year by creating a metric that measures the (abstract) distance between observed patterns of rainfall. The reference year is then chosen from a group of potential reference years. This method is computationally efficient, easily explained, and robust against differences in the index of reporting, to include leap years. Application of the distance metric to data from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Norfolk, Virginia, shows that it appropriately identifies not only the years that are most typical for a location, but extreme years as well. Both are particularly useful in applications related to urban hydrology, which formed the basis for development of this method. Results also demonstrate that the proposed method is functionally different than existing methods. The distance metric represents an evolutionary step forward, overcomes some difficulties present from other approaches, and would be applicable to a number of cross-disciplinary applications.
Effect of the nozzle holder on injected fuel temperature for experimental test rigs and its influence on diesel sprays
Authors: Gimeno Jaime , Martí-Aldaraví Pedro , Carreres Marcos , Peraza Jesús E
Published: January 2018

One of the test boundary conditions whose control is necessary for both experimental and numerical studies about the automotive engines research field is the temperature of the fuel inside the injector body during the injection. However, it is a difficult parameter to be directly measured in a non-intrusive way due to the injector architecture and the nature of the standard experiments that are done to characterize sprays. An experimental analysis is performed in this work employing a continuous flow test chamber, normally used in the optical diagnosis of diesel sprays, in order to compare and characterize two different designs for the nozzle holder of the test rig. The first one consisted in an aluminum holder that coats the nozzle until its tip, while the second one is made of steel and only supports the nozzle without covering it from the environment. The employed methodology was to set the test rig at a wide range of thermodynamic conditions inside the vessel such as ambient temperature and density and also the coolant temperature at the outlet of the injector casing for both cooling pieces. In this case, a dummy injector provided with a thermocouple was used to measure the tip temperature. In this way, correlations are obtained to estimate the injector body temperature out of the measurement points. Further experiments with a real single-hole diesel injector, controlling its tip temperature according to the previous results, are also discussed in this article in order to analyze the effect of this parameter on the spray evaporation process. Liquid length at inert conditions and both ignition delay and lift-off length at reactive ones were measured employing the same test vessel. All those parameters showed to be shortened with an increment of injected fuel temperature, and the lower the ambient temperature, the stronger this influence is.
Molecular physiology and pathophysiology of stromal interaction molecules
Authors: Nelson Heather A , Roe Michael W
Published: January 2018

Ca2+release from the endoplasmic reticulum is an important component of Ca2+signal transduction that controls numerous physiological processes in eukaryotic cells. Release of Ca2+from the endoplasmic reticulum is coupled to the activation of store-operated Ca2+entry into cells. Store-operated Ca2+entry provides Ca2+for replenishing depleted endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+stores and a Ca2+signal that regulates Ca2+-dependent intracellular biochemical events. Central to connecting discharge of endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+stores following G protein-coupled receptor activation with the induction of store-operated Ca2+entry are stromal interaction molecules (STIM1 and STIM2). These highly homologous endoplasmic reticulum transmembrane proteins function as sensors of the Ca2+concentration within the endoplasmic reticulum lumen and activators of Ca2+release-activated Ca2+channels. Emerging evidence indicates that in addition to their role in Ca2+release-activated Ca2+channel gating and store-operated Ca2+entry, STIM1 and STIM2 regulate other cellular signaling events. Recent studies have shown that disruption of STIM expression and function is associated with the pathogenesis of several diseases including autoimmune disorders, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and myopathies. Here, we provide an overview of the latest developments in the molecular physiology and pathophysiology of STIM1 and STIM2.

