bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pathways for the Improvement of Construction Productivity: A Perspective on the Adoption of Advanced Techniques
Authors: Ghasemi Poor Sabet Pejman , Chong Heap-Yih
Published: February 2020

Reinventing construction is the key to improving productivity. This reinvention refers to not only inventing advanced materials and equipment but also developing new operating systems for construction projects. Inadequate application of advanced techniques impedes the operating system. Furthermore, the capabilities of advanced techniques may not cover all the areas required to meet the expected productivity level. The implications of these advanced techniques need to be reinforced by a range of productive fundamentals that remain unclarified. Further, the pathways through which these fundamentals can be aligned with the implementation of advanced techniques remain under‐researched. Hence, the objectives of this research are as follows: (1) to clarify how the selected and common advanced techniques applied in this paper influence construction productivity; (2) to determine the range of productivity fundamentals required to reinforce the implementation of the advanced techniques necessary to fulfil productivity expectations; and (3) to conceptualise the integration of these productivity fundamentals with the application of advanced techniques. A scoping review of 128 articles was used to identify which fundamentals can contribute to achieving performance targets once practising these new advanced techniques. The findings reveal a comprehensive range of productivity fundamentals that are able to reinforce new advanced techniques through different pathways of their applications.
A Quality Control Method Based on an Improved Kernel Regression Algorithm for Surface Air Temperature Observations
Authors: Ye Xiaoling , Kan Yajin , Xiong Xiong , Zhang Yingchao , Chen Xin
Published: February 2020

An improved kernel regression (IKR) method based on an adaptive algorithm and particle swarm optimization is proposed. Considering the limitations of current quality control methods in different regions and on multiple time scales, the kernel regression algorithm is applied to the quality control of surface air temperature observations. Observations of 12 reference stations in Jiangsu from 1961 to 2008 and of 14 regions in China from 2010 to 2014 were selected. The analysis of surface air temperature observations was performed in terms of the mean absolute error (MAE), root mean square error (RMSE), consistency indicator (IOA), and Nash–Sutcliffe model efficiency coefficient (NSC). The results indicate that compared with the traditional IDW and SRT methods, the IKR method has a high error detection rate. Furthermore, the IKR method achieves better predictions and fitting in the single-station and multistation regression experiments in Jiangsu and in the national multistation regression prediction experiment.
A Curious Case of Pseudothrombocytopenia due to In Vitro Agglutination
Authors: Zhong Le , Chadha Juskaran , Ameri Ali
Published: February 2020

Pseudothrombocytopenia (PTCP) is a laboratory phenomenon that can occur in hospitalized patients, with approximately 0.1 to 0.2% due to ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (ETDA). The EDTA-dependent mechanism of PTCP occurs due to a conformational change of platelet surface glycoprotein IIb/IIIa (GPIIb/IIIa) caused by EDTA, which allows natural IgM or IgG auto-antibodies to bind to GPIIb/IIIa, leading to platelet agglutination. In most cases, PTCP resolves when a repeat blood sample is drawn in collection tubes containing either citrate or heparin. Here, we report a case of a 23-year-old female presenting with symptoms of gastroenteritis. She exhibited PTCP with blood draws obtained in not only collection tubes containing ETDA, but also with collection tubes containing heparin and citrate, which is highly unusual. The lack of resolution of platelet clumping in collection tubes containing either heparin or citrate suggests that heparin or citrate may also cause conformational changes to platelet surface glycoproteins in a similar mechanism as that of EDTA that allows binding of certain auto-antibodies.
Strain Rate Effect on Acoustic Emission Characteristics and Energy Mechanisms of Karst Limestone under Uniaxial Compression
Authors: Wang Qingsong , Chen Jianxun , Guo Jiaqi , Luo Yanbin , Li Yao , Wang Hongyu , Liu Qin
Published: February 2020

In this paper, the strain rate effect on mechanical properties, failure modes, acoustic emission (AE) characteristics, and energy mechanism of the karst limestone was analyzed based on uniaxial compression tests with different strain rates (5 × 10−6–5 × 10−4/s). The results showed that the peak strength increased linearly and peak strain increased quadratically with the logarithm value of the strain rate. Moreover, the strain rate effect on elastic modulus was not significant. Under low strain rates, the rock was damaged seriously, AE signals appeared continuously, and the cumulative number of AE signals was high. Under high strain rates, the total quantity of the macroscopic cracks decreased, but the crack length extended with better coalescence. The AE peak significantly increased under high strain rates, while the cumulative AE activity significantly reduced. The energy evolution of the karst limestone failure process had significant stage characteristics, and the strain energy ratio presented an S‐shape. The maximum value of the elastic strain energy at peak stress showed a linear relationship with the logarithm value of the strain rate.
Elastic-Impedance-Based Fluid/Porosity Term and Fracture Weaknesses Inversion in Transversely Isotropic Media with a Tilted Axis of Symmetry
Authors: Pan Xinpeng , Li Lin , Zhang Guangzhi , Cui Yian
Published: February 2020