Impact statement

Intracellular Ca2+signaling is a fundamentally important regulator of cell physiology. Recent studies have revealed that Ca2+-binding stromal interaction molecules (Stim1 and Stim2) expressed in the membrane of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) are essential components of eukaryote Ca2+signal transduction that control the activity of ion channels and other signaling effectors present in the plasma membrane. This review summarizes the most recent information on the molecular physiology and pathophysiology of stromal interaction molecules. We anticipate that the work presented in our review will provide new insights into molecular interactions that participate in interorganelle signaling crosstalk, cell function, and the pathogenesis of human diseases.
The construction of an appropriate education program by Florida administrative law judges pre-Rowley, post-Rowley, and post-IDEA 2004
Authors: Henry Michelle , Johnson Heather
Published: January 2018

This critical discourse analysis examines the construction of an “appropriate” education by Florida administrative law judges in their special education final orders over time. The results indicate that despite each child being different, the construction of an appropriate education was uniform within the given time periods. Prior to the Rowley decision, the administrative law judges utilized their own judgment in constructing an appropriate education. This construction was based on whether or not the proposed Individualized Education Program was designed to meet the needs of the child. Each final order avoided discussing the law in detail, credibility, deference, or burden of proof. The results indicate that after Rowley and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (2004), the Rowley decision established an epistemic hierarchy. It gave deference to school districts—not parents—as experts. Additionally, after Rowley and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, the power of an administrative law judge to construct an appropriate education was constrained by the discourse in the Rowley decision. Throughout all three time periods, the administrative law judges all emphasized that students were not entitled to the best education possible.
Screening colonoscopy and risk of adverse events among individuals undergoing fecal immunochemical testing in a population‐based program: A nested case‐control study
Authors: Arana-Arri Eunate , Imaz-Ayo Natale , Fernández Mari Jose , Idigoras Isabel , Bilbao Isabel , Bujanda Luis , Bao Fidencio , Ojembarrena Enrique , Gil Ines , Gutiérrez-Ibarluzea Iñaki , Portillo Isabel
Published: January 2018

Background

Screening by means of biennial fecal occult blood test has provided a reduction in overall colorectal cancer mortality. Notwithstanding, we should not underestimate the harms that it can produce.

Aim

The aim of this article is to identify the independent risk factors of complications after a screening colonoscopy.

Methods

A six‐year, nested case‐control study was conducted. Mortality/complications within 30 days after colonoscopy were registered and its predictors identified through logistic regression.

Results

After 39,254 colonoscopies, the complication rate was 1.0%. Independent predictors were sex (OR 1.68 for men; CI 95% 1.18–2.39), ASA physical status classification system (OR 1.73 for ASA II–III; CI 95% 1.53–3.69), history of abdominal surgery (OR 2.37; CI 95% 1.72–4.08), diverticulosis (OR 2.89; CI 95% 1.94–4.30), inadequate cleansing (OR 29.35; CI 95% 6.52–132.17), detection of advanced neoplasia (AN) (OR 4.92; CI 95% 3.29–7.36), detection of stage I adenocarcinoma (OR 9.44; CI 95% 4.46–20.0), polyps in right colon OR 2.27 CI 95% 1.38–3.74) and complex polypectomy (OR 2.00; CI 95% 1.25–3.20). The logistic model explained 82% of the complications (CI 95% 0.798–0.854, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Colonoscopy, with or without removal of a lesion, is an invasive procedure with a non‐deniable risk of major complications. Factors like inadequate cleansing or detection of AN are determinants. Therefore, it is vital to know which aspects predict their appearance to implement countermeasures.
Attribute-assisted footprint suppression using a 2D continuous wavelet transform
Authors: Alali Abdulmohsen , Machado Gabriel , Marfurt Kurt J.
Published: January 2018

Acquisition footprint manifests itself on 3D seismic data as a repetitive pattern of noise, anomalously high amplitudes, or structural shifts on time or horizon slices that is correlated to the location of the sources and receivers on the earth’s surface. Ideally, footprint suppression should be handled by denser seismic acquisition and more careful prestack processing prior to seismic imaging. In the case in which only legacy data exist, or when economic and time constraints preclude more expensive acquisition and more careful processing, interpreters must deal with data contaminated by footprint. Although accurate time-structure maps can be constructed from footprint-contaminated data, the effect of footprint on subsequent attributes, such as coherence, curvature, spectral components, and P-wave impedance will be exacerbated. We have developed a workflow that uses a 2D continuous wavelet transform to suppress coherent and incoherent noise on poststack seismic data. The method involves decomposing time slices of amplitude and attribute data into voices and magnitudes using 2D wavelets. We exploit the increased seismic attribute sensitivity to the acquisition footprint to design a mask to suppress the footprint on the original amplitude data. The workflow is easy to apply and improves the interpretability of the data and improves the subsequent attribute resolution.
Trabecular Bone Score in Obese and Nonobese Subjects With Primary Hyperparathyroidism Before and After Parathyroidectomy
Authors: Tay Yu-Kwang Donovan , Cusano Natalie E , Rubin Mishaela R , Williams John , Omeragic Beatriz , Bilezikian John P
Published: January 2018

Context

Obesity has been shown to be unfavorable to skeletal microarchitecture when assessed by trabecular bone score (TBS). The influence of adiposity on skeletal microstructure in primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) has not yet been evaluated.

Objective

To investigate the effect of obesity on TBS and bone mineral density (BMD) in subjects with PHPT at baseline and through 2 years after parathyroidectomy.

Design

Prospective observational study.

Setting

Referral center.

Patients or Other Participants

Thirty men and women with PHPT undergoing parathyroid surgery.

Main Outcome Measures

TBS and BMD by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA).

Results

There were notable improvements in lumbar spine and femoral neck BMD in the obese (lumbar spine: 4.3 ± 4.7%, femoral neck: 3.8 ± 6.6%; P < 0.05 for both) and nonobese subjects (lumbar spine: 3.8 ± 5.6%, femoral neck 3.1 ± 5.0%; P < 0.05 for both) but no marked change in TBS in either group at 24 months postparathyroidectomy. Obese subjects had fully degraded TBS values compared with the nonobese subjects, whose TBS values were minimally below normal throughout the study (baseline: 1.199 ± 0.086 vs 1.327 ± 0.099, respectively; P = 0.003; 24 months: 1.181 ± 0.061 vs 1.352 ± 0.114, respectively; P = 0.001), despite improvements in BMD.

Conclusions

The detrimental effect of obesity on TBS, an index of bone quality, was demonstrated in subjects with PHPT. Obesity was associated with fully degraded skeletal microarchitecture as measured by TBS in PHPT, despite similar values in bone density by DXA compared with nonobese subjects. TBS values did not improve postparathyroidectomy in either obese or nonobese subjects.
Feeding amount significantly alters overt tumor onset rate in a zebrafish melanoma model
Authors: Grigura Vadim , Barbier Megan , Zarov Anna P. , Kaufman Charles K.
Published: January 2018

The manner in which zebrafish are fed may have important impacts on the behavior of disease models. We examined the effect of different feeding regimens on the rate of overt melanoma tumor onset in a p53/BRAF-dependent model, a commonly used read-out in this and many other cancer models. We demonstrate that increased feeding leads to more rapid melanoma onset. The ability to modulate overt tumor onset rates with this regimen indicates additional flexibility to ‘tune’ the system to more quickly generate tumors for study and to begin to address questions related to cancer metabolism using the zebrafish model.
Gestão de associados no Brasil: uma pesquisa exploratória
Authors: Nogueira Fernando do Amaral , Denubila Laís Atanaka , Morano Rogério Scabim
Published: January 2018

A gestão de associados – como associações recrutam, engajam e mantêm membros – é um tema pouco explorado na literatura, mas relevante para gestores de associações. O objetivo desta pesquisa é entender como se dá a gestão de associados em associações brasileiras, quais são as práticas mais utilizadas por essas organizações e como elas variam em função de seu de tipo de membro – pessoa física (APF) ou jurídica (APJ). Para tanto, foi desenvolvida uma survey com questões sobre o perfil da associação e suas práticas de gestão associativa, contando com 99 respostas válidas – 42 APFs e 57 APJs. Como achados principais, tem-se que a diferença nas práticas de gestão de associados entre associações de base individual e metaorganizações é menor do que se poderia supor. A pesquisa também revelou a predominância de uma governança pouco competitiva, baseada no modelo de “democracia de chapa única”, desafiando, assim, a validade da ideia de associações como “escolas de democracia”.
O papel político dos agentes públicos na compra direta da agricultura familiar em São Bernardo do Campo
Authors: Jesus Deloise de Fátima Bacelar de , Crantschaninov Tamara Ilinsky
Published: January 2018