The rock containing a set of tilted fractures is equivalent to a transversely isotropic (TTI) medium with a tilted axis of symmetry. To implement fluid identification and tilted fracture detection, we propose an inversion approach of utilizing seismic data to simultaneously estimate parameters that are sensitive to fluids and tilted fractures. We first derive a PP-wave reflection coefficient and elastic impedance (EI) in terms of the dip angle, fluid/porosity term, shear modulus, density, and fracture weaknesses, and we present numerical examples to demonstrate how the PP-wave reflection coefficient and EI vary with the dip angle. Based on the information of dip angle of fractures provided by geologic and well data, we propose a two-step inversion approach of utilizing azimuthal seismic data to estimate unknown parameters involving the fluid/porosity term and fracture weaknesses: (1) the constrained sparse spike inversion (CSSI) for azimuthally anisotropic EI data and (2) the estimation of unknown parameters with the low-frequency constrained regularization term. Synthetic and real data demonstrate that fluid and fracture parameters are reasonably estimated, which may help fluid identification and fracture characterization.
Evolutionary Game Model of Stock Price Synchronicity from Investor Behavior
Authors: Dong Yue , Zhang Yuhao , Pan Jinnan , Chen Tingqiang
Published: February 2020

Institutional and individual investors are the two important players in the stock market. Together, they determine the price of the stock market. In this paper, an evolutionary game model that contains the two groups of players is proposed to analyze the stock price synchronicity considering the impacts of investors’ decisions on stock investment. Factors affecting investors’ decisions include the potential revenue or loss, the probability of gain or loss, and the cost of corresponding behavior. The proposed game model is analyzed by replicator dynamics equations and simulation of the evolutionary equilibrium strategy under different circumstances. The analysis shows that the operating cost of institutional investors, the cost of information collection before trading, and the expected loss that may be punished by regulators are the key factors that affect the evolutionary game system between institutional investors and individual investors. In addition, reducing the speculation in the market and increasing the information access of investors through the serious operation mode of institutional investors and the strengthening of the market information disclosure mechanism are beneficial to alleviate price synchronicity in stock market.
Feature Selection Using Genetic Algorithms for the Generation of a Recognition and Classification of Children Activities Model Using Environmental Sound
Authors: García-Dominguez Antonio , Galván-Tejada Carlos E. , Zanella-Calzada Laura A. , Gamboa-Rosales Hamurabi , Galván-Tejada Jorge I. , Celaya-Padilla José M. , Luna-García Huizilopoztli , Magallanes-Quintanar Rafael
Published: February 2020

In the area of recognition and classification of children activities, numerous works have been proposed that make use of different data sources. In most of them, sensors embedded in children’s garments are used. In this work, the use of environmental sound data is proposed to generate a recognition and classification of children activities model through automatic learning techniques, optimized for application on mobile devices. Initially, the use of a genetic algorithm for a feature selection is presented, reducing the original size of the dataset used, an important aspect when working with the limited resources of a mobile device. For the evaluation of this process, five different classification methods are applied, k-nearest neighbor (k-NN), nearest centroid (NC), artificial neural networks (ANNs), random forest (RF), and recursive partitioning trees (Rpart). Finally, a comparison of the models obtained, based on the accuracy, is performed, in order to identify the classification method that presents the best performance in the development of a model that allows the identification of children activity based on audio signals. According to the results, the best performance is presented by the five-feature model developed through RF, obtaining an accuracy of 0.92, which allows to conclude that it is possible to automatically classify children activity based on a reduced set of features with significant accuracy.
Memory Buttons in Combination with Mobile Application-Induced Objective and Subjective Effects in Patients with Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Joergensen Kristina M. , Vestergaard Christian , Joergensen Morten S. , Eiken Aleksander , Malmstedt-Miller Martin , Schultz Anders N. Ø. , Deleuran Mette , Zibert John R.
Published: February 2020

Background. Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic skin condition where nonadherence often results in lack of disease control. Objective. We wanted to determine whether the combination of an electronic memory button and a supportive application (app) would affect the Quality of Life and subjective and objective severity measures among AD patients over one month following the patient’s normal schedules of treatment. Methods. A randomized, investigator-blinded, prospective observational feasibility study for one month where patients diagnosed with AD were randomized based on POEM severity score and divided into 3 groups. The 3 groups were (1) the control group with two consultations, (2) in addition to group 1, patients also received electronic memory buttons to click every time they used their topical products, and (3) in addition to group 2, patients also received an app to track their treatment schedules. At both consultations, patients were evaluated using SCORAD, EASI, POEM, and DLQI. Results. 96 patients were enrolled and randomized, of which 83 patients completed the study. EASI and SCORAD scores were lower in all groups at 2nd consultation (p<0.05); however, these were highly significant for group 3 (p<0.005), and for EASI between groups 2 and 3 (p<0.05). The POEM score decreased significantly in group 3 (p=0.024), and no difference was found in DLQI between visits. Conclusion. A reduction in severity following objective assessments of the AD was observed for all groups and was highly significant for patients offered a memory button and the corresponding app. Furthermore, patients reported a significant subjective beneficial effect if they used the memory button and app. This indicates that digital solutions may have a benefit in clinical practice and may reduce nonadherence and increase the wellbeing of the patients.
Network Pharmacology‐Based Investigation of the System‐Level Molecular Mechanisms of the Hematopoietic Activity of Samul‐Tang, a Traditional Korean Herbal Formula
Authors: Lee Ho-Sung , Lee In-Hee , Park Sang-In , Lee Dae-Yeon
Published: February 2020

Hematopoiesis is a dynamic process of the continuous production of diverse blood cell types to meet the body’s physiological demands and involves complex regulation of multiple cellular mechanisms in hematopoietic stem cells, including proliferation, self‐renewal, differentiation, and apoptosis. Disruption of the hematopoietic system is known to cause various hematological disorders such as myelosuppression. There is growing evidence on the beneficial effects of herbal medicines on hematopoiesis; however, their mechanism of action remains unclear. In this study, we conducted a network pharmacological‐based investigation of the system‐level mechanisms underlying the hematopoietic activity of Samul‐tang, which is an herbal formula consisting of four herbal medicines, including Angelicae Gigantis Radix, Rehmanniae Radix Preparata, Paeoniae Radix Alba, and Cnidii Rhizoma. In silico analysis of the absorption‐distribution‐metabolism‐excretion model identified 16 active phytochemical compounds contained in Samul‐tang that may target 158 genes/proteins associated with myelosuppression to exert pharmacological effects. Functional enrichment analysis suggested that the targets of Samul‐tang were significantly enriched in multiple pathways closely related to the hematopoiesis and myelosuppression development, including the PI3K‐Akt, MAPK, IL‐17, TNF, FoxO, HIF‐1, NF‐kappa B, and p53 signaling pathways. Our study provides novel evidence regarding the system‐level mechanisms underlying the hematopoiesis‐promoting effect of herbal medicines for hematological disorder treatment.
Quo Vadis PCA? A Review on Current Concepts, Economic Considerations, Patient-Related Aspects, and Future Development with respect to Patient-Controlled Analgesia
Authors: Nardi-Hiebl S. , Eberhart L. H. J. , Gehling M. , Koch T. , Schlesinger T. , Kranke P.
Published: February 2020

This review assesses four interrelating aspects of patient-controlled analgesia (PCA), a long-standing and still widely used concept for postoperative pain management. Over the years, anaesthesiologists and patients have appreciated the benefits of PCA alike. The market has seen new technologies leveraging noninvasive routes of administration and, thus, further increasing patient and staff satisfaction as well as promoting safety aspects. Pharmaceutical research focuses on the reduction or avoidance of opioids, side effects, and adverse events although influence of these aspects appears to be minor. The importance of education is still eminent, and new educational formats are tested to train healthcare professionals and patients likewise. New PCA technology can support the implementation of efficient processes to reduce workload and human errors; however, these new products come with a cost, which is not necessarily reflected through beneficial budget impact or significant improvements in patient outcome. Although first steps have been taken to better recognize the importance of postoperative pain management through the introduction of value-based reimbursement, in most western countries, PCA is not specifically compensated. PCA is still an effective and valued technique for postoperative pain management. Although there is identifiable potential for future developments in various aspects, this potential has not materialized in new products.
Cholangiolytic Changes in Statin-Induced Liver Injury
Authors: Menon Preethi Dileep , Singh Tamneet , Hubbard Hopethe , Hackman Sarah , Sharkey Francis E.
Published: February 2020

Atorvastatin is a commonly used oral cholesterol-lowering agent. Side effects associated with statin therapy include arthralgia, myalgia, dyspepsia, weakness, and headache. Prospective and retrospective studies of drug-induced liver injury have identified statin-induced hepatotoxicity, with atorvastatin being the most commonly cited. Associated liver function test elevations have varied from hepatocellular to cholestatic/mixed pattern. We report a case of a 58-year-old woman that illustrates unusual histologic findings associated with a mixed pattern of statin-induced liver injury. While being treated with atorvastatin, the patient exhibited repeated bouts of abdominal pain over a year associated with biliary tree dilation, variably attributed to postcholecystectomy dilation and stenosis of the ampulla of Vater. Following sphincterotomy, the patient’s bilirubin normalized but the other liver function tests remained elevated. Liver biopsy revealed portal and lobular inflammation with cholangiolysis. The patient’s liver function tests normalized following cessation of atorvastatin therapy.
Safety of Levodopa-Carbidopa Intestinal Gel Treatment in Patients with Advanced Parkinson’s Disease Receiving ≥2000 mg Daily Dose of Levodopa
Authors: Zadikoff Cindy , Poewe Werner , Boyd James T. , Bergmann Lars , Ijacu Horia , Kukreja Pavnit , Robieson Weining Z. , Benesh Janet , Antonini Angelo
Published: February 2020

Background. Levodopa-carbidopa intestinal gel (LCIG) provides continuous levodopa administration and clinical benefits to patients with advanced Parkinson’s disease (PD). This report evaluates long-term safety and efficacy of high-dose LCIG in PD patients. Methods. Data were collected from several prospective, phase III clinical studies and an observational registry. The phase III program (N = 412) included four multicenter studies: a 12-week, randomized, double-blind study and three open-label studies extending ≥12 months. GLORIA (N = 375) was a 24-month, multicountry, observational registry. LCIG safety (adverse effects (AEs)/adverse drug reactions (ADRs)) and efficacy (modified Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) part IV item 32 and 39 scores for “On” time with dyskinesia and “Off” time) were assessed in patients who received ≥2000 mg/day vs <2000 mg/day LCIG. Results. A total of 72 of 412 (17.5%) patients required dosages ≥2000 mg/day LCIG in the phase III program and 47 of 375 (12.5%) patients in GLORIA. Baseline demographics and disease severity were similar between dosage groups with more men in the high-dosage group. Compared with the <2000 mg/day dosage group, patients requiring ≥2000 mg/day LCIG had higher rates of AEs/ADRs including polyneuropathy; improvements in “Off” time and discontinuations due to AEs were similar between dosage groups and lower for discontinuations due to ADRs reported in GLORIA. Conclusions. Patients who require ≥2000 mg/day LCIG exhibited a safety profile comparable to the established safety/tolerability of LCIG with similar clinical improvements. Higher AEs were noted but within what is accepted for LCIG. Continuous administration of LCIG is beneficial to advanced PD patients who require very high doses of levodopa.
Adipocyte-Induced FABP4 Expression in Ovarian Cancer Cells Promotes Metastasis and Mediates Carboplatin Resistance
Authors: Mukherjee Abir , Chiang Chun-Yi , Daifotis Helen A. , Nieman Kristin M. , Fahrmann Johannes F. , Lastra Ricardo R. , Romero Iris L. , Fiehn Oliver , Lengyel Ernst
Published: February 2020