O presente artigo analisa o papel dos atores governamentais, ou seja, do alto escalão, dos dirigentes públicos e da burocracia, na implementação da compra direta da agricultura familiar para a merenda escolar no município de São Bernardo do Campo, que alcançou o direcionamento de 100% dos recursos fornecidos pelo Fundo Nacional de Desenvolvimento da Educação (FNDE) para as cooperativas de agricultores. A análise da experiência está baseada no período de sua implementação (de 2009 a 2012), e pode ser caracterizada como qualitativa e de campo. O texto aborda uma discussão teórica sobre o papel dos atores na implementação das políticas públicas, seguida de uma contextualização sobre a experiência de São Bernardo do Campo e da análise do papel dos atores em sua implementação. O artigo conclui que a atuação discricionária e politicamente orientada da equipe envolvida na implementação foi fundamental para atender às diretrizes nacionais.
A participação social e o conflito distributivo na planificação e orçamentação públicas: o caso do município de São Paulo
Authors: Peres Ursula Dias , Mattos Bruna Barcellos
Published: January 2018

O presente estudo objetiva a análise sobre o processo de governança orçamentária pública, tendo como caso o Ciclo Participativo de Planejamento e Orçamento (CPPO), iniciado pela Prefeitura de São Paulo no ano de 2013. Tal experiência representou uma inovadora forma de construção participativa do orçamento, envolvendo cidadãs e cidadãos, bem como as distintas áreas temáticas de políticas públicas da cidade. A despeito de representar uma janela de oportunidade para a construção participativa do orçamento público, argumenta-se que esta não teria sido suficiente como arena de equalização do conflito distributivo em torno dos recursos, em virtude, sobretudo, da construção histórica das áreas de políticas públicas no Brasil, caracterizada pela verticalização e setorização.
Contornos da agenda sustentável – Cooperação rumo ao desenvolvimento: Análise da gestão socioambiental do Superior Tribunal de Justiça
Authors: Oliveira Luciana
Published: January 2018

O presente estudo leva ao debate o desenvolvimento sustentável e as suas conquistas. Será analisado “o que é o desenvolvimento?” e as diferentes noções sobre este tema, desde a desnecessidade de desenvolvimento econômico até o desenvolvimento sustentável. Sob o argumento da sustentabilidade, serão evidenciadas as conquistas internacionais em respeito ao meio ambiente e aos direitos humanos, tais como o desenvolvimento do Programa das Nações Unidas para o Desenvolvimento (PNUD) e acordos como a ECO-93, Agenda 21, Rio+20 e Acordo de Paris. Por fim, será analisado um caso concreto, demonstrando a implementação interna dos padrões de sustentabilidade internacionais. Por meio do programa A3P da administração pública, o Ministério do Meio Ambiente estabeleceu uma Agenda Sustentável de adesão voluntária, a qual foi aderida pelo Superior Tribunal de Justiça por meio da implementação da gestão socioambiental. Seus objetivos, metas e planos de ação demonstram a real possibilidade de implementar políticas públicas eficientes, em consonância com preceitos internacionais.
As estratégias de inserção do intelectual luso-brasileiro José Augusto Correia Varella no teatro carioca
Authors: Ribeiro Robertha Pedroso Triches
Published: January 2018

Este trabalho busca apresentar a trajetória do imigrante português José Augusto Correia Varella (1892-1953) no teatro carioca, apontando para o seu não enquadramento nas imagens já consagradas pela historiografia. Sua inserção na cidade se deu por meio do campo artístico-cultural, através de práticas como o teatro e a imprensa que lhe possibilitaram os meios de sobrevivência na capital. Para tal, uma das estratégias cotidianas utilizadas por Correia Varella foi o reforço de sua identidade luso-brasileira. Sua trajetória mostra, portanto, que ser imigrante no Rio de Janeiro, nas primeiras décadas do século XX, comportava uma série de possibilidades que estão muito além dos estereótipos fixados.
Os imigrantes libaneses e as redes étnico-comerciais em Fortaleza-Ce no início do século XX
Authors: Franklin Ruben Maciel
Published: January 2018