Adipocytes are critical for ovarian cancer cells to home to the omentum, but the metabolic changes initiated by this interaction are unknown. To this end, we carried out unbiased mass spectrometry–based metabolomic and proteomic profiling of cancer cells cocultured with primary human omental adipocytes. Cancer cells underwent significant proteo-metabolomic alteration(s), typified by changes in the lipidome with corresponding upregulation of lipid metabolism proteins. FABP4, a lipid chaperone protein, was identified as the critical regulator of lipid responses in ovarian cancer cells cocultured with adipocytes. Subsequently, knockdown of FABP4 resulted in increased 5-hydroxymethylcytosine levels in the DNA, downregulation of gene signatures associated with ovarian cancer metastasis, and reduced clonogenic cancer cell survival. In addition, clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-mediated knockout of FABP4 in high-grade serous ovarian cancer cells reduced metastatic tumor burden in mice. Consequently, a small-molecule inhibitor of FABP4 (BMS309403) not only significantly reduced tumor burden in a syngeneic orthotopic mouse model but also increased the sensitivity of cancer cells toward carboplatin both in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, these results show that targeting FABP4 in ovarian cancer cells can inhibit their ability to adapt and colonize lipid-rich tumor microenvironments, providing an opportunity for specific metabolic targeting of ovarian cancer metastasis.

Significance:

Ovarian cancer metastatic progression can be restricted by targeting a critical regulator of lipid responses, FABP4.
5-Azacitidine Induces NOXA to Prime AML Cells for Venetoclax-Mediated Apoptosis
Authors: Jin Sha , Cojocari Dan , Purkal Julie J. , Popovic Relja , Talaty Nari N. , Xiao Yu , Solomon Larry R. , Boghaert Erwin R. , Leverson Joel D. , Phillips Darren C.
Published: February 2020

Purpose:

Patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) frequently do not respond to conventional therapies. Leukemic cell survival and treatment resistance have been attributed to the overexpression of B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL-2) and aberrant DNA hypermethylation. In a phase Ib study in elderly patients with AML, combining the BCL-2 selective inhibitor venetoclax with hypomethylating agents 5-azacitidine (5-Aza) or decitabine resulted in 67% overall response rate; however, the underlying mechanism for this activity is unknown.

Experimental Design:

We studied the consequences of combining two therapeutic agents, venetoclax and 5-Aza, in AML preclinical models and primary patient samples. We measured expression changes in the integrated stress response (ISR) and the BCL-2 family by Western blot and qPCR. Subsequently, we engineered PMAIP1 (NOXA)- and BBC3 (PUMA)-deficient AML cell lines using CRISPR-Cas9 methods to understand their respective roles in driving the venetoclax/5-Aza combinatorial activity.

Results:

In this study, we demonstrate that venetoclax and 5-Aza act synergistically to kill AML cells in vitro and display combinatorial antitumor activity in vivo. We uncover a novel nonepigenetic mechanism for 5-Aza–induced apoptosis in AML cells through transcriptional induction of the proapoptotic BH3-only protein NOXA. This induction occurred within hours of treatment and was mediated by the ISR pathway. NOXA was detected in complex with antiapoptotic proteins, suggesting that 5-Aza may be “priming” the AML cells for venetoclax-induced apoptosis. PMAIP1 knockout confirmed its major role in driving venetoclax and 5-Aza synergy.

Conclusions:

These data provide a novel nonepigenetic mechanism of action for 5-Aza and its combinatorial activity with venetoclax through the ISR-mediated induction of PMAIP1.
A Phase II Trial of 5-Day Neoadjuvant Radiotherapy for Patients with High-Risk Primary Soft Tissue Sarcoma
Authors: Kalbasi Anusha , Kamrava Mitchell , Chu Fang-I , Telesca Donatello , Van Dams Ritchell , Yang Yingli , Ruan Dan , Nelson Scott D. , Dry Sarah M. , Hernandez Jackie , Chmielowski Bartosz , Singh Arun S. , Bukata Susan V. , Bernthal Nicholas M. , Steinberg Michael L. , Weidhaas Joanne B. , Eilber Fritz C.
Published: February 2020

Purpose:

In a single-institution phase II study, we evaluated the safety of a 5-day dose-equivalent neoadjuvant radiotherapy (RT) regimen for high-risk primary soft tissue sarcoma.

Patients and Methods:

Patients received neoadjuvant RT alone (30 Gy in five fractions) to the primary tumor with standard margins. The primary endpoint was grade ≥2 late-radiation toxicity. Major wound complications, local recurrences, and distant metastases were also examined. In exploratory analysis, we evaluated germline biomarkers for wound toxicity and the effects of the study on treatment utilization.

Results:

Over 2 years, 52 patients were enrolled with median follow-up of 29 months. Seven of 44 evaluable patients (16%) developed grade ≥2 late toxicity. Major wound complications occurred in 16 of 50 patients (32%); a signature defined by 19 germline SNPs in miRNA-binding sites of immune and DNA damage response genes, in addition to lower extremity tumor location, demonstrated strong predictive performance for major wound complications. Compared with the preceding 2-year period, the number of patients treated with neoadjuvant RT alone at our institution increased 3-fold, with a concomitant increase in the catchment area.

Conclusions:

A shorter 5-day neoadjuvant RT regimen results in favorable rates of wound complications and grade ≥2 toxicity after 2-year follow-up. Five-day RT significantly increased utilization of neoadjuvant RT at our high-volume sarcoma center. With further validation, a putative germline biomarker for wound complications may guide safer RT utilization.
Adenocarcinoma of the Lung Mimicking Miliary Tuberculosis
Authors: Khan Dawlat , Danjuma Mohammed , Saddique Muhammad Umar , Murshed Khaled Abdelfattah Hasan , Yassin Mohamed A.
Published: February 2020

Miliary shadows on chest imaging have wide differential diagnoses. The most common etiology is infectious, such as miliary tuberculosis (TB) and histoplasmosis, but miliary shadows can be the presentation of sarcoidosis, pneumoconiosis, and secondary metastasis to the lungs from primary cancers of the thyroid, kidney, and trophoblasts as well as sarcomas. Here we present the case of a 35-year-old Indian male who presented with a 2-month history of dry cough and shortness of breath. Chest imaging showed diffuse bilateral miliary nodules. The initial impression was that of miliary pulmonary TB. Subsequent bronchoscopy with a transbronchial biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of pulmonary mucinous adenocarcinoma with brain metastasis, which is a rare and unusual presentation of primary lung cancer. The tumor was positive for ALK5A4 and PD-L1, and the patient was started on tyrosine kinase inhibitor immunotherapy, with a favorable response.
The Association between Increased Body Mass Index and Overuse Injuries in Israel Defense Forces Conscripts
Authors: Hollander Netanel A. , Finestone Aharon S. , Yofe Victoria , Bader Tarif , Magnezi Racheli
Published: February 2020

Objectives: To examine the association between body mass index (BMI) and overuse injuries (OI) among Israel Defense Forces soldiers, in different corps. Methods: Conscripts between 2003 and 2012, infantry, armored corps and intelligence corps (controls) were studied. OI data were taken from computerized patient records. The BMI was classified as underweight, low-normal (18.5–21.9), high-normal (22–24.9), overweight and obese. Multivariate analysis was performed using logistic regression. Results: There were 73,640 soldiers: 42,506 infantry, 20,781 armor and 10,353 intelligence. OI rates were 52.2, 51.6 and 27%, respectively. OI rate was directly proportional to BMI in all groups (relative risk compared to low-normal, underweight: 0.97, high-normal: 1.05, overweight: 1.11, obese: 1.19, p < 0.05 for all), increased height and younger age. By logistic regression, OI were significantly associated with training group, higher BMI, increased height, younger age, lower education, lower socioeconomic status and lower psychotechnical grading. Throughout the BMI range, each additional unit of BMI was associated with a 2% OI increase. Conclusions: Higher BMI was associated with a higher rate of OI in all groups. Therefore there is no point in differentially assigning recruits based on BMI.
Fishes from the rio da Dona, a threatened environment in the Recôncavo Sul basin, Bahia, Brazil
Authors: Vita George , Ferreira Marco Tulio Oliveira , Tavechio Washington , Guidelli Gislaine
Published: February 2020

The rio da Dona is an important water body in the Recôncavo Sul basin used as a water supply for the neighboring towns and for agriculture, recreation and subsistence fishing. The knowledge about the ichthyofauna of this river is scarce. In this paper, an inventory of the fish fauna from rio da Dona basin and an identification key for the species recorded are presented. Additionally, taxonomic and conservationist issues are discussed. The specimens were collected in different sites along the upper, middle and lower courses of the rio da Dona. The fishes were anesthetized, fixed in formalin, conserved in ethanol, and identified. In addition to the material collected, specimens previously deposited in the ichthyological collection of the Museu de História Natural da Bahia were also analyzed. Twenty species, distributed into 16 genera, ten families, and four orders were recorded. One of these species, Aspidoras kiriri, is endemic to the rio da Dona. Four species, Cichla pinima, Coptodon rendalli, Poecilia reticulata and Serrasalmus brandtii, have been introduced into the river. Higher richness of native species has been recorded in the upper course of the rio da Dona, while in the middle and lower parts non-native species were also representative. Along the river, a series of anthropic impacts were observed, such as deforestation of native forest including the riparian vegetation, silting and dams, which can probably compromised the resident ichthyofauna.
Prevalência do consumo de drogas lícitas e ilícitas por estudantes universitários
Authors: De Araujo Claudineia Matos , Vieira Carla Xavier , Mascarenhas Claudio Henrique Meira
Published: February 2020

Avaliar o consumo de drogas lícitas e ilícitas por estudantes universitários e investigar associação com variáveis sociodemográficas. Método: trata-se de um estudo transversal, com 429 estudantes de 18-24 anos,responderam ao questionário sociodemográfico e o Teste de Triagem do Envolvimento com Álcool, Tabaco e outras Substâncias. Utilizou-se estatística descritiva, testes do qui-quadrado de Fischer. Resultados: as drogas mais utilizadas foram álcool, derivados do tabaco e hipnóticos/sedativos. O sexo masculino teve associação com maior uso de drogas como tabaco e maconha e consumo sugestivo de abuso para álcool. Conclusão: conclui-se que o álcool prevalece como substância mais utilizada, pertencer ao sexo masculino e não possuir religião, morar longe dos pais/parentes são fatores que podem influenciar no uso/abuso de drogas lícitas e ilícitas.
Interação e satisfação de trabalhadores da base fabril no Facebook
Authors: Santos Maria Lúcia Salgueiro dos , Quadros Claudia Irene de
Published: February 2020