Resumo: O artigo expõe como os imigrantes libaneses adentraram as redes comerciais da cidade Fortaleza-CE no início do século XX. Através de registros das Juntas Comerciais, as quais continham matrículas de novos negociantes na praça mercantil, bem como da análise dos almanaques e de processos criminais, buscamos mostrar os tipos de articulações possíveis experimentados pelo grupo étnico na medida em que foram se apropriando de um ramo específico de comércio: fazendas e miudezas. Nesse ínterim, exploramos as maneiras pelas quais o crescimento da rede comercial da cidade, nesse período, favoreceu a inclusão de imigrantes mais empobrecidos e, em alguns casos, permitiu que os mesmos obtivessem vantagens e êxito socioeconômico através de transações comerciais realizadas na e pela própria etnia.
Reforma urbana no Estado Novo: a gestão de Henrique Dodsworth na cidade do Rio de Janeiro (1937-1945)
Authors: Silva Pedro Sousa da
Published: January 2018

Ao longo dos oito anos de Estado Novo, o Rio de Janeiro passou por um processo de grandes transformações urbanísticas acompanhado de uma reorganização da máquina administrativa. Este artigo examinará as principais transformações ocorridas na Secretaria Geral de Viação e Obras, a elaboração e a execução dos principais empreendimentos do plano de obras públicas da municipalidade.
Expatriados, imigrantes e refugiados no Brasil: trajetórias e estratégias de integração econômica e social
Authors: Ruediger Marco Aurélio , Da Luz Margareth , MacDowell Couto Maria Isabel , Fernandes Janaina de Mendonça , De Oliveira Wagner Faria , Barbosa Bárbara Barros , Rotenberg Marcelo
Published: January 2018

No início dos anos 2010, o Brasil passou a receber dois novos fluxos de imigrantes - nacionais dos países do Mercosul e refugiados, especialmente haitianos -, criando um tipo de hierarquia distinguindo entre imigrantes desejáveis e indesejáveis, com acesso diferenciado a recursos legais, sociais e culturais para sua integração na sociedade. Esse novo tipo de imigração, em oposição ao fluxo de origem europeia, sofre preconceito da sociedade, dificultando sua integração social e econômica. Com base em pesquisas qualitativas realizadas com imigrantes, este trabalho pretende discutir de forma comparativa os obstáculos e estratégias de inserção econômica e social utilizadas por três categorias de migrantes - expatriados, imigrantes e refugiados - para se integrar à sociedade brasileira e lidar com mecanismos de controle de migração e restrições no Brasil. Com base nos resultados, é possível gerar insumos para o aperfeiçoamento da política migratória brasileira.
BVDFree England 1 year on
Authors: Armstrong Derek , Reeves Aaron , Kane Eleanor , Gunn George
Published: January 2018

The BVDFree Scheme, the national voluntary programme for the elimination of BVD from cattle herds in England, was launched on July 1, 2016. Cattle keepers can join BVDFree online (bvdfree.org.uk) or by completing a BVDFree registration form. Over 1000 farmers registered with BVDFree in the first year of operation. Laboratories designated by BVDFree upload the results of testing for BVD virus and for BVD antibodies to the BVDFree database. 40 220 unique records pertaining to tests for BVD were uploaded to the database in the first year of operation. Of the 32 909 samples from individual animals tested for presence of BVD virus, 180 (0.55%) were positive and 20 (0.06%) were inconclusive. Of 2853 samples from individual animals tested for presence of antibodies to BVD virus, 286 (10%) were positive. In 2018 the BVDFree Scheme will introduce a process for assigning a BVDFree herd status. The backing of veterinary surgeons and veterinary practices and all organisations which have signed the BVD Statement of Intent for BVDFree is key to improving engagement with the BVDFree Scheme and achieving the aim of the Scheme which is to deliver the next generation of cattle free of BVD to the next generation of farmers.
CattleReview
Authors: Barrett David C
Published: January 2018

Introduction:

This edition of Cattle Review considers papers on the potential success of tuberculosis vaccination in badgers in Ireland, the detection of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Mycoplasma bovis and the development of a future Fasciola hepatica vaccine.