Este estudo investiga relações entre interações digitais na comunicação interna informal e satisfação de empregados da base industrial brasileira de uma fábrica de eletrodomésticos multinacional. O Facebook é analisado por ser um dos dispositivos mais utilizados pelos profissionais em tela. Além da observação silenciosa da página criada de forma independente por esses empregados, realizamos análise de conteúdo, análise documental da organização e entrevistas. Os fundamentos da etnografia destacaram o senso de colaboração, de identidade e de pertencimento dos funcionários.
Transparência ativa em organizações governamentais de sustentabilidade ambiental
Authors: Rothberg Danilo
Published: February 2020

São pouco conhecidas as características dos diferentes patamares de desempenho da comunicação pública produzida por assessorias de organizações governamentais. Este texto busca contribuir para preencher tal lacuna, ao descrever e interpretar os resultados de um estudo empírico de análise de conteúdo, que conduzimos com o objetivo de caracterizar a qualidade da comunicação digital produzida pelas assessorias de organizações governamentais ambientais das 27 unidades federativas brasileiras. Os resultados indicam oportunidades de aperfeiçoamento da comunicação e sugerem uma associação positiva entre desenvolvimento humano e transparência ativa, a ser explorada por estudos futuros.
A datificação de um campo de conhecimento
Authors: Santos Márcio Carneiro dos
Published: February 2020

Discute-se o impacto das transformações geradas pelo ecossistema digital dos meios no campo da comunicação, a partir da explosão quantitativa dos emissores, sustentada pela ubiquidade das redes e dispositivos tecnológicos de suporte à produção de conteúdo. Analisam-se, a partir das propostas da design science e da abordagem dos métodos digitais, as possibilidades de expansão epistemológica e metodológica, baseadas nas iniciativas interdisciplinares e na incorporação de novas habilidades na formação de profissionais e pesquisadores, para enfrentar a atual situação de excesso de dados e ferramental pouco adaptado para compreendê-la.
Mapeamento de públicos no ecossistema de inovação
Authors: Gasparindo Leila , Risola Sergio
Published: February 2020

Este artigo tem como objetivo mapear os principais atores do ecossistema de inovação no Brasil e propor diretrizes para que relações públicas atuem no fortalecimento das relações institucionais entre empresas inovadoras e esses stakeholders. Buscou-se propor o uso de uma ferramenta colaborativa no trabalho de mapeamento e de classificação de públicos, que possa contribuir para promover o diálogo, reconhecer e envolver os públicos da organização no seu propósito de inovação e nos programas de inovação aberta.
Comunicação organizacional e as estratégias de invisibilidade e de redução/direcionamento da visibilidade nas mídias sociais
Authors: Silva Diego Wander Santos da , Baldissera Rudimar
Published: February 2020

Nosso objetivo é compreender quais são as estratégias das organizações em situações nas quais predomina o desejo de invisibilidade e de redução/direcionamento da visibilidade nas mídias sociais. As reflexões são feitas à luz do interacionismo simbólico, fundamento epistêmico da pesquisa. Em nível empírico, realizamos entrevistas em profundidade com 17 profissionais que atuam em agências de comunicação digital. O estudo resulta em um mapa de estratégias de invisibilidade e de redução/direcionamento da visibilidade, que indica a profissionalização e uma série de problemáticas diante desses processos e recursos.
Doppler-Derived Arterial Load Indices Better Reflect Left Ventricular Afterload Than Systolic Blood Pressure in Coarctation of Aorta
Authors: Egbe Alexander C. , Reddy Yogesh N.V. , Obokata Masaru , Borlaug Barry A.
Published: February 2020

Background:

Patients with vascular stiffening may display increased arterial afterload that is out of proportion to systolic blood pressure (SBP). Since vascular and endothelial dysfunction develop in patients with coarctation of aorta (COA), we hypothesized that for any SBP, patients with mild COA (COA peak velocity <2 m/s) will have a higher arterial afterload and increased left ventricular mass index (LVMI) compared with controls, and that Doppler-derived arterial load indices would be a better predictor of LVMI compared with SBP alone.

Methods:

We studied 204 COA patients (age 35±12 y) and 204 matched controls. Doppler-derived arterial afterload was assessed using effective arterial elastance index and total arterial compliance index.

Results:

Despite similar SBP, the mild COA group displayed higher arterial afterload as evidenced by a higher elastance index (3.3±0.9 versus 2.9±0.7 mm Hg/mL·m
2
;
P
<0.001) and lower total arterial compliance index (0.8±0.3 versus 1.2±0.5 mL/mm Hg·m
2
;
P
<0.001). This was associated with higher LVMI in COA (109±35 versus 93±32, g/m
2
;
P
<0.001). Compared with SBP (β=0.24 [95% CI, 0.02–0.45]), elastance index (β=20.2 [95% CI, 15.8–44.1]) and total arterial compliance index (β=−32.5 [95% CI, −43.8 to −123.6]) were better predictors of LVMI. Elastance index (but not SBP) was predictive of longitudinal increases in LVMI (
r
=0.43,
P
<0.001).

Conclusions:

COA patients had higher arterial afterload compared with controls with similar SBP. In comparison to SBP, Doppler-derived arterial load indices correlate more strongly with LV hypertrophy. These data suggest that SBP may underestimate LV afterload in this population. This has important clinical implications since titration of antihypertensive therapy is currently based on SBP.
Trends in Hospitalization, Management, and Clinical Outcomes Among Veterans With Critical Limb Ischemia
Authors: Mentias Amgad , Qazi Abdul , McCoy Kimberly , Wallace Robert , Vaughan-Sarrazin Mary , Girotra Saket
Published: February 2020

Background:

Contemporary patterns in management and outcomes of critical limb ischemia among United States veterans are unknown.

Methods:

We used Veterans Health Administration data to identify patients admitted for critical limb ischemia between 2005 and 2014. We examined temporal trends in incidence, management, and outcomes.

Results:

A total of 20 938 veterans with critical limb ischemia were hospitalized between 2005 and 2014. Mean age was 67.8 years. Incidence decreased from 0.3 to 0.24 per 1000 persons from 2005 to 2013,
P
<0.01. During the study period, there was a temporal increase in use of revascularization within 90 days of hospitalization—endovascular (11.2% in 2005 to 18.4% in 2014), surgical (23.8% in 2005 to 26.4% in 2014), and hybrid (6.2% in 2005 to 13.1% in 2014,
P
value for trend <0.01). Statin prescriptions increased from 47.4% in 2005 to 60.9% in 2014 (
P
value for trend <0.01). There was a significant decline in risk-adjusted mortality (11.8% in 2005 to 9.7% in 2014) and major amputation (19.8% in 2005 to 12.9% in 2014;
P
value for trend <0.01 for both) at 90 days. In adjusted analyses, revascularization was associated with a lower risk of mortality (RR, 0.45 [95% CI, 0.41–0.50];
P
<0.001) and major amputation at 90 days (RR, 0.23 [95% CI, 0.21–0.26];
P
<0.001). Nearly half of the patients who underwent amputation did not receive an invasive vascular procedure within the preceding 90 days. There was large site-level variation in the use of revascularization (median rate, 41.7% [interquartile range, 12.5%–53.2%]). Differences in patient case-mix explained only 8% of site-level variation in receipt of revascularization.

Conclusions:

Over the past decade, use of revascularization increased among veterans with critical limb ischemia, which was accompanied by a reduction in mortality and major amputation. However, opportunities to further improve care in this high-risk population still remain.
Targeting Age-Related Pathways in Heart Failure
Authors: Li Haobo , Hastings Margaret H. , Rhee James , Trager Lena E. , Roh Jason D. , Rosenzweig Anthony
Published: February 2020

During aging, deterioration in cardiac structure and function leads to increased susceptibility to heart failure. The need for interventions to combat this age-related cardiac decline is becoming increasingly urgent as the elderly population continues to grow. Our understanding of cardiac aging, and aging in general, is limited. However, recent studies of age-related decline and its prevention through interventions like exercise have revealed novel pathological and cardioprotective pathways. In this review, we summarize recent findings concerning the molecular mechanisms of age-related heart failure and highlight exercise as a valuable experimental platform for the discovery of much-needed novel therapeutic targets in this chronic disease.
Noninvasive Imaging Estimation of Myocardial Iron Repletion Following Administration of Intravenous Iron: The Myocardial‐IRON Trial
Authors: Núñez Julio , Miñana Gema , Cardells Ingrid , Palau Patricia , Llàcer Pau , Fácila Lorenzo , Almenar Luis , López‐Lereu Maria P. , Monmeneu Jose V. , Amiguet Martina , González Jessika , Serrano Alicia , Montagud Vicente , López‐Vilella Raquel , Valero Ernesto , García‐Blas Sergio , Bodí Vicent , de la Espriella‐Juan Rafael , Lupón Josep , Navarro Jorge , Górriz José Luis , Sanchis Juan , Chorro Francisco J. , Comín‐Colet Josep , Bayés‐Genís Antoni , Soler Meritxell , Villaescusa Amparo , Civera Jose , Mollar Anna , del Carmen Moreno Maria , Vidal Veronica
Published: February 2020

Background

Intravenous ferric carboxymaltose (
FCM
) improves symptoms, functional capacity, and quality of life in heart failure and iron deficiency. The mechanisms underlying these effects are not fully understood. The aim of this study was to examine changes in myocardial iron content after
FCM
administration in patients with heart failure and iron deficiency using cardiac magnetic resonance.

Methods and Results

Fifty‐three stable heart failure and iron deficiency patients were randomly assigned 1:1 to receive intravenous
FCM
or placebo in a multicenter, double‐blind study. T2* and T1 mapping cardiac magnetic resonance sequences, noninvasive surrogates of intramyocardial iron, were evaluated before and 7 and 30 days after randomization using linear mixed regression analysis. Results are presented as least‐square means with 95% CI. The primary end point was the change in T2* and T1 mapping at 7 and 30 days. Median age was 73 (65–78) years, with N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide, ferritin, and transferrin saturation medians of 1690 pg/mL (1010–2828), 63 ng/mL (22–114), and 15.7% (11.0–19.2), respectively. Baseline T2* and T1 mapping values did not significantly differ across treatment arms. On day 7, both T2* and T1 mapping (ms) were significantly lower in the
FCM
arm (36.6 [34.6–38.7] versus 40 [38–42.1],
P
=0.025; 1061 [1051–1072] versus 1085 [1074–1095],
P
=0.001, respectively). A similar reduction was found at 30 days for T2* (36.3 [34.1–38.5] versus 41.1 [38.9–43.4],
P
=0.003), but not for T1 mapping (1075 [1065–1085] versus 1079 [1069–1089],
P
=0.577).

Conclusions

In patients with heart failure and iron deficiency,
FCM
administration was associated with changes in the T2* and T1 mapping cardiac magnetic resonance sequences, indicative of myocardial iron repletion.

Clinical Trial Registration

URL
:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier:
NCT
03398681.
The sensitivity of network statistics to incomplete electrode sampling on intracranial EEG
Authors: Conrad Erin C. , Bernabei John M. , Kini Lohith G. , Shah Preya , Mikhail Fadi , Kheder Ammar , Shinohara Russell T. , Davis Kathryn A. , Bassett Danielle S. , Litt Brian
Published: February 2020

Network neuroscience applied to epilepsy holds promise to map pathological networks, localize seizure generators, and inform targeted interventions to control seizures. However, incomplete sampling of the epileptic brain because of sparse placement of intracranial electrodes may affect model results. In this study, we evaluate the sensitivity of several published network measures to incomplete spatial sampling and propose an algorithm using network subsampling to determine confidence in model results. We retrospectively evaluated intracranial EEG data from 28 patients implanted with grid, strip, and depth electrodes during evaluation for epilepsy surgery. We recalculated global and local network metrics after randomly and systematically removing subsets of intracranial EEG electrode contacts. We found that sensitivity to incomplete sampling varied significantly across network metrics. This sensitivity was largely independent of whether seizure onset zone contacts were targeted or spared from removal. We present an algorithm using random subsampling to compute patient-specific confidence intervals for network localizations. Our findings highlight the difference in robustness between commonly used network metrics and provide tools to assess confidence in intracranial network localization. We present these techniques as an important step toward translating personalized network models of seizures into rigorous, quantitative approaches to invasive therapy.
The Curious Case of Rule 165 of the Rules of Procedure and Evidence: The Effect of Control Exercised by the Assembly of States Parties over the International Criminal Court
Authors: Sharma Kritika
Published: February 2020

This article analyses the relationship between the International Criminal Court (icc) and its international judicial governance institution, the Assembly of States Parties (asp). It does this in particular respect to the legislative function of the asp in relation to the Rules of Procedure and Evidence. With this objective, the article focuses on the provisional amendment to Rule 165 of the Rules of Procedure and Evidence by the Court, as well as the asp’s response to this. This article analyses the process through which the asp assesses this provisional amendment and determines whether, in practice, the present legal and institutional framework allows for an overlap of mandates between the asp and icc.
Science Parks and the Attraction of Talents: Activities and Challenges
Authors: Cadorin Eduardo , Klofsten Magnus , Albahari Alberto , Etzkowitz Henry
Published: February 2020

This paper explores activities undertaken by Science Parks to attract talent for their tenants. Despite the importance of accessing talent, there are very few studies focusing on this research area. The data in this investigation comes from seven cases studies on talent attraction activities carried out by three Science Parks in Sweden. We show that the parks conduct many different activities to attract talent including headhunting key personnel for start-ups, organising establishment platforms for foreign companies, and facilitating the exchange of knowledge and talent with higher education institutions. Science Parks house companies of different sizes, ages, and business orientations and therefore, park managers should be sensitive to the real needs of tenant firms when performing talent attraction activities.
Burmeistera quimiensis (Lobelioideae, Campanulaceae): A new species from the Cordillera del Cóndor range in southeast Ecuador

Authors: MASHBURN BROCK , PÉREZ ÁLVARO J. , PERSSON CLAES , ZAPATA NICOLÁS , CEVALLOS DANIELA , MUCHHALA NATHAN
Published: February 2020

A new taxon belonging to the genus Burmeistera (Campanulaceae, Lobelioideae) is described from El Quimi Biological Reserve in Morona Santiago Province, southeast Ecuador. Burmeistera quimiensis is characterized by its red-violet stems and veins, spiral phyllotaxy, bullate, ascending leaves with a revolute margin, puberulous abaxial leaf surface, cupuliform hypanthia, and thick-walled white to red-violet fruits with reflexed pedicels. Photos of the new species are given, as well as a distribution map of known collection localities, and its relationships with other species are discussed.
New species of Ilanga (Gastropoda: Trochoidea: Solariellidae) from the Indo-West Pacific
Authors: VILVENS CLAUDE , WILLIAMS SUZANNE T.
Published: February 2020

In this study we list and figure a total of 22 species assigned to the genus Ilanga Herbert, 1987 that were collected during recent Paris Museum expeditions, of which 16 are new and described here (listed in the order they appear in the text): Ilanga herberti n. sp., I. euryomphalos n. sp., I. polygramma n. sp., I. stephanophora n. sp., I. harrytaylori n. sp., I. eurystoma n. sp., I. oxeia n. sp., I. cosmia n. sp., I. corrineae n. sp., I. comes n. sp., I. dongshaensis n. sp., I. philia n. sp., I. helicoides n. sp., I. lauensis n. sp., I. mesembrine n. sp. and I. boreia n. sp.. These species occur throughout the Indo-West Pacific, extending the known range of this genus beyond the south west Indian Ocean. We also synonymise Microgaza fulgens Dall, 1907 and Microgaza konos Vilvens, 2009 (syn. nov.) (as I. fulgens). New combinations include Ilanga fulgens and I. navakaensis.
Microlaimus capitatus sp. n. and Dichromadora simplex Timm, 1961 (Nematoda, Chromadorea) from the coast of Vietnam
Authors: GAGARIN VLADIMIR G.
Published: February 2020

Two nematode species isolated from sediments of the littoral zone of the South China Sea on the coast of Vietnam are described and illustrated. Microlaimus capitatus sp. n. is closely related to M. affinis Gerlach, 1958 and M. amphidius Kamran et al., 2009, but differs by having a thin, poorly developed pharyngostom, more posterior vulva and presence of terminal setae on the tail. The female of Dichromadora simplex Timm, 1961 is described and illustrated for the first time.